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Play the Part
Connie Broadbent loves to run away from her mistakes. So when her glossy Hollywood life turns into a tabloid nightmare on the eve of her twenty-ninth birthday, she does what she knows best and books a one-way ticket back to Marsford Bay. But even her hometown isn’t safe from her past blunders—namely, a year-old impulsive one-night stand with a broody ex-con.
Huxley McKenna believes that his past will haunt him forever. At just eighteen, his life irrevocably changed when a rash decision landed him in prison. Now twenty-five, Huxley is determined to move on from his delinquent past. Despite his cynicism, he stays out of trouble and gets a job in construction to pay the bills. But there’s one thing from his past that he can’t seem to evade: Connie Broadbent. A seemingly impossible task when his older brother is engaged to her best friend.
However, their plan to ignore each other fails when Connie buys a rundown theatre and is cornered into hiring Huxley, thanks to a little persuasion from her best friend. Wanting to keep their shared past a secret, the two reluctantly agree to work together. This inevitably leads to infuriating mind games and messy push-and-pulls, both too stubborn to give in to their attraction. But soon, they will be forced to face the truth: some mistakes might be worth making twice.
*Play the Part is a contemporary romance with a guaranteed HEA. It has mature situations and themes which may be considered triggers for some. Reader discretion is advised.*
Huxley McKenna believes that his past will haunt him forever. At just eighteen, his life irrevocably changed when a rash decision landed him in prison. Now twenty-five, Huxley is determined to move on from his delinquent past. Despite his cynicism, he stays out of trouble and gets a job in construction to pay the bills. But there’s one thing from his past that he can’t seem to evade: Connie Broadbent. A seemingly impossible task when his older brother is engaged to her best friend.
However, their plan to ignore each other fails when Connie buys a rundown theatre and is cornered into hiring Huxley, thanks to a little persuasion from her best friend. Wanting to keep their shared past a secret, the two reluctantly agree to work together. This inevitably leads to infuriating mind games and messy push-and-pulls, both too stubborn to give in to their attraction. But soon, they will be forced to face the truth: some mistakes might be worth making twice.
*Play the Part is a contemporary romance with a guaranteed HEA. It has mature situations and themes which may be considered triggers for some. Reader discretion is advised.*
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2025
86 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
Naomi Loud
11 books550 followersWriter, occasional poet, and full-time witch, Naomi Loud is known for her angsty and heartfelt stories. Whether it be dark romance or contemporary, she loves to explore the complexities of the human condition and find the common thread that connects us all. Naomi lives in Montreal, Canada, with her husband and three cats, but secretly wishes she could live underwater.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
June 15, 2025
“You’re not meaningless, Huxley”
Naomi does it again. This is the first book I’ve finished, like no skimming, read to the end, loved every second in probably….4 months. Thank you as always to Naomi for an ARC of this
Naomi really meant it in the warning when they said Huxley and Connie were flawed people coming together and they were in fact MESSY.
HUXLEY my sweet angel baby who might be an idiot at some times (i will get into that) but just wants to be loved 😩😩😩
CONNIE god damn it you really pissed me off in the beginning but you had your reasons 😭
OKAY SO Huxley and Connie hooked up a year ago at Ozzy’s and Jamie’s engagement party when Hux was FRESH out of prison. He thought it meant something, but to impulsive Connie it was just a fling before going back to her life in LA and forgetting all about it. She started dating an actor soon after that and it left Hux feeling used and forgotten RIGHTFULLY SO because she literally never spoke to him again until fast forward a year and here we are.
Yes Huxley went about A LOT of things the wrong way but the little things he did even when he was mad at Connie were just 😩😩😩😩😩🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰 I loved him so much.
AND DON’T GET ME STARTED ON DK. Hux is such a cat dad and i loved seeing that soft side of him.
My ONLY irritation is i wish it the chapters were a little bit longer and a little more explanation was given in some areas but i was vibing the entire story so i didn’t mind it all that much.
Now i know this part won’t be for some people and it usually isn’t for me either and it’s not really a spoiler but i will put a warning because my ramblings might get into spoiler territory
❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌❌
so they both hook up with other people after they meet BUT LET ME EXPLAIN. 😩😩😩 Huxley has been casually hooking up with this ow and continues until like 36% in but it is NEVER shown. not even a kiss is shown. he does hook up with the ow again after kissing the h but i fully believe that if she didn’t say what she did after he wouldn’t have because she really hurt his feelings. do i condone him reacting that way? no but he spent his formative years in prison so i give him a pass. 🫣
Connie was also hooking up with this dj she met at this club at 13% and stops hooking up with him around 25%
they were both jealous of the op but didn’t feel like they should be because Huxley was ignoring Connie for a majority of the time.
there isn’t really any ow drama with her though. she’s a fan of Connie’s and when Hux breaks it off she is never seen again 😂 same with the om. Connie just ghosts him and that’s that but boyyyyy did that make Hux jealous 😭 which brings me to my next rant….
Huxley you dumb ass broken boy 😭
so Connie’s cheating ex comes back around and Hux in self sabotage mode leaves her at an event because he’s jealous she was talking to the ex and then posts a story on social media (which he NEVER does) of his arm around a rando girl and the hearts Connie dyed into his hair shaved off. so now Connie is heart broken because she thinks she just deserves to always be cheated on by the men she loves and he doesn’t deny it when he confronts Connie which…side note, they REALLY need to work on their communication. like she just said that he fucked someone else first chance he got (he didn’t) and then when her ex calls she lets Hux fuck her on her desk???? like girl get the facts first! AND THEN later Hux said that he didn’t sleep with that rando, he wanted to make Connie jealous and hurt her because he loves her and he was upset and Connie RIGHTFULLY says that you don’t hurt people you love and the next day she’s sleeping with him without an apology because she just needed to be with him. guuuuuuurl come ON 😩
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2025
One thing Naomi always does REALLY well is building the tension with our main couple through horny moments and banter. And this book is packed full of both! Hux & Connie had so much sexual tension I was quite literally fanning myself because the heat between them was SCORCHING. On top of this you have Hux who is actively going to therapy and working to improve himself after being sent to prison, and you have Connie who has her own baggage she’s working through. Overall, this was another banger from Naomi!! Honestly I’m not even shocked at how good this was. Naomi’s books deserve way more hype!
*I received an arc from the author in exchange for my honest review
*I received an arc from the author in exchange for my honest review
June 29, 2025
Meh. The first book in this series was freaky and I was expecting that again to carry most of the weight but we didn’t even get a tiny bit of that.
Overall I just feel like nothing really happened here. I didn’t see how they had any feelings for each other the whole time. The ex drama was boring and made it seem like our girl had no backbone.
I did like Huxley (while that’s a terrible name) finding himself again and reconnecting with his siblings after prison
Overall I just feel like nothing really happened here. I didn’t see how they had any feelings for each other the whole time. The ex drama was boring and made it seem like our girl had no backbone.
I did like Huxley (while that’s a terrible name) finding himself again and reconnecting with his siblings after prison
June 12, 2025
I want to start this review by saying that On The Line changed something in my brain chemistry and I have high hopes for Play The Part because of that. Something about this combination of trust fund baby x roughed up ex-con is so incredibly hot, so I cannot believe it would disappoint me - and as you can tell by my rating it definitely didn’t.
Not even five chapters in I already wanted to hug them both, which tells you all you need about my emotional attachment to these fictional characters. Their mutual attraction was undeniable but so were their self-sabotaging tendencies, so the disdain they covered their feelings with made me want to lock them in a room together until they finally *communicated*. On the other hand, this was a wonderful opportunity for personal growth, and I loved how they both grasped it with both hands - especially Huxley. We love a man that goes to therapy. He's such a good boy.
I’m not sure how she does it but Naomi’s stories turn me more and more into Jimbo. I get emotionally attached and I cry for all the things; the bad parts, but especially the happy parts get me. Somehow, through her writing, Naomi manages to put her grabby little hand in your chest and squeeze your heart in a way you cannot forget, and it makes her undeniably one of my favourite authors.
P.S. Charlie; Tokyo Drift is my favourite as well!
Not even five chapters in I already wanted to hug them both, which tells you all you need about my emotional attachment to these fictional characters. Their mutual attraction was undeniable but so were their self-sabotaging tendencies, so the disdain they covered their feelings with made me want to lock them in a room together until they finally *communicated*. On the other hand, this was a wonderful opportunity for personal growth, and I loved how they both grasped it with both hands - especially Huxley. We love a man that goes to therapy. He's such a good boy.
I’m not sure how she does it but Naomi’s stories turn me more and more into Jimbo. I get emotionally attached and I cry for all the things; the bad parts, but especially the happy parts get me. Somehow, through her writing, Naomi manages to put her grabby little hand in your chest and squeeze your heart in a way you cannot forget, and it makes her undeniably one of my favourite authors.
P.S. Charlie; Tokyo Drift is my favourite as well!
July 16, 2025
I really loved Book 1 in this series, but I just never really got into this one as much. I loved the angst and the longing between these characters, but my issue was that I didn’t believe the strong attraction from the MMC’s end. I definitely thought that there was more to what had happened previously to make him so in love with her. And the FMC just frustrated me so much.
I will say that I loved how messy these two were. That was my favorite part of this book.
I will say that I loved how messy these two were. That was my favorite part of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2025
If you write a Sagittarius FMC who hates to cry, is devious and fun and also has commitment issues? HEY HI HELLO- its me in redhead form….aka Connie Broadbent.
Connie meets Huxley, the younger McKenna brother at James and Ozzy’s engagement party. A quick bathroom rendezvous ensues with her leaving him wanting more and her returning to the glitz and the glam of LA life, until a betrayal leads her back home to Marsford Bay. Running into Huxley again sparks feelings that Connie tried to suppress and Huxley can’t hide from especially when the two begrudgingly start working together. As both Connie and Huxley work through their commitment and abandonment issues as well as their strong desire to not talk things out- just to fight and then f*ck- the mess these two create not only for themselves but for each other kept me coming back for more and wanting more than anything for them to both just let the love happen!!!
When Naomi said Connie and Huxley were messy- she was not exaggerating. These two are a disaster of epic proportions but in the most endearing way. I loved both of their growth and development throughout this story and how they navigated not only each other but everyone else in their orbit. Hux is the biggest sweetest growliest teddy bear and the way he loved Connie was something else. Connie- girl I see you. You can do no wrong in my eyes. It just took you little bit to realize what you needed all along was right in front of you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I swear anything that this woman writes is absolutely the most enchanting and enthralling stories you will ever read. The way these books and these characters immediately suck you in and make you forget you are even reading is something that is ✨UNMATCHED✨
Connie meets Huxley, the younger McKenna brother at James and Ozzy’s engagement party. A quick bathroom rendezvous ensues with her leaving him wanting more and her returning to the glitz and the glam of LA life, until a betrayal leads her back home to Marsford Bay. Running into Huxley again sparks feelings that Connie tried to suppress and Huxley can’t hide from especially when the two begrudgingly start working together. As both Connie and Huxley work through their commitment and abandonment issues as well as their strong desire to not talk things out- just to fight and then f*ck- the mess these two create not only for themselves but for each other kept me coming back for more and wanting more than anything for them to both just let the love happen!!!
When Naomi said Connie and Huxley were messy- she was not exaggerating. These two are a disaster of epic proportions but in the most endearing way. I loved both of their growth and development throughout this story and how they navigated not only each other but everyone else in their orbit. Hux is the biggest sweetest growliest teddy bear and the way he loved Connie was something else. Connie- girl I see you. You can do no wrong in my eyes. It just took you little bit to realize what you needed all along was right in front of you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I swear anything that this woman writes is absolutely the most enchanting and enthralling stories you will ever read. The way these books and these characters immediately suck you in and make you forget you are even reading is something that is ✨UNMATCHED✨
June 13, 2025
Whew, this one was Mess-sy. The main characters were awful at communicating (Soph the unofficial therapist to the rescue) and pretty self sabotaging, but honestly that just made them seem more real.
I think this might be the most realistic romance I've read, they weren't perfect, they were incredibly messy, and a little bit childish, but aren't we all?
Huxley has been dealt a rough hand in life, and spending basically all of his adult life so far in prison hasn't helped the way he sees the world. I just wanted someone to give him a cuddle 🤗
I'm really enjoying being in Marsford Bay and hope we get to spend some more time there in a future book
I think this might be the most realistic romance I've read, they weren't perfect, they were incredibly messy, and a little bit childish, but aren't we all?
Huxley has been dealt a rough hand in life, and spending basically all of his adult life so far in prison hasn't helped the way he sees the world. I just wanted someone to give him a cuddle 🤗
I'm really enjoying being in Marsford Bay and hope we get to spend some more time there in a future book
June 14, 2025
Mi amor incondicional 🤝 libros que mencionan mínimamente los teatros o musicales.
....
4.2/5 estrellas de vuestra obsesionada con los musicales
Canción a la que me recuerda: "Moon" - Reneé Rapp.
Bueno,si estás buscando un libro para leer rápido, pero que te parta un poquito el alma; ¡felicidades, lo has encontrado! Y no os voy a mentir, me ha caído una que otra lagrimilla leyéndo el final <\3
tropes que puedes encontrar en Play the part (el menú viene fuerte lol):
-"Good boy"
-grumpy x sunshine
-forced proximity
-It has always been you
-he falls first and harder
-“I didn't know where else to go”
-(revserse) age gap - ella es la mayor
-exconvict
-OWD/OMD (other man/woman drama)
-theatre girlie
-slow burn (kinda)
-miscommunication+ therapy rep
-spiceeeee (🌶️🌶️.5/5)
mode+ vibes generales:
El libro al principio nos presenta los dos personajes principales: Huxley y Connie. Narra como estos dos,tras una noche loca de pasión tras liarse en el baño de un restaurante el mismo día que la fiesta de compromiso de Jamie (mejor amiga de Connie) y Ozzy (hermano de Huxley), se separan completamente, huyendo del "error" que han cometido.
Huxley justo acaba de salir de la cárcel tras estar sus primeros años de adultez encerrado por robar un coche y tener muy mala suerte. Connie solo quiere encontrar su sitio en LA, poder escribir sus teatros y seguir adelante con su carrera.
Y obvio, como todo el mundo espera,el destino va a volver a unir a Huxley y a Connie algo va a hacer que Huxley y Connie se reencuentren, y esta vez no podrán escapar el uno del otro tan fácilmente.
No os voy a mentir, no soy una lectora aficionda al romance... o a personajes como Huxley... o como Connie... Creo que también debería decir que Play the Part es un spin off de un libro que no me he leído, ¿no?...
Como véis yo empecé el libro con un pleno de mínima responsabilidad y con 0 conocimiento de que iba, lol, pero sin ninguna duda ha acabado sorprendiéndome muchísimo. Tanto toda la representación de la salud mental, el cómo afrontar las decisiones tomadas y luchar por lo que quieres son puntos clave en este libro (y no os voy a mentir, está muy bien hecho).
Es un libro bastante intenso en cuanto a emociones se trata y lo que van sufriendo los personajes, así que os recomiendo leer los TW antes de empezarlo; pero tampoco pierde esa parte divertida y picarona que podemos encontrar en todos los libros de Naomi Loud.
opinión personal - sin spoilers:
Vale, el libro comienza fuerte. Es un primer capítulo bastante intenso el cual te muestra la faceta más ocura de Huxley lo que ha tenido que pasar en prisión. Y ya, a partir de ahí, te engancha y no puedes soltarlo. Hubo partes en la que conecté más, otras en menos; pero lo importante es que realmente me interesaba MUCHO lo que iba a suceder (así que ahí estuve yo hasta las 2 de la mañana leyendo dos días seguidos)
Además, la dinámica entre los protas es muy buena. La tensión se siente en el ambiente desde el incio y, aunque ya sabes cómo va a terminar, te emocionas igualmente al ver qué sucede.
Y ya que estamamos hablando de la relación y los personajes, ahondemos más en esto.
personajes principales:
Connie me ha EN CAN TA DO. Al principio no conecté con ella, pero mediante vas descubriendo más facetas y la tensió aumenta, conoces a un FMC que la rompe y devora completamente. Además, ya se aprecia ver en libros donde las protagonistas FEMENINAS son aquellas que toman las riendas en cuanto a lo sensual. Sigue con ese dirty talk, devoraste amiga. #womeninmalefields
Aunque no os voy a mentir, no fueron una o dos las únicas veces que quise gritarle un "AMIGA, DATE CUENTA" a la cara. Aunque bueno, eso ya lo hizo Huxley cuando le gritó te quiero bajo la lluvia al estilo Mr Darcy, ¿no? -esto es una razón 100% válida para leer el libro-.
Huxley también me ha gustado mucho. Es el típico personaje que intenta resurgir de su pasado tras hacer una cagada apoteósica. Y obviamente necesitará toda la ayuda necesaria para salir del pozo -por favor, vayan a terapia todos los personajes de este libro, gracias-
Es un personaje gris, grumpy y con tatuajes -sí. hacía falta mencionarlo.- el cual realmente pone a prueba la barrera entre lo "bueno" y lo "malo" como si fuera una comba para saltar en patio. Aunque bueno, no os voy a mentir, eso nos da mucho juego y muchos grises en la historia.
Y hablando de tensión.... lo diré siempre. Naomi Loud tiene las mejores escenas spicy del género . Y punch.
Son sensuales, tienen pasión y no le importa salirse de lo habitual y explorar nuevos kinks etc... Vamos, que no están sacadas de un libro de biología ni mucho menos.
cosas que no me han gustado:
Solo hay una cosa que realmente no me ha gustado y creo que a los lectores en general tmpc les gustará... el trope de misscommunication.
Totalmente necesario? Sí, es lo que le da más chica al asunto. Que no lo aguanto porque son personas adultas que no se hablan y así no arreglan sus problemas? También.
Y eso de lo único que me puedo quejar, la verdad. El resto me ha gustado mucho.
Es un muy buen libro (y lo digo yo, que el romance no es para nada mi género favorito).
Lo he disfutado leyendo, me he reído, sorprendido y llorado un poquito.
Además, está bien que se hable a veces de los temas abordados en PTP, da alivio al corazón ver como los personajes sanan poco a poco.
Este libro se lo recomiendo TOTALMENTE a todos los hermanos mayores + people pleaser. Agarraros que vienen curvas.
*I received an arc from the author in exchange for my honest review/ He recibido una arc por parte de Naomi Loud a cambio de una reseña honesta por mi parte.*
....
4.2/5 estrellas de vuestra obsesionada con los musicales
Canción a la que me recuerda: "Moon" - Reneé Rapp.
But we're looking at the same moon,
Wonder if you miss me too
When we're looking at the same moon,
How can I be dead to you
When we're looking at the same moon?
Bueno,si estás buscando un libro para leer rápido, pero que te parta un poquito el alma; ¡felicidades, lo has encontrado! Y no os voy a mentir, me ha caído una que otra lagrimilla leyéndo el final <\3
tropes que puedes encontrar en Play the part (el menú viene fuerte lol):
-"Good boy"
-grumpy x sunshine
-forced proximity
-It has always been you
-he falls first and harder
-“I didn't know where else to go”
-(revserse) age gap - ella es la mayor
-exconvict
-OWD/OMD (other man/woman drama)
-theatre girlie
-slow burn (kinda)
-miscommunication+ therapy rep
-spiceeeee (🌶️🌶️.5/5)
mode+ vibes generales:
El libro al principio nos presenta los dos personajes principales: Huxley y Connie. Narra como estos dos,
Huxley justo acaba de salir de la cárcel tras estar sus primeros años de adultez encerrado por robar un coche y tener muy mala suerte. Connie solo quiere encontrar su sitio en LA, poder escribir sus teatros y seguir adelante con su carrera.
Y obvio, como todo el mundo espera,
"I'd seek eternal life if it meant staying in this moment with him forever."
No os voy a mentir, no soy una lectora aficionda al romance... o a personajes como Huxley... o como Connie... Creo que también debería decir que Play the Part es un spin off de un libro que no me he leído, ¿no?...
Como véis yo empecé el libro con un pleno de mínima responsabilidad y con 0 conocimiento de que iba, lol, pero sin ninguna duda ha acabado sorprendiéndome muchísimo. Tanto toda la representación de la salud mental, el cómo afrontar las decisiones tomadas y luchar por lo que quieres son puntos clave en este libro (y no os voy a mentir, está muy bien hecho).
Es un libro bastante intenso en cuanto a emociones se trata y lo que van sufriendo los personajes, así que os recomiendo leer los TW antes de empezarlo; pero tampoco pierde esa parte divertida y picarona que podemos encontrar en todos los libros de Naomi Loud.
opinión personal - sin spoilers:
Vale, el libro comienza fuerte. Es un primer capítulo bastante intenso el cual te muestra la faceta más ocura de Huxley lo que ha tenido que pasar en prisión. Y ya, a partir de ahí, te engancha y no puedes soltarlo. Hubo partes en la que conecté más, otras en menos; pero lo importante es que realmente me interesaba MUCHO lo que iba a suceder (así que ahí estuve yo hasta las 2 de la mañana leyendo dos días seguidos)
Además, la dinámica entre los protas es muy buena. La tensión se siente en el ambiente desde el incio y, aunque ya sabes cómo va a terminar, te emocionas igualmente al ver qué sucede.
Y ya que estamamos hablando de la relación y los personajes, ahondemos más en esto.
"I'm grateful for DK.
Freedom.
My vinyl collection.
And you.
I'm grateful for you."
personajes principales:
Connie me ha EN CAN TA DO. Al principio no conecté con ella, pero mediante vas descubriendo más facetas y la tensió aumenta, conoces a un FMC que la rompe y devora completamente. Además, ya se aprecia ver en libros donde las protagonistas FEMENINAS son aquellas que toman las riendas en cuanto a lo sensual. Sigue con ese dirty talk, devoraste amiga. #womeninmalefields
Aunque no os voy a mentir, no fueron una o dos las únicas veces que quise gritarle un "AMIGA, DATE CUENTA" a la cara. Aunque bueno, eso ya lo hizo Huxley cuando le gritó te quiero bajo la lluvia al estilo Mr Darcy, ¿no? -esto es una razón 100% válida para leer el libro-.
Huxley también me ha gustado mucho. Es el típico personaje que intenta resurgir de su pasado tras hacer una cagada apoteósica. Y obviamente necesitará toda la ayuda necesaria para salir del pozo -por favor, vayan a terapia todos los personajes de este libro, gracias-
Es un personaje gris, grumpy y con tatuajes -sí. hacía falta mencionarlo.- el cual realmente pone a prueba la barrera entre lo "bueno" y lo "malo" como si fuera una comba para saltar en patio. Aunque bueno, no os voy a mentir, eso nos da mucho juego y muchos grises en la historia.
"I still don't know if I believe in fate like Connie does.
But right now, I believe in myself. And that's a powerful fucking thing."
Y hablando de tensión.... lo diré siempre. Naomi Loud tiene las mejores escenas spicy del género . Y punch.
Son sensuales, tienen pasión y no le importa salirse de lo habitual y explorar nuevos kinks etc... Vamos, que no están sacadas de un libro de biología ni mucho menos.
"You are being so good for me. Such a good boy for me."
cosas que no me han gustado:
Solo hay una cosa que realmente no me ha gustado y creo que a los lectores en general tmpc les gustará... el trope de misscommunication.
Totalmente necesario? Sí, es lo que le da más chica al asunto. Que no lo aguanto porque son personas adultas que no se hablan y así no arreglan sus problemas? También.
Y eso de lo único que me puedo quejar, la verdad. El resto me ha gustado mucho.
Es un muy buen libro (y lo digo yo, que el romance no es para nada mi género favorito).
Lo he disfutado leyendo, me he reído, sorprendido y llorado un poquito.
Además, está bien que se hable a veces de los temas abordados en PTP, da alivio al corazón ver como los personajes sanan poco a poco.
Este libro se lo recomiendo TOTALMENTE a todos los hermanos mayores + people pleaser. Agarraros que vienen curvas.
"I want to be there for him like you were there for me - even when i didn't want you to be. And so I guess what I'm trying to say is... Thank you for never giving up on me"
"I didn't realize how much I needed to hear you say that until just now."
*I received an arc from the author in exchange for my honest review/ He recibido una arc por parte de Naomi Loud a cambio de una reseña honesta por mi parte.*
June 25, 2025
4.25/5⭐️ 2.5/5🌶️ 0/5😢
Ladies & gents we’re back in Marsford Bay and ya girl couldn’t be happier after first falling in love with Ozzy & James in On The Line.
Play The Part opens with Huxley and Connie struggling with their own baggage after an ill-timed one night stand together. Their toxic “will-they-won’t-they” mess fest was SO ADDICTIVE and their jealous antics had me desperate and begging for them to get together. The story was perfectly balanced with lots sweet and spicy moments, but ultimately I loved watching them grow and learn from their mistakes to be what one another needed.
tropes & themes
🎭 ex-con x ex-Hollywood starlet
🎭 one night stand
🎭 best friend’s boyfriend’s brother 😆
🎭 grumpy x sunshine
🎭 “good boy”
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Ladies & gents we’re back in Marsford Bay and ya girl couldn’t be happier after first falling in love with Ozzy & James in On The Line.
Play The Part opens with Huxley and Connie struggling with their own baggage after an ill-timed one night stand together. Their toxic “will-they-won’t-they” mess fest was SO ADDICTIVE and their jealous antics had me desperate and begging for them to get together. The story was perfectly balanced with lots sweet and spicy moments, but ultimately I loved watching them grow and learn from their mistakes to be what one another needed.
tropes & themes
🎭 ex-con x ex-Hollywood starlet
🎭 one night stand
🎭 best friend’s boyfriend’s brother 😆
🎭 grumpy x sunshine
🎭 “good boy”
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2025
Huxley McKenna, best boy ever.
Y’all this book is so good. I’m a Naomi Loud fan always.
There’s actually nothing I love more than a “good boy” moment and Play the Part has so many I was just a puddle on the floor. Huxley is so gone over Connie that boy would have barked. And same, tbh.
This book is messy in the best ways possible. Their mess is so freaking hot. I’m obsessed.
I absolutely loved seeing James and Ozzy and the McKenna siblings in this book. Seriously hoping for a Sophia story next!!
I think that Play the Part was the best follow up to On the Line. Absolutely perfect.
Thank you to Naomi Loud for the ARC - it’s always such a pleasure to read your books!
Y’all this book is so good. I’m a Naomi Loud fan always.
There’s actually nothing I love more than a “good boy” moment and Play the Part has so many I was just a puddle on the floor. Huxley is so gone over Connie that boy would have barked. And same, tbh.
This book is messy in the best ways possible. Their mess is so freaking hot. I’m obsessed.
I absolutely loved seeing James and Ozzy and the McKenna siblings in this book. Seriously hoping for a Sophia story next!!
I think that Play the Part was the best follow up to On the Line. Absolutely perfect.
Thank you to Naomi Loud for the ARC - it’s always such a pleasure to read your books!
June 18, 2025
I haven’t stopped thinking about this book since I devoured it in a single day. This is the second interconnected standalone novel in Naomi Loud’s Marsford Bay series. It follows the story of Ozzy’s brother, Huxley, and James’ best friend, Connie. Hux and Connie are (and I say this with love) such a mess. They have so much growth throughout the book and I love where they end up.
As a secret lovergirl libra, I related to Huxley on a spiritual level. Connie is so funny, and as James so delicately stated, Connie is allergic to impulse control, which I also get. The situationship shenanigans and banter were top-notch. The mutual pining is chef’s kiss.
I LOVED this book. I ate it up and am now begging for seconds (thirds??). I’ll be recommending this book to anyone who will listen. Naomi is the queen of angst and pining, and I’m her most loyal subject.
Thank you for the ARC, Naomi!
As a secret lovergirl libra, I related to Huxley on a spiritual level. Connie is so funny, and as James so delicately stated, Connie is allergic to impulse control, which I also get. The situationship shenanigans and banter were top-notch. The mutual pining is chef’s kiss.
I LOVED this book. I ate it up and am now begging for seconds (thirds??). I’ll be recommending this book to anyone who will listen. Naomi is the queen of angst and pining, and I’m her most loyal subject.
Thank you for the ARC, Naomi!
June 16, 2025
The tension. The chemistry. The MESS. The SPICE.
I love Naomi’s writing. Only she could make me want to put up with these 2. The “good boy” didn’t hurt either.
The draaammmaa. I love mess and drama, so wasn’t an issue for me. I was eating it up. I struggled a bit with Connie’s privilege, but that’s mostly bc I’m a jealous bitch.
Hux on the other hand was so lovable. Even when he was an angry little snapping turtle. Plus he’s a cat dad who goes to therapy. There is no hating him.
The character growth for them both was so good. This was overall a really good contemporary romance. I don’t read them often, but when I do they’re by Naomi Loud.
I love Naomi’s writing. Only she could make me want to put up with these 2. The “good boy” didn’t hurt either.
The draaammmaa. I love mess and drama, so wasn’t an issue for me. I was eating it up. I struggled a bit with Connie’s privilege, but that’s mostly bc I’m a jealous bitch.
Hux on the other hand was so lovable. Even when he was an angry little snapping turtle. Plus he’s a cat dad who goes to therapy. There is no hating him.
The character growth for them both was so good. This was overall a really good contemporary romance. I don’t read them often, but when I do they’re by Naomi Loud.
October 29, 2025
I really enjoyed Huxley and Connie's story! Their banter and tension were everything. The lack of communication trope was strong in this one, but it had a great payoff in the end. Huxley's growth was one of my favorite parts of the book. Seeing him slowly build his sense of self-worth after everything he's been through was so moving and Connie was the perfect balance for him, and their dynamic felt so real. I loved this one just as much as I loved On The Line. 🤍
“𝗜’𝘃𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗳𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗼𝘆. 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱, 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗲.”
“𝗜’𝘃𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗳𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗼𝘆. 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱, 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗲.”
June 26, 2025
This book just became one of my top reads of the year! I laughed, I cried, I had all the feels. Connie is so real and relatable—I definitely saw pieces of myself in her. And HUX??? The growth!! The man you’ve become!! 😭
Naomi wrote these characters with so much heart, I’m still not over it!!! Play the Part is the kind of book you finish and immediately want to flip back to your favorite scenes. BRB, rereading already. 💖 Like I have highlighted so many great things in this book!
Thank you, Naomi, for the ARC—what an absolute joy this was to read! If you love character-driven romances with humor, heart, and healing—go grab this one now!
Naomi wrote these characters with so much heart, I’m still not over it!!! Play the Part is the kind of book you finish and immediately want to flip back to your favorite scenes. BRB, rereading already. 💖 Like I have highlighted so many great things in this book!
Thank you, Naomi, for the ARC—what an absolute joy this was to read! If you love character-driven romances with humor, heart, and healing—go grab this one now!
June 29, 2025
This is probably one of the most realistic romance books I’ve read. It portrayed how relationships can be difficult and messy. Connie and Huxley frustrated me at times but I enjoyed their character development and the tension between them. It showed the reality of PTSD and grief which added depth to the story. I recommend this book.
June 24, 2025
No one does tension like Naomi. I didn’t think I was going to like Huxley as much as Ozzy, but I was so wrong. He’s such a good boy. 🤭
You can also tell she puts so much thought and care into the mental health aspects of her stories. Thank you for the ARC!
You can also tell she puts so much thought and care into the mental health aspects of her stories. Thank you for the ARC!
June 23, 2025
Rating: 4,5/5 stars
Oh Huxley and Connie, these two just stole my heart. Play the Part is a romance in it’s own league. I can’t really put into words how this felt for me while reading. It was a quiet and small romance, but at the same time with very big feelings. This was such a joy to read. You know what they say about hurt people hurting people? Well, this is precisely it. Two people who are trying to cope with life after being hurt, but both in denial that they need to take the time to press the pause button and look back, process it all, before being able to move on.
I adore a romance where it starts with instalust and then unfolds with a slowburn romance, and this just fit perfectly. The constant push and pull Huxley and Connie had was so well written. It was filled with small elements that made me think of my own relationship development with my husband and it made me laugh so much. I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time reading it, and I tried my best to take my time reading too. I wanted to instantly devour this story, but also didn’t want to let Connie and Huxley go. I don’t want to add a lot in this review about the story itself, because frankly, I wouldn’t do it any justice.
Ofcourse we also see Ozzy and James again, not only that, but also a grown up Sophia who might be the one that will have the biggest emotional journey ahead of her (this is me begging Naomi to write her story for the record).
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC.
Oh Huxley and Connie, these two just stole my heart. Play the Part is a romance in it’s own league. I can’t really put into words how this felt for me while reading. It was a quiet and small romance, but at the same time with very big feelings. This was such a joy to read. You know what they say about hurt people hurting people? Well, this is precisely it. Two people who are trying to cope with life after being hurt, but both in denial that they need to take the time to press the pause button and look back, process it all, before being able to move on.
I adore a romance where it starts with instalust and then unfolds with a slowburn romance, and this just fit perfectly. The constant push and pull Huxley and Connie had was so well written. It was filled with small elements that made me think of my own relationship development with my husband and it made me laugh so much. I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time reading it, and I tried my best to take my time reading too. I wanted to instantly devour this story, but also didn’t want to let Connie and Huxley go. I don’t want to add a lot in this review about the story itself, because frankly, I wouldn’t do it any justice.
Ofcourse we also see Ozzy and James again, not only that, but also a grown up Sophia who might be the one that will have the biggest emotional journey ahead of her (this is me begging Naomi to write her story for the record).
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC.
June 13, 2025
Oh, I just love these messy babes so much! Connie and Huxley sucked me in right away. Naomi’s characters always have a level of depth and realness to them that is unmatched. They’re relatable in their experiences and imperfections and so damn enjoyable to read about.
I’m a sucker for the damaged ones. As always, the tension and angst was on point. The spice had me kicking my feet and the journey to their HEA was such a fun experience.
“Sʜᴇ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏs ᴛᴇʟʟs ᴍᴇ I ʀᴇᴍɪɴᴅ ʜᴇʀ ᴏꜰ Kᴀʀᴇᴠ … ᴡʜᴀᴛᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰᴜᴄᴋ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴍᴇᴀɴs.“
^^ Sophia is the MVP - she’s got Hux’s number all day.
I’m a sucker for the damaged ones. As always, the tension and angst was on point. The spice had me kicking my feet and the journey to their HEA was such a fun experience.
“Sʜᴇ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏs ᴛᴇʟʟs ᴍᴇ I ʀᴇᴍɪɴᴅ ʜᴇʀ ᴏꜰ Kᴀʀᴇᴠ … ᴡʜᴀᴛᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰᴜᴄᴋ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴍᴇᴀɴs.“
^^ Sophia is the MVP - she’s got Hux’s number all day.
July 9, 2025
They were both kinda childish up until the end which was disappointing
September 1, 2025
connie was a terrible person and hux had the personality of a stale potato chips
July 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5
"If pretending to be someone I’m not makes Connie finally warm up to me, then fine—I’ll play the part." ‐ Huxley
In classic Naomi Loud style, she delivered another amazing novel! Therefore, it's no surprise that I was immediately drawn into Connie's (FMC) and Huxley's (MMC) story. It was great to dive back into Marsford Bay—seeing familiar characters and their relationship dynamics with the main characters. Play The Part is an interconnected standalone that can be read on its own, however, I highly recommend reading book 1, On The Line. You'll meet Huxley's big brother, Ozzy and James (Connie's best friend).
"God, his smile. It’s calculated and inexplicably delicious. It’s as if he thinks he’s won something unsaid between us. Little f*cker." - Connie
Play The Part is messy (and itsy bitsy toxic)— Connie and Hux might fail in the communication department, but they have no problems *expressing* themselves physically. The angst (ahh.. love a good push and pull), banter, and chemistry are top-tier! And the sexual tension... *whew* it was scorching between them!! Especially the little games they played 😏 (jealousy as foreplay... I didn't realise it could be so good and hot 🤭)
They might be from different walks of life, yet, Connie and Hux are so similar—instead of fixing their problems, they would rather ignore them, hence, the lack of communication. Even with their friends or family members, Connie and Huxley would shut down conversations about said problems.
"Anger and alienation are a heavy armor I’ve grown fond of carrying."- Huxley
Connie and Huxley carry quite a bit of emotional baggage. Clinging to his anger as a shield, Huxley doesn't allow anyone to get too close to him. Huxley has a habit of self-sabotaging—automatically jumping to conclusions when he doesn't even have the full picture. Slightly impulsive, Connie can make rash decisions. Bottling up her emotions, Connie avoids certain things, such as finding closure after her breakup.
"I suddenly feel vulnerable. As if he’s asking for more of me. As if he’s asking me to strip naked, but this time he wants to see the inside of me." ‐ Connie
Naomi aced the mental health representation! Huxley's trauma and struggles with anxiety and getting the professional help that he desperately needed are well portrayed. Who knew that Huxley was such a romantic at heart? It was so cute to witness Hux's romantic gestures.
I loved Sophia! In a way, she was sort of the designated therapist 😆 giving solicited or unsolicited advice to Hux and Connie, setting them straight, so to speak. I hope we'll get to see more of her, maybe in her own book.
After a very public, nasty and humiliating breakup, Hollywood starlet Connie packs up her bags and heads back to Marsford Bay. Recently released from prison, Huxley is still trying to adjust to his new life—his newly gained freedom. Connie and Huxley haven't seen each other since they hooked up at an engagement party. Things are awkward between them, but they have to push through it because Connie and Huxley are now in each other's lives more than ever. As they try to find common ground, the dormant attraction begins to rekindle.
*I received an ARC in exchange for honest review
What to expect:
- Interconnected standalone
- Contemporary romance
- Best friend's fiancé’s brother
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Ex-con MMC
- Hollywood starlet FMC
- One night stand
- Messy (and a little toxic)
- Situationship
- Mutal pinning
- Snowed in/forced proximity
- Grovelling
- Mental health rep
- Angst
- Banter
- "Good boy"
TWs/CWs
(Please check the author's note for the full TWs/CWs list)
- OWD/OMD
- Cheating (not by the main couple)
- Prison environment
- Anxiety/panic attacks
- Mentions of alcohol and drug use
- PTSD
- Mentions of loss of a loved one and s*icide
"If pretending to be someone I’m not makes Connie finally warm up to me, then fine—I’ll play the part." ‐ Huxley
In classic Naomi Loud style, she delivered another amazing novel! Therefore, it's no surprise that I was immediately drawn into Connie's (FMC) and Huxley's (MMC) story. It was great to dive back into Marsford Bay—seeing familiar characters and their relationship dynamics with the main characters. Play The Part is an interconnected standalone that can be read on its own, however, I highly recommend reading book 1, On The Line. You'll meet Huxley's big brother, Ozzy and James (Connie's best friend).
"God, his smile. It’s calculated and inexplicably delicious. It’s as if he thinks he’s won something unsaid between us. Little f*cker." - Connie
Play The Part is messy (and itsy bitsy toxic)— Connie and Hux might fail in the communication department, but they have no problems *expressing* themselves physically. The angst (ahh.. love a good push and pull), banter, and chemistry are top-tier! And the sexual tension... *whew* it was scorching between them!! Especially the little games they played 😏 (jealousy as foreplay... I didn't realise it could be so good and hot 🤭)
They might be from different walks of life, yet, Connie and Hux are so similar—instead of fixing their problems, they would rather ignore them, hence, the lack of communication. Even with their friends or family members, Connie and Huxley would shut down conversations about said problems.
"Anger and alienation are a heavy armor I’ve grown fond of carrying."- Huxley
Connie and Huxley carry quite a bit of emotional baggage. Clinging to his anger as a shield, Huxley doesn't allow anyone to get too close to him. Huxley has a habit of self-sabotaging—automatically jumping to conclusions when he doesn't even have the full picture. Slightly impulsive, Connie can make rash decisions. Bottling up her emotions, Connie avoids certain things, such as finding closure after her breakup.
"I suddenly feel vulnerable. As if he’s asking for more of me. As if he’s asking me to strip naked, but this time he wants to see the inside of me." ‐ Connie
Naomi aced the mental health representation! Huxley's trauma and struggles with anxiety and getting the professional help that he desperately needed are well portrayed. Who knew that Huxley was such a romantic at heart? It was so cute to witness Hux's romantic gestures.
I loved Sophia! In a way, she was sort of the designated therapist 😆 giving solicited or unsolicited advice to Hux and Connie, setting them straight, so to speak. I hope we'll get to see more of her, maybe in her own book.
After a very public, nasty and humiliating breakup, Hollywood starlet Connie packs up her bags and heads back to Marsford Bay. Recently released from prison, Huxley is still trying to adjust to his new life—his newly gained freedom. Connie and Huxley haven't seen each other since they hooked up at an engagement party. Things are awkward between them, but they have to push through it because Connie and Huxley are now in each other's lives more than ever. As they try to find common ground, the dormant attraction begins to rekindle.
*I received an ARC in exchange for honest review
What to expect:
- Interconnected standalone
- Contemporary romance
- Best friend's fiancé’s brother
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Ex-con MMC
- Hollywood starlet FMC
- One night stand
- Messy (and a little toxic)
- Situationship
- Mutal pinning
- Snowed in/forced proximity
- Grovelling
- Mental health rep
- Angst
- Banter
- "Good boy"
TWs/CWs
(Please check the author's note for the full TWs/CWs list)
- OWD/OMD
- Cheating (not by the main couple)
- Prison environment
- Anxiety/panic attacks
- Mentions of alcohol and drug use
- PTSD
- Mentions of loss of a loved one and s*icide
June 27, 2025
4✨
BOOK II | MARSFORD BAY
Oh the drama, drama, drama! (And oh my, is it good!)
Author Naomi Loud has delivered yet another attractive romance which showcases the chaotic nature of love with an honest and thoughtful focus. Pulling back the emotional curtain on modern affairs of the heart, PLAY THE PART, Loud's latest release in the Marsford Bay series beautifully centers a pair of charismatic characters who attempt to seek a worthy romantic connection beyond the margins they've set for themselves.
A modern tale of love that explores a fierce attraction between two wildly opposing personalities, this novel skillfully charts the twisted path of love and the deeply resonating self doubts that unknowingly sabotage one's personal pursuits of happiness. The dual narrative model of this narrative gives such a generous peek into Connie and Huxley’s muddled minds and their often misguided motivations and impulses. Experiencing an array of tragic experiences and upsets within their own stories, these two bring their own brand of brokenness into their shared bond which creates a wildly messy love story that breathes honestly at every barbed turn.
Every time I pick up a Loud novel, I'm consistently promised an emotionally-layered account colored by a set of bold characters who love in a manner that feels richly authentic and that is once again the case in Play The Part. Connie and Huxley are revealed in a manner that calls upon such strong emotional responses (oh how I wanted to scream at them both at some points!) and the personal advancement they each experience by the end is truly one of the best aspects of the novel. Every thorny interaction, heart-racing tension, and steamy union these two wonderfully frustrating characters endure is necessary in their journey together and is worthy every drop of confusion and hurt experienced along the way.
FINAL VERDICT // A beautifully tangled snapshot of contemporary romance that unexpectedly aims at the heart, Play The Part vividly examines the ever-complex layers of worthiness, trust, hope and most importantly, love. It is always a pleasure to visit the Loudverse as I'm always left adoring the honesty and emotions poured onto the pages of each of Loud's exceptionally written novels and Play the Part is yet another gem in her impressive deck of quality romances.
Many thanks to the lovely Naomi Loud for allowing me to ARC read Connie & Hux's love story -- how can we not all love this darling duo. All comments, thoughts, and final verdicts are freely and honestly shared.
PS. Dumpster Kitty may have secretly stolen the show in this story! 🐈⬛♥️
BOOK II | MARSFORD BAY
Oh the drama, drama, drama! (And oh my, is it good!)
Author Naomi Loud has delivered yet another attractive romance which showcases the chaotic nature of love with an honest and thoughtful focus. Pulling back the emotional curtain on modern affairs of the heart, PLAY THE PART, Loud's latest release in the Marsford Bay series beautifully centers a pair of charismatic characters who attempt to seek a worthy romantic connection beyond the margins they've set for themselves.
A modern tale of love that explores a fierce attraction between two wildly opposing personalities, this novel skillfully charts the twisted path of love and the deeply resonating self doubts that unknowingly sabotage one's personal pursuits of happiness. The dual narrative model of this narrative gives such a generous peek into Connie and Huxley’s muddled minds and their often misguided motivations and impulses. Experiencing an array of tragic experiences and upsets within their own stories, these two bring their own brand of brokenness into their shared bond which creates a wildly messy love story that breathes honestly at every barbed turn.
Every time I pick up a Loud novel, I'm consistently promised an emotionally-layered account colored by a set of bold characters who love in a manner that feels richly authentic and that is once again the case in Play The Part. Connie and Huxley are revealed in a manner that calls upon such strong emotional responses (oh how I wanted to scream at them both at some points!) and the personal advancement they each experience by the end is truly one of the best aspects of the novel. Every thorny interaction, heart-racing tension, and steamy union these two wonderfully frustrating characters endure is necessary in their journey together and is worthy every drop of confusion and hurt experienced along the way.
FINAL VERDICT // A beautifully tangled snapshot of contemporary romance that unexpectedly aims at the heart, Play The Part vividly examines the ever-complex layers of worthiness, trust, hope and most importantly, love. It is always a pleasure to visit the Loudverse as I'm always left adoring the honesty and emotions poured onto the pages of each of Loud's exceptionally written novels and Play the Part is yet another gem in her impressive deck of quality romances.
Many thanks to the lovely Naomi Loud for allowing me to ARC read Connie & Hux's love story -- how can we not all love this darling duo. All comments, thoughts, and final verdicts are freely and honestly shared.
PS. Dumpster Kitty may have secretly stolen the show in this story! 🐈⬛♥️
July 10, 2025
From the very first pages, the book pulls you in. I felt very invested in the story and the people in it. The emotional depth and the slow unraveling of the characters’ personal struggles are well written. There’s a sense of vulnerability that makes the characters feel real and relatable.
Connie, the ex-Hollywood star returning to her hometown, brings a very different kind of emotional complexity to the story. Watching her breathe life back into a rundown local theater is genuinely heartwarming.
What struck me most is how Naomi writes about Huxley’s panic attacks. They’re not just thrown in for dramatic effect, they’re written with a sensitivity that feels true to life. His anxiety is raw and physical, but it’s never treated as a weakness. It adds depth to his character and makes his journey, fresh from prison, more compelling.
Beyond Huxley, the book is filled with emotional nuance, believable dialogue, and characters that feel like real (and sometimes very annoying) people. I love Naomi’s ability to portray complex emotions without being overly dramatic. It’s easy to root for the main characters and get caught up in their world. The writing style feels authentic and raw, with just the right balance of humor and heart.
Play The Part is a solid 4-star read. It’s honest, heartfelt, and definitely worth picking up if you enjoy contemporary stories with emotional resonance.
Connie, the ex-Hollywood star returning to her hometown, brings a very different kind of emotional complexity to the story. Watching her breathe life back into a rundown local theater is genuinely heartwarming.
What struck me most is how Naomi writes about Huxley’s panic attacks. They’re not just thrown in for dramatic effect, they’re written with a sensitivity that feels true to life. His anxiety is raw and physical, but it’s never treated as a weakness. It adds depth to his character and makes his journey, fresh from prison, more compelling.
Beyond Huxley, the book is filled with emotional nuance, believable dialogue, and characters that feel like real (and sometimes very annoying) people. I love Naomi’s ability to portray complex emotions without being overly dramatic. It’s easy to root for the main characters and get caught up in their world. The writing style feels authentic and raw, with just the right balance of humor and heart.
Play The Part is a solid 4-star read. It’s honest, heartfelt, and definitely worth picking up if you enjoy contemporary stories with emotional resonance.
July 8, 2025
Nah but I actually loved this.
Ok but I didn't think I'd find myself falling for an ex-con who survives on cigarettes and pessimism? These two were the complete opposites - an ex-con and a trust fund baby but they were absolutely ELECTRIC together and deserve all the happiness, good coffee and flaky croissants that the world can offer.
Connie and Huxley - an absolute MESS but in some ways, actually so bloody realistic. I loved these two together so much. I found myself getting so incredibly attached to these two; I wanted to reach through the pages and just snuggle them. They both desperately needed it. Self-sabotage was a mutual middle name of these two and at times, I wanted to bang their heads together and just force them to TALK. Honestly, I do get it though. It bought some reality to the situation and bought to light that not every relationship is straightforward, not everyone has their shit together and sometimes we hurt the people we care abut the most, because we are hurting too. I loved the growth of these two; we love a man who tunes in to his emotions, and grasps the future he deserved with both hands.
There were so many special moments in this book, Naomi did a brilliant job of highlighting raw reality as well as sweet, tender moments between Connie and Huxley. I tell you, my belly absolutely dropped when Huxley quoted Shakespeare to Connie and he bought her a croissant. Huxley's soft and vulnerable side was so lovely, and the fact that he (they both) got the simple but beautiful life they deserved was everything.
4.5 stars. Add to your tbr if you like:
- ex-con x trust fund baby (influencer / actress also)
- best friend's brother in law
- previous ONS
- small reverse age gap (4 years)
- workplace romance
- forced proximity
Ok but I didn't think I'd find myself falling for an ex-con who survives on cigarettes and pessimism? These two were the complete opposites - an ex-con and a trust fund baby but they were absolutely ELECTRIC together and deserve all the happiness, good coffee and flaky croissants that the world can offer.
Connie and Huxley - an absolute MESS but in some ways, actually so bloody realistic. I loved these two together so much. I found myself getting so incredibly attached to these two; I wanted to reach through the pages and just snuggle them. They both desperately needed it. Self-sabotage was a mutual middle name of these two and at times, I wanted to bang their heads together and just force them to TALK. Honestly, I do get it though. It bought some reality to the situation and bought to light that not every relationship is straightforward, not everyone has their shit together and sometimes we hurt the people we care abut the most, because we are hurting too. I loved the growth of these two; we love a man who tunes in to his emotions, and grasps the future he deserved with both hands.
There were so many special moments in this book, Naomi did a brilliant job of highlighting raw reality as well as sweet, tender moments between Connie and Huxley. I tell you, my belly absolutely dropped when Huxley quoted Shakespeare to Connie and he bought her a croissant. Huxley's soft and vulnerable side was so lovely, and the fact that he (they both) got the simple but beautiful life they deserved was everything.
4.5 stars. Add to your tbr if you like:
- ex-con x trust fund baby (influencer / actress also)
- best friend's brother in law
- previous ONS
- small reverse age gap (4 years)
- workplace romance
- forced proximity
June 23, 2025
AHHHH! The scream I SCREAMED when I found out I was able to get the ARC for this. Thanks so much to Naomi & her team for this opportunity!
I want to start with the great things first!
Once again, I was deep into the angst that is Naomi’s characters and writing. So much back and forth, so much nail biting and screaming, “JUST DO IT ALREADY, FFS!!” It was messy and I couldn’t get enough of the chaos. Connie and Huxley are two complex characters that went hand-in-hand, each craving change— each wandering in mind and soul and found solace in each other.
I loved this book but I also found it difficult to connect to the MC’s. There wasn’t a whole lot of description of Huxley’s experience in prison and I would’ve liked to see more of how his trauma came to be. I would’ve also loved to see more sides of Connie. There wasn’t enough depth of her character for me.
I loved seeing all of the McKenna siblings again + James. ✨🥹 The family dysfunction and heartfelt moments made me laugh and tear up at the same time. I had so much fun with this and I can’t wait to read more of Naomi’s work!
I want to start with the great things first!
Once again, I was deep into the angst that is Naomi’s characters and writing. So much back and forth, so much nail biting and screaming, “JUST DO IT ALREADY, FFS!!” It was messy and I couldn’t get enough of the chaos. Connie and Huxley are two complex characters that went hand-in-hand, each craving change— each wandering in mind and soul and found solace in each other.
I loved this book but I also found it difficult to connect to the MC’s. There wasn’t a whole lot of description of Huxley’s experience in prison and I would’ve liked to see more of how his trauma came to be. I would’ve also loved to see more sides of Connie. There wasn’t enough depth of her character for me.
I loved seeing all of the McKenna siblings again + James. ✨🥹 The family dysfunction and heartfelt moments made me laugh and tear up at the same time. I had so much fun with this and I can’t wait to read more of Naomi’s work!
June 28, 2025
Guys. Do you ever get tired of how perfect romance novel MCs are for each other? Do you ever want a little more grit to your story? Like, he’s a felon, but not the billionaire mafia kind? And they could both use some therapy?
I honestly wasn’t sure if I’d be into this, BUT I WAS. I AM! I ate this book up.
Huxley has barely been out of a five-year prison stint when he hooks up with Connie. It’s a hot fvck and then she goes back to California and her semi-famous life there.
But a year later she’s back in Marsford Bay and she’s unavoidable. She’s the best friend of his brother’s fiancé and…his current boss. Their chemistry is palpable. And undeniable.
But they both have deep-seated issues. Huxley has major abandonment issues from his shitty childhood and Connie was recently cheated on by her longtime boyfriend. Will these two be able to get out of their own way to find that happily ever after with each other?
I was given the eARC by the author. All thoughts are mine alone.
#romancebooks #contemporaryromance #spicyromance #playthepart #naomiloud #bookrecs #bookreview #bookstagram
I honestly wasn’t sure if I’d be into this, BUT I WAS. I AM! I ate this book up.
Huxley has barely been out of a five-year prison stint when he hooks up with Connie. It’s a hot fvck and then she goes back to California and her semi-famous life there.
But a year later she’s back in Marsford Bay and she’s unavoidable. She’s the best friend of his brother’s fiancé and…his current boss. Their chemistry is palpable. And undeniable.
But they both have deep-seated issues. Huxley has major abandonment issues from his shitty childhood and Connie was recently cheated on by her longtime boyfriend. Will these two be able to get out of their own way to find that happily ever after with each other?
I was given the eARC by the author. All thoughts are mine alone.
#romancebooks #contemporaryromance #spicyromance #playthepart #naomiloud #bookrecs #bookreview #bookstagram
July 2, 2025
Another absolute amazing book by Naomi Loud, who's definitely one of those authors who writes and and I'll read it ..
Ill say it over and over, she'll always blows me away with her vocabulary, but the angst and plot is always so perfectly written and relateable that you can't help but fall into the story.
The tension between the FMC and MMC, Connie and Huxley, was thiicckk and delicious! I was entirely enthralled by both characters, separately and entwined.
Huxley, being an ex con so young and being the younger one in the equation made him a very interesting character, always unsure and fiery, but so quietly obsessed with Connie. I really enjoyed his growth through the book, it brought me to tears seeing his story wrap up.
I really liked Connie as a character, she was funny, confident, and admireable in the way she just went for what she wants. Her starlight status was a very interesting twist on the plot line, and herhidden insecurities were some so relateable that it was so easy to become a fan, cheering her on during her growth and success.
Thank you, Naomi Loud, for the opportunity for your ARC team, it's always such a pleasure to read any of your work.
Ill say it over and over, she'll always blows me away with her vocabulary, but the angst and plot is always so perfectly written and relateable that you can't help but fall into the story.
The tension between the FMC and MMC, Connie and Huxley, was thiicckk and delicious! I was entirely enthralled by both characters, separately and entwined.
Huxley, being an ex con so young and being the younger one in the equation made him a very interesting character, always unsure and fiery, but so quietly obsessed with Connie. I really enjoyed his growth through the book, it brought me to tears seeing his story wrap up.
I really liked Connie as a character, she was funny, confident, and admireable in the way she just went for what she wants. Her starlight status was a very interesting twist on the plot line, and herhidden insecurities were some so relateable that it was so easy to become a fan, cheering her on during her growth and success.
Thank you, Naomi Loud, for the opportunity for your ARC team, it's always such a pleasure to read any of your work.
July 2, 2025
You know what i absolutely love? Mess. I love when the relationship isn't easy and filled with other woman and man drama cause I'm a messy bitch who lives for drama and Naomi absolutely delivered. The play, small joke, did start to feel like it was about me at different points, but then I remembered this is a book and i ignored it and anything it could possibly be saying about me.
This was filled with family drama, resentment, love, and confusion and I loved every second. It felt real and raw and painful just like life does. Huxley, the mmc, and Connie, the fmc, are both flawed and had a lot of growing to do and understanding and talking and they both decided and different points to not and I 100% get it/got it.
There is no cheating, technically, but there are other partners and classic "making them jealous" parts and unfortunately I love to do that and stuff like that so I absolutely ate it up.
Much like when there is mess, the spice was great. I mean when youre supposed to hate them or not be with them doesn't it make it hotter? From being on the phone with the other man while your man who is mad at you does unquestionable things to you while saying, “Like he fucking hates you but can’t get enough of you?” 🥵 like excuse me for a second, i've gotta fan myself!
Thank you to naomi loud for having me on the team! This was amazing
This was filled with family drama, resentment, love, and confusion and I loved every second. It felt real and raw and painful just like life does. Huxley, the mmc, and Connie, the fmc, are both flawed and had a lot of growing to do and understanding and talking and they both decided and different points to not and I 100% get it/got it.
There is no cheating, technically, but there are other partners and classic "making them jealous" parts and unfortunately I love to do that and stuff like that so I absolutely ate it up.
Much like when there is mess, the spice was great. I mean when youre supposed to hate them or not be with them doesn't it make it hotter? From being on the phone with the other man while your man who is mad at you does unquestionable things to you while saying, “Like he fucking hates you but can’t get enough of you?” 🥵 like excuse me for a second, i've gotta fan myself!
Thank you to naomi loud for having me on the team! This was amazing
September 2, 2025
omg😭😭😭 First of ever since finishing On The Line ive been dying to see Ozzy and Huxley ment their relationship and if you know me you know a family (brother sisters anythin) relationship talk alays gets me in my feels and this book perfect for that. i almost cried for all of them and finally getting closer they deserve especially Huxley. my heart broke and breaks for him. they way he felt and how he thought of himself broke me into pieces just like it did for Connie. but connie healed a part of him. made him feel alive again. and connie while running finds her home in huxley. feels save and feels herself again with huxley this book and noami KNOWS how to truck my heart strings and this book did that constantly. 🥹 you never sit still there is always action and i loved thag so much. I love Hux and Connie and their family so so os much. i love their story. and i really hope this wasnt the last book ive read of this family
July 6, 2025
I really enjoyed Huxley and Connie’s story! Their banter and tension were everything, and the miscommunication—or really, the lack of communication—trope was strong in this one. It made for some frustrating moments, but also a really satisfying emotional payoff.
Huxley’s growth was one of my favorite parts of the book. Seeing him slowly build his sense of self-worth after everything he’s been through, from his upbringing, trauma, and time in prison, was so moving. Connie was the perfect balance for him, and their dynamic felt so real.
I love the found family aspect of this series, and love the McKenna siblings. I really hope we get Sophia’s story next, she seems like such a complex character with a lot to tell.
Overall, I’m loving this series and can’t wait for what’s next. Huge thanks to Naomi for the ARC!
Huxley’s growth was one of my favorite parts of the book. Seeing him slowly build his sense of self-worth after everything he’s been through, from his upbringing, trauma, and time in prison, was so moving. Connie was the perfect balance for him, and their dynamic felt so real.
I love the found family aspect of this series, and love the McKenna siblings. I really hope we get Sophia’s story next, she seems like such a complex character with a lot to tell.
Overall, I’m loving this series and can’t wait for what’s next. Huge thanks to Naomi for the ARC!
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