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Playing For #2
Playing For Love
David Taylor is the most possessive, dominant, alpha male I have ever met. Technically he's a stalker. He is bossy, needy, nasty, and so very sweet. He is everything I need him to be. I love him so much it scares me. Austin James is mine. Mine to take care of. Mine to spoil. MINE. The first time I saw her, I knew she was MINE. I saw a reflection of myself in her. Broken. Damaged. Guarded. I can't explain the depth of my feelings or why it happened so fast. I just know she's mine and I'll do anything to keep her.
432 pages, Paperback
First published April 27, 2016
76 people are currently reading
1224 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Grant
5 books752 followershttps://instagram.com/writerjcgrant/
J.C.Grant was born and raised in Oklahoma City. Currently living in LA with her rescue dogs.
Writes Erotica.
Sexy Alpha Males
J.C.Grant was born and raised in Oklahoma City. Currently living in LA with her rescue dogs.
Writes Erotica.
Sexy Alpha Males
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
May 10, 2016
Hellooooo.
So this book was VERY challenging for me to write. AND I knew a lot of people would NOT like it.
The first book was their meeting and they were still hiding so much from each other, so this book had to deal with the reality of their choice-two very damaged people with very unique needs jumping into a relationship.
It's not pretty, it's not always happy. But it is very real and honest.
They try to deal with their issues the best they can. Sometimes their best is not good enough.
BUT I can tell you, "David Taylors" do exist. xo
So this book was VERY challenging for me to write. AND I knew a lot of people would NOT like it.
The first book was their meeting and they were still hiding so much from each other, so this book had to deal with the reality of their choice-two very damaged people with very unique needs jumping into a relationship.
It's not pretty, it's not always happy. But it is very real and honest.
They try to deal with their issues the best they can. Sometimes their best is not good enough.
BUT I can tell you, "David Taylors" do exist. xo
April 29, 2016
2.5 Get Ready for a Rant Stars
I never thought I'd utter these words about any H. But David Taylor was too possessive.
I was really struggling to finish this, the first book really left an impression on me so I'm disappointed to say this was not a winner. There wasn't really any plot except a bunch of sex mixed with lots of ex boyfriend/girlfriend drama.
What really turned me off this story was how much of a bitch Austin was. She was very mean to David in my opinion, and even admitted to herself that she found some sick pleasure in hurting him. His devotion to her exceeded anything I've ever read and she trampled all over him and abused his love for her. I understand she has trust issues and has been hurt in the past but her bitchiness exceeded anything I've read or encountered..
This brings me back to my earlier statement about David being too possessive. Don't get me wrong, I love love love OTT obsessed alphas. It's just that his level of obsession towards her made him very weak and extremely vulnerable..
"It scares me sometimes." His voice was a guttural rasp. "How much I love you. How much I need you. When you're not with me, I feel like I can't breathe."
In my opinion, she used this vulnerability against him. The scene where she made him sit in the corner of a change room and not look at her really made me want to break my kindle, I mean he acted like a wounded puppy. It was so sad :(
David was the only plus in this story,he is a sex god who cannot see any wrong in Austin. EVER.
"She is my entire world, and I want to be hers."
He is reason alone to read this book. I would still recommend giving this book a go!
"I love you so fucking much sweet girl. I won't survive without you... I don't want to."
I'm not sure I'll read the next one but I don't want to give up on the trilogy.. the cliffhanger wasn't that enticing but we'll see.
I never thought I'd utter these words about any H. But David Taylor was too possessive.
I was really struggling to finish this, the first book really left an impression on me so I'm disappointed to say this was not a winner. There wasn't really any plot except a bunch of sex mixed with lots of ex boyfriend/girlfriend drama.
What really turned me off this story was how much of a bitch Austin was. She was very mean to David in my opinion, and even admitted to herself that she found some sick pleasure in hurting him. His devotion to her exceeded anything I've ever read and she trampled all over him and abused his love for her. I understand she has trust issues and has been hurt in the past but her bitchiness exceeded anything I've read or encountered..
This brings me back to my earlier statement about David being too possessive. Don't get me wrong, I love love love OTT obsessed alphas. It's just that his level of obsession towards her made him very weak and extremely vulnerable..
"It scares me sometimes." His voice was a guttural rasp. "How much I love you. How much I need you. When you're not with me, I feel like I can't breathe."
In my opinion, she used this vulnerability against him. The scene where she made him sit in the corner of a change room and not look at her really made me want to break my kindle, I mean he acted like a wounded puppy. It was so sad :(
David was the only plus in this story,he is a sex god who cannot see any wrong in Austin. EVER.
"She is my entire world, and I want to be hers."
He is reason alone to read this book. I would still recommend giving this book a go!
"I love you so fucking much sweet girl. I won't survive without you... I don't want to."
I'm not sure I'll read the next one but I don't want to give up on the trilogy.. the cliffhanger wasn't that enticing but we'll see.
January 13, 2018
Ever read a book and wonder that there might be some underlying issue in your psyche that would explain your enjoyment of that story? Because on a technical reality viewpoint this was the perfect example of over the top Co dependency at its finest. Do I care? Absolutely negative. I love everything about David Taylor. From his overbearing, Jealous, possessive, Controlling and insecure self. To his ultra sexual personality. Stalker much? Yep but I wanted more more more. For some reason Austin and David worked in a pretty F'd up way. I honestly had nothing but tingles the whole time. I only had a few moments of wtf and that was related to personal preferences regarding
So might mean I'm a little on the deranged side.. But whatever.. I'd still take a loyal, bossy and devoted David Taylor over a damaged hero who screws others to deal with his love for the heroine as some of the disgusting stories that are being pushed our way claiming to be romance. Gag..
No gimme more #PerfectHero and #SafeRead love stories.. And I'll submit just like Austin did for David.
Can't wait for the next installment and I pray that this author keeps these 2 completely loyal and true. No matter what and a little brown haired baby David or sweet baby girl would be perfect to see this amazing caveman even more everything that he is.
So might mean I'm a little on the deranged side.. But whatever.. I'd still take a loyal, bossy and devoted David Taylor over a damaged hero who screws others to deal with his love for the heroine as some of the disgusting stories that are being pushed our way claiming to be romance. Gag..
No gimme more #PerfectHero and #SafeRead love stories.. And I'll submit just like Austin did for David.
Can't wait for the next installment and I pray that this author keeps these 2 completely loyal and true. No matter what and a little brown haired baby David or sweet baby girl would be perfect to see this amazing caveman even more everything that he is.
September 4, 2019
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★Book Basics★
Genre : - Contemporary Romance
Series : - 2nd in the series, should not be read as a stand alone
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
I read book 1 in the series, a few months back, and it was an enjoyable story, if you like ott (major OTT here) possessive alpha unapologetic heros. And I do!
So when I saw there was a second book about these 2, in all honesty, I felt no rush to read it, I was happy with book 1, it was typical of the alpha ott type romances that you can get on KU tbh. I have read loads of books very similar.
But I decided to pick this one up. And reading reviews, I CAN see why some ppl had an issue with it. Book 1, nothing to deep, yes they had some issues from their past, but nothing too deep really, was a quite short read, heavy on the erotic side and with a fairly decent HFN/HEA.
But in this instalment, we get a much meatier story.
The hero is way more than an OTT Possessive hero. He has some major stalker tendencies with the heroine, would kill for her, do anything for her, never let her go, no matter if she wanted to. But it comes from a vulnerable place inside him.
And the heroine is more messed up than he is (and obviously so, given her history) she can be cold, she can be detached, has major trust issues, but she needs the hero to need her as much as he does. It provided her security.
Now, they clearly have a major messed up, screwed co dependent relationship. And it was hard reading at times, the heroine pushing the hero away, outside influences creating cracks in their very new relationship and marriage.
It was still a hot read, and the hero is super super bossy, the heroine majorly messed up and tends to push the hero away as a method of self preservation. But, i actually really love reading about these 2 in all their messed up glory. And this book was so much more than I expected. It is not going to be for everybody, the hero is too much at times, the heroine does push him away far too much, they communicate far too much with sex, but i devoured it, and was up all night to finish it.
Cannot wait for the 3rd book.
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Contemporary Romance
Series : - 2nd in the series, should not be read as a stand alone
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
I read book 1 in the series, a few months back, and it was an enjoyable story, if you like ott (major OTT here) possessive alpha unapologetic heros. And I do!
So when I saw there was a second book about these 2, in all honesty, I felt no rush to read it, I was happy with book 1, it was typical of the alpha ott type romances that you can get on KU tbh. I have read loads of books very similar.
But I decided to pick this one up. And reading reviews, I CAN see why some ppl had an issue with it. Book 1, nothing to deep, yes they had some issues from their past, but nothing too deep really, was a quite short read, heavy on the erotic side and with a fairly decent HFN/HEA.
But in this instalment, we get a much meatier story.
The hero is way more than an OTT Possessive hero. He has some major stalker tendencies with the heroine, would kill for her, do anything for her, never let her go, no matter if she wanted to. But it comes from a vulnerable place inside him.
And the heroine is more messed up than he is (and obviously so, given her history) she can be cold, she can be detached, has major trust issues, but she needs the hero to need her as much as he does. It provided her security.
Now, they clearly have a major messed up, screwed co dependent relationship. And it was hard reading at times, the heroine pushing the hero away, outside influences creating cracks in their very new relationship and marriage.
It was still a hot read, and the hero is super super bossy, the heroine majorly messed up and tends to push the hero away as a method of self preservation. But, i actually really love reading about these 2 in all their messed up glory. And this book was so much more than I expected. It is not going to be for everybody, the hero is too much at times, the heroine does push him away far too much, they communicate far too much with sex, but i devoured it, and was up all night to finish it.
Cannot wait for the 3rd book.
April 26, 2016
°•°possible spoilers°•°
I was a fan of Playing for keeps. I couldn't wait for more David Taylor. but I'm so disappointed that I didn't love this book.
it picks up right where the last books left off. David is flying Austin off to get married a few days after meeting her. this is where my issues begin. There are parts here in the beginning where it seems Austin barely likes David, let alone loves him. She is actually quite nasty to him at times.
after they are married and get back to real life they both have exes waiting to try and break them up. again, there is one glaringly obvious thing that could have been done to save a bit of the drama here. You're ex is sending you graphic texts and threatening your wife? do you make sure your wife has all these messages forwarded to her phone or do you just change your number? I couldn't get to grips with how they dealt with these people at all.
The biggest issue I had with this book was that I hated Austin. probably more than I've ever hated any other heroine. She is so indecisive. does she want space or does she want david to chase her? No matter what he does he is wrong. She's purposely hurtful to David, she's lazy and she's extremely ungrateful. I lost all hope for her when she was insanely jealous of every female ever born, yet she would make sure to wind him up in the hope of getting him riled up enough for some rough sex. it was impossible to feel an ounce of sympathy for her when she was a giant brat.
if you're looking to suspend reality for a few hours with a crazy alpha that loves dirty sex then I would certainly recommend this. jc certainly didn't disappoint with the sex, but I didn't think for a moment she would.
please note that there were a few scenes in here that even I found beyond the pale. period sex doesn't bother me per sè *but* David obsession with Austins cycle just grossed me out.
I was a fan of Playing for keeps. I couldn't wait for more David Taylor. but I'm so disappointed that I didn't love this book.
it picks up right where the last books left off. David is flying Austin off to get married a few days after meeting her. this is where my issues begin. There are parts here in the beginning where it seems Austin barely likes David, let alone loves him. She is actually quite nasty to him at times.
after they are married and get back to real life they both have exes waiting to try and break them up. again, there is one glaringly obvious thing that could have been done to save a bit of the drama here. You're ex is sending you graphic texts and threatening your wife? do you make sure your wife has all these messages forwarded to her phone or do you just change your number? I couldn't get to grips with how they dealt with these people at all.
The biggest issue I had with this book was that I hated Austin. probably more than I've ever hated any other heroine. She is so indecisive. does she want space or does she want david to chase her? No matter what he does he is wrong. She's purposely hurtful to David, she's lazy and she's extremely ungrateful. I lost all hope for her when she was insanely jealous of every female ever born, yet she would make sure to wind him up in the hope of getting him riled up enough for some rough sex. it was impossible to feel an ounce of sympathy for her when she was a giant brat.
if you're looking to suspend reality for a few hours with a crazy alpha that loves dirty sex then I would certainly recommend this. jc certainly didn't disappoint with the sex, but I didn't think for a moment she would.
please note that there were a few scenes in here that even I found beyond the pale. period sex doesn't bother me per sè *but* David obsession with Austins cycle just grossed me out.
April 30, 2016
Update: can't wait for April 27th!!!!!
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When is it coming out????!!!! Can't wait!!
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When is it coming out????!!!! Can't wait!!
November 2, 2017
I read it again so I'm thinking I actually really like this series and am addicted to it. Their obsessions and insecurities with each other call TO MY SOUL.
January 4, 2023
this gave me 50shades book 2 vibes
The whole book is about big, pathetic NOTHING. It takes them ~ 8 chapters to get married (maybe less, but it felt THAT long and drawn out). Mind you, just to get ready to get married, so it happens in one day. How they chose dresses, how they fuck, how she gets her make-up.
After they got married, it got worse. The whole book is about them sleeping together, eating together, driving to the gym and training together, having a shower together, getting back home together, eating again together, having sex together. Rinse and repeat, over and over again.
Occasionally there would be OM trouble or OW trouble, there would be drama and arguments, while simultaneously we KNOW that neither of them would cheat.
The whole book was tiring to read, because they were already married at the beginning, but the author decided to add some drama. The heroine was going back and forth between being in love with her husband and feeling his undying love for her one moment, and being aggravated by him and doubting if they can survive together the next moment. Multiply this behaviour by infinity 🤡
Also I hated the heroine in this book. She does NOTHING the whole book. The hero makes money, cooks, cleans, packs and unpacks HER stuff when she was moving between houses, takes care of the dog, trains with the heroine, has the time to cater to her every wish while also tracking her and controling her every move. Meanwhile the heroine sits on her ass all day and does shit. She wants to have a career, but she didn't even try to do something about it. She has a publicist and an agent, but she forgot about her career and just exists in this house. No wonder she has time to change her mind about her marriage on the daily.
There was only one scene in the ENTIRE BOOK the heroine showed her care for the hero:after the hero beat OM to a pulp, his hand was all bloody and in need of stitches, he even had teeth marks on the hand from beating the face of the OM. So the heroine asked the doctor if the hero needed to get some shots and then gave him ice for his hand. This miniscule demonstration of affection was perceived by the hero as the greatest symbol of love and god's gift to him. Everything other than that showcased how the hero bend over backwards to please the heroine.
Also, why was the media so obsessed with their marriage and wanted to make the heroine look bad? I get that there are plenty trolls out there, who comment shit on people's lives, but have you seen it irl that an athlete gets married to a struggling C-rate actress and all of the media outlets scream it was an arranged marriage or that she is a gold-digger? Seems tad dramatic ☠️
There is a third book in this series, but I will be skipping it. Reading three huge books about a millionaire bringing breakfast in bed and fucking senseless a flighty and bitchy woman is not my idea of fun.
The whole book is about big, pathetic NOTHING. It takes them ~ 8 chapters to get married (maybe less, but it felt THAT long and drawn out). Mind you, just to get ready to get married, so it happens in one day. How they chose dresses, how they fuck, how she gets her make-up.
After they got married, it got worse. The whole book is about them sleeping together, eating together, driving to the gym and training together, having a shower together, getting back home together, eating again together, having sex together. Rinse and repeat, over and over again.
Occasionally there would be OM trouble or OW trouble, there would be drama and arguments, while simultaneously we KNOW that neither of them would cheat.
The whole book was tiring to read, because they were already married at the beginning, but the author decided to add some drama. The heroine was going back and forth between being in love with her husband and feeling his undying love for her one moment, and being aggravated by him and doubting if they can survive together the next moment. Multiply this behaviour by infinity 🤡
Also I hated the heroine in this book. She does NOTHING the whole book. The hero makes money, cooks, cleans, packs and unpacks HER stuff when she was moving between houses, takes care of the dog, trains with the heroine, has the time to cater to her every wish while also tracking her and controling her every move. Meanwhile the heroine sits on her ass all day and does shit. She wants to have a career, but she didn't even try to do something about it. She has a publicist and an agent, but she forgot about her career and just exists in this house. No wonder she has time to change her mind about her marriage on the daily.
There was only one scene in the ENTIRE BOOK the heroine showed her care for the hero:after the hero beat OM to a pulp, his hand was all bloody and in need of stitches, he even had teeth marks on the hand from beating the face of the OM. So the heroine asked the doctor if the hero needed to get some shots and then gave him ice for his hand. This miniscule demonstration of affection was perceived by the hero as the greatest symbol of love and god's gift to him. Everything other than that showcased how the hero bend over backwards to please the heroine.
Also, why was the media so obsessed with their marriage and wanted to make the heroine look bad? I get that there are plenty trolls out there, who comment shit on people's lives, but have you seen it irl that an athlete gets married to a struggling C-rate actress and all of the media outlets scream it was an arranged marriage or that she is a gold-digger? Seems tad dramatic ☠️
There is a third book in this series, but I will be skipping it. Reading three huge books about a millionaire bringing breakfast in bed and fucking senseless a flighty and bitchy woman is not my idea of fun.
August 1, 2024
I loved this book as much as I hated it. It was not a dark romance but a very obsessive and toxic relationship between Austin and David.
It frustrated me and kept me on edge. David was soooooooooooooooooooo ott possessive and unhinged for her. He wanted her to be dependent on him in any way possible, just so she could never leave him.
Austin was also insecure, she had a bad past, she was bitch to him sometimes but he handled all of her like everything. All he wanted was her to be with him.
This is my guilty pleasure. This book is
🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩
‼️no cheating, some ow/om is there‼️
It frustrated me and kept me on edge. David was soooooooooooooooooooo ott possessive and unhinged for her. He wanted her to be dependent on him in any way possible, just so she could never leave him.
Austin was also insecure, she had a bad past, she was bitch to him sometimes but he handled all of her like everything. All he wanted was her to be with him.
This is my guilty pleasure. This book is
🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩
‼️no cheating, some ow/om is there‼️
March 5, 2018
Okay. I definitely liked book 2 better than book 1. It had more depth. Still not a ton... let’s face it, this series is mostly hot, dirty, and wild sex. BUT there is more going on, and that left me dying to find out what shenanigans these characters would come up with next. Can’t wait to see how this all turns out.
April 29, 2016
Ok so its more like three and a half stars. But let me say that's mostly because of my love for the first book and the fact that the sex scenes *even if there area million* are still hottttt every time.
I loved the first book. Loved the insta love. LOVED David and all things obsessive. So what's my problem with this book?
Austin.
She was too damn annoying in this book. I get that she had issues and in the first books those issues made sense in her actions. But this book is literally a back and forth of her pain in the ass indecisiveness. I love him. I don't love him. I love his need for me. Its suffocating. Don't be so controlling. I need you to control me. It was EXHAUSTING. She killed this book for me. What saved it?
David.
His NEVER ending love. His devotion and yes obsession. His catering and pampering. His sweet talk. His dirty talk! God if I found this man in real life I would jump him and keep HIM captive.
I'm not saying I dislike the author's writing. Or even that I wont read the next book *I'm a sucker for the pain.* Maybe its just me in my annoyance of Austin. But I do think you don't have to love the main characters to love a story. That actually makes it more real for me. So bring on the ending. Bring on the annoying ex. The fame hungry creeps. And Matthew. Cause you know that bitch aint far. Cant wait.
I loved the first book. Loved the insta love. LOVED David and all things obsessive. So what's my problem with this book?
Austin.
She was too damn annoying in this book. I get that she had issues and in the first books those issues made sense in her actions. But this book is literally a back and forth of her pain in the ass indecisiveness. I love him. I don't love him. I love his need for me. Its suffocating. Don't be so controlling. I need you to control me. It was EXHAUSTING. She killed this book for me. What saved it?
David.
His NEVER ending love. His devotion and yes obsession. His catering and pampering. His sweet talk. His dirty talk! God if I found this man in real life I would jump him and keep HIM captive.
I'm not saying I dislike the author's writing. Or even that I wont read the next book *I'm a sucker for the pain.* Maybe its just me in my annoyance of Austin. But I do think you don't have to love the main characters to love a story. That actually makes it more real for me. So bring on the ending. Bring on the annoying ex. The fame hungry creeps. And Matthew. Cause you know that bitch aint far. Cant wait.
April 2, 2024
Why didn't they have call block? So much of their drama could have been avoided by using modern technology. It just seemed silly.
I get why a lot of readers hated Austin in this one but I didn't. Anyone who enjoyed David's level of crazy would encourage it. I actually liked that she was honest with herself about why they worked.
The OW drama was different from my expectations. Dawn was only a threat in Austin's mind. The nature of David's arrangement with her just made me laugh. Like, of course you couldn't be bothered to spend time with your human blow up doll.
The OM drama had the effect of showing just how cold Austin will probably get in book 3.
This was too long for all of the plot movement to happen at the beginning and end.
I get why a lot of readers hated Austin in this one but I didn't. Anyone who enjoyed David's level of crazy would encourage it. I actually liked that she was honest with herself about why they worked.
The OW drama was different from my expectations. Dawn was only a threat in Austin's mind. The nature of David's arrangement with her just made me laugh. Like, of course you couldn't be bothered to spend time with your human blow up doll.
The OM drama had the effect of showing just how cold Austin will probably get in book 3.
This was too long for all of the plot movement to happen at the beginning and end.
April 27, 2016
Ever since that fateful day I stumbled upon Playing for Keeps (Book 1) on NetGalley I have been nothing short of obsessed with the intense love affair between David Taylor and Austin James. I silently stalked the author's social media, waiting for the sequel. As release day neared, I grew more and more impatient... entering giveaways for free copies of ARCs, signing up for the blog tour.. anything and everything to get my hands on the earliest possible copy of this book - Playing for Love, she was calling it.
One night, I get a Facebook notification. There it is. All my hard work has paid off. One of my entries has won an ARC of Playing for Love! I quickly shoot my email address over to the author and await my prize. She responds almost immediately that the ARC will be emailed to me that weekend. THAT WEEKEND? ITS TUESDAY, WOMAN! What on Earth am I supposed to do until then? ARGH! With no other option, I bide my time and begin the longest wait in "waiting for an ARC to show up" history.
I must say... anticipation made it all that much sweeter. Because as all the teasers have said, #DavidTaylorreallydidkeepmeupallnight, #DavidTaylorruinedme, #Iwanttobehissweetgirl.
Characters - David Taylor, the most alpha of alphas.. he is beautiful. A former professional baseball player turned underwear model fell instantly in love with Austin James in Playing for Keeps and has every intention of spending the rest of his life with her. No ifs, ands or butts (heehee). Austin - David's "sweet girl", has terrible PTSD from trauma she suffered when she was younger. It has warped her view on love and attachment. David tries everything in his arsenal to help her overcome her issues but his version of love most often swings to the side of crazy possessiveness. There are a few secondary characters in this book but honestly, none that really mattered to me other than the tie-ins with the exes. The entire story revolves around David and Austin and that is just fine :).
Story - I think honestly Playing for Love is going to be a lot like Playing for Keeps in that its polarizing - people are either going to love it or they are not going to like it at all. Its not one of those books that you can be just ok with. Its mostly about sex. Lots and lots, LOTS. OF. SEX. Sex over here, over there... any kind of sex you can think about. There is a lot of drama in this book. Drama with friends, big drama with ex bf/gfs. For me, this added a new layer onto the story that wasnt there in the first book. As for the ending.. I received an ARC (like I mentioned earlier) and my copy just ended rather suddenly. BOOK #3 perhaps? Be still my heart.... I dont know if I can take it. But I am certainly willing to try. BRING. IT. ON.
I absolutely LOVED Playing for Love by JC Grant, as I knew I would. I had been waiting for this book for months and the author came through like a champ for me!
I give it 5***** WickedGoodStars and would give it more if I had them!
#DavidTaylorIwillloveyouforever
One night, I get a Facebook notification. There it is. All my hard work has paid off. One of my entries has won an ARC of Playing for Love! I quickly shoot my email address over to the author and await my prize. She responds almost immediately that the ARC will be emailed to me that weekend. THAT WEEKEND? ITS TUESDAY, WOMAN! What on Earth am I supposed to do until then? ARGH! With no other option, I bide my time and begin the longest wait in "waiting for an ARC to show up" history.
I must say... anticipation made it all that much sweeter. Because as all the teasers have said, #DavidTaylorreallydidkeepmeupallnight, #DavidTaylorruinedme, #Iwanttobehissweetgirl.
Characters - David Taylor, the most alpha of alphas.. he is beautiful. A former professional baseball player turned underwear model fell instantly in love with Austin James in Playing for Keeps and has every intention of spending the rest of his life with her. No ifs, ands or butts (heehee). Austin - David's "sweet girl", has terrible PTSD from trauma she suffered when she was younger. It has warped her view on love and attachment. David tries everything in his arsenal to help her overcome her issues but his version of love most often swings to the side of crazy possessiveness. There are a few secondary characters in this book but honestly, none that really mattered to me other than the tie-ins with the exes. The entire story revolves around David and Austin and that is just fine :).
Story - I think honestly Playing for Love is going to be a lot like Playing for Keeps in that its polarizing - people are either going to love it or they are not going to like it at all. Its not one of those books that you can be just ok with. Its mostly about sex. Lots and lots, LOTS. OF. SEX. Sex over here, over there... any kind of sex you can think about. There is a lot of drama in this book. Drama with friends, big drama with ex bf/gfs. For me, this added a new layer onto the story that wasnt there in the first book. As for the ending.. I received an ARC (like I mentioned earlier) and my copy just ended rather suddenly. BOOK #3 perhaps? Be still my heart.... I dont know if I can take it. But I am certainly willing to try. BRING. IT. ON.
I absolutely LOVED Playing for Love by JC Grant, as I knew I would. I had been waiting for this book for months and the author came through like a champ for me!
I give it 5***** WickedGoodStars and would give it more if I had them!
#DavidTaylorIwillloveyouforever
May 2, 2016
"It scares me sometimes." His voice was a guttural rasp. "How much I love you. How much I need you. When you're not with me, I feel like I can't breathe."
Well I think I can't say anything that I haven't said on my review of the first book. This book is more or less, has the same tone as the first one. We have tons of steamy scenes, David is just as possessive as he was in the first book, if not even more. I still think their relationship is unhealthy and fucked and well, they're both still aware of it.
" "Normal" relationships didn't work for us. We both had issues that affected our everyday lives. Someone that hadn't experienced the things we had would never understand us. The outside world might view our relationship as fucked up, co-dependent, or whatever, but it worked for us."
In Playing for Love however, the author explores more on each of the characters' insecurities and past. There's a lot of O/M and O/W drama going on that I imagine will not sit well for some and it bothered me at first too. But I think in order for both characters to grow, it's unnecessary hell. I feel like, as unstable as they are, if they cannot get pass this whole drama, they're doomed.
Overall, this book's an intense read, at least for me. Normally I wouldn't even bother reading this kind of book but I do have masochistic tendencies.... so... lol. Like I said before in my first review, this book isn't for everyone. If you have read the first book and hated it, stay away from this book. If you hate O/W, O/M drama, stay away from this book. If you hate OTT heroes, stay AWAY FROM THIS BOOK.
May 7, 2016
Okay.. I'll be anxiously anticipating book three because here I was, happily turning pages, waiting for what was next, and, BAM! Story ends. I have so many questions, and so much has yet to happen. I not only want but NEED.. desperately NEED more of these two asap.
Don't get me wrong. They're both massively screwed up characters and I'm not even going to pretend to understand their logic and head space, because I honestly didn't, but I knew they had this instant connection and could work through their obstacles to reach their happily ever after.
I tried to look past their flaws, because they each had a TON of them. David is beyond possessive, and Austin is indecisive to the point it could jeopardize their whole relationship, but when they finally do communicate (in whatever method they choose), they make progress. What was important for me in this story was the fact they remained united when their exes of sorts kept trying to ruin their marriage. David was fiercely protective of his wife, and Austin did what she had to do in order to go to bat for her man as well. It's in those moments that they each realize what they actually mean to one another.
These two still have a ton of work to do and a lot of issues to overcome, but I'm confident they're making strides towards one main goal to be a happy and strong couple. I can't wait to see what's next for this pair. I'm sure it will be an interesting albeit sexy adventure!
Don't get me wrong. They're both massively screwed up characters and I'm not even going to pretend to understand their logic and head space, because I honestly didn't, but I knew they had this instant connection and could work through their obstacles to reach their happily ever after.
I tried to look past their flaws, because they each had a TON of them. David is beyond possessive, and Austin is indecisive to the point it could jeopardize their whole relationship, but when they finally do communicate (in whatever method they choose), they make progress. What was important for me in this story was the fact they remained united when their exes of sorts kept trying to ruin their marriage. David was fiercely protective of his wife, and Austin did what she had to do in order to go to bat for her man as well. It's in those moments that they each realize what they actually mean to one another.
These two still have a ton of work to do and a lot of issues to overcome, but I'm confident they're making strides towards one main goal to be a happy and strong couple. I can't wait to see what's next for this pair. I'm sure it will be an interesting albeit sexy adventure!
May 20, 2016
I rarely write a review I give it the stars I think it deserves and that's it so for me to say something I had to really love it or had a problem with it.
So here I go the drama in the book was over the top for me I actually had to stop reading it and went back to it weeks later so I could finish it and not give up. Austin way to much of a bitch she did get better towards the end but the damage was done she killed it for me . I love David hell I want a David he's over the top sweet I felt so bad for him for the way Austin treated him, having said that I will read the next book because I'm hoping it will be better and since I LOVED the first book I will give it a chance.
So here I go the drama in the book was over the top for me I actually had to stop reading it and went back to it weeks later so I could finish it and not give up. Austin way to much of a bitch she did get better towards the end but the damage was done she killed it for me . I love David hell I want a David he's over the top sweet I felt so bad for him for the way Austin treated him, having said that I will read the next book because I'm hoping it will be better and since I LOVED the first book I will give it a chance.
April 30, 2016
David Taylor is my God and I will pray to him every day!!! Austin on the other hand...I really had a hard time liking her. Yes she had her issues the same as David but hers made her into kind of a bitch. I will be patiently waiting for the third book!!!!!
Want to read
March 15, 2016its coming out APRIL 27TH! cant wait Gosh
gave-up-on
April 13, 2023DNF @ 47%
I really tried but couldn't finish this one. Not sure if I'll make another attempt but for now I'm too annoyed. This book has David's POV and I was glad to see how crazy he was for Austin. Honestly this book is a repeat of the first one. Just Austin and David dealing with their shit. Not much else happening and I didn't mind except for one thing. Fucking Austin.
They get married in this one and David organizes everything even flying out her mom. They get along but her mom warns him that he hasn't seen the real Austin yet and that she gets real mean. OMFG was she ever right. I expected to sympathize with Austin cause David is OTT possessive but it was the reverse. Austin was so mean to him and he just took it. Even her mom said it was like kicking a puppy. Austin was actually glad that her mom said that cause it meant he would take her abuse. When they go to try on wedding outfits, she makes him sit in a changing room alone for hours so he wouldn't look at her. She gets upset at the most ridiculous things (imagine being upset that her mom left so they could have their honeymoon alone?) I haven't explained the other shit she did cause I don't want to spoil but jeez. I kept wishing David left her cause he deserved better. So disappointing but I couldn't put up with over 400 pages of Austin's attitude. Maybe I'll try to finish this book another time. Maybe.
I really tried but couldn't finish this one. Not sure if I'll make another attempt but for now I'm too annoyed. This book has David's POV and I was glad to see how crazy he was for Austin. Honestly this book is a repeat of the first one. Just Austin and David dealing with their shit. Not much else happening and I didn't mind except for one thing. Fucking Austin.
They get married in this one and David organizes everything even flying out her mom. They get along but her mom warns him that he hasn't seen the real Austin yet and that she gets real mean. OMFG was she ever right. I expected to sympathize with Austin cause David is OTT possessive but it was the reverse. Austin was so mean to him and he just took it. Even her mom said it was like kicking a puppy. Austin was actually glad that her mom said that cause it meant he would take her abuse. When they go to try on wedding outfits, she makes him sit in a changing room alone for hours so he wouldn't look at her. She gets upset at the most ridiculous things (imagine being upset that her mom left so they could have their honeymoon alone?) I haven't explained the other shit she did cause I don't want to spoil but jeez. I kept wishing David left her cause he deserved better. So disappointing but I couldn't put up with over 400 pages of Austin's attitude. Maybe I'll try to finish this book another time. Maybe.
January 3, 2020
I love him but she is a lazy, spoiled brat who doesn’t appreciate what she has.
February 6, 2017
Standalone/Cliffhanger: Cliffhanger
Ages of H and h: h is 26 and H is 30
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: Maybe
>>Detail: I don't know if I missed something but there's a mention that David's ex fuck buddy gave him a BJ the week before they met. Even though I remember in the first book he was celibate. Idk. Austin is really pissed off about it. There's no cheating in the book tho.
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: Maybe
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Yes
My Thoughts
There's a lot going on. For me in this book, David came across as too controlling. Tracking her phone and car and linking their phones. It's a really co-defendant relationship. I wish he'd give Austin some space, because as I was reading the book I felt suffocated by his actions. There's no denial in his obsessive alpha behaviour, but at times it was too much. Austin was so wishy washy and dormant I don't blame her as David pretty much didn't listen to her.
Ages of H and h: h is 26 and H is 30
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: Maybe
>>Detail: I don't know if I missed something but there's a mention that David's ex fuck buddy gave him a BJ the week before they met. Even though I remember in the first book he was celibate. Idk. Austin is really pissed off about it. There's no cheating in the book tho.
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: Maybe
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Yes
My Thoughts
There's a lot going on. For me in this book, David came across as too controlling. Tracking her phone and car and linking their phones. It's a really co-defendant relationship. I wish he'd give Austin some space, because as I was reading the book I felt suffocated by his actions. There's no denial in his obsessive alpha behaviour, but at times it was too much. Austin was so wishy washy and dormant I don't blame her as David pretty much didn't listen to her.
April 12, 2017
All I can say is I fricking love David Taylor and Austin (James) Taylor n if u read Playing for Keeps them u know exactly how sexy they are together .... But let me tell u anyway , I was reading another series when this one came out so it actually got me behind on some of my series n I haven't read some bc I just don't want them to end .. Let me tell u this book is So sexy , breathtaking , HOTT , and steamy .. David and Austin Taylor are the most sexual couple I've read about .. N their possessiveness over each other just makes them .....The perfect couple :)
Playing for Love......WOW..... It is so fricking sweet, Hot n sexy .. This is the 2 book n basically shows how 2 hopelessly in love , insecure , damaged , and very possessive people handle a new marriage , and difficult situation that is for sure going to cause a ripple in their happy ever after. But when both realize that they both have issues but don't want to be with anyone else they have to make more compromises for each other .. But when Austin realizes all the compromises David has made for her and he is just as vulnerable as she is , Austin then realizes that she is the one that needs to make compromise for David and she too is just as jealous , possessive as her Hott sexual husband.. This book does deal with some of the issues a secrets that they have ..
Loved this book , can't wait for 3.. Thank you JC Grant for this sexy dominate David and his sweet Girl Austin Taylor's story u are truly awesome ..
Playing for Love......WOW..... It is so fricking sweet, Hot n sexy .. This is the 2 book n basically shows how 2 hopelessly in love , insecure , damaged , and very possessive people handle a new marriage , and difficult situation that is for sure going to cause a ripple in their happy ever after. But when both realize that they both have issues but don't want to be with anyone else they have to make more compromises for each other .. But when Austin realizes all the compromises David has made for her and he is just as vulnerable as she is , Austin then realizes that she is the one that needs to make compromise for David and she too is just as jealous , possessive as her Hott sexual husband.. This book does deal with some of the issues a secrets that they have ..
Loved this book , can't wait for 3.. Thank you JC Grant for this sexy dominate David and his sweet Girl Austin Taylor's story u are truly awesome ..
May 9, 2016
Playing for Keeps was one of my top reads in 2015 and left me with a book hangover for days, I loved the over the top alpha male that is David Taylor the sex god and Playing for love starts off where Playing for keeps left us but.... From page one this was a much different story, Austin James is no longer the girl with a bad past that wants to keep her heart and mind safe she is now a difficult and unpleasant women. We see her trying to hurt David and looking for a reason or way to run while our once sex god has went from being possessive and dominant to crazy almost abusive or total wimp with no in between. I have to say that with us being reminded every few pages in the first 25% that she was on her period was a real turn off for me as was the fact that in the last 25% or so had you reading colonic more then a handful of times and top it off with the fact that Austin is now written as someone that is really easy to hate and I had to force myself to read this book, I want to like it because I loved the first one so much and I want to say I will read the next in the series but in truth I just don't think I can.
December 23, 2023
Austin completely ruined this book for me. She was so fucking annoying that I wanted to bitch-slap her through my phone. I hated how indecisive she was about her feelings towards David. One minute she loved him the next she was unsure. I get that this is Insta-love (at least for David it was) and she was unsure in the beginning, duh that's normal. But when they had gotten married and the book started to hit the 75% mark and she was STILL questioning her love, that's when my eye started to twitch. Like every ten pages or so Austin had one foot out the door. I honestly don't know what David character’s sees in hers. She gave nothing back while David is just handing over his love to her ungrateful self.
David is the ONLY reason why I'll probably read the last book. He still is, in my eyes, the perfect OTT alpha. I loved how we got to read from his pov, I was really able to grasp how much he worships and adores Austin. If only her character can get that through her thick skull.
David is the ONLY reason why I'll probably read the last book. He still is, in my eyes, the perfect OTT alpha. I loved how we got to read from his pov, I was really able to grasp how much he worships and adores Austin. If only her character can get that through her thick skull.
October 27, 2017
This was fun to read, even though at times I wanted to throw the book at them both. They're really cute but man they are so needy for each other. I wanted a second of them apart but eh they seem to like it. They've both got so many issues and when she wouldn't 'forgive him' for basically having an ex I was going insane. I understood that she shutdown but it was so annoying and sad when he was trying so hard. Though it was realistic and he broke through. Theyre both so annoying about the fact that the other has EVER slept with anyone else, I began to wish they were virgins when they met. Anyway, it was cute, and hopefully in the next book they'll both be working or something because I honestly don't know how they (mostly David but her too) want to spend 24/7 together. I loved their wedding, I was so jealous of her dress and cake!!
Edit: aww the next book isn't out yet. i really wanted to read more of them!!
Edit: aww the next book isn't out yet. i really wanted to read more of them!!
April 27, 2016
Reviewing for KinkyGirlsBookObsessions
Austin James is mine.
Mine to take care of.
Mine to protect.
Mine to spoil.
MINE.
OTT ALPHA DAVID TAYLOR is back. Just when their erotic love story was speed-fast and over the top insta-love, sexy and possessive... J.C. turned this into a series. I loved PLAYING FOR KEEPS and didn't think she could top my ORIGINAL Stalker...I'm wrong. The possession David has over Austin is very over the top and I love it. This relationship is exactly what Austin needs. What David needs. Their story is perfect for them. You learn more about Austin's and David's past. And you love them even more as they learn more about each other. They still push the limit, but they now know when they've went to far.
If you like OVER THE TOP ALPHA MALES in LOVE. Read Playing for Keeps and Playing for Love.
I'm so proud of how this book turned out.
Austin James is mine.
Mine to take care of.
Mine to protect.
Mine to spoil.
MINE.
OTT ALPHA DAVID TAYLOR is back. Just when their erotic love story was speed-fast and over the top insta-love, sexy and possessive... J.C. turned this into a series. I loved PLAYING FOR KEEPS and didn't think she could top my ORIGINAL Stalker...I'm wrong. The possession David has over Austin is very over the top and I love it. This relationship is exactly what Austin needs. What David needs. Their story is perfect for them. You learn more about Austin's and David's past. And you love them even more as they learn more about each other. They still push the limit, but they now know when they've went to far.
If you like OVER THE TOP ALPHA MALES in LOVE. Read Playing for Keeps and Playing for Love.
I'm so proud of how this book turned out.
April 28, 2016
Love this book series!!
The 1st in the series Playing for Keeps was one of my fave books of 2015!
I read it in one (very long) night...woke up re read it, and have read it again a few times since.
So obviously I've been eagerly awaiting this book, and although I didn't find it as good as the first...I still loved it.
David **swoons**....OMG...Mr Taylor!! I loved him more and more throughout the story, he's an absolute darling!
Austin....ok so first book I liked her fine...but this book hhmmmm.....she did piss me off a little. Her bratty, bitchy attitude pissed me more and more the further I read....but their love story and David's character is more than enough to outweigh my growing dislike of Austin's character to award this book any less than a 5 star review!!
Very much looking forward to the next book in series.
The 1st in the series Playing for Keeps was one of my fave books of 2015!
I read it in one (very long) night...woke up re read it, and have read it again a few times since.
So obviously I've been eagerly awaiting this book, and although I didn't find it as good as the first...I still loved it.
David **swoons**....OMG...Mr Taylor!! I loved him more and more throughout the story, he's an absolute darling!
Austin....ok so first book I liked her fine...but this book hhmmmm.....she did piss me off a little. Her bratty, bitchy attitude pissed me more and more the further I read....but their love story and David's character is more than enough to outweigh my growing dislike of Austin's character to award this book any less than a 5 star review!!
Very much looking forward to the next book in series.
July 30, 2016
Once again #DavidTaylor got me feeling like a need a vibrator 24/7 wow!!!
I received this hotness arc for an honest review, and let me tell you something #DAVIDTAYLOR is a mannnnnnnnn wow, that story is hot, funny (kind of), thoughtful and David emotions are over the place and I just loving him more. Their relationship is not perfect for many people but for them was just that, perfect… (For me too). I love the erotica pretty much but the hot, sexy, caring, and sweet OTT alpha male was beyond perfect. David gives us his feelings and we can understand him even more. Austin is a one lucky woman…. Seriously am babbling because I love this book so much and cannot wait for the conclusion…. JC I Loveeeeee You!!!!And I definitely recommend this book to any of the #SweetGirls out there!!!!
I received this hotness arc for an honest review, and let me tell you something #DAVIDTAYLOR is a mannnnnnnnn wow, that story is hot, funny (kind of), thoughtful and David emotions are over the place and I just loving him more. Their relationship is not perfect for many people but for them was just that, perfect… (For me too). I love the erotica pretty much but the hot, sexy, caring, and sweet OTT alpha male was beyond perfect. David gives us his feelings and we can understand him even more. Austin is a one lucky woman…. Seriously am babbling because I love this book so much and cannot wait for the conclusion…. JC I Loveeeeee You!!!!And I definitely recommend this book to any of the #SweetGirls out there!!!!
June 30, 2018
Here is what happens in this book:
They have sex and she has multiple orgasms from his magic penis
They put on and take off sweats/shorts/tees/tanks
They shower
They go to the gym
She admires the muscles in his back
She admires that sexy "V" in his abs
He brings her breakfast in bed
ALL OF THESE OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER
They also get hundreds of annoying texts from their exes - and somehow this guy who is savvy enough to track her phone DOESN'T KNOW HOW TO BLOCK PHONE NUMBERS.
I enjoyed the first book, but this didn't have enough plot to propel it and too much repetition to keep it fresh. I kept hoping something - ANYTHING - interesting would happen.
Not recommended. I can not see these two staying together.
They have sex and she has multiple orgasms from his magic penis
They put on and take off sweats/shorts/tees/tanks
They shower
They go to the gym
She admires the muscles in his back
She admires that sexy "V" in his abs
He brings her breakfast in bed
ALL OF THESE OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER
They also get hundreds of annoying texts from their exes - and somehow this guy who is savvy enough to track her phone DOESN'T KNOW HOW TO BLOCK PHONE NUMBERS.
I enjoyed the first book, but this didn't have enough plot to propel it and too much repetition to keep it fresh. I kept hoping something - ANYTHING - interesting would happen.
Not recommended. I can not see these two staying together.
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