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Players #2
Play Me
1 Chef (equal parts sexy and carefree)
1 Pianist (equal parts uptight and endearing)
1/8 inch of drywall between their apartments
2 opinions on everything
Combine all ingredients, mix vigorously, and be prepared for an explosion of heat.
Pianist Ella Thomas is training for the competition of her life. Finally in an apartment of her own, she can practice from dawn till dusk.
But she didn't bet on the sexy and frustrating neighbor keeping her up all night - even if he does cook like a maestro and kiss like it’s his job.
Jake Matson is living his dream as Head Chef at one of the most popular restaurants in San Francisco. He's easy going, flirtatious and not looking for love. He didn't expect to be completely distracted by the girl next door, whose buttoned-up appearance hides the seductive firecracker underneath.
What happens when opposites attract? As their tension fires up, can they create a new kind of music together or will everything boil over?
1 Pianist (equal parts uptight and endearing)
1/8 inch of drywall between their apartments
2 opinions on everything
Combine all ingredients, mix vigorously, and be prepared for an explosion of heat.
Pianist Ella Thomas is training for the competition of her life. Finally in an apartment of her own, she can practice from dawn till dusk.
But she didn't bet on the sexy and frustrating neighbor keeping her up all night - even if he does cook like a maestro and kiss like it’s his job.
Jake Matson is living his dream as Head Chef at one of the most popular restaurants in San Francisco. He's easy going, flirtatious and not looking for love. He didn't expect to be completely distracted by the girl next door, whose buttoned-up appearance hides the seductive firecracker underneath.
What happens when opposites attract? As their tension fires up, can they create a new kind of music together or will everything boil over?
224 pages, ebook
First published January 27, 2016
1220 people are currently reading
2205 people want to read
About the author
Katie McCoy
20 books816 followersKatie McCoy is a self proclaimed sushi addict, Cardinals baseball fanatic, and lover of all things theatrical. A St.Louis native transplanted to Brooklyn, she acts, sings, and shakes her booty when she isn't writing books about hot men and the girls who love them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 328 reviews
January 16, 2016
After having finished Play Me by Katie McCoy, I realised three things. One, I will never take canned soup for granted again in this lifetime or the next. Two, I wish I had kept up my piano lessons even after having mastered the Twilight theme tune and three, Katie McCoy is the reigning queen of the subtle heart wrench; and by that, I simply mean that she lures you in slowly, garnering your focus to the big things that are right in front of your eyes, it's all smooth, light and the characters are in their own little self contained bubble and it is only when you are a couple of chapters in that you begin to realise that maybe things are not as serene and uncomplicated as they first appear, that there are more important issues dwelling on the peripheral of the story.
Ella, is our significant heroine, a brilliant musician that for the first time in her life is striving towards independence, away from her ex and her equally creative and kooky family and towards a peace of mind where she can overcome her stage performance anxieties. When she comes across her exhausted and unkempt but hella sexy neighbour, they both create a lot of friction and negativity in one another. But it's through each others learned understanding, passions, music, food and friendship, that these two begin a beautiful and romantic journey that manages to encompass every emotion known to man. Ella's fun, flirty and down right naughty nature is brought to the surface as Jake aids her in the realisation that she is a desirable and sexual woman. It is only after having really immersed myself in Ella's character, that I began to comprehend that her previous relationship was an emotionally abusive one, something that Ella herself didn't fully grasp until Jake in is infinite wisdom, charm and kind heartedness demonstrates how a hero should behave. Ella and Jake are stunning together, complimenting the good in each other, pulling one another on their negative traits and journeying on one sensual and explosive ride together.
'"Are you wearing garters?" I managed to ask, even though I could already see that the answer was yes.
To my shock, Ella blushed and nodded.
"Fuck," I moaned.
Who was this woman who wore black shapeless dresses, blushed at each sexual insinuation, and wore red lace and garters? She was a mess of contradictions I was more than eager to explore. As long as I could explore the rest of her as well.'
If you're looking for a super sweet but deep romance then this is the book for you. It has a good balance of drama and comedy, as well as interesting and engaging side characters (I really NEED Dakota to have her own story). Another great read from Katie. My only negative for the whole book was the beginning, it started out a little too slow for me but after that point it was a lovely romantic tale.
Ella, is our significant heroine, a brilliant musician that for the first time in her life is striving towards independence, away from her ex and her equally creative and kooky family and towards a peace of mind where she can overcome her stage performance anxieties. When she comes across her exhausted and unkempt but hella sexy neighbour, they both create a lot of friction and negativity in one another. But it's through each others learned understanding, passions, music, food and friendship, that these two begin a beautiful and romantic journey that manages to encompass every emotion known to man. Ella's fun, flirty and down right naughty nature is brought to the surface as Jake aids her in the realisation that she is a desirable and sexual woman. It is only after having really immersed myself in Ella's character, that I began to comprehend that her previous relationship was an emotionally abusive one, something that Ella herself didn't fully grasp until Jake in is infinite wisdom, charm and kind heartedness demonstrates how a hero should behave. Ella and Jake are stunning together, complimenting the good in each other, pulling one another on their negative traits and journeying on one sensual and explosive ride together.
'"Are you wearing garters?" I managed to ask, even though I could already see that the answer was yes.
To my shock, Ella blushed and nodded.
"Fuck," I moaned.
Who was this woman who wore black shapeless dresses, blushed at each sexual insinuation, and wore red lace and garters? She was a mess of contradictions I was more than eager to explore. As long as I could explore the rest of her as well.'
If you're looking for a super sweet but deep romance then this is the book for you. It has a good balance of drama and comedy, as well as interesting and engaging side characters (I really NEED Dakota to have her own story). Another great read from Katie. My only negative for the whole book was the beginning, it started out a little too slow for me but after that point it was a lovely romantic tale.
January 24, 2016
Read my full review of the book at seriesousbookreviews.com! Spoiler Free!
**I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own and not influenced by my source.**
This book was everything I thought it was going to be: fun, lots of sexual tension and great characters.
I loved Jake and Ella's story. I thought they complimented each other so well which made it a blast to read. Jake is completely swoon-worthy for the fact that he can cook but also for the way he treats Ella. I liked that he encouraged her to be who she always could be and I liked that she didn't become dependent upon him. She really grows into her own person and Jake is simply a catalyst that gets her to reach that point.
The plotline is perfect. It has just enough drama and romance to keep the story moving at a fast but enjoyable pace. I honestly had a hard time putting this one down once I started it.
If anyone has read Wallbanger, I liken my experience of reading this to that. It has that fun vibe to it but can be serious when it needs to be. It also has that touch of realism to it that the Cocktail series has which makes things even better.
Overall, I was really impressed and enjoyed this novel. Definitely looking forward to more of Katie McCoy's work in the future!
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: http://wp.me/p3txrs-1fs
**I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own and not influenced by my source.**
This book was everything I thought it was going to be: fun, lots of sexual tension and great characters.
I loved Jake and Ella's story. I thought they complimented each other so well which made it a blast to read. Jake is completely swoon-worthy for the fact that he can cook but also for the way he treats Ella. I liked that he encouraged her to be who she always could be and I liked that she didn't become dependent upon him. She really grows into her own person and Jake is simply a catalyst that gets her to reach that point.
The plotline is perfect. It has just enough drama and romance to keep the story moving at a fast but enjoyable pace. I honestly had a hard time putting this one down once I started it.
If anyone has read Wallbanger, I liken my experience of reading this to that. It has that fun vibe to it but can be serious when it needs to be. It also has that touch of realism to it that the Cocktail series has which makes things even better.
Overall, I was really impressed and enjoyed this novel. Definitely looking forward to more of Katie McCoy's work in the future!
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: http://wp.me/p3txrs-1fs
January 28, 2016
This book was just what I needed.
4.5 Brownies and Black Lingerie Stars!
Guys. If Jake were a real person, I would question some life choices. Seriously. I'm not proud of that statement, but Katie McCoy should be.
This book is funny and sexy and amazing. I loved it. I didn't get bored. I didn't skim. I just enjoyed it. It was a quick cute, swoony read.
My only struggle was with how quick the book ended, but if that's my only struggle then we're in good shape.
Take a chance on this book. No, go get this book. It's the perfect pick me up after a long week.
Brava, Katie. Brava.
*arc in exchange for an honest opinion*
4.5 Brownies and Black Lingerie Stars!
Guys. If Jake were a real person, I would question some life choices. Seriously. I'm not proud of that statement, but Katie McCoy should be.
This book is funny and sexy and amazing. I loved it. I didn't get bored. I didn't skim. I just enjoyed it. It was a quick cute, swoony read.
My only struggle was with how quick the book ended, but if that's my only struggle then we're in good shape.
Take a chance on this book. No, go get this book. It's the perfect pick me up after a long week.
Brava, Katie. Brava.
*arc in exchange for an honest opinion*
January 27, 2016
Katie has the recipe for success with Play Me—a dash of humor, a cup full of drama and a whole lotta delicious romance with one tattooed, mouthwatering chef who loves to make brownies. Yes, please!
Ella lacks color in her world. She is focused on being a professional pianist and has followed her jerk ex-boyfriend/teacher’s instructions on how to live for far too long when the scrumptious chef/neighbor, Jake Matson shows up and brings color to her world.
I laughed, I drooled, I wanted to punch a certain character, I laughed some more, and at the end I had a huge smile plastered to my face.
Disclaimer: Be sure to have a plate of gooey brownies on hand while reading. You will need it!
5 Perfectly Plated Stars for Play Me.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of The Read Report. **
Ella lacks color in her world. She is focused on being a professional pianist and has followed her jerk ex-boyfriend/teacher’s instructions on how to live for far too long when the scrumptious chef/neighbor, Jake Matson shows up and brings color to her world.
I laughed, I drooled, I wanted to punch a certain character, I laughed some more, and at the end I had a huge smile plastered to my face.
Disclaimer: Be sure to have a plate of gooey brownies on hand while reading. You will need it!
5 Perfectly Plated Stars for Play Me.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of The Read Report. **
February 2, 2016
4.5 Stars
As a classical pianist trying to compete in a competition and catch a break, Ella Thomas, 25, is focused on her music…or at least she’s supposed to be; it’s what her music teacher slash ex tells her. And not only does he remind her, he’s kind of tried to brainwash it into her, bringing her confidence down a few notes.
“Stupid fucking Mark.”
Anyways, since music is key, Ella isn’t too worried about having bare kitchen cupboards in her new apartment. Having hot tattooed 27 year old neighbor, chef Jake Matson, bare….well that might be a problem. A problem of distraction.
“And in that moment, I couldn’t decide what I wanted to do more: feed her or fuck her.”
While initially irritated with her, Jake who sports ratty tees that show off his abs is attracted and intrigued:
“Who was this woman who wore black shapeless dresses, blushed at each sexual insinuation, and wore red lace and garters? She was a mess of contradictions I was more than eager to explore.”
And lucky for Ella , Jake is a total good guy. A real sweetie, he’s adorable. (If only you could go to a restaurant and order up him!) And helpful…
“‘There are many ways my mouth can be useful….Hop under the covers and I’ll show you.’”
It seems Ella is in a bit of a slump, having difficulty taping into her inner passion, both at the piano and in the bedroom. But Jake might just be her new muse for reaching a crescendo, and the piano bench a place for making more than one kind of music. If only both of their fledgling but demanding careers don’t get in the way.
Told via Jake and Ella’s alternating first person POV, this is a sweet and sexy, delightfully low angst, romance. Play Me is like chicken soup for the romantic soul! It’s lighthearted and fun and will definitely keep you smiling….and salivating, both over that V on the cover as well as the images of Jake’s gooey chocolate brownies.
“…I’d never think about brownies the same way again.”
And you probably won’t either after reading this. ;-)
While Play Me is a standalone, the supporting character of Nina (loved her advice and encouragement) and Dakota definitely have potential as heroines of their own stories.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review/Releases Jan 27th
As a classical pianist trying to compete in a competition and catch a break, Ella Thomas, 25, is focused on her music…or at least she’s supposed to be; it’s what her music teacher slash ex tells her. And not only does he remind her, he’s kind of tried to brainwash it into her, bringing her confidence down a few notes.
“Stupid fucking Mark.”
Anyways, since music is key, Ella isn’t too worried about having bare kitchen cupboards in her new apartment. Having hot tattooed 27 year old neighbor, chef Jake Matson, bare….well that might be a problem. A problem of distraction.
“And in that moment, I couldn’t decide what I wanted to do more: feed her or fuck her.”
While initially irritated with her, Jake who sports ratty tees that show off his abs is attracted and intrigued:
“Who was this woman who wore black shapeless dresses, blushed at each sexual insinuation, and wore red lace and garters? She was a mess of contradictions I was more than eager to explore.”
And lucky for Ella , Jake is a total good guy. A real sweetie, he’s adorable. (If only you could go to a restaurant and order up him!) And helpful…
“‘There are many ways my mouth can be useful….Hop under the covers and I’ll show you.’”
It seems Ella is in a bit of a slump, having difficulty taping into her inner passion, both at the piano and in the bedroom. But Jake might just be her new muse for reaching a crescendo, and the piano bench a place for making more than one kind of music. If only both of their fledgling but demanding careers don’t get in the way.
Told via Jake and Ella’s alternating first person POV, this is a sweet and sexy, delightfully low angst, romance. Play Me is like chicken soup for the romantic soul! It’s lighthearted and fun and will definitely keep you smiling….and salivating, both over that V on the cover as well as the images of Jake’s gooey chocolate brownies.
“…I’d never think about brownies the same way again.”
And you probably won’t either after reading this. ;-)
While Play Me is a standalone, the supporting character of Nina (loved her advice and encouragement) and Dakota definitely have potential as heroines of their own stories.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review/Releases Jan 27th
January 24, 2016
Title:Play Me
Author: Katie McCoy
Publisher: NAME OF PUBLISHER OR SELF-PUBLISHED
Release Date: January 27, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Heat Level: # 5 flames out of 5
Rating: # 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
“She was a mess of contradictions I was more than eager to explore.”
What do you get when you put a sexy chef and classical pianists? Brownies!
Pianist Ella Thomas is a beautiful amazing woman, but has been hiding her whole life. She grew up in a family of free spirited Jazz musicians, and hates being in the spot light. But she has a competition with will either make or break her career. Unfortunately, she needs the help of her ex-boyfriend and music teacher to win. Mark is ten years older, and is a complete arse. He is not supportive, critical, and just an idiot.
Jake is a twenty-seven year old chef, who is confident and hot as hell. He is the head chef at a local restraint, but aspiring to own his own one day. But what a guy to do when the woman you want only likes canned chicken soup?
Jake and Ella are so hot together. The chemistry these two have would burn you. But they are more than that; they are the support they have always needed. Jake shows Ella that she has what it takes to win, and Ella shows Jake to go back to the basics.
ARC provided by Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Heather from Alpha Book Club
Please provide me the following:
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
AMAZON ASIN:
SCORES
PLOT: 5
CHEMISTRY: 5
PACING: 5
ENDING: 5
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5
Author: Katie McCoy
Publisher: NAME OF PUBLISHER OR SELF-PUBLISHED
Release Date: January 27, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Heat Level: # 5 flames out of 5
Rating: # 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
“She was a mess of contradictions I was more than eager to explore.”
What do you get when you put a sexy chef and classical pianists? Brownies!
Pianist Ella Thomas is a beautiful amazing woman, but has been hiding her whole life. She grew up in a family of free spirited Jazz musicians, and hates being in the spot light. But she has a competition with will either make or break her career. Unfortunately, she needs the help of her ex-boyfriend and music teacher to win. Mark is ten years older, and is a complete arse. He is not supportive, critical, and just an idiot.
Jake is a twenty-seven year old chef, who is confident and hot as hell. He is the head chef at a local restraint, but aspiring to own his own one day. But what a guy to do when the woman you want only likes canned chicken soup?
Jake and Ella are so hot together. The chemistry these two have would burn you. But they are more than that; they are the support they have always needed. Jake shows Ella that she has what it takes to win, and Ella shows Jake to go back to the basics.
ARC provided by Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Heather from Alpha Book Club
Please provide me the following:
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
AMAZON ASIN:
SCORES
PLOT: 5
CHEMISTRY: 5
PACING: 5
ENDING: 5
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5
February 3, 2016
This book was funny and angst free for the most part. I liked that the hero was a chef and the heroine was a pianist. There were also some great steamy moments. What keeps it from being a 5 star for me is all the comments thought by the H about his busy past with women. He was big into ONS, but then we also learn he dated women too. Some of them met his best friend, he had purchased lingerie for some. He was an expert on removing garters and bras. He cooked for women to seduce them often- he said that was his #1 seduction plan. So when he planned to cook his way into the h's life I wasn't feeling warm and fuzzy. I wish authors would stop with these details. They don't make me think better of the H and they actually distract and take away from what is happening between H and h. This book will be great for those not bothered by past details and those that don't want what H and h have together to seem different and out of the norm for the H. I did believe he loved Ella- I just don't think anything they did during the story wasn't already done with him and OW. Also- it ended at 87% and it was an abrupt ending.
July 27, 2017
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a really cute and light read. It has very little angst, and is a perfect one to lighten you up if you have just read a particularly angsty book. It was SO refreshing to have a h and H that both recognized their mistakes and worked to fix them! I had some issues with the pacing and ending, and I wouldn't say that we get in really deep with the characterizations -- but it was enjoyable.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ella and Jake's story. Ella finally has moved out of her parents house and into an apartment of her own. She is trying to win a big pianist competition, and has to practice like crazy. Jake has recently been awarded head chef at the restaurant he works at and has to put in odd hours, so when he is awoken in the morning by incessant piano playing he is upset. They don't get off on the right foot right away, but their mutual attraction takes over and they eventually start a relationship. They have some sexy times, some sweet moments, some big changes in both of their lives, and they eventually get their HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Ella and Jake's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. My biggest complaint is the abrupt ending (@ 88% on my kindle app). Otherwise I thought it flowed well, and I didn't skim at any point.
Instalove: No. I wouldn't say it was instalove -- instalust for sure, but feelings of love took longer to develop.
H rating: 4 stars. Jake. He was tired of ONS, knew what he wanted, and went after Ella. I liked how he tried to actually woo her (which is a nice change from most of our current H's) and owned/made up for his mistakes when he made them.
h rating: 4 stars. Ella. I liked her transformation into a confident woman, and her inner dialogue was funny at times.
Sadness level: Really Low. No tissues needed, and even their big conflict was minimal.
Heat level: Moderate. They have some good sexy times.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes, mentions of condoms being used.
OW/OM drama: Minimal
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This was my big complaint about the book. . My kindle app said it was at only 88% too! I really wanted more time with them as an official couple, and a jump ahead epilogue would've done wonders IMO. I would call it a HFN ending.
How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
Overall Opinion: This was a really cute and light read. It has very little angst, and is a perfect one to lighten you up if you have just read a particularly angsty book. It was SO refreshing to have a h and H that both recognized their mistakes and worked to fix them! I had some issues with the pacing and ending, and I wouldn't say that we get in really deep with the characterizations -- but it was enjoyable.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ella and Jake's story. Ella finally has moved out of her parents house and into an apartment of her own. She is trying to win a big pianist competition, and has to practice like crazy. Jake has recently been awarded head chef at the restaurant he works at and has to put in odd hours, so when he is awoken in the morning by incessant piano playing he is upset. They don't get off on the right foot right away, but their mutual attraction takes over and they eventually start a relationship. They have some sexy times, some sweet moments, some big changes in both of their lives, and they eventually get their HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Ella and Jake's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. My biggest complaint is the abrupt ending (@ 88% on my kindle app). Otherwise I thought it flowed well, and I didn't skim at any point.
Instalove: No. I wouldn't say it was instalove -- instalust for sure, but feelings of love took longer to develop.
H rating: 4 stars. Jake. He was tired of ONS, knew what he wanted, and went after Ella. I liked how he tried to actually woo her (which is a nice change from most of our current H's) and owned/made up for his mistakes when he made them.
h rating: 4 stars. Ella. I liked her transformation into a confident woman, and her inner dialogue was funny at times.
Sadness level: Really Low. No tissues needed, and even their big conflict was minimal.
Heat level: Moderate. They have some good sexy times.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes, mentions of condoms being used.
OW/OM drama: Minimal
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This was my big complaint about the book. . My kindle app said it was at only 88% too! I really wanted more time with them as an official couple, and a jump ahead epilogue would've done wonders IMO. I would call it a HFN ending.
How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
January 28, 2016
This was a super sweet read!
I loved Jake, he was a sweet and sexy chef covered in tats...yummy! I was worried at first that I wouldn't like Ella, for a short bit at the beginning she came across a bit prissy and cold, but that changed quickly and I ended up liking her.
The plot flowed nicely and there were some laugh out loud moments (the veggie pun discussion was HILARIOUS) I am not sure I would go so far as to say this was a "slow burn" but you don't get any sexy times until slightly over halfway through the book. It's very low angst, with only one incident near the end that wraps up fairly quickly, and yes, I shed a tear or two! *lol* The secondary characters where interesting, and amusing at times. I am hoping that Dakota will get her own book sometime soon!
My only negative with this book was I really wanted an epilogue. I wanted to see them married with babies and where they were at in their careers. It felt like it ended rather abruptly after Like I said though, maybe Dakota is going to get a book and we will see more of this couple in that book?? Fingers crossed in any case!
Overall I really enjoyed this one, it's sweet, it's low angst, no OW drama...perfect!
I loved Jake, he was a sweet and sexy chef covered in tats...yummy! I was worried at first that I wouldn't like Ella, for a short bit at the beginning she came across a bit prissy and cold, but that changed quickly and I ended up liking her.
The plot flowed nicely and there were some laugh out loud moments (the veggie pun discussion was HILARIOUS) I am not sure I would go so far as to say this was a "slow burn" but you don't get any sexy times until slightly over halfway through the book. It's very low angst, with only one incident near the end that wraps up fairly quickly, and yes, I shed a tear or two! *lol* The secondary characters where interesting, and amusing at times. I am hoping that Dakota will get her own book sometime soon!
My only negative with this book was I really wanted an epilogue. I wanted to see them married with babies and where they were at in their careers. It felt like it ended rather abruptly after Like I said though, maybe Dakota is going to get a book and we will see more of this couple in that book?? Fingers crossed in any case!
Overall I really enjoyed this one, it's sweet, it's low angst, no OW drama...perfect!
December 30, 2016
I quit around the 60% mark
Boring Detail
No connection to characters
Boring Detail
No connection to characters
maybe-need-more-info-check-safety
February 3, 2016self note: heroine still works with her ex that she lived with before(she has no feelings for him anymore) .but I don't like it and also the hero is jealous of it(which he has every right too). hero past is mentioned a little .like what he likes what he did before(i don't like that either makes me think things he does with heroine isn't to special because he done it all). but after talking with some gr friends I'm hearing it's not too much of an issue. so I decided to put this back on my maybe shelf:)
February 3, 2016
Dual POVs. There was no substance. Too much inner dialogue about useless information that could have been said in 2 paragraphs instead of 2 pages. The heroine talking about her libido and all the other explanations...it is too hard to like the heroine or get into the story. (loc 92) Sometimes less is more.
December 2, 2023
-=- Original Rating: 5 stars -=-
-=- Re-read: 5 stars for the nostalgia-=-
I don't think I'll ever be able to describe how nostalgic I felt re-reading this book again.
I vividly remember reading this at school and on the plane hiding my phone from anyone who got too close 😭. Having only stuck to tame chick-lit/historical romance and fantasy books at the time, this was one of the first books that I read that had actual *gasp* smut in it 💀😭💀😭.
I was never the same and look where I am now 💀☝️.
Anyways, for that reason, I feel like anything lower than a 5 feels wrong, because this book will forever be one of my nostalgic comfort reads. If I was unbiased it would probably be a solid 3.5/4 😭.
-=-
ANYWAYS, this is such a cute book, with relatable characters, some great side characters, and some super fun scenes.
To sum it up, the vibes were:
※ Enemies to lovers
※ Lives in the same apartment building
※ Comfort care (SHE CARES FOR HIM WHEN HE'S SICK)
※Underestimated fmc
※ They're each other's cheerleaders
※ Chef x Pianist
※ Baking fun 😏
I loved seeing Ella develop as a character, and just truly find herself with Jake- they were so supportive of each other and I love that so much. It was also equally as nice to see Jake find love, and grow too, because he was an absolute player 😭 but a sweet one at that.
One thing that I loved about this book, and these MCs in particular, was their ability to acknowledge when they were wrong, and still be there for each other when it mattered the most. Although the conflict in this book was pretty avoidable- seeing them work through it was so endearing because you could tell how much they cared for each other.
Although it was a product of miscommunication it was very low drama.
-=-
All in all, this was a super nostalgic read for me, that had some cheesy banter, fun vibes, and super cute scenes. The ending was pretty abrupt, but for Katie McCoy, who had me in a chokehold back in the day, I'll let it slide.
-=- Re-read: 5 stars for the nostalgia-=-
* 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。° 。 •
"And this time when we kissed, I heard music."
* 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。° 。 • ˚
I don't think I'll ever be able to describe how nostalgic I felt re-reading this book again.
I vividly remember reading this at school and on the plane hiding my phone from anyone who got too close 😭. Having only stuck to tame chick-lit/historical romance and fantasy books at the time, this was one of the first books that I read that had actual *gasp* smut in it 💀😭💀😭.
I was never the same and look where I am now 💀☝️.
Anyways, for that reason, I feel like anything lower than a 5 feels wrong, because this book will forever be one of my nostalgic comfort reads.
-=-
ANYWAYS, this is such a cute book, with relatable characters, some great side characters, and some super fun scenes.
To sum it up, the vibes were:
※ Enemies to lovers
※ Lives in the same apartment building
※ Comfort care (SHE CARES FOR HIM WHEN HE'S SICK)
※Underestimated fmc
※ They're each other's cheerleaders
※ Chef x Pianist
※ Baking fun 😏
I loved seeing Ella develop as a character, and just truly find herself with Jake- they were so supportive of each other and I love that so much. It was also equally as nice to see Jake find love, and grow too, because he was an absolute player 😭 but a sweet one at that.
One thing that I loved about this book, and these MCs in particular, was their ability to acknowledge when they were wrong, and still be there for each other when it mattered the most. Although the conflict in this book was pretty avoidable- seeing them work through it was so endearing because you could tell how much they cared for each other.
Although it was a product of miscommunication it was very low drama.
-=-
All in all, this was a super nostalgic read for me, that had some cheesy banter, fun vibes, and super cute scenes. The ending was pretty abrupt, but for Katie McCoy, who had me in a chokehold back in the day, I'll let it slide.
May 15, 2017
3.75 -totally enjoyed this one- Stars
This was cute, entertaining and super low on the "dumb angst for angst sake" scale. I must also give kudos for the hot smut I got from it. It wasn't kinky or anything extraordinary that I haven't already read before. But for some reason; the simplicity and descriptions felt much hotter than some other more dirtier descriptions that I have previously read.
I woulda/shoulda/coulda rated this a solid 4 stars, but I had to shave a minor 0.25 stars for my lack of epic HEA. Yes, we get an OK HFN, but dammit, I'm greedy and need my extended HEA's to tell me that they are married with babies and amazing lives!!
Told in dual 1st person POV and standalone story. Recommended to those who love safety and sweetness with some good smut. I'll definitely be checking out more from this author!
This was cute, entertaining and super low on the "dumb angst for angst sake" scale. I must also give kudos for the hot smut I got from it. It wasn't kinky or anything extraordinary that I haven't already read before. But for some reason; the simplicity and descriptions felt much hotter than some other more dirtier descriptions that I have previously read.
I woulda/shoulda/coulda rated this a solid 4 stars, but I had to shave a minor 0.25 stars for my lack of epic HEA. Yes, we get an OK HFN, but dammit, I'm greedy and need my extended HEA's to tell me that they are married with babies and amazing lives!!
Told in dual 1st person POV and standalone story. Recommended to those who love safety and sweetness with some good smut. I'll definitely be checking out more from this author!
January 17, 2021
Free on Amazon!
Ayer, nada en mi kindle parecía interesante (y eso que hay cientos de libros, porque tengo el kindle desde el 2013, y por cada libro que efectivamente leo, agrego 5). Aburrida, decidí elegir algo que hubiese agregado hace tiempo, y hacer el esfuerzo por terminarlo.
La historia me entretuvo desde el primer capítulo. Se trata de una chica, Ella, que es pianista profesional y se muda a un edificio, por primera vez sola. Al principio, Ella no me cayó muy bien, en buena medida porque me pareció irritante, demasiado insegura y manipulable, y por último, me recordó demasiado a mi propia vecina (que es una profesora de piano, que viste de negro invierno y verano, a quien nunca he visto con polera manga corta y sin gorro, y a quien le gusta tocar con la puerta abierta a las 10 de la noche, para que todos nos deleitemos con lo mal que toca... En otras palabras, odio a mi vecina). Sin embargo, es un personaje que crece mucho a lo largo de la historia, en buena medida gracias al nuevo hombre en su vida (a la mujer empedrada que hay en mí no le gusta mucho eso), así que terminó por caerme bien.
Jake, por el otro lado, es un joven chef que está dirigiendo su propia cocina por primera vez. Es ambicioso y un poco obsesivo con su trabajo, pero se nota que tiene un buen corazón. La primera vez que ve a Ella es lust at first sight, lo cual no logra ser morigerado a pesar de que él la considera la persona más irritante que ha conocido (estoy de acuerdo con él).
En general, es una historia sencilla, con poco drama, no demasiado extensa, perfecta para leer en la piscina. Lo más probable es que me olvide de la trama y sus personajes en unos meses, sino antes, pero sirvió su propósito: me entretuvo.
Ayer, nada en mi kindle parecía interesante (y eso que hay cientos de libros, porque tengo el kindle desde el 2013, y por cada libro que efectivamente leo, agrego 5). Aburrida, decidí elegir algo que hubiese agregado hace tiempo, y hacer el esfuerzo por terminarlo.
La historia me entretuvo desde el primer capítulo. Se trata de una chica, Ella, que es pianista profesional y se muda a un edificio, por primera vez sola. Al principio, Ella no me cayó muy bien, en buena medida porque me pareció irritante, demasiado insegura y manipulable, y por último, me recordó demasiado a mi propia vecina (que es una profesora de piano, que viste de negro invierno y verano, a quien nunca he visto con polera manga corta y sin gorro, y a quien le gusta tocar con la puerta abierta a las 10 de la noche, para que todos nos deleitemos con lo mal que toca... En otras palabras, odio a mi vecina). Sin embargo, es un personaje que crece mucho a lo largo de la historia, en buena medida gracias al nuevo hombre en su vida (a la mujer empedrada que hay en mí no le gusta mucho eso), así que terminó por caerme bien.
Jake, por el otro lado, es un joven chef que está dirigiendo su propia cocina por primera vez. Es ambicioso y un poco obsesivo con su trabajo, pero se nota que tiene un buen corazón. La primera vez que ve a Ella es lust at first sight, lo cual no logra ser morigerado a pesar de que él la considera la persona más irritante que ha conocido (estoy de acuerdo con él).
En general, es una historia sencilla, con poco drama, no demasiado extensa, perfecta para leer en la piscina. Lo más probable es que me olvide de la trama y sus personajes en unos meses, sino antes, pero sirvió su propósito: me entretuvo.
February 14, 2016
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed Katie's first book Game On, so I jumped at the chance to read her new book. And when I saw that cover....WOW.
Ella is a professional pianist. She has just moved out of her teacher/ex boyfriend's apartment and is living on her own for for the first time in her life. She is preparing for a very important competition and needs to focus. She feels that living on her own will help with that. Jake is the head chef at a successful local restaurant. He lives upstairs from Ella and tries to play the role of disgruntled neighbor when her piano playing wakes him up. But one look at Ella and Jake is quite taken with her.
The two of them get off to a rough start, but a batch of brownies changes everything! After Ella tells him that she doesn't really like food and he tastes are very plain and ordinary, Jake pretty much makes it his mission to change that. Jake is able to convince Ella to go on "one date" with him and it's a great date. Of course one date turns into two and then three and before they know it, they are dating.
I just loved Ella. As someone who loves classical music and sings in an amateur choir that often sings Mozart, Haydn, or Schubert I appreciated Ella's commitment to a genre that most people easily dismiss. ESPECIALLY since her family were all jazz musicians. There is a moment in the beginning of the book where Ella is explaining to Jake why she loves to play classical music and I think fell a little in love with her just like Jake did.
Jake is good people. He became Ella's support system when she felt that no one in her life was there for her. He never once doubted her skills as a pianist and came through for her in the most adorable way when she thought things were over between them.
I really liked this book. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down and I finished it in record time. There were plenty of lighthearted moment that made me laugh and it made me crave brownies, which I have year to make. (Trust me, it will make sense once you read it.) Katie has become one of those must read authors for me and I look forward to reading her future books.
I thoroughly enjoyed Katie's first book Game On, so I jumped at the chance to read her new book. And when I saw that cover....WOW.
Ella is a professional pianist. She has just moved out of her teacher/ex boyfriend's apartment and is living on her own for for the first time in her life. She is preparing for a very important competition and needs to focus. She feels that living on her own will help with that. Jake is the head chef at a successful local restaurant. He lives upstairs from Ella and tries to play the role of disgruntled neighbor when her piano playing wakes him up. But one look at Ella and Jake is quite taken with her.
The two of them get off to a rough start, but a batch of brownies changes everything! After Ella tells him that she doesn't really like food and he tastes are very plain and ordinary, Jake pretty much makes it his mission to change that. Jake is able to convince Ella to go on "one date" with him and it's a great date. Of course one date turns into two and then three and before they know it, they are dating.
I just loved Ella. As someone who loves classical music and sings in an amateur choir that often sings Mozart, Haydn, or Schubert I appreciated Ella's commitment to a genre that most people easily dismiss. ESPECIALLY since her family were all jazz musicians. There is a moment in the beginning of the book where Ella is explaining to Jake why she loves to play classical music and I think fell a little in love with her just like Jake did.
“Most people don’t understand how rich and interesting classical music is,” I told him.I mean....**SWOON**
He raised an eyebrow. “Oh yeah?” he asked, sounding way too inviting.
Usually I would just end the conversation there, accepting that most people would never understand what was so special about classical music, but I heard my thoughts tumble out of my mouth in a long, passionate rant.
“Maybe it’s not as cool or exciting as pop music or rock and roll or even jazz, but it has an incredible history and remains just as vibrant and affecting as it did hundreds of years ago. You can find classical music in the roots of every single form of music that exists today, so really, if you like any kind of music, you like classical music, you just haven’t bothered to listen to it without all the bells and whistles that we like to add to our music today. In fact, classical music is completely pure, completely without ego. When you play, you are connecting to the person who wrote the music and everyone else who has played it before. You are part of history and that is an extraordinary thing.”
When I finished I was completely out of breath. Jake didn’t say anything for a moment, just stared down at me, and the intensity of his gaze made me blush. I felt totally exposed, as if I had just taken off my clothes in front of a stranger instead of telling my neighbor the reasons I loved playing the classics.
“I—” I started to say, but before I could get the sentence out, Jake pulled me into his arms and slanted his gorgeous mouth against mine.
Jake is good people. He became Ella's support system when she felt that no one in her life was there for her. He never once doubted her skills as a pianist and came through for her in the most adorable way when she thought things were over between them.
I really liked this book. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down and I finished it in record time. There were plenty of lighthearted moment that made me laugh and it made me crave brownies, which I have year to make. (Trust me, it will make sense once you read it.) Katie has become one of those must read authors for me and I look forward to reading her future books.
February 2, 2016
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
Ella is a classical pianist who is in the midst of an important competition when she moves into her own apartment and meets her upstairs neighbor, hot chef Jake. Their initial reaction to each other is adversarial laced with attraction, but that quickly changed. Soon, Jake was wooing Ella with food and Ella was shedding her "sexy nun" look. But the insecurities come knocking on their door and they both quickly retreat to the people they were before they met each other, saying things they regretted and then wondering how to fix it.
I can say, I've loved stories with this same formula before. But I think what fell flat with this one was how quick the storyline progressed. Ella and Jake went from being irritated with each other one day to practically the next dating. With how shy and insecure Ella was, I would have expected more of a fight from her when it came to any kind of a relationship with Jake. She has panic attacks, even suffered one in which Jake walks into the tail end of it, but that never gets revealed to the guy she's in love with. Jake is jealous of Ella's tutor, yet there wasn't any kind of standoff between the two, especially given what was said when he discovered Ella and Jake's texts. There were just so many different angles that could have been played with this storyline to give it a little bit more emotion and the in for one or both of the characters to really prove their feelings for the other.
The cover and the blurb pulled me in on this one, but the story of pianist Ella and hot ass chef Jake fell flat.
Ella is a classical pianist who is in the midst of an important competition when she moves into her own apartment and meets her upstairs neighbor, hot chef Jake. Their initial reaction to each other is adversarial laced with attraction, but that quickly changed. Soon, Jake was wooing Ella with food and Ella was shedding her "sexy nun" look. But the insecurities come knocking on their door and they both quickly retreat to the people they were before they met each other, saying things they regretted and then wondering how to fix it.
I can say, I've loved stories with this same formula before. But I think what fell flat with this one was how quick the storyline progressed. Ella and Jake went from being irritated with each other one day to practically the next dating. With how shy and insecure Ella was, I would have expected more of a fight from her when it came to any kind of a relationship with Jake. She has panic attacks, even suffered one in which Jake walks into the tail end of it, but that never gets revealed to the guy she's in love with. Jake is jealous of Ella's tutor, yet there wasn't any kind of standoff between the two, especially given what was said when he discovered Ella and Jake's texts. There were just so many different angles that could have been played with this storyline to give it a little bit more emotion and the in for one or both of the characters to really prove their feelings for the other.
The cover and the blurb pulled me in on this one, but the story of pianist Ella and hot ass chef Jake fell flat.
March 15, 2020
רומן רומנטי סקסי, משעשע וכיפי. אלה היא פסנתרנית שמתאמנת לתחרות חשובה. ג'ייק הוא שף של מסעדת יוקרה. הם נפגשים על רקע של יריבות בין שכנים, ולבסוף מתאהבים. הם גם מסיחים את דעתם אחד של השנייה וגם עוזרים אחד לשנייה להתמודד עם דאגות ובעיות. הדמויות הראשיות מקסימות וכתובות נהדר. היה כיף לקרוא.
July 6, 2017
A veces el no leer las sinopsis no es tan bueno, pero a veces es la mejor decisión por la sorpresa que me llevo. Ver una porta como la de este libro con ese nombre y lo primero que piensas no es nada como lo que encontrarás. La verdad es que me encantó.
Ella estaba tan acostumbrada a que le dijeran cómo vivir, ese ex novio/profesor era un idiota eso es seguro. Está tratando de independizarse y prepararse para una competencia, aparte de dar clases cuando se topa con un super sexi vecino que además cocina! Y pobre criatura, me dio tristeza cuando dijo que no comía dulce o chocolate, casi me da un infarto y cuando dijo que comía sopa de lata? Bueno, Jake tenía toda la razón en enloquecer! Jake era super divertido y muy muy sexi. Ahora, lo que no me gustó fue el exceso de dialogo interno! En serio a veces fue demasiado! Pero en general es una buena historia.
Ella estaba tan acostumbrada a que le dijeran cómo vivir, ese ex novio/profesor era un idiota eso es seguro. Está tratando de independizarse y prepararse para una competencia, aparte de dar clases cuando se topa con un super sexi vecino que además cocina! Y pobre criatura, me dio tristeza cuando dijo que no comía dulce o chocolate, casi me da un infarto y cuando dijo que comía sopa de lata? Bueno, Jake tenía toda la razón en enloquecer! Jake era super divertido y muy muy sexi. Ahora, lo que no me gustó fue el exceso de dialogo interno! En serio a veces fue demasiado! Pero en general es una buena historia.
October 23, 2017
Una historia sencilla pero interesante, con ligero drama, con protagonistas que enamoran y se dejan querer. Ideal para relajarse en una tarde con un chocolate caliente.
January 24, 2016
With this being my first read from Katie McCoy, I wasn't sure what to expect. I LOVE the cover and the blurb had me craving more. It started off at a great pace with lovely banter that had me grinning from ear to ear. It kind of took off from there at an extremely fast pace and things seemed to hit fast forward, which was okay with me for the most part. It seemed like the parts that I needed to savor went by way to fast and the parts that needed to hit fast forward dragged on a bit. Either way it still goes down as a delightful, short, sexy read for me. Funny and sexy, yet a little predictable still made this a quick romance read that I would recommend. It was lacking a little meat in the story, but still ended up satisfying my craving for a quick and sassy read.
*Gifted copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
*Gifted copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
January 28, 2016
A recipe for an adorable, sexy book: one enticing blurb, one hot-as-hell chef, one sweet pianist, mix in some quirky family members, a few paper-thin walls, and a smile-inducing ending…and there you have it.
It being Play Me, of course. The cute and fun second book from Katie McCoy. The premise is pretty simple—Ella and Jake share an apartment building, where noise carries. When her piano playing and his late-night antics stop the other from sleeping, they clash…and then, they get it on.
And whew, it's HOT when these two get together. Jake is…perfect. He cooks, he dirty-talks and he falls for sexy-nun Ella. He gives her confidence, shows pride in her and her accomplishments, and just kind of made me wonder why—oh, why?—men like this don't exist in real life. And Ella? Oh, she was super sweet. Branching out finally, it was a quite rewarding to watch her grow into herself, embrace change and build up her self-esteem. Together, their banter, their love for their respective professions, their differences—all of it—added up to a connection that felt very real, and very passionate.
There was just so much to like about this book—from Ella’s penchant for lacy underthings, to Jake’s desire to make food a full body experience, this couple and this story are just so damn loveable, I couldn't possibly have put the book down. But it wasn't just this couple that made this book such a good time. Ella’s slightly crazy (sometimes blind) family were a hoot—even though I felt for Ella at times, given her ‘black sheep’ status. Likewise, Dakota, Jake’s best friend and sous chef, was great—I would love to see a book about her, given her bad track record with men…
I was a *touch* disappointed by the end, just a touch. It felt a little rushed—and while it was beautiful and adorable and sweet, I would have liked it slowed down and padded out to add extra swoons to the existing ones. Because, yeah, there were some serious swoons happening as this couple overcame their obstacles and made piano playing and cooking something thigh-clenchingly sinful.
A laugh-out-loud funny read, Ms. McCoy had all the right ingredients to make Play Me a wonderful, quick and easy rom-com that left me feeling pretty darn happy. And maybe a little mad that Jake isn't real… ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
~~~
Ella Thomas is training for the competition of her life. She's also taking the first steps towards taking control of her life. After spending her life living with her parents and then her controlling boyfriend/teacher, she has a new apartment and a new outlook. Things are looking up. That is, until her upstairs neighbor complains that her playing is disrupting his sleep. She’s frustrated by his expectation that her schedule revolve around his, and she’s even more frustrated that, despite the fact that he came off as an arrogant jerk, she finds him wildly attractive.
As the newly appointed head chef at one of the most popular restaurants in San Francisco, Jake Matson keeps odd hours. His neighbors have always been respectful of the fact that he sleeps later in the mornings…until Ella moves in downstairs. The noise from her piano interrupting his sleep time drives him crazy and things don't go well when he confronts his attractive, but obnoxious, new neighbor. Ella isn't interested in catering to Jake's seemingly wild ways, and Jake has no patience for someone as uptight as Ella.
However, the more they bump into each other, the less antagonistic things become. As they learn the truth about each other, frustration turns to friendship and that attraction ignites. However, these are two polar opposite people who are highly ambitious in their own ways. Can they put love (and each other) first?
Oh my gosh, this book was SO sweet! The recipe in the blurb won me over initially, and that cuteness stuck throughout the book. I was completely won over how incredibly cute and sweet and swoony this story was. I loved Ella and Jake—despite their quirks and insecurities and tendency to act like entitled assholes on occasion. Ella is sweet and a little insecure, but not in an obnoxious way. She's been a little bit bullied, but she's trying to move past that and I admired her for her efforts, and for her ability to see clearly when the people she was supposed to respect were trying to skew her vision. Jake initially came off as cocky and a little unstable, but my heart warmed to him quickly. He’s adorable; the perfect cocktail of sexy, sweet, and swoony. He's a nice guy—and I can't tell you how much I love a book that proves nice guys can be sexy as hell.
This was a light, happy read and so romantic. There were moments where the sweetness in this book hit a level that caused me to glare at my husband. Why hasn't he ever thought to do such sweet things with chicken noodle soup? Or such sexy things with brownies, for that matter? It was impossible not to fall in love with Ella and Jake as they fell in love with each other. The conflict, when it arose, felt authentic—and my heart hurt for Jake and Ella as they muddled their way through it. I loved that wasn't drawn out though, and there was no willful miscommunication. They found their way back to each other in the sweetest, most uplifting way possible and my heart did this happy little dance all over the place for them.
If you're looking for something sweet and flirty, some irresistible dirty talking, and a whole heap of swoony romance, do not hesitate to pick this one up! ~ Shelly, 4 stars
It being Play Me, of course. The cute and fun second book from Katie McCoy. The premise is pretty simple—Ella and Jake share an apartment building, where noise carries. When her piano playing and his late-night antics stop the other from sleeping, they clash…and then, they get it on.
And whew, it's HOT when these two get together. Jake is…perfect. He cooks, he dirty-talks and he falls for sexy-nun Ella. He gives her confidence, shows pride in her and her accomplishments, and just kind of made me wonder why—oh, why?—men like this don't exist in real life. And Ella? Oh, she was super sweet. Branching out finally, it was a quite rewarding to watch her grow into herself, embrace change and build up her self-esteem. Together, their banter, their love for their respective professions, their differences—all of it—added up to a connection that felt very real, and very passionate.
There was just so much to like about this book—from Ella’s penchant for lacy underthings, to Jake’s desire to make food a full body experience, this couple and this story are just so damn loveable, I couldn't possibly have put the book down. But it wasn't just this couple that made this book such a good time. Ella’s slightly crazy (sometimes blind) family were a hoot—even though I felt for Ella at times, given her ‘black sheep’ status. Likewise, Dakota, Jake’s best friend and sous chef, was great—I would love to see a book about her, given her bad track record with men…
I was a *touch* disappointed by the end, just a touch. It felt a little rushed—and while it was beautiful and adorable and sweet, I would have liked it slowed down and padded out to add extra swoons to the existing ones. Because, yeah, there were some serious swoons happening as this couple overcame their obstacles and made piano playing and cooking something thigh-clenchingly sinful.
A laugh-out-loud funny read, Ms. McCoy had all the right ingredients to make Play Me a wonderful, quick and easy rom-com that left me feeling pretty darn happy. And maybe a little mad that Jake isn't real… ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
~~~
Ella Thomas is training for the competition of her life. She's also taking the first steps towards taking control of her life. After spending her life living with her parents and then her controlling boyfriend/teacher, she has a new apartment and a new outlook. Things are looking up. That is, until her upstairs neighbor complains that her playing is disrupting his sleep. She’s frustrated by his expectation that her schedule revolve around his, and she’s even more frustrated that, despite the fact that he came off as an arrogant jerk, she finds him wildly attractive.
As the newly appointed head chef at one of the most popular restaurants in San Francisco, Jake Matson keeps odd hours. His neighbors have always been respectful of the fact that he sleeps later in the mornings…until Ella moves in downstairs. The noise from her piano interrupting his sleep time drives him crazy and things don't go well when he confronts his attractive, but obnoxious, new neighbor. Ella isn't interested in catering to Jake's seemingly wild ways, and Jake has no patience for someone as uptight as Ella.
However, the more they bump into each other, the less antagonistic things become. As they learn the truth about each other, frustration turns to friendship and that attraction ignites. However, these are two polar opposite people who are highly ambitious in their own ways. Can they put love (and each other) first?
Oh my gosh, this book was SO sweet! The recipe in the blurb won me over initially, and that cuteness stuck throughout the book. I was completely won over how incredibly cute and sweet and swoony this story was. I loved Ella and Jake—despite their quirks and insecurities and tendency to act like entitled assholes on occasion. Ella is sweet and a little insecure, but not in an obnoxious way. She's been a little bit bullied, but she's trying to move past that and I admired her for her efforts, and for her ability to see clearly when the people she was supposed to respect were trying to skew her vision. Jake initially came off as cocky and a little unstable, but my heart warmed to him quickly. He’s adorable; the perfect cocktail of sexy, sweet, and swoony. He's a nice guy—and I can't tell you how much I love a book that proves nice guys can be sexy as hell.
This was a light, happy read and so romantic. There were moments where the sweetness in this book hit a level that caused me to glare at my husband. Why hasn't he ever thought to do such sweet things with chicken noodle soup? Or such sexy things with brownies, for that matter? It was impossible not to fall in love with Ella and Jake as they fell in love with each other. The conflict, when it arose, felt authentic—and my heart hurt for Jake and Ella as they muddled their way through it. I loved that wasn't drawn out though, and there was no willful miscommunication. They found their way back to each other in the sweetest, most uplifting way possible and my heart did this happy little dance all over the place for them.
If you're looking for something sweet and flirty, some irresistible dirty talking, and a whole heap of swoony romance, do not hesitate to pick this one up! ~ Shelly, 4 stars
April 26, 2016
Ella and Jake are both driven, both passionate and both dedicated to succeeding. The only difference is for one its all about classical piano and for the other it’s about food. For Ella, Jake is a distraction she says she doesn’t want but maybe he is what she needs and for Jake Ella is the beautiful girl he had no idea her happiness would end up meaning so much. Music, food, drama, laughter and love collide to create a brilliant contemporary romance.
“Have I ever told you about my fantasy about f***ing you on top of a piano?” I arched an eyebrow at him. “Who do you think you are, Christian Gray? What’s next? The red room of pain?”
Ella was a beautiful person inside and out. She was so dedicated to her music despite outside forces telling her it wasn’t the way to go and even though she worried every day she might not reach her dream she never truly gave up; which just proved her strength and resilience.
“She was a mess of contradictions I was more than eager to explore. As long as I could explore the rest of her as well.’
Jake was a the talent, fun, and loveable chef. He was the light heartedness Ella desperately needed in her life to show her you can have fun, laughter and love in your life as well as a passion. He was such a swoon worth hero and proved to Ella just how worthy, beautiful and sexy she was by how he treated her.
“Those big, big eyes had caught mine and there had been a bit of a jolt. Enough that it took half a block for me to realize my heart was racing.”
This was one of those romances where you go away feeling completely satisfied, having got everything you wanted from the book. It was full of love, it was full of laughter and it had enough drama to drag you in and question what was next without it being too heavy. The side characters added another dimension on to the story and allowed you to like more than just the main characters.
“Then I thought about what Mark had said. About gaining weight. About being too emotional. About all the ways I was wrong. For once I just wanted to be right.”
If you want a read that will let you escape and let you read about two people who go from annoying each other, to becoming friends, to helping each other and finally falling for each other; this is your perfect read!
~BETHANY
“Have I ever told you about my fantasy about f***ing you on top of a piano?” I arched an eyebrow at him. “Who do you think you are, Christian Gray? What’s next? The red room of pain?”
Ella was a beautiful person inside and out. She was so dedicated to her music despite outside forces telling her it wasn’t the way to go and even though she worried every day she might not reach her dream she never truly gave up; which just proved her strength and resilience.
“She was a mess of contradictions I was more than eager to explore. As long as I could explore the rest of her as well.’
Jake was a the talent, fun, and loveable chef. He was the light heartedness Ella desperately needed in her life to show her you can have fun, laughter and love in your life as well as a passion. He was such a swoon worth hero and proved to Ella just how worthy, beautiful and sexy she was by how he treated her.
“Those big, big eyes had caught mine and there had been a bit of a jolt. Enough that it took half a block for me to realize my heart was racing.”
This was one of those romances where you go away feeling completely satisfied, having got everything you wanted from the book. It was full of love, it was full of laughter and it had enough drama to drag you in and question what was next without it being too heavy. The side characters added another dimension on to the story and allowed you to like more than just the main characters.
“Then I thought about what Mark had said. About gaining weight. About being too emotional. About all the ways I was wrong. For once I just wanted to be right.”
If you want a read that will let you escape and let you read about two people who go from annoying each other, to becoming friends, to helping each other and finally falling for each other; this is your perfect read!
~BETHANY
January 27, 2016
After reading Katie McCoy's debut novel, Game On, I was really excited to get more from her and she did not disappoint! The cover and the blurb will draw you in and once you start reading you won't want to stop. She excels at twisting a whole lot of sexy and sweet into a story that will pull you in and make you fall in love with each and every person you encounter! Play Me was completely different from her first novel but still oh so good!
Ella and Jake are both driven to succeed, but take different paths to doing that. We have Ella Thomas who is a serious classical musician who has hidden her whole life. She is shy and lacks confidence. She absolutely hates the spotlight being on her. On the other hand, we have Jake Matson who is living his dream of becoming a head chef in the restaurant world. He has worked his butt off to get to where he is today and even works the crazy hours to maintain his success. These two complement each other and make the other a better person. The chemistry is just off the charts explosive between them! I loved watching both characters grow throughout their story.
Play Me was a great combination of humor, passion, and drama. I loved all the side characters, like Dakota (Jake's best friend) and Ella's whole family was just hysterical. This was overall a good book. The only thing I didn't like was that the ending was a little bit too abrupt for my liking, with not even an epilogue as a conclusion. I definitely can't wait to see what else Katie McCoy has in store for us next!
Ella and Jake are both driven to succeed, but take different paths to doing that. We have Ella Thomas who is a serious classical musician who has hidden her whole life. She is shy and lacks confidence. She absolutely hates the spotlight being on her. On the other hand, we have Jake Matson who is living his dream of becoming a head chef in the restaurant world. He has worked his butt off to get to where he is today and even works the crazy hours to maintain his success. These two complement each other and make the other a better person. The chemistry is just off the charts explosive between them! I loved watching both characters grow throughout their story.
Play Me was a great combination of humor, passion, and drama. I loved all the side characters, like Dakota (Jake's best friend) and Ella's whole family was just hysterical. This was overall a good book. The only thing I didn't like was that the ending was a little bit too abrupt for my liking, with not even an epilogue as a conclusion. I definitely can't wait to see what else Katie McCoy has in store for us next!
July 25, 2016
3 Stars:
Such a cute little romance. However, definitely more than 1/8 inch of drywall separates the two.
Aside from a few schematics for dramatic flair I was thoroughly entertained and enjoyed it. A couple of schematics for dramatic effects to prove my point. Point 1: He looks out his window and watches her play in her sexy panties. So I ask, how does 1/8 inch of drywall separate the two? Point 2: When she screams rushes down the stairs to her. Again, I ask how the 1/8 drywall separating the two?? I just could get the floor plan of this apartment to workout in my mind.
It has many redeeming qualities. The characters were likable at best neutral at worst. The writing was much better than expected. I developed an interest that withstood to the end. The plot was nice, somewhat original or had its own unique flair. The writing was good, and the pretense wasn’t half bad, the romance was simmering with few exceptions. The male/female lead showed hints of abuse both verbal and physical, or signs of spot on or forced chemistry. It was a tiny bit predictable. Overall, liked it enough, entertaining.
Such a cute little romance. However, definitely more than 1/8 inch of drywall separates the two.
Aside from a few schematics for dramatic flair I was thoroughly entertained and enjoyed it. A couple of schematics for dramatic effects to prove my point. Point 1: He looks out his window and watches her play in her sexy panties. So I ask, how does 1/8 inch of drywall separate the two? Point 2: When she screams rushes down the stairs to her. Again, I ask how the 1/8 drywall separating the two?? I just could get the floor plan of this apartment to workout in my mind.
It has many redeeming qualities. The characters were likable at best neutral at worst. The writing was much better than expected. I developed an interest that withstood to the end. The plot was nice, somewhat original or had its own unique flair. The writing was good, and the pretense wasn’t half bad, the romance was simmering with few exceptions. The male/female lead showed hints of abuse both verbal and physical, or signs of spot on or forced chemistry. It was a tiny bit predictable. Overall, liked it enough, entertaining.
January 18, 2016
I received a copy of Play Me by Katie McCoy in exchange for an honest review.
Play with me is a fantastic contemporary romance. It has the perfect blend of Romance,Comedy and Drama.
Ella our heroine has the most sensational transformation throughout the book and I love how she became more confident in her music and herself. However, what was wonderful to read was how our amazing Hero the hot chef next door, Jake, liked her and found her attractive regardless of what she wore. Play Me focusses on Loving yourself and knowing that the person you are with should love the real you.
Kate McCoy's writing was a pleasure to read. Her words felt effortless and I had finished the entire book before i realised. Once I began this beautiful journey there was no stopping me, this really is a must read and a definite holiday read.
The sprinkle of comedy spread throughout the book really does life your spirits and any scene with Ella's family will leave you wanting more.
I would most certainly recommend Play Me to all anyone looking for a great romantic escape.
Play with me is a fantastic contemporary romance. It has the perfect blend of Romance,Comedy and Drama.
Ella our heroine has the most sensational transformation throughout the book and I love how she became more confident in her music and herself. However, what was wonderful to read was how our amazing Hero the hot chef next door, Jake, liked her and found her attractive regardless of what she wore. Play Me focusses on Loving yourself and knowing that the person you are with should love the real you.
Kate McCoy's writing was a pleasure to read. Her words felt effortless and I had finished the entire book before i realised. Once I began this beautiful journey there was no stopping me, this really is a must read and a definite holiday read.
The sprinkle of comedy spread throughout the book really does life your spirits and any scene with Ella's family will leave you wanting more.
I would most certainly recommend Play Me to all anyone looking for a great romantic escape.
Want to read
June 11, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (6/11/2018)!💝
Blurb:
1 Chef (equal parts sexy and carefree)
1 Pianist (equal parts uptight and endearing)
1/8 inch of drywall between their apartments
2 opinions on everything
Combine all ingredients, mix vigorously, and be prepared for an explosion of heat.
Pianist Ella Thomas is training for the competition of her life. Finally in an apartment of her own, she can practice from dawn till dusk.
But she didn't bet on the sexy and frustrating neighbor keeping her up all night - even if he does cook like a maestro and kiss like it’s his job.
Jake Matson is living his dream as Head Chef at one of the most popular restaurants in San Francisco. He's easy going, flirtatious and not looking for love. He didn't expect to be completely distracted by the girl next door, whose buttoned-up appearance hides the seductive firecracker underneath.
What happens when opposites attract? As their tension fires up, can they create a new kind of music together or will everything boil over?
Blurb:
1 Chef (equal parts sexy and carefree)
1 Pianist (equal parts uptight and endearing)
1/8 inch of drywall between their apartments
2 opinions on everything
Combine all ingredients, mix vigorously, and be prepared for an explosion of heat.
Pianist Ella Thomas is training for the competition of her life. Finally in an apartment of her own, she can practice from dawn till dusk.
But she didn't bet on the sexy and frustrating neighbor keeping her up all night - even if he does cook like a maestro and kiss like it’s his job.
Jake Matson is living his dream as Head Chef at one of the most popular restaurants in San Francisco. He's easy going, flirtatious and not looking for love. He didn't expect to be completely distracted by the girl next door, whose buttoned-up appearance hides the seductive firecracker underneath.
What happens when opposites attract? As their tension fires up, can they create a new kind of music together or will everything boil over?
February 5, 2016
I really liked this little book. Good writing, sizzling hot chemistry and lots of food talk. A somewhat reserved, classical pianist is training for a big competition that will hopefully further her career. She moves from her family home (after previously living with her "stick up his ass" piano teacher and boyfriend) to the first apartment of her own. Unfortunately, her playing hours interfere with the sleep patterns of her upstairs neighbor, a famous chef at a world renowned San Francisco restaurant who keeps very late hours.
What follows is a story that moves right along with only a little angst here and there. If you're addicted to Campbell's canned Chicken Noodle soup (as I am) I think you'll find this book delicious.
What follows is a story that moves right along with only a little angst here and there. If you're addicted to Campbell's canned Chicken Noodle soup (as I am) I think you'll find this book delicious.
February 6, 2016
I enjoyed this one. It was light and easy to read. Not angsty or filled with heaps of misunderstandings
Filled with humour, this one is great for those who want a quick read and smile on their face while doing it.
Filled with humour, this one is great for those who want a quick read and smile on their face while doing it.
April 30, 2017
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 2.5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Picked this one as a freebie a couple of days ago. ( still FREE : CLICK HERE )
Heroine is a pianist who prepares for a competition and just moved into a new apartment.
Hero is a chef at a restaurant and works late night hours, he lives the apartment upstairs of hers.
Needless to say, a pianist rehearsing in the morning isn't going to please a man who needs his sleep in the morning.
This one starts a bit as an enemies to lovers, which I love, but both characters end up dating and lusting after each other way too soon.
Hero was obviously an expert at seduction and the heroine overcoming with self-issues when she met him ended up happy and free of them.
The plot was nice but nothing to write home about I guess, it was fast paced, predictable as neighbors to lovers trope goes and I enjoyed the book enough to finish it in a couple of hours.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
Picked this one as a freebie a couple of days ago. ( still FREE : CLICK HERE )
Heroine is a pianist who prepares for a competition and just moved into a new apartment.
Hero is a chef at a restaurant and works late night hours, he lives the apartment upstairs of hers.
Needless to say, a pianist rehearsing in the morning isn't going to please a man who needs his sleep in the morning.
This one starts a bit as an enemies to lovers, which I love, but both characters end up dating and lusting after each other way too soon.
Hero was obviously an expert at seduction and the heroine overcoming with self-issues when she met him ended up happy and free of them.
The plot was nice but nothing to write home about I guess, it was fast paced, predictable as neighbors to lovers trope goes and I enjoyed the book enough to finish it in a couple of hours.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
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