Playing Pretend

by Juliana Haygert

Librarian's Note: This is an alternate-cover edition for ISBN 9781495211034

**New extended (13,000 more words) and re-edited version!** (Oct/2016)

As the Governor’s daughter, Charlotte McClain is an expert in playing pretend. High society, the men her mother shoves in her direction and a Pre-Law major are all a part of her perfect pretense. But when she pretends to be a nobody during Spring Break, she meets someone who rocks her world. Mason Rowell knows heartbreak and Spring Break don’t mesh well, so he allows the mysterious Charlotte to seduce him. What should have been a fling, results in something deeper. After Spring Break has long since passed, he moves to Washington to pursue his graduate degree, but what he never expected to find living among the rich and pompous, was the girl who gave him the strength to change and the desire to start anew. When the guy Charlotte can’t forget goes from a sensual memory to temptation in the flesh, her facade is put to the test. If she surrenders to his charms, she risks ruining her mother’s perfect career and master plan. Playing pretend is what Charlotte does best, but how long can she pretend she doesn't love the man who made her proud of her true self?

**A light, sexy NA Contemporary Romance (17+)**

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary, College, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks, Amazon

272 pages, Paperback

First published February 25, 2014

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author.

While Juliana Haygert dreams of being Wonder Woman, Buffy, or a blood elf shadow priest, she settles for the less exciting—but equally gratifying—life of a wife, mother, and author. She resides in North Carolina and spends her days writing about kick-ass heroines and the heroes who drive them crazy.

Want to know about announcement, events, cover reveals, and other fun stuff related to my writing and my books? Sign up for my newsletter: bit.ly/JuHNL

Reviews

[Anatea Oroz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is also posted on my blog, Anatea's Bookshelf.

Playing Pretend is a quick and pretty enjoyable read. The title is catchy and I got interested in this book pretty quickly. I always loved books and movies that deal with this subject - pretending.

Charlotte decides to have an amazing Spring Break and forget about her demanding and controlling mother. When she meets Mason, she sets clear rules. It is only for the duration of Spring Break and no personal information, not even the last name. But what she doesn't expect is to start caring for someone is such a little time frame, and what she expects even less is to see Mason in Washington, going to the college near her.

Having parents who are important, well known and famous people, exposed to the media, is never easy. They always have some expectations, some rules, some demands that you have to follow. Being raised to follow those things, it is not always easy to stand up for yourself. It is always a struggle. Charlotte's mother is a Governor with high expectations and strict rules. As long as Charlotte does everything her mother wishes, everything is fine, but Charlotte doesn't feel that way. She pretends every day to be someone she isn't, but that changes when she meets Mason. He likes her for who she is and not because of her money or her mother's status. He makes her question herself and what she really wants. He encourages her to stand up for herself.

The both characters in this book are very dear to me. Charlotte because she is strong and you can see how she learns to stick up for herself, and Mason, just because he is such a sweetheart. The romance was sweet and didn't feel rushed at any moment. I enjoyed the natural flow of it.

Overall, I really enjoyed Playing Pretend. If you are a fan of New Adult romance novels, I recommend you to give this one a try.

Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

[books are love · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute book. I love Mason. He is so sweet and wonderful. Cute as a button and David his roommate was kind. Mason's brother Matt was sweet as well. I loved seeing the interactions between Mason, his best friend and his brother they were to cute.

So Mason meets this girl during her spring break and she changes his perspective. All he knows is her first name but little did he know what those six days with her would do to his world. He gets over the cheating skuzzball Tamara and starts to move on. To do this he goes to graduate school in DC. Little does he know this change will rock his world upside down and make it topsy turvy.

When he gets there, he gets a gig to work a political function and who magically appears looking magically delicious--his six day spring breaker Charlotte except now he finds out who she is. Kicker is he doesn't care because she has taken his heart. The boy has it bad and so does she. Charlotte however doesn't figure it out as fast as Mason does. Mason just is afraid she will run so he keeps it close to the vest. One problemo- Charlotte's mom and her date Donnie. Charlotte's mom is the governor of Va and would not approve of Mason No way no how in fact she is pushing the union of Charlotte to Donnie. So Charlotte feeling guilt from something her dad said to her walks away from Mason. Except she can't stop thinking about him even once tries to find him.

What is kismut though is they keep running into each other. Once at the national mall when he is with his best friend and brother and another time at GWU. Mason convinces her to give him a chance in secret and she jumps into the rabbit hole. This rabbit hole though is wonderful. Mason treats her so kindly and with patience and understanding. Wanting to know Charlotte and not wanting the connections or the money. Charlotte feels the same about mason she just wants to know him. Little do they know the bubble will burst and when it does Charlotte crushes Mason and doesn't even let him talk to her and explain.

Poor Mason all he wanted was Charlotte not the complications. heck he even let himself be the secret boyfriend. Hidden in the shadows like a shameful secret. This didn't matter to him though because he was with Charlotte. such a gem Mason is. When Charlotte won't talk to him David helps him take matters in his own hands and prove her wrong. Though Charlotte doesn't get back to him. It is up to her fun friend Lianna and his faithful roommate David to push these two in gear.

Liana and David I think should get together. What they do for these to is wonderful as is this quirky story.

A story about finding yourself and the courage to stand up to others to gain acceptance and love. A story about love and it's ability to forgive and show kindness. A fun quirky sweet read.

[Juliana]

Available now!

Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iBooks | Createspace


A note for my readers:

Hello there! I’m very happy that you want to read (and hopefully review) Playing Pretend. I know a bunch of you are picking up Playing Pretend because you read and enjoyed Breaking the Reins . I need to warn you, though: Playing Pretend is VERY different from Breaking the Reins. Playing Pretend is on a much lighter note, it doesn’t involve many serious issues like Breaking the Reins does, and it’s sexier. Oh, and shorter! Even so, it was fun writing it and I hope you enjoy it! :)


First pic teaser:



Second pic teaser:



:)

[Laura Hampton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have recently had the opportunity to read several books by author's that I have not had a chance to get to yet. Juliana Haygery is another one of those authors. She has written several books and I now need to find some time in my crazy schedule to read more of her work. I really liked the premise of this story. It was a quick and refreshing read. It had a story line that I had not read about before and that made it that more appealing to me.

Charlotte McClain is living the life that her mother the governor wants. When she gets the chance to go away for spring break with her real friends, she jumps at the chance to fabricate a story that will keep her mother happy and out of her plans. A week away from her mother and few thousand miles between them is just what Charlotte needs to let herself enjoy life for a change. For once she doesn't have to spend time with the proper, political, social people that her mother makes her surround herself with. She now gets to spend a week enjoying time with her three best friends and make some memories that will hopefully get her through the hell that her life is once she is home.
Enter Mason Rowell, local bartender and college student who knows just how to give Charlotte the time of her life. With no strings attached they embark on a week long sexcapade, but can they keep their personal lives to themselves? Charlotte is all about secrecy, even though she wants to have a good time.

Mason Rowell is just coming off a terrible breakup when he meets Charlotte McCain. She is just what he thinks he needs to get over his rotten recent breakup. With a week filled of sun, sand and plenty of hot sex he thinks he has just about gotten his ex out of his system, but when he wants to know more about Charlotte it starts to complicate things. At the end of their week together he can't help but wonder who she truly is and if he will ever see her again.

I really liked both Charlotte and Mason's characters. It seems that fate had its hand in throwing these two together even from across the country. I loved how persistent Mason was to get Charlotte to spend time with him and the fact that he was willing to keep it a secret for her. I hated the fact that Charlotte's mother was so damn controlling and that Charlotte could or would not stand up to her. But in a word where politics and social status rule, I can see where she felt that she had no choice but to do, say and act like her mother wanted. At the same time I hated that Charlotte could not be the person that she truly wanted too.

I highly recommend Playing Pretend if you are looking for a quick, sweet, sex read. It is well written and fairly fast paced. It flows well and sucks you in from the first chapter. I look forward to reading more of Haygert's work in the future.

[Cristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charlotte McClain is the daughter of Peyton McClain, a Governor who will be running for president in a few years! Due to her high society life, Charlotte is supposed to do everything right or her mother's reputation will go south! But Charlotte is a free spirit! She loves to roller skate and to draw with chalk. But during Spring Break, Charlotte only wanted to be herself, her true self! And that's when she met Mason.

Mason is a simple guy who fell hard for Charlotte even when they only knew each other for one week! When spring Break was over, Charlotte had to go back to her "fake life"! But as if it was not enough for her, her mother was always shoving her into Donnie. A high society young man who was going to focus is career in politics! Something that Charlotte always hated!

When she went to a party with Donnie, she was not expecting for Mason to be there too! Yes! Because Mason moved to another city to start his master degree and Charlotte was there too! They couldn't deny their feelings for each other, so they came up with a plan! Will they be able to be together in spite of the restrictions of Charlotte's life?

The plot is quite adorable and the characters have such particular personalities that it's impossible not to like them! Except for two of them that really got on my nerves! But overall, it's a easy reading with a story's development that was quite fast paced! Such a surprise!

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was given this book for an honest review from the author.

I thought the story was really cute. There were something things, I felt were left unsaid about the main characters of the book. I also was, a little annoyed with Charlotte, how she couldn't stand up to her mother, who was the Governor of Washington. She controlled her daughter's life and she lead a double life because her mother was looking out for what was best for her. The things Charlotte's mother wants for her, Charlotte doesn't want, likes or even agrees with, but Charlotte continued to lie to her to have the life she wants for herself. She lies about a relationship she has with a guy name Mason, because she knows her mother won't approve of. Charlotte clicks with Mason, he's not like those men her mother tries to set her up with. He has no political standing, just your average Joe. Charlotte's friend Liana, I really liked. She helped her with issues with her mother and encouraged and gave advice to her when she needed it the most.

It was a really cute story.

[Pupuce · Rating 2 out of 5]

Started it. Stopped. Started it again...and so on.
I finished it because I don't like to not finish reading a book I started... Some will like it, the story didn't do it for me. I couldn't really relate to the characters even though they were fun and nice...

[Gabbie (Rampant Readers) · Rating 4 out of 5]

favorite quotes
“Mason and I—we had something special, I knew this. He knew this. And he was pretty special. And kind. And attentive. And handsome. And hot.”
“I squeezed his hand, then let go because one touch would become a caress, a caress would ignite the fire in me, and we would end up in bed. I really wanted to sleep with him again, but he wanted to be my boyfriend, not my boy toy. Truth be told, I liked this.”
plot

“I turned to Mason and bit my lower lip. His brows shot up. ‘Hmm, what’s with the naughty look?’ I took another step into the ocean. ‘I know!’ He offered me a smile of his own. ‘You’re a mermaid. That’s why you’re entering the water. Are you going to leave me now?’ I laughed, and then kicked the water and showered him. Mason gasped, pretending to be shocked. ‘Oh, you’re going down.’”
Playing Pretend follows Governor’s daughter, Charlotte McClain as she spends her spring break in California without her mother knowing. Charlotte’s mother has her on a tight leash so that she doesn’t ruin her image. So in an act of rebellion, Charlotte journey’s to California with her real friends, telling her mother that she is in Canada with who her mother thinks is her ‘best friend’. While in California, Charlotte meets Mason, and they hit it off. But they have a rule–no learning about each other, and when spring break is over, it’s over. But coincidentally, after summer, Mason moves to Washington, not knowing that Charlotte lives just miles away. After chance meetings, Mason becomes determined to win her over, no matter what her mother says.

This novel was light and funny. It kept me entertained with its cute characters and mild conflict. It wasn’t too heavy, and it was fun to read. But it wasn’t too light: there was still conflict, so it wasn’t a meaningless plot. It was the perfect combination of a lazy day read.

Leading lady

Charlotte was suppressed, and I cheered for joy when she finally stood up for herself. Unfortunately, I could understand why she remained her mother’s puppet for so long, but that doesn’t mean I wasn’t happy when she finally told her mother off. Charlotte really grew a backbone in this novel, starting from the beginning with the spring break trip. It was nice to see her do something that she loved instead of what her mother told her to do. I love seeing characters finally come to say no to other overbearing characters.

leading male

“He snuggled in the booth with me, his arm over my shoulders, holding me close. I looked up at him, trying to etch every detail of him in my mind. His chiseled jaw, his chin, his cheekbones, his sift lips, his cute nose, the long lashed over his hypnotizing hazel eyes, the black hair framing his face in a planned-disheveled manner. He was beautiful. More than that, he made me feel good; he made me feel loved. With him, I could be the person behind the façade and still be okay.”
Mason was determined. With his own story, he also had some things to get over. But what he knew for sure was that he was going to get Charlotte. And he worked and worked until he did. His determination was one of my favorite qualities about him. On top of that, he wasn’t perfect; he had some relationship and family problems to deal with. But he was funny and joking and just over all adorable and cute.

other characters

I enjoyed reading about Charlotte’s friends and their relationship. They were really her support line with her mother always peering over her shoulder, even though her mother didn’t know about her. I love that they were still there for her, and that she didn’t listen to her mother and remained friends with them anyway.

romance

“‘You know what I think?’ He didn’t wait for my answer and said, ‘That we’ll keep meeting like this, unintentionally. You know why? Because we should be together.’ I crossed my arms. ‘Don’t tell me you believe in destiny, karma, or fairy tales.’ ‘I guess I don’t, but it’s kinda hard to deny. Look at us. We’ve met thousands of miles away, had the most amazing time together, then, out of nowhere, here we are, crossing each other’s paths.’”
The romance in this novel was one of those cute, under the radar, secret romances for the second half the novel. I loved the thrill of it. I kept waiting for them to get caught, but I was not expecting it to happen the way that it did. And add in the fact that there was another guy that Charlotte’s mother wanted her to go out with? It was like a subdued love triangle. Sure, you obviously knew who Charlotte wanted, but there were complications that kept things interesting. But I loved seeing Mason and Charlotte together, as they brought out the best in each other. It stopped Mason from thinking about his problems, and allowed Charlotte to be her true self, who didn’t get to come out to play very much.

conclusion

Playing Pretend was a cute, light, and fluffy read that is perfect for a nice spring/summer day. A novel that would be easy to read in one sitting, you may not be able to put it down!

[Pretty Sassy Cool · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars.

This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.

College freshman Charlotte McClain had never felt more free--or more like herself when she met sexy bartender Mason Rowell during Spring Break and embarked upon a no-strings-attached fling that lasted six blazing hot nights.

All too soon, it's time for Charlotte to go back to the "real world," attending balls, political parties, and events with her mother, who is the State Governor, and Donnie, the aspiring politician that her mother considers "a great young man". Charlotte and Mason miss each other, but since they agreed to not share any personal information when they were together, they have no way to get in touch again.

Fate intervenes and has Mason moving across the country for grad school and bumping into Charlotte when he's bartending at a high-society function.

"Will you pretend you don't know me?"

I bit the inside of my cheek and averted my eyes. "It's for the best."

Under her mother's thumb, Charlotte tries to stay away from Mason but soon finds him too tempting to resist.

After four days without seeing him, I was dying to snuggle with him. To kiss him. to feel his hands over my body. To hear his accelerated breathing in my ear. To--

The pair risks everything to be together, but how long can they sneak around before someone finds out?

Juliana Haygert came up with a great storyline in Playing Pretend , and I really like her writing style. One of my favorite things is how authentically she captures the thoughts and feelings of both Charlotte and Mason.

"I want you," I whispered in her ear. Her breath hitched, and I took pleasure in feeling her back arching with my touch, her body shivering with my breath.

Her hands grasped my arms. "Please," she gasped.

I loved when she begged. "I want the real you. The one that spent six wonderful days with me." I slid my tongue along her jaw and her nails dug into the skin of my arms. Damn, her scent was like drugs. I was addicted. "The one I know is in there. Let her out. For me."

Charlotte's friends were great, and I can totally see companion novels featuring them. Though I thought she was too flip-floppy at times, I liked Charlotte's personality and was rooting for her to get it together. Mason was swoony and sweet.

"You know what I think?" He didn't wait for my answer and said, "That we'll keep meeting like this, unintentionally. You know why? Because we should be together."

There were a few things that I didn't like. There were a lot of grammatical errors and typos, but since I read an advanced copy, I'm assuming those were all ironed out during edits. I thought that Charlotte's mother was over-the-top ridiculous [spoiler](she even threatened to kill her!)[/spoiler], and I didn't love that Charlotte was swayed, even for a second. I also thought Donnie's character could have had a little more character and thought the ending was wrapped up a little too nicely. But really, I'm not going to complain about that!

If you're looking for a hot New Adult title that's not too angsty and features a sweet, swoony guy, then check out Playing Pretend by Juliana Haygert. It's a quick read, and I think you'll enjoy it.

--
For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool

[Amy Logg · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fresh And Fast Paced Story With A Sexy Romance!

REVIEW:
The story:
We begin this story with Charlotte on Spring Break with her friends, where she meets Mason and they begin a spring romance. Mason is trying to get over an ex girlfriend and Charlotte is trying to discover who she really is, away from the pressure of being the perfect daughter for her politician Mother. They have a fun and carefree fling, but after she returns to her life in Washington, she never expects to see Mason ever again, but that's exactly what happens. After realising they now live in the same city, Mason wants to continue their relationship and see where things go, but Charlotte is reluctant, knowing her overbearing mother will disapprove. Her mother's political career is the most important thing even above her own daughter's happiness. So embarking on a secret romance is their only option, but when Charlotte's mother starts pushing her into a relationship with Donnie, a young man with aspirations for Presidency, things start to get complicated and it's only a matter of time that Charlotte's double life is exposed!

The characters:
Charlotte has spent her life doing everything to please her mother. Tired of the suffocating pressure to be perfect, and hiding her true identity, she relishes the feeling of freedom she has around her real best friend Liana and secret boyfriend Mason. Around her mother, she's weak and never stands up for herself, but around her friends the real Charlotte comes out; a carefree girl with a passion for street chalk art (such a different and fun idea!) - a stark contrast from the uptight and poised woman her mother wants her to be. I loved seeing her grow into her true self and go after the things she wants in life.

Mason comes from a poor background and is desperate to make a good life for himself. He's determined and goes after what he wants - one of which is Charlotte. He's also working towards a career in engineering and I loved that he never let his lack of money be an excuse for giving up, he's driven and passionate about his future, which was really refreshing! I also loved that he wasn't a man-whore!!!

The supporting charters where also excellent, with Mason's roommate David and also his brother Matt and best friend Brody. Brody is a total player, while David and Matt are a bit of a mystery. I actually think there might be something going on between David and Charlotte's BFF Liana!

The romance:
In every scene, Mason and Charlotte where so natural together. They brought out the best in each other's personalities and they didn't have to hide who they are. Mason was really sweet and I loved that he encouraged Charlotte to enjoy the things she was passionate about, like her art. And the love scenes where seriously sexy and passionate! Such a beautifully written romance!

The Writing:
After reading and LOVING Breaking The Reins by Juliana, I knew I had to read this book, and while it's not as intense and doesn't address any series or heavy issues, it still has the same heart and emotion. I also really appreciated the length of the story. Juliana didn't fill the book with unnecessary filler scenes just to extend the story, she used just the right amount of words to tell this story. It made for a quick and fast paced book!

FINAL WORD:
With a sexy romance and a fresh and fast paced story, Playing Pretend is perfect for any contemporary romance fans! I can only hope there will some companion novels for Mason's roommate David, best friend Brody or Charlotte's best friend Liana!

CONTENT:
Sexuality: medium / descriptive sex scenes
Violence: mild
Language: medium / several f words
Drugs & alcohol: mild

More reviews at The Reading Realm

[Savannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and opinion. Later I purchased the book ;)

Charlotte and Mason meet at a bar in California. They start a spring break romance, they pass six perfect days together. Mason knows Charlotte is a rich girl for her clothes, hotel and car, but he has not an idea how rich she is. His family is humble; he goes to the college in his town and lives with his parents.

Spring Break is almost done and Charlotte has to return to her pretend life. She didn’t say anything personal to Mason. The plan was easy: six days together, a fling and nothing else; but the fate has other plans.

One fine day Mason and Charlotte run into each other and their worlds collide again.



I knew Playing Pretend is not like Breaking the Reins, Juliana made the warning perfectly clear. I was prepared for read a book a little sexier than BTR, but Jeez I didn’t see this coming.

Christ, after she walked away from me with that Donnie boy, I could barely sleep. I lay in bed for hours, only thinking about her, about ripping that fancy dress from her, about throwing her on my bed, about licking her entire body, and making her scream my name.

The characters definition is flawless. Charlotte is the ultimate goody-goody girl; her relationship with her mother is so frustrating sometimes. Like I always say if the female audience doesn’t connect with the heroine that book is not good. But Charlotte’s background is perfectly expressed in the story; maybe you don’t share her actions but you can understand them.

“I was raised to be a perfect lady and make my mother proud.”

Same case with Mason, Juliana wrote a sweet, sexy, and worker guy; the kind of guy I love. He’s so perseverant from beginning until the ending when he felt had lost Charlotte.

“And I could be your poor best boyfriend.”

The storyline is exquisite; not the classic NA story girl meets boy and have an explosive relationship. This is Charlotte’s travel to her independence, to find her own voice and defend her decisions and life.

“Goodbye.”
“Charlotte Anne McClain!” she yelled. “If you walk out of that door now, be prepared to never come back!”
I looked at her one more time. She would forgive me someday, even if it was in thirty or forty years, when she was dying of old age.
Taking a deep breath, I walked out of her office.

The only con I found was the POV titles in the chapters, although there weren’t changes in the POV order. But isn’t so biggie.
With the plot, the dialogues and scenes I was immersed in the story and I didn’t want it finish.

So how many stars deserve this book? Let’s see

Inspirational and relatable female character? Check. (Every girl has had to raise her voice once in the life)
Sweet, funny, determined, and sexy male character? Check (Sweet Book Boyfriend Material)
Sexy dialogues? Hell yeah check. (I didn’t expect see the sexy vibe in this book)
Well development storyline? Check (Charlotte's travel is amazing and takes the necessary time)
Amazing supporting characters? Check.
Page turner factor? Oh yes check.

Bottom line? My rate is 4.5 lovely stars



Because this is



Lightly emotional and sexy Playing Pretend will surprise Juliana Haygert's readers and will attract the new ones.



Check out my Tour Stop for Dream Cast, Excerpt & Giveaway

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick

Playing Pretend by Juliana Haygert is a light and quick read that left me happy and smiling. This book was really easy to get into, and I breezed right through reading this one. I found it really entertaining, and I liked the characters a lot. I liked that there were politics and some scandal thrown in, but that it was still a fun and sweet read. This was the first book I have read by Juliana Haygert, but I really liked her writing style and it definitely won't be my last.

Charlotte lives her life according to what her mother the Governor tells her to do. She decides to go with her three best friends to California for spring break and doesn't tell her mom where she is really going. While in California, Charlotte meets a hot bartender named Mason and spends the week with him. They agree not to share any personal information and just enjoy the time they have together. After Charlotte returns home, both she and Mason are unable to forget their time together. Mason decides that he needs to get out of town and away from his ex and he heads to D.C. While working a party, he runs into Charlotte and is shocked to see her. At first Charlotte tries to push him away, but they keep running into each other. Eventually Mason convinces Charlotte to give them a chance, even if it has to be a secret. They begin to see each other, and their feelings continue to grow. But what happens when their secret relationship is made public?

I really liked Mason. He was a good guy and I thought that he was really sweet. I liked how determined he was to get Charlotte to come around to being with him. He was never a jerk or demanding, and he was willing to sneak around just to be able to spend time with her. I also liked that although he got jealous, that he wasn't over the top about it. It was really refreshing to read about a hero that was just an ordinary guy who happened to fall for a high profile girl. Charlotte was fun and down to earth despite growing up the way she did. I hated that she hid so much from her mother and just let her mother decide her life for so long, but I was glad that she was finally able to truly open up to her in the end. I thought that Charlotte and Mason had a really great connection and a ton of chemistry between them. I was so glad that Mason stuck it out with her, and I thought that he handled everything really well. Mason and Charlotte were just a lot of fun to read about, and they had some great sexy moments together.

Overall, I thought that this was a really great New Adult book. This story was sexy and sweet, and I really enjoyed it. I also really liked Charlotte's friends as well as Mason's. I would love to get their stories as well. This book was really easy to get lost in, and I found myself finishing it really fast because I was enjoying it so much that I didn't want to stop reading it. I liked the fact that there was some scandal and drama, but that it never weighed the story down. This book was really a light and refreshing read, and I would recommend it to anyone that is looking for a good book to lose themselves in for a few hours. I can't wait to read more from Haygert in the future.

**ARC provided by YA Bound Book Tours**

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had been raised to be a perfect lady. At least on the outside. No one in the world knew what was going on inside.

The last book I read by Juliana Haygert was Breaking the Reins, and it was such an intense read, that I was looking forward to reading something from her that was less gut wrenching and emotional. I wanted to be swept up in romance and fall in love with her characters. I wanted something a little bit hot. And Playing Pretend didn't disappoint on any of those fronts.

This book has the most perfect title. Playing Pretend captures exactly what this book is about. Charlotte McClain is living two lives. The one that is constructed and controlled for the public eye, and the one that is closest to that of her true self. Despite the life she lives on a day to day basis, she is a girl with her own opinions, her own desires, and her own life goals. She has a wonderful group of friends, a love of roller skating and a passion for art. And she's just spent a week with a guy who likes her for her. Not for who she is or how much money she has. But the expectations that are placed on her are not so easy to walk away from.

I really felt for Charlotte. Her relationship with her Mum left me feeling so sad. One of the greatest gifts in my life is my relationship with my Mum. It is filled with such unconditional love. And I wanted that for Charlotte. But her Mum is so focused on her career and what she needs to achieve it. She has a set of standards that Charlotte must adhere to at all costs. From what she wears, who her friends are, who she will date, even the type of man she should marry. How long will Charlotte be able to keep her other life a secret? And how will her mother react when her secrets come out?

He smiled and I was sure I never had seen a more handsome man. Not only because of beauty, but also because of all that he was. All that he wanted to be.

Mason Rowell. Beautiful, sweet Mason. I'm so glad that he didn't give up on Charlotte. They didn't instantly fall in love. They have amazing chemistry but neither of them is actually looking for love. They have a fling and then go their separate ways. But fate has a way of stepping in and bringing two people together.

Charlotte's Mum was a real contradiction. While for the most part she was controlling, she would then have a moment of being so caring. But in the end, I was so happy that things turned out the way that they did with her.

Playing Pretend was a really quick read but I never once felt like anything was rushed. Everything went at a steady pace. I really liked that the story starts where it does. The opening scenes were perfect. There were moments of angst and plenty of obstacles placed in the path of Charlotte and Mason, and I felt that the way they dealt with it all seemed very real and honest. My only wish was that Charlotte had stood up for herself a bit more where her mum was concerned.

Playing Pretend is a great New Adult read. If you're looking for an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon, I would definitely suggest you pick this one up.

3.75/5 Sweet Romance Stars

This book was gifted to me for an honest review.

[Pauline Ang · Rating 4 out of 5]

The synopsis has certainly pulled me in. I mean, a girl protagonist who has two facades, and keeping up with all the pretending? How’s that going to end for her? I was really curious, and that’s what got me hooked up.

It started on Charlotte’s Spring Break, wherein she got to meet Mason and they have this carefree, spring fling romance and not really get to know each other, thinking that they will never see each other again. Everything turns differently when they realize they live near each other. Mason wanted to get to know more about Charlotte, and she just could not forget the time that she had spent with Mason. The political career of Charlotte’s mother has always been more important than Charlotte’s happiness that is why her mother always demanded perfection, class and elegance from her. Because of this, Charlotte and Mason were forced to have a secret relationship instead. Everything goes downhill once again, when Charlotte’s mother introduces Donnie, a son of a political person.

Charlotte has always been living a double life to please her mother and herself. I actually admire her for this because she is selfless to live a life in order for her mother to be happy. Selfless as it seems, she shows a weak personality whenever she could not stand up to her mother. Seeing her real self being so carefree, artistic and passionate, a total different image from what her mother wants her to be, makes me just cheer for her to go speak up for herself. I loved that she has learned how to become strong and took it to herself to do something to be able to be free from the suffocation she was feeling from her mother. Not to mention that I could somehow relate to Charlotte, especially when she puts up all those facades to be able to deal with what’s happening based on her companions. Been there, done that. I’m glad that Charlotte was able to break herself free from this because it is really amazing to become who you truly are.

Coming from a poor family, I love that Mason did not allow money matters to come between him and his dreams. He is determined and hard working to be able to get reach his aspirations. He is truly passionate and does not give up easily.

The romance between Charlotte and Mason seemed really natural and has this overwhelming emotion. They were really sweet and passionate with each other. Most important of all, they helped bring out the best of each other and could be who they really are. No pretending, and just the two of them.

I love how Juliana Haygert has provided the point of views of both characters, and the story has good pacing. It is fast-paced, and does not have too much filler scenes, which puts Playing Pretend into a good length.

A passionate love story between two people of different status that shows the beauty of real personalities, Playing Pretend is ideal to contemporary romance readers!

Also posted at Fathomless Reveries

[Cyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

GENRE: New Adult Contemporary
THEME: Romance, Politics
RECEIVED: Tour
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/

REVIEW:
Such a cute, sweet and sexy read that was quick but overall great story with some political scandals in the mix. This one reminded me of a mix between the movie First Daughter and Such a Rush by Jennifer Echols, which made it a bundle of fun to read.

Playing Pretend follows Charlotte McClain who just had the best spring break ever; for once in her life she could be herself without the worry of her mothers controlling notions. Charlotte met Mason, he is irresistible in every way and cares for Charlotte only for her and not her money or the life she’s keeping secret from him. Even when Charlotte goes back home and her mother sets her up with another politician’s son, she can’t get Mason off her mind. To her surprise Mason is actually attending the university near her and won’t let Charlotte go without a fight. He cares for the true her, but will she let out her true self?

Charlotte is a girl who has to goes through the day pretending to be happy, perfect and the best daughter only a perfect governor would have. Like most people, I can never imagine what a life in the limelight could be like, but the readers will get a good idea how miserable it could be. I felt so bad for this girl, going day-by-day having her mother control her life and pretend that everything is perfect. Even though I know Charlotte didn’t want to hurt her mothers imagine, I would of told her off a long time ago. She treats her daughter terrible and I don’t blame her for wanting to rebel. It was interesting to see the real Charlotte and how she slowly started to see what it would be like if she spoke up for herself and just did something for her instead.

Mason is such a sweetheart, as well as a passionate and determined guy who cares for the woman he met. Even though they fell for each other over a few days it was a sweet and romantic romance. There was so much chemistry and seriously some smoking hot scenes. Mason has to deal with a lot of ups and downs in Charlotte’s life, but he handles it so well. Mason is also a guy who doesn’t care for money; he has a wonderful career dream in mind and wants Charlotte to see him as someone who just cares for her.

Overall I enjoyed this quick read of romance and politics, there was such a sweet and natural chemistry between Charlotte and Mason, it never felt forced. I also liked the fun secondary characters of David and Liana, who are both friends to Charlotte and Mason and helped guide them into the right direction. In the end I look forward for work from Haygert and maybe a continuation of Charlotte and Masons romance?


RECOMMENDATION:
This is a new adult novel that contains some light sexual content for 18+. Fans of the Such a Rush by Jennifer Echols and Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire will enjoy Playing Pretend by Juliana Haygert.

[Liz Gavin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lies and politics – where have I seen that before?

This is the first book I read by Juliana Haygert and I enjoyed it a lot. More than I thought I would, given the age of the main female character, as I usually have problems connecting with nineteen-year-old characters. Charlotte was a good surprise in that aspect. Mason, on the other hand, is a hunk and a bartender. What’s there not to like, right? In fact, he’s got a lot in common with the male lead man in my second novel, who’s also a gorgeous, sweet bartender, so I connected with Mason instantly.
After finishing the book, I logged on to post this review to find out Juliana Haygert is a Brazilian expatriate, like me. Then, it clicked why I appreciated her style so much. She’s got a very refreshing voice and uses interesting analogies that carried a distinct Brazilian flare.
Juliana does a very good job at building characters and presenting their background story as well as the settings. Living in Southern California, I felt at home with her description of Spring break around her. I knocked off one star because I felt she dropped the ball with the plot, which is very predictable and not quite realistic, at times.
I mean, it’s almost common sense that politicians are deceitful. It’s also a given their lives aren’t private. I can only imagine what it’d be like growing up in a politician’s family. Moreover, being nineteen is tough on any regular girl, for a governor’s daughter, I guess it might be a nightmare. Having said that, I understand Charlotte’s wish to be herself, away from the spotlight and her mother’s authoritative presence. Her lying to Mason, hiding her identity, during a short yet unforgettable Spring break on the other side of the country is believable. Her being the daughter of a sitting governor and not having a security detail isn’t that easy to believe, though. Lastly, the ‘conflict situation’ – no spoilers so I won’t say more than that – was a bit farfetched for my taste. But, hey, that’s is only me.
I always leave the best for last – sex! Being a romance author and avid reader, I prefer my love scenes to be more on the spicy and steamy level, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t like the love scenes in Play Pretend. On the contrary, they’re well-written and sweet.
I recommend Playing Pretend to readers searching a new voice in romance novels. You’ll enjoy Juliana Haygert’s style.
I received a copy of this book during a promotional campaign with no obligations to write a review. I did so voluntarily.

[Alex Rosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

** This book was given as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Read more at www.authorarosa.com **

Maybe I was just in a book rut when I picked this up. I had read quite a few books since the beginning of this year, and only a few have really got me to love it. Playing Pretend felt so refreshing, and captured the New Adult genre so well, and I adored it from start to finish.

This story was so flirty and fun right from the start. The book opens up with an adorable and steamy Spring Break hook-up between Charlotte & Mason, and they have a rule that they aren’t allowed to get to know each other, but their chemistry is off the charts. I fell for them as a reader, instantly.

When Charlotte has to run back to her real life in D.C. of stuffy political mayhem with her controlling mother, I was SO worried for her, because she is just such a likeable character and I wanted so much for her. Especially when she has so much going for her when she is happy doing the things she actually loves to do. Her happiness is part of her secret life, where as everything else is to keep her mother’s career in a positive light. Charlotte is living the agony of two lives, one for herself that she isn’t allowed to broadcast, and a fake one for the public eye which even includes a fake best friend and a boy she is forced to date! Ugh.

I love how this story plays out, because obviously, Spring Break on the Californian coast is not the last time we see the charmingly handsome Mason, and I will leave that for you to figure out.

Don’t even get me started on the drama that ensues that kept me on the edge of my seat, and had me snuggled with my kindle at night until I finished this book.

The passion, the flirting, the great relationships, even among friends, was so fun to read. I found my self grinning most of the way for the two main characters, and desperately rooting for them, while at the same time sneering every single time Charlotte’s dreadful mother made an appearance.

This is such a fun read that I didn’t want to put down. Although somewhat predictable, it didn’t matter, that’s not why I read it. I loved the characters, the chemistry, and I wanted a happy ending. I got everything I wanted. I recommend this read for anyone looking for a fun, flirty New Adult Romance. You won’t be disappointed! 4.5 out 5.

[Chu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak

The blurb says: A LIGHT, SEXY NA Contemporary Romance, and certainly it was!

Reminded me of movies about the president’s daughter – girls who wanted to be free, experience life, and fall in love with someone with no ulterior motives other than to love her shamelessly. Yay.

Charlotte is the governor’s daughter and she spent her life playing Peyton (her mother) says. She was really good in pretending. She can smile, laugh and talk FAKE. So when Spring Break came and she had the opportunity to be reckless, she dove in, and meets a boy who rocked her world: Mason.

Mason was a nobody. He was not rich, he didn’t belong to any political family, he was just an ordinary guy with a broken heart, who met an amazing girl during spring break. They agreed not to exchange personal stuffs during the break, instead they spent every day in each other’s arms. It was suppose to be a rebound, a fling, but it ended out to be something more. After Spring Break, he decided to move out to Washington and pursue his graduate studies, and he never expected to find Charlotte again, only this time, he wasn’t the Charlotte he knew over Spring Break. This Charlotte was different – rich, controlled, elegant, way beyond his league. But it didn’t stop him from pursuing her.

Charlotte tried to fight it off, she knew her mother would never approved. But they have that “connection” she couldn’t just ignore. How much long she can resist him? How much long will she allow her mother to dictate her?

I was waiting for THAT moment when Charlotte would stand up and fight for herself, and for everything that she wants including Mason. I hate seeing her nodding yes, smiling fake, and be with people whom her mother wanted her to be with. She’s a talented girl who prefers roller skating, drawing and short skirts rather than pencil skirts and law school. It took a little while, and a lot of sneaking around before her actions finally caught up with her, and she found the courage to speak her mind out.

It was an easy read, good for my heart, since it needed rest. It’s a short, sexy novel, perfect for a lazy afternoon!

★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charlotte leads a secret life. As the daughter of a Governor she has to keep up an image and do everything her mother says. She has to do the right things and date the right guys. What she really wants to do is hang out with her real friends, skate and draw. She has to keep them a secret from her mother. On spring break she meets Mason and he makes her come really alive. It has to end but she is always thinking of him. Mason had his heart broke and thought a fling on spring break would be a good thing. Charlotte doesn't tell him who she really is and never ask for anything more from him than just a fling. He can't get her out of his head even when he knows he will never see her again.When he moves to Washington he runs into Charlotte and finds out who she really is. He wants to be with her but Charlotte can't risk her mother or the press finding out. She will soon have to face a decision on whether to stay on the path her mother wants or make her own path in life.

Charlotte seems like a girl who just wants to have fun when you first meet her. She isn't out to have a long time relationship just a fling. She is rich but doesn't like people to know it. At home she tries to be the perfect daughter her mom wants and fake being happy even when she is dying on the inside. Mason may not be who her mother would ever be ok with her dating but he is an amazing guy. He could move on from Charlotte but he never does. He tries his best to get her to see she deserves her own life. He has goals in mind but always takes the time for Charlotte.

I really enjoyed this story as Charlotte could have easily been a spoiled girl but she is not. I actually cared a lot for her and felt bad for her. Her mother is constantly making her feel bad and making her feel guilty using her dead father as the reason. She has so much going on I am surprised her head doesn't explode. She has one guy being forced on her she doesn't like and another she really cares about but can't be with. Mason and Charlotte are very hot together. There is several steamy, sexy scenes to enjoy. The actual characters made the book great for me. I kept hoping the best for them but wondered how Charlotte could ever get her mom to listen to her. I would recommend this to anyone wanting a NA sexy romance book.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Terrific insight into life in the public eye and how important reputation is to the general public. Being yourself shouldn't cost so much.

Playing Pretend is a cute romance combining parental expectation with self discovery. Focusing on Charlotte, the daughter of a Governor, her life is constantly under the scrutiny of the paparazzi, any hint of impropriety a possible infraction against her mothers career.

The plot gives terrific insight into life in the public eye and how important reputation is to the general public. Being yourself shouldn’t cost so much. I absolutely despised Charlotte’s mother throughout the book. The pressure she puts on Charlotte and the way in which she controlled every aspect of her life. In fact I would even go so far as to say that Charlotte suffers from emotional abuse at the hands of her mother, she is forever criticizing Charlotte and never allows her to follow her heart. Laying emotional guilt trips after the loss of her father, my heart went out to Charlotte. Yet, Charlotte never falters in her sunny nature, she always remains optimistic. No matter what her mother throws at her she still loves unconditionally. However, Charlotte’s inability to stand up to her mother means she isn’t living life for herself.

Charlotte and Mason had a spring fling where they both developed feelings for the other but remained relatively anonymous to each other. A fairy-tale-esque interlude in both of their lives. Fate/destiny intervenes crossing their paths and leading them to where they should be.

I adored how Charlotte’s character, especially her confidence and inner strength grew throughout the story, in no small part due to her relationship with Mason. When you are with the right person that sense of security helps all areas of your life *swoon*

While the story is told in dual perspective I did feel as if the focus was more on Charlotte than mason, however, the insight into Mason’s thoughts, actions and past added depth to his character as well as the story as a whole.

Playing Pretend is a quick read with charismatic characters and a peak at the pressures of living life in the public eye.

[Briana Pacheco · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***

This was a quick, cute read with some sexy scenes told from dual POV's.

The story starts off with a Spring Break hook-up between Charlotte and Mason who have a rule that they're not to know anything personal of each other. These two don't let not knowing each other's last names stop them from having serious chemistry.

Charlotte is the Governor's daughter so in reality she has an image to maintain. She can't have flings left and right, go wild, have fun and most importantly, she can't be herself. She listens and does whatever her mother tells her to do and she acts how she is suppose. She plays pretend. She lives two lives; one in secret where she lets go and becomes her true self and hangs with real friends and the other where she is the perfect daughter who doesn't say no to her mother and keeps up appearances with people she doesn't care about.

The story shows great insight into life in the public eye and how reputation means everything to some people. Being a well known person has it's pros and cons and you definitely see it in this book.

I loved all the characters and wished to see more of the best friends, brothers and roommates because they were fun to have around. I don't usually go for the couple who can't seem to leave the bedroom for a minute and breathe but it was different with Playing Pretend. I loved the way the main characters connected and they had me smiling constantly.

Only reason why this wasn't a 5 star read is because of Charlotte's mother, her change was too fast. One minute she's a cold-hearted bitch and the next she's saying she doesn't want to lose her daughter and is joking (joking! It was too fast). And second, was Mason seemed to be to over the top. I just couldn't take him seriously some times. He's suppose to 23 but he's acting like a teenager who just had sex for the first time. It just didn't seem like how a guy his age would act but guys are different so who knows, maybe someone will enjoy it.

I recommend this book for anyone looking for a fun, light New Adult read.

[Kelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

What drew me into this story? The cover and the blurb. No doubt. I'm a sucker for forbidden romance and was excited to read Ms. Haygert's work.

The plot worked pretty well--girl from an affluent family with very rigid expectations unable to be with the guy who has had to work for everything in his life. The push/pull of the characters was there setting up good conflict and angst.

But I struggled.

The middle of the story a lot of wash, rinse, repeat. Mom telling her daughter what to do...daughter hating every minute of it but does it not to ruffle feathers...love interest appears, challenging the status quo...daughter pushes him away...wash, rinse, repeat. And while this works in most stories--we need that push/pull of the characters--it got to be a bit too predictable.

I also have to address that I don't believe that this book is technically NA. I realize I'm splitting hairs here. NA novels are typically college students, there's detailed sexy times, and they're working through a major life "something" (first job...sexuality...money woes...etc). The reason I feel like this is more YA than NA is because of the dependence on her mother, word choices like "she's going to ground me" (she's 19 and her mom can't punish her by grounding her...I don't care who she is), and she's "NOW" focused rather than "FUTURE" focused. Her MOM is absolutely future focused (finding someone to marry), but our female main character feels more NOW focused.

(I totally recognize I am probably in the minority on this one...)

(I also understand the classification of putting this into NA because it's about college students and there's sex involved, but the plot, scenes, conversations, and arc tip this more into the YA camp for me.)

Would I recommend this book? Sure. But I'd recommend it to the YA crowd, not the NA crowd.

[Jessica Zelkovich · Rating 4 out of 5]

A light, humorous read perfect for a spring afternoon in the hammock! I received this book in request for a review. I will keep this as spoiler-free as possible. In Playing Pretend by Juliana Haygert (I have read another of her books as well), the reader is artfully introduced to Charlotte (the daughter of Virginia's current governor with Presidential aspirations) and Mason, a hardworking bartender trying to support his education dreams and family simultaneously. I say artfully because the reader is thrown full throttle into the eyes of Charlotte as she strutted into the bar, orders her drink, leaves a huge tip and then proceeds to meet the bartender outside for a special mixed drink of their own. It might sound like a spoiler here but it isn't...because this book is all about appearances NOT being what they seem. For our heroine, who believes "Ninety percent of my friends are my friends because of my money," this temporary courtship over a spring break is perfect for her to let her true self out. However, a taste of freedom is never enough is it. As the book progresses, the reader has a front row seat to the inner struggles of dear Charlotte as she decides is life worth the pursuit of playing pretend in her current role as the Governor's daughter with political aspirations perhaps too or was that one memorable week her only chance to play pretend. The struggle is beautifully written and the outcome is explained in a way that will answer reader's questions and leave the reader pondering the next chapter. Subcharacters were intriguing and I could see a spin off happening perhaps.

[Kimber Wheaton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 Stars

Playing Pretend is a lighthearted, fast-paced NA romance that I read from start to finish without putting it down. In some ways this is an Us vs Them kind of story with main character Charlotte caught in the middle. I can't imagine what it would be like to pretend day in and day out to be someone you're not. It must be so emotionally taxing. Frankly, I'm surprised Charlotte wasn't a gibbering idiot.

Charlotte has spent her life under her mother's rule. A fast-rising politician, Charlotte's mother is on the inside track to the White House. Her mother is oblivious of Charlotte's wants and needs. She comes across as self-obsessed and uncaring. I hated her. I spent the entire first two-thirds of the book begging Charlotte to stand up for herself. By the end of the book I was so proud of Charlotte and the way things worked out for her.

Mason is such a sweetie. Handsome, sexy, intelligent, just too good to be true. He falls hard for Charlotte in the six days they spend together over spring break. Even after he realizes who she is, it doesn't deter this guy. He seems to see people for who they are, looking beneath the outside veneers. He knows he wants Charlotte, and he won't give up. Charlotte was really lucky to find a guy like this.

Playing Pretend is suitable for ages 17+ due to mature content, not a lot but it's there. If you like a light NA romance be sure to add this one to your TBR list.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review

3.5 Stars

Playing Pretend starts off with Charlotte on spring break with her three best friends in California. She meets Mason and has a one week spring fling. During their time together, they don't exchange personal information..It's all about the fun and casual hookup. When Mason and Charlotte's time together comes to an end, an emotional and physical connection is made. Although they know little about each other, there is something about Mason that makes Charlotte feel alive and free. She no longer has to pretend. Mason sees the real Charlotte.

When Charlotte returns back to Washington, she goes back to pretending to being the "proper" daughter. She feels pressured from her mother, who happens to be the governor to be someone she is not. What she didn't expect was to run into Mason. As much as she tries to avoid him, Mason makes it known that he is not going anywhere. He wants Charlotte to stop pretending. Can Charlotte finally stand up to her mother and defend her love for Mason? Or will she continue to pretend?

This book is a quick fast past NA romance. What I like about this book was Mason..He made it clear that he loved Charlotte for who she is. He didn't care about the money, cars, social standing, and parties...all he cared about was her. The story had "It's us against the world" theme. So if you are looking for a quick sweet romance with a bit of angst then go read Playing Pretend.

[Georgina Parkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ugh. I'd hate to be a fucking governors daughter. Peyton was cold as ice like 90% of the time, always fearing for her public image and crap. I felt like screaming at Charlotte to just ditch the bitch.

Like, you're 19 girl, get off your ass like last year and live like the bum you secretly act like. It took her most of the book to realise she could do things on her own and didn't need her mother, and while it would hurt her, she would eventually get over it. Weirdly enough Charlotte, while claiming to hate the high life, never begged to get a job, or go to a less swanky college or anything. It's because of her that my rating went down a star, and of course the who 'oh shit I love them' that doesn't really build, it's more like spewed out in the last 5% of the book. That really grates me.

Mason was a swoon worthy hunk, except for his really over aggressive tendencies, especially at the start - ie he'd known her those 6 days, sees her again with a guy and wants to beat his skull in..... Oh okay. Cray cray. Needs the loony bin.

But yeah, other than those the actual story was fun and cheeky and stuff. I'd like to say realistic, but I'm not into politics and ours are so different here. But I'm sure it's pretty realistic.

Also, Donny really did deserve his skull caved in. That dudes wacked. Like, total crazy-town, douche-lord, deserves-itching-powder-in-his-pants kind of guy. Yep.

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 4 out of 5]

Playing Pretend has not been so fun or real. This was a light, sexy dive into the rich and powerful world where being someone else was the way to survive the game being played. For Charlotte one carefree week of fun in the sun and in the arms of a very delicious stranger gave her a sense of who she wanted to truly be, but life has a way of taking you back down the road you don’t want to go. Back home and in her world Charlotte finds that being the real person was no longer acceptable and it was time to go back to playing pretend.

Mason was by all means a guy that knew how to have fun. Especially during Spring Break. But things take a change in a different direction after meeting Charlotte. She changes the course of his life and the meaning of it. Making the huge decision to move on and start anew, he never expected to find that woman that change everything for him.

Charlotte grows a lot in this one. She learns a valuable lesson of accepting one’s self and standing up for herself. She grows in strength and purpose. Mason was just Mason. He was sweet, strong, and understanding of Charlotte. This romance was darling.

I am not sure what the book was like before, but this time with the new content and the revised edit. I am going to say that I really enjoyed this story. Seeing how people deal with the pretend side of life opens my eyes to a new way of living or the way others live.

[Valerie · Rating 3 out of 5]

First Impressions...

The title got my attention. I am drawn to stories where people are pretending to be together. This story wasn't one of those but it is what got my attention.

The Characters...

I really like Mason. He's a sweetie. From his name to his character, he's just a great guy. A gorgeous bartender, he's walking sexy. Not a player, not a bad boy, he's one of the few good ones. Coming out of a long relationship that ended badly, he's hurting. The week he spends with Charlotte heals him but then she's gone and he can't stop thinking about her. He needs cuddling. That's all I can say.

The Story...

Charlotte is being controlled by her mother but at nineteen she wants to be who she really is. The week of freedom she spends on spring break gives her a taste of what she really wants. But for some reason, she won't tell her mother no. So she's miserable. She's not my favorite character and I wondered a lot about why she put up with so much from her mother but since I have no experience in her circles of life, I really don't understand.

Could I Put It Down...

It's a quick read and I read it straight through in an evening.

In The End...

This book is an enjoyable evening with a side of yummy scenes. If that appeals to you, then give this one a try.

[Jae R · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
My Review: The beginning was amazing. The middle was even more amazing, and the climax.... Oh my gosh. I think this climax ranks in the top 10's or most amazing climaxes I've read! Then the end was sweet, but less amazing and kind of what I expected. The male character, Mason, seemed a little bit too over the top in love.. I couldn't decide whether I liked this or not. It just doesn't seem like a guy thing. It was new, that's for sure! This weirdly goes along with Charlotte, too. What made me give the book a 4.5 is Charlotte's mother. I saw what Mrs. Haygert intended for her to act like in the beginning but her change was so fast and kin of blurred and a little unbelievable in the end. So I stuck that in the character development area and gave her a B- on that one. Also, the "sexy" part of the romance seemed like it was supposed to be intense but in reality it seemed like Charlotte was faking it (and by it I mean IT). She just seemed way too pleasured when Mason wasn't even really doing anything, and this girl is 19. But other than that I absolutely loved the book! I would also love for there to be a little short story epilogue to see how their lives went.. This was a fun short read and I thoroughly enjoyed it, I'm glad I read it.

[Gabic Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Original review at Gabic Reads as part of the Playing Pretend Blog Tour.

Right off the bat, I'm going to say I adore the way Juliana started the book. It starts not with Charlotte and Mason meeting, but with them preparing to say goodbye. It was kinda perfect.

Charlotte has been pretending her whole life to be the woman her mother wants her to be. Nobody except her three best friends can see through the facade. Mason's family is struggling to make ends meet. When he gets accepted to a college in DC, he moves from California to Washington DC.

I love how amazon encourages Charlotte. He always seems to support her. The end when they make up is also super sweet! The way everything turns around with her mom made me like the book, too. The only thing it wanted is I want to see more of Charlotte's friends. They're awesome!!

If you want a light, quick romance, Playing Pretend is definately for you. Check it out