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Minnesota Caribou #2
Played
Would you sell your soul to save your daughter's life?With my NHL career ripped to shreds by a devastating knee injury, I've hit rock bottom.Dead Ass Broke.Divorced.Single Father.But none of that matters to me. It's all about my precious little girl. My heart. My soul. She's sick and she's hurting.So when temptation makes its siren's call inside a hotel bar. I answer. How hard could it be? Escorting rich, powerful women around town? Besides, I'll do anything.My daughter's uncertain future hangs in the balance. A simple mistake invites a ghost from the past back into my life. She's only a name and a beautiful face but familiar face on a computer screen.Tempting me.We both know this is a one-time thing. No repeats. Bought and paid for in a simple transaction. But I don't think I could ever be finished with her.She tries to help me, but I push her away.Because saving my daughter's life is all up to me.***********PLAYED is a full-length steamy hockey romance from USA Today Bestselling Author, Colleen Charles, featuring friends to lovers with an adorable kiddo fighting for her life. A little bit of hockey but a whole lot of feels. It's the second book in the popular MINNESOTA CARIBOU series but is read as a standalone."The player gets played!" ~ Escritora
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2017
696 people are currently reading
496 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Charles
152 books1,183 followersAfter 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
July 31, 2017
This is the first time I have ready anything by this author and it won’t be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It captured me from the start and held on until the end with all the added twists.
Reed, Milo and Harper have been friends since grade school. Harper had a terrible crush on Reed, but he never realized it. When in high school Harper introduced Reed to a new girl, of course she was beautiful but she was also mean. She found out about the name Bacon that Reed had called Harper and teased, embarrassed and crushed Harper. Reed tried to apologize but it didn’t seem like enough. He always regretted what he did to Harper. Harper disappeared from his life.
After 10 years, Reed has it hit rock bottom. The only good thing he has in his life is his daughter, Jessica. She has a rare form of Leukemia and is declining rapidly. Her doctor recommended a new experimental treatment but it comes at great cost. Reed was a pro hockey player that ended up with a career ending knee injury. Not only that, his gold digging ex-wife cleaned him out financially and left with his agent. She wants nothing to do with Reed or their daughter. Reed has to do something. His friend and former teammate Milo wants to pay for Jessica’s treatment but Reeds pride won’t let him. Enter the escort service idea.
Reed is set up with the high-end escort service and is enamored with his first date. He can’t understand why a woman of her beauty and brains has to rely on an escort service, but he is happy to be of service. Their date doesn’t go as planned and he can’t get her out his mind. He felt so comfortable with her and their attraction was palpable. So why did she refuse to see him again? He can’t find out anything about her. It’s like she doesn’t exist and his boss won’t give out any information on her, client confidentially. Could she be using a false name to protect her identity? Can he make enough money to cover Jessica's medical costs?
I am not going to give anymore away because there is a lot going on that just should be left for the reader to enjoy. I loved all the twists and turns in the story. There is great chemistry between the characters. I also loved Milo’s character. He was a true friend to Reed and was a constant source of support and advice.
If you love a terrific second chance at love story, then give this book a try.
ARC kindly provided for an honest review.
Reed, Milo and Harper have been friends since grade school. Harper had a terrible crush on Reed, but he never realized it. When in high school Harper introduced Reed to a new girl, of course she was beautiful but she was also mean. She found out about the name Bacon that Reed had called Harper and teased, embarrassed and crushed Harper. Reed tried to apologize but it didn’t seem like enough. He always regretted what he did to Harper. Harper disappeared from his life.
After 10 years, Reed has it hit rock bottom. The only good thing he has in his life is his daughter, Jessica. She has a rare form of Leukemia and is declining rapidly. Her doctor recommended a new experimental treatment but it comes at great cost. Reed was a pro hockey player that ended up with a career ending knee injury. Not only that, his gold digging ex-wife cleaned him out financially and left with his agent. She wants nothing to do with Reed or their daughter. Reed has to do something. His friend and former teammate Milo wants to pay for Jessica’s treatment but Reeds pride won’t let him. Enter the escort service idea.
Reed is set up with the high-end escort service and is enamored with his first date. He can’t understand why a woman of her beauty and brains has to rely on an escort service, but he is happy to be of service. Their date doesn’t go as planned and he can’t get her out his mind. He felt so comfortable with her and their attraction was palpable. So why did she refuse to see him again? He can’t find out anything about her. It’s like she doesn’t exist and his boss won’t give out any information on her, client confidentially. Could she be using a false name to protect her identity? Can he make enough money to cover Jessica's medical costs?
I am not going to give anymore away because there is a lot going on that just should be left for the reader to enjoy. I loved all the twists and turns in the story. There is great chemistry between the characters. I also loved Milo’s character. He was a true friend to Reed and was a constant source of support and advice.
If you love a terrific second chance at love story, then give this book a try.
ARC kindly provided for an honest review.
November 22, 2018
PLAYED was okay, though it would have been nice to have a more satisfying resolution to Reed's cheating ex and agent!
Reed's.agent and ex-wife stole ALL HIS MILLIONS, then had the temerity to leave his sick daughter, too, without any financial cushion to handle the exorbitant medical bills he would have to face. That is one cold b***h. This writer provided no follow-up or epilogue that allowed justice to reign, instead allowing Hayden's fortune to be Reed's insurance. That sucks.
It's also disturbing that given Reed's major contributions to professional hockey, no one, no sports network, or marketing consultant gave him a pitch to take up a.new career in advertising,.broadcasting, or even coaching. Nada. After all his hard playing for his organization and team. That was most unusual and disappointing and shortsighted of this writer, although her plot direction was bent toward the stalker madam and billionaire old girl friend (not girlfriend). Still, we ought to have been given a better resolution that let Reed maintain some pride in regaining at least a portion of his hard-earned fortune. One point three stars.
Reed's.agent and ex-wife stole ALL HIS MILLIONS, then had the temerity to leave his sick daughter, too, without any financial cushion to handle the exorbitant medical bills he would have to face. That is one cold b***h. This writer provided no follow-up or epilogue that allowed justice to reign, instead allowing Hayden's fortune to be Reed's insurance. That sucks.
It's also disturbing that given Reed's major contributions to professional hockey, no one, no sports network, or marketing consultant gave him a pitch to take up a.new career in advertising,.broadcasting, or even coaching. Nada. After all his hard playing for his organization and team. That was most unusual and disappointing and shortsighted of this writer, although her plot direction was bent toward the stalker madam and billionaire old girl friend (not girlfriend). Still, we ought to have been given a better resolution that let Reed maintain some pride in regaining at least a portion of his hard-earned fortune. One point three stars.
July 31, 2017
Not fan of the H eye and talk-fucking another woman in font of the h, plus he being a total asshole to the h.
August 5, 2017
I have been on a hockey kick lately, so when I saw this book, I snatched it up! It started out very hopeful-- Reed, a single father with a sick daughter, who would do anything- literally ANYTHING- to save her, Harper, a woman from his childhood who has the capability to help, and Milo, a mutual friend from high school. While this book showed so much promise, it really kind of fell apart for me. The writing was stagnant in the middle, to the point where I was going to stop reading it, but then it picked up a bit. And I really did want to find out what happened. The end was predictable- which I'm okay with- but very sudden.
The plot was good, but the characters were two-dimensional for me, and the writing was a bit too fragmented for me to really love this book. I believe there was a disclaimer that there was a 'free' book after the story, but I was disappointed that the book ended at 45%.
The plot was good, but the characters were two-dimensional for me, and the writing was a bit too fragmented for me to really love this book. I believe there was a disclaimer that there was a 'free' book after the story, but I was disappointed that the book ended at 45%.
November 17, 2019
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection the Minnesota Caribou Digital Boxed Set 1-3 by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
This is not your usual sports related steamy collection as each Hockey player is injured and towards the end of his Caribou playing career. This steamy collection contains plain language and focuses more on broken family relationships and becoming stronger and happier when finding their significant other.
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the novel Benched in the Minnesota Caribou Digital Boxed Set 1-3 by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
An emotioned packed complexed novel with a darker side comprised of slander, rape and cheating which features two self-entitled and vindictive " trust fund babies" along with Adam's brother Mark who try to turn the town against Adam and Julia as well as ruin their careers. Returning home to the farm after a knee injury threatens to end his Minnesota Caribou hockey career,Adam Spencer feels betrayed when he finds his brother Mark in a compromising position with his fiancee Heather in their newly renovated home resulting in an accident and adam's reunion with his high school's friend's little sister, Julia Wales.
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the novel Played in the Minnesota Caribou Digital Boxed Set 1-3 by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
An ironic billionaire and virgin story of love and morals. When divorce leaves him penniless and his daughter requiring experimental chemotherapy, fromer Caribou hockey player Reed Matheson must rely on his best friend Milo,the childhood friend he humiliated and alienated in high school, Harper Payne, and an escort service to pay the bills.
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the novel Checked in the Minnesota Caribou Digital Boxed Set 1-3 by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
An steamy modern Cinderella and an attraction at first sight novel with a retired billionaire hockey player and a struggling single mother. While a good story on its own, the beginning was a little disappointing because I was expecting this to be Milo and Tania's happy ever after with their own children but, the book begins with a retired and injured Milo mourning the death of a pregnant Tania. Milo's heart opens to love when a little boy contacts him through social media and after his body responds to his first sight of the Kwik Stop's cashier, the divorced mother of three Maisy.
I purchased a copy of the three novel collection the Minnesota Caribou Digital Boxed Set 1-3 by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
This is not your usual sports related steamy collection as each Hockey player is injured and towards the end of his Caribou playing career. This steamy collection contains plain language and focuses more on broken family relationships and becoming stronger and happier when finding their significant other.
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the novel Benched in the Minnesota Caribou Digital Boxed Set 1-3 by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
An emotioned packed complexed novel with a darker side comprised of slander, rape and cheating which features two self-entitled and vindictive " trust fund babies" along with Adam's brother Mark who try to turn the town against Adam and Julia as well as ruin their careers. Returning home to the farm after a knee injury threatens to end his Minnesota Caribou hockey career,Adam Spencer feels betrayed when he finds his brother Mark in a compromising position with his fiancee Heather in their newly renovated home resulting in an accident and adam's reunion with his high school's friend's little sister, Julia Wales.
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the novel Played in the Minnesota Caribou Digital Boxed Set 1-3 by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
An ironic billionaire and virgin story of love and morals. When divorce leaves him penniless and his daughter requiring experimental chemotherapy, fromer Caribou hockey player Reed Matheson must rely on his best friend Milo,the childhood friend he humiliated and alienated in high school, Harper Payne, and an escort service to pay the bills.
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the novel Checked in the Minnesota Caribou Digital Boxed Set 1-3 by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
An steamy modern Cinderella and an attraction at first sight novel with a retired billionaire hockey player and a struggling single mother. While a good story on its own, the beginning was a little disappointing because I was expecting this to be Milo and Tania's happy ever after with their own children but, the book begins with a retired and injured Milo mourning the death of a pregnant Tania. Milo's heart opens to love when a little boy contacts him through social media and after his body responds to his first sight of the Kwik Stop's cashier, the divorced mother of three Maisy.
July 28, 2017
Reed was your typical smart mouth, show off, hot jock in high school. He was all about the girls and the glory. He had two good friends, Milo and Harper. Until he let a girl and his big mouth get in the way of his friendship with Harper. Now, years later, he has lost pretty much everything, thanks to his ex-wife. She took off with all his money and all of his possessions, except for one, his daughter Jess. Now, Jess is sick and needs a very costly experimental treatment, and Reed will do anything it takes to get it for her.
Harper always saw herself as the "fat girl" in high school. She was smart, and had her best friends Milo and Reed. She loved them both, but Milo like a brother. Reed, it was more than that, but she never told him. And then that day, Olivia happened, and after that things were never the same. Now tho, Harper has come into her own. She owns and runs a Fortune 500 Company, she learned about nutrition and exercise and has a beautiful new body, but she doesn't have love in her life. She is trying to change that.
A chance meeting brings these two together again, but with the secrets they both are hiding, it's only a matter of time before it all potentially blows up in their faces.
This is one amazing book. It will run you thru an emotional roller coaster with a lot of twists and turns, but you will come out the other end smiling at the HEA this story has. You definitely do not want to pass this one up!
Harper always saw herself as the "fat girl" in high school. She was smart, and had her best friends Milo and Reed. She loved them both, but Milo like a brother. Reed, it was more than that, but she never told him. And then that day, Olivia happened, and after that things were never the same. Now tho, Harper has come into her own. She owns and runs a Fortune 500 Company, she learned about nutrition and exercise and has a beautiful new body, but she doesn't have love in her life. She is trying to change that.
A chance meeting brings these two together again, but with the secrets they both are hiding, it's only a matter of time before it all potentially blows up in their faces.
This is one amazing book. It will run you thru an emotional roller coaster with a lot of twists and turns, but you will come out the other end smiling at the HEA this story has. You definitely do not want to pass this one up!
February 16, 2021
And that's what happened to star hockey player Reed. Now he needs money for his dying daughter's medical care, and he's too prideful to accept help, so he resorts to being an "escort" (which the book makes awfully light of, like a role-reversed "Pretty Woman," but of course Reed never has to follow through). In a twist of fate, he's paired up with his old friend from high school (Harper), who he treated abismally (I'm talking over the top terrible)... and whom he does not recognize. This was a unique concept, and some of the more interesting scenes involved Reed's boss and her ulterior motives (which were used to rachet up the stakes).
Harper used to be overweight and mousy, now she's a successful business owner and has shed all the weight. Reed is instantly physically attracted to her. We are to believe that Reed has matured because he's a father and what he's been through has changed him from his womanizing days. That would have been more believable if Harper wasn't so "perfect" physically. Why did she feel she had to go to such lengths as having her freckles lasered off, and then to hire an "escort" with the express purpose of losing her virginity? I actually wanted her to be more "herself" and still find love. Why couldn't Reed have fallen for her not-so-"perfect" body, since he claims she has such "inner beauty"? Ah, but then we wouldn’t have much of a story!
Harper used to be overweight and mousy, now she's a successful business owner and has shed all the weight. Reed is instantly physically attracted to her. We are to believe that Reed has matured because he's a father and what he's been through has changed him from his womanizing days. That would have been more believable if Harper wasn't so "perfect" physically. Why did she feel she had to go to such lengths as having her freckles lasered off, and then to hire an "escort" with the express purpose of losing her virginity? I actually wanted her to be more "herself" and still find love. Why couldn't Reed have fallen for her not-so-"perfect" body, since he claims she has such "inner beauty"? Ah, but then we wouldn’t have much of a story!
February 5, 2022
This book was unique and good… but it could have been great! The plot was great in the beginning, but then it just fizzled for me.
What I did like:
1) the uniqueness of the story! I really like second chance/ unrequited crush types stories and this was a nice take with the female character having the proverbial upper hand.
But sadly this didn’t not take away from the missing plot points I think were needed to make this flow for my tastes. THIS IS JUST MY OPINION. I’m sure the author has a reason the story’s flow and it was still good, but I guess I’m upset bc I saw the potential.
What I didn’t like:
1) I didn’t like that heroine COMPLETELY changed herself. Like I understand she had body image issues and I’m glad she lost the weight, but the breast reduction, platinum hair AND removing her freckles… it just was too much for me. Especially considering how the Hero responded to her new look at first.
2) the whole plot surrounding the ex-wife/her stealing. Like the author mentions it,but doesn’t have proper closure to me. I just think she wanted Reed to really be at the lowest of the low (ego/pride wise) and that’s why he didn’t get his money back etc. but with his daughter being sick too… it was just too much.
Yes I know it’s only 2 things but just resolving/making these plot points flow better would have made me feel happier/satisfied with the characters.
What I did like:
1) the uniqueness of the story! I really like second chance/ unrequited crush types stories and this was a nice take with the female character having the proverbial upper hand.
But sadly this didn’t not take away from the missing plot points I think were needed to make this flow for my tastes. THIS IS JUST MY OPINION. I’m sure the author has a reason the story’s flow and it was still good, but I guess I’m upset bc I saw the potential.
What I didn’t like:
1) I didn’t like that heroine COMPLETELY changed herself. Like I understand she had body image issues and I’m glad she lost the weight, but the breast reduction, platinum hair AND removing her freckles… it just was too much for me. Especially considering how the Hero responded to her new look at first.
2) the whole plot surrounding the ex-wife/her stealing. Like the author mentions it,but doesn’t have proper closure to me. I just think she wanted Reed to really be at the lowest of the low (ego/pride wise) and that’s why he didn’t get his money back etc. but with his daughter being sick too… it was just too much.
Yes I know it’s only 2 things but just resolving/making these plot points flow better would have made me feel happier/satisfied with the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2017
Harper has loved Reed for as long as she can remember. Although they were friends he never saw her as anything other than a friend.
She was overweight and plain and he was a hotshot ice hockey player. He gave her the nickname Bacon and when the object of his lust found out and used the name whilst being nasty to Harper it broke her heart and she run away and did not see him again until 10 years later, and boy how 10 years can make a difference
This is a fantastically well written story. It has plenty of drama and excitement, twists and turns to keep you hanging on to your seat all the way through
I love how Colleen has broken the mould with this story, not your normal billionaire Romance. She has written a very stong heroine who is strong but also keeps her innocence and tender heart, Harpers chemistry with Reed is off the charts and drew me in completely
Colleen Charles went fishing with his story and hooked me in completely, the story flowed beautifully, great characters, and exciting and interesting plot, if I could give more than 5 Stars then I would, my most favourite by Colleen Charles so far!!
I highly recommend this book, its a fantastic read and you are missing out if you don't
She was overweight and plain and he was a hotshot ice hockey player. He gave her the nickname Bacon and when the object of his lust found out and used the name whilst being nasty to Harper it broke her heart and she run away and did not see him again until 10 years later, and boy how 10 years can make a difference
This is a fantastically well written story. It has plenty of drama and excitement, twists and turns to keep you hanging on to your seat all the way through
I love how Colleen has broken the mould with this story, not your normal billionaire Romance. She has written a very stong heroine who is strong but also keeps her innocence and tender heart, Harpers chemistry with Reed is off the charts and drew me in completely
Colleen Charles went fishing with his story and hooked me in completely, the story flowed beautifully, great characters, and exciting and interesting plot, if I could give more than 5 Stars then I would, my most favourite by Colleen Charles so far!!
I highly recommend this book, its a fantastic read and you are missing out if you don't
July 23, 2017
A fantastic second chance story with a clueless guy!
Played - Colleen Charles
Colleen's latest book is another winner. This was a great "second chance" story for Harper and a first for Reed. Friends in childhood that were torn apart in high school due to the unfeeling immaturity of an adolescent Reed. Those wounds in the formative years can scar for a lifetime...
Both Reed and Harper became very successful adults. But Reed's success was met with betrayal, heartbreak and fall from grace, while Harper's just got got bigger and better. Harper was always a good person, and her outer beauty eventually caught up with the inner. Reed had a lot of growing and maturing to do.
So their second meeting many years later, through a most unexpected situation was interesting to say the least. Harper still has her insecurities and Reed has a very ill daughter that has forced him to reevaluate life. Their new relationship is convoluted, but beautiful. Great HEA! Thoroughly enjoyed the book!
And...Colleen added a great little bonus book, "Hook" about Chase and Chastity who met over the phone by chance when he dialed a wrong number...and it ended in phone sex! The book just gets better after that!
Played - Colleen Charles
Colleen's latest book is another winner. This was a great "second chance" story for Harper and a first for Reed. Friends in childhood that were torn apart in high school due to the unfeeling immaturity of an adolescent Reed. Those wounds in the formative years can scar for a lifetime...
Both Reed and Harper became very successful adults. But Reed's success was met with betrayal, heartbreak and fall from grace, while Harper's just got got bigger and better. Harper was always a good person, and her outer beauty eventually caught up with the inner. Reed had a lot of growing and maturing to do.
So their second meeting many years later, through a most unexpected situation was interesting to say the least. Harper still has her insecurities and Reed has a very ill daughter that has forced him to reevaluate life. Their new relationship is convoluted, but beautiful. Great HEA! Thoroughly enjoyed the book!
And...Colleen added a great little bonus book, "Hook" about Chase and Chastity who met over the phone by chance when he dialed a wrong number...and it ended in phone sex! The book just gets better after that!
July 23, 2017
This story Reed has sunk to the ultimate low living in a crappy apartment with no money do to a gold digging ex wife and a daughter who has a rare form of leukemia. Reed can afford the five figure payments for her treatment and his pride won't let Milo his best friend since high school pay the bills, he will just have to figure it out. When he meets a woman who is an escort he doesn't take her on but she slips him a card hinting he could make some money so he goes on an interview.
When Harper who is calling herself Laurie because she just hired an escort service to take care of her virginity, imagine when she comes face to face with the man who broke her heart Reed. Reed doesn't realize it's her but he feels something for her but that's against the rules so he really can't do anything about it. After a run in with someone Laurie/Harper knew in school she runs off and informs the service not to use Reed again.
This whole story has so many people playing each other is really intriguing. Can Harper see past her revenge and will Reed ever see past Laurie and find Harper? Loved all the twists and turns.
When Harper who is calling herself Laurie because she just hired an escort service to take care of her virginity, imagine when she comes face to face with the man who broke her heart Reed. Reed doesn't realize it's her but he feels something for her but that's against the rules so he really can't do anything about it. After a run in with someone Laurie/Harper knew in school she runs off and informs the service not to use Reed again.
This whole story has so many people playing each other is really intriguing. Can Harper see past her revenge and will Reed ever see past Laurie and find Harper? Loved all the twists and turns.
July 23, 2017
Reed's daughter is very sick. Due to circumstances beyond his control, he has lost all the money he earned playing pro hockey, and because of an injury, he can't play anymore, so he has to figure out how to make a whole lot of money to pay for the treatment his daughter needs to save her life. His best friend jokes about Reed becoming a paid escort. Reed quietly looks into the job. Harper has a problem. It's one she is willing to pay to take care of it, so she contacts the escort service, and completely vets the man who is supposed to take her out. Unfortunately, the guy gets sick on the night of her date, so Reed is sent instead. Harper and Reed have a past, but Reed doesn't recognize Harper at first. Their first date doesn't go well. What is going to happen if Reed realizes who Harper is? Will Harper ever fix her "problem"? How will Reed earn enough money to pay for his daughter's treatment?
Colleen Charles has done it again, weaving a wonderful tale and keeping me reading til the very last word. I highly recommend her books, especially this one.
Colleen Charles has done it again, weaving a wonderful tale and keeping me reading til the very last word. I highly recommend her books, especially this one.
August 11, 2017
Reed has been a hotshot ice hockey player for as long as he can remember. Harper has been in love with Reed for what seems like a lifetime. The two of them were very good friends because Reed never saw Harper as more than that. She was a little bit overweight and not his type, in fact he was downright rude to her when it made him look good in front of people. He never cared that her feelings were hurt so badly she ran. That is until 10 years later when they meet again. This time Harper doesn't look the same nor is she the same person she used to be and she will knock Reed out of his socks as well as help him in his time of need. Harper has become one hell of a woman and is independent and strong. When you least expect it, the people who you may have hurt in your past are the ones who help you in the future. This is another well written book by Colleen and one that you do not want to miss out on. It will suck you in from the very beginning with it's story, characters and twists with a few turns along the way. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
July 26, 2017
Beauty is more than skin deep.
Yet another great read from Colleen Charles. It gets you caught up with the story, needing to know how things will turn out.
High school hockey jock Reed has a thing for every hot girl around. Thats the only thing he really see's.
His best friend Harper was just that a friend. He didnt see her as anything other thn the chubby girl with glasses. Reeds curel words destroy their friendship and Harper.
Years later Harper has turned her life around wohard on her body and company. She was no longer reconised as old bacon Harper.
Reeds glittering hockey career is over, he's at rock bottom with his young daughter very ill. Reed didn't want to accept a hand out from best friend Milo to pay for his daughters treatment. Reed will do anything to get the money he needs for his daughter.
Reed meets Harper again but can't see whats right in front of his face. Can he finally see that beauty is only skin deep.
Can Harpers heart be fixed after all these years?
Maybe there could even be another story following Milo ??
Yet another great read from Colleen Charles. It gets you caught up with the story, needing to know how things will turn out.
High school hockey jock Reed has a thing for every hot girl around. Thats the only thing he really see's.
His best friend Harper was just that a friend. He didnt see her as anything other thn the chubby girl with glasses. Reeds curel words destroy their friendship and Harper.
Years later Harper has turned her life around wohard on her body and company. She was no longer reconised as old bacon Harper.
Reeds glittering hockey career is over, he's at rock bottom with his young daughter very ill. Reed didn't want to accept a hand out from best friend Milo to pay for his daughters treatment. Reed will do anything to get the money he needs for his daughter.
Reed meets Harper again but can't see whats right in front of his face. Can he finally see that beauty is only skin deep.
Can Harpers heart be fixed after all these years?
Maybe there could even be another story following Milo ??
December 29, 2021
I enjoyed Played, the second book of the Minnesota Caribou series. I was a bit critical of the drama and volume of villains in the first book of the series. This seems to be a common occurrence by Charles as there were plenty of jerks in this story as well! The way she has people treating others gets to be a bit much on the villain front. On the other hand, the amount of love and kindness she also portrays for her characters is so well done. Therefore, it bothered me less this time. :)
I loved the element of Reid's daughter Jessica, her illness, and what it lead to. I loved Milo's friendship to Reid. I also very much enjoyed the friends to lovers story for Reid and Harper.
I was able to listen to this via audiobook and Nelson Hobbs NEVER disappoints. I also very much appreciated the narration by Samantha Summers and will look forward to listening to her again in the future.
Note: I received a review copy of this title courtesy of the audiobook publisher, Tantor.
I loved the element of Reid's daughter Jessica, her illness, and what it lead to. I loved Milo's friendship to Reid. I also very much enjoyed the friends to lovers story for Reid and Harper.
I was able to listen to this via audiobook and Nelson Hobbs NEVER disappoints. I also very much appreciated the narration by Samantha Summers and will look forward to listening to her again in the future.
Note: I received a review copy of this title courtesy of the audiobook publisher, Tantor.
April 15, 2023
Reed and Harper, the lead characters, were friends before high school when Reed rejected Harper because she was chubby and he was hormone driven and chasing females. Now, years later, Reed has been abandoned by his ex-wife after she stole all his money, leaving him with his daughter suffering an obscure but often terminal cancer. Desperate for funds, Reed looks to obtain work as an escort and, by chance, is assigned Harper (using another name) as his first client. But old enemies are still out to get them and new people want a piece of each of them too…
This story is dual POV, well written, and contemporary, hockey adjacent romance, though it is advertised as a sports romance. I appreciated Harper’s concerns and fears, given her history and their mutual prior connection. I appreciated Reed’s concerns and the blockage in logical processing due to fear and concern for his daughter. I enjoyed the relationship growth and the gradual building of trust. I appreciated the ending.
This story is dual POV, well written, and contemporary, hockey adjacent romance, though it is advertised as a sports romance. I appreciated Harper’s concerns and fears, given her history and their mutual prior connection. I appreciated Reed’s concerns and the blockage in logical processing due to fear and concern for his daughter. I enjoyed the relationship growth and the gradual building of trust. I appreciated the ending.
July 23, 2017
Hot Hot Hot
I loved this book!! Harper and Reed grew up together. Harper was always in love with him, but he always considered her one of the guys. After a horrible mistake in high school they didn't speak again...until years later. Reed was forced into hockey retirement after getting injured, divorced, and his wife took everything except their daughter. Harper is the owner of a wildly successful company and is looking for someone to rid her of her v-card. The way they come face to face again!! This book truly pulled at my heartstrings between Jessica, (Reed's daughter), the heartache Harper endured, and how evil Reed's ex wife was. I can't recommend this book highly enough! I really hope there will be more books to come with these hockey studs!
I loved this book!! Harper and Reed grew up together. Harper was always in love with him, but he always considered her one of the guys. After a horrible mistake in high school they didn't speak again...until years later. Reed was forced into hockey retirement after getting injured, divorced, and his wife took everything except their daughter. Harper is the owner of a wildly successful company and is looking for someone to rid her of her v-card. The way they come face to face again!! This book truly pulled at my heartstrings between Jessica, (Reed's daughter), the heartache Harper endured, and how evil Reed's ex wife was. I can't recommend this book highly enough! I really hope there will be more books to come with these hockey studs!
July 28, 2017
I just finished reading Played by Colleen Charles. A good read with a well-descriptive plot. That has a twist and turn. That suspense becomes thick as ice. As you breathe in and out. What will happen next? Reed had everything in a blink of an eye he ends up with nothing. Due to his gold digger wife. She left him. Reed needs to find away to help his daughter. She has a rare form of leukemia He meets a woman who is an escort. She slips him a card. Reed thinks he going to earn money. Reed meet's someone from his past. She is carrying a luggage full of revenge. What will happen when he comes face-to-face with Harper calling her Laurie. He ends up falling in love with her. Know is against the rules. I highly recommend you this book. I volunteered to read an advanced copy to leave a review.
December 9, 2019
A really good story about two people getting a second chance with each other. A former NHL player whose daughter is very ill with cancer and needs a very expensive treatment that he is trying to figure out how to pay for. His ex-wife and ex-agent managed to take everything from him and then she left them hi and dry. Twelve years earlier they had been good friends and now Reed is as far down as he can get and Harper is the CEO of a company she started after medical issues of her own with her mother years ago. Reed is trying out as an escort because of the really good money involved and being too stubborn to accept help from his friend and former teammate.
The story flows smoothly and is enjoyable. His daughter is so sweet.
The story flows smoothly and is enjoyable. His daughter is so sweet.
Read
June 30, 2022Good read
Harper and Reed were once best friends in school, she had the cliche crush on him but he didn't return the feelings, actually he chased almost anything with a tight body and short skirt which definitely did not include Harper. After some hurtful things were said Harper ran away. Twelve years later after a knee injury retired Reed early and a painful divorce where Reed's ex took his money left with his ex-agent and abandoned their little girl he's left being a single parent to a little girl diagnosed with cancer. Dire straits has put Reed in need of a big cash flow turning to unorthodox means. Cashing in a v-card, high class escort agency, big price tag make this an interesting read.
Volunteer KU based review
Harper and Reed were once best friends in school, she had the cliche crush on him but he didn't return the feelings, actually he chased almost anything with a tight body and short skirt which definitely did not include Harper. After some hurtful things were said Harper ran away. Twelve years later after a knee injury retired Reed early and a painful divorce where Reed's ex took his money left with his ex-agent and abandoned their little girl he's left being a single parent to a little girl diagnosed with cancer. Dire straits has put Reed in need of a big cash flow turning to unorthodox means. Cashing in a v-card, high class escort agency, big price tag make this an interesting read.
Volunteer KU based review
July 28, 2017
Reed and Harper are great friends, but even though Harper wanted more with Reed, it just wasn't meant to be. A random reckless moment chases Harper far away. Years later, they are two very different people, with Reed down and out, and Harper, a confident and successful woman. This story had me in one emotional upheaval after another. It was full of angst and pain, yet there were great moments of happiness as well. I loved how realistically these characters were portrayed. This could be us in a different life. Fantastic and absolutely well played. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
July 23, 2017
Played is a second chance romance. Reed and Harper grew up together. They were best friends. He was the star hockey player and she was the poor, over weight girl with freckles. Reed broke her heart. Now 15 years later the tables have turned. Reed is broke, divorced and a single father to an ill child. Reed needs money for his daughters medical treatments. He finds himself taking a job as a male escort. Harper has completely transformed herself. She is drop dead gorgeous, unrecognizable and the CEO of her own company. This story will keep you racing to the finish
August 17, 2017
There are actually two separate stories in this book. “Played” was actually not too long and it was about two friends whose paths led them to different state of financial fortune. Reed was a good-looking jock but his ex-wife wiped him clean financially and left him the sole custody of their sick daughter. Harper grew up overweight and poor but managed to become a successful CEO. Their paths crossed again as grown-ups in a debaucherous way. There were funny and sexy moments but I felt that the story ended abruptly and then was surprised to find a bonus book at the 50% point of the book.
June 25, 2018
This is a powerful story that is very emotional and has a hard edge of realism to it. A second chance romance that is as sweet as it is heartbreaking. You could not feel for Reed. A divorced dad, with a sick child, no money and very few options. So he decides to o what he has to in order o try to save his daughter. This decision will lead him to Harper. Harper is likable and relatable. She has grown and changed to overcome her insecurities. I loved the connection and emotions that these two shared. A very entertaining and enjoyable read. I am posting a voluntary, honest review.
August 8, 2019
This is my first ever Kindle Unlimited read. I wanted to read this for awhile. So glad I did. This is about Reed and Harper. Childhood best friends along with Milo. Reed was to egotistic and immature to appreciate Harper for the young woman she was and ruined their friendship. Today Harper is a beautiful curvy, wealthy, super successful ceo of her own company with a secret she wants to get taken care of. He is a down and out ex hockey star with no job, no money and a very sick daughter after he wife and agent took everything. Can they reconnect and forget the past?
July 23, 2017
I received an ARC of this book. This is my first time reading a book by this author. I so enjoyed it. The characters were well developed, tragic people. You have to just keep reading and reading. I never wanted to leave them. Not sure why, but a vulnerable man, who can be brought to tears is just so attractive! I was very happy that Harper and Reed find the right paths! You must read this book! Very satisfying!
July 23, 2017
**I voluntarily received an Advance Reader Copy of this book.**
Wow, this is a heart stopper! It really shows how the mighty can fall, but not be counted out. There is so much I loved about this story, but I do not want to give away any spoilers
Let's just say, a high school nerd and jock may not have been a match, but CEO of her own company and an ex-pro hockey player might have a chance. Throw in some drama and some deception and you have been Played!
Wow, this is a heart stopper! It really shows how the mighty can fall, but not be counted out. There is so much I loved about this story, but I do not want to give away any spoilers
Let's just say, a high school nerd and jock may not have been a match, but CEO of her own company and an ex-pro hockey player might have a chance. Throw in some drama and some deception and you have been Played!
July 24, 2017
I love being able to read a book, not knowing anything about it when I start. This was one such book. I hadn't read the blurb and was totally surprised by the storyline. I thought it was fresh, compelling and I got completely involved.
I loved Harper Payne, with her quirks and insecurities and thought that Reed Matheson was a total hotty, and his love for his daughter was heart warming.
The character progression was fantastic, and the relationship between Harper and Reed was brilliant.
I loved Harper Payne, with her quirks and insecurities and thought that Reed Matheson was a total hotty, and his love for his daughter was heart warming.
The character progression was fantastic, and the relationship between Harper and Reed was brilliant.
August 2, 2017
This is the first Colleen Charles book that I have read and it will not be my last!!! Holy crap, this was so good! I could not put it down! I loved how Harper never gave up! Never lost the person she was on the inside even if her outward appearance changed. And even though Reed had to suffer embarrassment and heartbreak, he was able to overcome all that with the help of his friend and Harper. This is a must read and I highly recommend it!
July 9, 2018
Childhood friends that parted ways badly find eachother again. Harper was always in love with Reed but he was too young and stupid to realize. Life gives Reed some tough blows and forces him to step up and be a man. Harper transforms from the ugly duckling to a beautiful swan. When they meet again under complicated circumstances he doesn't recognize her and falls in love with the beautiful woman she has become. Will the overcome their own demons and find true love?
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