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Sydney Smoke Rugby #3
Playing the Player
After a long history with crappy guys, high school teacher Em Newman is going man-vegan. Four months of revirginization has opened her eyes to her doormat imitation but, baby’s got spine now, and some smooth-talking—even if he is sinfully hot—rugby player, won’t be adding her as a notch anytime soon.
Lincoln Quinn loves rugby, women, and poker. And he likes to win at all three. When his team mates bet him he can’t break through Em’s resolve, he’s more than up for the challenge. But this lady has a shoebox of stipulations before she’ll even go on a date with him, much less use that mouth for kissing instead of giving orders.
Something’s gotta give but this time Em’s not settling. And Linc’s questioning everything he ever knew about matters of the heart.
Lincoln Quinn loves rugby, women, and poker. And he likes to win at all three. When his team mates bet him he can’t break through Em’s resolve, he’s more than up for the challenge. But this lady has a shoebox of stipulations before she’ll even go on a date with him, much less use that mouth for kissing instead of giving orders.
Something’s gotta give but this time Em’s not settling. And Linc’s questioning everything he ever knew about matters of the heart.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published January 23, 2017
86 people are currently reading
503 people want to read
About the author
Amy Andrews
413 books1,421 followersAmy is an award-winning, USA Today best-selling Aussie author who has written eighty-five contemporary romances in both the traditional and digital markets.
Her books bring all the feels from sass, quirk and laughter to emotional grit and panty-melting heat.
She loves good books and great booze although she'll take mediocre booze if there's nothing else. For many, many years she was a registered nurse which means she knows things. Anatomical things. And she’s not afraid to use them!
She recently took a sea change and lives by the ocean with her husband of 33 years.
Sign up for Amy's newsletter here - http://www.amyandrews.com.au/newslett...
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Her books bring all the feels from sass, quirk and laughter to emotional grit and panty-melting heat.
She loves good books and great booze although she'll take mediocre booze if there's nothing else. For many, many years she was a registered nurse which means she knows things. Anatomical things. And she’s not afraid to use them!
She recently took a sea change and lives by the ocean with her husband of 33 years.
Sign up for Amy's newsletter here - http://www.amyandrews.com.au/newslett...
Follow Amy -
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmyAndrewsAu...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyandrewsb...
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/profile/amy-a...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
February 7, 2017
Too easy is no fun…make them work for it.
As an Aussie reading an Aussie author's work that's set in Australia, it's a bit of a game of hit and miss. There’s a fine line between OTT…true blue, she’ll be right mate and how we really are. Amy Andrews nails it. It’s real and still, manages to be extremely humorous. Yes, we do have a few dodgy terms that have some people scrunching their noses, shaking their heads and says “what???” But, for me, this story is exactly how Aussie blokes and chicks act, talk and behave. If you want a story to see how it really is, just pick up something by this author.
Playing the Player was a very sexy story. We meet another member of the Sydney Smoke rugby team, Linc. Now this fine male specimen thinks he has a perfect life. Rugby, money and women are exactly what he has and hopes to keep in his future. Linc doesn’t believe in love or marriage.
As a reader, this train of thought always brings a smile to my face. I love seeing them fall and fight as they go down. Linc, the biggest player of them all is about to meet his match.
Em is sick of settling for a maybe relationship and having sex with men in the hopes of it turning serious. She decides to stay celibate until she meets a good man she’s willing to share her girly bits with. The biggest problem is her girly bits go a wee bit crazy for a man who she thinks is far from good and not likely to ever be serious.
Em’s family history is not much better than Linc’s. Instead of shying away (like Linc), she wants the everlasting love and commitment to a happily ever after. How can they ever be a perfect match?
Em says no to Linc every time he asks her out but deep down she struggles. She wants him but she's trying to protect her heart. Linc can’t get Em off his mind and refuses to give up hope that she’ll eventually fall for his…charms. One too many sweet gestures by Linc breaks down Em’s barriers and she inevitably falls for his…charms.
THESE TWO TOGETHER…HOT!!
Both Em and Lucas will have to reassess their long-term plans if they are to ever find their happy place together. Sometimes, those plans are meant to be broken...especially when you find your one.
I really enjoyed Playing the Player but there was one part towards the end that had me grinding my teeth and getting a little cranky. I think Amy Andrews has written a very accurate interpretation of what a 23-year-old thinks about marriage in this day and age…does not mean I have to like it.
I won’t say any more on that subject, but I think marriage is wonderful, worthwhile and extremely satisfying. It’s bloody hard work but the rewards are worth it.
Another great instalment to the series and I can’t wait for more in the future.
To buy Playing the Player from Amazon - http://amzn.to/2kI1xxw
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
February 5, 2017
4.5 - "You have a lot of balls" Stars!
Amy Andrews, returns to the Sydney Smoke Rugby series with book three, and the affable Lincoln Quinn’s story.
If you have read the previous two books, you will know that Linc is known as being somewhat the ladies’ man, a label he wears with quite a bit of pride, and I must admit I do have a particular soft spot for the reformed bad-boy trope.
"There aint’ nothing that can keep this groin down."
For the most part Amy delivered up a story that worked in that regard. The opening chapter left me with a little concern as to how the story would play out with Em because a relationship built on a is one that starts on a slippery slope in my opinion.
"I believe in rugby and money and sex. There’s honesty in those things. They’re not things that involve feelings and airy fairy promises. They’re things you can control, and they don’t pretend to be something they’re not."
But as the book progresses, you quickly start to see that, that part of the story has very little relevance to the relationship that grows between Linc and Em, and is used more as a catalyst to jump-start their story. And when it is bought to the fore, the author turned it on its head rather than turn it into unnecessary drama, which I really liked too.
"Guys like you don’t stay."
As they get to know each other on a deeper level (as well as having plenty of dirty-hawt sexy-times), you also see that there are a lot of similarities between them and their upbringings that they keep away from the public eye with their larger than life personalities. It doesn’t take long for them both too see past the façade the other projects to the true person they are with though, and I really enjoyed that aspect of the story as well.
He’d opened up to her, shown her his hurts and his scars, and the beliefs that sprung from them.
After the inevitable clash of wills, everything was wrapped up pretty quickly in this one, no huge drama’s played out and nothing was overdone, which for me is a massive plus, so much so that at this point in the series, this is my favourite book from it (so far), and I cannot wait to see which Sydney Smoke player is next to meet his romantic match!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Amy Andrews, returns to the Sydney Smoke Rugby series with book three, and the affable Lincoln Quinn’s story.
If you have read the previous two books, you will know that Linc is known as being somewhat the ladies’ man, a label he wears with quite a bit of pride, and I must admit I do have a particular soft spot for the reformed bad-boy trope.
"There aint’ nothing that can keep this groin down."
For the most part Amy delivered up a story that worked in that regard. The opening chapter left me with a little concern as to how the story would play out with Em because a relationship built on a is one that starts on a slippery slope in my opinion.
"I believe in rugby and money and sex. There’s honesty in those things. They’re not things that involve feelings and airy fairy promises. They’re things you can control, and they don’t pretend to be something they’re not."
But as the book progresses, you quickly start to see that, that part of the story has very little relevance to the relationship that grows between Linc and Em, and is used more as a catalyst to jump-start their story. And when it is bought to the fore, the author turned it on its head rather than turn it into unnecessary drama, which I really liked too.
"Guys like you don’t stay."
As they get to know each other on a deeper level (as well as having plenty of dirty-hawt sexy-times), you also see that there are a lot of similarities between them and their upbringings that they keep away from the public eye with their larger than life personalities. It doesn’t take long for them both too see past the façade the other projects to the true person they are with though, and I really enjoyed that aspect of the story as well.
He’d opened up to her, shown her his hurts and his scars, and the beliefs that sprung from them.
After the inevitable clash of wills, everything was wrapped up pretty quickly in this one, no huge drama’s played out and nothing was overdone, which for me is a massive plus, so much so that at this point in the series, this is my favourite book from it (so far), and I cannot wait to see which Sydney Smoke player is next to meet his romantic match!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
dnf
January 15, 2017
Good God..this is my second DNF today and again it's more of a "ME" issue than the books issue. I must be in a mood today. *lol* I LOVED the first two in this series and will for sure be reading the NEXT book in this series.
First I knew going in it was going to be iffy because I didn't particularly like Lincoln in the previous books. I am also not crazy when an author makes a hero out of a character that was a ubber manwhore in the previous books. I like it even less when said manwhore brags about being a manwhore like it's some fabulous thing to be in the book where he is supposed to be the hero. And I REALLY don't like it when the relationship starts with a I mean REALLY? These are supposed to be adult men. Do none of them think it may be a tiny bit disrespectful to
Three strikes and I was OUT!
February 7, 2017
4.5 stars.
Considering this book contains a trope (loosely) that I'm that not fond of--a bet--Playing the Player played out exceptionally well and has become my favourite in the Sydney Smoke series to date.
I have to admit the opening chapter of this book does neither the story or the characters any particular favours, because what I'm sure was intended to be amusing banter between the guys just makes them look like a bunch of prats with zero respect for women. But Amy Andrews quickly turned this on its head by creating a fantastic rapport between the Sydney Smoke's resident ladies man, Lincoln Quinn and high school teacher, Em Newman. I may not be a fan of one of the tropes, but all isn't exactly as it seems and it was counterbalanced by one I absolutely love: the reformed rake, and Linc does himself proud in his quest to woo Em.
"He was in her control."
Together they generate some serious heat and were a welcome surprise; based on how he's come over in the previous books, I wasn't expecting Linc to be quite the thoughtful, funny, deliciously dirty charmer he was and I loved Em's inability to resist those charms regardless of her stubborn determination, because she's really no pushover. And I admit I'm a sucker for man who falls, and falls from a great height when he meets the right person.
As for the banter between the boys, let's call that first chapter a little hiccup as otherwise the dynamic between them was spot-on and they were hilarious.
"Don’t think I don’t know what’s happening under the table, you dirty bastard."
Amy Andrews has taken two characters and given them the right story; sizzling, sexy and low-drama, which isn't entirely unpredictable, but completely enjoyable. Looking forward to seeing who'll be next to lose their heart.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Considering this book contains a trope (loosely) that I'm that not fond of--a bet--Playing the Player played out exceptionally well and has become my favourite in the Sydney Smoke series to date.
I have to admit the opening chapter of this book does neither the story or the characters any particular favours, because what I'm sure was intended to be amusing banter between the guys just makes them look like a bunch of prats with zero respect for women. But Amy Andrews quickly turned this on its head by creating a fantastic rapport between the Sydney Smoke's resident ladies man, Lincoln Quinn and high school teacher, Em Newman. I may not be a fan of one of the tropes, but all isn't exactly as it seems and it was counterbalanced by one I absolutely love: the reformed rake, and Linc does himself proud in his quest to woo Em.
"He was in her control."
Together they generate some serious heat and were a welcome surprise; based on how he's come over in the previous books, I wasn't expecting Linc to be quite the thoughtful, funny, deliciously dirty charmer he was and I loved Em's inability to resist those charms regardless of her stubborn determination, because she's really no pushover. And I admit I'm a sucker for man who falls, and falls from a great height when he meets the right person.
As for the banter between the boys, let's call that first chapter a little hiccup as otherwise the dynamic between them was spot-on and they were hilarious.
"Don’t think I don’t know what’s happening under the table, you dirty bastard."
Amy Andrews has taken two characters and given them the right story; sizzling, sexy and low-drama, which isn't entirely unpredictable, but completely enjoyable. Looking forward to seeing who'll be next to lose their heart.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
February 7, 2017
4 stars
Playing the Player was a fun, sweet and steamy read, I really enjoyed it.
I enjoyed the storyline, I enjoyed the characters, both Linc and Em were entertaining, funny, smart and passionate people who together made a great couple.
I loved watching their relationship develop, what started as a bet for Linc soon became so much more. He never expected to have such strong feelings for Em.
Overall, Playing the Player by Amy Andrews is a well written, highly entertaining and steamy read.
A wonderful addition to the Sydney Smoke Rugby series and I highly recommend it!
Purchase Links:
Amazon - http://amzn.to/2kFWNo3
Barnes & Noble - http://bit.ly/2jJefb9
Kobo - http://bit.ly/2kFMdl9
iBooks - http://apple.co/2kFJ5p9
*Thank you to the publisher/author for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts*
Playing the Player was a fun, sweet and steamy read, I really enjoyed it.
I enjoyed the storyline, I enjoyed the characters, both Linc and Em were entertaining, funny, smart and passionate people who together made a great couple.
I loved watching their relationship develop, what started as a bet for Linc soon became so much more. He never expected to have such strong feelings for Em.
Overall, Playing the Player by Amy Andrews is a well written, highly entertaining and steamy read.
A wonderful addition to the Sydney Smoke Rugby series and I highly recommend it!
Purchase Links:
Amazon - http://amzn.to/2kFWNo3
Barnes & Noble - http://bit.ly/2jJefb9
Kobo - http://bit.ly/2kFMdl9
iBooks - http://apple.co/2kFJ5p9
*Thank you to the publisher/author for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts*
February 7, 2017
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
I loved the first two books of the Sydney Smoke Rugby Series and so I couldn’t wait for Lincoln Quinn’s book. The title Playing the Player alone will give readers a backdrop as to who Linc is. Yes, Linc is the bad boy manwhore but in this story he is the reformed player who has eyes only for Em Newman.
As much as I love the idea of Linc changing his ways, I did find the connection between Em and Linc lacking in a sense. I just didn’t feel the pull and connection as I did with the previous two couples. I enjoyed the book but just didn’t have the spark like the first two books and also I felt the ending was a bit rushed for my taste.
I loved the first two books of the Sydney Smoke Rugby Series and so I couldn’t wait for Lincoln Quinn’s book. The title Playing the Player alone will give readers a backdrop as to who Linc is. Yes, Linc is the bad boy manwhore but in this story he is the reformed player who has eyes only for Em Newman.
As much as I love the idea of Linc changing his ways, I did find the connection between Em and Linc lacking in a sense. I just didn’t feel the pull and connection as I did with the previous two couples. I enjoyed the book but just didn’t have the spark like the first two books and also I felt the ending was a bit rushed for my taste.
October 4, 2018
Playing the Player is the third installment of the Sydney Smoke Rugby series.
In this book, you will meet Linc and and Em. Linc is one of those guys who honestly doesn't believe in marriage or love. Obviously, this book will, and Em, will prove him wrong. Linc is also probably the biggest player of this series so far.. or maybe the team? I can't really say that's definite or not because I still have more books of this series to read.
Now between these two, I honestly couldn't tell you who I loved more. I really enjoyed Linc and Em together because it was a challenge. Em is a second time virgin, in her eyes, and of course her body is basically fighting against her every time Linc is nearby. Then there's Linc who is consistently striking out when it comes to Em. However, once they got together and did the bom chicka chicka wow wow - it was ahhhhmaaazzeeballlls!
God, I really did love these two together. It was like fireworks, which is probably pretty cliche but I seriously loved them together. Other than that, I liked seeing them figuring out how they fit together and how they can make this possibly work.
I can't wait to dive into the next book.
In this book, you will meet Linc and and Em. Linc is one of those guys who honestly doesn't believe in marriage or love. Obviously, this book will, and Em, will prove him wrong. Linc is also probably the biggest player of this series so far.. or maybe the team? I can't really say that's definite or not because I still have more books of this series to read.
Now between these two, I honestly couldn't tell you who I loved more. I really enjoyed Linc and Em together because it was a challenge. Em is a second time virgin, in her eyes, and of course her body is basically fighting against her every time Linc is nearby. Then there's Linc who is consistently striking out when it comes to Em. However, once they got together and did the bom chicka chicka wow wow - it was ahhhhmaaazzeeballlls!
God, I really did love these two together. It was like fireworks, which is probably pretty cliche but I seriously loved them together. Other than that, I liked seeing them figuring out how they fit together and how they can make this possibly work.
I can't wait to dive into the next book.
February 7, 2017
I’d enjoyed other stories in this series but was wary of this one as the main male character is Lincoln Quinn (aka Linc), a self confessed manwhore and betting man. When the first chapter has him agreeing to something which made him seem a self-opinionated, disrespectful jerk, well, it seemed my caution had been justified. Then, however, Amy Andrews steps in and weaves her word magic and turns the story all around and he becomes the adorable, admirable reformed rake! Phew!!
High school science teacher, Em Newman, has had enough of jerks, especially sporting ones, so really doesn’t want to fall for any of the Sydney Smoke Rugby players, even though her best friend, Harper, has married one of them. She certainly doesn’t want to have anything to do with Linc - she’s heard all about his manwhore reputation! However, Linc falls hard for Em and is determined to win her over - and he’s difficult to resist! There are plenty of problems ahead, challenges to be met and tough loving advice to be given (by Harper to Em) as well as Em’s full name to be revealed!
This is an extremely hot and steamy romance with a strong male lead brought to earth and rocketed skyward by love. The storyline is engaging and there are plenty of twists and turns to enable the author to impose her own stamp on the proceedings. It involves many of the characters from the earlier books in the series - ‘Playing By Her Rules’ and ‘Playing it Cool’ - and it is great to see how their relationships continue to develop. Despite this, I believe it can still be read as a standalone.
I love the glossary at the end of the book, where the author defines many Aussie terms in her own inimitable way! If you like your romances hot and steamy with a hunky male lead finding love changes his attitudes and behaviour, you’ll probably love this.
Many thanks to the publishers who gifted me a copy of this book through NetGalley without any obligations. This is my honest review after choosing to read it!
High school science teacher, Em Newman, has had enough of jerks, especially sporting ones, so really doesn’t want to fall for any of the Sydney Smoke Rugby players, even though her best friend, Harper, has married one of them. She certainly doesn’t want to have anything to do with Linc - she’s heard all about his manwhore reputation! However, Linc falls hard for Em and is determined to win her over - and he’s difficult to resist! There are plenty of problems ahead, challenges to be met and tough loving advice to be given (by Harper to Em) as well as Em’s full name to be revealed!
This is an extremely hot and steamy romance with a strong male lead brought to earth and rocketed skyward by love. The storyline is engaging and there are plenty of twists and turns to enable the author to impose her own stamp on the proceedings. It involves many of the characters from the earlier books in the series - ‘Playing By Her Rules’ and ‘Playing it Cool’ - and it is great to see how their relationships continue to develop. Despite this, I believe it can still be read as a standalone.
I love the glossary at the end of the book, where the author defines many Aussie terms in her own inimitable way! If you like your romances hot and steamy with a hunky male lead finding love changes his attitudes and behaviour, you’ll probably love this.
Many thanks to the publishers who gifted me a copy of this book through NetGalley without any obligations. This is my honest review after choosing to read it!
January 1, 2025
Amy Andrews does it again! Spectacular book, spectacular series! I was highly amused thru the entire thing. What could possibly go wrong when you go after a girl based on a bet ?!?! Let the games begin ....
I loved this story for its characterization. These are young people. They think they know it all. That's just how 20somethings are, right?! Now I'm normally not a huge fan of this age group because they make me want to poke my eyes out with an ice-pick, but I rather enjoyed Linc and Em. They were super sexy and entertaining. And the more one pulled, the more the other pushed. And best of all, little to no drama! LOVED IT!
I loved this story for its characterization. These are young people. They think they know it all. That's just how 20somethings are, right?! Now I'm normally not a huge fan of this age group because they make me want to poke my eyes out with an ice-pick, but I rather enjoyed Linc and Em. They were super sexy and entertaining. And the more one pulled, the more the other pushed. And best of all, little to no drama! LOVED IT!
February 6, 2017
[2.5 stars] Bottom Line. Didn't do it for me; they were obsessed with the physical, the heroine became increasingly annoying, they are constantly obsessed with thinking about how the other person is, and the last 10% feels very rushed. This is my first book by Amy Andrews and I would definitely be open to trying her again. One of the problems I had was some of the cliché aspects of the main characters, so don't know if that's a pattern with her, but I hope not.
Basics. Book is a sports romance set in Australia. Lincoln is a 23-year-old rugby player; Em is a 23-year-old high school science teacher. I classified it as novella-ish at 170 pages; is longer than your traditional novella, but there's not a huge amount of room for development.
Summary. Lincoln and Em have been attracted to each other from the first, but he's a total playboy and she's sworn those off—as well as all boys, actually—for the past several months. As delicious as Linc is, she's determined to stop her pattern of falling for guy after guy, building up their relationship and a future with them in her mind, and then having it all fall flat when the guy doesn't end up being what she's built him up to be.
Lincoln appreciates beautiful women and Em is definitely one of them; he's also someone who can never walk away from a challenge, so when his teammates bet him that he can't get Em in bed, given her current vow of celibacy, he takes them up on it immediately. As he sets out to woo her though, he finds himself connecting with Em in a way he didn't really expect, and realizing that he truly likes her, beyond just wanting to get her into bed.
Though Em has been resistant to Linc's efforts, as he jumps through hoops and shows her a side that's not just the playboy jock, she starts to rethink her vow of celibacy and whether there may actually be something there between them. Having gone through this pattern many times before though, she's determined to not put pressure on their relationship and just see where things go. Will that be enough for her, though, and will Lincoln be able to move past the challenge that got this started and into a real relationship with her?
Thoughts. As my rating indicates, I had several problems with this book. I'll start by saying though that the chemistry was definitely good and that bathroom scene at Em's house ... wowzers!! Very, very hot. I also have to give the author credit for writing Em's reaction to finding out about the bet very reasonable; Linc had easily proven that wasn't something he cared about anymore and she was able to see that. Now onto the not-so-great stuff ...
First of all, both main characters are 23, which seems younger and younger the older I get lol (I'm now the big 3-0). Now, by itself, that's not an issue, though it's definitely rare for me in the contemporaries that I normally read; I read a lot of HR books, and there a 23-year-old heroine is much more common, but times are different, and that's kind of the thing—I'm reading a romance wanting to read about them meeting and falling in love with The One and their forever relationship, and so to read about two 23-year-olds who have only known of each other for a few months and been dating for a few more to decide on the forever part rubbed me the wrong way. People marry their college sweethearts—people marry their high school sweethearts! But to DECIDE that you're going there at such a young age after knowing and dating each other for such a short period of time ... too unrealistic and frankly stupid.
Both main characters also had very, very clichéd backgrounds—both their parents had troubled marriages, so they have a warped, twisted view of relationships; they both have abandonment issues because of one of their parents' actions; they've both dealt with all these things by having sex with a lot of different people; etc. It all felt very cookie cutter, their reactions felt overplayed, and there was no real evolution or "new take" on these classic character histories that we see over and over again.
Finally, by the end of the book Em had really gotten on my nerves. I don't want to give anything away, but the final confrontation/issue that keeps the plot going before the HEA was really immature, self-centered, and selfish. She doesn't at all put herself in Lincoln's shoes, just wants things her way without even considering his own feelings on the matter, and thank god for her friend Harper who at least tried to speak some sense to her and said exactly what I was thinking (though still didn't really do any good). This could have been a great opportunity for character growth and for an unexpected twist, but Andrews wasted the opportunity and the way she decided to have it play out made everything feel that much more forced and cookie-cutter. (Here are the details if you want to know: )
Recommendations. Below are some of my favorite sports romances (not in any particular order) that I would recommend instead:
* Match Me If You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
* See Jane Score by Rachel Gibson
* I Wish You Were Mine by Lauren Layne (ex-athlete)
* Heaven, Texas by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
* Body Check by Deirdre Martin
* Dangerous Race by Dee J. Adams
*This review is of an ARC provided by Net Galley and the publisher
Basics. Book is a sports romance set in Australia. Lincoln is a 23-year-old rugby player; Em is a 23-year-old high school science teacher. I classified it as novella-ish at 170 pages; is longer than your traditional novella, but there's not a huge amount of room for development.
Summary. Lincoln and Em have been attracted to each other from the first, but he's a total playboy and she's sworn those off—as well as all boys, actually—for the past several months. As delicious as Linc is, she's determined to stop her pattern of falling for guy after guy, building up their relationship and a future with them in her mind, and then having it all fall flat when the guy doesn't end up being what she's built him up to be.
Lincoln appreciates beautiful women and Em is definitely one of them; he's also someone who can never walk away from a challenge, so when his teammates bet him that he can't get Em in bed, given her current vow of celibacy, he takes them up on it immediately. As he sets out to woo her though, he finds himself connecting with Em in a way he didn't really expect, and realizing that he truly likes her, beyond just wanting to get her into bed.
Though Em has been resistant to Linc's efforts, as he jumps through hoops and shows her a side that's not just the playboy jock, she starts to rethink her vow of celibacy and whether there may actually be something there between them. Having gone through this pattern many times before though, she's determined to not put pressure on their relationship and just see where things go. Will that be enough for her, though, and will Lincoln be able to move past the challenge that got this started and into a real relationship with her?
Thoughts. As my rating indicates, I had several problems with this book. I'll start by saying though that the chemistry was definitely good and that bathroom scene at Em's house ... wowzers!! Very, very hot. I also have to give the author credit for writing Em's reaction to finding out about the bet very reasonable; Linc had easily proven that wasn't something he cared about anymore and she was able to see that. Now onto the not-so-great stuff ...
First of all, both main characters are 23, which seems younger and younger the older I get lol (I'm now the big 3-0). Now, by itself, that's not an issue, though it's definitely rare for me in the contemporaries that I normally read; I read a lot of HR books, and there a 23-year-old heroine is much more common, but times are different, and that's kind of the thing—I'm reading a romance wanting to read about them meeting and falling in love with The One and their forever relationship, and so to read about two 23-year-olds who have only known of each other for a few months and been dating for a few more to decide on the forever part rubbed me the wrong way. People marry their college sweethearts—people marry their high school sweethearts! But to DECIDE that you're going there at such a young age after knowing and dating each other for such a short period of time ... too unrealistic and frankly stupid.
Both main characters also had very, very clichéd backgrounds—both their parents had troubled marriages, so they have a warped, twisted view of relationships; they both have abandonment issues because of one of their parents' actions; they've both dealt with all these things by having sex with a lot of different people; etc. It all felt very cookie cutter, their reactions felt overplayed, and there was no real evolution or "new take" on these classic character histories that we see over and over again.
Finally, by the end of the book Em had really gotten on my nerves. I don't want to give anything away, but the final confrontation/issue that keeps the plot going before the HEA was really immature, self-centered, and selfish. She doesn't at all put herself in Lincoln's shoes, just wants things her way without even considering his own feelings on the matter, and thank god for her friend Harper who at least tried to speak some sense to her and said exactly what I was thinking (though still didn't really do any good). This could have been a great opportunity for character growth and for an unexpected twist, but Andrews wasted the opportunity and the way she decided to have it play out made everything feel that much more forced and cookie-cutter. (Here are the details if you want to know: )
Recommendations. Below are some of my favorite sports romances (not in any particular order) that I would recommend instead:
* Match Me If You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
* See Jane Score by Rachel Gibson
* I Wish You Were Mine by Lauren Layne (ex-athlete)
* Heaven, Texas by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
* Body Check by Deirdre Martin
* Dangerous Race by Dee J. Adams
*This review is of an ARC provided by Net Galley and the publisher
August 7, 2019
Standalone/Cliffhanger: Standalone
Ages of H and h: Em is 23 and Linc is in his late 20s?
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: No
>>Detail: N/A
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Yes
My Thoughts
I'm not a big fan of heroes betting on how fast they'll sleep with the heroine but I really enjoy Amy's writing style so I could deal with it. I really enjoyed Linc's character despite him being a playboy
Ages of H and h: Em is 23 and Linc is in his late 20s?
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: No
>>Detail: N/A
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Yes
My Thoughts
I'm not a big fan of heroes betting on how fast they'll sleep with the heroine but I really enjoy Amy's writing style so I could deal with it. I really enjoyed Linc's character despite him being a playboy
February 7, 2017
My review cross-posted from Wit and Sin: http://witandsin.blogspot.com/2017/01...
A rugby star who plays hard on and off the field meets his match in a teacher who has no problem making him work for it in Playing the Player . Amy Andrews has a gift for penning romances that are funny and sexy, and this book definitely has humor and heat in spades.
Linc and Em charmed me with their banter and were definitely hot together – both things I expected going into this book. What I didn’t expect was them touching my heart. I absolutely loved peeling back the layers to their characters. At the start, Linc and Em seem like opposites when it comes to love. She’s a relationship-only girl and he’s a player through and through. However, both of them faced childhood abandonment, which helps them understand one another and how they approach relationships. Linc’s upbringing made him cynical about love and he doesn’t believe in marriage. Em, in turn, craves love and commitment and has been burned repeatedly in her search to find it. They both think they won’t work in the long run, but their attraction to one another is impossible for them to resist. I loved the sexual tension between them and the buildup leads to one hell of a payoff. Em and Linc are explosively hot as a couple, and to make things even better, they’re fun.
I was a bit wary going into Playing the Player because I’m not a fan of the romance trope where a character and his friends bet on getting someone into bed. However, because I adore Ms. Andrews’s writing – and am completely hooked on the Sydney Smoke Rugby series – I was willing to give Linc a fair chance. I’m so glad I did. I won’t spoil the story, but I will say that Ms. Andrews turns the tired trope on his head and spares readers from false drama. I was actually delighted with how things turned out, and I truly loved watching their relationship develop. Em and Linc are perfect for each other, and it was a joy to see them come to that realization as well.
Playing the Player is the third book in the Sydney Smoke Rugby series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. What I love about the series is that each book has been filled with great characters, steamy scenes, and wonderful banter, yet while they’re tied together in terms of tone and world, each story is unique. The interaction between the teammates and the women who love them only add further dimension to the world and make me incredibly eager for more books. All in all, I loved Playing the Player . Linc and Em’s love story was a blast to read – so much so that I wanted to dive back in for a re-read right after finishing it.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A rugby star who plays hard on and off the field meets his match in a teacher who has no problem making him work for it in Playing the Player . Amy Andrews has a gift for penning romances that are funny and sexy, and this book definitely has humor and heat in spades.
Linc and Em charmed me with their banter and were definitely hot together – both things I expected going into this book. What I didn’t expect was them touching my heart. I absolutely loved peeling back the layers to their characters. At the start, Linc and Em seem like opposites when it comes to love. She’s a relationship-only girl and he’s a player through and through. However, both of them faced childhood abandonment, which helps them understand one another and how they approach relationships. Linc’s upbringing made him cynical about love and he doesn’t believe in marriage. Em, in turn, craves love and commitment and has been burned repeatedly in her search to find it. They both think they won’t work in the long run, but their attraction to one another is impossible for them to resist. I loved the sexual tension between them and the buildup leads to one hell of a payoff. Em and Linc are explosively hot as a couple, and to make things even better, they’re fun.
I was a bit wary going into Playing the Player because I’m not a fan of the romance trope where a character and his friends bet on getting someone into bed. However, because I adore Ms. Andrews’s writing – and am completely hooked on the Sydney Smoke Rugby series – I was willing to give Linc a fair chance. I’m so glad I did. I won’t spoil the story, but I will say that Ms. Andrews turns the tired trope on his head and spares readers from false drama. I was actually delighted with how things turned out, and I truly loved watching their relationship develop. Em and Linc are perfect for each other, and it was a joy to see them come to that realization as well.
Playing the Player is the third book in the Sydney Smoke Rugby series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. What I love about the series is that each book has been filled with great characters, steamy scenes, and wonderful banter, yet while they’re tied together in terms of tone and world, each story is unique. The interaction between the teammates and the women who love them only add further dimension to the world and make me incredibly eager for more books. All in all, I loved Playing the Player . Linc and Em’s love story was a blast to read – so much so that I wanted to dive back in for a re-read right after finishing it.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
June 17, 2017
I have had this one waiting for me since release day and I have been really looking forward to it seeing as how much I loved the first two in the series and boy did I love it MS Andrews has such a way with words she brings out the best on the pages and this one is a hot sexy awesome story one that I could barely put down I laughed and smiled throughout this journey to a very sexy HEA with Rugby star Lincoln Quinn and school teacher Em Newman, my advice get yourself a drink and sit back and enjoy.
Em has had enough of men she is over them, been celibate for four whole months and even re-virginalized, you see she wants someone permanent someone who will love her and stick around, marriage not like her father who took off and she is determined that the next man she dates will be the one. It is a bit harder than she thinks when hot rugby star Linc Quinn who is a player is asking her out because wow the sparks that shoot between them could light up the footy field but she shows some strength.
Linc is good at gambling, he has no intention of ever getting married, woman are easy for him oh he treats them very well but does not want permanent so when at a poker game his team mates make a bet with him about Em well who is he to refuse. He works very hard to get Em on a date and soon the bet is forgotten because Linc is so drawn to Em he really likes her Em has such an amazing personality they are so well suited and the sparks are getting stronger and their time together is heating up.
WOW this one is a cracker of a story, steamy, sexy and so well written Linc and Em just come to life on the pages, it is moving, beautiful and really a story that you should not miss of course they both have to come around to an amicable solution to their love for each other and what they both want and it is done is such a great way. I absolutely loved Linc he is to die for and Em well what a woman what strength she shows woohoo thank you MS Andrews for a fabulous story. Bring on more of this smoking hot team
Em has had enough of men she is over them, been celibate for four whole months and even re-virginalized, you see she wants someone permanent someone who will love her and stick around, marriage not like her father who took off and she is determined that the next man she dates will be the one. It is a bit harder than she thinks when hot rugby star Linc Quinn who is a player is asking her out because wow the sparks that shoot between them could light up the footy field but she shows some strength.
Linc is good at gambling, he has no intention of ever getting married, woman are easy for him oh he treats them very well but does not want permanent so when at a poker game his team mates make a bet with him about Em well who is he to refuse. He works very hard to get Em on a date and soon the bet is forgotten because Linc is so drawn to Em he really likes her Em has such an amazing personality they are so well suited and the sparks are getting stronger and their time together is heating up.
WOW this one is a cracker of a story, steamy, sexy and so well written Linc and Em just come to life on the pages, it is moving, beautiful and really a story that you should not miss of course they both have to come around to an amicable solution to their love for each other and what they both want and it is done is such a great way. I absolutely loved Linc he is to die for and Em well what a woman what strength she shows woohoo thank you MS Andrews for a fabulous story. Bring on more of this smoking hot team
February 6, 2017
Title: Playing the Player
Author: Amy Andrews
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sports - Rugby
Series or Standalone: Standalone Series (Sydney Smoke Rugby #3)
Rating: ★★★★1/2 Stars (Rounded to 5* for Goodreads and Amazon)
Review
I am in love with this rugby team.
I’m the first to admit that I don’t understand a lick of it, so I’m super thankful with each book that the author goes out of her way to explain some terms, but from life inside the game to life outside of it for this unique band of characters, I think I’m becoming increasingly more in love with it. Taking it as far as to even look up and watch games online.
But the game is not the only thing I’m in love with. The team either. Each individual character, in all their different ways, I’m enamored and captured by. Tanner did it first, then Dex, and now, the man I swear would have been destined to be a cad forever, in Linc.
I fell super hard for this playboy, super freaking fast. Much like Em did. It was such a pleasure to watch this man, a guy that had basically slammed the door on love and marriage based on family history of it, do just that. He came, he saw and he conquered and then you know what happens next? Love conquers him. Slaps him right upside the head until he can’t deny he’s in it and well, for this reader, it was a beautiful thing.
But it didn’t come without a lot of work on his part and a lot of humorous moments, which I will say, is one of the other reasons I enjoy reading this author so much. She always brings a level of humor that has me almost snorting drinks out of my nose, even when things are picking up and on the more serious end and it keeps me from falling to deep into any of the more emotional and heavy moments.
I hadn’t experienced this author before this series and have since been slowly going back into her older works, but the humor, the steam/heat level, and the characters themselves as they’re brought to life are just three of the things that will always keep me coming back for more.
So, what was it that kept this story especially with all the things I enjoyed about it, from reaching five stars?
Em.
Now that’s not to say I didn’t enjoy her. I did. I actually enjoyed her a lot, especially given her penchant for science and her teaching background. What I had issues with was in a way she reacts later in the book. I understood it, deep down, but at the same time, being as team Linc as I am and being even more connected to him and his way of thinking about this particular thing (knowing his background, etc.) it was harder for me not to want to smack my kindle (and pretend it was her) when it happened.
I didn’t feel that aspect of their relationship needed to be rushed, especially with how new they were.
That being said, it all worked out in the end, for me as the reader. I got what I wanted with this story the same way I did with the others and I wouldn’t change a thing because even if I was annoyed with Em, there’s no arguing that at the end of the day, it was a very real and very human response. Even if it wouldn’t have been mine.
So, to sum this all up, Amy Andrews has done it again and it’s my hope that this series continues and that I get to see more of this team, this band of brothers in future books. But whether I do or I don’t, the author is stuck with this book reading fan for life.
My thanks to the author, Net Galley and all others involved in letting me read this story before official release. Linc’s journey, much like the two before it, is one I’m so grateful to have taken before the rest of the world.
November 23, 2024
3.5 stars
I was pleasantly surprised that the bet situation (Em has sworn off men for book reasons, Linc is a hot rugby player whose team mates have bet about when she’ll sleep with him) didn’t go into “Am I a bet? AM I A FUCKING BET?!?” territory. And the dynamic was less him coaxing her the whole time, and more her fighting her self-imposed rules when she really wanted to bang the hot rugby player haha.
Where the story let me down was the final relationship conflict, as that was a very real-life conflict that was resolved far too easily for these 23 year olds, which made the HEA feel a little unsatisfactory.
I was pleasantly surprised that the bet situation (Em has sworn off men for book reasons, Linc is a hot rugby player whose team mates have bet about when she’ll sleep with him) didn’t go into “Am I a bet? AM I A FUCKING BET?!?” territory. And the dynamic was less him coaxing her the whole time, and more her fighting her self-imposed rules when she really wanted to bang the hot rugby player haha.
Where the story let me down was the final relationship conflict, as that was a very real-life conflict that was resolved far too easily for these 23 year olds, which made the HEA feel a little unsatisfactory.
February 7, 2020
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Linc and Em were two people with awful family histories. They were emotionally damaged by their pasts, and therefore, were struggling with what they were feeling for each other. I loved that Em opened Linc's eyes to love, and I was so happy, when Linc saw Em for how special she was. I wanted these two to have the best of everything, and I knew they could have it with each other.
There were lots of fun bits, and it was fantastic catching up with the couples from the past two books. I would have liked a bit more of the story outside of the bedroom, because I really did enjoy getting to know these two and loved their dynamic. I was super happy with the ending though. I loved how each of them worked through their emotions about what the other wanted, and their actions made me smile.
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Linc and Em were two people with awful family histories. They were emotionally damaged by their pasts, and therefore, were struggling with what they were feeling for each other. I loved that Em opened Linc's eyes to love, and I was so happy, when Linc saw Em for how special she was. I wanted these two to have the best of everything, and I knew they could have it with each other.
There were lots of fun bits, and it was fantastic catching up with the couples from the past two books. I would have liked a bit more of the story outside of the bedroom, because I really did enjoy getting to know these two and loved their dynamic. I was super happy with the ending though. I loved how each of them worked through their emotions about what the other wanted, and their actions made me smile.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
February 10, 2017
I’ve become pretty partial to rugby romances lately, and Amy Andrews is high on my list of go-to authors when it comes to mixing sports and steam in fun and exciting romances. I really enjoyed the first two stories in the Sydney Smoke Rugby series, in which secondary character Lincoln Quinn is clearly a man set on experiencing all the action he can get while advancing his rugby career. In Playing the Player, there’s one woman who just doesn’t seem to be into him at all, something he can’t quite wrap his head around. Em Newman, a high school teacher, and friend of one of his teammate’s girlfriends has rebuffed him at every turn. Never able to resist a bet, he’s easily goaded into putting down money that he’ll be able to convince Em to loosen up and do the wild thing with him within two months. But this player is about to learn that in the game of love, the only winners are the ones who make it to the goal line together.
I love a hero in pursuit theme, and that’s what we get here with Linc going after Em with a single-minded determination. At first, it’s because of the bet, but it’s not long before he has put thoughts of that aside in the realization that he really likes Em and wants to spend time with her – in and out of bed. He’s also a good guy hero with a kind heart, and while he may have a bit of an ego, Em is pretty capable of taking him down a peg or two. His flirt texting and phone calls had me laughing out loud and combining that with his attention to being the best damn lover Em has ever had puts him clearly at the top of my book boyfriend shelf.
Em is serious about her next boyfriend being ‘the one’. She wants marriage, kids, the whole nine yards. She knows that Linc isn’t looking for anything serious and tries hard to resist temptation. But when he agrees to run a rugby clinic at her school in exchange for a date, she realizes that letting loose and having a little fun wouldn’t be such a bad thing. The result is some explosive scenes, hot and steamy sex (shower scenes included!), and two people who quickly can’t keep their hands off each other. But just because they’ve finally done the deed, it doesn’t change how they feel about marriage (a definite no go for Linc and a yes, please for Em). Even when they get to the point of revealing their feelings for each other, if there is no compromise their relationship won’t last long. You’ll have to read it for yourself to see how they sort things out, but rest assured, they get their happy ending. I loved the scenes on the pitch, the bromance between Linc and his teammates, and the banter between Linc and Em. I’m officially naming this one my hottest read of January 2017 and I’ll be keeping my eyes out for more sexy, steamy fun from Amy Andrews!
This review also appears at : https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I love a hero in pursuit theme, and that’s what we get here with Linc going after Em with a single-minded determination. At first, it’s because of the bet, but it’s not long before he has put thoughts of that aside in the realization that he really likes Em and wants to spend time with her – in and out of bed. He’s also a good guy hero with a kind heart, and while he may have a bit of an ego, Em is pretty capable of taking him down a peg or two. His flirt texting and phone calls had me laughing out loud and combining that with his attention to being the best damn lover Em has ever had puts him clearly at the top of my book boyfriend shelf.
Em is serious about her next boyfriend being ‘the one’. She wants marriage, kids, the whole nine yards. She knows that Linc isn’t looking for anything serious and tries hard to resist temptation. But when he agrees to run a rugby clinic at her school in exchange for a date, she realizes that letting loose and having a little fun wouldn’t be such a bad thing. The result is some explosive scenes, hot and steamy sex (shower scenes included!), and two people who quickly can’t keep their hands off each other. But just because they’ve finally done the deed, it doesn’t change how they feel about marriage (a definite no go for Linc and a yes, please for Em). Even when they get to the point of revealing their feelings for each other, if there is no compromise their relationship won’t last long. You’ll have to read it for yourself to see how they sort things out, but rest assured, they get their happy ending. I loved the scenes on the pitch, the bromance between Linc and his teammates, and the banter between Linc and Em. I’m officially naming this one my hottest read of January 2017 and I’ll be keeping my eyes out for more sexy, steamy fun from Amy Andrews!
This review also appears at : https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
February 6, 2017
Three stars? Three and a half stars? can't decide.
Harper's best friend Em is a teacher. After a spate of bad news boyfriends where she was picking out wedding china while they were legging it out the door she has sworn off men. Four months of abstinence have helped her get a perspective although the delicious Lincoln Quinn, her best friend's fiancee Dex's team mate sorely tests her resolve.
Lincoln loves women, rugby and gambling - not necessarily in that order. He fancies Harper's bubbly best friend Em but she won't give him the time of day, thinks he's too much of a player. When his team mates lay bets on how quickly he could get the frosty Em into bed at a poker game he isn't interested, but then his competitive interests come to the fore.
This started off really well for me. Em was feisty and fighting against her natural instincts, while Linc was learning how to actually get to know a woman and think about what she wanted - outside the bedroom.
But then just over half way through I started to feel like this was more of a erotic novella than a novel. Not a lot seemed to happen (except sex in unexpected places), there was no angst, no development, and every chapter seemed to start "one month later ...". I didn't even see any conflict until 87% into the book! Although I am not a rugby fan, nor do I understand any of the jargon, this didn't even have much rugby in it - more of the WAGs watching from the stands.
So overall, this series has been a mixed bag for me. I detested the first book Playing by Her Rules, mainly because I thought the hero was a tool; I adored the second book Playing It Cool, perhaps because the hero was SUCH a great guy but this one I was a bit meh. Maybe this book suffered in comparison to Rosalind James' Escape to New Zealand series (about New Zealand All Blacks rugby players finding love) which I have binge-read over the past few weeks.
Anyway, Amy Andrews is still an auto-buy for me (or auto-request), but this was just pleasant enough.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Harper's best friend Em is a teacher. After a spate of bad news boyfriends where she was picking out wedding china while they were legging it out the door she has sworn off men. Four months of abstinence have helped her get a perspective although the delicious Lincoln Quinn, her best friend's fiancee Dex's team mate sorely tests her resolve.
Lincoln loves women, rugby and gambling - not necessarily in that order. He fancies Harper's bubbly best friend Em but she won't give him the time of day, thinks he's too much of a player. When his team mates lay bets on how quickly he could get the frosty Em into bed at a poker game he isn't interested, but then his competitive interests come to the fore.
This started off really well for me. Em was feisty and fighting against her natural instincts, while Linc was learning how to actually get to know a woman and think about what she wanted - outside the bedroom.
But then just over half way through I started to feel like this was more of a erotic novella than a novel. Not a lot seemed to happen (except sex in unexpected places), there was no angst, no development, and every chapter seemed to start "one month later ...". I didn't even see any conflict until 87% into the book! Although I am not a rugby fan, nor do I understand any of the jargon, this didn't even have much rugby in it - more of the WAGs watching from the stands.
So overall, this series has been a mixed bag for me. I detested the first book Playing by Her Rules, mainly because I thought the hero was a tool; I adored the second book Playing It Cool, perhaps because the hero was SUCH a great guy but this one I was a bit meh. Maybe this book suffered in comparison to Rosalind James' Escape to New Zealand series (about New Zealand All Blacks rugby players finding love) which I have binge-read over the past few weeks.
Anyway, Amy Andrews is still an auto-buy for me (or auto-request), but this was just pleasant enough.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
March 16, 2017
Mmmm, there's just something appealing about those hot rugby player types, I don't know what it is exactly. Maybe the itty bitty shorts? Anyhoo, after reading "Playing it Cool", the second in this series, in under two days and loving every minute, I was super stoked to pick up "Playing the Player". Did it live up to my lofty expectations? Uh, not quite. Let me explain:
The good:
This was a speedy read, with fairly quick pacing.
I appreciated the lack of angst. For example, when Em found out about the bet, she realized it was a silly, stupid mistake on Lincoln's part and didn't hold it against him for long.
The banter between Em and Linc was great, and I loved it when Lincoln was trying to guess what "Em" was short for - I never would have guessed in a million years!
I liked that Em was a really smart science geek and loved her teaching job. Probably someone I would like to be friends with.
The not-so-good:
There honestly wasn't much of a plot here. I mean, Lincoln and Em didn't really do a whole lot together, besides the sexy times, but I think the not-sexy times were my favourite. For example, the Nerd Girls show could have been elaborated on, as well as the time Linc did a rugby clinic at Em's school. Any details of these happenings were simply left to the imagination, but I think by leaving out the details, while reducing the reading time, also cut down on the amount of character and relationship development.
I felt Lincoln's transformation from player to devoted boyfriend happened a bit too quickly for me to believe. I'm not saying it couldn't happen, I just think his complete 180° turn might happen 10 degrees at a time over the course of a year or so.
I just didn't like "Playing the Player" as much as "Playing it Cool", and I think it's because Linc and Em were lacking the same amount of character development as Harper and Dexter had.
So although I didn't love this one as much as I'd hoped to, I still liked it, and I am definitely wanting to check out the rest of the Sydney Smoke Rugby series when I get a chance. Fans of Amy Andrews or steamy sports romances won't want to miss "Playing the Player", either!
Many thanks to Entangled Publishing via Netgalley for the free review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
The good:
This was a speedy read, with fairly quick pacing.
I appreciated the lack of angst. For example, when Em found out about the bet, she realized it was a silly, stupid mistake on Lincoln's part and didn't hold it against him for long.
The banter between Em and Linc was great, and I loved it when Lincoln was trying to guess what "Em" was short for - I never would have guessed in a million years!
I liked that Em was a really smart science geek and loved her teaching job. Probably someone I would like to be friends with.
The not-so-good:
There honestly wasn't much of a plot here. I mean, Lincoln and Em didn't really do a whole lot together, besides the sexy times, but I think the not-sexy times were my favourite. For example, the Nerd Girls show could have been elaborated on, as well as the time Linc did a rugby clinic at Em's school. Any details of these happenings were simply left to the imagination, but I think by leaving out the details, while reducing the reading time, also cut down on the amount of character and relationship development.
I felt Lincoln's transformation from player to devoted boyfriend happened a bit too quickly for me to believe. I'm not saying it couldn't happen, I just think his complete 180° turn might happen 10 degrees at a time over the course of a year or so.
I just didn't like "Playing the Player" as much as "Playing it Cool", and I think it's because Linc and Em were lacking the same amount of character development as Harper and Dexter had.
So although I didn't love this one as much as I'd hoped to, I still liked it, and I am definitely wanting to check out the rest of the Sydney Smoke Rugby series when I get a chance. Fans of Amy Andrews or steamy sports romances won't want to miss "Playing the Player", either!
Many thanks to Entangled Publishing via Netgalley for the free review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 6, 2017
I completely adore the Sidney Smoke Rugby series by Amy Andrews and Playing the Player is the third of the series. While you don’t have to read the first two to understand this novel because they are all standalone, it would be worth reading them. Em is a high school teacher who is sick of falling for the player so after a four-month hiatus from men the last thing she wants is to catch the eye of the biggest player she knows. All Lincoln needs to fulfill his life is rugby, woman, and poker. When his friends bet him that he can’t break Em out of her no sex strike, he pulls out all the stops to win her over. Of course, a woman like Em isn’t going to make it easy on the player, she gives him a list of requirements he must complete before she considers dating him. Em isn’t settling for anything less than a man giving his all. Linc is up for the challenge but as times passes he begins to question his life style and everything he knew about matters of the heart. I really enjoyed this book because it was funny, hot, and captivating. I both adored Em and Linc, but especially loved them together. I can easily give this novel 5 stars and I really hope there will be more from this series!
(ARC provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing in exchanged for an honest review)
(ARC provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing in exchanged for an honest review)
February 7, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Publisher***
I enjoyed this one. Em and Lincoln were fun, and funny, together and separately. I liked who they were as people, I liked how dedicated they each were to making something with them work...even though it took a bit for them to get on the same page with this.
Sometimes, it is fun to read a book that is easy, that flows, and that you enjoy. There was nothing about this book that made it all that full of angst, and the issue with the 2 of them was both a little predictable and also felt real at the same time.
The writing was strong and the characters both realistic and consistent. I liked the mix of gentleman and player in Lincoln, and the mix of free spirit and traditional woman in Em.
And, I loved her name...once it was finally revealed.
The pacing was mostly strong, you were able to follow along without feeling like the book dragged at any point. There were, however, a few places where I thought the narrative skipped over an event that I would have liked to have been present for, and that made it a little tough to filly invest in this one.
I didn't read the 2nd in the series, and this is enough of a standalone that you don't need to in order to be able to follow it.
I do recommend this book.
I enjoyed this one. Em and Lincoln were fun, and funny, together and separately. I liked who they were as people, I liked how dedicated they each were to making something with them work...even though it took a bit for them to get on the same page with this.
Sometimes, it is fun to read a book that is easy, that flows, and that you enjoy. There was nothing about this book that made it all that full of angst, and the issue with the 2 of them was both a little predictable and also felt real at the same time.
The writing was strong and the characters both realistic and consistent. I liked the mix of gentleman and player in Lincoln, and the mix of free spirit and traditional woman in Em.
And, I loved her name...once it was finally revealed.
The pacing was mostly strong, you were able to follow along without feeling like the book dragged at any point. There were, however, a few places where I thought the narrative skipped over an event that I would have liked to have been present for, and that made it a little tough to filly invest in this one.
I didn't read the 2nd in the series, and this is enough of a standalone that you don't need to in order to be able to follow it.
I do recommend this book.
April 27, 2017
A very sexy read with some fun moments. A bit rushed at the end and I wish a few scenes had been shown rather than jumping ahead to move the book along, but overall a good read and one I will rec. I'll be back to try more from Andrews and especially this series.
Full review will go up on the blog later this week.
Full review will go up on the blog later this week.
May 1, 2017
I think the only thing I don’t like about this series is that the books are always so damn short. Playing the Player is no exception from the rest of the series—it’s hot, funny, intriguing, and heartwarmingly beautiful. Linc and Em couldn’t be any more different, but it’s what ultimately brings them together. Sometimes opposites do attract.
We’ve known Linc since book one, and we’ve known he was the biggest player of them all. Only caring about rugby, money, and women. But what about his past made him the player who closes of his emotions so completely? But I also couldn’t wait to see him fall, fast and hard for Em.
And I love Em! First off, her real name is hilarious. Those mean parents... lol Secondly, I’ve had a very specific image of her in my head after Harper’s book, which thankfully was not actually the case. But I loved how much she changed and grew throughout the series. Yet, both Linc and Em have had a rocky childhood, one that damaged both of them in a very different way. Can they overcome the scars inflicted by their parents? Or will they let them tear each other apart?
I think what I liked most about Playing the Player was not just the chemistry between the two—and boy was that hot—but also the fact that while I thought I knew what was going to happen, it actually didn’t! I was sure this one thing will happen and tear them apart—color me surprised, and ecstatic when it actually did not happen. I love when authors manage to take me by surprise and throw my preconceived notions out the window, proving me wrong. Well done, Miss Andrews, well done!
Despite this however, I enjoyed this book due to its well-developed writing and characters. It drew me in from page one without hesitation and didn’t let me go.
If you are in the mood to see a sexy, arrogant rugby player be brought to his knees by a science teacher, then Playing the Player is the book for you! It’s full of hot steamy scenes as well as the sweet love story I’ve come to crave and expect from Amy Andrews. Playing the Player—another book in the “Sydney Smoke Rugby Series” that did NOT disappoint.
We’ve known Linc since book one, and we’ve known he was the biggest player of them all. Only caring about rugby, money, and women. But what about his past made him the player who closes of his emotions so completely? But I also couldn’t wait to see him fall, fast and hard for Em.
And I love Em! First off, her real name is hilarious. Those mean parents... lol Secondly, I’ve had a very specific image of her in my head after Harper’s book, which thankfully was not actually the case. But I loved how much she changed and grew throughout the series. Yet, both Linc and Em have had a rocky childhood, one that damaged both of them in a very different way. Can they overcome the scars inflicted by their parents? Or will they let them tear each other apart?
I think what I liked most about Playing the Player was not just the chemistry between the two—and boy was that hot—but also the fact that while I thought I knew what was going to happen, it actually didn’t! I was sure this one thing will happen and tear them apart—color me surprised, and ecstatic when it actually did not happen. I love when authors manage to take me by surprise and throw my preconceived notions out the window, proving me wrong. Well done, Miss Andrews, well done!
Despite this however, I enjoyed this book due to its well-developed writing and characters. It drew me in from page one without hesitation and didn’t let me go.
If you are in the mood to see a sexy, arrogant rugby player be brought to his knees by a science teacher, then Playing the Player is the book for you! It’s full of hot steamy scenes as well as the sweet love story I’ve come to crave and expect from Amy Andrews. Playing the Player—another book in the “Sydney Smoke Rugby Series” that did NOT disappoint.
February 7, 2017
I don't think that Amy could write anything that I didn't LOVE!!
This group of men that have created a family of their own are so strong, alpha, funny and yummy!! This series strike me as different from so many others because it truly revolves around the men and their friendships and dynamic with each other. The women get along and are even BFFs in the case of this installment but Amy keeps the story about the team and the current books couple.
Linc falls hard but embraces it and the feelings her has for Em. Em is reluctant to make the same mistakes shes made with men in the past but refuses to give up on her hearts desires either.
In a plot that could have been predictable (jocks and their crazy bets; 2 main characters trying to overcome their pasts) Amy kept it fresh and had me loving Harper (bk 2 leading lady & Em BFF) all over again for the honesty and tough love she gives her girl!
Bring on book 4 please!!
This group of men that have created a family of their own are so strong, alpha, funny and yummy!! This series strike me as different from so many others because it truly revolves around the men and their friendships and dynamic with each other. The women get along and are even BFFs in the case of this installment but Amy keeps the story about the team and the current books couple.
Linc falls hard but embraces it and the feelings her has for Em. Em is reluctant to make the same mistakes shes made with men in the past but refuses to give up on her hearts desires either.
In a plot that could have been predictable (jocks and their crazy bets; 2 main characters trying to overcome their pasts) Amy kept it fresh and had me loving Harper (bk 2 leading lady & Em BFF) all over again for the honesty and tough love she gives her girl!
Bring on book 4 please!!
February 8, 2017
So I was not really a fan of Lincoln in the first 2 books. He was kind of a major jerk and player, but when he finally met his match he showed what a gentleman and all around good guy he could be. She makes him work for a date with her and you can see past his playboy exterior to the man he really is. Let's just say that while my mind is not 100% changed I am a fan of Linc's now.
Em is a very smart rational woman who doesn't take any of Lincoln's normal crap. There was a moment that could have been a huge misunderstanding and an end to them but she was so calm and rational and actually thought about it before going off the handle and fighting with him. He may have deserved it but he deserved her more.
These two had some outstanding chemistry from the start. Once they finally gave in it was off the charts. I cannot wait to see who the next Sidney Smoke player to fall is. HIghly recommend this book for anyone with a love for science, sport and smarts.
April 4, 2017
2.5 stars
I loved the first two books in this series so I'm really disappointed how this one turned out. I wasn't a fan of Linc in the previous books and I didn't warm up to him even if he was the "hero" of this one (and I use the term 'hero' very loosely here). Also, any book that makes me skip pages because the story is dragging (especially if the book is only 170 pages long) doesn't deserve more than 3 stars imho.
I loved the first two books in this series so I'm really disappointed how this one turned out. I wasn't a fan of Linc in the previous books and I didn't warm up to him even if he was the "hero" of this one (and I use the term 'hero' very loosely here). Also, any book that makes me skip pages because the story is dragging (especially if the book is only 170 pages long) doesn't deserve more than 3 stars imho.
March 28, 2017
I never knew I liked rugby until I read this book!! Cute teacher and hot rugby star!! Awesome mix to make a great story! Loved it!
February 23, 2017
4 out of 5 stars
Competition is what drives Lincoln Quinn. The sexy, rugby star doesn’t shy away from a bet. So when his teammates make wages as to how long it will take him to sleep with Em Newman, he is all in; even if she seems to hate him.
Em Newman is definitely attracted to Lincoln but she is done falling for bad boys. They will just break her heart. But the more time she spends with Lincoln, the more she is falling in love with him. She really hopes he isn’t the player he seems to be.
Lincoln thought this would all be just fun and games but the closer he gets to Em, the more he is feeling for her. He doesn’t believe in love and marriage but being without Em isn’t an option.
Wow, the sex scenes in this book were sizzling. Lincoln might make your panties melt. This book was great. At first I thought this was going to be the same old story line of bad boy hooks up with the good girl, bad guy screws up, etc. This book was so much more! The chemistry between Lincoln and Em was perfect; they were fantastic together! Lincoln really had to work for Em’s affection.
I definitely recommend this book to read. I will also be going back and reading the first two books in this series as well.
February 15, 2017
Lincoln Quinn is a well known rugby player for the Sydney Smoke. He loves the game as well as hanging out with his teammates. He doesn't plan to tie himself down. No wife and family for him. He plans to play the field. He's attracted to Em, but she constantly rebuffs him. She doesn't want a fling. She wants it all - love, marriage and a family. To win a bet, Linc pursues her, but the jokes on him when he falls for her. What happens next is a passionate romance between the Rugby super star and the intelligent school teacher. I liked that they have an immediate connection. When they're together the temperature sores. The chemistry is amazing. Unfortunately they each have past issues that may keep them apart. I liked both Em and Linc. They are perfect for each other. I just wasn't sure how their romance would end. It was enjoyable to see the other Sydney Smoke players. They are a rowdy but loveable group. Amy Andrews knows romance and rugby. I loved reading Linc and Em's story. I enjoyed seeing another Smoke player bite the dust!
A copy of this book was provided to me. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
A copy of this book was provided to me. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
February 5, 2017
“Any chance we get to love someone, even if it’s only for a little while, isn’t wasted time.”
I love that line. That line made the whole book—and the element that wasn't quite sitting right—work for me. Because love isn't wasted. At least, not for Linc and Em.
This is now the second book I've read from Amy Andrews, and it was just as good as the first one I read… which was the second in the Sydney Smoke Rugby series. Follow me? What I'm saying is this: you don't have to have read all (or any) of the books in this series to appreciate Ms. Andrews’ writing and storytelling. This standalone interconnects with the first two books, but Linc and Em have enough charm and love and chemistry to carry you through to the end.
They also have just enough Aussie-ness to win me over. It can be hard sometimes, with Australian set books, to find the right balance between everyday Australian and stereotypical, crikey-spouting Australian, but Ms. Andrews found it. There were words and references and places that made me ache to visit my home country, but it never went too over the top, and I was so very grateful for that.
I was grateful for a lot of things, actually. The direction taken on the bet storyline. The friendship and camaraderie between the Sydney Smoke players. The easy way Linc and Em’s relationship progressed from antagonistic to something more. Not to mention the heat they generated together…
The only thing that didn't grab me 100% is a little too spoilery for me to share, but simply put: it all worked out in the end. It's not that it didn't make sense, or that it was bad—it wasn’t, I swear—I just didn't love or… relate to it. I don't know. I can't explain it.
But I can explain that the above quote—along with all those things I am grateful for—made Playing the Player a very fun *and* funny, very fresh and very fast read. It also made me anticipate more from these Rugby boys, and Ms. Andrews, in the future.
This was Linc at his most elemental. This was cave man stuff. Potently male. Potently virile.
Hot. As. Fuck.
~ FOUR STARS ~
I love that line. That line made the whole book—and the element that wasn't quite sitting right—work for me. Because love isn't wasted. At least, not for Linc and Em.
This is now the second book I've read from Amy Andrews, and it was just as good as the first one I read… which was the second in the Sydney Smoke Rugby series. Follow me? What I'm saying is this: you don't have to have read all (or any) of the books in this series to appreciate Ms. Andrews’ writing and storytelling. This standalone interconnects with the first two books, but Linc and Em have enough charm and love and chemistry to carry you through to the end.
They also have just enough Aussie-ness to win me over. It can be hard sometimes, with Australian set books, to find the right balance between everyday Australian and stereotypical, crikey-spouting Australian, but Ms. Andrews found it. There were words and references and places that made me ache to visit my home country, but it never went too over the top, and I was so very grateful for that.
I was grateful for a lot of things, actually. The direction taken on the bet storyline. The friendship and camaraderie between the Sydney Smoke players. The easy way Linc and Em’s relationship progressed from antagonistic to something more. Not to mention the heat they generated together…
The only thing that didn't grab me 100% is a little too spoilery for me to share, but simply put: it all worked out in the end. It's not that it didn't make sense, or that it was bad—it wasn’t, I swear—I just didn't love or… relate to it. I don't know. I can't explain it.
But I can explain that the above quote—along with all those things I am grateful for—made Playing the Player a very fun *and* funny, very fresh and very fast read. It also made me anticipate more from these Rugby boys, and Ms. Andrews, in the future.
This was Linc at his most elemental. This was cave man stuff. Potently male. Potently virile.
Hot. As. Fuck.
~ FOUR STARS ~
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