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Portwood Brothers #5

Playing for her Heart

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Wes had it all, an amazing job, a great family, and the best friends. He lives by the motto “work hard and play harder.” His only regret is the way things ended with his college girlfriend, Hailey. He knows he could have handled the situation better, and he has lived with that ever since the day they broke up.

Hailey used to love her job, the city, and life. That was until she suffered the unimaginable at the hands of a coworker. Since the assault, life just isn’t the same, and she feels like she’s losing control. Now the job she loved is her personal hell, and the city she used to enjoy doesn’t seem so great. She’s got baggage, a lot of it, and so many regrets she can’t even count them all.

When Wes learns that Hailey’s world has come crashing down around her, he finally puts his hurt and pride away and reaches out to the woman he once loved. Hailey may think she’s unlovable, but he’ll show her that she’s wrong. Wes is all in and ready to show her that she can depend on him. A little work never bothered him before especially when he’s playing for her heart.

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First published October 26, 2017

9 people are currently reading
52 people want to read

About the author

Emily Robertson

15 books189 followers
Emily 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.

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5 stars
39 (63%)
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15 (24%)
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6 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
10.9k reviews127 followers
January 15, 2021
This is the 5th book I've read written by Emily Robertson; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stephanie (Between the Coverz).
578 reviews6 followers
October 22, 2017
A passionate and entertaining romance!

Playing For Her Heart is the fifth book in the Portwood Brothers series. This story tells the love story of Hailey and Wes. Hailey had a job offer of a lifetime and was willing to put aside her relationship to take the chance. Little did Hailey know that when an offer appears too good to be true there is a reason for that. Even though Hailey hurt Wes, he never let his love for her go. She was his one true love and he was willing to do what it would take to get her back. Is it too late to realize that the comfort, love, and companionship of a past relationship was always the best offer.

Playing For Her Heart is a well-written story; another perfect to story in 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 an amazing 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 have yet to be disappointed! I recommend Playing For Her Heart, or the series as a whole, to anyone that enjoys reading romance that will keep you entertained and pull at your heartstrings repeatedly.
90 reviews
October 24, 2017
I could barely wait to read this book and as always with this author, it was more than worth the wait. Wes and Hailey dated all the way through college and then it happens. Hailey has a chance..something that only comes around once in this life and the wants to take it. In typical male fashion, Wes tells her that if she takes it they have no future. Hailey takes the chance and from there it is all downhill. Wes loves her…he really loves her but didn’t feel like they could handle more time away from each other. As in real life, when you really love someone you are there, even when they make mistakes or do something that pulls them away and Wes is that guy. He’s all about loving her and being the support she needs.

I love the Portwood brothers series and this is a perfect addition to it. I love how Emily makes me feel, it’s one of the things I look for in my “go to” authors and she is definitely one of them. I find myself pulling out the box of tissue and at times, laughing out loud. Her books change a person, they make you see life and those around you in ways you never thought you would. This book is definitely a keeper and one I will read over and over again.
Profile Image for Suzanne.
823 reviews5 followers
October 24, 2017
Wes thought that he and Hailey were meant to be together. They had been dating through college and the plan was that when she graduated she would move to be with him. Only problem was that Hailey was offered a dream placement nowhere near, and she'd decided to go for it, figuring their relationship could withstand another year apart. Wes unfortunately did not agree and they broke up.

The story picks up about 18 months later, and Hailey's life certainly hasn't gone exactly to plan. She has got the fantastic job, but her life is in tatters! Where can she turn for support? She just wants to keep her head down and hide from the world. The help she needs comes from the most unlikely source and gradually gives her the life she deserves.

Wes' story is another great addition to the Portwood brothers series, without him being a blood brother of course. I like that you get little mentions of the characters from the rest of the series too. This book could be read as a stand alone, but why would you?
Profile Image for Susan Trewick.
572 reviews18 followers
November 3, 2017
I love this series and couldn't wait to get my hands on this book, it does not disappoint. The book starts off with a bang and continues from there! Hailey and Wes break up after Hailey chooses a job over their relationship. After an incident at work, Hailey is falling apart and is thrown further when Wes turns up at her door wanting to reconnect. Can Hailey overcome her fear and take Wes back? Can their relationship survive the long distance between them? Will Hailey take Wes's advice and stand up for herself at work? You will have to read to find out!
I loved this story, I was hooked from the first page and gripped till the end. You really are taken on a roller coaster of emotions with Hailey, hoping she finds the courage to take Wes back and to face her incident at work. It was a quick read, set some time aside when you start this as once you start you won't want to stop!


*** reviewed for sweet & spicy reads-ARC provided for honest review ***
22 reviews
December 14, 2017
I love Emily's writing and Wes has always been my favourite. So reading about his back story with Hailey was a no brainer for me. The Portwood family is crazy as most families are but Wes just tries harder than his two other brothers. Plus he doesn't annoy the crap out of me like Bryce. Although he doubts himself several times Wes is on a quest to fix his life because something is just missing. Hailey discovers that what she always wanted turned into a nightmare. Can these two crazy stubborn people work it out and get all that they really want? A twist at the end will leave you wondering what the hell Wes is smoking but Emily's twist is awesome and such a satisfying read. Strong characters, great friends, crazy moments and situations that tug at your heart are all hallmarks of Emily's writing. I think Playing For Her Heart is my favourite book so far. a Reread of them all minus the Bryce 2 might be in Order.
3,737 reviews42 followers
January 1, 2021
This is book five in The Portwood Brothers Series and it is Wes and Hailey's story. See and Bailey were in love and they had been together for a long time but when Hailey is offered a job that she doesn't want to refuse it pulls there relationship apart as Wes didn't want to do long distance. Will See change his mind and has Hailey bitten off more than she can chew well you will have to read this book to see if they get a second chance of being together again. The characters and storyline in this book pulls you in right from the first page and it is so addictive that I couldn't put this book down. This is one of my favourite books written by Emily Robertson who is a brilliant author and writer and I can't wait to read more of her books. I definitely recommend you read this book and series and you will definitely not be disappointed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marea.
402 reviews2 followers
December 19, 2022
This is the 5th book in the Portwood Brothers series and like all the others it doesn’t disappoint you.

Wes and Hailey met in college and thought they had their whole lives planned out. They would be together forever. But often what you plan to happen and what happens are not the same. When college was over, Hailey had the job of a lifetime opportunity, she believed that they could handle being apart for awhile but Wes did not so they broke up. Their love for each other did not stop though and when they met up 18 months later the fire was still there.

Now the question is can they work through it all and get back together or will they let the past, the taking another chance ruin what could be a match made in heaven.

I could give you more details but then that would ruin the book.

This is definitely a book to add to your collection as Emily Robertson has created another winning romance book.
Profile Image for Sheri Bishop.
507 reviews7 followers
October 23, 2017
Who knew Wes would turn out to be the most romantic fellow of the Portwood Brothers clan?? While he's not officially a Portwood Brother, he's been kind of adopted. Wes wormed his way into my heart and has taken up residence.

Hailey, our dear brave Hailey! So much has happened to her that she just doesn't understand how anyone can see her as anything but unlovable. Where has her confidence and strength gone?? Probably the same place as ours has gone when we were in her position.

I don't know how Emily Robertson does it to me but every time I finish one of her books, I always tell her and myself "you can't top this one". But she proves me wrong every time. The only complaint I really have (and it's not really a complaint lol) is it just wasn't long enough. It left me wanting more - actually more of the whole Portwood clan. I can't wait to see what Emily writes next.
Profile Image for Sue Ouellet-Cofsky.
2,580 reviews51 followers
October 30, 2017
Playing for her Heart is the 5th book the Portwood Brothers series and although I have only read a short pre-quell, I absolutely want to go back and read all the other books in the series. While you may get a glimpse in some of the previous stories, I do believe this can be read as a standalone...at least I did not feel like I was missing some great backstory while I was reading.

Wes and Hailey planned a life together. But Hailey had an opportunity that she just could not pass up and Wes was not willing to wait. Fastforward a year or so and it becomes clear that these two still care. But tragedy strikes that will either finally pull these two together or keep them apart forever. Emily Robertson deals with a very difficult subject with a delicate hand and pulls you into a story that will remain on your mind for some time.
Profile Image for Gwen Shafer.
2,269 reviews42 followers
October 11, 2017
This was the first book that I have read by Emily. I have to say she has just gained a new fan. I absolutely loved this book from the beginning to the end.I was a little thrown when I started to read this book because of what happens to Hailey but by the end I absolutely loved this book. Hailey is a very strong woman who just needed the right person back in her life to make her see and feel again. I absolutely loved Wes. I loved how understanding he was when it came to Hailey and everything that she was dealing with.
This was just a great book and I cant wait to read more from Emily especially regarding the other characters that were involved in this book. I highly recommend reading this one and the other ones from Emily.
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews38 followers
October 18, 2017
Hailey and Wes made it thru college and their relationship hit a solid wall. She had the opportunity of a lifetime and he offered an alternative, take it and we’re done. She took it. Now she is in a mess and in trouble and Wes is there to help. This tender short story about their second chance is touching and just part of why I love this author. She takes an ugly situation and handles it with a caress and tenderness that comes from a long and lasting love as they prove to themselves that they can take it slow and make it work. Wes is sweet and gentle and just what Hailey needs (insert deep sigh).

Love this author and the way she brings all the elements of a story together. Great read and addition to the Portwood Brothers standalone series.
Profile Image for Julie Jackson.
2,320 reviews10 followers
October 16, 2017
Reviewed for SNS

Hailey and Wes go their separate ways when she chooses her job over him. She moves and when things go bad with a man that she works with, she just wants to take it all back. When Wes appears on her doorstep at Christmas, she is taken back but doesn’t make him go. They fall back into a pattern until he has to go home. He wants her to stand up for herself with the situation at work but she doesn’t think she can be that strong. Can they fix their relationship and get back what they once had? Can she stand up for herself and make things right again? Excellent writing with a storyline that will make you feel every emotion you have.

Profile Image for BookAddict.
2,102 reviews210 followers
October 25, 2017
It looked like Wes and Hailey would be together forever, until Hailey took her dream job and that ended things between them. Except her dream job turns into nightmares as a result of an assault by a coworker. With her life and psyche hanging by a thread, help and support come, along with a second chance, from a surprising source: Wes. The advance copy I read of this book is my first by this author and I really liked it! I enjoyed Wes and Hailey’s story, and I always love a second chance romance. I applaud the author for handling a tough subject, as well. Don’t miss this touching, wholesome second chance romance that is sure to leave your heart smiling.
1,766 reviews8 followers
January 12, 2021
Hailey and Wes were in a committed relationship until Hailey had the chance at a great job in a different city. Wes said that if she left they were over. But Hailey has been attacked at her job by one of her clients, and her boss's attitude is that she should do whatever is needed to keep the client happy. Hailey now feels that she has no control over her life. Will Wes help when he learns that things have gone wrong with her life?

This book is a great read. I couldn't put it down. Another late night.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,331 reviews27 followers
January 13, 2021
I received an ARC from the author thru Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review. Wes and Hailey have a love story full of heartache and second chances. They have a connection that they cannot deny. Wes is not going to let his heart leave this time. Hailey has to with thru her trauma and trust her heart to let him in. They have a lot of roadblocks in their path to a future together. They can get past them together

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,249 reviews16 followers
January 18, 2021
Wes and Hailey dated all through college until Hailey got a job. Hailey loved her life then the unthinkable happened, and her world is crashing down around her. Wes hears this and with all the love that he has for Hailey shows up on her doorstep. He will prove to her that she is lovable and that maybe they could have more together. The characters are well developed and so likable. The action and story line played out well, and was just so enjoyable. This kept me engaged and I loved this story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amber Holder.
52 reviews3 followers
October 24, 2017
This is the first book that I've read by this author and I'm happy to say that it definitely will not be the last. I was a little floored by the fast pace of the book but kept reminding myself that it was a novella ( I normally will not read novellas due to how quick they fly buy). All in all I'm super excited to say that I've found another author to stalk! Great job, Emily Robertson! I look forward to backtracking in this series!
Profile Image for Jennifer Dicenzo.
440 reviews
October 26, 2017
Ahh Hailey and Wes!! These two have been in the background since the very first novel. But after college, they don’t end up together like you would expect. Hailey has a great opportunity in a new city. So they end up going their separate ways. When Wes shows up on her doorstep just when she needs him the most, Hailey is forced to realize that overcoming tragedy may lead her exactly where she is supposed to be.
Profile Image for Deb.
7,608 reviews37 followers
January 13, 2021
I requested a copy of this book so I could provide an honest review. I did so after reading the incredibly interesting blurb supplied by the author. I couldn’t read this book fast enough. The reveals regarding her life were so heartbreaking. I loved that he cared enough to see her through her turmoil and help her see that she deserves happiness.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,316 reviews27 followers
January 15, 2021
This book was heartbreaking but also beautiful in the process of healing. Wes comes back into Hailey’s life after an assault and wants to help her realize she isn’t damaged and is worthy of love. Just a heads up for a trigger warning if discussion of rape bothers you. This book doesn’t go into detail but does deal with the fall out and emotions after an assault.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,586 reviews19 followers
January 16, 2021
While I love reading this author's stories, I did not particularly liked the fact that this one was told in the third person point of view. It's the story about Hailey and Wes who were a couple until a job opportunity took Hailey away from Wes and they ended things.
I really liked the story and I would have loved it even more if it were written in the first person. 4.5 stars

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Esme Greiner.
2,006 reviews12 followers
January 18, 2021
Wes and Hailey dated when she has a chance to make her dream job come true so Wes ends things with her. Her dream job in the city turns into a nightmare when she is attached by a client and her boss doesn't handle it well. Wes finds out about it and comes to her to be the support she needs. Can he help her through what happened to her? Do they have a second chance to make it right?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jennifer Richey.
1,992 reviews
October 19, 2017
This is book 5 but complete stand alone we are getting Wes & haileys story and boy am I basket case reading this story! Wes & hailey spilt but something happens and bring these two back together and more closer than ever! This author books always bring me to my seat with her books love them and can’t wait for more!
Profile Image for Misty Goan.
2,809 reviews13 followers
January 12, 2021
Amazing short standalone well written romance.  This engaging storyline has plenty of passion, action and love in a rollercoaster of emotions keeping me addicted page after page.  The characters are interesting,  well developed and have great chemistry.  I love how supporting characters for others in the series are intertwined.  I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC.
4,653 reviews
January 12, 2021
An emotional second chance romance about Hailey and Wes, they planned a life together until she was offered a promotion and he couldn't deal with the distance.
The story is well-written, has a triggering event, and you can't help but root for them.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Melissa.
244 reviews
January 19, 2021
Playing For Her Heart is the phenomenal story of Wes and Hailey, college sweethearts, torn apart by life. Given a second chance, they are determined to make it work.

The story is captivating, heartwarming, and emotional. My only complaint was missing out on the first 4 books in the series, something I plan to fix immediately!
Profile Image for Ree.
2,522 reviews53 followers
October 26, 2017
This is a very sweet, emotion-packed story. Though there's a trigger, the author was very good at conveying the emotions throughout the ordeal. I look forward to reading more of her work.

I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for The Endless Unread.
3,428 reviews63 followers
October 26, 2017
This book was full of many twists and turns that will keep you guessing what is going to happen till the very end. I devoured it in one sitting. Incredible work!! I absolutely adored reading this book and will be one clicking the rest of this authors work.
Profile Image for Laura Hampton.
641 reviews36 followers
February 18, 2018
I loved Wes' story. Robertson's writing just gets better and better. Her characters are engaging, relatable and believable. She sucks you in from the very first chapter. Absolutely love her writing style!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

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