The Play

The McGregor Brothers #3

by Karina Halle

A troubled Scottish rugby player who doesn't play by the rules.
A vivacious man-eater who's given up on love.
When it comes to Lachlan and Kayla, opposites don't just attract - they explode.

From the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of The Pact and The Offer, comes The Play, a standalone spinoff and contemporary romance about taking chances and rescuing hearts.

Kayla Moore has always been comfortable with her feisty, maneating reputation. At least it was fine until she hit her thirties and saw her best friends Stephanie and Nicola settle down with Linden and Bram McGregor, leaving Kayla to be the odd one out. Tired of being the third wheel with nothing but one-night stands and dead-end dates in San Francisco, Kayla decides to take a vow of celibacy and put men on the backburner.

That is until she lays her eyes on Linden and Bram’s cousin, hot Scot Lachlan McGregor. Lachlan is her sexual fantasy come to life – tall, tatted, and built like a Mack truck. With a steely gaze and successful rugby career back in Edinburgh, he’s the kind of man that makes her want to throw her vow right out the window. But Lachlan’s quiet and intense demeanor makes him a hard man to get to know, let alone get close to.

It isn’t until the two of them are thrown together one long, unforgettable night that Kayla realizes there is so much more to this brooding macho man than what meets the eye. But even with sparks flying between the two, Lachlan can’t stay in America forever. Now, Kayla has to decide whether to uproot her whole life and chance it all on someone she barely knows or risk getting burned once again.

Sometimes love is a game that just needs to be played.

Genres: Romance, Sports, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, New Adult, Sports Romance, Audiobook

568 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 3, 2015

About the author

Karina Halle is a screenwriter, former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times bestselling author of Grave Matter, Blood Orange, & The Royals Next Door, as well as 80 other romances across all sub-genres, ranging from spicy rom coms to gothic horror and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever you're into, she's probably written an HEA for it.

When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.

Reviews

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ stars!



A stunning, emotional and beautifully written story. A top favorite of 2015.

I’ve enjoyed all of Karina Halle’s books that I’ve read. The books in this series have been favorites of mine, but this book… THIS BOOK- not only is it the best book in this series, it’s Halle’s best book to date. I fell so hard into book love it’s been a week since I’ve read it and Lachlan and Kayla are still on my mind.

Kayla is friends with Stephanie and Nicola. She’s one of those women who doesn’t do relationships. She has friends, family and a job and it’s all she needs. Until she meets Bram and Linden’s Scottish cousin, Lachlan McGregor. Lachlan’s life has been far different from Kayla’s, and even though neither one are looking for a relationship of any kind, they are drawn to one another.

His eyes are deep, intense pools that pull me in. They welcome me to drown in them, tell me I might even enjoy it. I’m such a fucking goner. I was from day one.

Lachlan is visiting San Fransisco to help out Bram. He’s a rugby player and has to get back to Edinburg soon enough, but he’s here now. Once he meets Kayla, he can’t keep his mind off of her. Or his hands. He’s never felt this way about a woman and he doesn’t know what to do with his feelings. All he knows is that he’s not ready to leave Kayla behind. So he does the unthinkable and asks her to come with him. Kayla knows this is crazy but she goes.

I feel like it all belongs to me. It’s a startling thought, the idea that she could. It’s not just that it feels like she’s mine. It’s the idea that maybe, in another world, in another life, she could be.

Their time in Scotland was beautiful, emotional and devastating. Getting to see a different side of Lachlan and learning more about his past gutted me. I loved this characters so much. Every broken part of him. Lachlan has an ugly past. The man he is today is so different than the man he used to be. Lachlan helps stray and unwanted dogs. It’s such an admirable thing and a huge part of the story. He knows what it feels like to be cast aside and unwanted and it breaks my heart every time I think about his past and why he feels such a connection to those dogs.

Lachlan has never completely dealt with his past. He is and will always be fighting a war with himself, but Kayla see’s those parts of him, and loves him anyway.

“In the light of day, I can see all your cracks and your darkness and your flaws and I fall in love with it all. And I hope you can fall in love with everything that I am, all that lurks in my dark, all that shines in my light. I want you to love every little piece of me, because it all belongs to you.”

As I mentioned earlier, this is a top favorite of mine this year. I can’t think of one thing I didn’t love about this story. It was long, but it didn’t feel long. I didn’t want it to end. I loved these characters and their story fiercely. The Play was full of romance, steam, some angst, and tons of emotion. It’s a story that will hit you right in the feels and you all know thats my favorite kind. The writing is gorgeous and the characters are beautifully flawed and perfectly imperfect. I can’t recommend this one enough!



“The risks of love are always worth it.”

[Aestas Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting and loved it! It was a heart-warming, sexy romance featuring a swoony yet damaged Alpha hero with a painful past and a heart of gold, and a feisty, free-spirited heroine who he fell in love with. If you’re looking for a great new read, definitely give this one a shot!

The story is about Kayla who is seriously tired of dating and sleeping around for fun. Her friends have all settled down, she hasn’t met the one and so she decided to take a vow of celibacy. But the vow is cut short when she meets Lachlan, a smokin’ hot Scottish rugby player who is everything she ever dreamed of. He’s tall, tatted, broody and mysterious, but also very kind-hearted with a soft spot for rescuing stray dogs. But he’s reluctant to open up to anyone, making it hard for her to get to know him more.

“It isn’t until the two of them are thrown together one long, unforgettable night that Kayla realizes there is so much more to this brooding macho man than what meets the eye. But even with sparks flying between the two, Lachlan can’t stay in America forever. Now, Kayla has to decide whether to uproot her whole life and chance it all on someone she barely knows or risk getting burned once again.”

“Why the hell did I have to meet this beast, this superman, who blows my mind in the bedroom, mows down rugby players for a living, rescues helpless animals, looks like a fucking god, and just happens to cook, just before he has to leave?

I’m such a fan of the “opposites attract” kinds of romance and there’s no doubt that Kayla and Lahlan were about as opposite as could be. She’d grown up in a loving family, his had abandoned him. She was loud and outspoken, he was quiet and mysterious. She literally had no filter, he kept so much private. And yet… they just ‘clicked’ together, each somehow bringing out the best in each other.

At 432 pages, this is a fairly long book, but it flows very smoothly and even though I originally just intended to read a few chapters yesterday evening, I actually ended up reading the whole book in one sitting because I got lost in the story and just didn’t want to stop reading.

There’s very little drama, no cheating or triangles, it’s more just focused on some big life choices and hurdles to get through for both of them separately and together as a couple. I really enjoyed the writing style, I swooned over the romance, and felt very invested in their story. It’s sexy, hot, and steamy, but also well balanced with a forward moving plot, and loads of swoony feels.

I clear my throat, trying to act cool. “So, am I your girlfriend or what?”

He grins at me. “You’re my girlfriend. My girl. My woman. And I’m all yours.”

“My man,” I say, kissing the stubble on his cheek. “My beast.” I pause. “My sex slave.”

“Bloody right I am,” he says before kissing me so deeply that it steals my breath away.

This can be read as a complete standalone novel. It is slightly interconnected with the previous two books (The Pact and The Offer) but you can definitely read this without reading the other two. Basically, the only difference is that if you’ve read the other two books, you’ll be fully aware of her friends’ stories, and if you haven’t read them then her friends will just be random side characters to you. But knowing their stories doesn’t help appreciate this one so it’s really completely up to you and you’ll be fine either way.

Now, the final thing to mention is the author is very generously donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book to animal charities this week only (first week of release). Charities include Best Friends Animal Society, Battersea Dogs & Cats, Bad Rap, ASPCA and others that focus on rescues, adoption and fostering for dogs and cats.

“Just say the words, please. Tell me that you want to stay, that you’ll try and I promise you, I promise you, I will make it work out.”

Rating: 4 – 4.5 stars. Contemporary Adult Romance (can be standalone).
_______________________________________

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[Sleepless Readmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The goal is to laugh forever
with someone you take serious.

5 #CanIPleaseLickYourFace ? STARS

Lachlan and Kayla .. ♥

My name coming from his mouth sounds
like some kind of Gaelic dessert. Naturally
that thought puts an image of him spreading
me open on the table and eating
me like a dessert.

I'm stunned by the sight of him.
No, floored. My knees actually feel weak,
and I dig my heels down into the
grass to try and keep upright.

This book can be read as a standalone but if you ask me? I'd say read the other two prior to this one .. only to get a more enjoyable reading experience. Like the two novels prior I quite enjoyed this one as well as seeing these characters all progress and follow their journeys. The way that Lachlan and Kayla met couldn't be more perfect! She's completely bummed out rocking her #NoPantsParty shirt and drinking with the girls. I think I need to invest in this and wear it out ESPECIALLY if it attracts Tom Hardy look alikes. Then comes in T-R-O-U-B-L-E. If you ask me it's completely TIED! I absolutely adore all three of these fine specimens .. Linden, Bram, and Lachlan *SWOON*. Lachlan is the cousin of the other two and comes into town for business purposes. His Scottish brogue is a lot more stronger that his cousins. I imagine the brogue to sound something similar to this. This hunk is not lacking ANYWHERE .. clearly! He's also a professional rugby player .. come on Karina Halle he was already going to be a #BookBoyfriend now he's classified as #BookHusband material. Lachlan has to show off these awesome skills he's attained (RUGBY SKILLS THAT IS) and invites Kayla to spectate a game among strangers. One of my favorite parts was that rugby game between them. It does NOT get any hotter than that. I mean come on it's raining, the clothes are sticking to them, it's muddy and slippery, rolling around with one another, and those wet clothes are leaving very little to the imagination. It was incredibly HOT and sweet at the same time: I officially want to reenact this scenario. I completely agree with Bram when he says Kayla is a #SmittenKitten I mean can you blame her?!

"We should get coffee this week. If you want, that is."
"Coffee would be great," I say. Dick would be better, though.

I'll be the one if you want me to
Anywhere I would've followed you .. ►♫

I will never, ever run from you, Lachlan.
I'll only run toward you. Always.

Kayla. Can't say that I always like the female in novels because they always end up with my #BookBoyfriends. Kayla was an exception because I adored her. She does a lot of growing during the course of this novel. She's fiercely independent and quite admirable. Did I mention funny? Cause this lady is laugh out loud hilarious and got quite the sense of humour .. reading her thoughts was incredibly enjoyable! She tells it how it exactly is and isn't one to hold back. I'm glad that she found Lachlan because he was EXACTLY what she needed and then some.

"I'll never think you're anything other than beautiful."
"You know how to say all the right things," I tell him.
"Because I'm with the right girl," he says against my skin.

I'm losing myself in you. Every day.
And it's the most wonderful, terrifying feeling
in the world. If I'm being completely honest
here, you're starting to drive me a bit
mad in my affections for you.

Lachlan. You sir are a man of very few words although a pretty great listener. He has been through a lot of pain and hasn't had the easiest of upbringings. He made mistakes and was at the lowest he's ever been. Despite all that, he's grown to be such an incredible man. He may still have issues to resolve but he's coming to peace with them. Not a lot of people could get through to him however a special lady warmed and got through to his heart among other places. I quite enjoyed Lachlan and Kayla's novel and would recommend it. Karina Halle's writing keeps on getting better (if that's even possible) and I can easily say she has become one of my favorite authors.

The Play Karina Halle

[Amy | Foxy Blogs · Rating 5 out of 5]

#SaveTheForgotten



The moment you know a story will go from being great to epic happened for me early on when I saw the compassion Lachlan had for the forgotten dogs that roam the streets. I love how he could empathize with them. Society only looked at their outer appearances and made quick judgements that these dogs were unworthy. The parallel of Lachlan’s life and those whom he rescued was brilliant. It brought a whole deeper level to the story.

THE PLAY is a beautiful love story. I can understand why my friends are raving about this book. I, too, loved this one. How could I not?! It’s filled with heart and passion. The morning after I finished this story I woke up with a strong desire to go to the animal shelter. My dream the previous night was about me adopting a dog. Unfortunately, in my city you are only allowed to own two dogs and my family already has two. So, instead on Foxy Blogs we gave away 2 copies of this book. With every pre-sale and purchase up to Sunday (11/8/2015) a $1.00 goes to an animal charity.

THE LOW DOWN
➜ It’s a standalone
➜ It’s a spinoff of The Pact and The Offer (you were introduced to Lachlan in The Offer and saucy Kayla has been in all books)
➜ It’s contemporary romance
➜ It’s the size of 2 books for the price of 1
➜ Pre-orders and sales through the 8th - $1.00 goes to an animal charity
➜ After Sunday, November 8th - fundraising will be over and the price goes up.

If you are fan of Ms. Halle get this book!! And if you are new to her writing start with this one. It showcases her brilliant writing.

THE PLAY WILL MOVE YOU!

✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: 11/3/2015
Pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1VhW24P

**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**

[A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

This book is great! What’s not to love?

A hot Scottish rugby player.



A kick ass girl.



And pit bulls, those adorable and misunderstood living beings.

I’m the proud owner of the American Staffordshire Terrier, another breed with an unfair reputation, a breed that is often considered dangerous and is completely misunderstood, especially in Europe. Thank you Karina Halle for trying to show the world what a wonderful creatures they are.

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

$1 from all preorders of The Play will be donated to animal charities
http://www.amazon.com/Play-Karina-Halle-ebook
((I'm a huge animal lover, I love this))

Ooh Lachlan, I loved you and the wonderful cause this story supports! <33

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

IT'S LIVE AMAZON http://amzn.to/1l5Vxuw

5 LACHLAN STARS <3 <3 <3

"I want you"
"I want more of you.And I don't care how I get it."

I loved this story so much!!The story and the characters touched me in so many ways.I felt so connected to the story.I will tell you exactly what I said to Karina while I was reading The Play!I have read so many books of her,almost all and I have cried with Perry and Dex but nothing like this!Lachlan my poor baby...I wish I could hug him,this man stole my heart..he has all of me!!The story is emotional,so intense,passionate,super hot and funny.



Lachlan and Kayla are two passionate characters!I loved Kayla because she is smart,sassy,independent,she knows how to treat a man,funny,sexy and amazing!!She is the girl anyone would like for a friend!Lachlan is mysterious,bossy,sexy,sweet and he isn't like anyone.He doesn't open easily but Kayla has something that make him feel love and happy.



These two are being misunderstood mostly from everyone.But when they are together you see who they really are!I loved their chemistry which is so intense...OMG you can really feel it for the moment they meet!!It's so beautiful and magical.There are also so many super hot moments,and yes I can say this is the hottest book that Karina wrote!!



Overall,I loved the way this story developed.It goes from sad to happy then to hot and then again sad and happy.I loved that Karina brings out of me so many feelings.I don't have to say again how much I love her I think the one who read my reviews knows that she is one of the best for me!!She knows exactly what a reader needs!She is so talented!

Guys if you haven't pre-ordered it yet do it now!!You can't miss this amazing story...Lachlan is so sexy and intense you will fell in love with him!And also don't forget with the pre-order $1 from each one, will be donated to animal charities!

b>ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Rachel L · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

“Even if you lose love, it’s never really gone. It stays in you forever. The risks of love are always worth it.”



Going into a Karina Halle book I always know one thing for sure, that she’s going to rip me apart with feels. This book lived up to that reputation and had me crying during the prologue!!

Kayla has put a ban on sex in her life, not longer satisfied with random hookups and looking for something more from a relationship. When she meets Lachlan, adopted cousin of Linden and Bram from the previous books, she’s ready to throw her new placed ban up in the air for the hot rugby star. Lachlan on the other hand doesn’t seem at all interested in Kayla. When Bram asks Kayla to do an article on his charity, it requires Kayla to interview Lachlan for the cause.

The first time Kayla interviews Lachlan, it’s a disaster. Luckily he agrees to another one. This time, Kayla and Lachlan get on better, leading to an understanding of each other never felt by them before. From there the two get to know each other, but they have a deadline as Lachlan leaves for his home in Scotland in a matter of weeks.

“Tell me what you want, love,” I tell her, my voice rough with lust. “Tell me what you want and I’ll give you what I have.”



Kayla and Lachlan are probably one of my favorite book couples by Halle. Both characters are misunderstood by their friends and loved ones, and only seen for what they are on the surface. Both long for a deeper connection with another person, but there are several factors holding them back. Lachlan has trauma stemming from his childhood abandonment and time in foster care. Kayla is scared she will never find the love of her life, the kind of love her parents had.

“Kayla…you’re my girl. You’re my beautiful world. And I’m whatever you want me to be, just as long as you know that I have never, ever felt this way about someone in my entire life.” He lowers his face, eyes focused intently on my lips. “I’m losing myself in you. Every day. And it’s the most wonderful, terrifying feeling in the world.

While this book was indeed longer than most of the books this author writes, I couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know more and more about these characters with every page I read. I swear these two people were so perfect for each other despite their differences. Lachlan, oh Lachlan. Talk about a man to swoon over. His compassion for animals alone is enough to give me a lady boner, but on top of that I thought he was an amazing man. His everyday struggle to overcome his demons is admirable, and in return he only wanted to be accepted for who he was by those he loved.

If you are looking for a beautiful emotional read, this book is for you. I highly recommend this book!

“I can see all your cracks and your darkness and your flaws and I fall in love with it all. And I hope you can fall in love with everything that I am, all that lurks in my dark, all that shines in my light. I want you to love every little piece of me, because it all belongs to you.”

[~♡AB♡~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

★★★★ 4.5 Stars ★★★★

Now LIVE!
Amazon US | Amazon UK



A gorgeous and touching book that will leave you feeling hopeful that love can conquer all. Emotionally charged and super sexy, this book will transport you to the streets of San Francisco and the alleys of Edinburgh, and make you fall in love with a feisty heroine, a broody hero and a bunch of misunderstood lovable dogs. From the prologue I was hooked and I am still thinking about the characters days later.

Lachlan McGregor is cousin to the McGregor brothers, Linden and Bram who, if you have read them, we first met in The Pact & The Offer. Together they are the Scottish trifecta of hot guys.

On a break from the rugby season and away from his hometown of Edinburgh, Lachlan McGregor is visiting San Francisco to help his cousin Bram with his mission to create affordable homes for those that are less affluent and in need. He is a brooding Scottish rugby player with troubled past and a huge heart hiding deep in the depths of his hardened exterior.



Kayla Moore is a feisty and bubbly character, but seeing her two best friends settle down with the sexy Scottish brothers Bram & Linden, she is feeling the loneliness creep in, and her life as a party girl and man eater are starting to feel empty.

Kayla who is usually life and soul of the party is drawn to this quiet and mysterious beast of a man, and when the opportunity arises to interview him for a chance to further her career, she decides to kill two birds with one stone. Knowing he is only in the US for a few more weeks, she vows not to get too close to him.

"Lovestruck? Please.
This is me you're talking about.
Kayla Moore. Maneater extraordinaire."

Lachlan is hiding a huge amount of turmoil within, but he sees something in Kayla that he can relate to, she seems as misunderstood as he is, and he can't help but gravitate towards her.



This book is told in two parts, Part 1 is set in San Francisco and focuses on
them getting to know each other and finding a solace in just being together. The sexual tension and foreplay lead to plenty of sexy times. Playing rugby in the rain will never sound miserable again, I loved the fun times they had together.

Part 2 takes us to Edinburgh and Lachlan's life as an International rugby player and owner of a dog rescue centre. The struggles of being in a new relationship with someone you don't really know all that well start to take their toll. Kayla who is half way across the world from home, is finding out just how broken Lachlan is, and she needs to decide whether to help rescue his lost soul, or leave him behind and head back to America.



An emotional and steamy novel, sometimes difficult to read in places because Lachlan is not perfect and I could relate to a lot of his woes, it was very sad and emotional. It was however, balanced out with hope, and an intensity that will keep you reading.

Another great job from Karina Halle.

The Play is a standalone contemporary romance, told in dual POV.

ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



Pre-Order
Amazon: http://www.bit.ly/ThePlay-Kindle
iTunes: http://bit.ly/ThePlay-iBooks
Nook: http://bit.ly/ThePlay-NOOK
Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebo...

$1 from every pre-order of this book will be donated to Animal Charities Worldwide

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

***5 "Beautiful" Stars***

Stunning, Heartbreaking, Moving, and Captivating.



WOW! This is easily one of the best contemporary romances I've read of 2015. From the beginning, I was HOOKED. It was so emotionally charged, I was already bawling my eyes out from the prologue. Honestly, this is one of the most intense books I've ever read. You will NOT regret it.

“If you can’t find a man to share your heart with, well…share your vagina with him instead.”

Kayla was always happy with her man-eating and one night stands. But then she watches her two best friends Steph and Nicola find true love, and settle down, leaving Kayla the odd one out. So she decides to take a vow of celibacy, and take a break from men. Then she meets Lachlan McGregor, and is immediately smitten.

“He’s probably the most stunning man I’ve ever laid eyes on, and I immediately want to rub myself all over his face. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.”

Lachlan McGregor is a brooding rugby player from Scotland with a tragic past. Inside, he's always felt a little empty, and misunderstood. He feels that there is something about Kayla that he can relate to. He finds himself thinking about her all the time, and can't help but be drawn to her.

After several encounters, it is obvious they both have chemistry. Sizzling, hot chemistry. Then comes the time when they both can't hold back.

“I need to fuck her, messy, hot, and wild. I want her body, her touch, her light to replace all the darkness that creeps into my dreams.”

These two together were AMAZING. They have such a beautiful relationship. Together, everything just feels "right". Not to mention the sex. Oh my, the sex is so hot and intense, I'm melting just from thinking about it. There is a LOT of steamy sex in this book!

“Don’t stop,” I hiss as he plunges back inside, deeper this time, coaxing another unrestrained noise out of my throat. “Don’t you ever stop fucking me.”
“Jesus,” he swears, gravelly and low. “I’ll bury myself in you, if you let me.”

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were great, especially Kayla. She was absolutely hilarious, and I loved how she was so stubborn with Lachlan. They really did make a great pair.

I'm not going to spoil the rest of the book. But this book was my worst ugly cry of 2015. You will have to read it to find out why. The best part of the book is the second half. You might find the first bit really slow, but you HAVE to read till the end. Honestly, it's worth it!!

I will definitely be reading more of Karina Halle in the future!

[Kim Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

6 STARS
This is going on my 2015 Best Reads list!

I just bawled my bloody eyes out! GAWD! I'm a terrible mess now. Easily the best contemporary romance KH has delivered since Love in English ... in fact, I think this may have even topped it (hard call since I loved them both so fucking much).



I was expecting sexy. I was expecting playful. I was not expecting gut wrenching, earth shattering and painfully tortured. I was not expecting to be so blown away. I should have been prepared. I really should know to always expect the unexpected from Karina's books. I should just fucking KNOW.
This book was absolute magic.



Lesson learned. I am still recuperating ...
It may take me some time to fully come to my senses & realize that this review isn’t much of a review at all ... But, if you’ve never read a Karina Halle book … THIS IS THE ONE! don’t waste another moment … just get on it!


Order: http://amzn.to/1KEDIZv


*Thank you to the author for an advance copy of this book.

[Sharon ∞❥ is an emotional book junkie ❥∞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Self worth...that's what this story is all about. Lachlan's been searching for it his whole life, he even finds it for abandon dogs...he sees it in Kayla but he just can't give it to himself. He needs someone to help him and that someone might just be Kayla.

If you've been reading The Pact and The Offer then you know who Kayla (Steph and Nicola's friend) is and you know that Lachlan is Linden and Bram's cousin. Lachlan lives in Scotland and has come to San Francisco to help out Bram with his housing project.

What there was no way of knowing was that this book would in no way follow the pattern of the first two books!

First off, Kayla has sworn off sex for a while even though she is desperately tempted by Lachlan. And Lachlan doesn't need any more complications, his life has been screwed up enough already but life keeps throwing these two together.

And I haven't even mentioned the f'ed up prologue...ugh, you just knew all that was going to come out...and come out it does. I just have to give K.H. kudos for the excellent job she did in portraying Lachlan being possessed by his demons. The cruelty and the absolute anger she was able to depict was so chilling and absolutely sickening. My heart went out to Kayla. It was priceless having both their POVs.



But the chemistry between these two is utterly amazing. They both have plenty of experience and that is put to very good use and they literally wear each other out!

So what do we have so far...we know that Lachlan is a ticking time bomb, the sex is off the charts, Lachlan lives in Scotland and Kayla doesn't...well, that's a handful already but it's only the tip of the iceberg!

As I said, Lachlan has a thing for abandoned dogs, he even has a rescue shelter back home but he's always prepared no matter where he is. I loved that Kayla was willing to jump right in there and help out wherever she could. (*Special note: the author is donating one dollar from each sale for animal charities and she raises a lot of awareness through this story.)

There was also some drama with Kayla's work and her family and while you get hints of what's coming, I was just not prepared for it...it was heart breaking! However, I just loved what Lachlan did...I was hoping it would happen and thankfully it did. Still, Kayla is sooo stubborn...as she should be!

I really enjoyed having the characters of the prior books have such a big part in this book. They are all very close and it makes the story much more interesting. Plus it's always nice to get updates on them. That being said, I don't really think you should read this book without reading the first two, you would miss out on so many connections.

And the ending was fantastic! I was hoping for it even if it is a little cliché as well as the epilogue but it was oh-so-good!

Next up? Well, I was hoping for a book for Lachlan's brother, Brigs, and I just heard he is getting one, The Lie, unknown release date. Talk about a tortured hero...I can't wait!



Favorite quote:

♥ "Here. I love you here, your big, beautiful heart."

[Dilek VT · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE PLAY is Book 3 in the series, “The McGregor Brothers”. I read Book 1 but it was frustrating for me so I didn’t like it that much. I skipped Book 2, as it was not appealing to me. These are all stand-alone books but I guess reading them in order may help to get to know the characters better.

Well, although I skipped Book 2, I had no problems understanding who’s who in Book 3.

Lachlan , the hero, is the cousin of the heroes of Book 1 & 2.
Kayla is the friend of the heroines in Book 1 & 2.





Lachlan is a brooding Scottish rugby player with tattoos and a beard. He is too hot for his own good.

Kayla is a femme-fatale, who is very attractive with her exotic looks due to her Japanese mother.





Kayla is called “a man-eater" by her own friends. She is the queen of casual hook-ups.

Lachlan has had a very difficult past. He is an ex-addict, who still lapses and struggles with his demons.

Now, both want more than a casual hook-up in their lives - they need something meaningful.



Their story is full of lust, passion, fun, sadness, guilt, forgiveness, hope and love.

It is nearly 450 pages but it flows. The writing is in dual point of view and it makes you FEEL!

Well, it is not possible not to feel in a "Karina Halle book", if you ask me. And she is one of those rare writers who writes intimate scenes in the hottest and most passionate way. When these two come together, they burn the pages.





The first half of the book is better because in the second half, there is illness, death (of a parent), the problems his addiction causes etc.

What I mean is that the second half of the book is a bit more depressing compared to the hot and fun mood of the first half.

Still, it provides us with a very good HEA in the end.



A character like Kayla is surely not a common type of heroine that we read in romance books. She is horny 7/24 and she is always in need of sex. For example, when he asks, “How about coffee?”, she answers by saying, “It would be good” but what she thinks in her mind is, “Dick would be better.” At the beginning I had a hard time to connect to the character of Kayla because all she thought was to get in Lachlan’s pants (her words, not mine) and I thought she was a bit immature and shallow.

Lachlan is not my ideal type of hero, either. I love broken and damaged men but I don’t like addicts that much. They are always a ticking bomb.

But soon, Ms. Halle does her magic and I find myself liking both Kayla and Lachlan and wishing for their HEA.

***********************************************

The LUST and LOVE Kayla and Lachlan have for each other, their NEED for each other is so palpable that you think you are the one feeling it. The way they look at each other, the way they kiss or the way they fear of losing each other are all written so very well that it all feels real.

In short, the writing is so good that I became invested in their unique story and it was a good reading experience.

***********************************************

What adds even more beauty to the book is the integration of the plot of dogs that need saving. The junkyard dogs. The stray dogs. That was a lovely touch!



***********************************************

As for safety, there is no cheating or drama related to OM/OW. There is a separation of 3 months.

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My rating:

I give the book 4 stars, not 5 because of the following reasons:

1. It took a long time for me to like Kayla. Her sex-crazed immature character annoyed me at first. There is nothing wrong about a woman who loves sex but she sounded as if she was obsessed with it at the beginning of the book.

But then eventually, I loved her, especially when I saw how much she loved Lachlan.

2. Lachlan was easier to love at first until his addiction made him act like a jerk. It was then, he lost some points. I was pissed at him.

Still, I can say that I loved him, too. I loved the way he loved Kayla, his need for her... and his intensity.

Other than those issues, it was a really good book in my opinion. I can say that it is worth reading.

QUOTES from the book:



“Hi,” I say, rather breathlessly. “You look nice.” And by nice, I mean so handsome I want to cry.

***

“You’re leaving on Sunday,” I tell him. “That’s less than a week.”
“So?” he says. “What does that have to do with anything?”
I cock my head. “It means…well, what can happen between now and then?”
“I can fuck your brains out,” he says gruffly. “That’s what can happen.”

***

"You only get one life. Well, two lives. The second one starts the moment you realize you only have one.”

***

No wonder he was so intense, so broken, so misunderstood. The man had gone through hell and back, and even though he rose like a phoenix from the ashes to become the man he is, that smoke still clings to him. I can smell it.


I’m so incredibly lucky he asked me. He asked me . As if he can sense me, he looks over his shoulder. Drinks me in. His eyes crinkle—light, soulful—and he grins at me. It’s so beautiful. He grins at me because now he knows, he knows , I’m his.
“I’m here,” I tell him as I slowly walk toward him, my voice barely audible.
He nods. “You’re here.”

***

She cries out, her eyes widening, but I can’t help it. There’s no time to do this gently. There is a fire raging inside me and she’s the only way out of the flames.





I have been obliterated. He’s completely ruined me, and I’m already dying to have it again and again and again. “Holy fuck,” I cry against him, my head buried into his sweaty neck, holding his hard body against me, as if I would sink into further oblivion if I didn’t. “Oh god. Lachlan.”

He gives me one of his monosyllabic grunts and pulls his head back, grinning down at me. The lust hasn’t left his eyes, and I realize he hasn’t come yet. “That was the appetizer, love,” he murmurs, brushing his lips against my gasping mouth. “I’ll go all night.”

***

“Do you really want to know?” I glance at her to see her nodding, her eyes focused out the window and into the darkness.
“Yes,” she says. “I want to know everything about you. Especially the events that made you who you are.”
“And who am I?” I ask softly, heart pleading. “Who am I to you?”
She turns her face to me, skin lit up by the pale dashboard lights. “You’re Lachlan McGregor. And you’re mine.”

***

It’s fucked up. It’s all over the place. I’m all over the place. Why can’t anything be simple? Why can’t I just love him and why can’t he love me and why can’t love be the only thing to juggle? Instead the past is holding onto him and our relationship has an expiry date.

I love a broken, damaged man who might run the both of us into the ground. I have no idea how this is going to end well. Later that night I crawl into bed and I’m doing everything to keep my hardened heart from opening again.

I want to pull away, I want to shut him out. I’ve talked myself out of everything that is open and beautiful. But then he rolls over and grabs my hand and he holds onto it so tight. So tight. His eyes are pinched shut and when he speaks it’s barely audible.
“Kayla,” he says hoarsely. “I love you.”
I burst into tears.
He falls back asleep.

***

“Kayla…you’re my girl. You’re my beautiful world. And I’m whatever you want me to be, just as long as you know that I have never, ever, felt this way about someone in my entire life.” He lowers his face, eyes focused intently on my lips. “I’m losing myself in you. Every day. And it’s the most wonderful, terrifying feeling in the world. If I’m being honest here, you’re starting to drive me a bit mad in my affections for you. I don’t know if I will ever be of right mind again.”

*** Recommended whenever you want to read a "hot book"!!!


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[MELISSA *Mel Reader* · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 "Follow Your Heart" Stars!
(ARC provided by author)

-Chances happen all the time. You just need to take them.

-"You never know what love will bring you."



Kayla Moore is a 30 yr. old beautiful single woman living in San Francisco, California. After a failed engagement to a man that wasn't what she wanted, all Kayla really has is her family & friends. Tired of disappointment, she's sworn off men. She's sick & tired of dating so she decided to vow no sex or men for a while. She's taking an extended break, & wonders if there is anyone out there meant for her.



Her break is going great until her best friend's boyfriends bring their hot Scottish cousin out with them one evening. His name is Lachlan McGregor. He's a rugby player from Edinburgh & the most stunning man she's ever seen. He's this gorgeous, mouthwatering mountain of a man covered in tattoos, who make all her girl parts scream YESSSSSS!!! ;))



Lachlan is in town for only a couple more weeks while he takes a break due to an injury & also helps his cousin with a project. Kayla works at a magazine & ends up assisting them with their project which puts her around Lachlan quite a bit. She quickly realizes he's quiet & kind of different. He doesn't easily let anyone get close to him.



As Kayla & Lachlan are together more, they begin to act on their attraction. Kayla learns more about his past & why he's so intense, guarded, & misunderstood. She also learns he rescues dogs & has a huge giving heart. There's much more to Lachlan than just what's on the surface. As it nears the time for Lachlan to go back to Scotland, they grow closer & begin to fall for one another.



-The way she looks at me...it's not just that she wants me, because I know she does. It's that...I feel she might see me, too. Beneath the layers.

-She moves something deep inside of me, something I don't think I can ever move back.

-"You fucking ruin me, love."



This was another fabulous book by Karina Halle! She always writes beautiful stories full of heart that I can't get enough of, & takes us to gorgeous places that make me feel like I'm experiencing it all. Lachlan McGregor was absolutely delicious & I loved having the McGregor trifecta all together! YUM!!! Please please please give us a book for Brigs next!

[Alex is The Romance Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moving.
Touching.
Beautiful.
Poignant.
Sexy.
Emotional.
Heartbreaking.
Uplifting.

Karina Halle has written one of the most unforgettable story of two damaged souls who find love and solace in each other and the journey they go on to be together. A story that makes you believe in the magic of true love.

The story begins with the most achingly sad prologue as we see Lachlan as a 5 year old. It blew me away…..the level of emotions I felt were almost too much for me….the hurt, the pain, the betrayal, the abandonment….it actually brought tears to my eyes.

Kayla Moore, loving daughter and sister, caring and loyal friend, funny, sexy, stuck in a job she doesn’t like and tired of being alone and of mindless one night sex encounters. Seeing her two best friend’s happiness with the men they love, it’s something she wants for herself. To find someone to love and who loves her back. But what if there’s no right man for her?

Lachlan McGregor, is a professional Scottish rugby player, sexy, secretive, remote, with a sad and painful past, which he never talks about and a love for caring and helping strays and others in need. His life has been a hard and harsh road and in solitude. Trying to survive the demons inside.

These two lonely people meet when Lachlan flies to San Francisco to help his cousin Bram with his charity organization. They recognized something in each other that they have never had with any other person.

When Kayla is asked by Bram to write a story of Lachlan’s philanthropic work to gain exposure to Bram’s plan to help disadvantaged people find affordable accommodation, she suddenly feels that she’s found the right man for her at last. Things begin to happen with each other and unable to stop the strong connection and attraction to each other. They agree to spend time with each other until Lachlan returns to Scotland, without making any commitments.

On the spur of the moment, Lachlan asks Kayla to go back to Scotland with him and spend more time together. She must decide what her going means to her, leaving her sick mother and family and friends behind. Will it be worth risking everything for this man? This man that she has fallen irrevocably in love with.

What happens when she has to come back home without him?

Lachlan’s fear that he will never be over his past and how it can destroy everything he feels and has with Kayla is just one of the things he’s struggles with. He needs to believe that he’s more than what he was in his past.

“who you are and who you think you should be are two very different things.”

Beginning in the quaint streets of San Francisco,, their relationship slowly builds up as it moves to the romantic, charming, historic and atmospheric city of Edinburgh, where it culminates to them finding a deep and emotional love for each other.

I loved this couple. The intensity of their feelings for each other and how unconditionally their love was – incredibly moving…

I was astounded by Kayla’s heart. She’s fun, feisty, beautiful inside and outside and her capacity for her love and feelings for Lachlan was a thing of beauty. She can see deep into Lachlan’s heart…..she never gives up on him even during those dark moments of his…..she wants him to see and believe that he’s a person worth loving and caring for….

How they find a way to each other…..to finding love and peace together…..

The love and care she has for her mother and brothers was incredible and the hospital scenes with the family having to make a decision about their mother had me in absolute tears.

Their sexual chemistry was incredible….sensual, sexy, hot and sweet…

There were so many parts in this story that grabbed me…..when Lachlan and Kayla go to the charity gala with his dog, wearing a bowtie, was a true magical moment.

This was a beautifully written story that will stay with me for a very long time and one that I will read and read over and over again.

When I started reading this book, I wasn’t aware that its part of a trilogy…however it can be read as a standalone. I will be reading the first two next.

If there is one book that anyone should read this year, it’s THE PLAY. Don’t miss out!!!

One, of the many beautiful quotes in this book:

[Natasha is a Book Junkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED:

“Why the hell did I have to meet this beast, this superman, who blows my mind in the bedroom, mows down rugby players for a living, rescues helpless animals, looks like a f*cking god, and happens to cook, just before he has to leave?”

Well, I guess it took a taciturn beast of a man with superpowers in the bedroom to prove me wrong—Karina Halle can truly take any storyline and turn it into gold. With impeccable timing and meticulous character development, she spun a scenario that at first glance might appear ‘fluffy’ and predictable, into a compelling exploration of all that it takes to form a functional relationship between two people who believe themselves not to be ‘built’ to be in one. This is a story of recovery, of hope, of battling our darkest demons for the promise of a brighter tomorrow, and of love overcoming all. I adored this book, every sizzling, moving, startling, devastating part of it, and as I found myself glued to its pages, I was once more reminded of how utterly addicted I can become to this author’s brand of storytelling.

“…my bed feels empty. Like it’s missing someone. And not someone who leaves in the middle of the night or the next morning. Someone who will stay.”

Kayla Moore is a young woman in her early thirties who has watched all her closest friends find and fight for true love, and while envious of their happiness, she does not believe herself capable of such romantic notions of love and happily-ever-afters. Unsettled and unfulfilled in her professional life, constantly feeling like she is just spinning her wheels but never actually getting anywhere, and tired of meaningless hook-ups that leave her emotionally empty and disappointed in herself, Kayla aches for change in all aspects of her life, but is too afraid to take the first step. In a desperate attempt to regain some semblance of control over her life, however, she swears off men, determined to focus her energy on her family and friends instead…until a rugged Scotsman walks into her life and immediately makes her forget her own self-imposed vow of celibacy.

“I can’t stop staring… even though I manage to glide my fingers over my mouth to make sure I’m not actually drooling. He’s probably the most stunning man I’ve ever laid eyes on, and I immediately want to rub myself all over his face. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.”

Lachlan McGregor has met and bedded his share of beautiful women in his life, but he has learnt that most of them are not interested in him beyond his ‘famous rugby player’ persona, only drawn to the glamour of celebrity and indifferent to the complex person beneath the surface. He is quiet, reserved, extremely protective of his privacy, and only passionate about two things in his life—playing rugby and rescuing stray dogs from the streets.

“My past belongs to me and no one else.”

When Lachlan meets flirtatious Kayla, he dismisses her as just another beautiful but shallow woman who is only interested in getting in the sack with him, but the more he gets to know her, the more he realises that behind her ballsy, no-filter bravado hides a sensitive, loving, intriguing woman who undoes him emotionally and sets his body on fire. So, even with Lachlan’s impending return home to Scotland in just a few weeks’ time, their decide to spend those weeks in each other’s arms, discovering one another’s bodies and getting to know each other better, all the while pretending their days together are not numbered.

“You’re leaving on Sunday,” I tell him. “That’s less than a week.”
“So?” he says. “What does that have to do with anything?”
I cock my head. “It means…well, what can happen between now and then?”
“I can f*ck your brains out,” he says gruffly. “That’s what can happen.”

And while they are getting their fill of one another, every chance they get…and against any surface they can find, they inevitably start falling for each other—deeply, unexpectedly, desperately—realising more and more each day that saying goodbye in the end would be an impossible feat.

“Everything she offers up is so beautiful, but it’s never enough. I don’t just want to touch her and be with her, I want to fuse with her. I want to sink inside her so deeply that she’ll feel bereft without me there.”

Nothing quite prepares them, however, for the gravity of the demons from Lachlan’s past as they resurface suddenly and start affecting every aspect of their budding relationship. And the more he spirals down into his demons’ embrace, the more he pushes away the only woman he’s ever truly loved.

“I love a broken, damaged man who might run the both of us into the ground.”

A sensitively written and genuinely compelling tale of a love set against all odds, of a man’s relentless battle with his past and of a woman’s fierce faith in him. I was moved by the way Ms Halle approached such delicate topics, carefully and responsibly, never sugar-coating any aspects of them, and presenting them to us in all their terrifying reality. I was stunned by the intensity of the connection between these characters, the magnitude of everything they felt for each other, and the selflessness with which they loved one another. And my skin burned from all the scorching chemistry between them, the sex scenes alone in this book deserving of a standing ovation…or ten. This book was such a welcome addition to the series, bravely delving into heavier, angstier themes lacking in the previous instalments, and showcasing this author’s extraordinary ability to tackle them effortlessly. A great read, satisfying cover to cover.

“I’m so in love with you,” he whispers, the roughness of his cheek pressed against mine. “So in love. There is no bottom. I just keep falling.”

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[Jasmine · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 STARS! ★★★☆

I'm probably going to be in the minority here for not loving this book as much as everyone did :( As much as I loved a tortured hero and a Scotsman no less, it was the plotline that didn't keep me invested in the story enough. I really loved the first half of the book but by the time I got to the second half, it sort of fell flat for me. The story was dragged out a little too long for my liking & thought that some scenes could have been condensed together without losing out anything important.

What I loved most about the book is the support for the cause of the dogs and I think the story executed that portion wonderfully. Lachlan's dedication to the cause really sets out an example and the fact that $1 from all purchases of The Play will be donated to animal charities is commendable.

The Play was definitely the heavier, emotional side of this series thus far. So if you're expecting something different from the first two, this would fit the bill.

[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I’m so in love with you,” he whispers ... “So in love. There is no bottom. I just keep falling.”

OMG, I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! 5 huge stars

Full of emotion, humour, drama, angst, an EPIC romance and some of the steamiest sex ever (phew!), Karina Halle has hit it out of the park with this one! So many feels, I was crying after reading just the prologue! It’s the story of Lachlan and Kayla, two damaged souls who find something incredible together, and who fight like hell to keep it. I absolutely loved it!

This book follows on from The Pact and The Offer - Lachlan is the cousin of Linden and Bram McGregor, “the Scottish trifecta of hot guys”, and Kayla is good friends with Stephanie and Nicola - so both of them have been introduced in earlier books, but this one can easily be read as a standalone.

Kayla is a feisty bombshell who has watched her two best friends find their perfect matches, fall in love and settle down. She’s a bit of a man-eating party girl, and has always been ok with that…

I swear, I’m not afraid of love. There’s just no one out there for me and I’ve made peace with that. If you can’t find a man to share your heart with, well…share your vagina with him instead.

…but she’s getting tired of the game so has taken a vow of celibacy, taking a break from men altogether. And then Lachlan McGregor walks into her life.

Lachlan is a professional Rugby player from Edinburgh. He is visiting San Francisco from Scotland to help Bram do some fundraising for his charity. Tall, dark and broody, the man is a giant pillar of intensity and gorgeousness, and Kayla is immediately smitten.

With Kayla’s vow to stay away from men, Lachlan’s reclusive nature and only a few short weeks before Lachlan has to return to Scotland, these two seem doomed from the start. It doesn’t help that their first few encounters are less than encouraging, but there is a spark there, and as they spend time together, the chemistry between them starts to really sizzle. With every glance, every touch, and every conversation between them, the sense of anticipation builds brilliantly, until they can’t hold back any more.

“I’m going to kiss you,” he says.
Oh Jesus, is this happening? I’m not going to survive this.
“Please tell me you’re not joking,” I whisper.

There was nothing I could do.
She’s a riptide.
I’m just a man without oars.

HOLY HELL, these two together are a force of nature! They see something in each other that neither of them realised they wanted or needed, and as they start to open up to each other, they fall for each other in a big way. And then then is the sex – OMFG, the sex is intense, a little bit dirty and crazy hot, and there’s a whole lot of it! But more than that, it’s emotional and so, so passionate, and is a real reflection on their feelings for each other. At times it’s almost a spiritual experience for them, and I’m sure I sat there with a dazed look in my eyes as I read some of those scenes (while fanning myself).

“Tell me what you want, love,” I tell her, my voice rough with lust. “Tell me what you want and I’ll give you what I have.”

“Don’t stop,” I hiss as he plunges back inside, deeper this time, coaxing another unrestrained noise out of my throat. “Don’t you ever stop fucking me.”
“Jesus,” he swears, gravelly and low. “I’ll bury myself in you, if you let me.”

Their hook up becomes so much more than either of them ever expected, and when the time comes for Lachlan to leave, they find that neither of them are prepared to let each other go.

“I want you,” he says with a gruff tenderness. “I want more of you. And I don’t care how I get it.”
I search his eyes, greener now than they have ever been. They’re bright and burning and I know he wants me. I can feel it in my bones, and the thrill is like a million bombs going off at once. How did this even happen? I’m absolutely spellbound by him.
I clear my throat, but even so my words are quiet. “You have me.”

That’s all I’m going to say about the story, because you need to just dive in and experience it all. But I need to say that Lachlan McGregor has TOTALLY stolen my heart! He is different from the types of heroes Karina usually writes – he’s more serious, quiet and brooding with some very dark demons. He has overcome so much to get where he is, and he has the biggest heart, but he is still haunted by his past. Kayla brings light into his life, and I love that we slowly get to see the real him as he opens up to her. He is so damaged, and my heart hurt as the full extent of his brokenness is revealed.

“Who am I?” I ask softly, heart pleading. “Who am I to you?”
She turns to face me… “You’re Lachlan McGregor. And you’re mine.”

Kayla blew me away in this story. Described as a “crazy, flirtatious, ballsy, ambitious, yet sensitive girl”, she is so incredibly strong. She has her own issues that she needs to deal with, and I love that she doesn’t lose herself to everything that is happening between her and Lachlan. But at the same time, she makes it clear that she’s prepared to fight for her man and I love the way she is there for him.

“I will never, ever run from you, Lachlan. I’ll only run toward you. Always.”

This is such a beautiful relationship. In one way it’s so incredibly easy – they fall for each other so naturally, it feels so ‘right’. But there are challenges in their way and external dramas which they need to deal with, and it’s an incredibly emotional read. Yes, there is angst and heartache, but it’s not stupid or overdone. It’s very real, it’s very heart-felt and it’s dealt with brilliantly! I could understand where the characters were coming from, I was never annoyed with them, I just wanted to hug them both and make it all better. And through it all, their love story absolutely melted my heart.

“You’re my beautiful world. And I’m whatever you want me to be, just as long as you know that I have never, ever felt this way about someone in my entire life” … “I’m losing myself in you. Every day. And it’s the most wonderful, terrifying feeling in the world.”

Gah, what a swoonfest!

This book is longer than the average and while I confess I’m not usually a fan of longer books, I loved that in this one there is plenty of time for the story to fully develop. The romance builds slowly and realistically and there’s a great mix of relationship development and character development, which I loved, because it lets you to get fully invested into the story, and at no point did anything feel rushed or glossed over. I was completely sucked into Lachlan and Kayla’s story, and I felt everything everything so strongly.

“I can see all your cracks and your darkness and your flaws and I fall in love with it all. And I hope you can fall in love with everything that I am, all that lurks in my dark, all that shines in my light. I want you to love every little piece of me, because it all belongs to you.”

It’s not all dark and heavy though. Lachlan and Kayla have a lot of fun together, and their special moments always made me smile. There’s also a whole lot of crass and inappropriate humour which had me laughing out loud, and of course lots of time with the characters from the previous books, and the introduction of a couple of newbies that are primed for a book of their own (Brigs needs his own book!).

I loved this book! I adored this book from start to finish, and I know it’s going to be one that stays with me for a long time.

5 stars.


An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[• Jodi Bibliophile • · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I finish a book I normally jump right into a review so I can get all my feelings out but the second I finished this book was a little different.

I cried.

I cried from nothing but pure HAPPINESS.

I cried because all the emotions I felt just came flooding back and I just couldn’t handle it.

So instead of wiring down my feeling I just let them flow down my face and held my kindle to my chest and laid down in my bed holding on to it for dear life.

Karina wrote my all-time favourite book.

She created my all-time favourite love story and gave me my book husband.

That is why that woman is so very special to me. Now you create something like that for someone as passionate as me then other books you write will always come second to this book and that’s the same as all other books I read, NOTHING will ever compare to Love, in English and no book boyfriend will compare to my Mateo….

Then I read The Play.

I read The Pact and loved it. I just adore Karina’s style of writing. It was so much fun to read. Then The Offer came out and I one-clicked it on release day but never got around to reading it. I’m such a fussy reader that I have to be in the mood to read certain books.

When I saw some of my girls had read the 3rd book in the series, The Play and they mentioned how much they loved it and that it was their favourite one out of the series and some even said out of any of her books – That alone got me intrigued.

I had to read this book. I didn’t care what I had on or what other books I had on my list before then, it had to be this book. I just had a feeling about it.

I never thought in my wildest dreams that I could read a book that came even close to how I felt when I read my beloved Love, in English; My heart.

The word ‘Love’ isn’t even a strong enough word to describe how I felt about this book. I literally couldn’t put it down and that is a huge deal for me as I’ve not been able to finish so many books this year but this one just completely owned my whole life.

Lachlan, what can I say about Lachlan without wanting to burst into tears.

That man holds my heart in his beautiful broken hands.

The bloke completely BROKE ME! I just wanted to hug him and fuck him at the same time!

I mean a huge fucking Scottish Rugby player with tattoos!!

He is so FUCKING HOT!! Fuck me when he walked into a room my knickers came off!

I just loved every fucking INCH of him and his penis!

My new book boyfriend for fucking LIFE!

Kayla, oh Kayla! I FUCKING LOVE YOU!

She was such a fucking perv and a girl of my own heart! She is my new fictional BFF!

I just loved these two together! Fuck me they loved each other so fucking much, my heart just broke for them both.

My poor Lachlan has issues and my little Kayla always wanted to save him…but sometimes that just isn’t enough.

I cried so hard and parts that I felt like I couldn’t breathe.

I never wanted this beautiful story to end. I got to the point where I just wanted to read a chapter a day just so I could pro-long it.

I finished this book last week and I still wake up every morning since thinking about it. Whenever I see Tom Hardy I think about my Lachlan.

Every emotion you could ever feel you will FEEL when reading this book and you may even feel some new ones.

Karina totally outdone herself in this book and I will never forget it for as long as I live.

I can still feel it now.

I will always and forever class this book as one of the greatest loves of my life <3

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



“Tell me what you want, love,” I tell her, my voice rough with lust. “Tell me what you want and I’ll give you what I have.”

Stunning. Captivating. Breathtakingly Beautiful. Emotionally Consuming. These are a few words that comes to mind after reading THE PLAY by Karina Halle. There aren't enough words to describe how much I LOVE this book. Seriously, I loved loved loved L.O.V.E.D this book!!!! Hands down this book will make my list of favorite reads of 2015. I have read almost every book written from this author and I will continue to support her because Karina Halle has always been an author, who never fails to deliver the best literary creation. And she definitely did just that with THE PLAY. Karina delivered a story full of passion, heart, emotions, and raw characters. As a reader, you are immediately spellbound and consumed with her gorgeous prose. You can get easily lost with her words and storyline as she paints a vivid beautiful literary creation that can capture your heart and touch your soul.

“He's probably the most stunning man I've ever laid eyes on, and I immediately want to rub myself all over his face. If that's not love, I don't know what is.”



Just reading the prologue alone, I was already consumed with emotions and I knew immediately this book will hold me hostage. Yes, THE PLAY is considered a romance story but I think what made it stand out was how the characters were written. Lachlan McGregor and Kayla Moore were much more than two strangers falling in love. It was like two kindred spirits finally finding the person to complete the missing piece in their hearts, soul, and mind. I love getting lost in a book and being able to connect and feel for the characters. There is something the way, Ms. Halle held me hostage as I felt every fiber of mixed emotions, hurt, loneliness, pain, lost, and love coursing through Lachlan and Kayla.

“Kayla…you’re my girl. You’re my beautiful world. And I’m whatever you want me to be, just as long as you know that I have never, ever felt this way about someone in my entire life.” He lowers his face, eyes focused intently on my lips. “I’m losing myself in you. Every day. And it’s the most wonderful, terrifying feeling in the world.”



I honestly don't want to say much to spoil the storyline but I will just say this: Karina Halle DELIVERED. If you want a book brimming with passion, heat, sexiness, steam, and dirty talks, then this book has that and so much more. And if you want a story that is filled with raw emotions, tangible and palpable connections that can tug those heartstrings and hold you hostage then this is the book for you. The writing is flawless. The storyline is phenomenal. And lastly, this book is everything what I craved in a romance book. Thank you Karina Halle for once again gifting your fans and readers with another McGregor boy to love.





Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Karina Halle

[Hanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Play is my favorite Karina Halle novel so far! I loved every minute I spent reading this book. It was unique, beautiful, emotional, intense and hot. It was a long book, but I never wanted to skim. Kayla and Lachlan are incredible characters. I fell hopelessly in love with both of them. Kayla is sweet, passionate, fun, genuine and loving. Lachlan is closed off, talented, rich, damaged and caring. He loves dogs and he’s so sweet and caring with them. Lachlan never expected to fall in love, but Kayla is a special woman and the one. I love them as a couple! They belong together. I’m really loving the McGregor men and I can’t wait to know another McGregor better.

[Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 "Hot brooding Scot" Stars!




The Play is the first book I've read in the McGregors series, and although it's quite long, I seriously enjoyed it all the same.


Kayla lives in San Fransisco with an anything but exciting job in a local publication. Her dream is to be a writer but obviously that's not in the cards. Friends with Stephanie and Nicola from McGregor books 1 and 2, she's introduced to Lachlan McGregor, a cousin of their husbands visiting from Scotland. He's here to help with the promotion of a low income housing unit Bram is funding. Kayla's sights are on Lachlan for an interview for a potential article opportunity she going to write...and also a quick roll in the hay.


Lachlan is a tough nut to crack for Kayla. As sexually out there as Kayla is, Lachlan isn't one for many words. Grunts are about all she gets from him so she decides it's easier to get the interview from where he's seemingly most comfortable...a muddy rugby field. She got her interview...and a whole lot more.





I'll be honest and say right off the bat, neither of these characters really did it for me. Having not read the first two books, I wasn't all that familiar with Kayla as a person and she came off as crass and a bit sleezy forward for my tastes. I'm all over badass heroines but her constantly throwing out the f-bombs and pushiness in her sexual interest with a quiet, rather withdrawn and (initially) uninterested Lachlan crossed me as more trashy than badass. BUT, over time she grew on me. And the grunting, closed-up Lachlan opened up and what a great love story this ended up being.
Two people who on the surface appear completely unsuited yet are perfectly suited for each other...





Nothing I love more than a complicated and tortured hero. So once we got the dialogue, I fell hook, line and sinker for this once-orphaned tattooed Scot. And it appears the foul-mouthed, sexually forward Kayla was just what the doctor ordered. Lachlan didn't stand a chance. He just needed a woman who wouldn't judge him for his demons and would stick around through the good...and the ugly side of him.


The second half of this book is what I look for in all my reads- angsty and emotional. It took me a while to be invested in their love story but once I did, Ms. Halle captured my heart and I only wanted that happily ever after both these two deserved. It was a long fought road but ended perfectly.

[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all remember 30-year-old Kayla from The Pact & The Offer, right?
Now that her besties have been paired with those two hot scottish guys, Kayla should find herself someone too. But she doesn't.
She's on a ... wait for it.... on a penis diet. ☺
No sex, no flirting, no dating. The right guy for her doesn't exist anyway.
Plus she's busy with her job... a job she doesn't really like. Working at a magazine, in the ads department. She always wanted to be a writer when she was younger :/

ENTER:

Lachlan McGregor.
Adopted cousin to Bram & Linden.
A guy with a sad and hard past.
He's a professional rugby player and came to San Francisco to heal from an injury and to help Bram with his apartment complex thing - Bram bought this building to give affordable living space to people in need.
But they need way more help.
That's where Kayla comes into the picture. She's supposed to write an article about the whole thing to get people interested in helping.
Time to interview the quiet rugby star.
If only Lachlan wouldn't be the hottest man she has ever laid eyes on!
Not good for her new abstinence thingy. ☺

Plus he'll leave again soon ...
And then there is his past - a past he doesn't want to talk about.

WHAT WiLL HAPPEN TO KAYLA & LACHLAN???
WiLL THERE BE A CHANCE FOR A HEA???
WiLL THERE BE A CLiFFHANGER???



NOPE . . .
I'm not telling you ☺


_______________________________





OY!!!

I had to stop reading after the Prologue, to go watch some mindless TV...
Poor Lachlan as a five-year-old made me cry so bad, my whole shirt was wet!



I ADORED THiS BOOK!

My finger hurt after only reading 5% - I was highlighting soo many great lines.

I just loved it. And I'm sooo happy that this book was so amazingly long! More Lachlan for us!!!

He's so grrrrr.... sexy, quiet, hot, silent, scottish, built, calm, huge, kilt-wearingly pretty, and his dog-rescue-thing - absolutely adorbs!!!!! ☺



A book that makes me cry in the prologue and is happening in cities that I love, can't be bad!
I loved every single moment of Kayla & Lachlan's story.

You want them to get their HEA so bad, but of course with all their problems - especially Lachlan's past - and him living in another country - and Kayla's sick mom et cetera - you just know it won't be easy to get to that Happy End ...
But it's absolutely beautiful to watch them fight their way towards it.



We have sooo many EROTIC scenes...



...and moving scenes and adorable scenes and funny scenes and doggie scenes (dog - the animal - not the sex position thing - ok - we might have that too!)

He leans forward and kisses me softly on the lips.
"See you soon, love."
Fucking. Swoon.

Lots of Bram and Linden too...

Bram, Linden, and Lachlan McGregor.
The Scottish trifecta of hot guys.

Was there something I didn't like?
Hm, not really ...at least I can't think of something now that I'm writing this.
Some people might say the book was a tiny bit too long, but nope, not for me. I was glad to have so much Lachlan to lust over!!!



Another author would've probably done the 2-book-thingy. I'm so glad Karina didn't - I hate waiting!!!
Another tiny little thing... Even though I LOVED the story, the way the book started, with this amazing prologue....hm...I kinda wanted a bit more of that. I'm not really sure what, I'm not really a fan of going back in time in my books, but a bit here and there wouldn't have hurt. BUT.....

THE PLAY was such an amazingly beautiful and touching erotic romance - you'll soooo want your own Lachlan after reading it!! (Or your own Kayla of course, if you swing that way ☺)

Now I need whatever comes out of Karina's mind next!!!!!!



I would totally love a book about Lachlan's brother and one about Kayla's gay brother - together with her former co-worker ☺


**$1 from all preorders of The Play will be donated to animal charities**

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Play is an adult contemporary romance novel written by author Karina Halle. Although it is not marketed as a series, Ms. Halle has written a string of novels that spin off of each other and all involve some sexy Scottish manly man. The Play involves a romance between a multi-ethnic American woman and a Scottish rugby player. Ms. Halle has included emotional, behavioral, psychological, dependency, family, and cultural components along with a smoking hot romance. It's long, but I remained engaged and looked forward to reading each day. My only notable complaint , which has also been a major complaint of mine in other books from other authors, includes a character continuing a new relationship once he or she realizes it is destructive. Sure the sex may be good and he or she may be the perfect partner sometimes, but you have to remove yourself even when it's a hard decision to make. Yes, the female lead left, but it was forced due to the death of her mother. I firmly believe she wouldn't have left if that circumstance wasn't present. Books are entertaining, but they also model lifestyles and choices for our new adults who may be reading. I see nothing entertaining, sexy, or romantic about toxicity.

If you are a fan of Ms. Halle's Scottish spinoffs: The Offer and The Pact, then consider reading The Play.

My favorite quote:
"There’s no use wasting your days doing something that doesn’t excite you. You only get one life. Well, two lives. The second one starts the moment you realize you only have one.”

Note: The author Karina Halle donated half her preorder profits to various animal charities that work with rescues. I didn't know this little tidbit when I bought the book but now it makes me very happy. I have owned two dogs in my lifetime and they have both been successful rescue adoptions. Adoption is definitely the way to go!

My first sweet boy has since passed but my current cutie-pie is named Charlie. At the time of his adoption, I could never have known just how perfect he would be for my family, but he is! I hope we have improved his life as much as he has ours ♥

[Formerly Known as Spoiler W · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Play is the story about Kayla Moore(who we've met in The Pact and The Offer) and Lachlan McGregor(who we briefly met in The Offer*everytime I say his name it comes out very Sean Connery*) on how they met, on how the spark was there waiting for the friction to ignite into a combustible relationship, on how they spoke words that made you FEEL, on how actions are sometimes louder than words, and on how they fell only to be built up higher.

Hope is a powerful and dangerous word. It can either bring your world to a stand still or make it spin faster than before. When Lachlan hopes, you want it to come to fruition. He's been broken down by hope and yet he stills hopes for the good. Kayla has many obstacles that bring happiness and sorrow to her life. How she deals with it shows that she's a strong character and her strength goes perfectly with Lachlan.

I love sex in my books. The dirtier, the better. With Lachlan and Kayla...SHEE-IT...their sex was on fleek. End of.

I feel like I'm on repeat when I say that Karina Halle knows how to tell a story. Each of her stories are not the same. There is no pattern. She follows no trope. She's but a few handful that can execute words into something bigger. She has a way with words...

My head is throbbing with a sickly ache, my mouth tastes putrid, sour, like I can taste my own heart.

The heat builds deeper, my nerves are a million champagne bottles about to burst.

Favorite lines/moments:

But your eyes are like storm clouds and sunshine, framed by wet ferns, I think dreamily. I am so fucking glad he can't see this bullshit inside my head.

"Come on," I say quietly. "The hay is fine." She purses her lips, thinking it over. I stand at the edge and unzip my cargo pants, bringing my dick out of them, already stiff as a board. Her eyes widen as I knew they would. My girl is a hungry little creature. "I'll be right up," she says.

"Go home," he whispers. "Do what you can. And I'll see you tomorrow." "And what if you don't." He smiles sadly. "Then at least I had hope."



*ARC provided by author*

[☾ Nikki. ✿ SUGARVOGUE. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this! :) great book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Yodamom · Rating 3 out of 5]

First Bravo Ms. Halle on your donation to animal rescue !
I liked it, I didn't like it.
I loved the big strong beast of a man that was willing to get down on hid knees with abused dogs and offer them love and hope. I adored his strength and his hidden weaknesses that slowly undid him. He was broken and it came across very believable and heart wrenching. I liked him, I wanted him to finish strong. I could cheer for him.
Kayla was an interesting character. She was strong, independent and yet not taking that extra move. Why ? I'm not sure it wasn't made clear to me why exactly she was stuck. She made so many bold moves her career choices seemed out of character.
The two of them had one hot steamy sexual adventure, that held nothing back. Their relationship for the first half was exciting and invigorating. The complete love for the dogs was beautiful. The first grabbed me more than the second which had a much darker grittier feeling.
I struggle with this authors style. Her characters are very blunt, curt and extreme in their language and physical behaviors. I am uncomfortable with it. I purchased this because I wanted to support her charity drive and read about a rugby player. It was very sexually driven, very physical, and wasn't afraid to push.This was just not my taste in reading material.

[Janey · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 He's a f**king god and a god I'm f**king stars

Super stellar.


Kayla Moore’s reputation precedes her, and she’s getting tired of the label. She makes the momentous decision to put herself on a self imposed drought, in an attempt to banish the meaningless one night stands she has repeatedly inflicted on herself.

”I, Kayla Moore, am a lonely, lonely girl.”

Lachlan McGregor is in San Francisco catching up with his cousins, Bram and Linden. They both happen to be in joyous relationships with Kayla’s BF’s, Nicola and Stephanie, whose stories we have read previously in this series. But Lachlan is a little more reserved than his cousins, and a lot more tight lipped. And when Kayla first met the brooding mass, her vow of cocklesness seemed like a very bad idea.

What started out as a seemingly predictable story, completely transformed into the tale that just kept on giving. There was an overwhelming intensity from both sides that captured me initially, and then as we got to learn more about the characters, especially the exquisitely tortured Lachlan, I found myself completely absorbed. Not only was I entertained by Kayla’s playfulness and snarky wit, but the depth of compassion I felt for Lachlan as his story unfolded made it a very emotional read.

Lachlan was a multi-faceted hero of epic proportions, and I felt that quite early on. His story turned out to be far more than I anticipated, and that is always a welcome delight.

Kayla was a strong, spirited h, who was unexpectedly bowled over by this man. She jumped in feet first, and that air of risk from both sides helped to lift the story for me.

”Maybe this is just all lust wrapped up in a very sexy, soulful tatted bow.”

The empathy, the exposé, the end…came too quick.

[Sandra Cortez · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 review to come!! That last 30%.... all the feels and smiley faces all wrapped into one. "You're my beautiful world" <3 <3

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no idea how to express what this book did to my heart. It started with a bang of laughter—a literal laugh-out-loud moment that had me all excited for this funny book. And it was a book with many lighthearted, laugh-out-loud moments, but it wasn't just a funny book. It was so, so much more than that.

Look, I'm not usually a crier. I mean, sometimes a tear will escape or I'll have a little sniffle, but it takes a LOT to make me ugly cry. A lot. I don't like feeling like my emotions are being manipulated and so I sort-of turn off when I feel like I'm being led down an emotionally treacherous path. But, God damn, Karina Halle snuck one in on me. And I don't want to scare you off this book because while some of that crying was because my heart was fucking breaking all over the place, some of it was because of the breathtaking beauty of this love story, and how amazingly, beautifully told it was. I would read words and gasp and think "Holy shit—this feels like falling in love. Exactly like it." And then my eyes would leak some more.

So? Where do I begin? How do I even try to capture how big this story was? To say it is a Beauty and the Beast story (which I love) seems to be trying to put it in a box into which it doesn't wholly belong. Lachlan is a beast—he's built like a sequoia tree, tall and broad, bearded and tatted (delicious, and irresistable). He's all male, all heart, and chock full of demons. He's so complex and deeply layered—his demons at constant war with his big, beautiful heart. It was impossible not to love him, but also impossible not to kind of hate him a little bit too. I hurt for him. I ached for him. I wanted to punch him in the nuts and shake some sense into him, and I wanted to fold him in my arms and soothe the pain away—all in equal measures. He was amazing. I fell so completely in love with him; his compassion, his brokenness, his unflinching humanness.

Kayla has been known for being all lighthearted and fun times. Nobody's really scratched beneath the surface with her before. She is deathly afraid of love, of opening her heart to someone and all the consequences that come with that. But she was completely powerless against Lachlan's charms (such as they were). She fell so completely in love with him, like it wasn't even a choice. Like his being in her world was the only way her world was ever going to exist, and her getting on board with her love for him was the only possible outcome. She soothed Lachlan's inner beast and she was strong when he was weak. I love a strong heroine. I love someone I can rally behind—who doesn't create conflict and doesn't lose all sense of herself when the conflict rears its ugly head. Kayla was perfect—her unapologetic humanness and Lachlan's humanness call to each other and in the end, they find their home in each other.

This book is intensely emotional in a way I was not expecting. It is, by turns, breathtakingly beautiful, scorching hot (and I'm not using the term scorching lightly here; the sexiness of this book probably deserves its own paragraph, maybe even its own review), painful, heartbreaking, redemptive and sweet. It's....stunning in its honesty, its intensity, and its beauty. I loved every minute. ~ Shelly, 5 stars