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Playing for Hearts #5
Surprisingly
Bruce Coldwell, world-class pro bass fisherman, walks into his friend Crista Johnson’s apartment and instantly falls in lust with Crista’s supermodel neighbor. The two weeks of vacation with his best friend will give him the perfect opportunity to dally with the bombshell. Now all he has to do is convince Crista to hook them up.
Excited to have her friend Bruce stay with her, Crista Johnson plans out their whole staycation. But, when he asks her to set him up with a woman she’s trying to un-friend from her life, Crista knows he’s asking the impossible. Janelle is a piranha and only sleeps with other woman’s husbands, and boyfriends, and lives to one up other women.
When Bruce suggests Crista poses as his lover to create the perfect bait, Bruce finds out he might’ve reeled in the wrong fish … um, woman. Hook, line, and sinker!
Excited to have her friend Bruce stay with her, Crista Johnson plans out their whole staycation. But, when he asks her to set him up with a woman she’s trying to un-friend from her life, Crista knows he’s asking the impossible. Janelle is a piranha and only sleeps with other woman’s husbands, and boyfriends, and lives to one up other women.
When Bruce suggests Crista poses as his lover to create the perfect bait, Bruce finds out he might’ve reeled in the wrong fish … um, woman. Hook, line, and sinker!
164 pages, ebook
First published April 21, 2014
105 people want to read
About the author
Debra Kayn
103 books1,438 followersDebra Kayn is published by Grand Central Publishing, Simon & Schuster Publishing, Carina Press - Harlequin Enterprises Limited, and is also a hybrid author who publishes independently. She's repped by FinePrint Literary Management and is a member of RWA. A multi-bestseller, she always has another book coming soon.
Believing everyone deserves to love and be loved, she takes the most unlikely characters and turns them into heroes and heroines.
She lives with her family in the Bitterroot Mountains of beautiful North Idaho, where she enjoys the outdoors, the four seasons, and the wild animals that gather in her yard.
Believing everyone deserves to love and be loved, she takes the most unlikely characters and turns them into heroes and heroines.
She lives with her family in the Bitterroot Mountains of beautiful North Idaho, where she enjoys the outdoors, the four seasons, and the wild animals that gather in her yard.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 10, 2015
Bruce is your typical male character: he thinks all he needs is his tournaments and a beautiful lady to spend his evenings with. Crista, on the other hand, does not think she needs anything more than what she has in front of her.
Read full review in the 2014/2015 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014/2015 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
April 20, 2014
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.com/201...
My rating: 4 of 5 ⭐️
Training for what she is planning to be her last Iron Man, triathlete Crista Johnson is looking forward to spending some time with her long time friend Bruce when he comes to spend his two weeks' vacation with her. In the meantime she'll have to fend off her annoyingly perfect supermodel neightbor, Janelle, who does nothing but criticize and belittle her. She'd rather not have her time with Bruce wasted with that nasty piece of work spoiling their two weeks.
When pro-bass fisherman, Bruce Coldwell arrives at Crista's appartment and bumps into her hot as hell neighbor, it is instant lust. The notorious womanizer has been without physical release for too long and he can see his two weeks' leave from the circuit shaping up nicely if he can relieve some of his pent up energy with the delectable Janelle. But given that the lady has a penchant for unavailable men, he is going to need Crista's cooperation.
Recognizing there is no stopping Bruce when his mind is set on something, Crista relents and agrees to pose as his lover to reel in Janelle. But when the ploy results in nibbles for Crista herself, Bruce finds he is more concerned about rescuing Crista's virtue than he is about spoiling Janelle's. The thought of another man with his Crista is not something that sits well with him.....
*****
A sizzling little number!!!
A fairly short novel writting in Debra Kayn's familiar style with a deliciously naughty bad boy with a golden heart, a no nonsense, no frills heroine and a chemistry that heats up the pages.....
Fun-loving Bruce is a love 'em and leave 'em bon vivant. His profession has him on the road travelling almost constantly and his lifestyle reflects that, but lately he has been thinking about settling down some. The transient life and the nameless, faceless bodies in his bed every night is becoming old. When the truth of what has been in front of him hits him, it hits him hard.
The more serious and consciencious Crista has always focused more on her training, her sport, than playing around. The physical demands require a very strict regimen and a relationship, or even frequent one night stands just don't fit into that. Besides, she has always been seen as more 'one of the guys' than a romantic interest. At least, that's what she thinks.
Their perception of the other is broken through in one instant, surprisingly, leaving them slightly stunned by the impact. The resulting fire that ignites is beyond expectations.
✨A fast, fun and fiery hot read!!✨
**Copy provided in return for an honest review.**
My rating: 4 of 5 ⭐️
Training for what she is planning to be her last Iron Man, triathlete Crista Johnson is looking forward to spending some time with her long time friend Bruce when he comes to spend his two weeks' vacation with her. In the meantime she'll have to fend off her annoyingly perfect supermodel neightbor, Janelle, who does nothing but criticize and belittle her. She'd rather not have her time with Bruce wasted with that nasty piece of work spoiling their two weeks.
When pro-bass fisherman, Bruce Coldwell arrives at Crista's appartment and bumps into her hot as hell neighbor, it is instant lust. The notorious womanizer has been without physical release for too long and he can see his two weeks' leave from the circuit shaping up nicely if he can relieve some of his pent up energy with the delectable Janelle. But given that the lady has a penchant for unavailable men, he is going to need Crista's cooperation.
Recognizing there is no stopping Bruce when his mind is set on something, Crista relents and agrees to pose as his lover to reel in Janelle. But when the ploy results in nibbles for Crista herself, Bruce finds he is more concerned about rescuing Crista's virtue than he is about spoiling Janelle's. The thought of another man with his Crista is not something that sits well with him.....
*****
A sizzling little number!!!
A fairly short novel writting in Debra Kayn's familiar style with a deliciously naughty bad boy with a golden heart, a no nonsense, no frills heroine and a chemistry that heats up the pages.....
Fun-loving Bruce is a love 'em and leave 'em bon vivant. His profession has him on the road travelling almost constantly and his lifestyle reflects that, but lately he has been thinking about settling down some. The transient life and the nameless, faceless bodies in his bed every night is becoming old. When the truth of what has been in front of him hits him, it hits him hard.
The more serious and consciencious Crista has always focused more on her training, her sport, than playing around. The physical demands require a very strict regimen and a relationship, or even frequent one night stands just don't fit into that. Besides, she has always been seen as more 'one of the guys' than a romantic interest. At least, that's what she thinks.
Their perception of the other is broken through in one instant, surprisingly, leaving them slightly stunned by the impact. The resulting fire that ignites is beyond expectations.
✨A fast, fun and fiery hot read!!✨
**Copy provided in return for an honest review.**
April 22, 2014
This is the last in the Playing for Hearts series. I have only read a couple of them so I feel they can all be read as stand alone books. In this one we have professional fisherman Bruce Coldwell and athlete Crista Johnson. Bruce and Crista have been best friends for a long time and when he comes for to stay for 2 weeks she's got plans for what they can do. This all gets blown to bits when he asks her to hook him up with her bitchy gorgeous supermodel next door neighbor. She's been tolerating Janelle her neighbor for the past 2 years she's lived there even though the woman is constantly putting her down and blatantly goes after every married or taken man she sees. After several attempts at setting Bruce up with Janelle and her blowing hot and cold he starts to change his mind about Janelle especially after he sees how she treats Crista. Suddenly he's seeing a different Crista one he never let himself think about before. This is a quick paced read. Bruce and Crista have to find their way through this new level in their relationship. Risking their friendship for the possibility of something more. New territory for both but also Crista has some insecurities about herself she has to work through. It was fun to see Bruce have to slow down and really think about what he's doing with Crista and for Crista to really figure out she's worth it and can compete with any woman out there for the man she loves. This book also has a wrap up with all the character from the previous book. That can be a bit confusing if you have not read the other books but didn't bother me. I never knew fishing could be so sexy!!
March 18, 2014
I'm so excited it's Bruce and Crista's turn, why? Because they're bada** and I loved them like hardcore! Bruce they boy is totally something else, "yeah." He glanced down at her. "You know, wiggle your a**." I mean you can tell Crista has some self confidence issues, "not supermodel nice though. Janelle gave one look to Brady, and he was all over her; I wasn't even a memory," she muttered. "I can't compete with someone who looks like her. I'm too much of a tomboy." Bruce even in the heat of passion the boy is all about protecting, "yeah, sweetheart. I need to protect you." he said. Sh**. She turned her head and scanned the room. Where was the last place she had sex? Had she ever bought condoms? Why couldn't she think?" I mean even in her sleeping form Crista can tempt her man, "Crista sighed in her sleep, stretched her leg, and when she was done, pulled her leg up higher until the inside of her thigh settled on is di**. The warmth and pressure was enough to set him off, and he hardened." Crista also knows when to give props, when props are due, "also, you might want to continue being the bada** boyfriend who punches other men in the face for hurting my feelings." She lifted her chin and put her lips on his ear. "That's really hot." I'm really sad to see this series end, but I'm so glad it went out with a bang!
April 23, 2014
4 Stars
Crista and Bruce have been best friends for years. They understand each other and the demands of their life styles. Something about this visit makes them see each other in a different light, and realizing they might be meant for each other.
Crista is a tri-athlete, and I enjoyed this different type of character. Even though she has friends who are female Crista feels rather inadequate next to her supermodel neighbor. Bruce is a professional competitive Bass fisherman, and at first is taken with the supermodel friend, but slowly realizes Crista is what he has been missing in his life.
The plot was short and no major conflicts that had you doubting they would end up together. This is the last in a series; I myself have read no other books in the series but didn't find myself lost. I do think the enjoyment would have been higher if I had read the others though.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
Crista and Bruce have been best friends for years. They understand each other and the demands of their life styles. Something about this visit makes them see each other in a different light, and realizing they might be meant for each other.
Crista is a tri-athlete, and I enjoyed this different type of character. Even though she has friends who are female Crista feels rather inadequate next to her supermodel neighbor. Bruce is a professional competitive Bass fisherman, and at first is taken with the supermodel friend, but slowly realizes Crista is what he has been missing in his life.
The plot was short and no major conflicts that had you doubting they would end up together. This is the last in a series; I myself have read no other books in the series but didn't find myself lost. I do think the enjoyment would have been higher if I had read the others though.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
September 3, 2014
In Surprisingly by Debra Kayn, Crista Johnson and Bruce Coldwell have been best friends since the day her heel broke on the street and he carried her all the way to her destination. The fact that they both love sports and he is a world-class pro bass fisherman while she is cyclist makes them even closer. Now that Bruce is coming to stay with her before his next bass fishing contest, Crista cannot be any happier and already has many plans for their staycation.
But things are not always that simple, for Crista hates her neighbor Janelle, who cannot let a moment go by when she is not putting Crista down for her appearance or her dedication to exercise and sweating. So when Bruce shows up and runs into Janelle, then asks Crista to set them up, she knows that he is asking for a lot. Read More...
But things are not always that simple, for Crista hates her neighbor Janelle, who cannot let a moment go by when she is not putting Crista down for her appearance or her dedication to exercise and sweating. So when Bruce shows up and runs into Janelle, then asks Crista to set them up, she knows that he is asking for a lot. Read More...
March 18, 2014
A copy was provided by the author for an honest review. I love the Playing for Hearts series. They have all been fun and hot reads. I really enjoyed reading Surprisingly.
Surprisingly was a very funny, fast read with a few minutes of emotional turmoil. I grew up with a father whom hunted and fished. I despise all things hunting/fishing because of this fact. Debra has done such a kick-ass job of writing Bruce that I am actually hot for a fisherman! Well done.
I was a little thrown off in the beginning of Surprisingly, I had to stop and reread the book description. I read it right, . I had my doubts about whether or not I would approve of Bruce after the whole pretend to be my girl so I can get your neighbor in bed bit. Bruce won Crista and me over.
Surprisingly was a very funny, fast read with a few minutes of emotional turmoil. I grew up with a father whom hunted and fished. I despise all things hunting/fishing because of this fact. Debra has done such a kick-ass job of writing Bruce that I am actually hot for a fisherman! Well done.
I was a little thrown off in the beginning of Surprisingly, I had to stop and reread the book description. I read it right, . I had my doubts about whether or not I would approve of Bruce after the whole pretend to be my girl so I can get your neighbor in bed bit. Bruce won Crista and me over.
April 8, 2014
***ARC from NetGalley in Exchange for an honest review***
Maybe I needed to have read the previous books in the Playing for Hearts series in order to enjoy this book. I could not for the life of me relate to either Bruce or Crista and I found myself so confused with all the other characters around them that felt under-explained. Janelle was so stereo-typically written as an antagonist bitch that she came off like a caricature. I felt that the characters needed to be developed more, given more back-story/more personality. The whole thing kind of felt too contrived. Sorry.
Maybe I needed to have read the previous books in the Playing for Hearts series in order to enjoy this book. I could not for the life of me relate to either Bruce or Crista and I found myself so confused with all the other characters around them that felt under-explained. Janelle was so stereo-typically written as an antagonist bitch that she came off like a caricature. I felt that the characters needed to be developed more, given more back-story/more personality. The whole thing kind of felt too contrived. Sorry.
November 10, 2016
This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. This book has been provided by the author with no expectations and that in no way influences my review.
March 23, 2014
Loved it! A copy was provided by the author for a honest review. This was a sweet and sexy read. Loved that Bruce and Crista were best friends before the romance begin. I would recommend any of Debra Kayn's books. They make you hate for them to end and wanting more.
January 27, 2016
Strong characters. Not a cliffhanger.
May 24, 2018
Crista was an interesting character through the first four books but we didn't learn a lot about Bruce in them. I pictured her as much less feminine in appearance but have learned it is not the case! Bruce and Crista have been best friends for many years and its almost no surprise the story goes in the direction it does.
We learn that insecurities plague even the strongest woman so it was great Crista overcame, to a certain degree, her own and went for her HEA!
Sad the series is done but really enjoyed it!
We learn that insecurities plague even the strongest woman so it was great Crista overcame, to a certain degree, her own and went for her HEA!
Sad the series is done but really enjoyed it!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews