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Play Makers #1
Playing for Keeps
When Erica McCall finally gets her big break in advertising, she knows just which spokesperson to gorgeous football superstar Johnny Spurling. She has followed his career since college and knows he’s perfect for the spot, even though it’s common knowledge his famous family doesn’t do product endorsements, ever. But Erica knows Johnny’s weak spot, and she’s confident she can use it to gain his trust and seal the deal.
Quarterback Johnny Spurling is running out of time. His father’s health is failing, and there’s one last thing he’s asked Johnny to do—settle down and produce a son, before it’s too late. Which means Johnny needs a new kind of girlfriend. No more casual hookups or high-maintenance divas. When his sister-in-law claims to have the perfect candidate, he urges her to set up a postseason blind date.
Then Johnny meets long-haired, long-legged Erica and can’t resist her outrageous proposal—or her. So he decides he’ll do the commercial and have one final, hot-as-hell fling before settling down. They set the ground rules, then proceed to break every one of them as fun turns to the kind of true romance that just doesn’t end with the final touchdown—and with luck, never ends at all.
About the
Kate Donovan is a Niners fan, a wife, a mother, a lawyer, and an author. She has more than twenty books and novels to her credit, publishing in genres including fantasy, historical romance, legal thriller, romantic suspense, and young adult science fiction.
Quarterback Johnny Spurling is running out of time. His father’s health is failing, and there’s one last thing he’s asked Johnny to do—settle down and produce a son, before it’s too late. Which means Johnny needs a new kind of girlfriend. No more casual hookups or high-maintenance divas. When his sister-in-law claims to have the perfect candidate, he urges her to set up a postseason blind date.
Then Johnny meets long-haired, long-legged Erica and can’t resist her outrageous proposal—or her. So he decides he’ll do the commercial and have one final, hot-as-hell fling before settling down. They set the ground rules, then proceed to break every one of them as fun turns to the kind of true romance that just doesn’t end with the final touchdown—and with luck, never ends at all.
About the
Kate Donovan is a Niners fan, a wife, a mother, a lawyer, and an author. She has more than twenty books and novels to her credit, publishing in genres including fantasy, historical romance, legal thriller, romantic suspense, and young adult science fiction.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
February 9, 2017
DNF at 16% - I'm getting worse!
I just found the entire premise of this novel to be so ridiculous I couldn't continue reading. Erica McCall works in advertising, she is part of the 'B' stream of advertising people in her firm. After being sexually harassed (or bullied, I can't recall which) she agrees to drop all charges in return for an opportunity to pitch her idea for their client's Superbowl advertisement. I found her idea to be truly terrible but senior management lapped it up even though it required her to get legendary quarterback Johnny Spurling to advertise beer - two things he doesn't do.
Then Erica turns up at the hotel for her pitch to Johnny Spurling wearing only a raincoat over her underwear, because apparently her suit creases as soon as she puts it on. So she can think enough to send her suit on ahead but not enough to wear, say, yoga pants and a T-shirt to the hotel? Later Erica wants to tell Johnny that they can't be in contact because everyone thinks she got the job by sleeping with him, she can't do it over the phone so she flies to meet him in a hotel room. At that point I DNF'd.
Dreadful.
I just found the entire premise of this novel to be so ridiculous I couldn't continue reading. Erica McCall works in advertising, she is part of the 'B' stream of advertising people in her firm. After being sexually harassed (or bullied, I can't recall which) she agrees to drop all charges in return for an opportunity to pitch her idea for their client's Superbowl advertisement. I found her idea to be truly terrible but senior management lapped it up even though it required her to get legendary quarterback Johnny Spurling to advertise beer - two things he doesn't do.
Then Erica turns up at the hotel for her pitch to Johnny Spurling wearing only a raincoat over her underwear, because apparently her suit creases as soon as she puts it on. So she can think enough to send her suit on ahead but not enough to wear, say, yoga pants and a T-shirt to the hotel? Later Erica wants to tell Johnny that they can't be in contact because everyone thinks she got the job by sleeping with him, she can't do it over the phone so she flies to meet him in a hotel room. At that point I DNF'd.
Dreadful.
January 25, 2015
PLAYING FOR KEEPS is an engaging story about a famous quarterback and a fledging advertising executive. Quarterback, Johnny Spurling is talked into attending an ad campaign even though he has a strict rule of never endorsing products. When Erica makes her presentation, Johnny’s immediately smitten with her and he agrees to do the ad campaign so he can get to know her.
I like Johnny. He’s a sweet guy, although he does have a big ego. He lives and breathes football and right now his sole focus is playing in and winning the super bowl. Although football is all consuming in his life, Johnny still tries to spend time as much time as possible with Erica. I enjoyed Johnny relationship with his teammates and I had some laugh out loud moments when they all get together. They all revere him, whatever he says goes and they refer to him as “the big dog.”
Erica is a huge football fan and excited to be working with Johnny. She is finally achieving her dream of living in New York and working on a high profile account. She doesn’t want anything to interfere with her success.
Johnny and Erica hit it off immediately. They have fun and enjoy a passionate relationship whenever they are together, which isn't often, because they live on opposite sides of the country. They must make some decisions and sacrifices if they want it to continue their relationship. The only thing getting in the way is a promise Johnny made to his family and Erica’s determination to have a career and not a relationship. The story was unrealistic at times, but still a feel good, fun read. This is second book in the Playing for Keeps series and each book is a stand-alone.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
I like Johnny. He’s a sweet guy, although he does have a big ego. He lives and breathes football and right now his sole focus is playing in and winning the super bowl. Although football is all consuming in his life, Johnny still tries to spend time as much time as possible with Erica. I enjoyed Johnny relationship with his teammates and I had some laugh out loud moments when they all get together. They all revere him, whatever he says goes and they refer to him as “the big dog.”
Erica is a huge football fan and excited to be working with Johnny. She is finally achieving her dream of living in New York and working on a high profile account. She doesn’t want anything to interfere with her success.
Johnny and Erica hit it off immediately. They have fun and enjoy a passionate relationship whenever they are together, which isn't often, because they live on opposite sides of the country. They must make some decisions and sacrifices if they want it to continue their relationship. The only thing getting in the way is a promise Johnny made to his family and Erica’s determination to have a career and not a relationship. The story was unrealistic at times, but still a feel good, fun read. This is second book in the Playing for Keeps series and each book is a stand-alone.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
February 21, 2014
I really enjoyed Playing for Keeps by Kate Donovan. It was well written with a mixture of humor, romance, sports and drama to keep you interested and intrigued.
I did have a problem with the first initial meeting of the main characters, Johnny and Erica. He was the backbone of her whole campaign push and was supposed to be this stand-up, honorable guy that she was going to build their whole campaign around (Don’t be a douche) and what does he do at their meeting—backs her into the wall of the elevator, physically capturing her, and while he did not actually touch her, there was indeed implied intent. Then once in the bar and to discuss the campaign, he starts laying it on pretty heavy, always turning the topic around to what she was wearing under the rain coat when she arrived or their imminent relationship, though brief it must be because as soon as the season was over he would end it and marry the school teacher and settle down. I seriously had my doubts about whether or not HE was going to turn out to be a real douche.
Although it all rights itself through out the storyline, which honestly had me want to scream at Erica for some of her choices, the ends justified the means so to speak.
I have not read the first book in this series, Play by Play, but I will definitely be searching that out.
I did have a problem with the first initial meeting of the main characters, Johnny and Erica. He was the backbone of her whole campaign push and was supposed to be this stand-up, honorable guy that she was going to build their whole campaign around (Don’t be a douche) and what does he do at their meeting—backs her into the wall of the elevator, physically capturing her, and while he did not actually touch her, there was indeed implied intent. Then once in the bar and to discuss the campaign, he starts laying it on pretty heavy, always turning the topic around to what she was wearing under the rain coat when she arrived or their imminent relationship, though brief it must be because as soon as the season was over he would end it and marry the school teacher and settle down. I seriously had my doubts about whether or not HE was going to turn out to be a real douche.
Although it all rights itself through out the storyline, which honestly had me want to scream at Erica for some of her choices, the ends justified the means so to speak.
I have not read the first book in this series, Play by Play, but I will definitely be searching that out.
to-be-continued-on-a-later-date
December 7, 2014ARC provided by publishers via NetGalley in exchange of honest review
**Review to come***
**Review to come***
August 10, 2016
I really loved this book. Erica is climbing her way up the ladder of advertising success and navigating all of the twists and turns that come along the way when coworkers start showing jealousy, suspicion after believing her pitch and success for Lager Storm beer come from using her body and accusations to get ahead. But Erica doesn't let this stop her from going after what she is passionate about. And that passion comes in the form of a sexy as sin football QB named Johnny.
Johnny is the ultimate package. Sexy, hardworking, loyal, and passionate. The world and his family believe he lives up to a nickname of "player" that he never really earned. He jumps on board with Erica's ideas on how to show the world just who he really is.
Johnny and Erica have instant chemistry and start a fling during the ad campaign which leads up to what will hopefully be the Super Bowl if the team works hard enough. After the Super Bowl Johnny is supposed to meet his blind date and marry, have kids and live happily ever after. Riiiiiiiggggght. I mean come on! Since when do sexy football players fall for arranged marriages. This was probably the part of the book that annoyed me the most. Erica knows she has no plans to become a stay at home mom whose life revolves around following her boyfriend cross country. She refuses to give up her dreams. But what about when true love is in the equation? Just how will she solve that. Because not solving the puzzle means losing Johnny...
I loved the friendship Erica develops with Johnny's best friends. It is really fun to read about their adventures with Erica and I was laughing out loud at times.
I can't say much more without giving too much away, but this is a fun read. Johnny is almost too sweet and too hot, but overall the book is awesome! I can't wait to read more of Kate Donovan's books!
*** I received this book as an ARC from Beyond The Page Publishing via Netgalley (thanks!) in exchange for an honest review.***
Johnny is the ultimate package. Sexy, hardworking, loyal, and passionate. The world and his family believe he lives up to a nickname of "player" that he never really earned. He jumps on board with Erica's ideas on how to show the world just who he really is.
Johnny and Erica have instant chemistry and start a fling during the ad campaign which leads up to what will hopefully be the Super Bowl if the team works hard enough. After the Super Bowl Johnny is supposed to meet his blind date and marry, have kids and live happily ever after. Riiiiiiiggggght. I mean come on! Since when do sexy football players fall for arranged marriages. This was probably the part of the book that annoyed me the most. Erica knows she has no plans to become a stay at home mom whose life revolves around following her boyfriend cross country. She refuses to give up her dreams. But what about when true love is in the equation? Just how will she solve that. Because not solving the puzzle means losing Johnny...
I loved the friendship Erica develops with Johnny's best friends. It is really fun to read about their adventures with Erica and I was laughing out loud at times.
I can't say much more without giving too much away, but this is a fun read. Johnny is almost too sweet and too hot, but overall the book is awesome! I can't wait to read more of Kate Donovan's books!
*** I received this book as an ARC from Beyond The Page Publishing via Netgalley (thanks!) in exchange for an honest review.***
February 18, 2014
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
I’m not a huge football fan but I enjoy Kate Donovan’s writing and this cover caught by eye and I’m glad it did. I thoroughly enjoyed this crazy, mixed-up, frustrating yet satisfying love story between a NFL quarterback trying to get his team to the Super Bowl and an advertising newcomer trying to make her mark. Playing For Keeps is a complicated story between two people at different places in their lives with an undeniable connection and a whole lot of chemistry.
I’m so impressed with this story Johnny Spurling while a pro football player, has a healthy respect for women. That doesn’t mean he hasn’t enjoyed them, he just treats them well. His father’s latest health scare has him deciding it’s time to settle down and have a son to please his Dad, so he agrees to a blind date after the Super Bowl with his sister in law’s friend but then he meets what he thinks might be a final fling only to realize she could quite possibly be the perfect woman.
As part of a sexual harassment suit settlement Erica McCall is getting to pitch her idea for a beer Super Bowl ad. Her idea of the perfect spokesman, quarterback Johnny Spurling but the Spurling family doesn’t do product endorsements. Erica thinks she has the angle that will appear to Johnny but what she doesn’t expect is an instant spark that seems to ignite both of them.
It was so easy to fall in love with both of these characters and their complicated, sexy, and intriguing relationship. At very different points in their lives and the fact that Johnny is working for her client leads them to decide they really shouldn’t see each other but yet they can’t seem to stay apart. It was as amusing as it was heartbreaking watching their tryst turn into so much more.
The secondary story lines added depth to this already full story and made it even better. Some of the additional characters were so fun to read and at times offered a little bit of comic relief to a relationship filled with angst, heartache, and some drama.
Full of passion, twists, turns, and some good old fashion wooing Playing For Keeps is an incredible addition to this series!
4 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
I’m not a huge football fan but I enjoy Kate Donovan’s writing and this cover caught by eye and I’m glad it did. I thoroughly enjoyed this crazy, mixed-up, frustrating yet satisfying love story between a NFL quarterback trying to get his team to the Super Bowl and an advertising newcomer trying to make her mark. Playing For Keeps is a complicated story between two people at different places in their lives with an undeniable connection and a whole lot of chemistry.
I’m so impressed with this story Johnny Spurling while a pro football player, has a healthy respect for women. That doesn’t mean he hasn’t enjoyed them, he just treats them well. His father’s latest health scare has him deciding it’s time to settle down and have a son to please his Dad, so he agrees to a blind date after the Super Bowl with his sister in law’s friend but then he meets what he thinks might be a final fling only to realize she could quite possibly be the perfect woman.
As part of a sexual harassment suit settlement Erica McCall is getting to pitch her idea for a beer Super Bowl ad. Her idea of the perfect spokesman, quarterback Johnny Spurling but the Spurling family doesn’t do product endorsements. Erica thinks she has the angle that will appear to Johnny but what she doesn’t expect is an instant spark that seems to ignite both of them.
It was so easy to fall in love with both of these characters and their complicated, sexy, and intriguing relationship. At very different points in their lives and the fact that Johnny is working for her client leads them to decide they really shouldn’t see each other but yet they can’t seem to stay apart. It was as amusing as it was heartbreaking watching their tryst turn into so much more.
The secondary story lines added depth to this already full story and made it even better. Some of the additional characters were so fun to read and at times offered a little bit of comic relief to a relationship filled with angst, heartache, and some drama.
Full of passion, twists, turns, and some good old fashion wooing Playing For Keeps is an incredible addition to this series!
February 5, 2014
Sometimes you just need a cozy romantic book to curl up with and get yourself lost in, and this is definitely one of those books. Kate Donovan’s knack for writing had me engrossed within the first chapter, enticing me to continue reading on. I found myself instantly hooked into the storyline and i didn’t want to put the book down!
Erica McCall is a refreshing change for me; she’s a young attractive woman who is entirely focused on putting every ounce of her soul into her career, she’s delightfully stubborn and doesn’t like to give in easily when it matters most to her, and fiercely determined to do what she feels is right in her mind even if her heart is screaming something different. Johnny Spurling doesn’t come across as your stereotypical quarterback, he’s full of integrity and honour, his heart of gold won me over and made me want my own “Johnny”, he’s equally as determined and passionate as Erica, except he doesn’t let his mind entirely get the best of him. It’s refreshing to read a storyline where the leading man isn’t an egotistical jerk who only thinks of his own needs.
This book is so engrossing to me because it’s a realistic romance: They both have thriving careers, and are trying to make the best of the limited time that they have in each others presence.
This book is well worth a read, i would rate it at 4 out of 5 stars; my only criticism with this book is that the ending felt really abrupt and cut off, like maybe it was missing a epilogue to tie up the lose ends of the relationship storyline, it just didn’t feel complete.
My rating: 4/5
**A copy of this book was provided in return for an honest review**
Erica McCall is a refreshing change for me; she’s a young attractive woman who is entirely focused on putting every ounce of her soul into her career, she’s delightfully stubborn and doesn’t like to give in easily when it matters most to her, and fiercely determined to do what she feels is right in her mind even if her heart is screaming something different. Johnny Spurling doesn’t come across as your stereotypical quarterback, he’s full of integrity and honour, his heart of gold won me over and made me want my own “Johnny”, he’s equally as determined and passionate as Erica, except he doesn’t let his mind entirely get the best of him. It’s refreshing to read a storyline where the leading man isn’t an egotistical jerk who only thinks of his own needs.
This book is so engrossing to me because it’s a realistic romance: They both have thriving careers, and are trying to make the best of the limited time that they have in each others presence.
This book is well worth a read, i would rate it at 4 out of 5 stars; my only criticism with this book is that the ending felt really abrupt and cut off, like maybe it was missing a epilogue to tie up the lose ends of the relationship storyline, it just didn’t feel complete.
My rating: 4/5
**A copy of this book was provided in return for an honest review**
February 4, 2014
Erica McCall settles a sexual harassment claim at work but getting the big boss to give her a chance to pitch her ad idea for the Lager Storm beer company. Her idea includes using Lancers QB Johnny Spurling, an athlete who doesn't do commercials. The good news is that she gets to make the pitch to Johnny and his agent but the bad news is that she goes completely gaga over him. Having just made the case that she won't use sex to get ahead, she is torn when Johnny indicates that he has gone gag for her too. What follows is a hot and spicy romance that both parties agree has a time limit and must be kept undercover. The problem happens when feelings get in the way of the rational agreement.
I enjoyed reading this book because I liked both characters and how crazy they made each other trying to keep everything under wraps. Johnny was bit of a cad when he kept talking about how he was going to look for a wife after the season to please his father but Erica played along thinking she wasn't interested in settling down and giving up her career.
There was drama at Erica's job, drama between the two lovers and drama between Johnny and his two best friends on the team. The two players, Deck and Bannerman, provide a bit of comic relief to go along with the drama and I would love to see more of them in a future book.
All in all this was a fun read with just the right amount of sports mixed with romance.
I enjoyed reading this book because I liked both characters and how crazy they made each other trying to keep everything under wraps. Johnny was bit of a cad when he kept talking about how he was going to look for a wife after the season to please his father but Erica played along thinking she wasn't interested in settling down and giving up her career.
There was drama at Erica's job, drama between the two lovers and drama between Johnny and his two best friends on the team. The two players, Deck and Bannerman, provide a bit of comic relief to go along with the drama and I would love to see more of them in a future book.
All in all this was a fun read with just the right amount of sports mixed with romance.
February 12, 2014
I LOVED this book! It was fun, light and sexy. I could hardly put it down. I loved the instant combustible chemistry between Johnny and Erica, and Bam and Decker the rest of the Triple Threat…let me just say there had better be more books in this series because those boys are going to need happy endings of their own. The football descriptions were great, I even started to wonder if the team was going to make it (hey more drama for the plot right?). This book was well written and either very well researched or Kate has experience in the Pacific Northwest and with football. I live in the area and there was no moment I was reading that I was thrown out of the book by bad geography or unlikely local culture (this has happened before) and that was a pleasant surprise. I don’t know what else to say but I loved this book. It made me laugh, no crying but that’s good if you’re looking for a light read. I also liked that while there was enough angst for drama there was not so much it became frustrating (the angst gets old and I start wanting to yell “grow up already!” and I didn’t have to do that). I would recommend this book to all fans of the romance genre, especially those who love sports romances. If you like Jill Shalvis or Susan Mallery you should give Kate Donovan a try. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2016
After a dispute at the advertising agency she works for, Erica McCall gets her big breaking, pitching an idea for a Super Bowl add to the A-Team aka her superiors. When she wins, she knows exactly which spokesperson to pitch to, gorgeous NFL Quarterback Johnny Spurling. She's followed his career since college, the only hitch is that the Spurlings never do product endorsements....ever. She knows his weak spot, and exactly how to use it against him to get it to seal the deal. The instant attraction the two share doesn't hurt either.
Johnny Spurling, superstar Quarterback for the Lancers, is running out of time. His father's health is failing, and after the latest scare he asks Johnny for one thing; To settle down, get married and produce a son, the honour of naming his son Aaron falls to him, before it's too late. Which means Johnny needs a new kind of girlfriend, and no more casual hookups. His sister in law finally wears him down, and he promises to go on a blind date with one of her friends after the Super Bowl.
But then Johnny meets Erica, her beauty and her personality draw him in and he can't resist her outrageous proposal, and is relentless in securing a date with her. Johnny decides to do the commercial, and have one final fling before the blind date and settling down. They set the ground rules, and then proceed to break every one as their attraction spirals in to something more. As the days tick down, and the drama on the pitch with the Lancers performance and their kickers sudden slump, and the drama off the pitch with Johnny's bumbling mistakes, Erica tries to extricate herself from the footballer...but will he let her?
So I'm a huge football fan, and I was just coming down from the Super Bowl euphoria when I requested this book, and this threw me right back in to the excitement with a behind the scenes look at the NFL world.
This has got to be one of the few romances I've read lately that I've truly enjoyed and never wanted to end. It wasn't cheesy, it wasn't easy-breezey, and while it was attraction at first sight, you got to see the love grow between them. There was plenty of drama as Johnny mucked up more than once and they had plenty of obsticales to overcome. Playing for Keeps made me laugh, it made me sigh, it made me want to whack their heads together, and it gave me the warm and fuzzies plenty of times. Just what the doctor ordered when you need a pick me up!
Erica was such a strong female lead, and truly inspiring with her dedication to her career. She was very real for me, and I connected with her instantly. Johnny was too adorable, and had so much integrity, he just bumbles a few times in how he handles things which is quite endearingly sweet really. All the characters had depth and made you feel for them. I loved the characters of Sean and Bannerman, and loved their friendship with Erica, the scene when she's sorting their issues out was one of my favourites.
The prose was fantastic, the story fast paced and full of action. It was very in depth with the details of the matches, but it wasn't boring and didn't upset the flow. You get a really great insight in to a corporate kind of environment, and a great behind the scenes look at the NFL and it's football players. I kind of want my own NFL Quarterback! The ups and downs in their relationship and the misunderstandings, while making you want to bang their heads together, made the whole thing more realistic and more enjoyable.
The storyline was fantastic, great for when you don't want to concentrate to hard, but still full of depth and enjoyable to read. There where a few plot twists that I really didn't see coming, which kept it fresh. While mostly from Erica's point of view, there where a few chapters from Johnny's and I love getting the guys point of view in these kinds of romance stories.
Playing for Keeps is a real feel good, warm and fuzzies romance, with grit, and plenty of drama to keep you engrossed for hours. The attention to detail on the world created and the NFL details helps you totally vanish in to the world, and makes you want your own footballer! Playing for Keeps is filled with characters you'll love, and plenty of "aw" moments and 3 totally adorable guys. Truly enjoyable, and one you'll read again and again.
Johnny Spurling, superstar Quarterback for the Lancers, is running out of time. His father's health is failing, and after the latest scare he asks Johnny for one thing; To settle down, get married and produce a son, the honour of naming his son Aaron falls to him, before it's too late. Which means Johnny needs a new kind of girlfriend, and no more casual hookups. His sister in law finally wears him down, and he promises to go on a blind date with one of her friends after the Super Bowl.
But then Johnny meets Erica, her beauty and her personality draw him in and he can't resist her outrageous proposal, and is relentless in securing a date with her. Johnny decides to do the commercial, and have one final fling before the blind date and settling down. They set the ground rules, and then proceed to break every one as their attraction spirals in to something more. As the days tick down, and the drama on the pitch with the Lancers performance and their kickers sudden slump, and the drama off the pitch with Johnny's bumbling mistakes, Erica tries to extricate herself from the footballer...but will he let her?
So I'm a huge football fan, and I was just coming down from the Super Bowl euphoria when I requested this book, and this threw me right back in to the excitement with a behind the scenes look at the NFL world.
This has got to be one of the few romances I've read lately that I've truly enjoyed and never wanted to end. It wasn't cheesy, it wasn't easy-breezey, and while it was attraction at first sight, you got to see the love grow between them. There was plenty of drama as Johnny mucked up more than once and they had plenty of obsticales to overcome. Playing for Keeps made me laugh, it made me sigh, it made me want to whack their heads together, and it gave me the warm and fuzzies plenty of times. Just what the doctor ordered when you need a pick me up!
Erica was such a strong female lead, and truly inspiring with her dedication to her career. She was very real for me, and I connected with her instantly. Johnny was too adorable, and had so much integrity, he just bumbles a few times in how he handles things which is quite endearingly sweet really. All the characters had depth and made you feel for them. I loved the characters of Sean and Bannerman, and loved their friendship with Erica, the scene when she's sorting their issues out was one of my favourites.
The prose was fantastic, the story fast paced and full of action. It was very in depth with the details of the matches, but it wasn't boring and didn't upset the flow. You get a really great insight in to a corporate kind of environment, and a great behind the scenes look at the NFL and it's football players. I kind of want my own NFL Quarterback! The ups and downs in their relationship and the misunderstandings, while making you want to bang their heads together, made the whole thing more realistic and more enjoyable.
The storyline was fantastic, great for when you don't want to concentrate to hard, but still full of depth and enjoyable to read. There where a few plot twists that I really didn't see coming, which kept it fresh. While mostly from Erica's point of view, there where a few chapters from Johnny's and I love getting the guys point of view in these kinds of romance stories.
Playing for Keeps is a real feel good, warm and fuzzies romance, with grit, and plenty of drama to keep you engrossed for hours. The attention to detail on the world created and the NFL details helps you totally vanish in to the world, and makes you want your own footballer! Playing for Keeps is filled with characters you'll love, and plenty of "aw" moments and 3 totally adorable guys. Truly enjoyable, and one you'll read again and again.
September 8, 2016
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
I have been reading a lot of very heavy, emotionally charged books lately and I was looking for something light and fun to read. Instead of going to one of the many hundreds of books already waiting for me on my Kindle, I took to NetGalley to see what might be out there for a quick read. Enter, Playing For Keeps.
I’m not sure if I’m still coming off the Super Bowl victory of my beloved boys in blue (12th man in the house!), or if I’m caught up in the Valentine’s Day revelry, but I just absolutely fell in love with this book. I was looking for fun, sweet, easy and that is exactly what I got in Playing For Keeps. I know we’re not talking classic literature here, but this book is exactly what I was looking for when I most needed it.
Erica is an up and coming career woman trying hard to make it in the male dominated world of advertising. Soon she finds an opportunity to make a pitch that could catapult her to A-group stardom, but she has to watch every step she takes. She wants to make it based on her merits, and not because there happens to be instant molten attraction between her and the star of her commercial, Portland Lancers quarterback Johnny Spurling.
Johnny Spurling is the golden boy of the NFL. He was given the nickname, “the player” for his prowess on the field, but the media, being what it is, has taken the nickname out of context. Johnny is not known for womanizing, despite his “player” status, and at his father’s urging is actually looking to settle down and start a family. Unfortunately, his family has an idea of who he should be doing that with, not allowing him to make those decisions himself.
The Spurling family, two generations of football royalty, don’t do advertising; especially not for beer. So when Erica and her team pitch the idea of a beer commercial, one that capitalizes on the fact that Johnny is known as a gentleman (the tag line of the whole campaign is, “don’t be a douche”), Johnny sees this as a chance to solidify his nice guy status, while giving him an in with Erica. Of course Erica needs to keep any relationship with him on the down low, given their working arrangement. Not to mention, Johnny’s sister-in-law Beth has plans to set him up with a nice teacher friend after the Super Bowl.
I love reading romance novels that involve sports. I am a sports fan, I will admit, not just to see hot guys in tight uniforms, but I actually am interested in the game as well. So it’s really nice to see a strong heroine that can talk shop as well. I also appreciated how driven Erica is in regards to her career. She has her priorities in order and is not willing to sacrifice her goals in order to make others happy. And Johnny…sigh. Johnny does NOT disappoint as a hunky quarterback. I absolutely loved how their relationship evolved and he wasn’t afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve, in spite of being the tough football player. Real life emotions are dealt with in a real life way. Nothing too over the top, as the characters were both likeable and believable.
Playing For Keeps was a five star book for me. I know, I know…it’s syrupy sweet, a little predictable, but it was well written and kept me engrossed from cover to cover. We all have our guilty pleasures and a hot quarterback, a strong, independent heroine, and a cohesive storyline are some of mine. This book had all of the elements for a fun read that kept me warm on a chilly winter’s night, and helped alleviate some of the book hangover from the more serious books I’ve been reading lately. Thanks Ms. Donovan, I’m looking forward to meeting again…how do you feel about baseball players? Pitchers and catchers report soon…
I have been reading a lot of very heavy, emotionally charged books lately and I was looking for something light and fun to read. Instead of going to one of the many hundreds of books already waiting for me on my Kindle, I took to NetGalley to see what might be out there for a quick read. Enter, Playing For Keeps.
I’m not sure if I’m still coming off the Super Bowl victory of my beloved boys in blue (12th man in the house!), or if I’m caught up in the Valentine’s Day revelry, but I just absolutely fell in love with this book. I was looking for fun, sweet, easy and that is exactly what I got in Playing For Keeps. I know we’re not talking classic literature here, but this book is exactly what I was looking for when I most needed it.
Erica is an up and coming career woman trying hard to make it in the male dominated world of advertising. Soon she finds an opportunity to make a pitch that could catapult her to A-group stardom, but she has to watch every step she takes. She wants to make it based on her merits, and not because there happens to be instant molten attraction between her and the star of her commercial, Portland Lancers quarterback Johnny Spurling.
Johnny Spurling is the golden boy of the NFL. He was given the nickname, “the player” for his prowess on the field, but the media, being what it is, has taken the nickname out of context. Johnny is not known for womanizing, despite his “player” status, and at his father’s urging is actually looking to settle down and start a family. Unfortunately, his family has an idea of who he should be doing that with, not allowing him to make those decisions himself.
The Spurling family, two generations of football royalty, don’t do advertising; especially not for beer. So when Erica and her team pitch the idea of a beer commercial, one that capitalizes on the fact that Johnny is known as a gentleman (the tag line of the whole campaign is, “don’t be a douche”), Johnny sees this as a chance to solidify his nice guy status, while giving him an in with Erica. Of course Erica needs to keep any relationship with him on the down low, given their working arrangement. Not to mention, Johnny’s sister-in-law Beth has plans to set him up with a nice teacher friend after the Super Bowl.
I love reading romance novels that involve sports. I am a sports fan, I will admit, not just to see hot guys in tight uniforms, but I actually am interested in the game as well. So it’s really nice to see a strong heroine that can talk shop as well. I also appreciated how driven Erica is in regards to her career. She has her priorities in order and is not willing to sacrifice her goals in order to make others happy. And Johnny…sigh. Johnny does NOT disappoint as a hunky quarterback. I absolutely loved how their relationship evolved and he wasn’t afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve, in spite of being the tough football player. Real life emotions are dealt with in a real life way. Nothing too over the top, as the characters were both likeable and believable.
Playing For Keeps was a five star book for me. I know, I know…it’s syrupy sweet, a little predictable, but it was well written and kept me engrossed from cover to cover. We all have our guilty pleasures and a hot quarterback, a strong, independent heroine, and a cohesive storyline are some of mine. This book had all of the elements for a fun read that kept me warm on a chilly winter’s night, and helped alleviate some of the book hangover from the more serious books I’ve been reading lately. Thanks Ms. Donovan, I’m looking forward to meeting again…how do you feel about baseball players? Pitchers and catchers report soon…
February 4, 2014
Johnny is a big a** flirt, "the beer is good. You're tasty." He reached for her hand again. "We'll be discreet, I promise. Caldwell and the a**hole and the mentor guy will never know." He gives the best compliments, "yeah, but you're so God damned pretty." He cupped her chin in his hand and insisted, "I'll do whatever you want, Erica. Anything. We'll make this work, I promise." And he gets upset when he thinks someone hurts his woman, "did he force himself on you?" Johnny rose out of his chair. "Do damn it!" He's always in a good mood after he and Erica are done making whoopie, "if by silly you mean hot as hell, yeah." He raised himself on one elbow and looked down at her, his dark eyes sparkling. "What are you doing here? It's only Sunday. Or maybe Monday." I liked reading this book and can't wait to see more out of this author.
July 27, 2016
***ARC from NetGalley in Exchange for an honest review***
I believe I am in the minority because I did not thoroughly enjoy this book. The whole thing felt a little contrived for me. The way that Erica handles the situation at work is gutsy but I’m not sure it is very realistic nor was the company’s (HR/owner/boss) response to it. Then there was the pitch to Johnny Spurling, a little speech and a drink in the bar (oh and an off chance he can get into Erica’s pants) makes him change his mind on a holy-grail rule of his career…? I don’t doubt there are good guys in the advertising and football worlds but these people felt too perfect, too one-dimensional. I never understood how Erica and Johnny fell for each other…it was like “nice to meet you” one minute and “I want you desperately” the next. The supporting characters were even more one-dimensional…sorry.
I believe I am in the minority because I did not thoroughly enjoy this book. The whole thing felt a little contrived for me. The way that Erica handles the situation at work is gutsy but I’m not sure it is very realistic nor was the company’s (HR/owner/boss) response to it. Then there was the pitch to Johnny Spurling, a little speech and a drink in the bar (oh and an off chance he can get into Erica’s pants) makes him change his mind on a holy-grail rule of his career…? I don’t doubt there are good guys in the advertising and football worlds but these people felt too perfect, too one-dimensional. I never understood how Erica and Johnny fell for each other…it was like “nice to meet you” one minute and “I want you desperately” the next. The supporting characters were even more one-dimensional…sorry.
September 10, 2016
Received a copy of the book from Netgalley for an honest review.
Unfortunately I did not care for this book. I was excited about it because I love a hot athlete. My problem with the book came not long after it started. I did not like how Erika and Johnny hit it off so quick. Erika just gave in the first time Johnny said, "lets have some fun." Seemed unrealistic to me. I prefer a book with some suspense into the relationship. I felt they were together right from the beginning. I also felt like there was character and story development left out. As I was reading I came across Johnny saying "I love you." Where did that come from? I never felt they had any relationship built up. I hate to be negative because I know how hard the author worked. This was just not for me.
Unfortunately I did not care for this book. I was excited about it because I love a hot athlete. My problem with the book came not long after it started. I did not like how Erika and Johnny hit it off so quick. Erika just gave in the first time Johnny said, "lets have some fun." Seemed unrealistic to me. I prefer a book with some suspense into the relationship. I felt they were together right from the beginning. I also felt like there was character and story development left out. As I was reading I came across Johnny saying "I love you." Where did that come from? I never felt they had any relationship built up. I hate to be negative because I know how hard the author worked. This was just not for me.
May 12, 2014
such a wonderful read. Love the way the thoughts from Johnny and Erica are presented. I will say there were times when Erica irritated me and I wanted to slap her upside the head. Johnny loved her anyone could see that and all she could do was doubt, self destruct and put more into something than it was.
Both of these two are trying to get past things and prove something. Johnny is trying to show that his nickname as the player isn't about his love life and woman but his playing on the football field. Erica is trying to prove she deserves to move up in the company based on merit and not her gender and claiming sexual harassment. Both are also trying to deal with overwhelming families. Johnny's is pressuring for him to settle down to the point where the guilt him into a blind date and possibly marriage a month after the date and hers into showing that she is too weak for advertising.
Erica needs Johnny for a ad campaign. Johnny and his family generally do not do promos of any kind. Erica is about to change that. How? She gets to Johnny's desire to change people's view of him as a ladies man that and he is attracted to her. As she is him. johnny makes some fun flirtations to her and she shoots him down. He isn't phased though and they start talking on the phone. Getting excited to see each other again as the phone calls get more personal and intimate until Erica's coworkers say something that is snarky and gets her questioning things. Bad Erica bad. Johnny is a good sport about it though and respects her wishes. Heck he supports her as well. Something she didn't think he did.
when the ad shoot occurs these two can't fight the attraction any more and come together. they secretly agree to continue and not tell anyone. She knows about his family setting him up on a blind date and uses this as a dead set line excuse as to why she can't get involved. But the heart has other thoughts and they keep getting closer. Johnny falls in love and does tell her outwardly. Mind you they have misunderstandings and disagreements along the way but he doesn't want anyone else and is very supportive of her. Erica comes up with the blind date and him not wanting someone with a career as reasons to distance herself.
Johnny does leave a silly message that sounds bad to Erica who is a wee bit sensitive on things and it sets her off. She helps out but that was her ultimatum point and Johnny agrees to her terms hoping she will change her mind. It does end with a happy ending.
Johnny and his buddies Deck and Bannerman are so precious. Such great guys. Respectful of woman. his sister in law is scary though. His dad is cute as a button. And I love Erica's coworkers Jen, Meg and Steve. They really help her along the way. I want to see the story of Deck and his blind date, maybe one on bannerman and Erica's brother deserves a story as well.
A story on how love can conquer all and patience is the key. A story showing you can't judge a book by its cover and you should listen to your heart. a sweet and sexy read that will have you smiling to the end.
Both of these two are trying to get past things and prove something. Johnny is trying to show that his nickname as the player isn't about his love life and woman but his playing on the football field. Erica is trying to prove she deserves to move up in the company based on merit and not her gender and claiming sexual harassment. Both are also trying to deal with overwhelming families. Johnny's is pressuring for him to settle down to the point where the guilt him into a blind date and possibly marriage a month after the date and hers into showing that she is too weak for advertising.
Erica needs Johnny for a ad campaign. Johnny and his family generally do not do promos of any kind. Erica is about to change that. How? She gets to Johnny's desire to change people's view of him as a ladies man that and he is attracted to her. As she is him. johnny makes some fun flirtations to her and she shoots him down. He isn't phased though and they start talking on the phone. Getting excited to see each other again as the phone calls get more personal and intimate until Erica's coworkers say something that is snarky and gets her questioning things. Bad Erica bad. Johnny is a good sport about it though and respects her wishes. Heck he supports her as well. Something she didn't think he did.
when the ad shoot occurs these two can't fight the attraction any more and come together. they secretly agree to continue and not tell anyone. She knows about his family setting him up on a blind date and uses this as a dead set line excuse as to why she can't get involved. But the heart has other thoughts and they keep getting closer. Johnny falls in love and does tell her outwardly. Mind you they have misunderstandings and disagreements along the way but he doesn't want anyone else and is very supportive of her. Erica comes up with the blind date and him not wanting someone with a career as reasons to distance herself.
Johnny does leave a silly message that sounds bad to Erica who is a wee bit sensitive on things and it sets her off. She helps out but that was her ultimatum point and Johnny agrees to her terms hoping she will change her mind. It does end with a happy ending.
Johnny and his buddies Deck and Bannerman are so precious. Such great guys. Respectful of woman. his sister in law is scary though. His dad is cute as a button. And I love Erica's coworkers Jen, Meg and Steve. They really help her along the way. I want to see the story of Deck and his blind date, maybe one on bannerman and Erica's brother deserves a story as well.
A story on how love can conquer all and patience is the key. A story showing you can't judge a book by its cover and you should listen to your heart. a sweet and sexy read that will have you smiling to the end.
March 7, 2014
4 Stars
Contemporary Romance
Release: January 28, 2014
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Erica McCall finally gets her big break in advertising, she knows just which spokesperson to pitch: gorgeous football superstar Johnny Spurling. She has followed his career since college and knows he’s perfect for the spot, even though it’s common knowledge his famous family doesn’t do product endorsements, ever. But Erica knows Johnny’s weak spot, and she’s confident she can use it to gain his trust and seal the deal.
Quarterback Johnny Spurling is running out of time. His father’s health is failing, and there’s one last thing he’s asked Johnny to do—settle down and produce a son, before it’s too late. Which means Johnny needs a new kind of girlfriend. No more casual hookups or high-maintenance divas. When his sister-in-law claims to have the perfect candidate, he urges her to set up a postseason blind date.
Then Johnny meets long-haired, long-legged Erica and can’t resist her outrageous proposal—or her. So he decides he’ll do the commercial and have one final, hot-as-hell fling before settling down. They set the ground rules, then proceed to break every one of them as fun turns to the kind of true romance that just doesn’t end with the final touchdown—and with luck, never ends at all.
MY REVIEW:
This was a cute read! I have to say, the cover didn’t grab my attention, but the blurb definitely did and I am so glad I got a chance to check out this author.
The premise behind the book was super cute, and very true to many women who are trying to build their careers. Now, toss a hot guy into the bunch and he’s connected to your job? BAM! Fireworks. And that’s exactly what happened. The conflict was kept high, the worries on both sides very real, and the supporting characters were cute as all heck.
The only drawback to this book is a personal preference. KD did so well with details and capturing emotions, the minds, and the tension in the book, but when it came to anything dealing with a sexual scene, even kissing, it fell flat. I would have enjoyed staying in the minds of the characters throughout the entire process and story, but with how abrupt it stops, you can’t help but to blink at the page and be completely taken from the story.
This story is written very well, the characters are a hoot and completely relatable. This isn’t one you’re going to want to miss. Make sure to get your copy now!
Contemporary Romance
Release: January 28, 2014
ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Erica McCall finally gets her big break in advertising, she knows just which spokesperson to pitch: gorgeous football superstar Johnny Spurling. She has followed his career since college and knows he’s perfect for the spot, even though it’s common knowledge his famous family doesn’t do product endorsements, ever. But Erica knows Johnny’s weak spot, and she’s confident she can use it to gain his trust and seal the deal.
Quarterback Johnny Spurling is running out of time. His father’s health is failing, and there’s one last thing he’s asked Johnny to do—settle down and produce a son, before it’s too late. Which means Johnny needs a new kind of girlfriend. No more casual hookups or high-maintenance divas. When his sister-in-law claims to have the perfect candidate, he urges her to set up a postseason blind date.
Then Johnny meets long-haired, long-legged Erica and can’t resist her outrageous proposal—or her. So he decides he’ll do the commercial and have one final, hot-as-hell fling before settling down. They set the ground rules, then proceed to break every one of them as fun turns to the kind of true romance that just doesn’t end with the final touchdown—and with luck, never ends at all.
MY REVIEW:
This was a cute read! I have to say, the cover didn’t grab my attention, but the blurb definitely did and I am so glad I got a chance to check out this author.
The premise behind the book was super cute, and very true to many women who are trying to build their careers. Now, toss a hot guy into the bunch and he’s connected to your job? BAM! Fireworks. And that’s exactly what happened. The conflict was kept high, the worries on both sides very real, and the supporting characters were cute as all heck.
The only drawback to this book is a personal preference. KD did so well with details and capturing emotions, the minds, and the tension in the book, but when it came to anything dealing with a sexual scene, even kissing, it fell flat. I would have enjoyed staying in the minds of the characters throughout the entire process and story, but with how abrupt it stops, you can’t help but to blink at the page and be completely taken from the story.
This story is written very well, the characters are a hoot and completely relatable. This isn’t one you’re going to want to miss. Make sure to get your copy now!
July 12, 2015
Received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I usually make it to the end of even the most disappointing romance novel but reading this one was so torturous I had to resort to some fast scanning of the last third of the book.
I really don't want to go through and slate the whole book from start to finish so here are just some of the things I disliked:
- No sexual tension between Johnny and Erica and no build-up. One minute they are meeting for the first time and the next they are holding hands.
- Johnny agreeing to go on a blind date with his sister-in-law's friend and talks about proposing to her despite the fact he's never met her and knows nothing about her.
- Johnny's father pressuring him to have kids so he can name one of them after him, despite the fact Johnny's brother has a family and is more than willing to do so.
- The constant sexual harassments. I understand the set-up with Frank's comments and thus giving the chance for Erica to pitch her idea but she then gets hit on by every inappropriate male. WTF? Trust me, I know how this happens to a woman in a man's world but she must be extremely unlucky to have every sleazy male she's ever met try something with her.
- Johnny 'whoring' out her services to two of her team mates. I don't know what is more laughable about this situation but the fact she ended up counseling them and sorting out their love life entanglements with twins is definitely part of it.
Finally, the one saving grace about bad romances is that they are usually short but this went on and on and on.
January 31, 2015
This is the third book of Kate’s that I have read. I have to say that her books are very engaging. You become fully invested in her characters because each one for sure brings something different to the table. Invoking so many different emotions in you that you feel you are right there in the story with them all.
This story revolves around Erica McCall who is an up and coming in the Advertising World. She finally getting her chance to work with the A-team. Several think she took a cheap shot in how she got there by filing a formal complaint on Frank Garr for sexual harassment. She agreed not to file formal charges on him and in turn her bosses are allowing her to be able to pitch an idea she has for a client they have.
Plus a gag order on all at the meeting which was the owner, Frank and A-team executives. All agreed.
Yet, Frank had a problem keeping from making crude remarks over and over again. Her idea was accepted on the condition she could get Johnny Spurling who he and his family never did commercial endorsements, but especially for beer since his mom and brother were killed by drunk drivers. So due to this commercial to air at the half time of the Super Bowl, not wanting his family to find out and clearing things with the league, the NFL, and the Lancers the team Johnny plays QB for. Mum was the word.
Plus when they met with Johnny and his agent Murf, there was a glow of sexual chemistry that bounced off Erica and Johnny. So, when they chose to have a couple of nights together they knew it would have to be over by Super Bowl. He had promised his dad he would finally settle down, get married, and start a family. So, finally agreed to have a blind date with a school teacher after Super Bowl that his sister-in-law would set up. Or will it happen???
The ones that stole my heart in this book were “Bam Man” and “Deck.” I want me a “Deck.” They were just so funny, sweet, and cute. I give this book 5 stars.
This story revolves around Erica McCall who is an up and coming in the Advertising World. She finally getting her chance to work with the A-team. Several think she took a cheap shot in how she got there by filing a formal complaint on Frank Garr for sexual harassment. She agreed not to file formal charges on him and in turn her bosses are allowing her to be able to pitch an idea she has for a client they have.
Plus a gag order on all at the meeting which was the owner, Frank and A-team executives. All agreed.
Yet, Frank had a problem keeping from making crude remarks over and over again. Her idea was accepted on the condition she could get Johnny Spurling who he and his family never did commercial endorsements, but especially for beer since his mom and brother were killed by drunk drivers. So due to this commercial to air at the half time of the Super Bowl, not wanting his family to find out and clearing things with the league, the NFL, and the Lancers the team Johnny plays QB for. Mum was the word.
Plus when they met with Johnny and his agent Murf, there was a glow of sexual chemistry that bounced off Erica and Johnny. So, when they chose to have a couple of nights together they knew it would have to be over by Super Bowl. He had promised his dad he would finally settle down, get married, and start a family. So, finally agreed to have a blind date with a school teacher after Super Bowl that his sister-in-law would set up. Or will it happen???
The ones that stole my heart in this book were “Bam Man” and “Deck.” I want me a “Deck.” They were just so funny, sweet, and cute. I give this book 5 stars.
February 13, 2014
Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book!
A few months back I read the first book in Kate Donovan's Play Makers series, Play by Play. I enjoyed it, but didn't just fall madly in love with it. Playing for Keeps is a bit different! I loved it. A lot.
I had the same problem with our female lead, Erica, that I seem to have with a lot of leading ladies lately. She wouldn't speak up, wouldn't just ask the big questions on her mind. But then she'd make up or it, by doing something else equally as awesome. So it was forgivable for the most part.
And sure, Johnny's instalust with her, and his stupidity sometimes was a bit grating on the nerves. But overall? He was a great hero. He has a heart of gold, and cares for his family, his team and obviously, Kate. He oozes alpha-male, and it's fantastic.
And of course, my favorite part? Our supporting crew? I loved Johnny's team - these guys were fantastic. I could have done without Erica's coworkers, but that's life. Right? But Bannerman and Decker, and the story of their friendship and struggles on the field really made this book with me, especially the friendship they developed with Erica!
If I have one complaint about Kate Donovan's writing? It's that the steamy stuff is DEFINITELY not her forte. Playing for Keeps was WORLDS above Play By Play - no cheese factor - but it just didn't "do it" for me, if you know what I mean!
In the end? Playing for Keeps was a fun, quick read that I enjoyed thoroughly! I am really hoping there's more to this series, I'd love a few more books! (Maybe Bannerman and Decker to get their own stories!)
A few months back I read the first book in Kate Donovan's Play Makers series, Play by Play. I enjoyed it, but didn't just fall madly in love with it. Playing for Keeps is a bit different! I loved it. A lot.
I had the same problem with our female lead, Erica, that I seem to have with a lot of leading ladies lately. She wouldn't speak up, wouldn't just ask the big questions on her mind. But then she'd make up or it, by doing something else equally as awesome. So it was forgivable for the most part.
And sure, Johnny's instalust with her, and his stupidity sometimes was a bit grating on the nerves. But overall? He was a great hero. He has a heart of gold, and cares for his family, his team and obviously, Kate. He oozes alpha-male, and it's fantastic.
And of course, my favorite part? Our supporting crew? I loved Johnny's team - these guys were fantastic. I could have done without Erica's coworkers, but that's life. Right? But Bannerman and Decker, and the story of their friendship and struggles on the field really made this book with me, especially the friendship they developed with Erica!
If I have one complaint about Kate Donovan's writing? It's that the steamy stuff is DEFINITELY not her forte. Playing for Keeps was WORLDS above Play By Play - no cheese factor - but it just didn't "do it" for me, if you know what I mean!
In the end? Playing for Keeps was a fun, quick read that I enjoyed thoroughly! I am really hoping there's more to this series, I'd love a few more books! (Maybe Bannerman and Decker to get their own stories!)
February 9, 2014
Another great book from Kate Donovan. Romantic, sexy, and charming. I really enjoyed it. Plus, look at that cover. Just looking at it makes you want to buy the book. LOL.
Erica McCall is an advertising newbie who knows exactly what she wants. Johnny Spurling, the Lancers sexy QB for her Super Bowl Ad. Problem is to convince him that she's the one to help him with his image as a Player (as in team) and not a playa. One look at Erica and Johnny is sunk. The chemistry between them is instantaneous and explosive. He makes a deal with her. He'll do the commercial if she'll give them a chance to be a hot as hell fling until after the Super Bowl. He'd promised his father he would settle down and would go on a blind date set up by his sister in law to make his family happy. They set the rules for their fling but you know what they say about rules, they're meant to be broken. Boy, those were some hot rule breaking. Although they are both fighting to stay detached from a relationship, they just can't stay away from one another. I loved their chemistry together and I loved the Triple Threat team of Decker, Bannerman and Johnny. If theses two don't get their own book, I would totally be surprised. My only peeve with the book is the yo-yo relationship. Are we together are we not together? Is this a fling, is it not a fling? I swear almost every chapter. I know a good book needs conflict but did it have to be so dizzying? Ughh. All in all, I liked it and can't wait for the next one.
I received a copy from netgalley for an honest review.
Erica McCall is an advertising newbie who knows exactly what she wants. Johnny Spurling, the Lancers sexy QB for her Super Bowl Ad. Problem is to convince him that she's the one to help him with his image as a Player (as in team) and not a playa. One look at Erica and Johnny is sunk. The chemistry between them is instantaneous and explosive. He makes a deal with her. He'll do the commercial if she'll give them a chance to be a hot as hell fling until after the Super Bowl. He'd promised his father he would settle down and would go on a blind date set up by his sister in law to make his family happy. They set the rules for their fling but you know what they say about rules, they're meant to be broken. Boy, those were some hot rule breaking. Although they are both fighting to stay detached from a relationship, they just can't stay away from one another. I loved their chemistry together and I loved the Triple Threat team of Decker, Bannerman and Johnny. If theses two don't get their own book, I would totally be surprised. My only peeve with the book is the yo-yo relationship. Are we together are we not together? Is this a fling, is it not a fling? I swear almost every chapter. I know a good book needs conflict but did it have to be so dizzying? Ughh. All in all, I liked it and can't wait for the next one.
I received a copy from netgalley for an honest review.
November 28, 2017
This book gets 1 Star from me. The only reason is because I finished it. That's got to deserve something, right??
Other than that, it was kind of painful. There was no connection between the main characters. It was like one day they were strangers and the next in love. Why were they in love? Who knows. The author sure didn't tell or show us. There was so much time spent describing in detail, what's happening in both of their careers and not as a couple. As a love story, it sucked. If you want to read pages of description of board room meetings and football, then this is for you.
I also didn't like how the heroine was so career obsessed and that ran to the very end. For some feminists and crazy people, that seems great. As a romance, it's stupid. All relationships need compromise, give and take and they can't survive without it. If your main priority is you, your relationship will fail. That's not romantic.
And also why did she have no problem saying "fuck" one minute and then the next it was "effing" or "a-hole." I just don't get why...
Lets not forget that the heroine is supposed to have been loved greatly by the other players. She was constantly kissing them on the cheek, cuddling with them, eating breakfast because she was the good luck charm of another... it just got annoying because it comes across like the author is writing what she wishes people thought of her instead of reality.
Too many plot holes for me and just an all over pointless read.
Other than that, it was kind of painful. There was no connection between the main characters. It was like one day they were strangers and the next in love. Why were they in love? Who knows. The author sure didn't tell or show us. There was so much time spent describing in detail, what's happening in both of their careers and not as a couple. As a love story, it sucked. If you want to read pages of description of board room meetings and football, then this is for you.
I also didn't like how the heroine was so career obsessed and that ran to the very end. For some feminists and crazy people, that seems great. As a romance, it's stupid. All relationships need compromise, give and take and they can't survive without it. If your main priority is you, your relationship will fail. That's not romantic.
And also why did she have no problem saying "fuck" one minute and then the next it was "effing" or "a-hole." I just don't get why...
Lets not forget that the heroine is supposed to have been loved greatly by the other players. She was constantly kissing them on the cheek, cuddling with them, eating breakfast because she was the good luck charm of another... it just got annoying because it comes across like the author is writing what she wishes people thought of her instead of reality.
Too many plot holes for me and just an all over pointless read.
May 19, 2015
DNF
I rarely DNF - because most of the time if a book is not working for me it will a few weeks later - just isn't right at the moment - not the case here - my issues with the book won't improve with time.
The first chapter intrigued me - but sadly after that I tried for a few chapters but I can't find anything I like about the book other than it is about football which I love.
Erica is a B-Team associate in an advertising agency and I really enjoyed the pitch she gave for a Superbowl Ad - except for one word. She makes a case to everyone why this one word is necessary - didn't convince me and lost me some there.
Erica and Johnny try to convey immediate attraction but I get more immediate lust with lack of control or professionalism. Erica tried to act as a professional but Johnny talked her out of it (okay didn't take much but he could have been a gentleman and listened to her wishes and followed them) This is what ended it for me - they lost my respect at this point and I had no interest in reading any more.
There is another book in this series and I have it to review - I will give it a try, as the opening novella in this series was cute.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
I rarely DNF - because most of the time if a book is not working for me it will a few weeks later - just isn't right at the moment - not the case here - my issues with the book won't improve with time.
The first chapter intrigued me - but sadly after that I tried for a few chapters but I can't find anything I like about the book other than it is about football which I love.
Erica is a B-Team associate in an advertising agency and I really enjoyed the pitch she gave for a Superbowl Ad - except for one word. She makes a case to everyone why this one word is necessary - didn't convince me and lost me some there.
Erica and Johnny try to convey immediate attraction but I get more immediate lust with lack of control or professionalism. Erica tried to act as a professional but Johnny talked her out of it (okay didn't take much but he could have been a gentleman and listened to her wishes and followed them) This is what ended it for me - they lost my respect at this point and I had no interest in reading any more.
There is another book in this series and I have it to review - I will give it a try, as the opening novella in this series was cute.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
August 10, 2016
NOTE: A copy of this book was provided via NetGalley for review.
Having read the preceding novella, I had been curious where this first full book in the series would go. And it didn't disappoint. Fans of similar sport themed protagonists will enjoy this.
Johnny sees Erica exiting a limo and it's lust at first sight. As it turns out, Erica is there to pitch an ad campaign at him. Their chemistry is instantaneous and combustible. As the storyline moves through the ad campaign and football season, their relationship grows in a believable way. Both characters are likeable and the reader is introduced to supporting characters that you can see future books in the series highlighting.
If the purpose of books in a proposed series is to get the reader to like the characters (main and supporting) in order to interest them enough to anticipate the next book, then I think this one did its job.
Decker. Bam. The Surgeon. Bring them on.
My one big peeve and I'm sure this had to do with trademarks, but Super Bowl Saturday? From one football fan to another, that's just wrong.
Having read the preceding novella, I had been curious where this first full book in the series would go. And it didn't disappoint. Fans of similar sport themed protagonists will enjoy this.
Johnny sees Erica exiting a limo and it's lust at first sight. As it turns out, Erica is there to pitch an ad campaign at him. Their chemistry is instantaneous and combustible. As the storyline moves through the ad campaign and football season, their relationship grows in a believable way. Both characters are likeable and the reader is introduced to supporting characters that you can see future books in the series highlighting.
If the purpose of books in a proposed series is to get the reader to like the characters (main and supporting) in order to interest them enough to anticipate the next book, then I think this one did its job.
Decker. Bam. The Surgeon. Bring them on.
My one big peeve and I'm sure this had to do with trademarks, but Super Bowl Saturday? From one football fan to another, that's just wrong.
July 31, 2014
Erica McCall, Johnny Spurling
The Characters
I like them both. Erica and Johnny are both driven and know what they want from life. Our secondary characters, Sean Decker and Vince Bannerman, could have stolen the show. I hope to see more of them in the future.
The Story
It was mostly just okay. It had some high points. The tension of Sean and Bammerman's secret (which I still feel let down on). Reading about the games, the will they or won't they win. The surprise plays all of that was great. When it came to Erica and Johnny's relationship though a lot of the story dragged for me. I know they were conflicted about making their relationship work but there was SO much back and forth that it got old quick. It noticeably took more oomph for me to get through some of those scenes. Overall I enjoyed the story, I enjoyed the interactions between characters and I was thrilled with the outcome.
Randoms
I don't have any other random at the moment.
3.5 Stars
The Characters
I like them both. Erica and Johnny are both driven and know what they want from life. Our secondary characters, Sean Decker and Vince Bannerman, could have stolen the show. I hope to see more of them in the future.
The Story
It was mostly just okay. It had some high points. The tension of Sean and Bammerman's secret (which I still feel let down on). Reading about the games, the will they or won't they win. The surprise plays all of that was great. When it came to Erica and Johnny's relationship though a lot of the story dragged for me. I know they were conflicted about making their relationship work but there was SO much back and forth that it got old quick. It noticeably took more oomph for me to get through some of those scenes. Overall I enjoyed the story, I enjoyed the interactions between characters and I was thrilled with the outcome.
Randoms
I don't have any other random at the moment.
3.5 Stars
September 5, 2014
So this is interesting...I had read the first in this series and was very disappointed to not see Sophie in this book. I was hoping to get a little bit of them in this one. Well, anyhoo ...I enjoyed this book it is a romance that was not meant to be one. Johnny Spurling is the QB for the Lancers and does not ever do any promotions. Commercials are off limits and is taken to a promo meeting by his manager. If you could guess that the one woman who he was drooling over in the lobby on his way up happens to be the one pitching the idea for this ad. His attraction to her has him saying yes even though it is a huge deal in his family to not do endorsements. Erika has some issues and is looking at this as a fling. This is a good read and had me laughing out loud. These football players are hot and sexy! Bannerman seems like a big teddy bear and would love to read a story with him. I enjoyed the story over all and look forward to reading what is next in this series.
I received this ARC via Net Galley for my honest review.
I received this ARC via Net Galley for my honest review.
July 7, 2018
Contemporary romance with a tinge of woman power. Three chapters into this book, I could not imagine how this was going to turn out happily ever after. But holy crap, it turns out even better than I expected. There are minimal football references in this book. Erica McCall is an extremely likeable, relatable lead character. She has been through the ringer recently. She is coming out more than a little bruised and gun-shy. When she has to convince Johnny Spurling to appear in her very first commercial, the attraction is instant, but she is afraid. Both have some things to get through and some less than smart decisions to make before they can have their happily ever after. But boy do they get a great happily ever after. This book is worth reading for the happily after alone. However, the rest of the story is really amazing too. If you want a heartwarming, non religious Contemporary romance, this is for you.
I received this book through NetGalley from Beyond the Page Publishing in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book through NetGalley from Beyond the Page Publishing in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 8, 2014
There are so many wonderful things about Playing for Keeps. Kate made it a light-hearted, sexy read that will keep you on your toes. I'm all for a good book the centers around sports, especially football. Johnny Spurling is part of the triple-threat, one of the best QB's in the NFL. He comes from a family that is all about football. His father is one of the list respected coaches out there. And his brother also plays in the NFL. They are also known for never doing endorsements. That's all about to change when Erica McCall makes a pitch that Johnny just can't seem to refuse.
Erica is working on her first advertising campaign for Lager Storm. And she wants Johnny as the star. Her career is riding on this campaign being a success. What she wasn't counting on was the star trying to woo her in the process.
The banter that came along with this book was wonderful. I did find it a little hard to get into in the beginning, but that didn't hinder how much fun I had reading it. Once I started, I wasn't able to put it down. I will definitely be picking up more by Kate Donovan.
Erica is working on her first advertising campaign for Lager Storm. And she wants Johnny as the star. Her career is riding on this campaign being a success. What she wasn't counting on was the star trying to woo her in the process.
The banter that came along with this book was wonderful. I did find it a little hard to get into in the beginning, but that didn't hinder how much fun I had reading it. Once I started, I wasn't able to put it down. I will definitely be picking up more by Kate Donovan.
February 24, 2014
*ARC given by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I give this book 4 stars. Erica McCall works in advertising and has a chance to come up with a product endorsement. When the big boss loves her idea she requests to set up a meeting with Johnny Spurling.
Johnny Spurling is a Quarterback. When his dad ends up in the hospital his only request for his son is to finally settle down. So he tells his dad that he will go out with his sister-in-laws friend who is a school teacher after the Superbowl.
Even though his family does not do product endorsements ever he wanted to go to this meeting himself. When he see's Erica he signs the contracts. He is instantly attracted to her and wants to know more about her. When they start a relationship Erica has a hard time knowing that after the Superbowl they wont be seeing each other anymore.
I really enjoyed this book. I love how Football was not the complete focus and that the relationship was just as important.
I give this book 4 stars. Erica McCall works in advertising and has a chance to come up with a product endorsement. When the big boss loves her idea she requests to set up a meeting with Johnny Spurling.
Johnny Spurling is a Quarterback. When his dad ends up in the hospital his only request for his son is to finally settle down. So he tells his dad that he will go out with his sister-in-laws friend who is a school teacher after the Superbowl.
Even though his family does not do product endorsements ever he wanted to go to this meeting himself. When he see's Erica he signs the contracts. He is instantly attracted to her and wants to know more about her. When they start a relationship Erica has a hard time knowing that after the Superbowl they wont be seeing each other anymore.
I really enjoyed this book. I love how Football was not the complete focus and that the relationship was just as important.
September 6, 2016
OH MY!! This book w3as just GREAT! I loved the 2 main characters, and the supporting characters were just as awesome!
I hadn't read book 1 in the play makers series, and that was fine, as these books can definitely be read as standalones!
I loved the "Triple Threat" and hope Bam & Decker have their own stories to tell!
Both Johnny & Erica were characters that you just fall in love with! The quite private NFL quarterback aiming for his team to make the Super Bowl and the quietly confident advertising newbie trying to make her mark, after making it to the "A" team.
I love how Johnny & Erica interacted and second guessed each other, It was a great read, steamy at times, and fun thoughout! A real page turner!
I discovered this book as a "Read Now" over at NetGalley - In exchange for an honest review
I hadn't read book 1 in the play makers series, and that was fine, as these books can definitely be read as standalones!
I loved the "Triple Threat" and hope Bam & Decker have their own stories to tell!
Both Johnny & Erica were characters that you just fall in love with! The quite private NFL quarterback aiming for his team to make the Super Bowl and the quietly confident advertising newbie trying to make her mark, after making it to the "A" team.
I love how Johnny & Erica interacted and second guessed each other, It was a great read, steamy at times, and fun thoughout! A real page turner!
I discovered this book as a "Read Now" over at NetGalley - In exchange for an honest review
March 3, 2014
Playing for Keeps by Kate Donovan was an easy, fun read for this non-sports reader. However, this story is less about the sport of football and more about the biases and perception of others. Johnny, star quarterback, and Erica, upcoming ad agent, hit it off early but there are always complications and so it is here too. The story progresses at an evenly pace with the usual bumps in the road. Maybe not much suspense or heart wrenching but it kept my interest all the way through. Isn’t that a sign of a good book? Bottom line, it’s a well-crafted romance story that takes in the sports business setting. Kate Donavan, you might make a sport fan out of me yet.
Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
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