What do you think?
Rate this book
Sultry Southern Nights #2
Playing For Keeps
As an accomplished architect, single dad of teenage twin girls, and co-owner of The Playground, Raleigh's hottest jazz and blues club, it's an understatement to say Malcolm Cobb has his hands full. Add to that an ex-wife who knows how to bring the drama, it's no surprise he has little time or inclination for a personal life. But when he spots stunning, voluptuous Cilla Jameson, he's suddenly considering rearranging his schedule and setting aside his concerns. . .
Independent and successful, Cilla would love to be in love. But when it comes to men, she has a lengthy list of requirements. And "no children" is at the top. Yet she can't help being intrigued by Malcolm. He's handsome, fascinating, respectful--and up for a challenge. But is Cilla? After all, the man has baggage--and it is fully packed. Can she handle the ex who's determined to keep him single? Or the twins who are not quite the angels Malcolm thinks? She'll have to decide, if she wants to play for keeps. . .
Independent and successful, Cilla would love to be in love. But when it comes to men, she has a lengthy list of requirements. And "no children" is at the top. Yet she can't help being intrigued by Malcolm. He's handsome, fascinating, respectful--and up for a challenge. But is Cilla? After all, the man has baggage--and it is fully packed. Can she handle the ex who's determined to keep him single? Or the twins who are not quite the angels Malcolm thinks? She'll have to decide, if she wants to play for keeps. . .
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2015
18 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Fletcher Mello
129 books202 followersFor Deborah Fletcher Mello, writing is as necessary as breathing and she firmly believes that if she could not write she would cease to exist. Her first novel, TAKE ME TO HEART, earned her a 2004 Romance Slam Jam nomination for Best New Author. In 2005 she received Book of the Year and Favorite Heroine nominations for her novel THE RIGHT SIDE OF LOVE. In 2008, Deborah won the Romantic Times Reviewers Choice award for Best Series Romance for her ninth novel, TAME A WILD STALLION.
A true renaissance woman, Deborah's many career paths have included working as a retail buyer and size model for a national women's clothing chain, a finance manager for a well-known beverage organization, a sales manager for an infamous candy company, a telecommunications administrator and corporate trainer for a hotel-owning company, an art gallery director for a world-renowned artist, and an administrative consultant for multiple organizations throughout the United States. Deborah is also a licensed real estate broker and general building contractor.
Born and raised in Connecticut, Deborah maintains base camp in North Carolina but considers home to be wherever the moment moves her.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 28, 2015
Playing For Keeps by Deborah Fletcher Mello is the second book in the Sultry Southern Nights Series. We return to Raleigh's hottest jazz and blues club to hear about Malcolm Cobb and Cilla Jameson.
What I really loved about this book is that it is not your average contemporary romance book. This book gives you REAL LIFE situations and how everything isn't always "fantastic" in the Hero and Heroine's life. I loved the story line and how Mrs. Mello put everything together. There were times when I wanted to get a belt and whoop one of those twins myself and there were times I wanted to reach through the book and hug them. The situations that happen in this book are things that could happen and are happening right now in the world. Some of the issues may be sensitive to some but in the end there is always a H.E.V.
I highly recommend this book to all my fellow avid readers. A five-star read!
Reviewed by Shemah of Cilla's Book Maniacs
What I really loved about this book is that it is not your average contemporary romance book. This book gives you REAL LIFE situations and how everything isn't always "fantastic" in the Hero and Heroine's life. I loved the story line and how Mrs. Mello put everything together. There were times when I wanted to get a belt and whoop one of those twins myself and there were times I wanted to reach through the book and hug them. The situations that happen in this book are things that could happen and are happening right now in the world. Some of the issues may be sensitive to some but in the end there is always a H.E.V.
I highly recommend this book to all my fellow avid readers. A five-star read!
Reviewed by Shemah of Cilla's Book Maniacs
October 27, 2015
This second book in the series delves into some very needed but often kept quiet difficulties! The way the Author handled the journey between Malcolm and Cilla was both poignant and direct! Thank you for showing us that even in the midst of personal mess - love can triumph!
August 29, 2015
Playing For Keeps by Deborah Fletcher Mello is romance, life and love at its finest. The second book in the Sultry Southern Nights series tells another beautiful story of the folks at the Playground Jazz and Blues Club.
Malcolm Cobb and Cilia Jameson, two people with a lot of baggage, paint a picture of what love can become if you are willing to give complete honesty and trust with healthy doses of continued self-reflection.
Malcolm a recovering alcoholic single parent is ready for something new. A woman that gave him his greatest gift but was unable to love him taints his history with relationships. Cillia filled with second guesses and self-doubt refuses to play the game, let alone play for keeps. However, the way in which they exchanged cell phone numbers in the beginning gives the reader a clue that they both are Playing for Keeps.
At times Playing for Keeps takes the reader to dark reflections of painful places Malcom and Cillia would rather not revisit. Moreover, their journey to love may take the reader to their own dark places. Nevertheless, as with all of Ms. Mello’s journeys to love, Playing for Keeps shines through as a true picture of life and love.
The cast of characters at the Playground provide an intricate picture of how love and family support can shine beautiful light into those dark places.
This book, although sometimes difficult to read due to the strong emotions it invokes was impossible to put down. This by far was Deborah Fletcher Mello’s most poignant and loving work. ENCORE!!!!!!
For more love journeys by Deborah Fletcher Mellow check out deborahmello.blogspot.com
Malcolm Cobb and Cilia Jameson, two people with a lot of baggage, paint a picture of what love can become if you are willing to give complete honesty and trust with healthy doses of continued self-reflection.
Malcolm a recovering alcoholic single parent is ready for something new. A woman that gave him his greatest gift but was unable to love him taints his history with relationships. Cillia filled with second guesses and self-doubt refuses to play the game, let alone play for keeps. However, the way in which they exchanged cell phone numbers in the beginning gives the reader a clue that they both are Playing for Keeps.
At times Playing for Keeps takes the reader to dark reflections of painful places Malcom and Cillia would rather not revisit. Moreover, their journey to love may take the reader to their own dark places. Nevertheless, as with all of Ms. Mello’s journeys to love, Playing for Keeps shines through as a true picture of life and love.
The cast of characters at the Playground provide an intricate picture of how love and family support can shine beautiful light into those dark places.
This book, although sometimes difficult to read due to the strong emotions it invokes was impossible to put down. This by far was Deborah Fletcher Mello’s most poignant and loving work. ENCORE!!!!!!
For more love journeys by Deborah Fletcher Mellow check out deborahmello.blogspot.com
August 5, 2015
Nice story line but under developed. Malcolm and Cilla relationship was okay. The story about Malcom’s daughter Cleo going out with her mother’s boyfriend that night, that part was acceptable and believable. But the author went from a drug addict mother who would do anything to get a hit, to the child being part of a sex crime site, really??. But if Miss Millo wants to incorporate that as part of her story line, it needs to be more developed.
As I was reading the book, the Shanell’s story was too sporadic because she keeps popping in and out of the story. I got that she is on drugs but Ms Millo her story line also needs to be more developed. Nice touch with the relationship that Cilla and Miss Cobb (Malcom mother) had. Also at the end with Shanell speaking to Cilla.
I would not recommend this book.
Lisa Rampersad
AAMBC Reviewer
As I was reading the book, the Shanell’s story was too sporadic because she keeps popping in and out of the story. I got that she is on drugs but Ms Millo her story line also needs to be more developed. Nice touch with the relationship that Cilla and Miss Cobb (Malcom mother) had. Also at the end with Shanell speaking to Cilla.
I would not recommend this book.
Lisa Rampersad
AAMBC Reviewer
September 3, 2015
Playing For Keeps the second book in the Sultry Southern Nights series by Deborah Fletcher Mello is call a Contemporary Romance, I beg to differ this is real life romance. Once burned with trust issues Malcolm Cobb has his hands full running two business in different state and raising his twin girls as a single parent. He has no time for romance or foolishness. Sassy in charge Cilla Jameson wants to be in love but it has to be the man who meets her list of standards. When these two opposites meet something happens and they become a force of their own. A well written story that invokes emotions that touch the heart as they deal with an ex-wife,ex-boyfriend and unsavory characters. Playing For Keeps has you asking the question "what if"? Malcolm ans Cilla learned to do the most important things in a relationship listen, communicate, and forgive. I loved the story hour and mama Claudette.
January 23, 2016
It Was All Worth It!
Priscilla ‘Cilla’ Jameson walks into her local Starbucks to purchase her morning Java to jump start her day and Malcolm Cobb spots her as he's having his coffee after a morning run and he knows he has to meet her. What will become of these two? Cilla is not fond of ready-made families and Malcolm wonders if he should play or stay away?
I so enjoyed “Playing for Keeps.” There was so much drama. From the beginning, the twists and turns held my attention. I had to keep reading to see how it all turned out. I loved the way Deborah Fletcher Mello dealt with the subjects of child exploitation and addictions to drugs and alcohol.
I highly recommend “Playing for Keeps” as well as the previous novel, “Playing with Fire,” Taryn and Romeo's story.
Reviewed by: Lisa M.
4.5 Stars
Author Spotlight with Deborah: http://oosaonlinebookclub.blogspot.co...
Priscilla ‘Cilla’ Jameson walks into her local Starbucks to purchase her morning Java to jump start her day and Malcolm Cobb spots her as he's having his coffee after a morning run and he knows he has to meet her. What will become of these two? Cilla is not fond of ready-made families and Malcolm wonders if he should play or stay away?
I so enjoyed “Playing for Keeps.” There was so much drama. From the beginning, the twists and turns held my attention. I had to keep reading to see how it all turned out. I loved the way Deborah Fletcher Mello dealt with the subjects of child exploitation and addictions to drugs and alcohol.
I highly recommend “Playing for Keeps” as well as the previous novel, “Playing with Fire,” Taryn and Romeo's story.
Reviewed by: Lisa M.
4.5 Stars
Author Spotlight with Deborah: http://oosaonlinebookclub.blogspot.co...
November 3, 2015
I won both books in this series in a Book Bash, I was very happy to received a book that has not been released yet. Playing for keeps by Deborah Fletcher Mello is the first book I have read by this author, I have heard nothing but great things about her books. I started reading this book and could not put it down it kept me up several nights. Malcolm Cobb a single father of two, successful businessman meets an independent and successful Cilla falls head over heels, and they are an instant family, his girls and his mother loves her, but the ex wife keeps bringing turmoil to their family. This was a great love story I Really enjoyed it and recommend it.
September 18, 2016
This was a great story until it wasn't. This story was moving right along: love, family ties, misplaced trust, betrayal and lots of surprises. Malcolm meets Cilla, a sweet woman, who seems like his perfect match. Then they discover Malcolm's crackhead ex-wife has put one of his daughters in grave danger. Then 3/4 into the book, 10 pages of repetitious sex scenes and tedious details that TELL the action instead of SHOWING the action, slows the story way down! But then, thankfully, the story speeds back up and the great plot continues. So 3 stars become 4 stars again!
January 9, 2016
Sweet, but boring.
April 4, 2016
Grown folks lovin'
March 1, 2018
This was not your typical romance, with the build up of lust, ending with happily ever after. It has it happy ending but you don’t get there with the conflict free fun we’re used to.
This is more about grown up love rooted in today’s world. The blending of families past and present and all that that entails is what this story about.
If you go into with that in mind you’ll enjoy it more. It has all the stress and strife that happens in the real world. It strips off the rose colored glasses that romance paints with and gets down to peaking behind the curtain.
I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect of it.
This is more about grown up love rooted in today’s world. The blending of families past and present and all that that entails is what this story about.
If you go into with that in mind you’ll enjoy it more. It has all the stress and strife that happens in the real world. It strips off the rose colored glasses that romance paints with and gets down to peaking behind the curtain.
I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect of it.
October 3, 2018
At first I was thinking typical cliche book but it had a twist in the story. Made me want a guy like Malcolm but raises your eyebrow whether a woman would look pass his past and current woes with ex wife and 2 twin daughters when she didnt have kids of her own, and Malcolm was a mommas boy with southern charm a true gentleman.
October 9, 2021
A Father’s Love
Malcolm and Cilla’s story was really good and heartfelt. Their chemistry and attraction to one another was instant. They worked through issues affecting Malcolm’s daughters and had such wonderful family and friends in their corner to help them became one big happy family. Great story.
Malcolm and Cilla’s story was really good and heartfelt. Their chemistry and attraction to one another was instant. They worked through issues affecting Malcolm’s daughters and had such wonderful family and friends in their corner to help them became one big happy family. Great story.
January 2, 2018
its was a good book to read and i enjoyed reading
September 27, 2015
Malcolm Cobb is a single father raising twin teenaged girls. Thank God he has Mamma Claudette to help him out because these little girls are a handful. He is also a workaholic, owning not one but two thriving businesses. After a bad marriage Malcolm has sworn off the committed relationship thingy, that is until the beautiful, voluptuous Cilla Jameson walks into his favorite coffee shop. It is just something about her that captures his attention leaving him searching her out for more.
Cilla has had her share of dead end relationships and is unsure if she should even give Malcolm the time of day. Since Cilla’s track record has proven to be full of bad second guesses she figures why not have a little fun and soon finds herself at the hottest Jazz and Blues Club in Raleigh.
On their first date Malcolm proves to be everything that Cilla does not want in a man, especially the part about him being a single parent of two precocious daughters. Unable to help herself, though, she is mesmerized by this sexy man with many hidden talents.
I love how Malcolm didn’t waste any time in going after what he wanted. Deep down he knew that Cilla was just the type of woman for him, although he was a little apprehensive initially. He soon learned just how valuable Cilla was to him and his daughters. I also love how the author addressed the issue of blended families and how it can be difficult to join a ready-made family, but it can be done successfully. My most favorite part was watching Cilla trying to find a balance between keeping the girls’ devastating secret and being true to the man she had fallen in love with.
An excellent read!
-Reviewed by Cassandra Durham
Cilla has had her share of dead end relationships and is unsure if she should even give Malcolm the time of day. Since Cilla’s track record has proven to be full of bad second guesses she figures why not have a little fun and soon finds herself at the hottest Jazz and Blues Club in Raleigh.
On their first date Malcolm proves to be everything that Cilla does not want in a man, especially the part about him being a single parent of two precocious daughters. Unable to help herself, though, she is mesmerized by this sexy man with many hidden talents.
I love how Malcolm didn’t waste any time in going after what he wanted. Deep down he knew that Cilla was just the type of woman for him, although he was a little apprehensive initially. He soon learned just how valuable Cilla was to him and his daughters. I also love how the author addressed the issue of blended families and how it can be difficult to join a ready-made family, but it can be done successfully. My most favorite part was watching Cilla trying to find a balance between keeping the girls’ devastating secret and being true to the man she had fallen in love with.
An excellent read!
-Reviewed by Cassandra Durham
April 1, 2016
Another Homerun
What a great story!!! I actually read this book first, which is actually the second book in the Sultry Night series, but the story is so good I am going to buy the first book as soon as I finish writing this review.
This story focuses on Malcolm, partner of Romeo in a club called the Playground (very creative name) and Priscilla, "Cilla". They meet at a Starbucks and have an instant attraction to one another. Malcolm comes with some baggage bc his ex wife has a drug problem. He also has two teenage daughters who are twins. The book very realistically chronicles the challenges inherent in trying to date when one person has children.
What can I say, I think this author writes some of the best love scenes in the romance genre bc she really gets that a lot of sex and no romance gets boring after awhile. While the making love scenes are juicy (so nice to read a book where people make love instead of page after page of f****), what really sets this book apart from others in the genre is the wonderful dance of romance that this wonderful couple engages in. The author gives you realistic and detailed plots, not page after page of wham, bam, thank you mam!
Ms. Mello, Thank you for such a wonderful reading experience!
What a great story!!! I actually read this book first, which is actually the second book in the Sultry Night series, but the story is so good I am going to buy the first book as soon as I finish writing this review.
This story focuses on Malcolm, partner of Romeo in a club called the Playground (very creative name) and Priscilla, "Cilla". They meet at a Starbucks and have an instant attraction to one another. Malcolm comes with some baggage bc his ex wife has a drug problem. He also has two teenage daughters who are twins. The book very realistically chronicles the challenges inherent in trying to date when one person has children.
What can I say, I think this author writes some of the best love scenes in the romance genre bc she really gets that a lot of sex and no romance gets boring after awhile. While the making love scenes are juicy (so nice to read a book where people make love instead of page after page of f****), what really sets this book apart from others in the genre is the wonderful dance of romance that this wonderful couple engages in. The author gives you realistic and detailed plots, not page after page of wham, bam, thank you mam!
Ms. Mello, Thank you for such a wonderful reading experience!
September 28, 2015
Playing For Keeps by Deborah Mello is a page-turner. The author had my emotions going all sorts of ways as she dealt with some serious issues. I felt as if I had a front row seat watching as each chapter unfolded. I found myself cheering for Malcolm and his girls and praying for their mother.
The chemistry between Malcolm and Cilla was hot. The interaction between Malcolm and his daughters was priceless. The book is well written and the storyline flowed perfectly. The page count is more than adequate for the price.
Playing For Keeps is part of the Sultry Southern Nights series but can be read as a standalone novel. I encourage you to read Book 1 in the series also because it’s just that good. Ms. Mello has put her all into this story and in my opinion, Playing For Keeps, is her best work thus far.
January 22, 2016
“Playing For Keeps” by Deborah Fletcher Mello is a skillfully written literary work complete with real life experiences and challenges. It is both compelling and relatable for the reader.
The Author does an excellent job of sharing the intricate details of the lives of Malcolm Cobb, a divorced father of 13-year-old twin girls, Night Club & Architectural Design Company Owner, and Priscilla Jameson, single Healthcare Administrator. The chance meeting of these two individuals carries them through daily challenges that shock and yet pulls them closer together.
Mello provides a story that confronts some of the horrors of society, such as child molestation; substance abuse and child sex exploitation. The story is interwoven with the power of familial love, romantic love, and friendships that stand the test of time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. (Jamesina)
The Author does an excellent job of sharing the intricate details of the lives of Malcolm Cobb, a divorced father of 13-year-old twin girls, Night Club & Architectural Design Company Owner, and Priscilla Jameson, single Healthcare Administrator. The chance meeting of these two individuals carries them through daily challenges that shock and yet pulls them closer together.
Mello provides a story that confronts some of the horrors of society, such as child molestation; substance abuse and child sex exploitation. The story is interwoven with the power of familial love, romantic love, and friendships that stand the test of time. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. (Jamesina)
April 2, 2016
copy provided by Netgalley
This is book 2 but can be read as a standalone. The romance was sweet and the characters likable. The story was believable. I like that the characters were good people. I love stories with single fathers. Malcolm is a divorced father of twin daughters. He was doing his best to raise his daughters properly. He was careful who he let into their lives. when he meet Cilla, he is instantly attracted. As they get to know one another, he realizes that she is special. The romance was a quick but sweet. There is a couple of dramatic scenarios but for the most part, this was an easy quick read.
This is book 2 but can be read as a standalone. The romance was sweet and the characters likable. The story was believable. I like that the characters were good people. I love stories with single fathers. Malcolm is a divorced father of twin daughters. He was doing his best to raise his daughters properly. He was careful who he let into their lives. when he meet Cilla, he is instantly attracted. As they get to know one another, he realizes that she is special. The romance was a quick but sweet. There is a couple of dramatic scenarios but for the most part, this was an easy quick read.
June 11, 2016
Malcom's story line with his two children was so awesome. I his mother as the head matriarch. I love the fact that he has a relationship with his mother in law that is trusting and loving. Shantel as a woman is addicted and is not the woman he fell in love with. To put your children at risk for a substance has to be out of her mind. To have trusting relationships with our parents is our main job so that even in trouble our children, grand-children, the villiage's children must feel free to come to a coach, pastor, family member about trouble especially sexual invasion. I loved this story line and can't wait to read more of Deborah Mello's work.
September 17, 2015
I am posting a review for Netgalley because i have recive ARC for an honest review
I had love how Malcolm and Cilla got together in this book and face difficulty from Malcolm dealing with his ex wife and they dealing with his twins. There is a part in this book that touch me deep and i am happy the author touch on that subject because it happens everyday without people knowing it. I can't wait to read another book by Ms. Mello because this book keep me interested from beginning to the end.
I had love how Malcolm and Cilla got together in this book and face difficulty from Malcolm dealing with his ex wife and they dealing with his twins. There is a part in this book that touch me deep and i am happy the author touch on that subject because it happens everyday without people knowing it. I can't wait to read another book by Ms. Mello because this book keep me interested from beginning to the end.
November 3, 2015
I received an ARC version from Netgalley for an honest review and I can definitely say this book really is a five star read. This story contained real life issues that makes readers feel,like they can actually relate to the characters. The fact they love helped Malcolm and Cilla conquers those hurdles made their love story 1000 times better. Ms. Fletcher-Mello held me captivated from the first page to the last. I definitely recommend this book!
November 29, 2015
Love the Second Time Around
I totally enjoyed Malcolm and Cillia. She became a great source of strength for the girls. I did want to yell at Malcolm when he got upset with her, but I understood his concerns. I hope there are more books in this series so we can keep up with the characters.
I totally enjoyed Malcolm and Cillia. She became a great source of strength for the girls. I did want to yell at Malcolm when he got upset with her, but I understood his concerns. I hope there are more books in this series so we can keep up with the characters.
December 19, 2015
Malcolm Cobb has gone through a lot, and now the single Dad of twin girls. He meets Cilla Jameson, who thought she would never date a man with children. They become friends who are intrigued with each other. Despite the drama from outside sources, they find themselves falling in love.
A great follow-up to the Sultry Southern Nights series, love it!
A great follow-up to the Sultry Southern Nights series, love it!
October 12, 2015
"A woman needs to know that even when times are hard and things get rough she's still a priority in your life. If she trusts you then she will always have your back."
Playing For Keeps is a romance novel that unexpectedly hits on some pretty major issues. It has a realistic storyline with realistic reactions from the characters. A full review will be posted closer to the publication date.
Playing For Keeps is a romance novel that unexpectedly hits on some pretty major issues. It has a realistic storyline with realistic reactions from the characters. A full review will be posted closer to the publication date.
Read
November 12, 2015Playing For Keeps Indeed
Malcolm and Cilla had to go through many obstacles to stay together. Those obstacles keep your attention throughout this book. I loved so many things about this book, especially bed story time! Get this book & get caught up with all the crew from The Playground!
Malcolm and Cilla had to go through many obstacles to stay together. Those obstacles keep your attention throughout this book. I loved so many things about this book, especially bed story time! Get this book & get caught up with all the crew from The Playground!
November 9, 2015
Playing For Keeps
This was a truly amazing book about two people who meet in a public place and get to know each other! Finding Love, romance, joy, and passion to your life when you least expect it! I would definitely recommend this book to read!
This was a truly amazing book about two people who meet in a public place and get to know each other! Finding Love, romance, joy, and passion to your life when you least expect it! I would definitely recommend this book to read!
November 13, 2015
A Must Read
This story is soooo good. Definitely one of those must reads. Joy, heartbreak, drama, joy again all rolled into one great story . Great cast of characters, every single one of them necessary to make the story what it is . Good job Miss Deborah Fletcher-Mello
This story is soooo good. Definitely one of those must reads. Joy, heartbreak, drama, joy again all rolled into one great story . Great cast of characters, every single one of them necessary to make the story what it is . Good job Miss Deborah Fletcher-Mello
February 2, 2017
Playing for Keeps is an awesome read!! I so enjoyed the storyline. It had me experiencing every emotion. When I finished the book I cried because it was so emotional! By far the best book I've read!
December 11, 2016
Loved it!
A must read! From start to finish this book had it going on. Malcolm and Cilla need to have a part 2. I can't wait for the next story.
A must read! From start to finish this book had it going on. Malcolm and Cilla need to have a part 2. I can't wait for the next story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews