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He brought my filthiest fantasies to life. Now he’s determined to make my wildest dreams come true—whether I want him to or not.
It was just supposed to be a one time thing. One reckless indulgence, living out my deepest, dirtiest fantasies at The Playground Club. Like letting the club playboy pretend to breed me in every way we could dream up.
Only, it wasn’t pretend.
Marshall says he’s all in. With me, our baby, and the future I’d never planned on. He makes himself available to me in every possible way—and I mean every way. Any demand, need, desire I have, no matter how wicked or depraved, he meets it.
But the more he talks of our future together, the more I find myself retreating behind my Ice Queen armor, shielding my heart from the only man capable of melting it…
Or shattering me beyond repair.
It was just supposed to be a one time thing. One reckless indulgence, living out my deepest, dirtiest fantasies at The Playground Club. Like letting the club playboy pretend to breed me in every way we could dream up.
Only, it wasn’t pretend.
Marshall says he’s all in. With me, our baby, and the future I’d never planned on. He makes himself available to me in every possible way—and I mean every way. Any demand, need, desire I have, no matter how wicked or depraved, he meets it.
But the more he talks of our future together, the more I find myself retreating behind my Ice Queen armor, shielding my heart from the only man capable of melting it…
Or shattering me beyond repair.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2024
189 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Elliot
7 books215 followersShannon Elliot resides in Houston, TX with her fur baby and writes romance that represents her readers whenever she's not at the dog park dog or curled up with a good book. Evidenced by her background in theatre, she is drawn to story-telling and the creative process. Shannon believes that diverse and inclusive stories shouldn't be the exception, they should be the rule. Happily ever after is for everyone and she aims to write romances that reflect her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 16, 2024
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- if you want a big emotional journey along with your spice/kink, Shannon Elliot is definitely an author you should check out.
I’m not normally into the golden retriever type MMC, but as someone who has severe trust/family issues like Elsie I absolutely loved the way Marshall was throughout this whole book. He was attentive and reassuring, loving while not over the top, and I really enjoyed getting to see their relationship develop.
While fiction is never a guideline for actual kink and sex, I do think Elliot’s books are some of the most genuine portrayal/representation I’ve read.
Highlights:
- Romance: MF
- Pregnancy
- Reformed playboy
- Free use
- Black cat x golden retriever
- Age gap (she’s older)
- Plus size FMC
- Pansexual MMC
- Bisexual FMC
Note: I received an ARC from the author. Decision to read/review was my own. Opinion is my own.
I’m not normally into the golden retriever type MMC, but as someone who has severe trust/family issues like Elsie I absolutely loved the way Marshall was throughout this whole book. He was attentive and reassuring, loving while not over the top, and I really enjoyed getting to see their relationship develop.
While fiction is never a guideline for actual kink and sex, I do think Elliot’s books are some of the most genuine portrayal/representation I’ve read.
Highlights:
- Romance: MF
- Pregnancy
- Reformed playboy
- Free use
- Black cat x golden retriever
- Age gap (she’s older)
- Plus size FMC
- Pansexual MMC
- Bisexual FMC
Note: I received an ARC from the author. Decision to read/review was my own. Opinion is my own.
September 24, 2024
This was such a cute book! I started this because I saw the words "Free Use" and when it comes to a book about free use, I'm going to read it. I stayed because this was such a sweet story on top of being spicy. The FMC, Elsie, has one night at The Playground that leads to her in a doctor's office a few weeks later hearing the words, "You're pregnant" ( 🙌🏾 may those words never be said to me. AMEN) this leads to the funniest, spiciest, and cute story. Marshall, the MMC, would most likely be the man i would want to be the father of my child. He immediately steps up the second he finds out and he sees her. Her friends tell him about her and he realizes his own things about her and how she wants to be loved and cared for vs how she presents how she does. Both have issues with their fathers and I think the way it's talked about is so healthy (maybe not the whole time but in the end) getting Elsie to open up is hard but Marshall does it and wants to get to the bottom of things. Honestly Elsie reminds me of myself and I'm not ready to unpack that so let's move on to the spice, shall we?
Both Marshall and Elsie fight for dominance at least in the bedroom and that's kind of proven by the honorifics that's are being used during spicy time. I love that they're both switches and do good at being switches because it lets them get what they need or want out of any spicy situation. When Elsie wants to be free to do whatever, then Marshall is in charge and when Elsie asks for what she wants then she is the queen of her castle.
I truly loved this story and the dynamic between the two. I tried to write a shorter review but the more I read and went back to get points for the review the more I saw myself in Elsie and the more I was screaming "it should be me" in my head 😭
Thank you to Shannon for allowing me to ARC read!
Both Marshall and Elsie fight for dominance at least in the bedroom and that's kind of proven by the honorifics that's are being used during spicy time. I love that they're both switches and do good at being switches because it lets them get what they need or want out of any spicy situation. When Elsie wants to be free to do whatever, then Marshall is in charge and when Elsie asks for what she wants then she is the queen of her castle.
I truly loved this story and the dynamic between the two. I tried to write a shorter review but the more I read and went back to get points for the review the more I saw myself in Elsie and the more I was screaming "it should be me" in my head 😭
Thank you to Shannon for allowing me to ARC read!
September 17, 2024
Received as an ARC.
🩷 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
💜 Planned pregnancy
🩷 Blue collar pansexual MMC
💜 Millionaire plus size bisexual FMC
🩷 Reverse age gap
💜 Opposites attract
🩷 Insta love - He falls first
💜 Forced proximity
I’m not usually one for the pregnancy trope but as this one was very much planned and about a couple TTC I thought I’d give it a shot and boy was I glad I did. This was an emotional journey with a side of smut from start to finish.
I felt both main characters were very well written and had that rawness of a quality that made them feel even more human than other characters you usually come across who are all fluffiness and light. There was real depth to them both and for that I’m thankful.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even if it did give me an emotions headache 😂
🩷 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
💜 Planned pregnancy
🩷 Blue collar pansexual MMC
💜 Millionaire plus size bisexual FMC
🩷 Reverse age gap
💜 Opposites attract
🩷 Insta love - He falls first
💜 Forced proximity
I’m not usually one for the pregnancy trope but as this one was very much planned and about a couple TTC I thought I’d give it a shot and boy was I glad I did. This was an emotional journey with a side of smut from start to finish.
I felt both main characters were very well written and had that rawness of a quality that made them feel even more human than other characters you usually come across who are all fluffiness and light. There was real depth to them both and for that I’m thankful.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even if it did give me an emotions headache 😂
September 26, 2025
This book was such a pleasant surprise! I picked it up for the “free use” angle but stayed for the sweet, spicy story. Elsie has a wild night at The Playground that quickly turns into a pregnancy scare and Marshall, the MMC, steps up without hesitation. Their dynamic is adorable and realistic, especially as they both work through father-related issues and learn how to love each other authentically. The spice was fantastic too! Elsie and Marshall both switch beautifully, which keeps things exciting and balanced. I loved how their intimacy reflected their need to both give and receive care. Elsie reminded me a little too much of myself (not unpacking that today), but it made me connect with her even more. Overall, a cute, steamy, and surprisingly heartfelt read.
July 28, 2025
3.5 adored them together
December 9, 2024
Never won't read a book advertised as a free use breeding kink book! It was way cuter and sweeter than I imagined it would be.
September 11, 2024
PLS READ TWs and be mindful of chapter 35 as their is mention of cancer and dying
Shannon Elliott's USED is an emotionally charged, raw, and beautifully complex journey that delves into the intimate struggles of two individuals brought together by chance, desire, and an unexpected pregnancy. This isn't just your typical romance—it's a story of vulnerability, independence, and the complicated nature of love.
The heroine, Elsie, has achieved everything she's ever wanted in life, except for one deeply personal goal: becoming a mother. Her journey to motherhood has been filled with heartbreak, failed attempts, and the weight of feeling alone in the pursuit of this dream. When she steps into The Playground Club—a place where desires come to life—she doesn’t anticipate that her greatest wish will finally be granted. But after a night with Marshall, the charismatic, optimistic, and hopeful man she meets, her life is turned upside down when she finds herself pregnant.
The real heart of the story lies in the emotional push and pull between Elsie and Marshall. Marshall is the embodiment of hope and love, with his dreams of a happy family and home filled with children. He embraces the idea of parenthood and wants to build a life with Elsie, but for her, it's not that simple. She's fiercely independent, self-sufficient, and terrified of giving in to the notion of a picture-perfect family. The tension between her desire to stand on her own and the new life growing inside her is palpable, making for a deeply layered and engaging narrative.
What makes USED stand out is the way Shannon Elliott portrays the characters' emotional journeys. Elsie is a refreshingly real and complex heroine. She’s not your typical romance lead who falls easily into the arms of her knight in shining armor. Instead, she grapples with her fears, her past, and her vision of what her life should be. Marshall, on the other hand, is the perfect counterbalance—steady, warm, and ready to give everything, even when it means facing rejection.
The dynamic between them is filled with tension, but also moments of tenderness that will pull at your heartstrings. Their relationship isn’t easy, and Elliott doesn’t shy away from the messiness of it. There are no clear-cut solutions, but rather a journey of growth, compromise, and learning to trust again.
Elliott's writing is intimate, with a focus on character development that makes you feel deeply connected to both Elsie and Marshall. The story doesn’t just focus on their romance but also on the personal growth that comes from facing fears and embracing vulnerability. The challenges of pregnancy, the emotional ups and downs, and the struggle to reconcile one's own desires with the expectations of a relationship are all explored with sensitivity and realism.
In summary, USED is a compelling, heart-wrenching, and ultimately hopeful story about love, motherhood, and the battle between independence and vulnerability. Shannon Elliott crafts a nuanced romance that digs deep into the emotional struggles of her characters, making this book an unforgettable read. If you're looking for a story that explores the complexities of love and the unexpected turns life can take, USED is a must-read.
Shannon Elliott's USED is an emotionally charged, raw, and beautifully complex journey that delves into the intimate struggles of two individuals brought together by chance, desire, and an unexpected pregnancy. This isn't just your typical romance—it's a story of vulnerability, independence, and the complicated nature of love.
The heroine, Elsie, has achieved everything she's ever wanted in life, except for one deeply personal goal: becoming a mother. Her journey to motherhood has been filled with heartbreak, failed attempts, and the weight of feeling alone in the pursuit of this dream. When she steps into The Playground Club—a place where desires come to life—she doesn’t anticipate that her greatest wish will finally be granted. But after a night with Marshall, the charismatic, optimistic, and hopeful man she meets, her life is turned upside down when she finds herself pregnant.
The real heart of the story lies in the emotional push and pull between Elsie and Marshall. Marshall is the embodiment of hope and love, with his dreams of a happy family and home filled with children. He embraces the idea of parenthood and wants to build a life with Elsie, but for her, it's not that simple. She's fiercely independent, self-sufficient, and terrified of giving in to the notion of a picture-perfect family. The tension between her desire to stand on her own and the new life growing inside her is palpable, making for a deeply layered and engaging narrative.
What makes USED stand out is the way Shannon Elliott portrays the characters' emotional journeys. Elsie is a refreshingly real and complex heroine. She’s not your typical romance lead who falls easily into the arms of her knight in shining armor. Instead, she grapples with her fears, her past, and her vision of what her life should be. Marshall, on the other hand, is the perfect counterbalance—steady, warm, and ready to give everything, even when it means facing rejection.
The dynamic between them is filled with tension, but also moments of tenderness that will pull at your heartstrings. Their relationship isn’t easy, and Elliott doesn’t shy away from the messiness of it. There are no clear-cut solutions, but rather a journey of growth, compromise, and learning to trust again.
Elliott's writing is intimate, with a focus on character development that makes you feel deeply connected to both Elsie and Marshall. The story doesn’t just focus on their romance but also on the personal growth that comes from facing fears and embracing vulnerability. The challenges of pregnancy, the emotional ups and downs, and the struggle to reconcile one's own desires with the expectations of a relationship are all explored with sensitivity and realism.
In summary, USED is a compelling, heart-wrenching, and ultimately hopeful story about love, motherhood, and the battle between independence and vulnerability. Shannon Elliott crafts a nuanced romance that digs deep into the emotional struggles of her characters, making this book an unforgettable read. If you're looking for a story that explores the complexities of love and the unexpected turns life can take, USED is a must-read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2024
The Playground Club is where we go to relax and make our wildest dreams come true. The club has just about everything on offer, it's a resort, spa, and k!nk playground.
Elsie is a badass business owner and enjoys her time at The Playground Club. A chance encounter at the Playground Club has her life turning to a new chapter, one that she had wished for. However, with a complex background and her love of independence, she faces an unexpected decision. Admitting her love or continuing to be independent and alone.
Marshall works long hours on an oil rig and when he's home, enjoys The Playground Club and all it has to offer. His world is turned upside down when Elsie barges into his rented pool house and tells him news that has him running headfirst into a future that he dreamed of. The only hitch to his plan is a princess that is afraid of falling in love.
This book was a roller coaster of emotions. The excitement of Elsie finding she was pregnant, the fear when it was from a chance encounter instead of IVF, and the trepidation of letting someone into her life. Reading this journey of finding love and acceptance within herself was a great reminder that it's okay to stop and be vulnerable with those that we are "close" with. Her and Marshall showed their relationship that was full of playtime and the slow descent from scene partners to life partners. The constant consent was refreshing and it never felt like activities were forced.
I loved this book for all of it's ups and downs. The depth to each character made each moment of sadness, happiness, and fear grip my heart and make me feel for each scenario. Each character found a place in my heart making them feel like close friends. Seeing the characters from the first book come in at critical moments reminded me of the first book and the beauty of the communities created to protect and celebrate love.
Elsie is a badass business owner and enjoys her time at The Playground Club. A chance encounter at the Playground Club has her life turning to a new chapter, one that she had wished for. However, with a complex background and her love of independence, she faces an unexpected decision. Admitting her love or continuing to be independent and alone.
Marshall works long hours on an oil rig and when he's home, enjoys The Playground Club and all it has to offer. His world is turned upside down when Elsie barges into his rented pool house and tells him news that has him running headfirst into a future that he dreamed of. The only hitch to his plan is a princess that is afraid of falling in love.
This book was a roller coaster of emotions. The excitement of Elsie finding she was pregnant, the fear when it was from a chance encounter instead of IVF, and the trepidation of letting someone into her life. Reading this journey of finding love and acceptance within herself was a great reminder that it's okay to stop and be vulnerable with those that we are "close" with. Her and Marshall showed their relationship that was full of playtime and the slow descent from scene partners to life partners. The constant consent was refreshing and it never felt like activities were forced.
I loved this book for all of it's ups and downs. The depth to each character made each moment of sadness, happiness, and fear grip my heart and make me feel for each scenario. Each character found a place in my heart making them feel like close friends. Seeing the characters from the first book come in at critical moments reminded me of the first book and the beauty of the communities created to protect and celebrate love.
October 16, 2024
4⭐️ avoidant attachment with daddy issues? yeah this was made for me!
tropes: accidental pregnancy, he falls first, black cat x golden retriever | high steam | digital
characters
🩶 Elise was a great main character. I totally understood and love her and loved seeing her walls come down. It was a long road to get there but they felt earner as we learned about her past and why she had these walls up in the first place.
🩶 Marshall was a good male lead. I struggled with his overbearing nature at first but it grew on me with how sincere he was and how all in he was from the very beginning. He was so kind and thoughtful and I was absolutely obsessed!
favorite bits
🖤 Elise and Marshall had a lot of issues to overcome but I liked that there wasn't any additional plot lines causing more drama, just realistic issues of two people in budding relationship with a baby coming and lots of baggage. The ups and downs of their relationship wasn't overdone and I completely understood both of their characters and why they reacted in certain ways. There was a lot of hot and cold but it never felt annoying or just for plot sake.
🖤 I loved the moments with Marshall's family and how loving and accepting they were. I appreciated the inclusion of Marshall's culture and how important and beautiful it is throughout the book.
🖤 I liked the conversations about choice and reproductive rights. Lots of suprise pregnancy books skip over discussions of choice and abortion but this book challenged and discussed it outright.
final thoughts:
I really loved this book! I've wanted to read something by Elliot for a while and this one really caught my eye!
Check out my socials
tropes: accidental pregnancy, he falls first, black cat x golden retriever | high steam | digital
characters
🩶 Elise was a great main character. I totally understood and love her and loved seeing her walls come down. It was a long road to get there but they felt earner as we learned about her past and why she had these walls up in the first place.
🩶 Marshall was a good male lead. I struggled with his overbearing nature at first but it grew on me with how sincere he was and how all in he was from the very beginning. He was so kind and thoughtful and I was absolutely obsessed!
favorite bits
🖤 Elise and Marshall had a lot of issues to overcome but I liked that there wasn't any additional plot lines causing more drama, just realistic issues of two people in budding relationship with a baby coming and lots of baggage. The ups and downs of their relationship wasn't overdone and I completely understood both of their characters and why they reacted in certain ways. There was a lot of hot and cold but it never felt annoying or just for plot sake.
🖤 I loved the moments with Marshall's family and how loving and accepting they were. I appreciated the inclusion of Marshall's culture and how important and beautiful it is throughout the book.
🖤 I liked the conversations about choice and reproductive rights. Lots of suprise pregnancy books skip over discussions of choice and abortion but this book challenged and discussed it outright.
final thoughts:
I really loved this book! I've wanted to read something by Elliot for a while and this one really caught my eye!
Check out my socials
September 9, 2024
Another wow from her. This one wasn't as much as a tear jerker as the first book in this series, but chapter 33 started it.
Elsie and Marshall, a unicorn, a dragon, and a pregnancy. What can go wrong? Elsie is an uptight ice queen and Marshall sounds like a sex god to me. Damn he sounds hot.
They have their issues and it takes a long time to get those issues figured out. But that's a good thing about this. You actually go through all the issues and it's not a well. I'm having this problem then poof. It's fixed. She actually has to figure out her issues. He has to figure out his problems and together they get there. And it plays out through the whole entire book which is nice. You get to get into their brains and figure it out with them and watch them mature and learn and grow.
Why did I give this a five cuz one of my things about reading is I want to be able to laugh, cry, yell and become engaged with the characters in the book and I got there.
Hopefully I've given you enough to wet your whistle so you want to read this but you got to read it to figure it out. Oh, and if you're on antidepressants, take a pill before you start reading.
Elsie and Marshall, a unicorn, a dragon, and a pregnancy. What can go wrong? Elsie is an uptight ice queen and Marshall sounds like a sex god to me. Damn he sounds hot.
They have their issues and it takes a long time to get those issues figured out. But that's a good thing about this. You actually go through all the issues and it's not a well. I'm having this problem then poof. It's fixed. She actually has to figure out her issues. He has to figure out his problems and together they get there. And it plays out through the whole entire book which is nice. You get to get into their brains and figure it out with them and watch them mature and learn and grow.
Why did I give this a five cuz one of my things about reading is I want to be able to laugh, cry, yell and become engaged with the characters in the book and I got there.
Hopefully I've given you enough to wet your whistle so you want to read this but you got to read it to figure it out. Oh, and if you're on antidepressants, take a pill before you start reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2024
Another excellent example of curvy girl representation in romance and how much they deserve love. I found my own life reflected in a few aspects of Elsie's life, I don't usually have triggers in books, not a lot phases me but this story hit me a lot more emotionally than they usually do.
Not exactly your typical "one night stand" "accidental pregnancy" romance, but it's so much better. As a woman who has struggled with infertility myself, this one hit home but also gives me hope that I'm not hopeless... Yes I am fully aware this is fiction, but my heart enjoyed the thought all the same.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Elsie and Marshall, even though Elsie was resistant to his affection not his body. He fell first, which is a trope I love. Elsie wasn't oblivious just unwilling to accept the possibility.
Overall and excellent spicy read and a wonderful connection to Bound and the Playground Club.
5/5 stars
4/5 chili peppers
Not exactly your typical "one night stand" "accidental pregnancy" romance, but it's so much better. As a woman who has struggled with infertility myself, this one hit home but also gives me hope that I'm not hopeless... Yes I am fully aware this is fiction, but my heart enjoyed the thought all the same.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Elsie and Marshall, even though Elsie was resistant to his affection not his body. He fell first, which is a trope I love. Elsie wasn't oblivious just unwilling to accept the possibility.
Overall and excellent spicy read and a wonderful connection to Bound and the Playground Club.
5/5 stars
4/5 chili peppers
September 13, 2024
USED 🤰🏻ARC Review
Another installment of The Playground Club series is here!! I’m always a sucker for books where her pet name is princess 🥹 and Used is no exception!
Honestly, I kept having to force myself to put it down so I didn’t finish it too fast because I didn’t want it to end! It was THAT good! Perfect balance between being deliciously smutty and emotional, all in one 😭. (Yes, I cried more than once 😭)
𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗟𝗟: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗘: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗛𝗘𝗔: 💖
𝗧𝗬𝗣𝗘: Standalone, part of a interconnected series (The Playground Club)
𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞: n/a
𝗟𝗚𝗕𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗣: 🏳️🌈 (bisexual FMC, pansexual MMC)
𝗪𝗛𝗬-𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗦𝗘: 🚫
𝗞!𝗡𝗞𝗦: breeding, free use
𝗧𝗪𝘀: infertility (failed IUI)
𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦:
🖤 planned (but also accidental) pregnancy
🖤 black cat x golden retriever
🖤 age gap (5 yrs • she’s older)
🖤 breeding kink
🖤 4’11” plus size, ceo fmc
🖤 6’5” (reformed) playboy mmc
Normally, I wouldn’t consider 5 yrs as age gap — but given that they are both at very different points in their lives, it def has the vibe of the age gap trope.
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: 𝙸 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚎𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚗 𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚢 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚍 𝚋𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚢 𝚑𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠.
Another installment of The Playground Club series is here!! I’m always a sucker for books where her pet name is princess 🥹 and Used is no exception!
Honestly, I kept having to force myself to put it down so I didn’t finish it too fast because I didn’t want it to end! It was THAT good! Perfect balance between being deliciously smutty and emotional, all in one 😭. (Yes, I cried more than once 😭)
𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗟𝗟: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗘: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗛𝗘𝗔: 💖
𝗧𝗬𝗣𝗘: Standalone, part of a interconnected series (The Playground Club)
𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞: n/a
𝗟𝗚𝗕𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗣: 🏳️🌈 (bisexual FMC, pansexual MMC)
𝗪𝗛𝗬-𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗦𝗘: 🚫
𝗞!𝗡𝗞𝗦: breeding, free use
𝗧𝗪𝘀: infertility (failed IUI)
𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦:
🖤 planned (but also accidental) pregnancy
🖤 black cat x golden retriever
🖤 age gap (5 yrs • she’s older)
🖤 breeding kink
🖤 4’11” plus size, ceo fmc
🖤 6’5” (reformed) playboy mmc
Normally, I wouldn’t consider 5 yrs as age gap — but given that they are both at very different points in their lives, it def has the vibe of the age gap trope.
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: 𝙸 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚎𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚊𝚗 𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚌𝚘𝚙𝚢 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚍 𝚋𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚢 𝚑𝚘𝚗𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠.
September 12, 2024
What a perfect story! Elise definitely is hot and cold and Marshall seems like a great guy. Meeting at the Playground an adult club, Elise is not prepared for what happens from a one night stand. When that one night turns into becoming pregnant, she has to prepare herself for what happens next.
When Marshall finds out, he definitely steps up in my opinion. He tries in every way to show Elise that he will be there for their baby. Their chemistry is off the charts! Elise and the way her childhood was, wait til you find out about that, isn’t so sure Marshall is who she wants to be with though. Marshall is definitely persistent and not letting up even though Elise tries to push him away time and time again. To me he is a good man who Elise should give a chance to. What will happen in the end? Will Elise decide that she deserves a happy ending with Marshall?
When Marshall finds out, he definitely steps up in my opinion. He tries in every way to show Elise that he will be there for their baby. Their chemistry is off the charts! Elise and the way her childhood was, wait til you find out about that, isn’t so sure Marshall is who she wants to be with though. Marshall is definitely persistent and not letting up even though Elise tries to push him away time and time again. To me he is a good man who Elise should give a chance to. What will happen in the end? Will Elise decide that she deserves a happy ending with Marshall?
September 14, 2024
This is book 2 in The Playground Club series. I really enjoyed book 1 and book 2 was just as good.
Marshall is a Dragon at the Playground Club.
Elsie is a Tech CEO and is trying to have a baby on her own using IUI (Intrauterine Insemination).
They meet at the club and paid attention to each other at the Bachelor and Bachelorette party. They did use protection to prevent said pregnancy. She is not sure what to do, she wants the baby and the baby only. She has no plans for the father to be in the picture.
Marshall has had a crush on Elsie for awhile and when she tells him she is pregnant he is excited. He moves himself into Elsie's apartment without her approval.
Will Marshall get Elsie to fall in love with him? Will she fight her past issues to let Marshall in her heart? Let's finish reading to find out!
Marshall is a Dragon at the Playground Club.
Elsie is a Tech CEO and is trying to have a baby on her own using IUI (Intrauterine Insemination).
They meet at the club and paid attention to each other at the Bachelor and Bachelorette party. They did use protection to prevent said pregnancy. She is not sure what to do, she wants the baby and the baby only. She has no plans for the father to be in the picture.
Marshall has had a crush on Elsie for awhile and when she tells him she is pregnant he is excited. He moves himself into Elsie's apartment without her approval.
Will Marshall get Elsie to fall in love with him? Will she fight her past issues to let Marshall in her heart? Let's finish reading to find out!
September 21, 2024
🩷 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
💜 Planned pregnancy
🩷 Blue collar pansexual MMC
💜 Millionaire plus size bisexual FMC
🩷 Reverse age gap
💜 Opposites attract
🩷 Insta love - He falls first
💜 Forced proximity
So I love a good pregnancy troupe and this one definitely didn’t disappoint at all. This was an emotional journey with a side of smut from start to finish. And I was thoroughly pleased with this book from start to finish.
To me I felt like both main characters were very well written and had that rawness type of quality that made them feel even more human than just words on a piece of paper. The characters also come across as being full of fluffines and light. There was real depth to them both and for that I really enjoyed and I was able to picture them both in my mind completely.
💜 Planned pregnancy
🩷 Blue collar pansexual MMC
💜 Millionaire plus size bisexual FMC
🩷 Reverse age gap
💜 Opposites attract
🩷 Insta love - He falls first
💜 Forced proximity
So I love a good pregnancy troupe and this one definitely didn’t disappoint at all. This was an emotional journey with a side of smut from start to finish. And I was thoroughly pleased with this book from start to finish.
To me I felt like both main characters were very well written and had that rawness type of quality that made them feel even more human than just words on a piece of paper. The characters also come across as being full of fluffines and light. There was real depth to them both and for that I really enjoyed and I was able to picture them both in my mind completely.
September 24, 2024
I am almost certain I've said it before, but if I haven't, I'm saying it now: Shannon Elliot is a queen when it comes to writing queer (and plus sized) representation! The second book in the Playground series is no exception to that, even though our main characters are straight passing.
Like her other books, this is an emotional journey. Elsie and Marshall go through so many ups and downs, learning to navigate and trust their feelings and thoughts. I loved going on this nine month journey with them and seeing how each of them grew (even if their emotions made mine tail spin sometimes).
This is an interconnected standalone and works awesome if you have read the other books in the series, but it absolutely isn't necessary to have read them first.
I received this as an ARC. All thoughts and feelings are my own.
Like her other books, this is an emotional journey. Elsie and Marshall go through so many ups and downs, learning to navigate and trust their feelings and thoughts. I loved going on this nine month journey with them and seeing how each of them grew (even if their emotions made mine tail spin sometimes).
This is an interconnected standalone and works awesome if you have read the other books in the series, but it absolutely isn't necessary to have read them first.
I received this as an ARC. All thoughts and feelings are my own.
January 15, 2026
least favorite FMC
Elsie might be my least favorite FMC ever. She’s an older than 29 year old woman (I don’t think we ever got an exact age but she sure did stress over Marshall being 29) who acts like a spoiled preteen. She’s “never been shown love” so that somehow excuses her for steamrolling Marshall’s feelings and throwing fits until she gets her personal space and decides she’s ready for whatever she wants. Then poor, sappy, head over heels in love with her Marshall has to (and happily does) go along with whatever she wants.
She doesn’t like him working on an oil rig and demands he quits, but she can go on an oil rig for her job and he has to deal with the same worry and stress she had for him.
And that’s just 1 example of many similar situations though out the book.
Elsie might be my least favorite FMC ever. She’s an older than 29 year old woman (I don’t think we ever got an exact age but she sure did stress over Marshall being 29) who acts like a spoiled preteen. She’s “never been shown love” so that somehow excuses her for steamrolling Marshall’s feelings and throwing fits until she gets her personal space and decides she’s ready for whatever she wants. Then poor, sappy, head over heels in love with her Marshall has to (and happily does) go along with whatever she wants.
She doesn’t like him working on an oil rig and demands he quits, but she can go on an oil rig for her job and he has to deal with the same worry and stress she had for him.
And that’s just 1 example of many similar situations though out the book.
September 16, 2024
Wow so good
This is my second book by this author and boy am I quickly falling for her writing. This is about Elsie and Marshall. Elsie has her life together, she has a great job and enjoys her time at The Playground occasionally too. Elsie has been wanting to get pregnant on her own but hasn't had much luck. When she decides to finally spend an evening with Marshall at The Playground, she has a wild night with him but when she finds out she's pregnant and it's his, she panics.
Marshall is known as a playboy because he sleeps around but he has wanted Elsie for awhile now. When he finds out she's pregnant, he decides to be there for her and win her.
This is such am emotional book but in the best way. Don't want to give any more away, just read this book.
This is my second book by this author and boy am I quickly falling for her writing. This is about Elsie and Marshall. Elsie has her life together, she has a great job and enjoys her time at The Playground occasionally too. Elsie has been wanting to get pregnant on her own but hasn't had much luck. When she decides to finally spend an evening with Marshall at The Playground, she has a wild night with him but when she finds out she's pregnant and it's his, she panics.
Marshall is known as a playboy because he sleeps around but he has wanted Elsie for awhile now. When he finds out she's pregnant, he decides to be there for her and win her.
This is such am emotional book but in the best way. Don't want to give any more away, just read this book.
September 17, 2024
Book 2 to "The Playground Club Series"!
I loved "Bound" and was excited to see "Used" was added to the series. Shannon does an incredible job with her storylines and navigating all sides of the "Playground in a beautiful and organic way!
I fell in love with both Elsie and Marshall in this story. Elsie is a very independent woman who isn't looking to fall in love, but a chance meeting with Marshall leads us down an emotional rollercoaster of a read as they both open up and grow individually with one another. While there is spice in it, I really enjoyed the emotional pull of the book more, as it really entwined both Elsie's and Marshall's story nicely. I hope Shannon continues the series!
I loved "Bound" and was excited to see "Used" was added to the series. Shannon does an incredible job with her storylines and navigating all sides of the "Playground in a beautiful and organic way!
I fell in love with both Elsie and Marshall in this story. Elsie is a very independent woman who isn't looking to fall in love, but a chance meeting with Marshall leads us down an emotional rollercoaster of a read as they both open up and grow individually with one another. While there is spice in it, I really enjoyed the emotional pull of the book more, as it really entwined both Elsie's and Marshall's story nicely. I hope Shannon continues the series!
September 19, 2024
This book. Not gonna lie, I’m not usually a fan of the unexpected pregnancy trope, but at the same time it wasn’t really unexpected for her… just the him who ended up being the dad. 😂 But I think since it was something that was just done right in the beginning, I loved it. I loved see Marshall and Elsie navigate this new relations of theirs. Marshall is the perfect boyfriend and it was so nice to see him give Elsie the time and space she needed while she figured it all out too. It was also just amazing to see Elsie’s growth throughout. Also just loved getting to go back to The Playground (and all the scenes that came with that 🥵🌶️🌶️🌶️). Really just an amazing book all around. Thank you for the ARC Shannon! 🖤
October 4, 2024
I thought this was a really cute book! I love the different aspects of relationships in the book. I felt like everyone was represented.
Elsie and Marshall were the most adorable couple! I LOVED the banter between them and the power exchanges were hot!!! Marshall was one heck of a patient man! But I love how he was all in from the beginning and didn’t back down no matter how many times Elsie got scared off!
This was just a super chill book. It was kind of a relaxing read for me while still being spicy as heck!!! I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Elsie and Marshall were the most adorable couple! I LOVED the banter between them and the power exchanges were hot!!! Marshall was one heck of a patient man! But I love how he was all in from the beginning and didn’t back down no matter how many times Elsie got scared off!
This was just a super chill book. It was kind of a relaxing read for me while still being spicy as heck!!! I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 27, 2025
A Good Read
This book definitely runs the gauntlet on your emotions and puts the D in Drama. It's definitely imaginative, from the special circumstances of conception to the unique and interesting businesses and all the characters' mixed personalities. It's a good read for fans of Pregnancy Romance, Age-Gap Romance, Drama and Mild Erotica. There are some typos in need of editing, but they don't ruin the story and even though it's a part of a series, it reads well as a standalone story.
This book definitely runs the gauntlet on your emotions and puts the D in Drama. It's definitely imaginative, from the special circumstances of conception to the unique and interesting businesses and all the characters' mixed personalities. It's a good read for fans of Pregnancy Romance, Age-Gap Romance, Drama and Mild Erotica. There are some typos in need of editing, but they don't ruin the story and even though it's a part of a series, it reads well as a standalone story.
September 16, 2024
I wish I had all the words to say how much I loved this book. Being a daughter of a father who didn't know how to love right and who had to be the parent most times, this one hit hard. It was like looking in a mirror to see someone want love but so afraid to accept it and to see the golden retriever MMC remain steadfast. It felt honest. Shannon always has a way of bringing not only spicy but real life together into something that is just so beautiful.
July 28, 2025
I was hooked from start to finish. I couldn’t put it down. If you’re looking for an age gap and kink this is for you.
We meet Marshall and Elisie. Elisie has been going through IUI wanting to get pregnant unsuccessfully. Little did she expect the one night she had sex with Marshall would result in a baby. Marshall is a pansexual man and a member for the club. Will Marshall step up and be part a father to his baby? Will Elisie finally experience what love means?
We meet Marshall and Elisie. Elisie has been going through IUI wanting to get pregnant unsuccessfully. Little did she expect the one night she had sex with Marshall would result in a baby. Marshall is a pansexual man and a member for the club. Will Marshall step up and be part a father to his baby? Will Elisie finally experience what love means?
September 14, 2024
Wonderfully well written book with great characters and a great storyline. Wanting to become pregnant without marriage, Elsie has a passionate one night with Marshall. When she goes to the doctor for IVF, she is already pregnant. The book is the story of her and Marshall finding their way to a brand new life.
September 16, 2024
I could not get enough of this book. There was so much spice I actually drank enough to be hydrated for once. SE does an incredible job of representing a woman's desires and achievements. I had so much fun with this story and seeing how each of the love interests developed deeper feelings and where they ended up.
Highly worth a read if the blurb sounds interesting!
Highly worth a read if the blurb sounds interesting!
September 17, 2024
Book two of the playground club is an emotional journey with plenty kinks and spice
A pregnancy trope is something i usually dont reach for, but after reading the first book in the series, i definitely wanted to continue series. That being said, this is one instance i actually enjoyed it. This pregnancy trope is much different to the usual one night stander we so often see protrayed in books.
A pregnancy trope is something i usually dont reach for, but after reading the first book in the series, i definitely wanted to continue series. That being said, this is one instance i actually enjoyed it. This pregnancy trope is much different to the usual one night stander we so often see protrayed in books.
September 17, 2024
This is not for me.
While I’m sure this book will appeal to many, it was just not for me. It’s a DNF.
The premise of this story sounded amazing but there were too many terms & labels to go through. I kept trying to move past them because I loved the way the MMC would treat and talk to the FMC, but I couldn’t. If these things don’t bother you then give this a read.
While I’m sure this book will appeal to many, it was just not for me. It’s a DNF.
The premise of this story sounded amazing but there were too many terms & labels to go through. I kept trying to move past them because I loved the way the MMC would treat and talk to the FMC, but I couldn’t. If these things don’t bother you then give this a read.
September 20, 2024
DEVOURED this book in a day!!! If you're into kink/spice, I'd highly recommend this author, the smut and plot are always perfect. The unplanned pregnancy trope and how the MMC and FMC navigate their future together, I just love the way how well it was written. Thank you, author, for giving me an opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book. Much appreciated :)
April 5, 2025
Fun the way that they got together, would like to hear the rest of his speech tho. What happened with her dad's will? Will she accept it? Thanks for the story. Elise was able to get her forever that she planned plus one and Marshall finds himself in new waters but I think pulls thru pretty well without a lot of help.
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