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Elite PR #2
Played
A sexy category romance from Entangled's Brazen imprint...
Play. Or be played.
The music should be enough. End of story. But Aaron Major is finding out it's not, and now his agent has hired a firm of suits to help launch his debut album, turning his life into a goddamn circus. Smile here. Play there. Be nice. Well, screw that. If Aaron wanted to spend his time shaking hands and kissing babies, he would've gone into politics.
Helping launch the career of country singer Aaron Major should be a cakewalk for PR pro Melody Sharp. Aaron is charming, sexy, and oh-so-appealing when he's on stage. Off stage, though, he's her worst nightmare. A stubborn, ornery, reclusive nightmare without a lick of business-or fashion-sense. The only way he's going to make it in music is with a serious makeover-and quite possibly a personality transplant.
Soon, they're engaged in a game of give and take, and though it's Melody calling the shots, it's Aaron who holds all control...
191 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2015
6 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Clare James
34 books633 followersClare James is the author of steamy contemporary romance and new adult novels: BEFORE YOU GO,MORE, DIRTY LITTLE LIES, TALK TO ME, and JUST LISTEN. A former dancer, Clare still loves to get her groove on—mostly to work off her beloved cupcakes and red wine.
A fan of spunky women, gorgeous guys, and super-hot romance, Clare spends most of her time lost in books. She lives in Minneapolis with her two leading men—her husband and young son—and loves to hear from her fans.
Find her at:
www.clarejamesbooks.com
@clarejamesbooks
http://www.facebook.com/clarejamesauthor
A fan of spunky women, gorgeous guys, and super-hot romance, Clare spends most of her time lost in books. She lives in Minneapolis with her two leading men—her husband and young son—and loves to hear from her fans.
Find her at:
www.clarejamesbooks.com
@clarejamesbooks
http://www.facebook.com/clarejamesauthor
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October 17, 2015Sadly, this is a case of it's not you, its me.
I was reminded at just 15% why the previous story in this series didn't work with me.
Some you win, some you lose...CTRL/ALT DELETE..
ARC gratefully received from Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review
I was reminded at just 15% why the previous story in this series didn't work with me.
Some you win, some you lose...CTRL/ALT DELETE..
ARC gratefully received from Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review
October 16, 2015
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Played by Clare James
Book Two of the Elite PR series
Publisher: Brazen
Publication Date: October 19, 2015
Rating: 3 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Play. Or be played.
The music should be enough. End of story. But Aaron Major is finding out it's not, and now his agent has hired a firm of suits to help launch his debut album, turning his life into a goddamn circus. Smile here. Play there. Be nice. Well, screw that. If Aaron wanted to spend his time shaking hands and kissing babies, he would've gone into politics.
Helping launch the career of country singer Aaron Major should be a cakewalk for PR pro Melody Sharp. Aaron is charming, sexy, and oh-so-appealing when he's on stage. Off stage, though, he's her worst nightmare. A stubborn, ornery, reclusive nightmare without a lick of business-or fashion-sense. The only way he's going to make it in music is with a serious makeover-and quite possibly a personality transplant.
Soon, they're engaged in a game of give and take, and though it's Melody calling the shots, it's Aaron who holds all control...
What I Liked:
I absolutely LOVED Caught by Clare James (book one of this series), and at the time, I thought it was a standalone. So I was thrilled to see that there would be another book! The final scene of Caught was a giant hint at another book! Mel and her sexy cowboy get their own book. Win! While I didn't love this book nearly as much as I enjoyed Caught, I thought this one was pretty good!
Melody Sharp needs to do something with her career. Her boss, Miranda, has demoted her from her position as a PR manager, lumping her in with the interns. When a new guy moves into the apartment across from Mel's, she discovers that he's super hot... and a country singer. He's about to launch a new song, and Mel is going give him a makeover. She'll help him launch his new label, but he'll have to keep his hands off of her...
Melody is so different from the female protagonist of Caught, Vivian. Vivian is so ambitious and driven, whereas Melody is a bit... stuck. When she gets kicked out of her apartment, her new neighbor, Aaron Major, offers to let her stay in his extra room. Turns out, he's a country singer who used to be popular, and is now coming back from a dry spell. It's a perfect opportunity for Melody to clean up her act, and for Aaron's launch to go big.
So Mel lets this new project fill her, and she really gets back into her PR groove. I like Mel - she has a knack for publicity and promotion, and she's really good at what she does. She's also kind and tough, and doesn't let Aaron's agent (assistant? agent? Rita, that lady) push her around.
Aaron is a different male protagonist than I was expecting. He's almost reluctant to launch his new label, image, country singer self. His first start into the country music world did not end well, and he disappeared for years. Now solo, he's hoping to have a successful and positive impact. He doesn't want to hire Mel at first, but he sees the logic and benefit in doing so quickly.
Especially when things heat up in the little apartment. At first, I wasn't a fan of Mel living in his apartment, just because that plot twist seemed too convenient, and also very similar to the events in Caught. But it lead to some steamy scenes for sure. While I didn't find this book quite as hot as Caught, it's clear that Clare James knows how to write sexy and non-repetitive scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The big finale wasn't that great for me, and I mentioned a few things that I'll discuss below, but I did like this book. I'll definitely be looking out for more Brazen books by Clare James!
What I Did Not Like:
To be honest, I wasn't feeling the climax and ending of this book. It centers around Aaron's launch party, and there's so much drama and angst going on. I get it, famous people are always going to be surrounded by drama. Aaron himself is so chill and low-key. But his agent (assistant, whoever), his "damaged" past, his former bandmate... I won't go into the specifics, but these things didn't really do much for me. I especially didn't like the ex-bandmate. I did like Aaron's brother though, he was a nice surprise (I hope the next book - there MUST be another - will be about him!). And ugh, Rita. What a pain in the neck.
I actually wasn't feeling the fact that Melody and Aaron began living together. It felt convenient, way too easy. This definitely works in some books, but in this one, I didn't like that I expected it (like, obviously she's going to be behind on her rent, and the neighbor she literally JUST met is going to offer to let her stay with him, and OF COURSE he turns out to be a country star who probably needs a PR agent). There must be another way for these two to get close!
This book wasn't quite as hot as I'd hoped, but of course, Caught set my expectations very high, for this author. So this isn't necessarily a complaint, but more of an Alyssa request. Ish.
Would I Recommend It:
Despite the three-star-rating, I would recommend this one. When I finished, I wasn't entirely impressed, and I knew I didn't love it. I vacillated between three and four stars, but settled on three because this isn't a particularly memorable Brazen, and I didn't love it. Still, it was decent!
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded down to 3 stars. This was definitely on the positive side of 3 stars, and not the negative side. If anything, try Caught by this author - it was amazing!
Played by Clare James
Book Two of the Elite PR series
Publisher: Brazen
Publication Date: October 19, 2015
Rating: 3 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
Play. Or be played.
The music should be enough. End of story. But Aaron Major is finding out it's not, and now his agent has hired a firm of suits to help launch his debut album, turning his life into a goddamn circus. Smile here. Play there. Be nice. Well, screw that. If Aaron wanted to spend his time shaking hands and kissing babies, he would've gone into politics.
Helping launch the career of country singer Aaron Major should be a cakewalk for PR pro Melody Sharp. Aaron is charming, sexy, and oh-so-appealing when he's on stage. Off stage, though, he's her worst nightmare. A stubborn, ornery, reclusive nightmare without a lick of business-or fashion-sense. The only way he's going to make it in music is with a serious makeover-and quite possibly a personality transplant.
Soon, they're engaged in a game of give and take, and though it's Melody calling the shots, it's Aaron who holds all control...
What I Liked:
I absolutely LOVED Caught by Clare James (book one of this series), and at the time, I thought it was a standalone. So I was thrilled to see that there would be another book! The final scene of Caught was a giant hint at another book! Mel and her sexy cowboy get their own book. Win! While I didn't love this book nearly as much as I enjoyed Caught, I thought this one was pretty good!
Melody Sharp needs to do something with her career. Her boss, Miranda, has demoted her from her position as a PR manager, lumping her in with the interns. When a new guy moves into the apartment across from Mel's, she discovers that he's super hot... and a country singer. He's about to launch a new song, and Mel is going give him a makeover. She'll help him launch his new label, but he'll have to keep his hands off of her...
Melody is so different from the female protagonist of Caught, Vivian. Vivian is so ambitious and driven, whereas Melody is a bit... stuck. When she gets kicked out of her apartment, her new neighbor, Aaron Major, offers to let her stay in his extra room. Turns out, he's a country singer who used to be popular, and is now coming back from a dry spell. It's a perfect opportunity for Melody to clean up her act, and for Aaron's launch to go big.
So Mel lets this new project fill her, and she really gets back into her PR groove. I like Mel - she has a knack for publicity and promotion, and she's really good at what she does. She's also kind and tough, and doesn't let Aaron's agent (assistant? agent? Rita, that lady) push her around.
Aaron is a different male protagonist than I was expecting. He's almost reluctant to launch his new label, image, country singer self. His first start into the country music world did not end well, and he disappeared for years. Now solo, he's hoping to have a successful and positive impact. He doesn't want to hire Mel at first, but he sees the logic and benefit in doing so quickly.
Especially when things heat up in the little apartment. At first, I wasn't a fan of Mel living in his apartment, just because that plot twist seemed too convenient, and also very similar to the events in Caught. But it lead to some steamy scenes for sure. While I didn't find this book quite as hot as Caught, it's clear that Clare James knows how to write sexy and non-repetitive scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The big finale wasn't that great for me, and I mentioned a few things that I'll discuss below, but I did like this book. I'll definitely be looking out for more Brazen books by Clare James!
What I Did Not Like:
To be honest, I wasn't feeling the climax and ending of this book. It centers around Aaron's launch party, and there's so much drama and angst going on. I get it, famous people are always going to be surrounded by drama. Aaron himself is so chill and low-key. But his agent (assistant, whoever), his "damaged" past, his former bandmate... I won't go into the specifics, but these things didn't really do much for me. I especially didn't like the ex-bandmate. I did like Aaron's brother though, he was a nice surprise (I hope the next book - there MUST be another - will be about him!). And ugh, Rita. What a pain in the neck.
I actually wasn't feeling the fact that Melody and Aaron began living together. It felt convenient, way too easy. This definitely works in some books, but in this one, I didn't like that I expected it (like, obviously she's going to be behind on her rent, and the neighbor she literally JUST met is going to offer to let her stay with him, and OF COURSE he turns out to be a country star who probably needs a PR agent). There must be another way for these two to get close!
This book wasn't quite as hot as I'd hoped, but of course, Caught set my expectations very high, for this author. So this isn't necessarily a complaint, but more of an Alyssa request. Ish.
Would I Recommend It:
Despite the three-star-rating, I would recommend this one. When I finished, I wasn't entirely impressed, and I knew I didn't love it. I vacillated between three and four stars, but settled on three because this isn't a particularly memorable Brazen, and I didn't love it. Still, it was decent!
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded down to 3 stars. This was definitely on the positive side of 3 stars, and not the negative side. If anything, try Caught by this author - it was amazing!
March 14, 2016
3.5 Stars...A struggling ex-country music star and a demoted PR girl - a match made in heaven, right? Since we all know things are seldom that simple, read on! Aaron Major had a career most only dream of, but too many all-nighters - booze, parties, easy women - took its toil on both his body and his career. After crashing and burning, he decided to step away from the limelight and take time to find himself and his music again - find out what's real and what's not. Aaron moves in across the hall and first meets his sexy neighbor as she tries to find her keys after an all-nighter of her own - and drops her lacy panties out of her purse. Well, isn't that intriguing? Believing that this was the kind of woman that was part of the life he had left behind, Aaron steers clear of the temptation of Melody Sharp . . . until she finds herself locked out of her apartment for non-payment of the rent. Aaron has no choice but to invite her into his apartment and allow her to stay a couple of nights - that turns into a few weeks. And so, these two damaged people begin an erotic dance - swaying back and forth between physical desire and their need for something more . . . something real, something that lasts. He helps her by giving her a place to live, and she repays him by convincing the Elite PR firm where she works to take him on as a client - with her managing his PR. And so the fun, hot sex, and array of misunderstandings begins.
Played is a hot, sexy read that also tugs on the heart strings. I really liked Aaron as he worked to rebuild his career and came to realize that it's okay to lean on someone else, to need someone else. I came to like Melody once she grew a pair and took charge of her own career and life. As it turned out, these two make beautiful music together! Played is a good, sexy, and yes, even sweet romance. A Must Read!
Reviewed @ Cross My Heart Writings & Reviews
Played is a hot, sexy read that also tugs on the heart strings. I really liked Aaron as he worked to rebuild his career and came to realize that it's okay to lean on someone else, to need someone else. I came to like Melody once she grew a pair and took charge of her own career and life. As it turned out, these two make beautiful music together! Played is a good, sexy, and yes, even sweet romance. A Must Read!
Reviewed @ Cross My Heart Writings & Reviews
October 16, 2015
I received an ARC of this book from Barclay Publicity in exchange for an honest review and as part of the book's blog tour promotions.
Can anyone say hot? I read the first book in this series, and that was sexy and steamy in all the right places. This book wasn't any different. We now move on to Melody's story with a country singer for a hero in Aaron. I have to say that while this story was light and easy, it was also really sweet. The main characters were entertaining to read.
Of course, like any Brazen book, the steam factor was very hot, just the way I like them. I read this as fast as I could because once I started reading, I got hooked right away. I wanted to take the journey with the main characters and see them through their HEA. I can't say I've read many books from this author, but what I've read so far, I've always liked, so that makes me glad. These people at Elite PR are really getting all the luck, you know. Anyway, if there are more books in the series, I will definitely be watching out for them.
Can anyone say hot? I read the first book in this series, and that was sexy and steamy in all the right places. This book wasn't any different. We now move on to Melody's story with a country singer for a hero in Aaron. I have to say that while this story was light and easy, it was also really sweet. The main characters were entertaining to read.
Of course, like any Brazen book, the steam factor was very hot, just the way I like them. I read this as fast as I could because once I started reading, I got hooked right away. I wanted to take the journey with the main characters and see them through their HEA. I can't say I've read many books from this author, but what I've read so far, I've always liked, so that makes me glad. These people at Elite PR are really getting all the luck, you know. Anyway, if there are more books in the series, I will definitely be watching out for them.
October 1, 2015
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“She had always wanted to be Scarlett O’Hara, unconventional and brave, a woman who made her own rules. Unfortunately, she ended up coming off more like Celia Foote from The Help – a pretty, ditsy caricature of a woman who was about as smart as tree bark.”
My Review:
Clare James was a rather recent discovery for me and I am now a big fan and plan on working my way through her body of work. She has mad skills and her books generally contain all my favorite elements - romance, smart characters, clever dialog, witty banter, and deliciously steamy sensuality. Played is an entertaining story about a young woman who needed to find her footing, and she found it only after losing nearly everything else. Despite the heavy premise, the story was actually a light and quick read that was well written, entertaining, and enjoyable from beginning to end.
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“She had always wanted to be Scarlett O’Hara, unconventional and brave, a woman who made her own rules. Unfortunately, she ended up coming off more like Celia Foote from The Help – a pretty, ditsy caricature of a woman who was about as smart as tree bark.”
My Review:
Clare James was a rather recent discovery for me and I am now a big fan and plan on working my way through her body of work. She has mad skills and her books generally contain all my favorite elements - romance, smart characters, clever dialog, witty banter, and deliciously steamy sensuality. Played is an entertaining story about a young woman who needed to find her footing, and she found it only after losing nearly everything else. Despite the heavy premise, the story was actually a light and quick read that was well written, entertaining, and enjoyable from beginning to end.
October 10, 2015
I really enjoyed this book! Melody is in a rough place in her life -she's just been demoted at work and has no money to pay her rent. She's questioning if she should stay in the city or give up and move home. When she gets locked out of her apartment and has nowhere to go, her neighbor Aaron lets her in even though they didn't have the best first meeting. Aaron is a country music singer trying to get his career back on track after going wild. Melody is the perfect person to help rehab his image.
This was a really fun and light story. Aaron and Melody were great together. I really liked both of these characters! There were also some really good steamy scenes in this one. I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and sexy story.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
This was a really fun and light story. Aaron and Melody were great together. I really liked both of these characters! There were also some really good steamy scenes in this one. I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and sexy story.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
October 21, 2015
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
Played was a book that I enjoyed reading but I did not LOVE it. It was one of those sweet charming romantic reads but there was just something missing in the storyline for me to say WOW. I did feel there wasn't enough angst between the characters Aaron and Melody. Their relationship was a bit too convenient for my taste. But overall, the book is an easy fast paced romance for those who love their sweet HEA.
Played was a book that I enjoyed reading but I did not LOVE it. It was one of those sweet charming romantic reads but there was just something missing in the storyline for me to say WOW. I did feel there wasn't enough angst between the characters Aaron and Melody. Their relationship was a bit too convenient for my taste. But overall, the book is an easy fast paced romance for those who love their sweet HEA.
October 8, 2015
An excellent read! Melody Sharp is definitely having a rough time. She's taken a demotion at PR firm she works for which of course cut her salary and now she's been locked out of her apartment since she hasn't been able to pay her rent. Even though she and her very hot neighbor got off to a bad start, he's kind enough to offer her a place to stay temporarily. Aaron Major is a country singer who hit it big a bit too young and couldn't handle the spotlight. Now though, he's ready to make a comeback and who better to get his image out there than his unexpected roommate??
This was really a fun read! I am so glad to have discovered Clare James. I truly enjoy her writing style and will be going through her back list. I think everyone would enjoy this book and I definitely recommend it.
This was really a fun read! I am so glad to have discovered Clare James. I truly enjoy her writing style and will be going through her back list. I think everyone would enjoy this book and I definitely recommend it.
October 22, 2015
3.25 stars
Melody Sharp is not having the best time of her life. Recently demoted and facing eviction, she needs 'something' to start happening in her life before she's forced to return back home with her tail between her legs. Something she's not looking forward to doing. Add to that the fact that her new neighbor proves to be not only handsome as hell but a PITA as well. Little does she know how big a role Aaron is going to play in her life.
When it comes to being a celebrity in the music industry Aaron has been there, done that and has multiple emotional scars to prove it. He just wants to make music without all the hoopla, but his manager has other plans. Although reluctant to give in into his manager, he relents only to find out that the person hired to handle his PR is his gorgeous feisty neighbor. The very one that pushes his every button and inspires desires in him he has no intentions of exploring.
One of the things I enjoyed the most about this story was Aaron. *sigh* Aaron was a complex man with issues that were easily understood. He just wanted to make his own music and not be a pawn in the music world. After learning his past, it became easier to understand where he was coming from. I enjoyed watching him enjoying making music and coming to terms with what that entailed. Plus he was amazingly sweet and sexy--a great combination.
Melody, on the other hand, was a bit harder to connect to, at least for me. I felt for her situation at work and understood why she jumped at the chance to manage Aaron's PR. But although I understood to an extent where she was coming from in her personal life, I didn't see the importance of her ex's return and her reluctance to return to her home town. In truth, I thought she was making a big deal out of nothing. But maybe that was just me.
In any case, I enjoyed Aaron and Melody together. Initially, it was their bickering and flirty banter that I enjoyed, but as they started spending more time together, I got to see that they complemented each other well. They sometimes butted heads in regards to Aaron's career and his willingness to play his role in the industry, but their connection was always present and growing throughout. However, their relationship was too convenient for me to be fully sold on it. Sure, they shared a connection and great chemistry, but I thought that they came together too easily. Be it the fact that she moved in with him from the beginning or their emotions came out to play too soon--I don't know. All I know is that something was missing and it affected my overall enjoyment of the story.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
Melody Sharp is not having the best time of her life. Recently demoted and facing eviction, she needs 'something' to start happening in her life before she's forced to return back home with her tail between her legs. Something she's not looking forward to doing. Add to that the fact that her new neighbor proves to be not only handsome as hell but a PITA as well. Little does she know how big a role Aaron is going to play in her life.
When it comes to being a celebrity in the music industry Aaron has been there, done that and has multiple emotional scars to prove it. He just wants to make music without all the hoopla, but his manager has other plans. Although reluctant to give in into his manager, he relents only to find out that the person hired to handle his PR is his gorgeous feisty neighbor. The very one that pushes his every button and inspires desires in him he has no intentions of exploring.
One of the things I enjoyed the most about this story was Aaron. *sigh* Aaron was a complex man with issues that were easily understood. He just wanted to make his own music and not be a pawn in the music world. After learning his past, it became easier to understand where he was coming from. I enjoyed watching him enjoying making music and coming to terms with what that entailed. Plus he was amazingly sweet and sexy--a great combination.
Melody, on the other hand, was a bit harder to connect to, at least for me. I felt for her situation at work and understood why she jumped at the chance to manage Aaron's PR. But although I understood to an extent where she was coming from in her personal life, I didn't see the importance of her ex's return and her reluctance to return to her home town. In truth, I thought she was making a big deal out of nothing. But maybe that was just me.
In any case, I enjoyed Aaron and Melody together. Initially, it was their bickering and flirty banter that I enjoyed, but as they started spending more time together, I got to see that they complemented each other well. They sometimes butted heads in regards to Aaron's career and his willingness to play his role in the industry, but their connection was always present and growing throughout. However, their relationship was too convenient for me to be fully sold on it. Sure, they shared a connection and great chemistry, but I thought that they came together too easily. Be it the fact that she moved in with him from the beginning or their emotions came out to play too soon--I don't know. All I know is that something was missing and it affected my overall enjoyment of the story.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
October 28, 2015
DNF - 19%
ARC received from: Netgalley
Review: Given how little I enjoyed the first book in the series, I should have known better than to come back for more but I did and this time I just could not struggle onto the end for two reasons:
1. The reader gets introduced to two other guys before we actually meet the the guy the story is about.
First, Melody's ex-boyfriend emails and you can't help wondering if this is going to turn into a reconciliation romance, then Melody "sleeps" with a friend and finally she runs into Aaron during her walk of shame and he sees her underwear falling out of her purse. Classy.
Too many guys, too little time, my interest in Melody's lovelife was over before we even met Aaron.
2. Melody bemoans the fact that at the age of 25 she has lost her executive office and is kicked back down to the bullpen to be with the interns.
Let me tell you, a 25 year-old must have been extremely lucky to have ever even had an office and not been an intern. Bump her up a decade age-wise and then I might have some sympathy.
October 12, 2015
With a hint of naughtiness and a whole lotta sass, this scintillating romance is as swoon-worthy as it sounds. The backstory smoothly provides readers with enough information about the well-developed lovers without slowing the pace or losing focus of the current events. The hero and heroine have a deep physical attraction, and their emotional connection becomes just as strong over time. I was pleased with how they each were able to be a part of the relationship without losing focus on their individual dreams, all while showing mutual respect and making time for each other. The development is believable, and the story unfolded nicely.
The climax isn’t overly dramatic, and is right on target with the feel of the story. I was more than pleased with the dialogue, and the sex scenes have just enough heat to appeal to a variety of preferences. I can’t wait to read more from the author, and I especially want more from Melody and Aaron.
Kudos to James!
The climax isn’t overly dramatic, and is right on target with the feel of the story. I was more than pleased with the dialogue, and the sex scenes have just enough heat to appeal to a variety of preferences. I can’t wait to read more from the author, and I especially want more from Melody and Aaron.
Kudos to James!
October 19, 2015
ARC generously provided via Entangled, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review
November 8, 2015
I really liked this book.
March 12, 2023
Melody Sharp needs to win over her boss and a whole lot of luck if she's going to land a new client.
When fate closes one door, anther opens that will set her on the path to career heaven.
A musician down on his luck needs a makeover to resurrect his career and Melody is just the woman to do it.
With a little chemistry anything is possible in this contemporary romance that will take you from Atlanta to smalltown USA.
I receieved an advance reader copy for a fair and honest review
When fate closes one door, anther opens that will set her on the path to career heaven.
A musician down on his luck needs a makeover to resurrect his career and Melody is just the woman to do it.
With a little chemistry anything is possible in this contemporary romance that will take you from Atlanta to smalltown USA.
I receieved an advance reader copy for a fair and honest review
October 23, 2015
I have been anticipating Mel's story since I finished reading the first book in the series and I enjoyed it. It was light, entertaining and steamy. From the very first page, the heat between Mel and Aaron had me primed for fireworks between them. Why did I enjoy this so much? Because a successful comeback makes for such an appealing story.
Aaron Major has a well-earned reputation as country music's outlaw due to his wild lifestyle, a lifestyle that cost him everything. Seven years later, he's trying to stage a comeback and he's determined to avoid the things that cost him his career last time. But his one weakness is his inability to say no to any one in need, which leads to him offering his neighbor his spare bedroom for a couple of days when she finds herself unexpectedly evicted.
Melanie Sharp is a Southern belle through and through, modeled on Scarlett O'Hara but when her boyfriend dumped her and headed off to better things, she decided to head to the big city and achieve her own success. Lately, though, she hasn't been feeling upbeat about her job especially because of her demotion due to a few missteps which has affected everything. Being evicted is the final straw but her new neighbor is a godsend and in a fortuitous twist he is in need of a PR manager to help with his comeback and Mel is quick to scoop him up with the hope that she can revive her dying career.
Aaron is a whiz with his fingers in every way possible and between his songwriting and her PR campaign, they sure are making music of a different kind and as you would expect, their chemistry is crazy hot. What I enjoyed most about PLAYED apart from both Mel and Aaron's comeback stories, is the ease of their relationship. They respected each other's careers and never lost focus of their dreams. I also love how different this is from the first book. Mel is a mix of sweetness and fire but not overly ambitious and driven, maybe because of the low expectations from her family. Aaron is also laid-back and easygoing, which works for both of them. My only complaint is how abruptly the book ended and some unresolved pieces, especially about Aaron's manager.
PLAYED was a fun read overall and if you are looking to be entertained, PLAYED is definitely one way to do so.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Aaron Major has a well-earned reputation as country music's outlaw due to his wild lifestyle, a lifestyle that cost him everything. Seven years later, he's trying to stage a comeback and he's determined to avoid the things that cost him his career last time. But his one weakness is his inability to say no to any one in need, which leads to him offering his neighbor his spare bedroom for a couple of days when she finds herself unexpectedly evicted.
Melanie Sharp is a Southern belle through and through, modeled on Scarlett O'Hara but when her boyfriend dumped her and headed off to better things, she decided to head to the big city and achieve her own success. Lately, though, she hasn't been feeling upbeat about her job especially because of her demotion due to a few missteps which has affected everything. Being evicted is the final straw but her new neighbor is a godsend and in a fortuitous twist he is in need of a PR manager to help with his comeback and Mel is quick to scoop him up with the hope that she can revive her dying career.
Aaron is a whiz with his fingers in every way possible and between his songwriting and her PR campaign, they sure are making music of a different kind and as you would expect, their chemistry is crazy hot. What I enjoyed most about PLAYED apart from both Mel and Aaron's comeback stories, is the ease of their relationship. They respected each other's careers and never lost focus of their dreams. I also love how different this is from the first book. Mel is a mix of sweetness and fire but not overly ambitious and driven, maybe because of the low expectations from her family. Aaron is also laid-back and easygoing, which works for both of them. My only complaint is how abruptly the book ended and some unresolved pieces, especially about Aaron's manager.
PLAYED was a fun read overall and if you are looking to be entertained, PLAYED is definitely one way to do so.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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October 14, 2015
To read this review and others like it check out my site at www.homelovebooks.com
I love book where people are starting over, or trying again, I think it's something that we can all relate to. I also like books about musicians, so when I realized this book was about a guy trying to get a second chance in the music business, I was kinda sold on it. Also think what really worked about this book is that both Melody and Aaron are getting there lives together and they are doing it in kind of a symbiotic way, so their journeys kind of run parallel, which actually makes it really enjoyable.
So the book kind of starts with Melody, she's basically kind of down on her luck. She's recently been demoted at work, went from having an office with a view to being in the cubicles with the interns, and with a serious cashflow problem, rent and other things are seriously becoming an issue for her. Melody was interesting for me because she has this kind of attitude about her (like not in a bad way) but the reality is she's a small town girl, and she's never really colored outside the lines. Sure, she's tried to go out and paint the town red, but it never really seems to work out that way. I think she has the idea of what she is suppose to be, but isn't who she really is, and when the book starts she's not super invested in her job or what she is doing, ultimately she's just trying to save face for when she has to go back home (no one wants to go back home a failure).
So Aaron is Melody's new neighbor and he has a set of demons on his back. He made it big in the music scene and he crashed it to the ground, hard. He came from a harder childhood, a father who passed and a mother who was more interested in alcohol then being a mother. So Aaron wants a second chance, and it's not that he wants to be famous or rich, he wants to take care of his little brother and I think he wants to prove to himself that he is more then the pile of mistakes in his past. As it turns out Melody works in PR, and Aaron has a place for her to crash when she gets evicted from her apartment.
They enter into this mutually beneficial arrangement, Aaron gets help relaunching his career, Melody gets a place to stay and a leg up at work to finally prove herself. And what works with these two is they have this great dynamic together, they really just fall into a rhythm and they laid a good foundation. Yes there is some serious heat between them, and that's obvious in some of the more steamy scenes, but you can tell early on it's more than just that to them. I will say this book is very sweet, and really enjoyable to read. I had the right pacing, the right level of heat, the right amount of heartwarming moments, it just really worked well together, a very enjoyable read for me.
I love book where people are starting over, or trying again, I think it's something that we can all relate to. I also like books about musicians, so when I realized this book was about a guy trying to get a second chance in the music business, I was kinda sold on it. Also think what really worked about this book is that both Melody and Aaron are getting there lives together and they are doing it in kind of a symbiotic way, so their journeys kind of run parallel, which actually makes it really enjoyable.
So the book kind of starts with Melody, she's basically kind of down on her luck. She's recently been demoted at work, went from having an office with a view to being in the cubicles with the interns, and with a serious cashflow problem, rent and other things are seriously becoming an issue for her. Melody was interesting for me because she has this kind of attitude about her (like not in a bad way) but the reality is she's a small town girl, and she's never really colored outside the lines. Sure, she's tried to go out and paint the town red, but it never really seems to work out that way. I think she has the idea of what she is suppose to be, but isn't who she really is, and when the book starts she's not super invested in her job or what she is doing, ultimately she's just trying to save face for when she has to go back home (no one wants to go back home a failure).
So Aaron is Melody's new neighbor and he has a set of demons on his back. He made it big in the music scene and he crashed it to the ground, hard. He came from a harder childhood, a father who passed and a mother who was more interested in alcohol then being a mother. So Aaron wants a second chance, and it's not that he wants to be famous or rich, he wants to take care of his little brother and I think he wants to prove to himself that he is more then the pile of mistakes in his past. As it turns out Melody works in PR, and Aaron has a place for her to crash when she gets evicted from her apartment.
They enter into this mutually beneficial arrangement, Aaron gets help relaunching his career, Melody gets a place to stay and a leg up at work to finally prove herself. And what works with these two is they have this great dynamic together, they really just fall into a rhythm and they laid a good foundation. Yes there is some serious heat between them, and that's obvious in some of the more steamy scenes, but you can tell early on it's more than just that to them. I will say this book is very sweet, and really enjoyable to read. I had the right pacing, the right level of heat, the right amount of heartwarming moments, it just really worked well together, a very enjoyable read for me.
October 23, 2015
3.5 Stars
This was a quick, fun read that had some sweet, a bit of heat, and some fun characters that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. I really like the setting of this series - the Elite PR firm is filled with some great characters that all seem to have an interesting story to tell. After being introduced to Melody in the first book (Caught), and then being hooked in by a small teaser about Melody at the end of that book, I was looking forward to finding out more and seeing how her happy ever after would play out.
I really enjoyed Melody and Aaron. Both have experienced some pretty tough times and are trying to turn things around. Aaron is trying to clean up his act and find his way back to the top of the country music charts. Melody has to find a way to salvage her PR career that she has single-handedly derailed and decide what’s next for her in her life – stay in Atlanta and continue trying to make a go of things, or head back home and admit defeat. When fate brings these two together the timing couldn’t be more perfect – not only can they help each other find redemption in their respective careers, but they also manage to find their way into each other’s heart.
There was definitely tension between Melody and Aaron, and you just knew that keeping things professional was going to be virtually impossible for these two. For me, this story was a bit on the tamer side of a Brazen book, especially since it always seemed that there was something keeping these two apart – be it an interruption or their own doing by agreeing to keep things professional. And even once they agreed to cross that line it seemed they just couldn’t get their timing right. There were a few steamy scenes, but there was more sweet than heat, which for me worked just fine.
I really enjoyed the backdrop of the PR side of the music scene and watching Melody pull off the launch party. The secondary characters added nicely to the story, be it Aaron’s manager who was out to sabotage Aaron & Mel’s relationship, or Aaron’s brother who let us see a real caring side of Aaron that otherwise wouldn’t have come out. And of course a trip to Elite PR wouldn’t be complete with at least a mention of the Weasel and Miranda, and I loved meeting Genn – she had me laughing with her dressing for success, or rather dressing to keep the bosses hands off of her!
Overall this was fun read that had a lot packed in between the pages. I would definitely recommend this one anyone looking for a quick read with some sweet, some heat and a nice happy ever after!
I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
This was a quick, fun read that had some sweet, a bit of heat, and some fun characters that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. I really like the setting of this series - the Elite PR firm is filled with some great characters that all seem to have an interesting story to tell. After being introduced to Melody in the first book (Caught), and then being hooked in by a small teaser about Melody at the end of that book, I was looking forward to finding out more and seeing how her happy ever after would play out.
I really enjoyed Melody and Aaron. Both have experienced some pretty tough times and are trying to turn things around. Aaron is trying to clean up his act and find his way back to the top of the country music charts. Melody has to find a way to salvage her PR career that she has single-handedly derailed and decide what’s next for her in her life – stay in Atlanta and continue trying to make a go of things, or head back home and admit defeat. When fate brings these two together the timing couldn’t be more perfect – not only can they help each other find redemption in their respective careers, but they also manage to find their way into each other’s heart.
There was definitely tension between Melody and Aaron, and you just knew that keeping things professional was going to be virtually impossible for these two. For me, this story was a bit on the tamer side of a Brazen book, especially since it always seemed that there was something keeping these two apart – be it an interruption or their own doing by agreeing to keep things professional. And even once they agreed to cross that line it seemed they just couldn’t get their timing right. There were a few steamy scenes, but there was more sweet than heat, which for me worked just fine.
I really enjoyed the backdrop of the PR side of the music scene and watching Melody pull off the launch party. The secondary characters added nicely to the story, be it Aaron’s manager who was out to sabotage Aaron & Mel’s relationship, or Aaron’s brother who let us see a real caring side of Aaron that otherwise wouldn’t have come out. And of course a trip to Elite PR wouldn’t be complete with at least a mention of the Weasel and Miranda, and I loved meeting Genn – she had me laughing with her dressing for success, or rather dressing to keep the bosses hands off of her!
Overall this was fun read that had a lot packed in between the pages. I would definitely recommend this one anyone looking for a quick read with some sweet, some heat and a nice happy ever after!
I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
October 20, 2015
3.5/5
Although I haven't read the first book in the Elite PR series I don't feel as if it had an impact on my enjoyment or understanding of Played. The characters from the previous story are mentioned but do not play an integral part in the plot, this also helps while reviewing not to give spoilers for the previous stories :)
Written in third person narrative with the focus switching between the main characters, Mel and Aaron. Both Mal and Aaron have a pile of emotional baggage they are carrying around with them; preventing them from opening themselves up to other people especially each other fully. While Aaron's issues play a major role in the plot it is Mel's story that takes centre stage.
Mel has been raised as arm candy all her life, when her carefully laid out future is abruptly altered by the end of her long-term relationship, leaving her small town Mel creates the impression of success in order to stand above the gossip. However, the humiliation and lack of parental expectation weigh heavily on Mel's subconscious. Mel has invested her happiness on the pretence of success, when her achievements are put under pressure Mel finds herself in a downward spiral, unable to muster enthusiasm for anything in her life and inevitably believing she lacks substance, her only option to become the trophy wife her parents envisaged.
Played has a lot more than romance occurring within the plot; themes of identity and issues of feminism provide food for thought. It also makes you question the role parents play in self-esteem issues, with low parental expectations a person can either become very driven in order to prove them wrong or end up becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy. It is not an easy position to be in. Played also takes a look at how motivation and inspiration from others can affect our belief in ourselves, shown by the support system Mel has with her friends. It begs the question of the effectiveness of life coaching :)
Throughout the narrative Mel and Aaron are confronted with their emotional baggage forcing them to recognise their own weaknesses and in order to overcome them, develop effective coping strategies. I do adore a thought-provoking plot dealing with human nature while providing real-life solutions :)
Played really is so much more than a smexy romance; music, themes of identity and self belief work together to capture the attention and create admiration for the characters and their journey ♥
Although I haven't read the first book in the Elite PR series I don't feel as if it had an impact on my enjoyment or understanding of Played. The characters from the previous story are mentioned but do not play an integral part in the plot, this also helps while reviewing not to give spoilers for the previous stories :)
Written in third person narrative with the focus switching between the main characters, Mel and Aaron. Both Mal and Aaron have a pile of emotional baggage they are carrying around with them; preventing them from opening themselves up to other people especially each other fully. While Aaron's issues play a major role in the plot it is Mel's story that takes centre stage.
Mel has been raised as arm candy all her life, when her carefully laid out future is abruptly altered by the end of her long-term relationship, leaving her small town Mel creates the impression of success in order to stand above the gossip. However, the humiliation and lack of parental expectation weigh heavily on Mel's subconscious. Mel has invested her happiness on the pretence of success, when her achievements are put under pressure Mel finds herself in a downward spiral, unable to muster enthusiasm for anything in her life and inevitably believing she lacks substance, her only option to become the trophy wife her parents envisaged.
Played has a lot more than romance occurring within the plot; themes of identity and issues of feminism provide food for thought. It also makes you question the role parents play in self-esteem issues, with low parental expectations a person can either become very driven in order to prove them wrong or end up becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy. It is not an easy position to be in. Played also takes a look at how motivation and inspiration from others can affect our belief in ourselves, shown by the support system Mel has with her friends. It begs the question of the effectiveness of life coaching :)
Throughout the narrative Mel and Aaron are confronted with their emotional baggage forcing them to recognise their own weaknesses and in order to overcome them, develop effective coping strategies. I do adore a thought-provoking plot dealing with human nature while providing real-life solutions :)
Played really is so much more than a smexy romance; music, themes of identity and self belief work together to capture the attention and create admiration for the characters and their journey ♥
October 18, 2015
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/
I was given an advanced copy of this book to write an honest review for Entangled Books and Cocktails and Books.
I read CAUGHT, the first book in the Elite PR series and I fell in love with the book and Clare James’ writing style, so I was excited to read her newest book PLAYED. This is the second book in the series, each book is a standalone and the characters are interconnected.
When Aaron Major moves in across the hall from Melody Sharp things are not going well for either one of them. Aaron is a sexy country star who had it all, but because of his reckless behavior, he lost his record contract. Now, he is trying to make a comeback and Melody is a distraction he doesn’t need. I liked Aaron; he is vulnerable and unsure of himself, yet he can also be cocky and confident. He has made a lot of mistakes in the past and hurt himself and other people along the way. He wants to make amends and is afraid of falling back into his bad habits, so he has cut himself off from anything that could be a distraction.
When Melody finds out Aaron is trying to make a comeback, she wants to be his PR representative. Melody had been a successful PR representative until recently when her boss from hell demoted her. She needs something big to jump start her career and she hopes Aaron is the answer.
From the moment Aaron and Melody meet, there is lot of chemistry flowing between them, although they try to ignore it, because right now, neither one of them wants to spend time on a relationship. They need to put all their energy into fixing their careers. Melody and Aaron are good together and they have a steamy relationship, but are afraid to let anyone into their hearts. Aaron makes Melody feel alive; until she meets him, she has just been going through the motions. What Aaron and Melody don’t seem to realize is how talented they are and how much they have to offer. Luckily they see the best in each other, even though they don’t see it in themselves. Melody is smart and sexy and knows what to do to make Aaron a success. Aaron thinks the world of Melody and he wants to help her feel good in every way. Aaron and Melody learn sometimes life doesn’t go exactly as planned and you have to grab opportunities when they come your way. This is a fun, delightful, romantic story with lots of steamy scenes.
I was given an advanced copy of this book to write an honest review for Entangled Books and Cocktails and Books.
I read CAUGHT, the first book in the Elite PR series and I fell in love with the book and Clare James’ writing style, so I was excited to read her newest book PLAYED. This is the second book in the series, each book is a standalone and the characters are interconnected.
When Aaron Major moves in across the hall from Melody Sharp things are not going well for either one of them. Aaron is a sexy country star who had it all, but because of his reckless behavior, he lost his record contract. Now, he is trying to make a comeback and Melody is a distraction he doesn’t need. I liked Aaron; he is vulnerable and unsure of himself, yet he can also be cocky and confident. He has made a lot of mistakes in the past and hurt himself and other people along the way. He wants to make amends and is afraid of falling back into his bad habits, so he has cut himself off from anything that could be a distraction.
When Melody finds out Aaron is trying to make a comeback, she wants to be his PR representative. Melody had been a successful PR representative until recently when her boss from hell demoted her. She needs something big to jump start her career and she hopes Aaron is the answer.
From the moment Aaron and Melody meet, there is lot of chemistry flowing between them, although they try to ignore it, because right now, neither one of them wants to spend time on a relationship. They need to put all their energy into fixing their careers. Melody and Aaron are good together and they have a steamy relationship, but are afraid to let anyone into their hearts. Aaron makes Melody feel alive; until she meets him, she has just been going through the motions. What Aaron and Melody don’t seem to realize is how talented they are and how much they have to offer. Luckily they see the best in each other, even though they don’t see it in themselves. Melody is smart and sexy and knows what to do to make Aaron a success. Aaron thinks the world of Melody and he wants to help her feel good in every way. Aaron and Melody learn sometimes life doesn’t go exactly as planned and you have to grab opportunities when they come your way. This is a fun, delightful, romantic story with lots of steamy scenes.
October 21, 2015
Since I finished Caught, the first book in Clare James’ Elite PR series, I have been eagerly anticipating Played. Clare James did not disappoint!! This book is all kinds of sweet and spicy. The characters are well developed – you want to know them, hang out with them and maybe even make bad choices with them.
The backdrop for Played is a PR agency and it really feels like we get a behind-the-curtain view of what it takes to be successful in the industry – from the do’s and don’t’s of social media, to launching an event and reimaging a person’s look. It felt really authentic.
Melody Sharp had the potential to live up to her name, she was just having a quarter life crisis. She needed guidance and she got it in a roundabout way from her boss, Miranda Wells who dealt in tough love like a Vegas blackjack dealer. My favorite Mel moments were those when she channeled Miranda is ways that were way more positive. She was steel magnolia in hiding whose confidence was wavering. Once she gained, it look out.
Aaron Major – I could do all kinds of word play here, but you don’t really want me to. He really was just such an amazing man. His life has been a series of lessons and it how they informed the person he has become made him a character that you couldn’t help falling in love with, right along with Mel. He was by no means perfect, but what I loved is that he owned the mistakes of his past and was determined not to repeat them. He was the perfect foil for Mel as he was nearing the end of his own funk and was able to be that person for her when she needed him. Those moments were my favorites – Aaron just made me swoon.
Aaron and Mel together were such a perfect balance to each other. I loved their inner-dialogues as they tried to tamp down their physical attraction. Even in the moments where they didn’t, it was this perfect slow burn that had me reaching for a cool drink.
One other element of this book that I absolutely loved was relationship that Clare created between Mel, her friend Genn and Tiffany the intern — it is a wonderful to see women coming together and supporting one another personally and professionally. I loved see those types of things positive characteristics modeled in a book.
I really hope that there is another to this series – I love these characters and can’t wait to read more about them!!!
The backdrop for Played is a PR agency and it really feels like we get a behind-the-curtain view of what it takes to be successful in the industry – from the do’s and don’t’s of social media, to launching an event and reimaging a person’s look. It felt really authentic.
Melody Sharp had the potential to live up to her name, she was just having a quarter life crisis. She needed guidance and she got it in a roundabout way from her boss, Miranda Wells who dealt in tough love like a Vegas blackjack dealer. My favorite Mel moments were those when she channeled Miranda is ways that were way more positive. She was steel magnolia in hiding whose confidence was wavering. Once she gained, it look out.
Aaron Major – I could do all kinds of word play here, but you don’t really want me to. He really was just such an amazing man. His life has been a series of lessons and it how they informed the person he has become made him a character that you couldn’t help falling in love with, right along with Mel. He was by no means perfect, but what I loved is that he owned the mistakes of his past and was determined not to repeat them. He was the perfect foil for Mel as he was nearing the end of his own funk and was able to be that person for her when she needed him. Those moments were my favorites – Aaron just made me swoon.
Aaron and Mel together were such a perfect balance to each other. I loved their inner-dialogues as they tried to tamp down their physical attraction. Even in the moments where they didn’t, it was this perfect slow burn that had me reaching for a cool drink.
One other element of this book that I absolutely loved was relationship that Clare created between Mel, her friend Genn and Tiffany the intern — it is a wonderful to see women coming together and supporting one another personally and professionally. I loved see those types of things positive characteristics modeled in a book.
I really hope that there is another to this series – I love these characters and can’t wait to read more about them!!!
October 23, 2015
YAY! So, I read the first novel in this series (CAUGHT in the Elite PR series) and I loved the premise of the book and the amazing leading lady in it. So, when I heard that Clare James had written the second book, I was totally on board with reading it. And wow! If it's even possible, I think it's better than the first!
I loved Melody as the leading lady in this book. She's the perfect heroine, struggling to get her life back on track after a snafu at work, and from page one I was on board with her dilemma. She's all sorts of spunky and fun, with just the right amount of sweet reserve, and I totally loved the opening scene where she meets Aaron in the hallway, but doesn't get a glimpse of his face. She's all hell-fire and sass and she's just the sort of woman that you want to be besties with.
Just to digress a second- as for the besties, the women who play secondary characters in this book deserve a shout out too. Genn is amazing and fun and the perfect person to tell Melody that she's capable of everything she sets out to do. And Tiffany! Yay! She might very well be "just an intern," but that girl makes shit happen and I totally loved that she gets her own sort of happy ending, thanks to Melody. Smart, strong women, for the win! Thank you, Clare James for that!
Okay- back to our scheduled programming. It's time to talk about Aaron Major. Holy heck- this cowboy is all sort of smoking hot. I loved that he doesn't start out all charm and polish. He's honest and eager to please and is just the most refreshing of romance heroes. Readers are going to LOVE them some Aaron Major.
Something else totally awesome about this book (besides the totally amazing characters), is how absolutely steamy and sexy it is without immediately going to- well...the sex! Sure, Melody and Aaron do eventually get it on, but the slow burn, sexual tension and acts that get them to that point are everything! This book is all about the romantic and sexual tension, so when these two characters finally do the deed, you're like- YES! It's so hot!
So- in case it wasn't glaringly obvious from this review, I loved this book. It has everything I love in a Brazen romance, and I'm now anxiously awaiting another Elite PR novel. *hint*
I loved Melody as the leading lady in this book. She's the perfect heroine, struggling to get her life back on track after a snafu at work, and from page one I was on board with her dilemma. She's all sorts of spunky and fun, with just the right amount of sweet reserve, and I totally loved the opening scene where she meets Aaron in the hallway, but doesn't get a glimpse of his face. She's all hell-fire and sass and she's just the sort of woman that you want to be besties with.
Just to digress a second- as for the besties, the women who play secondary characters in this book deserve a shout out too. Genn is amazing and fun and the perfect person to tell Melody that she's capable of everything she sets out to do. And Tiffany! Yay! She might very well be "just an intern," but that girl makes shit happen and I totally loved that she gets her own sort of happy ending, thanks to Melody. Smart, strong women, for the win! Thank you, Clare James for that!
Okay- back to our scheduled programming. It's time to talk about Aaron Major. Holy heck- this cowboy is all sort of smoking hot. I loved that he doesn't start out all charm and polish. He's honest and eager to please and is just the most refreshing of romance heroes. Readers are going to LOVE them some Aaron Major.
Something else totally awesome about this book (besides the totally amazing characters), is how absolutely steamy and sexy it is without immediately going to- well...the sex! Sure, Melody and Aaron do eventually get it on, but the slow burn, sexual tension and acts that get them to that point are everything! This book is all about the romantic and sexual tension, so when these two characters finally do the deed, you're like- YES! It's so hot!
So- in case it wasn't glaringly obvious from this review, I loved this book. It has everything I love in a Brazen romance, and I'm now anxiously awaiting another Elite PR novel. *hint*
October 18, 2015
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Melody is going through a rough patch. She has been demoted at work and abruptly evicted from her apartment. Luckily for her, her hot new neighbor takes pity on her and let's her stay overnight in his guest room. But fate is about to intervene. You see, that new neighbor happens to be fallen country singer Aaron Major. And it turns out he is planning a comeback. And guess what? Melody works in PR. (Don't ya just love when it all comes together!) So before he knows it, Aaron not only has a new PR firm, but also a new roommate. Talk about Hurricane Melody!
I loved Melody. She was so spunky and despite the setbacks in her life, once she saw the way back, she went full speed ahead and didn't let anything get in her way (Hurricane Melody indeed!). And I felt that she was just what Aaron needed. He had reservations about getting involved with her (personally and professionally) because she reminded him of some aspects of his previous life, the one he is trying to forget, but in some ways she really didn't give him chance to say no. Once he saw what she could do for him (again, both personally and professionally) he sat back and enjoyed the ride.
And as a couple Melody and Aaron were fantastic and I thought they had great chemistry. When Aaron moved into his apartment and first met Melody you could tell that they were attracted to each other. But once they formed a friendship/working relationship, the physical aspect came quite easily. Plus it helped that their chemistry translated into some really steamy scenes that had me fanning myself!
This was a quick read for me. I found myself invested in the story line and I really wanted Melody to succeed and help Aaron become the performer he wanted to be. She believed in him, as an artist, from the beginning and wanted to help him as much as, if not more, than she wanted her own career to benefit from his success. How sweet is that??
If you read the first book in this series, Caught, I definitely recommend reading this one. Vivian and Jarod are mentioned a few times and we get a kind of update on how they are doing.
Melody is going through a rough patch. She has been demoted at work and abruptly evicted from her apartment. Luckily for her, her hot new neighbor takes pity on her and let's her stay overnight in his guest room. But fate is about to intervene. You see, that new neighbor happens to be fallen country singer Aaron Major. And it turns out he is planning a comeback. And guess what? Melody works in PR. (Don't ya just love when it all comes together!) So before he knows it, Aaron not only has a new PR firm, but also a new roommate. Talk about Hurricane Melody!
I loved Melody. She was so spunky and despite the setbacks in her life, once she saw the way back, she went full speed ahead and didn't let anything get in her way (Hurricane Melody indeed!). And I felt that she was just what Aaron needed. He had reservations about getting involved with her (personally and professionally) because she reminded him of some aspects of his previous life, the one he is trying to forget, but in some ways she really didn't give him chance to say no. Once he saw what she could do for him (again, both personally and professionally) he sat back and enjoyed the ride.
And as a couple Melody and Aaron were fantastic and I thought they had great chemistry. When Aaron moved into his apartment and first met Melody you could tell that they were attracted to each other. But once they formed a friendship/working relationship, the physical aspect came quite easily. Plus it helped that their chemistry translated into some really steamy scenes that had me fanning myself!
This was a quick read for me. I found myself invested in the story line and I really wanted Melody to succeed and help Aaron become the performer he wanted to be. She believed in him, as an artist, from the beginning and wanted to help him as much as, if not more, than she wanted her own career to benefit from his success. How sweet is that??
If you read the first book in this series, Caught, I definitely recommend reading this one. Vivian and Jarod are mentioned a few times and we get a kind of update on how they are doing.
October 26, 2015
Becky's Review
Played, the second book in Clare James’s Elite PR series, is a sweet little country love song of a book. The two central characters in this story, Melody Sharp and Aaron Major, are both working on making comebacks. Aaron needs to reboot his career as a country star and Melody needs to reboot hers in the competitive world of public relations. The heart of this story is really about two people who are looking to regain their identity and find something else along the way.
I really enjoyed reading Played. Even though it’s the second in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. One of my favorite things about this story were the characters of Aaron and Melody and the way they mirrored one another. They’re both on a road to redemption and both of their egos have been bruised. Melody does a bit of soul-searching because when she left her tiny hometown after being jilted by a boyfriend, she’s hell bent on proving her ex and everyone back home that she’s somebody. Along the way though, she loses herself and doesn’t really know what she truly wants. I loved seeing Melody finally realize who she is and what she wants and enjoyed seeing her go after it. Aaron is in a similar predicament. He crashed and burned as a young country star and after stepping away from the spotlight, he’s ready to return. He works just as hard as Melody for to regain his confidence and swagger. Clare James does an excellent job of giving her readers the opportunity to see her characters transform.
Reading Played was like a breath of fresh air. It’s a sweet little story but I still longed for a little bit of tension and angst. Clare James really lets the relationship between Aaron and Melody develop. She doesn’t rush it. But I missed those obstacles; I felt like Aaron and Melody needed some curves thrown at them. James provides a few minor hiccups, but nothing to truly rock the boat.
If you’re looking to take a break from those complicated alphas, then Played is the perfect story for you to one-click!
Played, the second book in Clare James’s Elite PR series, is a sweet little country love song of a book. The two central characters in this story, Melody Sharp and Aaron Major, are both working on making comebacks. Aaron needs to reboot his career as a country star and Melody needs to reboot hers in the competitive world of public relations. The heart of this story is really about two people who are looking to regain their identity and find something else along the way.
I really enjoyed reading Played. Even though it’s the second in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. One of my favorite things about this story were the characters of Aaron and Melody and the way they mirrored one another. They’re both on a road to redemption and both of their egos have been bruised. Melody does a bit of soul-searching because when she left her tiny hometown after being jilted by a boyfriend, she’s hell bent on proving her ex and everyone back home that she’s somebody. Along the way though, she loses herself and doesn’t really know what she truly wants. I loved seeing Melody finally realize who she is and what she wants and enjoyed seeing her go after it. Aaron is in a similar predicament. He crashed and burned as a young country star and after stepping away from the spotlight, he’s ready to return. He works just as hard as Melody for to regain his confidence and swagger. Clare James does an excellent job of giving her readers the opportunity to see her characters transform.
Reading Played was like a breath of fresh air. It’s a sweet little story but I still longed for a little bit of tension and angst. Clare James really lets the relationship between Aaron and Melody develop. She doesn’t rush it. But I missed those obstacles; I felt like Aaron and Melody needed some curves thrown at them. James provides a few minor hiccups, but nothing to truly rock the boat.
If you’re looking to take a break from those complicated alphas, then Played is the perfect story for you to one-click!
October 21, 2015
Received in exchange for a honest review
Of all the characters in this book it was Aaron that I loved the most. I loved how he learned from the sins of his past and was trying to get beyond that. I loved that he was making an effort to become who he wants to be and not what others thought or expected of him.
Melody when you begin is a little whiney. she is lost. Has lost her way in life and has lost passion. Passion in everything. As a character she shows the most growth. she goes from being whiney and self destructive to a strong take charge business woman who now has confidence in her abilities and has found someone to love and care for her. She does have some wariness when it comes to Aaron though.
Aaron is not what people think. He is struggling to find his place. He loves music but doesn’t love the world of music. His desire is to sing and write and support his brother. When the story begins he fears relationships and family because he has seen what the music world does to them first hand. After he meets Melody he finds his muse and begins to change his tune on what he needs, wants and desires. They help each other resurrect their careers, become stronger more aware people and support one another. they find love when they are least expecting it and stumble at first out of fear but in the end they are great together.
this is a fun no holds bar book about reinventing yourself, gaining confidence in who you are and what you can do and finding the one person who makes your days brighter and supports you. Aaron and Melody are wonderful sweet characters who with the help of each other gain the strength to see that they will make it, are better and stronger than they think and find love in each other. Aaron’s song to Melody so swoony. the romance is one based on attraction and friendship they come to respect and rely on each other. A great journey of two people finding their way in life and to each other.
Of all the characters in this book it was Aaron that I loved the most. I loved how he learned from the sins of his past and was trying to get beyond that. I loved that he was making an effort to become who he wants to be and not what others thought or expected of him.
Melody when you begin is a little whiney. she is lost. Has lost her way in life and has lost passion. Passion in everything. As a character she shows the most growth. she goes from being whiney and self destructive to a strong take charge business woman who now has confidence in her abilities and has found someone to love and care for her. She does have some wariness when it comes to Aaron though.
Aaron is not what people think. He is struggling to find his place. He loves music but doesn’t love the world of music. His desire is to sing and write and support his brother. When the story begins he fears relationships and family because he has seen what the music world does to them first hand. After he meets Melody he finds his muse and begins to change his tune on what he needs, wants and desires. They help each other resurrect their careers, become stronger more aware people and support one another. they find love when they are least expecting it and stumble at first out of fear but in the end they are great together.
this is a fun no holds bar book about reinventing yourself, gaining confidence in who you are and what you can do and finding the one person who makes your days brighter and supports you. Aaron and Melody are wonderful sweet characters who with the help of each other gain the strength to see that they will make it, are better and stronger than they think and find love in each other. Aaron’s song to Melody so swoony. the romance is one based on attraction and friendship they come to respect and rely on each other. A great journey of two people finding their way in life and to each other.
October 23, 2015
Yay--Mel's story!
Her best friend's left town (Viv from Caught ), work is no longer inspiring her--in fact, she's been demoted in a big way--and now she's getting emails from her ex. She's behind on all her bills and it's almost time for the biggest party of the year back home, which she has to attend and her ex will be at this year as well, so...yeah. Things have been better.
And then Aaron Majors moves into her building...
Aaron had a pretty miserable second half of a childhood and a really disastrous first chance at fame, but now he's determined to make it back to be a better provider for his little brother, who'll be starting college soon. Everything in his background tells him that the music industry and relationships don't work. But his new roomie/PR person has something about her that's hard to resist...
Fortunately for us :)
I loved Aaron and Mel together--they're an adorable couple, not to mention they definitely know how to bring the steam, though somehow this book managed to come out on the sweet side overall. Their relationship black moment ending up being a fairly small blip on the radar and was fixed rather easily, so that might be part of it, though honestly I didn't really want to see them stuck in a big, angsty scene. The ending comes fairly quickly--Aaron goes pretty fast from "no relationships" to "I love you" (and a little bit more) but since I really wanted them to get together anyway, it's hard to find fault with that. :)
This one would work just fine as a standalone--Viv's mentioned a few times, along with the reason why she's moved away--but there's nothing that happened in book one that you'll need to have read to start Played.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Her best friend's left town (Viv from Caught ), work is no longer inspiring her--in fact, she's been demoted in a big way--and now she's getting emails from her ex. She's behind on all her bills and it's almost time for the biggest party of the year back home, which she has to attend and her ex will be at this year as well, so...yeah. Things have been better.
And then Aaron Majors moves into her building...
Aaron had a pretty miserable second half of a childhood and a really disastrous first chance at fame, but now he's determined to make it back to be a better provider for his little brother, who'll be starting college soon. Everything in his background tells him that the music industry and relationships don't work. But his new roomie/PR person has something about her that's hard to resist...
Fortunately for us :)
I loved Aaron and Mel together--they're an adorable couple, not to mention they definitely know how to bring the steam, though somehow this book managed to come out on the sweet side overall. Their relationship black moment ending up being a fairly small blip on the radar and was fixed rather easily, so that might be part of it, though honestly I didn't really want to see them stuck in a big, angsty scene. The ending comes fairly quickly--Aaron goes pretty fast from "no relationships" to "I love you" (and a little bit more) but since I really wanted them to get together anyway, it's hard to find fault with that. :)
This one would work just fine as a standalone--Viv's mentioned a few times, along with the reason why she's moved away--but there's nothing that happened in book one that you'll need to have read to start Played.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2015
I received a copy of Played by Clare James.
Melody feels like she’s floating since her best friend left to move in with her racecar-driving boyfriend. Now Melody is dropping the ball at work and with her apartment. After meeting with her very hot cowboy neighbor and being kicked out of her apartment and moves in with her hunky country-singing neighbor.
Aaron Major has been in the limelight before and after realizing there are more important things to do than drugs and women he leaves fame and fortune to find himself. His plan was to stay away from women and stay focused on getting his career back the safe way. That is until Melody is kicked out and he offers her a place to stay.
Aaron has lived a hard life and all he wants to do is take care of his brother and play music again. With help from Melody with her work as a PR he works on his image to be the cowboy everyone wants and the guy he was always meant to be.
Aaron Major was a great character. He’s very genuine and sweet and caring. While he’s not into the whole PR thing he liked Melody enough to try. Aaron is a sexy cowboy with a lovely voice and sleeps naked which is a hilarious scene. I enjoy how much he bends to Melody and how much he cares about her.
Melody is unsure about her life when she runs into Aaron and to get back into her bosses good graces she takes Aaron on as a job. Melody has some major character growth in this story and comes from running away from her past to facing it.
I have to say while I really enjoyed this story I didn’t like that Aaron and Melody’s relationship moved so quickly. It happens at the end, I just wish it hadn’t ended that way.
Played is a fantastic story with great writing, characters, and romance.
Melody feels like she’s floating since her best friend left to move in with her racecar-driving boyfriend. Now Melody is dropping the ball at work and with her apartment. After meeting with her very hot cowboy neighbor and being kicked out of her apartment and moves in with her hunky country-singing neighbor.
Aaron Major has been in the limelight before and after realizing there are more important things to do than drugs and women he leaves fame and fortune to find himself. His plan was to stay away from women and stay focused on getting his career back the safe way. That is until Melody is kicked out and he offers her a place to stay.
Aaron has lived a hard life and all he wants to do is take care of his brother and play music again. With help from Melody with her work as a PR he works on his image to be the cowboy everyone wants and the guy he was always meant to be.
Aaron Major was a great character. He’s very genuine and sweet and caring. While he’s not into the whole PR thing he liked Melody enough to try. Aaron is a sexy cowboy with a lovely voice and sleeps naked which is a hilarious scene. I enjoy how much he bends to Melody and how much he cares about her.
Melody is unsure about her life when she runs into Aaron and to get back into her bosses good graces she takes Aaron on as a job. Melody has some major character growth in this story and comes from running away from her past to facing it.
I have to say while I really enjoyed this story I didn’t like that Aaron and Melody’s relationship moved so quickly. It happens at the end, I just wish it hadn’t ended that way.
Played is a fantastic story with great writing, characters, and romance.
October 24, 2015
This is book 2 in the Elite PR series and the MC are Aaron Major and Melody Sharp. Aaron is a country singer who is just wanting to be a singer but realizing there is more to being “IN” country singing than just a singer, there is a whole persona –the look, the perception to making him Famous and for that, they have to create the image to get him there. So his team calls him PR guru Melody Sharp to make him that IT guy in country music. When Melody meets Aaron –he comes across as a jerk- on stage he is electric and nice but off stage, he is not very friendly and he is a nightmare client-one she could do without. Aaron wants control of his life and Melody wants to control his image and it is a give and take for who will win power struggle. There is chemistry between the couple –at times it is hot and I liked that Melody can hold her own with Aaron’s smart mouth comments . I get it, he felt out of control in an element that he should feel like he knew more about. Overall, this was a good read , though at times it was slow. Slow in the beginning to get started yet when it did, wow, the story took off and it was good to see where the story went. The storyline has great potential and the ending was great. Seeing how far the MC came from the beginning is why I didn’t give the story a lower rating –There were several things that made me not push the score higher. The hero did have a bit of an attitude and took it out on the heroine and the flow was very slow but the ending made up for it so that is why I did give this the score I did. I also would recommend the story and I would read another story by this author.
My Rating: 3.5 stars ***
***A gifted copy was provided by the publisher for my honest review****
My Rating: 3.5 stars ***
***A gifted copy was provided by the publisher for my honest review****
October 21, 2015
Im on a HUGE country music kick right now (thank you Chase Rice and Sam Hunt) so when I saw the blurb for Played.. I knew I had to have this book. Clare James did not disappoint! Aaron Major is a has-been before he even really got started. He's a very talented country music singer but like many young stars.. he drank too much, partied too much and spent too much money. That can only last so long and then the star burns out. Literally.
Melody Sharp is at the end of her rope with what is left of her career. Working for the Ice Queen at an upscale PR firm, shes already been demoted to "intern row" from a comfy corner office. Any more slip ups and she's out the door. She needs something big - a new client that will blow the Ice Queen's socks off. Her hot new neighbor should fit the bill nicely. Only problem... he wants HER, not her help with his career. He's cranky, reclusive and for a country singer, he's avoiding Nashville like the plague. Each of them NEED the other, but how can they grow both of their careers without burning themselves to the ground in the process?
This was a nice, easy read. Not a great deal of drama or complications.
I liked the characters but I didnt really love them. They both seemed like complete spoiled brats with little to no work ethic. The author did a very good job of developing both Aaron and Melody's characters, though; and the story flowed along just fine. Ive got to give credit where it is due - and Clare James can write one smoking hot sex scene. There were a couple of lines in the book that I had to highlight and save because WHOA... they were deliciously naughty. ;) I will definitely be looking for more from this author! I give Played 4****wickedgoodstars -asw
Melody Sharp is at the end of her rope with what is left of her career. Working for the Ice Queen at an upscale PR firm, shes already been demoted to "intern row" from a comfy corner office. Any more slip ups and she's out the door. She needs something big - a new client that will blow the Ice Queen's socks off. Her hot new neighbor should fit the bill nicely. Only problem... he wants HER, not her help with his career. He's cranky, reclusive and for a country singer, he's avoiding Nashville like the plague. Each of them NEED the other, but how can they grow both of their careers without burning themselves to the ground in the process?
This was a nice, easy read. Not a great deal of drama or complications.
I liked the characters but I didnt really love them. They both seemed like complete spoiled brats with little to no work ethic. The author did a very good job of developing both Aaron and Melody's characters, though; and the story flowed along just fine. Ive got to give credit where it is due - and Clare James can write one smoking hot sex scene. There were a couple of lines in the book that I had to highlight and save because WHOA... they were deliciously naughty. ;) I will definitely be looking for more from this author! I give Played 4****wickedgoodstars -asw
October 16, 2015
This is a great story by Clare James that just flows so well. There were just the right amount of everything that blended together to make this a pleasurable read.
Aaron is a young guy that got a big break as a singer early on in his life and quiet possible too early. Aaron has a hard time with all the political aspects of being famous and wants to take a step back and regroup with his career. Aaron has no fashion or business sense at all, but in comes Melody. Melody is a young lady that has just been demoted at her PR job and is having a rough time in life right now. She has been locked out of her apartment because she has not paid her rent for several months and that is when she meets Aaron. He is nice enough to offer her a place to stay until she can get things figured out. What Melody and Aaron both have no clue about is that Melody is just what Aaron needs. Melody is a PR pro and after getting to know Aaron a little thinks that she can help him out, but knows that she is going to have her work cut out for her.
Aaron and Melody are able to work together as well as keep their own personal goals in mind and work towards achieving them as well. There is a strong physical attraction to each other for these two and doesn't take long for there to also be an emotional connection that grows stronger through their time of working together.
So, how do things end for Aaron and Melody? Is Melody able to help Aaron and get him back into the right place with his stardom? You have to read this story to find out. Very well written and keeps your attention through the whole story. I am a fan of Clare James now for sure and long for more of Aaron and Melody!
Aaron is a young guy that got a big break as a singer early on in his life and quiet possible too early. Aaron has a hard time with all the political aspects of being famous and wants to take a step back and regroup with his career. Aaron has no fashion or business sense at all, but in comes Melody. Melody is a young lady that has just been demoted at her PR job and is having a rough time in life right now. She has been locked out of her apartment because she has not paid her rent for several months and that is when she meets Aaron. He is nice enough to offer her a place to stay until she can get things figured out. What Melody and Aaron both have no clue about is that Melody is just what Aaron needs. Melody is a PR pro and after getting to know Aaron a little thinks that she can help him out, but knows that she is going to have her work cut out for her.
Aaron and Melody are able to work together as well as keep their own personal goals in mind and work towards achieving them as well. There is a strong physical attraction to each other for these two and doesn't take long for there to also be an emotional connection that grows stronger through their time of working together.
So, how do things end for Aaron and Melody? Is Melody able to help Aaron and get him back into the right place with his stardom? You have to read this story to find out. Very well written and keeps your attention through the whole story. I am a fan of Clare James now for sure and long for more of Aaron and Melody!
October 19, 2015
3.5 stars.
A fun read, overall.
Here we have Melody and Aaron, meeting for the first time when he moves next door to her and then later developing a more professional relationship when he becomes her client at her PR agency.
Melody was having a really bad time in her life, it mostly related to the fact that she was super lost in life, she truly didn’t know what she wanted in life. Melody thought she’d be living a certain life by then, but when that doesn’t happen, she feels disappointed of everything, mostly herself. Which is why when she starts working with Aaron, she’s surprised that she actually likes her career, she just hadn’t found something exciting to work with.
I liked Melody, she was way better than she thought, and it was great seeing her realized her true worth. She also took crap from no one, and let’s face it, that’s always fun, lol.
Aaron was also a great character, with lots of history behind him. He came from a really crappy past, but also he went over the top when he was famous a few years back. With the help of Melody, this was going to be his come back and an opportunity to show his talent, not his mistakes. I liked Aaron and how much he wanted to be better for himself and his brother (whom I loved, btw).
There were fun times between these two, and some feeling of not being worth to the other, but those were easily forgotten once they saw they were worthy of each other and the success they were getting in life.
A nice read and continuation of the PR series.
*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange of my honest opinion*
A fun read, overall.
Here we have Melody and Aaron, meeting for the first time when he moves next door to her and then later developing a more professional relationship when he becomes her client at her PR agency.
Melody was having a really bad time in her life, it mostly related to the fact that she was super lost in life, she truly didn’t know what she wanted in life. Melody thought she’d be living a certain life by then, but when that doesn’t happen, she feels disappointed of everything, mostly herself. Which is why when she starts working with Aaron, she’s surprised that she actually likes her career, she just hadn’t found something exciting to work with.
I liked Melody, she was way better than she thought, and it was great seeing her realized her true worth. She also took crap from no one, and let’s face it, that’s always fun, lol.
Aaron was also a great character, with lots of history behind him. He came from a really crappy past, but also he went over the top when he was famous a few years back. With the help of Melody, this was going to be his come back and an opportunity to show his talent, not his mistakes. I liked Aaron and how much he wanted to be better for himself and his brother (whom I loved, btw).
There were fun times between these two, and some feeling of not being worth to the other, but those were easily forgotten once they saw they were worthy of each other and the success they were getting in life.
A nice read and continuation of the PR series.
*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange of my honest opinion*
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