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Portwood Brothers #1
Playing it Cool
Addison has had her future mapped out since she was a little girl – pre-law degree from the University of Nebraska, getting into a top notch law school, followed by a career as a no-nonsense lawyer. She knows that a husband will come at some point, but she hasn’t figured that part out yet. One thing is certain, it’s not Bryce Portwood, the annoying class clown in her English class.
Bryce has never taken anything too serious. Life’s too short to get all worked up and never have fun. The moment Addison Webster opened her mouth, he knew she needed to let her hair down, and he wanted to be the one to help her. Getting Addison to hang out was easy. Getting her to lighten up and trust him, not so much.
Bryce has a plan. If he can get her to let go and have fun, maybe she’ll see he’s not so bad. If Bryce can just play it cool, maybe he can prove to her that he can fit into those well-laid plans after all.
Bryce has never taken anything too serious. Life’s too short to get all worked up and never have fun. The moment Addison Webster opened her mouth, he knew she needed to let her hair down, and he wanted to be the one to help her. Getting Addison to hang out was easy. Getting her to lighten up and trust him, not so much.
Bryce has a plan. If he can get her to let go and have fun, maybe she’ll see he’s not so bad. If Bryce can just play it cool, maybe he can prove to her that he can fit into those well-laid plans after all.
151 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2017
About the author
Emily Robertson
15 books189 followersEmily Robertson’s creativity started early in life on stage. Now instead of theatre, she spends her time creating worlds on the page for others to enjoy. As an avid reader, she enjoys reading New Adult and Contemporary Romance as much as she does writing them. When her dog isn’t keeping her company in her office, she might be anywhere. She’s recently learned all about baseball when her son took up the sport, playing mom taxi for one of the many activities that’s going on, or binging on some reality TV show she can’t get enough of.
If you want to stay up to date with everything going on, make sure to check out her webpage or sign up for her newsletter.
If you want to stay up to date with everything going on, make sure to check out her webpage or sign up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
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November 19, 2017💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/19/2017)! 💝
July 12, 2017
I absolutely love this series and I adore Bryce so I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book, it didn't disappoint. I love that we get the story of how Bryce and Addison meet, I also love that Bryce had to work hard to get Addisons attention, that she didn't just fall for his charm straight away. Bryce got Addison to live a little and have some fun, together they bring out the best in each other and Addison was the perfect person to reel Bryce in a little. We also get a little peek at a young Josh and Jackson, my favourite twins!! I'm sad that this is the end of this series, but I can't wait to see what awesomeness Emily comes up with next! This really is an amazing series, give it a go, you won't be disappointed.
*** reviewed for sweet & spicy reads-ARC provided for honest review ***
*** reviewed for sweet & spicy reads-ARC provided for honest review ***
July 15, 2017
Playing it Cool 5 stars! Well, Bryce still drives me insane, and I’d never get tired of reminding him of that fact. I loved seeing more of Addison and how her upbringing affected her attitude at the beginning and shapes the rest of her life too. She did need to cut loose and have some fun. Emily created fantastic characters in the Portwood Brothers, and their parents. Addison is finely crafted too. Not only did I read the ARC but I also preordered it for my Kindle as soon as I could. Emily Robertson is that Good.
July 19, 2017
I was so excited to get the chance to read the beginning of Addison’s and Bryce's story , since i read their ending in the other book, I actually fell in love with Bryce in this book! When I read the other book he was in , I wasn't actually that excited about him. I don't give spoilers away , but if you read all the rest in the series you must read this one and if you haven't it's a great one to start with , I think . I recieved a copy for my honest opinion and review . Thank You.
August 11, 2017
Addison is the smart girl who you want to be buddy with, she's got a good head on her shoulder with a plan for her future but when she meets the sexy , playboy Bryce she knows he's a distraction she don't need. Bryce doesn't take anything serious except letting loose and partying til he meets Addison and sees how uptight she is, so now he wants to help her loosen up and have fun but getting those walls down won't be easy, but it will be fun.
August 7, 2017
I freaking LOVE Bryce! If you want to see where it all started grab your copy today ad jump on for an awesome wild ride that is the Portwood Brother's!
June 26, 2018
Emily Robertson is a new author for me, and I only tried her Playing it Cool, the first in her Portwood Brothers series because it was given me as a get-well gift. Having said that, it was a great gift because wow is this a great book. Based on it, I’m promising myself that I will become well acquainted with this author. This novel truly is, quite simply, wonderful. This tale had just what I wanted and was well written and with a great plot that had a truly “genuine” feel to it. Addison Webster and Bryce Portwood, the leads here, are perfectly crafted and I loved following their romance develop. Their supporting cast is also superb. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommended and I’m definitely looking forward to Portwood Brothers book 2.
October 27, 2017
Sweet Novella
I really enjoyed this novella. It was interesting and the story moved well. If you like the bad boy and good girl, this is a great story for you.
I really enjoyed this novella. It was interesting and the story moved well. If you like the bad boy and good girl, this is a great story for you.
August 31, 2017
Addison Webster has just moved from Colorado to study at the University of Nebraska so she can become a lawyer. She vows to remain focused on her studies and not get distracted by others, especially by boys who may derail her carefully laid out plans.
Bryce Portwood is the class clown in Addison's class. He has an easy going attitude and enjoys life outside of the classroom. One day he challenges Addison to let loose and live a little and gives her a list of things that are "fun".
Can Addison take the chance to live a little after having so much to live up to and so much guilt for things out of her control in her past? Can she open up her heart to let Bryce in?
This was a great book on falling in love and taking chances to live your life and enjoy it.
I found it super interesting after everything Addison had been through that she was so focused on making it instead of taking a few breaths to enjoy life. Yet she had so much guilt over her illness as a child that she wanted to live up to the expectations that were required of her. She didn't know how to live her own life and therefore meeting Bryce was completely throwing her out of whack. Bryce was the complete opposite of what her parents would approve of and by hanging out with him she felt like she was letting her parents down.
I really liked Bryce as he knew how to live life yet at the same time when he needed to focus he could do it and was really there for Addison when they were partners in English. He proved to care about her so much and was really there for her when she needed to be. I completely understand why he was so mad about Dean though!
Great introduction to the series and I look forward to more!!
Bryce Portwood is the class clown in Addison's class. He has an easy going attitude and enjoys life outside of the classroom. One day he challenges Addison to let loose and live a little and gives her a list of things that are "fun".
Can Addison take the chance to live a little after having so much to live up to and so much guilt for things out of her control in her past? Can she open up her heart to let Bryce in?
This was a great book on falling in love and taking chances to live your life and enjoy it.
I found it super interesting after everything Addison had been through that she was so focused on making it instead of taking a few breaths to enjoy life. Yet she had so much guilt over her illness as a child that she wanted to live up to the expectations that were required of her. She didn't know how to live her own life and therefore meeting Bryce was completely throwing her out of whack. Bryce was the complete opposite of what her parents would approve of and by hanging out with him she felt like she was letting her parents down.
I really liked Bryce as he knew how to live life yet at the same time when he needed to focus he could do it and was really there for Addison when they were partners in English. He proved to care about her so much and was really there for her when she needed to be. I completely understand why he was so mad about Dean though!
Great introduction to the series and I look forward to more!!
September 3, 2017
A passionate and entertaining romance!
Playing It Cool is the first book in the Portwood Brothers series. This story tells the background history of Bryce and Addison. Addison is a strong woman that does not want to fall into the mistakes of her parents. She is determined to be independent and not let a man tell her what she can and can not do. Bryce realized one day that a real relationship is what he really wants; not a fling. Bryce has to figure out a way to break down Addison’s defenses and get her to realize that she too wants the comfort, love and companionship that a relationship has to offer.
Playing It Cool is a well-written story; perfect to start the Portwood series. The author did a great job of adding plenty of action and passion to keep my interest throughout the whole book. The characters are well developed and engaging. Emily Robertson does a fantastic job of intertwining the different characters throughout each book of the series. It doesn’t matter what order you read the books, you will not feel that you are missing anything. This is one of my favorite series as the writing is top-notch and the storyline is entertaining and full of passion.
This is one of several books that I have read by Emily Robertson and will certainly not be my last. I was not disappointed at all. I recommend Playing It Cool, or the series as a whole, to anyone that enjoys reading romance that will keep you entertained and pull at your heartstrings repeatedly.
Playing It Cool is the first book in the Portwood Brothers series. This story tells the background history of Bryce and Addison. Addison is a strong woman that does not want to fall into the mistakes of her parents. She is determined to be independent and not let a man tell her what she can and can not do. Bryce realized one day that a real relationship is what he really wants; not a fling. Bryce has to figure out a way to break down Addison’s defenses and get her to realize that she too wants the comfort, love and companionship that a relationship has to offer.
Playing It Cool is a well-written story; perfect to start the Portwood series. The author did a great job of adding plenty of action and passion to keep my interest throughout the whole book. The characters are well developed and engaging. Emily Robertson does a fantastic job of intertwining the different characters throughout each book of the series. It doesn’t matter what order you read the books, you will not feel that you are missing anything. This is one of my favorite series as the writing is top-notch and the storyline is entertaining and full of passion.
This is one of several books that I have read by Emily Robertson and will certainly not be my last. I was not disappointed at all. I recommend Playing It Cool, or the series as a whole, to anyone that enjoys reading romance that will keep you entertained and pull at your heartstrings repeatedly.
August 5, 2017
First in a series . Contemporary romance. Hero is Bryce . Heroine is Addison .
Love ❤️ how the author wrote his and her feelings. Also what happens when you meet the one person who your suppose to be with , as soon as you look at her you know she's the one . Meanwhile she doesn't seem to notice you . She (Addison ) is always so serious, Addison only thinks about being perfect , how she dresses , Grades at school , and even the courses . Love how Bryce acts with Addison. Love how he respects her and love how Bryce treats her and how he tries to bring some fun into her life .
Later on during the begging of class . He (Bryce ) notices that he and Addison share a class , he grabs a seat behind her and pays attention to her more trying to figure her out .
The professor states that the class needs to get into pairs for a project. Bryce notices a guy approaching Addison, so he states over her shoulder " since we sit so close why don't we pair up . Addison looks up at him and there is no recognition in her .
Later Bryce sees how Addison doesn't know how to have fun , with Addison it's school , school and more school. So on a commit that Bryce knows Addison can't ignore he gives her a list of 10 things to do .
Grab it and see does Addison recognize Bryce? Does she finish the list ? Does she slowly recognize her feels also
Love ❤️ how the author wrote his and her feelings. Also what happens when you meet the one person who your suppose to be with , as soon as you look at her you know she's the one . Meanwhile she doesn't seem to notice you . She (Addison ) is always so serious, Addison only thinks about being perfect , how she dresses , Grades at school , and even the courses . Love how Bryce acts with Addison. Love how he respects her and love how Bryce treats her and how he tries to bring some fun into her life .
Later on during the begging of class . He (Bryce ) notices that he and Addison share a class , he grabs a seat behind her and pays attention to her more trying to figure her out .
The professor states that the class needs to get into pairs for a project. Bryce notices a guy approaching Addison, so he states over her shoulder " since we sit so close why don't we pair up . Addison looks up at him and there is no recognition in her .
Later Bryce sees how Addison doesn't know how to have fun , with Addison it's school , school and more school. So on a commit that Bryce knows Addison can't ignore he gives her a list of 10 things to do .
Grab it and see does Addison recognize Bryce? Does she finish the list ? Does she slowly recognize her feels also
October 30, 2017
Playing it Cool by Emily Robertson
This is the first book I have ever read by Emily Robertson. I became interested in her books when I received information on her latest book in an e-mail. When I looked up that book, I discovered that it is part of a series about the Portwood Brothers. So, I decided, that if I was going to read this series, then I should start with the first book.
The two people in this story, Addison and Bryce, are students in their first year of college who meet in a common class. Addison is from Nebraska and lives in the dorm. Her parents are very prim and proper and expect Addison to behave the same way. In other words, No jeans, no alcohol, no boyfriends. She must concentrate on school work so that her grades will be perfect enough to for her to get into law school.
On the other hand, Bryce lives at home with his parents. He is a joker who doesn’t seem to take anything serious. He has no problem skipping classes or getting drunk. He appears to be the total opposite of Addison.
At first, I had a hard time liking Bryce because of his attitude. Then, I remembered back to my own college years, and I realized that Bryce acts exactly like a college student. Because of this recognition, I was able to like Bryce and better enjoy this book.
I enjoyed this book, and I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
This is the first book I have ever read by Emily Robertson. I became interested in her books when I received information on her latest book in an e-mail. When I looked up that book, I discovered that it is part of a series about the Portwood Brothers. So, I decided, that if I was going to read this series, then I should start with the first book.
The two people in this story, Addison and Bryce, are students in their first year of college who meet in a common class. Addison is from Nebraska and lives in the dorm. Her parents are very prim and proper and expect Addison to behave the same way. In other words, No jeans, no alcohol, no boyfriends. She must concentrate on school work so that her grades will be perfect enough to for her to get into law school.
On the other hand, Bryce lives at home with his parents. He is a joker who doesn’t seem to take anything serious. He has no problem skipping classes or getting drunk. He appears to be the total opposite of Addison.
At first, I had a hard time liking Bryce because of his attitude. Then, I remembered back to my own college years, and I realized that Bryce acts exactly like a college student. Because of this recognition, I was able to like Bryce and better enjoy this book.
I enjoyed this book, and I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
July 14, 2018
Goal oriented Addison finds herself in a game of proving she can have fun. It’s a loosely based concept with a ton of plot holes.
Bryce’s character came across as immature and pouty. Addison was no better. Together they were confusing sending mixed signals with limited reasoning as to why they liked each other.
I know these are incoming college freshman, but they still behave like high schoolers. This was a juvenile story more appropriately a young adult romance between college students.
It’s an odd formula at trying win me over with Bryce. He’s undecided on his career goals, yet focused on his education. The perception of him is confusing. I’m getting mixed vibes about him.
I felt introducing a medical condition warranted some research because the information given was vague. There wasn’t enough facts to support the cause.
The characters are not well thought out. Their feelings are confusing and vague. They don’t even know what it is that they like about each other. There is a lack of expression being made by them.
I have this partner who needs adult supervision.” “Hey,” he said poking her in the side, “I resemble that remark.” Major error in that statement I believe the correct word is resent not resemble. Addison started at him dumbfounded. Found another error. Should say stared not started. This needs a good proofreading.
August 1, 2017
This is the first book I've read by Emily Robertson but I can tell you it won't be the last. She has a wonderful way with the words of the story, pulling you in and not letting you go until the last page, the last word. She took me through the twists and turns of this story like a professional race car driver speeding around the track.
First of all, when we were first introduced to Bryce, I didn't like the man at all. He didn't know where he was going and I felt like he was just playing with Addison to see what he could get her to do. But as the story unfolded, we got a chance to sneak a few glances at Bryce's feelings - towards Addison, towards his family, and towards school. By the end of the book, I was in love with Bryce.
Addison, wow, that girl is a mess. She feels so much pressure, legitimately or not, that she's so scared of making a wrong move that she almost let Bryce get away, even going so far as to date someone "more appropriate". Bryce takes some of that pressure away, makes her feel like living again. Bryce and Addison complement each other so well and Emily Robertson really got that through to us.
I can't wait to see where their story goes and there are some secondary characters I'd like to see again. (hint hint, Ms Emily)
First of all, when we were first introduced to Bryce, I didn't like the man at all. He didn't know where he was going and I felt like he was just playing with Addison to see what he could get her to do. But as the story unfolded, we got a chance to sneak a few glances at Bryce's feelings - towards Addison, towards his family, and towards school. By the end of the book, I was in love with Bryce.
Addison, wow, that girl is a mess. She feels so much pressure, legitimately or not, that she's so scared of making a wrong move that she almost let Bryce get away, even going so far as to date someone "more appropriate". Bryce takes some of that pressure away, makes her feel like living again. Bryce and Addison complement each other so well and Emily Robertson really got that through to us.
I can't wait to see where their story goes and there are some secondary characters I'd like to see again. (hint hint, Ms Emily)
July 31, 2017
Emily Robertson is a new author to me, so when I stumbled upon the opportunity to read and review the books in the Portwood Brothers Series, I jumped on it because the blurbs just sucked me in.
Playing it Cool is a prequel about two characters, Addison and Bryce, that I'll soon meet again. This it their story of how they came to meet one another. I was immediately drawn to Addison's character because I felt there was something more about her, something much deeper than just a college student trying to make her way through pre-law school. And Bryce, what can I say, he was fun and full of life--not at all the type of guy that Addison was looking for.
I like though that opposites work with the story. It's a simply college romance that I'm hoping is sure to heat up in the stories that follow. I have to say though that I was rather intrigued with Dean's character because he did seem like a really nice guy.
I can't wait to get started on the next book in the series. Robertson is an amazing storyteller and I couldn't help but to think back to the days when I was in college. She made this such a fun story with very likable characters.
Playing it Cool is a prequel about two characters, Addison and Bryce, that I'll soon meet again. This it their story of how they came to meet one another. I was immediately drawn to Addison's character because I felt there was something more about her, something much deeper than just a college student trying to make her way through pre-law school. And Bryce, what can I say, he was fun and full of life--not at all the type of guy that Addison was looking for.
I like though that opposites work with the story. It's a simply college romance that I'm hoping is sure to heat up in the stories that follow. I have to say though that I was rather intrigued with Dean's character because he did seem like a really nice guy.
I can't wait to get started on the next book in the series. Robertson is an amazing storyteller and I couldn't help but to think back to the days when I was in college. She made this such a fun story with very likable characters.
August 7, 2017
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review - Naomi / Scandalous Book Blog***
I have started this series from the very beginning, reading the Novella first.
Completely sucked in from the very first words, I was hooked from beginning to end. Emily's writing is captivating and emotional.
I love the characters and I love the story so far...I cant wait to jump right into Playing by the Rules.
This book was a complete tease of whats next to come. They have great chemistry, and all the right tools to go the distance.
Addison has it all figured out, knowing exactly what path she is going to follow. However falling for Bryce was not on the agenda and her parents are not to happy about it either.
Her life has been far from easy. Dealing with her illness that still causes problems to this day and working hard to make her dreams come true.
Bryce is charming and her complete opposite. He really shows a different side to Addison.
Bryce isn't the only one after Addison though and Addison finds herself torn between the two of them.
I have my heart set on this couple getting a HEA!!!
I have started this series from the very beginning, reading the Novella first.
Completely sucked in from the very first words, I was hooked from beginning to end. Emily's writing is captivating and emotional.
I love the characters and I love the story so far...I cant wait to jump right into Playing by the Rules.
This book was a complete tease of whats next to come. They have great chemistry, and all the right tools to go the distance.
Addison has it all figured out, knowing exactly what path she is going to follow. However falling for Bryce was not on the agenda and her parents are not to happy about it either.
Her life has been far from easy. Dealing with her illness that still causes problems to this day and working hard to make her dreams come true.
Bryce is charming and her complete opposite. He really shows a different side to Addison.
Bryce isn't the only one after Addison though and Addison finds herself torn between the two of them.
I have my heart set on this couple getting a HEA!!!
October 6, 2017
A great wee novella to introduce us to the Portwood Brothers. Bryce is the class clown. He has no idea what his major will be and it's obvious he's out to have a good time.
Addison seems a little stuck-up when we first meet her, focused on her goal of becoming a lawyer like her father. It's not until Bryce steps into her life that she starts to loosen up a bit. He challenges her to branch out and try new things, to have fun.
I really loved Bryce. He's a goof, but he's also got a heart of gold. He's sweet and caring and doesn't take life too seriously. I like that even though he couldn't figure Addison out, he persevered, slowly chipping away at the wall she has around her.
Addison grew on me. I have often felt like I was on the outside looking in, and I could relate to her on that level. I liked seeing her give in and start enjoying life. Especially after meeting her parents, in particular, her overbearing mother. That woman is a piece of work!
This was a good quick read with enough of a glimpse into the characters to make me want to read more.
*side note* I'd like to read more of Dean. He seems to have had an interesting life.
Addison seems a little stuck-up when we first meet her, focused on her goal of becoming a lawyer like her father. It's not until Bryce steps into her life that she starts to loosen up a bit. He challenges her to branch out and try new things, to have fun.
I really loved Bryce. He's a goof, but he's also got a heart of gold. He's sweet and caring and doesn't take life too seriously. I like that even though he couldn't figure Addison out, he persevered, slowly chipping away at the wall she has around her.
Addison grew on me. I have often felt like I was on the outside looking in, and I could relate to her on that level. I liked seeing her give in and start enjoying life. Especially after meeting her parents, in particular, her overbearing mother. That woman is a piece of work!
This was a good quick read with enough of a glimpse into the characters to make me want to read more.
*side note* I'd like to read more of Dean. He seems to have had an interesting life.
July 29, 2018
I like it
It wasn't the best I had read but it wasn't that great either I like reading it.
It was short and yet it still didn't get the point they both was confused about their feeling for each other Bryce never dated he never felt this way before and Addison she new her parents wouldn't like him they wanted someone who help make her successful and not make fun if her and embarrass her and Bryce can do that with all the jokes he makes.
And Addison wanted to make her parents happy and give them everything she new they wanted especially her mother all she wants us for her to be successful and get all her work done and A's on everything she gets she's not allowed to get bad grade her mom would be upset and be mad while her dad us a bit more caring.
Addison still doesn't want to let her parents down so she does everything that they ask for her and she knows is she was with Bryce that wouldn't happen when her parents first him and made a joke and when they back to her dorm they grilled her, about how that not who she is suppose to be with but Addison still couldn't stay away.
It wasn't the best I had read but it wasn't that great either I like reading it.
It was short and yet it still didn't get the point they both was confused about their feeling for each other Bryce never dated he never felt this way before and Addison she new her parents wouldn't like him they wanted someone who help make her successful and not make fun if her and embarrass her and Bryce can do that with all the jokes he makes.
And Addison wanted to make her parents happy and give them everything she new they wanted especially her mother all she wants us for her to be successful and get all her work done and A's on everything she gets she's not allowed to get bad grade her mom would be upset and be mad while her dad us a bit more caring.
Addison still doesn't want to let her parents down so she does everything that they ask for her and she knows is she was with Bryce that wouldn't happen when her parents first him and made a joke and when they back to her dorm they grilled her, about how that not who she is suppose to be with but Addison still couldn't stay away.
September 28, 2017
A warm little slice of cosy, perfect for a chilly autumn evening while curled up with a hot chocolate , this little novella has heart. Strait laced Addison and charming carefree Bryce first meet at orientation for college, and while sparks fly for Bryce, the same cannot be said for Addison, who has a goal and no plans to deviate from her chosen path. Can Bryce work his magic and bring her out of her shell?
For those who have read the Portwood Brothers books, I am sure the answer is no surprise, indeed it did not surprise me either, and this is my first experience with the series, but that's okay, sometimes its nice to have a comfy, uncomplicated book to unwind with. That's exactly what this novella felt like to me. This is not the story, it's just the beginning, and while it feels complete, its also somehow nice to know there is clearly more to come.
The writing style is simple and uncomplicated, but what gives the book its heart are the well realised characters, even the relatively minor characters have some depth.
For those who have read the Portwood Brothers books, I am sure the answer is no surprise, indeed it did not surprise me either, and this is my first experience with the series, but that's okay, sometimes its nice to have a comfy, uncomplicated book to unwind with. That's exactly what this novella felt like to me. This is not the story, it's just the beginning, and while it feels complete, its also somehow nice to know there is clearly more to come.
The writing style is simple and uncomplicated, but what gives the book its heart are the well realised characters, even the relatively minor characters have some depth.
August 11, 2017
This is the first book I've read by Emily Robertson and this is book 1 in the Portwood Brothers series.
Playing it Cool is a prequel about two characters, Addison and Bryce which I understand we will get a further book about later on. This is the story of how they met one another and fell in love. Addison's character is so strong and is really more than the average college student- its like she thinks more like a 30 yr old woman, not a 18/19 yr old woman. She is an old soul while Bryce is all about fun and games- he is full of himself, not whom I saw Addison with yet they do work out perfectly for one another.
This is a college romance, one that Addison and Bryce make exciting and full of excitement; this is a novella that gets you ready for book 2 in this series which is Josh’s book and I am excited to read his story.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Playing it Cool is a prequel about two characters, Addison and Bryce which I understand we will get a further book about later on. This is the story of how they met one another and fell in love. Addison's character is so strong and is really more than the average college student- its like she thinks more like a 30 yr old woman, not a 18/19 yr old woman. She is an old soul while Bryce is all about fun and games- he is full of himself, not whom I saw Addison with yet they do work out perfectly for one another.
This is a college romance, one that Addison and Bryce make exciting and full of excitement; this is a novella that gets you ready for book 2 in this series which is Josh’s book and I am excited to read his story.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
October 16, 2017
I loved this from the first page!
Addison has always tried to be the best and focused on her life and future. No time for fun or friends.
Bryce is a care free kind of guy. He's honest, loyal but at the same time so friendly and open.
The first time they met, Bryce sets his eyes on Addison but she quickly moves on and forgets about him. He? No so much.
I loved reading how much Bryce had to work to get Addison to see him and take him seriously. Bryce family adds so much to the story, and is such a contrast to Addison's family and upbringing.
These two compliment each other so well! And Bryce proves over and over that he's reliable and trustworthy.
Playing it Cool is a great romance novella with lots of fun moments. I love reading about the characters discovering themselves and learning to trust each other.
This novella is the perfect way to start this series and I can't wait to read about the rest of the family.
Addison has always tried to be the best and focused on her life and future. No time for fun or friends.
Bryce is a care free kind of guy. He's honest, loyal but at the same time so friendly and open.
The first time they met, Bryce sets his eyes on Addison but she quickly moves on and forgets about him. He? No so much.
I loved reading how much Bryce had to work to get Addison to see him and take him seriously. Bryce family adds so much to the story, and is such a contrast to Addison's family and upbringing.
These two compliment each other so well! And Bryce proves over and over that he's reliable and trustworthy.
Playing it Cool is a great romance novella with lots of fun moments. I love reading about the characters discovering themselves and learning to trust each other.
This novella is the perfect way to start this series and I can't wait to read about the rest of the family.
June 26, 2018
Emily Robertson is a new author for me, and I only tried her Playing it Cool, the first in her Portwood Brothers series because it was given me as a get-well gift. Having said that, it was a great gift because wow is this a great book. Based on it, I’m promising myself that I will become well acquainted with this author. This novel truly is, quite simply, wonderful. This tale had just what I wanted and was well written and with a great plot that had a truly “genuine” feel to it. Addison Webster and Bryce Portwood, the leads here, are perfectly crafted and I loved following their romance develop. Their supporting cast is also superb. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommended and I’m definitely looking forward to Portwood Brothers book 2.
July 12, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. Addison and Bryce are just so different, but different works, right?
Addison's life is heading for her becoming a lawyer, just like her dad. She wants to make her parents proud as they have done so much for her. She is going to work hard and not lose her focus. That is until she meets Bryce.
Bryce has no plans, doesn't know what he wants to do with his life yet - there is plenty time for all that. In the meantime he wants to have a little fun along the way and winding up Addison is part of the fun. Neither character are looking for a relationship, but destiny has other ideas.
A sweet story giving you the background of the couple and leading nicely into the main series. Well written with likable characters (apart from Addison's mother - I didn't like her much 😁)
Addison's life is heading for her becoming a lawyer, just like her dad. She wants to make her parents proud as they have done so much for her. She is going to work hard and not lose her focus. That is until she meets Bryce.
Bryce has no plans, doesn't know what he wants to do with his life yet - there is plenty time for all that. In the meantime he wants to have a little fun along the way and winding up Addison is part of the fun. Neither character are looking for a relationship, but destiny has other ideas.
A sweet story giving you the background of the couple and leading nicely into the main series. Well written with likable characters (apart from Addison's mother - I didn't like her much 😁)
August 16, 2017
This is my first read by Emily Robertson and I can already tell that I will be reading many more.
This book was a very sweet read that had my heart pounding out of my chest at one point. I love the characters Addison has been through so much in her short life. Now off to college she has her future all planned out and guys are not on that agenda (at least not yet). Bryce when you first meet him kind of comes off as cocky and knows how to lay on the charm. But he never gives up on something he wants.
Can Bryce bring Addison out of her all work no play mentality? Will Addison allow Bryce into her carefully laid out plans? Find out today in this novella of the Portwood Brothers. Can't see what the rest of the brother's stories are like.
This book was a very sweet read that had my heart pounding out of my chest at one point. I love the characters Addison has been through so much in her short life. Now off to college she has her future all planned out and guys are not on that agenda (at least not yet). Bryce when you first meet him kind of comes off as cocky and knows how to lay on the charm. But he never gives up on something he wants.
Can Bryce bring Addison out of her all work no play mentality? Will Addison allow Bryce into her carefully laid out plans? Find out today in this novella of the Portwood Brothers. Can't see what the rest of the brother's stories are like.
August 26, 2020
I received an ARC and I'm freely reviewing.
This is a new author to me. The premise sounded great. The book started a little slow for me but Addison and Bryce were an interesting couple. They're both young and in their first year of college. Addison is a determined, rigid(i dont know if that's the right word) young gal. Bryce is a funny, type of free spirit but a hard worker. Addison makes a lot of assumptions with Bryce. She is struggling with her feelings for him, maintaining her life and balancing everything. Bryce is determined and doesn't give up, he keeps trying for her. There are times where the story felt like I was missing something or jumped too quickly to the next part. Overall, a cute read.
This is a new author to me. The premise sounded great. The book started a little slow for me but Addison and Bryce were an interesting couple. They're both young and in their first year of college. Addison is a determined, rigid(i dont know if that's the right word) young gal. Bryce is a funny, type of free spirit but a hard worker. Addison makes a lot of assumptions with Bryce. She is struggling with her feelings for him, maintaining her life and balancing everything. Bryce is determined and doesn't give up, he keeps trying for her. There are times where the story felt like I was missing something or jumped too quickly to the next part. Overall, a cute read.
July 11, 2017
I have had Playing by the Rules on my TBR list for awhile now and after reading this prequel, I am moving that baby up and getting the others in the Portwood Brothers series. This novella had everything I needed to read today. Funny....sassy...emotion...secrets and more. I loved how Bryce and Addison were able to counterbalance each other's personalities and quirks despite being more alike than they thought. Yes Bryce is enough to drive any sane woman crazy, but he is exactly what Addison needed to loosen up a bit. She may never be completely at ease with herself but Bryce being there will help round her out...I hope.
October 21, 2017
Playing it cool by Emily Robertson in book 1 in the Portwood Brothers series.
It's a contemporary romance novella and very easy to read.
It was a great introduction to this family and the characters involved.
Addison and Bryce are complete opposites to each other but as they grow closer, they learn things from each other and become stronger together.
There are ups and downs and obstacles that they face but it also had humour and a depth to the main and secondary characters and I found it hard to put this down.
The ending was a bit abrupt with no epilogue so I'm hoping we get to visit with Addision and Bryce again in later books.
It's a contemporary romance novella and very easy to read.
It was a great introduction to this family and the characters involved.
Addison and Bryce are complete opposites to each other but as they grow closer, they learn things from each other and become stronger together.
There are ups and downs and obstacles that they face but it also had humour and a depth to the main and secondary characters and I found it hard to put this down.
The ending was a bit abrupt with no epilogue so I'm hoping we get to visit with Addision and Bryce again in later books.
October 22, 2017
I read this story via #QuirkyBlindDateWithABook
I loved this story and I am going to add the rest of this series to my tbr list and must buy soon pile.
This is the first I have read by this author.
I loved getting to know Addison and Bryce. I loved Bryce!!! I saw a note from the author that she didn't get along well with him but I want a Bryce of of my own. He is cocky and arrogant but he is so much more than that. Addison is more reserved and Bryce is trying to get her to loosen up some.
I was left wanting more of these characters. I wanted to slap Addison's parents, more so her mom than dad. I look forward to getting to know more about the Portwood family.
I loved this story and I am going to add the rest of this series to my tbr list and must buy soon pile.
This is the first I have read by this author.
I loved getting to know Addison and Bryce. I loved Bryce!!! I saw a note from the author that she didn't get along well with him but I want a Bryce of of my own. He is cocky and arrogant but he is so much more than that. Addison is more reserved and Bryce is trying to get her to loosen up some.
I was left wanting more of these characters. I wanted to slap Addison's parents, more so her mom than dad. I look forward to getting to know more about the Portwood family.
October 28, 2017
4.5 Stars!! This was a quick, easy and great read!!
This was the prequel to the the “Portwood Brothers” series. It is novella.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I think the push and pull between the two main characters was actually what kept me on edge and I loved it. I felt the same way Addison felt about Bryce. Took me a while to warm up to him but I fell in love.
This book flew by and then when I read the end I was super sad. But it was such a good prequel to the series that now I am ready to read on. What a great love story. I need to know more!!
** I received this book as a Review Copy through Quirky Blind Date With a Book and in return gave my honest review**
This was the prequel to the the “Portwood Brothers” series. It is novella.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I think the push and pull between the two main characters was actually what kept me on edge and I loved it. I felt the same way Addison felt about Bryce. Took me a while to warm up to him but I fell in love.
This book flew by and then when I read the end I was super sad. But it was such a good prequel to the series that now I am ready to read on. What a great love story. I need to know more!!
** I received this book as a Review Copy through Quirky Blind Date With a Book and in return gave my honest review**
October 25, 2020
Bryce tries everything he can to get Addison to like him and become his girlfriend. Unfortunately, Addison is very driven and has very high expectations. One of them is to not disappoint her parents, and Bryce is not the kind of guy they would approve of. Even though she knows it, she loves being around him…
I was disappointed by the language, which lessened the pleasure of reading this otherwise perfectly sweet story. I really don’t understand why swearing is so important, especially for characters that are getting a college education. Otherwise, this short story is well written, and the plot kept being interesting.
I was disappointed by the language, which lessened the pleasure of reading this otherwise perfectly sweet story. I really don’t understand why swearing is so important, especially for characters that are getting a college education. Otherwise, this short story is well written, and the plot kept being interesting.
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