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Players #3

Play Maker

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James Martin: international soccer sensation, owner of a drool-worthy body, and panty-dropping bad boy.

He's the perfect one night stand.

And by one night stand I mean two night stand.

And by two night stand I mean three night stand.

Nicole Grant is living every girl's fantasy: a rendezvous with the sexiest Brit on either side of the pond. It's just one night, and that's fine with her. With her busy work schedule and a special needs brother she's devoted to, flings are all Nicole has time for. No complicated feelings and no strings attached. Just hot sex.

James Martin is used to scoring -- on and off the field. His prowess in the game is rivaled only by his reputation in the tabloids. But after Nicole gives him the best hookup of his life, he experiences something new: a woman who isn't throwing herself at his feet, who knows all he has to offer and is still keeping her distance. Apparently there's a first time for everything.

James can't get Nicole out of his head. She's funny and she's irresistible. Nicole can't James off her mind. He's good hearted and he's sexy. Will their standoff end in a draw, or can this one night stand kick off something real?

248 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 6, 2016

341 people are currently reading
1525 people want to read

About the author

Katie McCoy

20 books816 followers
Katie 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 185 reviews
Profile Image for Romance Readers Retreat.
2,346 reviews225 followers
June 6, 2016
4.5 stars

I've read everything there is to read by this author and absolutely loved it! I'll have to admit that what first drew me to read this book was the sinfully hot cover, but as soon as I started reading I learned that there was much more to love than just the hot cover. I was completely captivated with the story and could not stop reading.

James Grant, sexy British football player, has the ultimate playboy reputation, even being termed the Play Maker. He is used to scoring on and off the field and getting everything that he wants. Nicole Grant is the female version of a player. With a demanding work schedule and a brother she is completely devoted to, she only has time for one night stands. She doesn't have time for complicated feelings when her brother always comes first. When these two meet they share intense chemistry and the sparks are flying. After having the best one night stand ever and feeling things they both shouldn't be feeling after only one night together, James experiences something he never has before: a woman who isn't falling all over him and is still keeping her distance from him. They both can't get the other off their minds. Will their one night stand turn into something real? Will they quit their playboy reputations forever?

I loved James and how he interacted with Nicole and her family. He was hot and sweet and caring and funny, even though he has his reputation as a playboy. I really hope we see more from Nicole's best friend, Maya and James' manager, Ethan. There was definitely something going on there and I hope we get a story for them. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for more from the author!
Profile Image for Red Cheeks Reads.
2,279 reviews373 followers
July 3, 2016
Nicole is a funny, sweet, caring, beautiful young woman. She's loved by many and although she has her admirers, she will never get committed to anyone, just fun and easy encounters. Because the main person in her life is her brother, he depends on her and she will do anything and everything for him. But things might be about to change when sexy, but known playboy, football star, James Martin, walks up to her counter. Nicole can't stop thinking that maybe she wants more than just one passionate night....maybe a lot more?

"It felt like I had been waiting for this moment for years, instead of only a few hours."

This was a really fun, flirty, sexy, romance with some really cute aspects added that made it slightly different to the norm. I've always loved sports romances and this was no different!

"One night stands were one night. That was the rule. No repeats. No Exceptions."

Nicole was honestly one of the loveliest female characters I have read. You could see why so many loved her and her dedication to support and help her brother was so beautiful to read. I actually also really liked her love em and leave em attitude, it was refreshing for a woman to be like that rather than a man; think it showed she confident on her own and didn't need a man to make her happy.

"Why not indulge in a fantasy I had at my fingertips? Would another night with James really be so bad? After all, it was just s*x."

James was our sexy, cocky, confident, British sports star. I really liked James, I liked that even though he had a reputation as a a bit of a player, really he wasn't and his reputation was worse than the reality. When he sees that Nicole is trying to leave him behind, he ups his game and his charm and I loved that he chased after her, wanted to prove himself and fight for her. It was good to see him wanting to look after her, after Nicole has always looked after others before herself.

"The perfect one night stand shows up just as I’m ready to try the whole dating thing. Just my f**king luck."

This was just a fun, easy read. With a really captivating and entertaining relationship between the two main characters and some good dynamics between others in the story. It was also fun to read about the guy chasing the girl. It had some lovely heart warming moments, some tear jerking moments, definitely some sexy, hot, scenes and some interesting plot surprises which kept the story flowing nicely!

~BETHANY
Profile Image for Samantha Ortegon.
Author 1 book50 followers
June 5, 2016
Katie McCoy once again has put me under a spell with her freaking hot, sexy, complicated, and easy to fall in love with athletic character. I was entranced right from the start and Play Maker was a book that I could not put down.

James Martin, international football player ( don't call it soccer) has a bad rap with the tabloids and they dubbed him " The Play Maker" and all the blame does not fall on the paparazzi, he takes responsibility for being a ladies man and hooking up with some of the ladies. There is only one lady that he has no regrets for hooking up with, it may have started off as a one night stand that leads to another night and then another. For James, it has been the best sex and nights of his life and he can't seem to forget her or their time together and that leaves him wanting more. This funny, sexy slightly complicated lady stirs feelings in him that he has never felt before which leads him to want to walk away from her. Since it started off as just being about sex, she should be easy to forget ( that's what he thought).
There are secrets and with his mixed emotions, James is questioning this relationship and the next ventures in his life.

Nicole Grant, a bartender that has set up rules for herself so life would not get complicated. Nicole prefers one night stands, relationships are too much work and with her hours and her brother who she devotedly loves, she does not have the time and energy to be in a committed relationship. Nicole never expected James Martin to walk into the bar and complicate her life. he is everything she ever wanted and the sex is more than she ever expected, his touch could still be felt for days. Will Nicole be able to put the rules aside and put herself first for once in her life?

Play Maker is filled with hot steamy scenes that will have you wanting a cold shower.
What I loved most about it, it's also a story of family and how important Nicole's brother
Mikey is to her and her relationship with her mother that lead her to feel that she could
only trust herself. It's a story of finding love and allowing yourself to feel deserving of it and
be willing to do whatever you have to, to keep it. It is a must read and falling for James is
inevitable.


*** For Mature Readers***
Profile Image for Stacey.
1,446 reviews1,127 followers
February 1, 2018
description

Truth serum injected…I’ll give it to you straight.

***3.5 Stars***

This review is a wee bit spoilerish so proceed with caution

I nearly gave up on Play Maker. I started this story a little while back. The blurb sounded interesting and that cover certainly caught my attention. Unfortunately, when I started it, I met a couple of hussies and a manwhore who made a name for himself, based on his own transgressions…AND…the transgressions of a teammate who was MARRIED. Now, this teammate looked a little similar to our Play Maker and found it convenient to use this young bloke to cover his infidelities from his wife and two kids. My biggest problem was that the Play Maker DIDN’T MIND and thought it was funny. Now, I can hear all of you saying…”Oh my lordy Sassy, how did you go on?” Well, my lovelies, at first I couldn’t. I put that book down, took it off my currently reading list and moved onto happier and cleaner pastures. Then, I checked out my diary on Saturday and saw that I was supposed to have a review written on Monday. Oh, the dilemma… Do I give up? Do I skim the rest of the book and give a half arse review? -OR- Do I do the right thing and give it another chance? I had stopped at 24% which had sort of given it a fair go, sort of not. Would you believe it, yesterday I opened up my kindle read the next page and it was like I was reading another bloody book. The manwhore showed remorse, the two hussies started to see that one-night-stands weren’t always the best thing, and our two main characters actually stopped bumping uglies long enough to get to know each other. Doh!!

I may have given you a little too much information for an opening, but I know a lot of friends who would or could have been turned off at the beginning of this book. I’m really glad that I went on though.

James is a soccer/football star. The English team he plays for were in America to play an exhibition match kind of like what David Beckham did a few years back. They were there to play hard and also have a little fun. At the beginning, James came across as a bloke who liked his reputation and made sure to live up to it, but soon enough you realise that it’s all getting a little bit old and he’s ready for a change. One of the things he’s sick of his covering for his teammate. He hates that his mum sees him as an oversexed idiot who changes his women daily. Yes, he dates but definitely not as much as he is made out to be doing. James is also questioning how much longer he actually wants to play. All of these questions…and then he meets the sexiest woman he has ever laid eyes on.

Nicole is a bartender and she makes most of her money in tips. The best way to increase tips is to show your assets. Nicole has plenty of assets…and a nifty skill too. Now, the lovely Nicole enjoys bumping uglies but it must follow her rules of only one night and never the whole night. I couldn’t help but think Nicole was a wee bit too slutty. I didn’t like Nicole’s attitude to men who wanted more than one night and her belief that it was OK to lure men in with her looks, use them, then brush them off. We eventually get to know a little bit more about why Nicole is the way she is, her responsibilities and her main priority…her younger brother.

James and Nicole have a lot of chemistry but we don’t really see the connection form between the couple until later in the book. There are a few obstacles they must get past before they can even contemplate having a relationship. The biggest obstacle they must hurdle is they need to be honest with each other. Yep, communication is the key peoples.

I’m sorry if I’ve given too much information in my review, but I know that there will be people who may get turned off by the start of this story. I can confirm that it definitely improved. The characters grew on me and by the end, I loved the seeing this couple together. I enjoyed seeing their friends find happiness too. Another great part was seeing Nicole’s family grow closer, but also learn to have a little independence.

A wee bit of a negative for me was I think the author may have used some English terms while Nicole (who is American) is “talking”. The fact that she also never questioned when James used some obscure English terms also threw me a little.

The sexy times were steamy, the drama played out well even if it was a little predictable and the love story ended up being very sweet in the end.

I managed to turn my opinion around and in the end I finished Play Maker with a smile on my face.

To purchase Play Maker from Amazon - http://amzn.to/1X6wBDx

description

I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -


Profile Image for Sandra Shipman ~ Two Book Pushers.
2,079 reviews52 followers
May 29, 2016
***4.5 Stars***

Play Maker is the second book I have read by Katie McCoy and it was everything I expected. Fun, sexy, and leaving me wanting more. Now, on to the story of a hot soccer star from across the pond and his sexy bartender...

Nicole doesn't do relationships. She gives the man one night and one night only. She and her best friend, Maya made this rule years ago and they have never broken the rules. Maya might only have this one rule but Nicole has a few more because she has more than just her to think about. Her brother, Mikey is her number one priority and so far there hasn't been a man to understand that. This is one of the reasons why the rule was set in place. To protect herself and Mikey from heartache. She never wanted to break the rules until he came into her life. James. A sexy as fuck soccer player with a British accent to bring her to her knees...

James got the nickname "Play Maker" for a reason. His reputation as being a playboy. He loves the bad girls even though his mom would love for him to find a nice girl. But they don't get him. He can't be himself around the good girls. He understand the bad girls and what they want. He wants the same thing. One night. And he thought he found the perfect one for tonight except he wants more. She was too perfect for him. He couldn't stop thinking about the one woman that ran out the door as soon as she got what they wanted. Can he get her to make a one night stand into more? And will he understand that Mikey is the most important man in her world?

James and Nicole are seriously hot! They definitely bring on the heat. They are from two different worlds that unite in the best of ways and not just between the sheets. James also has some life-changing decisions to make that could change everything. How will Nicole react when she finds out who the real James is? Will she run for the hills or into his arms?

I thought this book was awesome. Nicole has no shame in her game and James is damn fine. I also liked their best friends and the rest of characters. I do wish we got to know the main ones on a deeper level but I understood them enough to love them. Together and apart.

Overall...it was fun, sexy, and fast read.

P.S. Will Nicole ever get to try the better than sex waffles?

Quotes:

One look and I was ready to get on my knees in front of him and pledge allegiance to Queen and country. And do a few other, less noble things while I was down there.

This was no Cinderella story –he wasn’t a prince looking for a poor girl to save and I definitely wasn’t a poor girl looking for a prince.

“When it comes to entrances like that, you’ve really got to stick the landing.”

Profile Image for Wil Loves Books!.
1,561 reviews484 followers
December 30, 2022
This is overall a super cute book. Once again, I love the hero way more than the heroine. At times, I found it hard to connect with her although she was pretty great with her brother. The hero is just awesome, sexy and British. The book has some great hot moments and some super funny dialogue. If you love sports romances, I definitely recommend this one.
Profile Image for Laura.
2,587 reviews113 followers
June 20, 2016
***ARC Provided by Social Butterfly PR***

Review Originally Posted on I'm A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore:
http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore....

This is, oddly enough, the first book by Katie McCoy that I have read. She has been around for a while, and I am fairly certain I have at least one of her books on my Kindle, so I have absolutely no idea how this has happened. That said, this will not be my last. And, I am a little bit annoyed that I waited this long to read her writing.

I liked the characters, I thought James was charming and I believed the character, his motivations and his characterization in the story. There were not parts where I thought he acted in a way that did not work for how he had been portrayed. I liked Nicole. I liked that she was willing to be true to herself and what she thought she wanted, that she had her priorities in her life and that she had put the people around her into the places she thought they belonged. I liked that, as the book progressed, she learned that people can evolve and change, that maybe the box she had placed that person in before was no longer the box they now fit into.

The “slut code” made me laugh. In fact, the whole book made me laugh. This isn’t going to matter to a lot of people, but thank you to an author not from Los Angeles who didn’t write the city as the worst place ever. I get a little tired of authors who have clearly never been to Los Angeles writing about the city using a set of rules and stereotypes.

This book was funny, it was lighthearted and it was fun. But at the same time, it also had depth, substance and something to say, which is not the easiest thing to balance effectively.

Overall, I recommend this book. Off to see what else I have by Katie MyCoy on my Kindle.
Profile Image for Nancy❤The❤Bookaholic.
1,179 reviews142 followers
July 12, 2016
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4 SOCCER/FOOTBALL STARS

So I heard about this book after finishing Man Candy by Melanie Harlow. The sneak peek chapter lured me in and took hold of me and I had to go one-click it. I'm glad I did because it was a fantastic read.
description
James & Nicole was great together. They both have strict"rules" they followed on one-night stands. James is a famous British football "soccer" player that's in the USA for a game and Nicole is a bartender that works at the hotel James is staying. They meet when the hotel bar hosts a party for the team.
description
Nicole is on a bit of a dry spell and when she's informed about the party the bar is hosting, she's out to find great tips and a hot one night stand. When she meets James she automatically knows there's something different about him but she keeps her guard up and following her one-night stand rules. These rules are put in place to protect her.
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1) Always use protection
2) Never go down on a guy unless he went down on me first
3) Never go to their house and never stay the night.

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Straight forward enough rules right?! Well, James is going to test her self appointed rules. I love the characters and the supporting characters. I'm hoping Nicole's BFF, Maya gets her own book. If you're looking for a fantastic, low drama, a book that makes your heart melt with an HEA then go out and grab Play Maker.
Profile Image for ✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ .
2,332 reviews1,342 followers
June 6, 2016

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British Football-star James and his team are in Los Angeles to make soccer a bit more famous in the US. And he might just stay, because he's been thinking of retiring from official european football.

Also - this very hot bartender at his hotel could be someone to make him want to stay.

Nicole is working her ass off to make enough money for herself and her adorable Doctor Who addict little brother. Mikey is already 20, but he has Down Syndrome, so he needs Nicole to be there for him.

That's why Nicole only has time for One-Night Stands. Every relationship she ever had didn't last long once they saw that Mikey is the most important person in her life.

That's why working at that hotel is perfect for her. Lots of hot guys to spend a night with - and only ONE night.

But somehow this hot, tattoed soccer, uhm sorry, football player, makes her want more...

But that's impossible, right? He'll run fast and far once he finds out about Mikey...right????

WHAT WiLL HAPPEN TO NICOLE & JAMES???
WiLL THERE BE A HEA???
WiLL THERE BE A CLiFFHANGER???

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Nope - I'm not telling you ☺

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I loved James & Nicole - and Mikey and Maya and Ethan. Great cast!


James - the guy who seems to have it all. Money, fame, women, a great future. And Nicole, the poor big sister who is struggling to make ends meet ... They're just perfect for each other.

This story was very adorable and sexy and funny and serious and just perfectly enjoyable!

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PLAY MAKER was an adorable & sexy 'Football-Player-meets-hot-bartender' romance! About a guy and a girl and her little brother, and how they fight to get their HEA-family! ♥


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Profile Image for Polly.
686 reviews244 followers
June 7, 2016
4 stars

What a cute book!

James is visiting America for a soccer (football) exhibition game. He has a reputation that he's only partly earned.

Nicole is a bar tender that has a special needs brother to look after.

Needless to say neither of them look for commitment. Having one night stands is their MO. Until their one night just isn't enough.

I really liked this one. There wasn't any angst or extra drama. It was super hot. This author knows how to write a sex scene.

My only critique is that Nicole was a little hard to swallow in the first couple of chapters. Her "slut code" was a little too much for me.

*arc provided for honest review*
**The Review Loft**
Profile Image for Raj.
750 reviews64 followers
June 8, 2016
This book is as safe as locking your heart inside of a velvet lined carved wooden box & throwing it into the depths of the ocean.And when you feel an itch to retrieve it,it's simply an easy swim to the bottom as there are no sharks nor ten tentacled monsters in sight.

Plainly speaking despite a man eater meeting a man whore the insides of this novel is strangely devoid of ow/om drama.So if a calm sea floats your boat than jump aboard this one.
Profile Image for Mandy.
1,559 reviews235 followers
Read
June 12, 2016
DNF at 18% -- Didn't like any of the characters in this one - maybe I'm just bitchy today but this book was not working for me at all.
Profile Image for Jessica Alcazar.
4,394 reviews622 followers
June 8, 2019
First impressions right off the bat ..... what am I reading right now??!!

*SIGH* ... okay so the book was well written and developed over all, but as far as likeable characters ... no, but maybe LOL

Here's what happened .... so I start to read this book and these guys have no redeeming qualities what so ever and then they do. That was odd. Like honest to God, I don't think the unreedeming parts were even necessary ... (I know I sound crazy right now, but I'm not going to give you any of the plot).

Okay, so when I start to take notes for my review, I start thinking of the book only AFTER (whoring run amok) the unreedemimg has occurred and people are just normal (lol) again .. and guess what? It's a damn good book! It's funny and sexy and it also had purpose. So then I start to think back to the beginning with the introduction to all the players in this book and I think ... well, i'll be damned, James and Nicole only make sense if what happens that I disliked happens ... and the story ends up quite sweet lol

SO, do I recommend it? YES ... but if you can't read without prejudice, you might not make it past the first few chapters ... just sayin (but you really should, cuz this was a really fun sweet story lol)

Copy provided for blog tour review
Profile Image for Kimberly (Kimmy Loves to Read).
1,071 reviews13 followers
July 29, 2016
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I love soccer. It is one of my favorite sports and it makes me so happy that authors are writing more books about soccer players. I read Katie's previous books and really enjoyed them, so I was excited to see that she was wrote this one and I was more than willing to read it!

Nicole is a hotel bartender who works to support her and her autistic brother. She never sleeps with a guy more than once and she sticks to that rule. James is a professional soccer player whose nickname is the "Play Maker" thanks to his moves both on and off the field. These two are absolute pros at one night stands and from the moment they meet, it is inevitable that they are going to be spending the night together. The sexual tension between them was about as thick as it can get and I couldn't wait to see what happened between them. And WOW...what a night it was. Turns out they enjoyed it so much, that they decide to do it again. But remember, neither of them "do relationships." Right.

I loved Nicole's relationship with her brother Mikey. She has been taking care of him for a while now and they are very close. Mike loves Doctor Who (This is second book I have read recently that featured Doctor Who and I am liking it! Keep it up authors!) and the two spend lots of time rewatching episodes and talking about them. Mikey has specific needs that Nicole has to attend to and everything she does, she does for him. While the men in Nicole's past couldn't handle the fact that Mikey came first in her life, James embraces it an makes sure to include him when he can. And the two connected (Thanks to James' appearance in a Doctor Who special) on a level that not even Nicole was expecting...talk about swoonworthy.

As James and Nicole spend more time together, it is obvious that they like each other and even though they are continually breaking their self imposed rules, they just can't seem to stop. They enjoy each other both in and out of the bedroom. One of my favorite moments in the book was when Nicole got to see him play in a game. She got to see another side of him and it definitely worked in his favor:
The game began and I strained forward in my seat, looking for James among the players that rushed onto the field. It took a moment before I spotted him and damn, he looked good. I had seen him in jeans and shirt, in a suit, but I had never seen him in his uniform. It made me want to stand up and cheer. Which I did, because that’s what everyone else was doing. But probably not for the same reason.

I was especially fond of the shorts, which showed off his amazing legs, his muscles flexing with each step. His jersey made the most of his broad shoulders and narrow waist, his tattoos peeking out from the sleeves. And that smile. It seemed to light up the whole damn place.

He jogged across the field, waving at the crowd. He was so incredibly sexy. As was the confidence with which he handled the ball.

The game began and I was spellbound. James sped across the field, the ball a blur between his feet. The mechanics of it seemed otherworldly, how could he move so quickly and gracefully and get a ball from one end of the field to the other? I surged to my feet, cheering with the crowd as the ball he kicked sliced through the air and slammed into the goal’s net. They played hard and I could see the sweat along James’ forehead as he raced across the field, maneuvering around other players, the ball an extension of his feet. He controlled it so effortlessly, the only indication of his concentration was the expression on his face. The only time I had seen him so focused was when we were together. Doing other things that worked up a sweat.

“He’s really good, isn’t he?”
Yes, yes he is. And on so many levels.

As a couple, James and Nicole were amazing. In the beginning, their relationship was purely physical, but it didn't take long for it to turn into something very real. Sure, they had a extremely smokin' sex life, but they also connected in a way that neither of them had experienced before and that scared both of them. Then add on the fact that James is coming to a crossroads in his career and has to decide how he wants to proceed and whether or not he wants Nicole to be a part of that post soccer life and you got yourself an awesome book!
Profile Image for Mal ✨ | Tales Of A Bookbug.
685 reviews46 followers
June 6, 2016
Review:In this sexy, new read by Katie McCoy we have Nicole Grant- a bartender at a hotel bar and James Martin-an international soccer star dubbed "The Play Maker" by the media because of his reputation with the ladies.Nicole and her coworker Maya don't do relationships.They just have one-night stands.Nicole doesn't have the time for a relationship and none of her exes ever understood why her little brother was the most important thing in her life.

And as cliche as it is, James has never found a woman who wasn't interested in him beyond just a fling.James and Nicole have off-the-charts chemistry and after one of the hottest nights his life, Nicole leaves making it clear she doesn't want more than one night.So obviously, James is intrigued and detrmined to chase her.;)

He methodically woos her and manages to break down her walls.He even manages to capture her brother Mikey's(who has Down Dyndrome) affection.Nicole also doesn't resist the attraction too much and decides to give him a chance.She has had a difficult life as she had to grow up early to take care of Mikey, when their mom abandoned them.Her mom is back now and Nicole isn't just that ready to forgive her yet.There is also a little drama added due to James' repuation(which may or may not be just his).

The story was cute and sexy with funny moments.Nicole's ability to guess people's drinks was fascinating.Her relationship with Maya and their deal to call dibs on guys based on who hadn't had sex in the longest time was hilarious!!The love that she had for Mikey was really sweet.James and his friend Ethan were also amazing characters.In conclusion, get this book if you're looking for a sexy read with amazing relationships and very less angst!!

Enter here for a chance to win a $15 Amazon Gift Card!! :)
Profile Image for Shaunna.
361 reviews44 followers
July 8, 2016
Play Maker is as good as Game On was! Just the right amount of sweet, sexy and angst. The pacing was perfect, and the characters were believable. I particularly enjoyed Nicole's relationship with her family and how that shaped her approach to her love life.

A fun, light read, perfect on a lazy summer day or a hot summer night!
Profile Image for Chu.
1,459 reviews72 followers
June 6, 2016
Nicole Grant wasn’t the commitment type – heck no. She has a lot on her plate, and the only thing she can offer to someone was a night or two, no strings, no commitments, no cuddling and no sleepovers. She doesn’t do complicated, her life is way more than that. She has a brother to care for.

James Martin’s reputation precedes him. He’s not only a good soccer player on the field, it is also rumored that he was one heck of a player off the field too. Who can resist someone as hot as James? Certainly not Nicole. One explosive night with him was not enough. So when one night stand becomes two, then becomes three, and then becomes something else, things are different. James offered the world at her feet, and for the first time, someone was taking care of her and not the other way around.

Would Nicole be willing to risk her heart for someone she wasn’t sure staying? Can he accept her and her baggage?

You’d love them both – they’re amazing, but not perfect. They have their own shortcomings, but totally forgivable considering how great they are. I mean, Nicole could just drop the responsibility and get on with her life – enjoy every moment of it, and yet she chose to stay and take care of her brother. He was important to her and it was the only thing that she won’t compromise. As for James, he understood, and he will do everything to have the girl. He has a big heart, big enough for her family. He knew how important they are to her, and he was willing to compromise – how freaking incredible is that?! He knew how to break the wall that surrounded her heart.

I enjoyed reading this book – the sex was mind-blowing, but the characters are just as interesting as well, and I’m not just talking about the main characters. The supporting characters are pretty much fascinating to. It was fun, exciting, and I love watching James trying to win our girl over. He knew how to woo her totally! If you would love to read a book that’s sexy, not that heavy and totally entertaining – you need to give this one a try.

This is my first Katie McCoy read, and I’m sure it won’t be my last.

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Review originally posted on my blog

Purchase Links: http://amzn.to/1UlYMIq

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Profile Image for Jo - •.★Reading Is My Bliss★.•.
2,429 reviews238 followers
June 9, 2016
Nicole has a complicated, busy life. She bartends at night, is putting herself through college, caring for her brother and basically just lives week to week. Her tip jar at work determines whether or not the cheese macaroni she has for dinner at home has hot dogs in it or not. When it comes to taking care of her brother, nothing is more important to her. She has made many sacrifices in her young life to give him the best life she is able to.

Therefore, love and relationships are completely off her life goals. One night stands are the only type of ‘relationship’ she does and it truly is only for one night. She has a set of rule she follows to ensure that she protects not just her own heart but her brother’s happiness as well. Meeting a hot british football player was not something she saw coming and she had no idea how much it was going to change her life.

James Martin is a well known football player but he seems to be more well know for being the ‘Play Maker’ – the ultimate player who is always in the tabloids, photographed next to beautiful women. He meets Nicole working behind the bar of the hotel is is staying at and they have an extremely passionately hot one night stand. Both of them are highly affected by each other but Nicole must follow her rules and pretty much flees as fast as she can.

Neither of these two can stop thinking about each other and the desire is simmering away until it pretty much gets too much to bear. Rules are made be broken right? One more night can’t hurt….. okay well maybe three nights, or four… Pretty soon lines are getting blurred and the rule book seems to be put on the shelf.

James can’t figure out why Nicole is resisting what she feels and he is completely wrapped up in thoughts of her. Nicole is feeling really confused about everything and feels like she is being pulled in all sorts of directions.

I absolutely loved this, it wasn’t too angsty, it was sweet, romantic and the sexy times were smoking hot. There were also really cute adorable moments between James and Nicole’s family that were so damn cute!
Profile Image for Tricia Bartley.  #AuthorStalker.
1,299 reviews104 followers
June 3, 2016
Play Maker!!!!! Ohhh goooooodnessss...This book was a lot of fun, loved the story, loved the characters, loved all the banter and LOVED all The HAWTNESSS!!! It was sooo good!!

James-The famous, sexy-as hell, British playboy!!

Nicole-the bartender who was behind on her school loans and takes care of her brother.


James and Nicole are both Players!!! Of course he is since he is a international soccer player-all the women swoon over this boy and ALL want to take him to bed!!! Nicole is a bartender with a bangin body and she has a Rules that she goes by...She only does one night stands, never lets the guys get clingy and NEVER lets them spend the night or take them home. Sooo......

He's the perfect one night stand. One night stands were one night. That was the rule. No repeats. No Exceptions!!

James can't get Nicole out of his head. She's funny and she's irresistible. Nicole can't get James off her mind. He's good hearted and he's sexy. Will their standoff end in a draw, or can this one night stand kick off something real?


You will also just love..love Nicole's BFF-Maya, she is a hoot!!! She really adds to the story and makes you really enjoy reading this book that much more!! Ohhh and after reading this book, you will want to go make you some Waffles..lol You just wait and see.. : )

I gave this book 5 iScream Books Stars!! This was my first book by Katie McCoy and I really enjoyed reading her book!! Can't you tell? lol It will definitely will not be my last..And goodness, severe Cover Lust going on with this Authors books..goodness... lol Play Maker Releases on June 6, 2016!!! Make sure you pick this sexy little read up!!! : )
Profile Image for Keeana Estrada.
Author 15 books148 followers
June 5, 2016
Holy hotness!!! This book was sexy, hot, captivating, and oh so delicious, Katie, has out done her self yet again. I need a cold shower after, this book has so much steam, it will leave your panties wet!!!

Smoldering, sizzling, and sinfully, hot this book is on fire from page one. James, and Nicole will leave your hearts beating fast and your woman parts feeling moist!!!!

These two had some seriously hot off the charts chemistry, the characters and their development were very well written. I enjoyed the character growth this book just wowed me!!!

This Is a must read trust me. YOu will need a fan to cool down. Great job Katie, I cannot wait for more of your fantastic work!!


ARC recieved on behalf of Bookaliciousbabesblog!!!
Profile Image for Jazmyne [Ramblings of a Bookworm].
528 reviews13 followers
May 29, 2016
James is “The Play Maker.” He’s a football (soccer) star who the tabloids exploit at every scandalous turn. He’s often found in the attendance of multiple girls within just one week! Needless to say, finding female company has never been a problem, just as leaving that company behind has always been just as easy.

Nicole is a bartender. She and fellow bartender, Maya, believe in uncomplicated liaisons, lasting barely the night, and allowing them to never form complicated strings to anyone. Life is simple for all of them.

Until a VIP party at the bar involving several ruggedly handsome football (soccer) players, some well-timed flirting, and the perfect drink recommendation lead to … more.

This book was a great exploration into trust. Both Nicole and James lack the desire to trust in another person. Those they have allowed into their lives have demonstrated their trust, but several before them have broken enough trust that it has caused them to not allow it to be resurrected in another. As they spend more time together, they realize that each of them is more vulnerable than they had thought.

My favorite character though, was Mikey. Nicole’s little brother, there is so much about him that makes him interesting and unique. I can’t specifically explain why he is the best, but let me say that I’m SO VERY EXCITED to see this character in the story. Also the relationship between Mikey & Nicole is beautiful.

This book was funny, touched my heart, and also brought light to some issues that are near to my heart. The writing style was good, characters interesting, and the dialogue wasn’t boring. I can’t wait to read more involving these characters *wink, wink*
Profile Image for Peggy Lee (Reading Keeps Me Sane).
1,039 reviews41 followers
June 5, 2016
This is a steamy romance about two individuals who are at a tipping point in both their lives. Nicole Grants puts dibs on James Martin and from their first sparks fly.

"One night stands were one night. That was the rule. No repeats. No Exceptions."

Nicole is a strong, independent heroine. She's take on a world of responsibility by committing herself to her disabled brother. She's also committed to the Slut Code, she will not go beyond a one night stand, to not only to protect her heart but to protect her brother. Nicole by far is one of my favorite heroines because she's fiercely protective and because she's put the needs of her brother beyond her own. My heart hurts for her when she tries to find a happy middle ground between her family loyalness and her own happiness.

James, a football/soccer idol, is dubbed the Play Maker because of his antics off the field not on it. He receives a little help from his friend to achieve his Play Maker status. James is ready to make some life altering changes and his one night stand with a sexy bartender only solidifies his decision. Now can he convince Nicole that he wants more than a one night stand?

The character development is swift and well written. I enjoyed the turning point for both characters. The conflict is easily presumed from the beginning of the story which was a little bit of a let down. I had been hoping for the conflict to be slightly more unexpected. However characters do shine and make the story a heart warming romance none the less. 4 Stars!
Profile Image for Monique Tinline.
399 reviews
June 5, 2016
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AMAZING... I loved this book. Such a fun, hot, sexy, fun loving book.
Nicole isn't keen to commit, nope she is happy with her one night stands, why take on all the extra trouble, why not just have all the fun and walk out the door, with the responsibility of a special needs sibling, a man to loose herself in for a few hours is all she needs.
James is the hottest thing on the football field (also known as soccer over here in aus ) his the play maker to the tabloids, but is he?
These 2 hit it off and sparks fly, sheets could disintegrate, there easy fun loving attitudes was so enjoyable to read. I loved the easy banter between them both and the sweet sensitive one they both had.
I seriously didn’t want it to end, I could keep reading about these two for days.
Profile Image for Annamaria.
702 reviews11 followers
June 4, 2016
Five Amazing Stars! James is here in America for an exhibition soccer game, he does not believe in girlfriends, just one night stands. Nicole doesn't do relationships because she has had her share of bad relationships and she takes care of her brother with Down Syndrome. Until she meets James one night while she was working in the hotel bar. What will happen to them since he is a one night stand man and she usually does do relationships? Can they be happy together? The author writes a story that blends romance and comedy that will keep you turning the pages. I thoroughly loved this story and the characters had great chemistry. This book is one you do not want to miss out on! Highly recommend!

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.

Plot: 5
Chemistry: 5+
Pacing: 5
Ending: 5
Character Development: 5
Profile Image for Molly.
178 reviews40 followers
June 10, 2016
Oh, I love Katie McCoy's heroes. They're the best. If they're not volunteering at animal shelters, they're baking brownies or donating their time to charity.

This was really cute, but I was a little taken aback during the whole "slut code" phase during the first quarter of the book. Just because you don't a want a relationship and have casual sex doesn't make you slutty. Own it, girl! Don't do that whole negative-self-talk thing.

I also liked that there was clear knowledge of MLS, exhibition games against big name European teams, etc.

When I finished reading the book, I'm pretty sure I said, "well, that was adorable!" out loud.
Profile Image for Nadine.
739 reviews103 followers
July 27, 2016
Nicole has casual encounters with men as she feels too invested in caring for her little brother, but then what supposed to be a one night stand turns into more.

This book had so much going for it, a great hero, steamy scenes, an adorable little brother, a general light feeling to it, not too much drama... and still... It never quite won me over, things seemed too perfect a lot of times and I had my problems with the way Nicole acted in the beginning.

It is a nice and fast read, but quite forgettable I think.
Profile Image for Preet.
3,381 reviews233 followers
June 6, 2016
Full review coming shortly!
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