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Play On #1
Wszystko przed nami
Samantha Young, autorka serii On Dublin Street i powieści Hero, której nazwisko często trafia na listę bestsellerów New York Timesa, wraca do Szkocji w swojej nowej, pełnej namiętności, inspirującej powieści o miłości, stracie i sile przetrwania.
W pogoni za marzeniami, pełna nadziei i wiary w słuszność swojego wyboru, Nora O'Brien przenosi się z Indiany do Szkocji. Doznaje jednak rozczarowania i po trzech bezowocnych latach spędzonych w nowym kraju czuje tylko żal i poczucie winy.
Dopóki w jej życiu nie pojawia się seksowny Szkot, Aidan Lennox.
Kilka lat starszy obyty w świecie producent muzyczny i kompozytor, wydaje się zupełnie nie pasować do Nory. Tymczasem wbrew pozorom odnajdują w sobie iskrę, której im brakowało. Łączy ich wspólny śmiech i namiętność, dające im siłę do dalszych zmagań z życiem, mimo bolesnych doświadczeń z przeszłości.
Niestety, kiedy życie wymierza Aidanowi kolejny cios, ten nie szuka wsparcia u Nory, ale znika z jej życia. Kolejna bolesna strata budzi w Norze ukryte siły. Gniew i ból popychają ja naprzód, pomagają odzyskać kontrolę nad życiem i śmiało podążyć za marzeniami.
Studia, występy na scenie teatralnej – wszystko układa się według jej zamierzeń. Koncentruje się na swoich celach, starannie unikając emocjonalnych zawirowań.
Nie jest to jednak łatwe. Zwłaszcza że znów pojawia się Aidan i z niewiadomych powodów żywi do niej głęboką niechęć, a nawet wypowiada jej wojnę.
W pogoni za marzeniami, pełna nadziei i wiary w słuszność swojego wyboru, Nora O'Brien przenosi się z Indiany do Szkocji. Doznaje jednak rozczarowania i po trzech bezowocnych latach spędzonych w nowym kraju czuje tylko żal i poczucie winy.
Dopóki w jej życiu nie pojawia się seksowny Szkot, Aidan Lennox.
Kilka lat starszy obyty w świecie producent muzyczny i kompozytor, wydaje się zupełnie nie pasować do Nory. Tymczasem wbrew pozorom odnajdują w sobie iskrę, której im brakowało. Łączy ich wspólny śmiech i namiętność, dające im siłę do dalszych zmagań z życiem, mimo bolesnych doświadczeń z przeszłości.
Niestety, kiedy życie wymierza Aidanowi kolejny cios, ten nie szuka wsparcia u Nory, ale znika z jej życia. Kolejna bolesna strata budzi w Norze ukryte siły. Gniew i ból popychają ja naprzód, pomagają odzyskać kontrolę nad życiem i śmiało podążyć za marzeniami.
Studia, występy na scenie teatralnej – wszystko układa się według jej zamierzeń. Koncentruje się na swoich celach, starannie unikając emocjonalnych zawirowań.
Nie jest to jednak łatwe. Zwłaszcza że znów pojawia się Aidan i z niewiadomych powodów żywi do niej głęboką niechęć, a nawet wypowiada jej wojnę.
420 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2017
932 people are currently reading
7576 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Young
108 books28.3k followersSamantha is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee. Samantha has written over 60 books and is published in 31 countries. She writes emotional and angsty romance, often set where she resides—in her beloved home country Scotland. Samantha splits her time between her family, writing and chasing after two very mischievous cavapoos.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 746 reviews
September 13, 2017
ARC provided to me by author Samantha Young in exchange for an honest review.
This summer has been the summer of me just wanting to read romance. So, I may or may not have went on a binge request streak last month, just requesting ARCs from romance authors that many of my friends praise that had new and upcoming releases. Play On is a new adult contemporary romance that follows a girl, who moves across the world, to make a better life for herself. Of course, things do not go as planned, and the story ends up being about knowing your worth, putting yourself first, and still allowing yourself to love and be loved again.
I read this in one sitting last night.
I loved this, I loved this completely. Our main protagonist, Nora, is from a small town in Indiana, where her family isn’t making her life any easier. She is eighteen, just graduated high school, and is working a job in the fast food industry. She is also being constantly haunted from losing someone very close to her in her past, and that event has shaped Nora to the very core of who she is. She isn’t happy, she doesn’t have anything to look forward to, and then she meets two boys from Scotland, who are road tripping through the States.
Nora’s life is changed forever, and even though she is hoping it would be changed for the better, life ends up throwing her another unexpected punch. She is now twenty-two, and once again trying to start over and create a life that she can be proud of doing.
Nora has always dreamt of going to college and pursuing theater. It is a hidden dream, that she’s never felt she could pursue, so instead she volunteers reading and performing for kids at the local children’s hospital. Childhood cancer stories are normally ones I stay very far away from, because they hit too close to my own personal life, but this one was heartwarmingly done. I mean, I was crying every sentence the kids were mentioned, but it was well done, yet I still think important to mention that childhood illness is represented in this book. Trigger warnings for that (childhood illness, mostly cancer), verbal abuse, and emotional abuse.
Basically, what I’m trying to say is that Nora has had a very difficult life, and she is only twenty-two. Yet, her path continually crosses with a very attractive Scot, who is dealing with his own set of problems. Aidan is a very successful music producer, who has recently had his life turn upside down, too.
And then our story truly becomes a story of Nora discovering her worth, and how her worth is not dependent on her family, her job, or her education. She learns that hope is far more powerful than she ever realized. She learns that kindness to others can bring kindness to you, as well. She learns that she is loveable and capable. She learns that independence does not always mean being alone. And she learns that life is always worth living.
Now everything I just mentioned above made me fall completely in love with this story. It was amazing and I simply could not put it down. I was sure this was going to be five stars and the best romance book I’ve read all year. Then, I hit the 80% mark, and a very annoying miscommunication plotline popped up. Which was fine, I can deal, Nora has been through worse and I had a good feeling everything would work out in the end. Yet, instead of it working itself out immediately, she was verbally and emotionally abused in a space that was supposed to be safe for her.
Also, we started getting into hate to love territory, but it felt so out of character. Like, Nora is an amazing character and she deserved better. I found myself rooting for Nora to just be alone, after me believing in this magical love story for 80%! I guess I was satisfied with the ending, but that last little bit just seemed rushed and had too much abusive conflict in it for me to give this a five star rating.
I still completely recommend this. I mean it when I say that I could not put this book down. It’s completely immersive and the very definition of addictive. And I think this was overall such a strong book for me to start of Samantha Young’s work. I now want to read any and everything by her.
This book is a very different new adult contemporary romance, too. In fact, I’m not sure if I’ve read anything like this ever. It truly is a unique reading experience, with a lot of very unexpected twists. Plus, like I said above, the messages about finding yourself and knowing your own self-worth were really amazingly done and I completely recommend them to any human being. Also, this reads very much like a standalone, which I also really appreciated.
Please pick this book up if you’re looking to feel all the emotions. One chapter I was bawling my eyes out, feeling more anguish than my little body knew what to do with. Then, the next chapter, I was grinning like a love-struck idiot feeling all the warmth in the world. This book has amazing writing, the storylines are all addicting, and the messages are so important.
Blog | Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram | Youtube | Twitch
The quotes above were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
This summer has been the summer of me just wanting to read romance. So, I may or may not have went on a binge request streak last month, just requesting ARCs from romance authors that many of my friends praise that had new and upcoming releases. Play On is a new adult contemporary romance that follows a girl, who moves across the world, to make a better life for herself. Of course, things do not go as planned, and the story ends up being about knowing your worth, putting yourself first, and still allowing yourself to love and be loved again.
I read this in one sitting last night.
“You would think after numerous attacks of grief the human body would be unable to process any more sadness. But our hearts have an annoying amount of endurance.”
I loved this, I loved this completely. Our main protagonist, Nora, is from a small town in Indiana, where her family isn’t making her life any easier. She is eighteen, just graduated high school, and is working a job in the fast food industry. She is also being constantly haunted from losing someone very close to her in her past, and that event has shaped Nora to the very core of who she is. She isn’t happy, she doesn’t have anything to look forward to, and then she meets two boys from Scotland, who are road tripping through the States.
Nora’s life is changed forever, and even though she is hoping it would be changed for the better, life ends up throwing her another unexpected punch. She is now twenty-two, and once again trying to start over and create a life that she can be proud of doing.
Nora has always dreamt of going to college and pursuing theater. It is a hidden dream, that she’s never felt she could pursue, so instead she volunteers reading and performing for kids at the local children’s hospital. Childhood cancer stories are normally ones I stay very far away from, because they hit too close to my own personal life, but this one was heartwarmingly done. I mean, I was crying every sentence the kids were mentioned, but it was well done, yet I still think important to mention that childhood illness is represented in this book. Trigger warnings for that (childhood illness, mostly cancer), verbal abuse, and emotional abuse.
Basically, what I’m trying to say is that Nora has had a very difficult life, and she is only twenty-two. Yet, her path continually crosses with a very attractive Scot, who is dealing with his own set of problems. Aidan is a very successful music producer, who has recently had his life turn upside down, too.
And then our story truly becomes a story of Nora discovering her worth, and how her worth is not dependent on her family, her job, or her education. She learns that hope is far more powerful than she ever realized. She learns that kindness to others can bring kindness to you, as well. She learns that she is loveable and capable. She learns that independence does not always mean being alone. And she learns that life is always worth living.
Now everything I just mentioned above made me fall completely in love with this story. It was amazing and I simply could not put it down. I was sure this was going to be five stars and the best romance book I’ve read all year. Then, I hit the 80% mark, and a very annoying miscommunication plotline popped up. Which was fine, I can deal, Nora has been through worse and I had a good feeling everything would work out in the end. Yet, instead of it working itself out immediately, she was verbally and emotionally abused in a space that was supposed to be safe for her.
Also, we started getting into hate to love territory, but it felt so out of character. Like, Nora is an amazing character and she deserved better. I found myself rooting for Nora to just be alone, after me believing in this magical love story for 80%! I guess I was satisfied with the ending, but that last little bit just seemed rushed and had too much abusive conflict in it for me to give this a five star rating.
I still completely recommend this. I mean it when I say that I could not put this book down. It’s completely immersive and the very definition of addictive. And I think this was overall such a strong book for me to start of Samantha Young’s work. I now want to read any and everything by her.
This book is a very different new adult contemporary romance, too. In fact, I’m not sure if I’ve read anything like this ever. It truly is a unique reading experience, with a lot of very unexpected twists. Plus, like I said above, the messages about finding yourself and knowing your own self-worth were really amazingly done and I completely recommend them to any human being. Also, this reads very much like a standalone, which I also really appreciated.
Please pick this book up if you’re looking to feel all the emotions. One chapter I was bawling my eyes out, feeling more anguish than my little body knew what to do with. Then, the next chapter, I was grinning like a love-struck idiot feeling all the warmth in the world. This book has amazing writing, the storylines are all addicting, and the messages are so important.
“If you’re to be mine, I need all of you to be mine, because all of me is yours.”
Blog | Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram | Youtube | Twitch
The quotes above were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
September 5, 2017
<3 4.5 stars <3
When it comes to Samantha Young I don't have to read the synopsis because I simply love whatever she writes, so you can imagine how excited I was for this new series.I devoured Play On, I was hooked and mesmerized.I love Samantha's ability to make me feel like I'm a part of her story and this is exactly what happened with this one!
Play On was heartbreaking,intense and sweet.Samantha Young takes the reader in an emotional roller coaster, there were moments I wanted to cry.I loved Nora, she is going through so many things but still she is so strong and determined.Aidan and Nora don't fit together but somehow they find a way.These two when they are together is like an explosion.Their chemistry is off the charts.
I'm looking forward to read the second book in this series.
When it comes to Samantha Young I don't have to read the synopsis because I simply love whatever she writes, so you can imagine how excited I was for this new series.I devoured Play On, I was hooked and mesmerized.I love Samantha's ability to make me feel like I'm a part of her story and this is exactly what happened with this one!
Play On was heartbreaking,intense and sweet.Samantha Young takes the reader in an emotional roller coaster, there were moments I wanted to cry.I loved Nora, she is going through so many things but still she is so strong and determined.Aidan and Nora don't fit together but somehow they find a way.These two when they are together is like an explosion.Their chemistry is off the charts.
I'm looking forward to read the second book in this series.
October 31, 2017
4.5 ★'s
Can I just say that there hasn't been a book of Samantha Young's that I've read, that I haven't loved...and this book is no exception. My one issue was the beginning and I know that's hard for some people to get past but I hope you do.
There are three parts in this story and the first begins with us getting to know Nora. We find out that she's stuck in her little town, unable to go to college because of lack of funds and having to help take care of her diabetic father. That wasn't always the case...she was raised up having big plans but then life happened.
Fortunately, she meets a young Scottish man named Jim and they are both quickly smitten. The problem is Jim is just there visiting and when it comes time for him to leave, he just can't...at least not right away but soon his money is running out. Somehow, he convinces Nora to leave with him, get married, and go to Scotland. It's no surprise she didn't hesitate!
A few years pass and Jim and Nora are doing all right but there's something missing from Nora's life. It's very obvious what it is but Nora is unsure about pursuing it. Life happens again and makes that decision for her.
And then she meets Aidan... ~sigh~ Aidan/Braden...almost the same yumminess. But Aidan's life is a little complicated and then erupts into a full fledged mess with Nora caught in the middle. Enter all the scrumpdilliumtious angst!!
Yes, it was a little predictable and cliché but I didn't really care...and as always, I wanted it drawn out all at the same time. I loved that Nora stuck to her guns for the most part even if Aidan was a little tricksy! And the ending was really sweet.
I can't end this review without talking about Seonaid and Robby...there are great friends to Nora and I loved what happened with them. I can only hope Samantha Young will write their story!
Can I just say that there hasn't been a book of Samantha Young's that I've read, that I haven't loved...and this book is no exception. My one issue was the beginning and I know that's hard for some people to get past but I hope you do.
There are three parts in this story and the first begins with us getting to know Nora. We find out that she's stuck in her little town, unable to go to college because of lack of funds and having to help take care of her diabetic father. That wasn't always the case...she was raised up having big plans but then life happened.
Fortunately, she meets a young Scottish man named Jim and they are both quickly smitten. The problem is Jim is just there visiting and when it comes time for him to leave, he just can't...at least not right away but soon his money is running out. Somehow, he convinces Nora to leave with him, get married, and go to Scotland. It's no surprise she didn't hesitate!
A few years pass and Jim and Nora are doing all right but there's something missing from Nora's life. It's very obvious what it is but Nora is unsure about pursuing it. Life happens again and makes that decision for her.
And then she meets Aidan... ~sigh~ Aidan/Braden...almost the same yumminess. But Aidan's life is a little complicated and then erupts into a full fledged mess with Nora caught in the middle. Enter all the scrumpdilliumtious angst!!
Yes, it was a little predictable and cliché but I didn't really care...and as always, I wanted it drawn out all at the same time. I loved that Nora stuck to her guns for the most part even if Aidan was a little tricksy! And the ending was really sweet.
I can't end this review without talking about Seonaid and Robby...there are great friends to Nora and I loved what happened with them. I can only hope Samantha Young will write their story!
June 29, 2018
Title: Play On
Series: Play On #1
Author: Samantha Young
Release date: September 12, 2017
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
This was a tough one for me to rate because this had a considerable amount of angst in it, and it successfully left me teary eyed more than once. However, there were several things that didn't quite work for me so I decided on a mid-level rating. Play On certainly had a lot of things going for it. I'm sure that many fans of second chance romance will be swept away by this story of a young woman faced with many tragedies and setbacks, who finds love at a very low point in her life. Twice.
The story is broken up into three parts, and part one is mostly Nora's early years in her Indiana hometown just after graduating high school. She's working in a fast food restaurant and has no personal life to speak of. She doesn't live, she exists. With dreams hidden under her bed in a little box, tucked away where prying eyes can't find them and crush them. Ever since her father lost his successful construction business and became wheelchair bound, she and her mother only exist to pay the bills and take care of him. Her home is void of love or encouragement to better yourself. You're expected to accept the dismal fate that was handed to you without complaint. Which leaves Nora feeling very hopeless, trapped, and desperate for any means of escape.
When Jim McAlister inadvertently stumbles into her life and showers her with attention, she grasps on to him with both hands. Starving for someone to show her the barest scraps of affection, she gets swept away by this exciting new romance with the infatuated foreigner.
I peeked at him again and blushed harder under his intense scrutiny. “You’re looking at me.” “Aye. It’s hard not tae.”
It wasn't that she never loved him at all, but unfortunately for Jim, her feelings were tepid at best and it only went downhill from there. Their impulsive teenage marriage was doomed from the start, having only known each other for a few weeks before eloping. But when your life is at such a rock bottom low such as hers, you leap before you look. You take risks on a possible happiness rather than certain unhappiness. Just when their rocky marriage had come to a crossroads, the choice was taken out of her hands on how to proceed with their future. And from that point on, she was stuck in limbo. Unable to forgive herself of the past, and equally unable to allow herself a new start in life.
I’d started to lose myself when I’d followed him to Edinburgh to escape my life. Once there, once I’d realized I didn’t love him like he loved me, instead of being honest, I’d stayed with him and played the part of the wife he wanted and in doing so lost myself entirely.
My first problem was surrounding part one. Don't get me wrong, I sympathized with Nora, and appreciated the development in her character. I just didn't need six chapters and roughly 100 pages devoted to her relationship with Jim. I would have been perfectly satisfied with starting out in part two with a few flashbacks to better understand where Nora's commitment and family issues came from. I found myself wanting to skim over a lot of the details because I just wanted to get to central relationship to the story.
Once Aiden and Nora's section kicked in, I started to become completely engrossed within the pages. Their relationship was bridged by his niece Sylvie who attended her story time at the children's hospital where she volunteered. After introducing her to her uncle whom she hero worshipped, Nora became a little starry eyed herself. With twelve years on her in age and sophistication, he seemed to have his life all together while hers was only ever floundering. He was a rich, successful composer and he intimidated her while simultaneously made her heart pound. I enjoyed their attraction to one another, their crackling chemistry that never got a chance to fully ignite.
As much as I enjoyed their relationship, it was the side story with Sylvie that ultimately brought tears to my eyes. I didn't feel an all-consuming need for them to be together, I was a little more interested in the fate of his niece and how Nora would overcome her internal struggles.
After a somewhat standard and frustrating reason for separation, Nora and Aiden were once again reunited as she finally seemed to be moving on and setting her life back on track. Nora suddenly finds that the man who broke her heart eighteen months ago strangely hates with with a vicious passion. And she realizes that they both may have been the wronged parties in their split. She thought all along that giving Aiden her heart was probably foolish, but the heartbreak was something that she felt she deserved as a kind of penance for what occurred in her marriage. She had to come to realize that she had to give herself permission to be happy. To give love a doorway into her life, and follow her passion in acting. But most of all, to trust that forging a new and solid relationship wouldn't ruin the fragile happiness she had found.
There was one scene in particular that I really loathed and I was so disappointed. After finding each other once again, the best part of a second chance romance are those first intimate moments together. The reunion.
As far as your concerned, you’re already a ghost in my bed. I’m so fucked in the head over you, I’m willing to be haunted."
I really loved the wonderful secondary characters in Seonaid, Roddy, and Sylvie. Samantha Young has a true talent in making every character shine and come to life. I also enjoyed her vivid descriptions of Edinburgh, and the heroine's journey in shedding her fears and guilt. Overall, a story of overcoming life's tragedies, accepting the love and future you deserve, and finding the courage to heal. It's not my favorite from her, but I think one many will enjoy if you're a fan of a good emotionally charged story.
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September 12, 2017
FULL REVIEW BELOW - might contain a few tiny little spoilers - not real spoilers, but if you're very anti-spoiler, you might not want to read it ☺
(but you can read the next two lines!!)
I LOVED Play On!!!
Such a beautiful story! ☺☺☺ This book has alll the feels!!!
AND NOW THE FULL REVIEW:
Nora is 18 when she leaves her little hometown in the United States to come to Scotland with 21 year old Jim.
But what she thought was her first real love, ended up with them being just friends. She just didn't love him the way he deserved to be loved - the way he loved her.
And now she's pretty much alone in Europe with no idea what to do with her life.
Then she meets Aidan. And life could finally be good for Nora.
But things are complicated ..... and Nora might not yet be ready for her Happy Ending ....
What will happen with Nora in Scotland??
Will she find her Happily Ever After??
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
══════════════════════════
Eeeep ... a new Sam Young series! (all standalones with no connected characters.)
I was sooo excited to get started .... and I loved it!
It wasn't this cute and sexy little new adult thing I was expecting. It was soooo much more!!
There was cute and sexy and funny and adorable and new adult, but there was also so much pain and hope and loss and grief and guilt and fear and love and ... ugh, so much 'stuff' in this one book. I wouldn't have minded a trilogy about Nora and her life!!! ☺
The book was a tiny little bit confusing in the beginning, because we go back and forth in time a bit. Not a good thing for someone suffering from Booksalzheimers like I am! ☺☺☺
First we get a chapter from 2015 - the prologue - which already made me cry. ☺
And then we go back with Nora to when she was 18 in 2011 - back home in Indiana.
How her hard life just sucked the joy and hope out of her.
She works at a fast food place.
She has to take care of her disabled and sometimes mean dad.
She has no hope of going to college.
She only has some very deeply hidden dreams of one day being a theater actress.
Then scottish cutie Jim with his sexy accent arrives in town - he's on a US-trip with his buddy Roddy.
And suddenly her future looks a bit brighter.
But once she's been in Scotland for a few years, she's not so sure about things anymore.
Her relationship with Jim is not what she wanted it to be - or rather what Jim wanted it to be.
And then we meet Aidan.
And he's so mysterious .... and a bit older (12 years) and rich and smart and talented and sweet and intense and so much more.
But things are just way too complicated. Nora is not sure if she's ready for Aidan. She thinks he deserves better than a stupid little girl with no idea what to do with her life. A girl with so much guilt about her family and about Jim ....
Time to start growing up and get your life sorted little Nora!
I just loved this story! It was so beautiful.
I cried a lot!!! (Don't worry, I do that in almost every book!!!! I'm just like Phil Dunphy with the crying!☺☺☺ ↓)
There is soo much story in this book. Actually, I think, we kind of have five different books in here.
Nora's time growing up in that US town with her complicated family. Her time with Jim. Her time after Jim. Her time with Aidan. And her time with Aidan - part 2.
I wanted this book to be so much longer!!!!
But it was amazing the way it was ....
We have so many moving and sad and heartbreaking moments.
But also so many cute and adorable and funny and sexy moments.
I sometimes wanted to kick Nora in the behind to finally start fighting harder for her happily ever after! But of course we all know that she'll get there by the end of the book... But it's a long way for her and the reader! ☺
What can I say ....
Perfect romance! With allllllll the feels!!! ♥
Can't wait to see where this series will take us in book #2!!!
♡
♡
♡
♡
♡
♡
(but you can read the next two lines!!)
I LOVED Play On!!!
Such a beautiful story! ☺☺☺ This book has alll the feels!!!
AND NOW THE FULL REVIEW:
Nora is 18 when she leaves her little hometown in the United States to come to Scotland with 21 year old Jim.
But what she thought was her first real love, ended up with them being just friends. She just didn't love him the way he deserved to be loved - the way he loved her.
And now she's pretty much alone in Europe with no idea what to do with her life.
Then she meets Aidan. And life could finally be good for Nora.
But things are complicated ..... and Nora might not yet be ready for her Happy Ending ....
What will happen with Nora in Scotland??
Will she find her Happily Ever After??
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
══════════════════════════
Eeeep ... a new Sam Young series! (all standalones with no connected characters.)
I was sooo excited to get started .... and I loved it!
It wasn't this cute and sexy little new adult thing I was expecting. It was soooo much more!!
There was cute and sexy and funny and adorable and new adult, but there was also so much pain and hope and loss and grief and guilt and fear and love and ... ugh, so much 'stuff' in this one book. I wouldn't have minded a trilogy about Nora and her life!!! ☺
The book was a tiny little bit confusing in the beginning, because we go back and forth in time a bit. Not a good thing for someone suffering from Booksalzheimers like I am! ☺☺☺
First we get a chapter from 2015 - the prologue - which already made me cry. ☺
And then we go back with Nora to when she was 18 in 2011 - back home in Indiana.
How her hard life just sucked the joy and hope out of her.
She works at a fast food place.
She has to take care of her disabled and sometimes mean dad.
She has no hope of going to college.
She only has some very deeply hidden dreams of one day being a theater actress.
Then scottish cutie Jim with his sexy accent arrives in town - he's on a US-trip with his buddy Roddy.
And suddenly her future looks a bit brighter.
But once she's been in Scotland for a few years, she's not so sure about things anymore.
Her relationship with Jim is not what she wanted it to be - or rather what Jim wanted it to be.
And then we meet Aidan.
And he's so mysterious .... and a bit older (12 years) and rich and smart and talented and sweet and intense and so much more.
But things are just way too complicated. Nora is not sure if she's ready for Aidan. She thinks he deserves better than a stupid little girl with no idea what to do with her life. A girl with so much guilt about her family and about Jim ....
Time to start growing up and get your life sorted little Nora!
I just loved this story! It was so beautiful.
I cried a lot!!! (Don't worry, I do that in almost every book!!!! I'm just like Phil Dunphy with the crying!☺☺☺ ↓)
There is soo much story in this book. Actually, I think, we kind of have five different books in here.
Nora's time growing up in that US town with her complicated family. Her time with Jim. Her time after Jim. Her time with Aidan. And her time with Aidan - part 2.
I wanted this book to be so much longer!!!!
But it was amazing the way it was ....
We have so many moving and sad and heartbreaking moments.
But also so many cute and adorable and funny and sexy moments.
I sometimes wanted to kick Nora in the behind to finally start fighting harder for her happily ever after! But of course we all know that she'll get there by the end of the book... But it's a long way for her and the reader! ☺
What can I say ....
Perfect romance! With allllllll the feels!!! ♥
Can't wait to see where this series will take us in book #2!!!
PLAY ON was such a heartbreakingly beautiful & emotional love story. About a girl fighting to find her place in the world - in life, and especially in love ... Run to your nearest amazon to see if she finds her happily ever after with Aidan - but get your own hottie scottie - this one is MINE! ☺
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October 2, 2017
Samantha Young never ceases to amaze me with her novels. It always keep me on my toes, invested with the drama and brought all the emotions out of me. Play On is about Nora O'Brien and Aidan Lennox. Here, we get to see their journey of love, grief, forgiveness and self-discovery.
Nora has always been a dreamer. She's a bright, smart and talented lady. An aspiring actress. After her work, she volunteers in a children's hospital as a storyteller. At an early age, she experienced spices of life since the breadwinner of their family, her father got sick and became physically dependent. Taking care of her father means putting her dreams on hold. She's trapped and lost living on a simple life. Many people encourage her not settle on a small town and chase her dreams. Meeting Jim McAlister is a blessing in disguise. She and Jim had a meet cute moment and fell in love with each other after weeks of dating. The problem was he's a tourist and he needs to go home. These two were inseparable and she realize it's her chance to get off her small town. By an impulsive decision, Nora elopes with him.
Years later, Nora resides in Edinburgh, Scotland. She thought she can freely do what she wants but it's no different from her life in Indiana. I predicted Nora and Jim's marriage isn't going to last for the following reasons:
a.) What they have is an infatuation. Nora wasn't deeply in love with Jim. Over the years, they're strangers living in the same roof.
b.) Jim selfishly loves Nora. He wants to settle down and start a family. He's trapping her again. He's scared of losing her. It's sad because he loves her but the feeling isn't mutual.
A life changing event happened, Nora was lost and vulnerable. I may disagree with her decisions but I empathized with Nora. There are moments she's frustrating and dramatic. Sometimes I want to shake her badly and get herself together. She feels guilty on a lot things and feels unworthy of finding happiness. At some point I can relate to her self-doubt, insecurities and regrets. Her journey of self-discovery was full of trial and error and I appreciate how she learned a lot as she overcome her weaknesses.
While volunteering in a hospital (Edinburgh) she met Sylvie Lennox and her sexy uncle, Aidan Lennox, who's a famous music producer. Just like her, they experienced loss. I love Nora and Aidan's chemistry and slow burn romance. As the story progressed, you can feel the intensity and angst brewing a lot of sexual tension. Aidan Lennox is an affectionate, protective and sweet guy. I love how he woos Nora and he reminds me of Braden Carmichael. Very romantic and swoon-worthy. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and I'm looking forward for the next book.
Final rating: 4.5 / 5 stars
Nora has always been a dreamer. She's a bright, smart and talented lady. An aspiring actress. After her work, she volunteers in a children's hospital as a storyteller. At an early age, she experienced spices of life since the breadwinner of their family, her father got sick and became physically dependent. Taking care of her father means putting her dreams on hold. She's trapped and lost living on a simple life. Many people encourage her not settle on a small town and chase her dreams. Meeting Jim McAlister is a blessing in disguise. She and Jim had a meet cute moment and fell in love with each other after weeks of dating. The problem was he's a tourist and he needs to go home. These two were inseparable and she realize it's her chance to get off her small town. By an impulsive decision, Nora elopes with him.
Years later, Nora resides in Edinburgh, Scotland. She thought she can freely do what she wants but it's no different from her life in Indiana. I predicted Nora and Jim's marriage isn't going to last for the following reasons:
a.) What they have is an infatuation. Nora wasn't deeply in love with Jim. Over the years, they're strangers living in the same roof.
b.) Jim selfishly loves Nora. He wants to settle down and start a family. He's trapping her again. He's scared of losing her. It's sad because he loves her but the feeling isn't mutual.
A life changing event happened, Nora was lost and vulnerable. I may disagree with her decisions but I empathized with Nora. There are moments she's frustrating and dramatic. Sometimes I want to shake her badly and get herself together. She feels guilty on a lot things and feels unworthy of finding happiness. At some point I can relate to her self-doubt, insecurities and regrets. Her journey of self-discovery was full of trial and error and I appreciate how she learned a lot as she overcome her weaknesses.
While volunteering in a hospital (Edinburgh) she met Sylvie Lennox and her sexy uncle, Aidan Lennox, who's a famous music producer. Just like her, they experienced loss. I love Nora and Aidan's chemistry and slow burn romance. As the story progressed, you can feel the intensity and angst brewing a lot of sexual tension. Aidan Lennox is an affectionate, protective and sweet guy. I love how he woos Nora and he reminds me of Braden Carmichael. Very romantic and swoon-worthy. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and I'm looking forward for the next book.
Final rating: 4.5 / 5 stars
September 12, 2017
The story is told in three parts. I didn't think much of part one and actually felt sorry for Jim, her husband. Part two was slow and I suppose this is the part where we're supposed to feel Aidan and Nora fall in love but I didn't feel it, there wasn't much chemistry. Aidan at 34 is 12 years older than Nora but you couldn't tell as he acted like a guy in his 20's.
The end of part 2 had me laughing as it read like a plot from a Mills & Boon romance with the jealous other woman meddling plus it was predictable. I liked Sylvie and was sad for her how her life changed.
Part three was the better part but again, Aidan now 36 still acted like a guy in his 20's. It's this part where they finally have sex around 79% of the story but the sex scenes were mediocre.
I have enjoyed many of this authors books but she seems to have lost her mojo of late. This was just a rehash of all the On Dublin street series with Nora's fear of commitment and constant references to Edinburgh street names etc. Plus I could have done without some of the characters having their dialogue written in a Scottish accent. What was the need for that? Aidan was one of her weaker heroes. She has written some great heroes but Aidan didn't do it for me and the spiel that came out of his mouth towards the end seemed a bit too flowery for a man! I just wasn't convinced of their love and I didn't think the story was executed well enough.
My favourite character was Sylvie. I wanted to read more of her in chapter 3, I felt like her character was short changed!
1 star for part one, 2 stars for part two, 3 stars for part three. 2.5 stars overall.
The end of part 2 had me laughing as it read like a plot from a Mills & Boon romance with the jealous other woman meddling plus it was predictable. I liked Sylvie and was sad for her how her life changed.
Part three was the better part but again, Aidan now 36 still acted like a guy in his 20's. It's this part where they finally have sex around 79% of the story but the sex scenes were mediocre.
I have enjoyed many of this authors books but she seems to have lost her mojo of late. This was just a rehash of all the On Dublin street series with Nora's fear of commitment and constant references to Edinburgh street names etc. Plus I could have done without some of the characters having their dialogue written in a Scottish accent. What was the need for that? Aidan was one of her weaker heroes. She has written some great heroes but Aidan didn't do it for me and the spiel that came out of his mouth towards the end seemed a bit too flowery for a man! I just wasn't convinced of their love and I didn't think the story was executed well enough.
My favourite character was Sylvie. I wanted to read more of her in chapter 3, I felt like her character was short changed!
1 star for part one, 2 stars for part two, 3 stars for part three. 2.5 stars overall.
September 23, 2019
Una historia bonita, ligera y llena de romanticismo. Perfecta para desconectar y suspirar un rato.
Lo único que me desagrada, ¡el título! y que encontré algunos errores de traducción y redacción, fuera de eso, me gustó.
Lo único que me desagrada, ¡el título! y que encontré algunos errores de traducción y redacción, fuera de eso, me gustó.
July 13, 2018
This book was something else. I love all the books which have Scotland a part of them. I visited Scotland last year and a piece of my heart is still there. So this book brought back a lot of memories. And I’m grateful for it.
The characters had a chemistry hard to miss and too strong for it not to blow at some point. I loved Nora and Jim... but Nora and Aidan... were so much more. I wanted to read more about that hate Aidan felt for Nora. I always crave for the mean personality of a person, because that way, you can see the other side of someone. Not everything is pink and perfect. Each person has a dark side. And that dark side is attractive for me when I read. I think I may have a problem. :))
Anyway... it was a beautiful book. And I may need a while to think about all the things this book had to teach me. Because I had a lot to learn from it. From family ties to a broken love. 5 stars without a doubt! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Favourite quotes:
“It felt like my heart was breaking from the joy of such a promise from him. I never knew happiness and need and excitement could be painful when you felt them in extremes.”
“Ye’er a mystery, Nora O’Brien. I haven’t met a lot of those lately.”
“Too bad for you I don’t want to be solved.”
“I’ve never understood people who want to be around others when they’re in a black mood. If you can spare people being infected by that crap, why wouldn’t you?”
“As far as you’re concerned, you’re already a ghost in my bed. I’m so fucked in the head over you, I’m willing to be haunted.”
The characters had a chemistry hard to miss and too strong for it not to blow at some point. I loved Nora and Jim... but Nora and Aidan... were so much more. I wanted to read more about that hate Aidan felt for Nora. I always crave for the mean personality of a person, because that way, you can see the other side of someone. Not everything is pink and perfect. Each person has a dark side. And that dark side is attractive for me when I read. I think I may have a problem. :))
Anyway... it was a beautiful book. And I may need a while to think about all the things this book had to teach me. Because I had a lot to learn from it. From family ties to a broken love. 5 stars without a doubt! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Favourite quotes:
“It felt like my heart was breaking from the joy of such a promise from him. I never knew happiness and need and excitement could be painful when you felt them in extremes.”
“Ye’er a mystery, Nora O’Brien. I haven’t met a lot of those lately.”
“Too bad for you I don’t want to be solved.”
“I’ve never understood people who want to be around others when they’re in a black mood. If you can spare people being infected by that crap, why wouldn’t you?”
“As far as you’re concerned, you’re already a ghost in my bed. I’m so fucked in the head over you, I’m willing to be haunted.”
October 5, 2017
Sam Young is easily one of my top authors because when I discovered her "Dublin Series" I crushed hard and became a die hard fan. This addiction continued with all of her books and here I am, reading another thrilling adventure and of course, love story, because duuuuuh, she rocks at it.
"Play On" I believe is her most mature and complex book, looking behind at her previous work. Don't get me wrong, all of her books have complex characters and plot, but I could feel a lot of maturity in this one and a whole other level of awesomeness. It has something different in it and I know her readers could spot the difference "Then and Now".
The books displays Nora, the main female character, in important parts of her life. From my POV, Nora is centered 95% of the book, all the focus being on her. At 18 years old she is left with a workaholic mother and a crippled father, whom she has to take care of. Her dreams of being an actress and starting school are postponed because of financial lacks, but mainly because her family depended on her. One day, she meets Jim, a charming Scottish fellow, who falls in love with her and wants to offer her the world. Because she believes in being more than this, Nora agrees and follows him to Edinburgh, marrying him in the process. From this moment on, Nora left her family behind to follow her dreams and never look back. Only that life is no always the way you plan and unfortunately, this was Nora's case. She finds herself alone in a unknown city, playing Peter Pan at a local hospital and reading stories to sick children and most important, being dangerously attracted to her favorite girl's uncle, Aidan.
This female characters was particularly interesting and complicated, with a lot of focus on feelings, guilt, drama and family issues. Nora always wanted something more from life, something to define her as a woman and individual, but life always had other plans that got in the way. She was tormented by how she left her parents, how she used Jim to get away and how her feelings didn't matched his. Guilt was a constant element in her life and this vulnerability of not being enough. This book was full of pages of her thoughts, fears, dreams and sad moments. She was the most important element. When given a second chance, Nora hesitated much in approaching Aidan, because first, he was older (12 years difference) and second because she felt she was not good enough for him. Aidan is a known person in the music industry, a famous music producer, that worked with tons of famous people and has sky high experience. Only that Nora didn't realize how much she needs him in her life until it's too late... and Part 3 of the books arrives:))) They connected much due to Nora's approach to Sylvie, his niece, and together they became 1 and the same, until I repeat, Part 3 happened.
So, I can go on forever with analyzing this book because you have much to say about the characters, but to make it short.. Why 3.5 stars? Well, because it focused mainly on Nora, and she can be frustrating sometimes with overthinking all the possible situations in life and not go with her feelings. It is tormenting sometimes to be in the head of a characters that doesn't things opposite to your actions. Second because I wanted to get to know Aidan better (he kind of reminded me a little of Braden.. with his alfa and seductive attitude) and third because I think Sam stretched a lot some parts of the book that weren't meant to be so debated and chatted about and rushed the final like " bam-bam, that's it".
3.5 stars for this:)
For more reviews please check https://readwithloveblog.wordpress.com
"Play On" I believe is her most mature and complex book, looking behind at her previous work. Don't get me wrong, all of her books have complex characters and plot, but I could feel a lot of maturity in this one and a whole other level of awesomeness. It has something different in it and I know her readers could spot the difference "Then and Now".
The books displays Nora, the main female character, in important parts of her life. From my POV, Nora is centered 95% of the book, all the focus being on her. At 18 years old she is left with a workaholic mother and a crippled father, whom she has to take care of. Her dreams of being an actress and starting school are postponed because of financial lacks, but mainly because her family depended on her. One day, she meets Jim, a charming Scottish fellow, who falls in love with her and wants to offer her the world. Because she believes in being more than this, Nora agrees and follows him to Edinburgh, marrying him in the process. From this moment on, Nora left her family behind to follow her dreams and never look back. Only that life is no always the way you plan and unfortunately, this was Nora's case. She finds herself alone in a unknown city, playing Peter Pan at a local hospital and reading stories to sick children and most important, being dangerously attracted to her favorite girl's uncle, Aidan.
This female characters was particularly interesting and complicated, with a lot of focus on feelings, guilt, drama and family issues. Nora always wanted something more from life, something to define her as a woman and individual, but life always had other plans that got in the way. She was tormented by how she left her parents, how she used Jim to get away and how her feelings didn't matched his. Guilt was a constant element in her life and this vulnerability of not being enough. This book was full of pages of her thoughts, fears, dreams and sad moments. She was the most important element. When given a second chance, Nora hesitated much in approaching Aidan, because first, he was older (12 years difference) and second because she felt she was not good enough for him. Aidan is a known person in the music industry, a famous music producer, that worked with tons of famous people and has sky high experience. Only that Nora didn't realize how much she needs him in her life until it's too late... and Part 3 of the books arrives:))) They connected much due to Nora's approach to Sylvie, his niece, and together they became 1 and the same, until I repeat, Part 3 happened.
So, I can go on forever with analyzing this book because you have much to say about the characters, but to make it short.. Why 3.5 stars? Well, because it focused mainly on Nora, and she can be frustrating sometimes with overthinking all the possible situations in life and not go with her feelings. It is tormenting sometimes to be in the head of a characters that doesn't things opposite to your actions. Second because I wanted to get to know Aidan better (he kind of reminded me a little of Braden.. with his alfa and seductive attitude) and third because I think Sam stretched a lot some parts of the book that weren't meant to be so debated and chatted about and rushed the final like " bam-bam, that's it".
3.5 stars for this:)
For more reviews please check https://readwithloveblog.wordpress.com
nope
January 2, 2018I hate it when writers focus on one couple for the most part of the book, then write the HEA for another couple at the end.
I don't need that much focus on a hero that the heroine will not end up with...
I don't need that much focus on a hero that the heroine will not end up with...
September 14, 2017
Here I sit with my head still stuck in the clouds, stuck in a story that stole me away to another world. I'm still floating on Cloud Nine. Tears are still etched in my eyes, a soulful mix of swoon and sorrow. The feels won't stop flowing. My soul is still stripped bare from this book. My heart still beats for a book that lifted me up from my everyday life and thrust me to another life across the pond...another world in Scotland. I'm still basking in the beauty of a book that held my heart hostage: PLAY ON by Samantha Young, a romance perfectly synched to my soul with a constant beat of the heart.
Samantha Young's writing SUCKS YOU IN and makes you stay. Play On captivated me from the start. I was UNEQUIVOCALLY CONSUMED by this romance that penetrated every part of me. Play On is an MESMERIZING and MEANINGFUL MASTERPIECE, one I SAVORED like a fine wine, cherishing each drop. Play On, so HEARTFELT and HEADY, was MY DRUG and I was thoroughly ADDICTED. I WAS ALL IN…body…heart…soul…EVERYTHING!!!
Samantha Young crafted a PERFECTLY IMPERFECT hero and heroine with strength in spades, characters with whom I fell in fast love and ones that instantly claimed my heart. Both Nora and Aidan are beautiful inside out. This hero and heroine are beautifully broken but so perfect for each other, two broken halves that make a whole, so raw that they felt real.
Beautiful Nora O'Brien at a young age has had a tough life...to hell and back. A warrior woman, Nora forges on, gaining strength after each battle life bestows upon her. I greatly adored and admired this heroine!
Nora has been burned and is not looking for a relationship, but sometimes fate has other plans.
And I saw it. What I'd been trying so hard not to see. I saw that he wanted me ... like I wanted him.
Aidan Lennox is tall, dark, and utterly handsome. He is a player, a music producer who travels the world with no time for relationships. I LOVED this complex alpha!
"What am I to you?"
"You? You're everything."
These words were EVERYTHING, so beautiful that I melted all over inside. I SWOONED so hard! I felt ALL OF THE FEELS!
Nora and Aidan don't make sense together but like a moth drawn to a flame, they are drawn to one another. Two broken souls searching for solace. Two broken hearts longing to become whole. Two beautiful souls connected by feels and fate.
"Why are you fighting this when you want it?"
"Because—" His mouth crushed down on mine, silencing me.
The chemistry between Nora and Aidan is combustible and unstoppable! I felt the hero and heroines' pull through the pages, a magnetic attraction.
"I don't have stubble burn on my cheeks, do I?"
"No. But you'll most certainly have it between your thighs by tomorrow morning."
HOLY HOT!!! Aidan's magical mouth with heated words made me wanton! I was on FIRE along with the hero and heroine!
Aidan Lennox was going to leave me in pieces.
Play On POSSESSED every part of me, penetrating straight to the heart! The push and pull...the angst that bled had me ON EDGE—so ENTANGLED IN EMOTIONS—where I felt everything this hero and heroine did. I felt the unparalleled intensity and intimacy of this romance with the quick rise and fall of my chest, the way my breaths bated, my pulse pounded, and my heart beat out of its chest.
"If you're to be mine, I need you to be mine, because all of me is yours."
Play On is a book that is HEARTBREAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL! Play On’s powerful and poignant words SHREDDED MY SOUL—where I felt stripped bare—as my emotions belonged to this beautiful book from beginning to end. This love story woven in fate and feels struck me so hard as it held my fragile heart in its hands, shattering it to pieces, and then sewing it back together so many times. I BROKE IN THE BEST BEST WAY!
A union of the heart, mind, and soul, Play On is PERFECTION...Samantha Young's best work yet!!! The beauty of Samantha Young's writing shines through this book, so full of life, love, and loss. Play On is a love story but SO MUCH MORE; it's a story of self-discovery, unbridled strength, fate, and hard fought and forever love.
PLAY ON...oh did this STUNNING STORY play me like a beautiful harp—a MOVING MELODY that moved me so much that I still feel every word...every character...every sensation...EVERYTHING!!! This is a love story with so much heart and soul that you're guaranteed to feel ALL OF THE FEELS!!! I dare you not to feel every word as this romance—so POWERFUL and POIGNANT—plays you in the best way. I FELL IN LOVE…SO MUCH LOVE…OVER AND OVER AGAIN!!!💜
"Sometimes the most beautiful things in life are the messiest."
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 heartbreakingly beautiful stars
A TOP 2017 MASTERPIECE AND MUST-READ ROMANCE!!!
➡️ http://amzn.to/2xvQ36L
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January 4, 2019
Ach ja 😍😍... Samantha Young gehört schon seit ein paar Jahren zu meinen liebsten Autorinnen. Zwar habe ich nicht alle Bücher von ihr gelesen, aber die die ich gelesen habe, habe ich richtig verschlungen!
Sie schafft es einfach jedes Mal wieder männliche Protagonisten zu erschaffen, die einen zum schwärmen bringen 🤤.
In Play On geht es um Nora, die es in ihrem bisherigen Leben nicht einfach hatte und auch während des Buchs muss sie noch einiges einstecken. Trotzdem ist sie ein so liebenswerter Mensch geblieben, dass man sie nur bewundern kann. Ja, sie hat ihre Schwächen und ja, teilweise wirkt es so als würde sie aufgeben, aber sie kämpft sich immer wieder durch und ist danach starker als zuvor 😄.
Übrigens kann ich euch nur empfehlen den Klappentext nicht zu genau zu lesen, denn ca auf Seite 330 (von ungefähr 475) gab es immer noch etwas, das noch nicht vorkam 😳. Das habe ich eher als nervig empfunden, denn so war klar, was noch passieren würde 🙄.
Aidan fand ich einfach toll! Teilweise hat er sich zwar wie ein Vollidiot benommen, aber insgesamt muss man ihn einfach ins Herz schließen 😍🤤.
Manchmal gab es etwas zu viel Drama und gerade eine Sache hätte sich durch ein Gespräch schnell klären lassen, aber was wäre eine Liebesgeschichte schon ohne Drama 🙄😂.
Sie schafft es einfach jedes Mal wieder männliche Protagonisten zu erschaffen, die einen zum schwärmen bringen 🤤.
In Play On geht es um Nora, die es in ihrem bisherigen Leben nicht einfach hatte und auch während des Buchs muss sie noch einiges einstecken. Trotzdem ist sie ein so liebenswerter Mensch geblieben, dass man sie nur bewundern kann. Ja, sie hat ihre Schwächen und ja, teilweise wirkt es so als würde sie aufgeben, aber sie kämpft sich immer wieder durch und ist danach starker als zuvor 😄.
Übrigens kann ich euch nur empfehlen den Klappentext nicht zu genau zu lesen, denn ca auf Seite 330 (von ungefähr 475) gab es immer noch etwas, das noch nicht vorkam 😳. Das habe ich eher als nervig empfunden, denn so war klar, was noch passieren würde 🙄.
Aidan fand ich einfach toll! Teilweise hat er sich zwar wie ein Vollidiot benommen, aber insgesamt muss man ihn einfach ins Herz schließen 😍🤤.
Manchmal gab es etwas zu viel Drama und gerade eine Sache hätte sich durch ein Gespräch schnell klären lassen, aber was wäre eine Liebesgeschichte schon ohne Drama 🙄😂.
November 18, 2017
Did not feel like Samantha Young wrote this book. Hate to say but I really struggled reading it. One of my biggest pet peeves is starting a story with one couple, but they are not the couple at the end. Why do this? I don't want to invest the time reading about them. Ever.
October 17, 2017
This book will be forever special to me!
I know it took a while to finish it, but it was a rough and hard road for me.
I started reading it and the next day my mom passed away, so this will be forever a
special book to me. Because it was here for me when I was already sad, but it stuck with me even though I couldn't get back to reading. It's still very hard and that's why it took so long, it would've been longer if I didn't push through..
The cover is so beautiful, but it was the author and the quotes that hooked me. This isn't always a joyful book it had a lot of sad and still joyful moments. I adored Pixie from the start! She didn't had an easy life and still she did those little visits not only for her but also for the children and that means a lot! I understand all the guilt that's inside Nora and her hard and difficult road to overcome the guilt and let it go. Aiden is easy to like/love although I liked his bossy moments a bit more. I'm glad I got to go on this journey with these wonderful people in this very difficult time for me.
I'm going to buy the paperback because this one has helped me even if it was only a little bit. Just to take my mind of the bad in my life and take me away to Scotland! Which we visited this year with my birthday.
I know it took a while to finish it, but it was a rough and hard road for me.
I started reading it and the next day my mom passed away, so this will be forever a
special book to me. Because it was here for me when I was already sad, but it stuck with me even though I couldn't get back to reading. It's still very hard and that's why it took so long, it would've been longer if I didn't push through..
The cover is so beautiful, but it was the author and the quotes that hooked me. This isn't always a joyful book it had a lot of sad and still joyful moments. I adored Pixie from the start! She didn't had an easy life and still she did those little visits not only for her but also for the children and that means a lot! I understand all the guilt that's inside Nora and her hard and difficult road to overcome the guilt and let it go. Aiden is easy to like/love although I liked his bossy moments a bit more. I'm glad I got to go on this journey with these wonderful people in this very difficult time for me.
I'm going to buy the paperback because this one has helped me even if it was only a little bit. Just to take my mind of the bad in my life and take me away to Scotland! Which we visited this year with my birthday.
August 3, 2017
"At least you're jealous of the living, Nora." He said. "I'm fucking jealous of a dead man."
2017 is the year for Samantha Young! This woman is on fire with the level of books that she has been putting out. She blew me away at her first attempt at YA with The Impossible Vastness of Us, and I'm falling hard for the residents of Hartwell with the Hart's Boardwalk series. It should be no surprise that she stunned me once again with Play On, but I am, because this is not my typical read.
I am an emotional reader, and by that I mean that I take on the heroine's emotions for my own. When it comes to major loss and heartbreak, I usually shy away. But here's the thing about a book written by Sam Young: I will follow wherever she takes me. Even if that is down a path that I don't wish to go, I will follow, because I know that she will never leave me astray. And I was right.
Nora O'Brien had everything, but in a blink of an eye she lost it all. Once an adored only child of two loving parents, she finds herself drudging through life trying to make ends meet with no one to show her the love that she craves. That is until fate steps in and brings her Jim. Jim can offer her everything that she thought that she wanted. A home, a loving family, and a future that can be all her own. At 18 years old, she thought Jim was the answer to all her prayers, but at 18, we don't always make the best decisions.
Now in Scotland, Nora realizes that she was only infatuated with Jim and never in love with him. She owed him everything for getting her out of her crappy life in the states, but her guilt from holding him back from his own true love gnawed at her soul. But her timing was too late to let him go, because before she could, he was gone.
A year down the road Nora is still trudging through her day to day like she was when she was in the States. She's right back where she started, only with more guilt on her shoulders. But there is more light in her life than before.
She has Jim's loving family and friends, but the light that shines the brightest are the children that she volunteer's for at the local children's hospital. It's here that she meets Sylvie. And Sylvie changes everything for Nora.
Nora quickly finds that destiny has its own timing, and rarely does it coincides with what we want. Nora isn't ready to open herself up to someone else, especially someone like Aiden Lennox. What she soon realizes is that Aiden has his own regrets, burden's and heft of guilt. He craves her trust, her friendship and more.
Aiden and Nora's relationship is beyond complicated. But what truly pulled me in was their unconditional love for Sylvie! Oh my goodness, it was incredibly sweet. I love when a child can bring a couple together like this. But Aiden and Nora will have their own hardships, and it nearly BROKE me. Remember how I said that I'm an emotional reader? Yeah. I was dead inside for a little while.
But like only Sam Young can do, she revived me. She brought me back, because that's how she creates her heroines: full or resilience. I ADORED THIS BOOK! It was so hard, but so worthy. If you were a fan of On Dublin Street and Hero, you HAVE to read this book! It will challenge you, it will break you, and it will put you back together.
It was unwise to sweep the pieces of my past behind me simply because some of those pieces were jagged and painful. Each was a piece of a jigsaw, and I was the puzzle. I wasn't complete without them.
2017 is the year for Samantha Young! This woman is on fire with the level of books that she has been putting out. She blew me away at her first attempt at YA with The Impossible Vastness of Us, and I'm falling hard for the residents of Hartwell with the Hart's Boardwalk series. It should be no surprise that she stunned me once again with Play On, but I am, because this is not my typical read.
I am an emotional reader, and by that I mean that I take on the heroine's emotions for my own. When it comes to major loss and heartbreak, I usually shy away. But here's the thing about a book written by Sam Young: I will follow wherever she takes me. Even if that is down a path that I don't wish to go, I will follow, because I know that she will never leave me astray. And I was right.
Nora O'Brien had everything, but in a blink of an eye she lost it all. Once an adored only child of two loving parents, she finds herself drudging through life trying to make ends meet with no one to show her the love that she craves. That is until fate steps in and brings her Jim. Jim can offer her everything that she thought that she wanted. A home, a loving family, and a future that can be all her own. At 18 years old, she thought Jim was the answer to all her prayers, but at 18, we don't always make the best decisions.
Now in Scotland, Nora realizes that she was only infatuated with Jim and never in love with him. She owed him everything for getting her out of her crappy life in the states, but her guilt from holding him back from his own true love gnawed at her soul. But her timing was too late to let him go, because before she could, he was gone.
A year down the road Nora is still trudging through her day to day like she was when she was in the States. She's right back where she started, only with more guilt on her shoulders. But there is more light in her life than before.
She has Jim's loving family and friends, but the light that shines the brightest are the children that she volunteer's for at the local children's hospital. It's here that she meets Sylvie. And Sylvie changes everything for Nora.
Nora quickly finds that destiny has its own timing, and rarely does it coincides with what we want. Nora isn't ready to open herself up to someone else, especially someone like Aiden Lennox. What she soon realizes is that Aiden has his own regrets, burden's and heft of guilt. He craves her trust, her friendship and more.
Aiden and Nora's relationship is beyond complicated. But what truly pulled me in was their unconditional love for Sylvie! Oh my goodness, it was incredibly sweet. I love when a child can bring a couple together like this. But Aiden and Nora will have their own hardships, and it nearly BROKE me. Remember how I said that I'm an emotional reader? Yeah. I was dead inside for a little while.
But like only Sam Young can do, she revived me. She brought me back, because that's how she creates her heroines: full or resilience. I ADORED THIS BOOK! It was so hard, but so worthy. If you were a fan of On Dublin Street and Hero, you HAVE to read this book! It will challenge you, it will break you, and it will put you back together.
It was unwise to sweep the pieces of my past behind me simply because some of those pieces were jagged and painful. Each was a piece of a jigsaw, and I was the puzzle. I wasn't complete without them.
April 16, 2018
I was debating if I should give this story four or five stars..
I enjoyed this book alot but there were a few bits in this book which I didn't enjoy.
The characters were fab, I loved them all. I really liked the writing style and I've read a few books by this author, I really enjoy her books.
The beginning of this book was great, I wasn't too fond of what happened to jim though.
The romance between Nora and Aidan was perfect, loved that this story had a timeline. Very cute! Loved them together.
Four stars from me.
:)
I enjoyed this book alot but there were a few bits in this book which I didn't enjoy.
The characters were fab, I loved them all. I really liked the writing style and I've read a few books by this author, I really enjoy her books.
The beginning of this book was great, I wasn't too fond of what happened to jim though.
The romance between Nora and Aidan was perfect, loved that this story had a timeline. Very cute! Loved them together.
Four stars from me.
:)
September 15, 2017
3.5 stars
That bit in the middle was a 5 star read. I loved Nora, Adrian and Sylvie.
That bit at the beginning and the end, not so much.
I liked the plot, but could have done without the depth of her first relationship. The ending, the way she kept pushing him away although the secret was out, was a tad too annoying i skimmed right through.
Overall a great plot, however i felt there was too many bad things happening to the heroine, talk about shit luck eh?!
That bit in the middle was a 5 star read. I loved Nora, Adrian and Sylvie.
That bit at the beginning and the end, not so much.
I liked the plot, but could have done without the depth of her first relationship. The ending, the way she kept pushing him away although the secret was out, was a tad too annoying i skimmed right through.
Overall a great plot, however i felt there was too many bad things happening to the heroine, talk about shit luck eh?!
August 24, 2017
Play On, at heart, is a story of the series of fateful events that bring a lonely young woman right where she was always meant to be. Far more than a love story, Play On is Nora's journey toward finding herself, to understanding her worth. While this story is certainly rife with romance and drama and sensuality, it's bigger than just her search for a happily ever after. Nora's life is complicated and messy and peppered with heartache and loss. Her path, all that inevitably brings her exactly where she needs to be, is a story worth reading all by itself. It's beautiful and magical and painful, and the ultimate love story within these pages is simply the icing on a deliciously addictive cake.
Play On is the perfect demonstration of what a beautiful storyteller Samantha Young truly is. Her writing is as polished and lovely as it's ever been in this book and I was swept away by her words. This story felt like an adventure, with Young once again carrying me away to Edinburgh. If you've read this author's work before, you know her most unforgettable, most epic love stories take place on these Scottish streets, and Play On can now be added to that list as one of her most lush love stories to date.
Reading this book is like climbing a mountain. The further you trek, the more exciting the story gets. Play On is broken into three parts and by the third, the anticipation of reaching the summit is tortuous. It's rough and messy and difficult and wondrous, this climb, and the thrilling climax is so worth the wait. I found that final part to be the most gripping, the most emotional, the most unforgettable, the most unputdownable of the entire book. Everything Nora had gone through had brought her to this place and seeing everything come together, all the tragedy and heartbreak and personal growth culminate into this beautifully satisfying conclusion, is so perfect, so well worth the bumpy journey.
This is such a beautiful story, a magical romance between two people who don't fit together on paper but whose connection is unrelenting. This story is sad and infuriating at times, angsty and sexy often, peppered heavily with humor and sharp banter and ultimately it's full of joy. I so enjoyed this book. I loved these characters, loved this journey, loved that this story felt fresh and new even as the author took us back to a place so familiar. Play On is an unforgettable love story between wholly unforgettable characters and with each turn of the page, I came to love this story more and more.
Play On is the perfect demonstration of what a beautiful storyteller Samantha Young truly is. Her writing is as polished and lovely as it's ever been in this book and I was swept away by her words. This story felt like an adventure, with Young once again carrying me away to Edinburgh. If you've read this author's work before, you know her most unforgettable, most epic love stories take place on these Scottish streets, and Play On can now be added to that list as one of her most lush love stories to date.
Reading this book is like climbing a mountain. The further you trek, the more exciting the story gets. Play On is broken into three parts and by the third, the anticipation of reaching the summit is tortuous. It's rough and messy and difficult and wondrous, this climb, and the thrilling climax is so worth the wait. I found that final part to be the most gripping, the most emotional, the most unforgettable, the most unputdownable of the entire book. Everything Nora had gone through had brought her to this place and seeing everything come together, all the tragedy and heartbreak and personal growth culminate into this beautifully satisfying conclusion, is so perfect, so well worth the bumpy journey.
This is such a beautiful story, a magical romance between two people who don't fit together on paper but whose connection is unrelenting. This story is sad and infuriating at times, angsty and sexy often, peppered heavily with humor and sharp banter and ultimately it's full of joy. I so enjoyed this book. I loved these characters, loved this journey, loved that this story felt fresh and new even as the author took us back to a place so familiar. Play On is an unforgettable love story between wholly unforgettable characters and with each turn of the page, I came to love this story more and more.
September 15, 2017
4,5. Esse livro é angst total, mas simplesmente maravilhoso. A autora descreve o amadurecimento da personagem principal com tamanha perfeição que não tem como não se emocionar e adorar sua trajetória.
Vale muito a leitura.
Vale muito a leitura.
May 8, 2020
4 STARS
not-interested
September 17, 2017
October 17, 2017
Originally posted at Booklovers For Life
3.5 STARS
I’ve been a big fan of Samantha Young’s ever since reading On Dublin Street, so when I heard she’d be writing a new book, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. Play On is a deeply emotional standalone that deals with love, life, and loss. It wasn’t quite the read I was expecting, but I enjoyed it overall. I love getting to travel the world through books, and Samantha Young sweeps us away to beautiful Scotland where our heroine Nora deals with her struggles.
Nora is eighteen and stuck in a rut – working at a fast food restaurant, unable to afford going to college, and no opportunities looking her way. That is, until she meets the sweet, Scottish Jim McAlister who steals her heart and brings her back with him to Scotland. But three years later, she’s alone and barely making ends meet. The only light in her life is her days volunteering at a hospital where she entertains children with her Peter Pan persona. One of her favorite kids has an uncle who is gorgeous, older, more sophisticated… and he wants Nora. How does she resist the man Aidan Lennox is?
Play On is essentially broken up into three parts – Nora at eighteen and meeting Jim, three years later with Nora first meeting Aidan, and two years after that with Nora reuniting with Aidan. I loved the concept of this, but the execution of it wasn’t my cup of tea. My biggest concern was how the blurb set the story up to be mainly about Nora and her career on stage after losing Aidan. That turned out to be the third part at the very end of the novel and took up the shortest time in the story. I wish we could’ve seen more of their time apart and how Nora grew into her acting career, and I wish Aidan’s love of music and Nora’s acting had played bigger roles in this book.
Despite these grievances, I really did enjoy this book overall. Samantha Young didn’t disappoint with the chemistry and sexual tension between Nora and Aidan. The way they dealt with loss was moving and beautiful. I’m excited to see what else Samantha Young has in store for us with this series of standalones!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.
Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/2vuh72a
Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/2gO2fpi
Liked this review? Subscribe to Booklovers For Life for more!
3.5 STARS
I’ve been a big fan of Samantha Young’s ever since reading On Dublin Street, so when I heard she’d be writing a new book, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. Play On is a deeply emotional standalone that deals with love, life, and loss. It wasn’t quite the read I was expecting, but I enjoyed it overall. I love getting to travel the world through books, and Samantha Young sweeps us away to beautiful Scotland where our heroine Nora deals with her struggles.
Nora is eighteen and stuck in a rut – working at a fast food restaurant, unable to afford going to college, and no opportunities looking her way. That is, until she meets the sweet, Scottish Jim McAlister who steals her heart and brings her back with him to Scotland. But three years later, she’s alone and barely making ends meet. The only light in her life is her days volunteering at a hospital where she entertains children with her Peter Pan persona. One of her favorite kids has an uncle who is gorgeous, older, more sophisticated… and he wants Nora. How does she resist the man Aidan Lennox is?
“You’re everything to me, Nora. Every bloody thing. I never knew happiness like it until I met you.”
Play On is essentially broken up into three parts – Nora at eighteen and meeting Jim, three years later with Nora first meeting Aidan, and two years after that with Nora reuniting with Aidan. I loved the concept of this, but the execution of it wasn’t my cup of tea. My biggest concern was how the blurb set the story up to be mainly about Nora and her career on stage after losing Aidan. That turned out to be the third part at the very end of the novel and took up the shortest time in the story. I wish we could’ve seen more of their time apart and how Nora grew into her acting career, and I wish Aidan’s love of music and Nora’s acting had played bigger roles in this book.
Despite these grievances, I really did enjoy this book overall. Samantha Young didn’t disappoint with the chemistry and sexual tension between Nora and Aidan. The way they dealt with loss was moving and beautiful. I’m excited to see what else Samantha Young has in store for us with this series of standalones!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Quotes are taken from the ARC and are subject to change in the final version.
Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/2vuh72a
Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/2gO2fpi
Liked this review? Subscribe to Booklovers For Life for more!
September 9, 2017
I discovered Samantha Young’s writing not too long ago and I have yet to make it through all of her work, but what I have read, well, it’s a cut above the rest I assure you. She brings us beautiful and complex romances that are truly unforgettable. The characters that she brings to life with her words are extraordinary and completely remarkable. Ms. Young’s writing is impeccable, fierce, and smart. Her love stories are a thing of beauty that stay with you long after the last page has turned. All of that being said, PLAY ON, her latest romance, is all that and so much more! This outstanding romance is about loss, love, and redemption. It’s about finding yourself and forgiving yourself for things that are outside of your control. It’s about growing, learning, and sacrifice. I’m telling you...PLAY ON has EVERYTHING you could ever want in an EPIC ROMANCE READ!
“Love me in the knowledge that you’re the only man I’ll ever want like this.”
Nora and Aidan will not only frustrate you at times, they will run away with your heart and never look back. These two have that spark...that undeniable chemistry, but the timing and circumstance was not on their side, until it was. But that’s not the end of it, it’s only the beginning because these two go through a lot together and apart, and when they finally find their way back to each other, they are different people, or so one of them claims.
PLAY ON quickly broke my heart, and the journey to mend was painful and beautiful. Ms. Young brings the SWEET and the SEXY. That, combined with a poignant storyline and enough angst to make your heart feel like it’s going to beat right out of your chest, makes Nora and Aidan’s happily ever after, one you will NEVER FORGET.
“Love me in the knowledge that you’re the only man I’ll ever want like this.”
Nora and Aidan will not only frustrate you at times, they will run away with your heart and never look back. These two have that spark...that undeniable chemistry, but the timing and circumstance was not on their side, until it was. But that’s not the end of it, it’s only the beginning because these two go through a lot together and apart, and when they finally find their way back to each other, they are different people, or so one of them claims.
PLAY ON quickly broke my heart, and the journey to mend was painful and beautiful. Ms. Young brings the SWEET and the SEXY. That, combined with a poignant storyline and enough angst to make your heart feel like it’s going to beat right out of your chest, makes Nora and Aidan’s happily ever after, one you will NEVER FORGET.
September 26, 2017
My feelings for Play On are all over the place, don't get me wrong I enjoyed the story but at times Nora annoyed me SO MUCH and if you have read the blurb this does not actually come into the story until 67%.
The first 67% is about Nora, her life and guilt for EVERYTHING she has ever done, (seriously girl stop moping and dressing up) why does her volunteering have to be such a secret? What she does is wonderful and she makes everything so complicated.
I liked the way SY wrote the time jumps I wish other authors would do it like this.
Aiden I liked he is the usual bossy sexy alpha that SY writes fantastically. I felt for him with what he goes through and I understood why he felt the way he did when they are reunited if Nora just explained everything all the drama could be avoided but oh no Nora had to hide and think about it over and over and OVER and make everything ten times worse.
This is low on steam as well not much sex.
This felt to me like I spent half the story inside Nora's mind and that was not a fun place to be and it got to the point that I was not in a rush to pick it up as it took me over a week to read but I was determined I was going to finish it last night.
Please do not stop my review from you reading Play On as I am having trouble lately concentrating on reading even favourite authors have ended up being dnf (hope this mood passes SOON).
The first 67% is about Nora, her life and guilt for EVERYTHING she has ever done, (seriously girl stop moping and dressing up) why does her volunteering have to be such a secret? What she does is wonderful and she makes everything so complicated.
I liked the way SY wrote the time jumps I wish other authors would do it like this.
Aiden I liked he is the usual bossy sexy alpha that SY writes fantastically. I felt for him with what he goes through and I understood why he felt the way he did when they are reunited if Nora just explained everything all the drama could be avoided but oh no Nora had to hide and think about it over and over and OVER and make everything ten times worse.
This is low on steam as well not much sex.
This felt to me like I spent half the story inside Nora's mind and that was not a fun place to be and it got to the point that I was not in a rush to pick it up as it took me over a week to read but I was determined I was going to finish it last night.
Please do not stop my review from you reading Play On as I am having trouble lately concentrating on reading even favourite authors have ended up being dnf (hope this mood passes SOON).
September 23, 2017
4 * Magnificent, Pixie* estrelas
Yeahhhhh estava com uma vontade louca de ler um romance bom, daqueles que te prende e faz tu suspirar, ter raiva, querer arrancar os cabelos e esses sentimentos maravilhoso que temos *SQN* .
Play On é aquele livro que eu peguei pra ler e quando não tava lendo ele, tava pensando nele.
A Nora é a personagem principal que dá muita raiva em algumas partes, mas tentei ter empatia e me colocar no lugar dela pra tentar entender algumas atitudes, mesmo assim falhei em alguns momentos miseravelmente, já o Aiden *suspiros* adorei tudo nele, já quero um pra mim *onde compra?*.
Resumindo é um excelente livro pra passar o tempo e se apaixonar pela beleza de Edimburgo *já queria fazer minhas malas e ir pra lá*.
Yeahhhhh estava com uma vontade louca de ler um romance bom, daqueles que te prende e faz tu suspirar, ter raiva, querer arrancar os cabelos e esses sentimentos maravilhoso que temos *SQN* .
Play On é aquele livro que eu peguei pra ler e quando não tava lendo ele, tava pensando nele.
A Nora é a personagem principal que dá muita raiva em algumas partes, mas tentei ter empatia e me colocar no lugar dela pra tentar entender algumas atitudes, mesmo assim falhei em alguns momentos miseravelmente, já o Aiden *suspiros* adorei tudo nele, já quero um pra mim *onde compra?*.
Resumindo é um excelente livro pra passar o tempo e se apaixonar pela beleza de Edimburgo *já queria fazer minhas malas e ir pra lá*.
March 8, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. It's been on my TBR list for so long I'm glad I finally got around it it. The story was so good I luvd the characters. The story had me hook I really liked the few twisted that were thrown in. I was dying to know what was going to happen to Nora it is a brilliant character. She didn't have an easy life and she deserved to be happy. I would recommend this book.
January 27, 2020
Precioso.... una historia emotiva en la que la protagonista nos desnuda su alma. El final es un poco previsible y apresurado para mi gusto.
September 12, 2017
5 Finding Yourself Again Stars!
“In here, we were in our weird little bubble; I felt protected by that bubble. If we steeped outside, all the differences between us would only be amplified. In here we were just two people who cared for Sylvie and I could get past my insecurities around him.”
“I feared having my heart broken again. And somehow, instinctually, I just knew that giving Aidan even a little of me and having him reject it it would hurt more than any other man’s rejection.”
“Sometimes the most beautiful things in life are the messiest.”
All her life, Nora O’Brien has been chasing her dreams and desperately trying to make them come true. No matter what life threw at her or how it changed her plans, deep down inside, she always held on to the hope. It took meeting a mysterious stranger and being presented an opportunity of a lifetime, for Nora to open her eyes and take a leap. And while Nora may have moved on and escaped her home life, life in Scotland was nothing like she expected. That is in until Aidan enters her life. Complete and total opposites, Nora and Aidan couldn’t be more wrong for each other. But it was their differences and the undeniable pull that brought them closer together. The chemistry and connection consuming the two of them beyond belief, somehow giving them exactly what they needed. That is until fate deals another nasty hand, leaving them both shattered beyond repair. Only time will tell if Nora and Aidan will be able to dig themselves from beneath the rubble. A love like theirs is too strong just die……..
Play On is the first book in an exciting new series from author Samantha Young. From the moment we meet Nora, we can’t help but be captivated and intrigued by this young woman. Life has dealt her many tough hands, leaving her lost and conflicted about her place in life. At times I found myself very protective of Nora. I wanted to hug her and tell her that everything would work out. Yes, she was frustrating at times, but I got her. I understood why she was at such a standstill in her life. She had to grow up too fast and had so much growing up to do. I think Aidan appeared in her life at just the right time. He made her open her eyes and see what she was missing; see what could have been. Their journey was not an easy one. These two were so unbelievably different, but oh, so right for each other. Aidan was smart, sophisticated and wise beyond his years. He was devoted to Nora and wanted the best things for her. He too frustrated me at times. Yes, there were some moments where I just wanted to shake some sense into him. But that just made me love his character even more. The imperfections and human moments.
Play On is incredibly well written and is so much more than just a second chance romance. Play On is a story of loss and forgiveness. It is a story about being stuck and utterly lost. It is a story of making mistakes and dealing with the cards life hands you. It is a story of discovery and finding oneself and learning to like the person you are despite all your imperfections. This is a story of finding peace with the life you have and when being presented that second chance, you grab on to it with everything that you are. This is a story of never giving up and believing in the power of love.
I think this new series is off to an amazing start. Play On was such an incredible and heartwarming read, I know I didn’t see it coming. Nora and Aidan’s story will consume you and take your emotions on one extraordinary journey.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“In here, we were in our weird little bubble; I felt protected by that bubble. If we steeped outside, all the differences between us would only be amplified. In here we were just two people who cared for Sylvie and I could get past my insecurities around him.”
“I feared having my heart broken again. And somehow, instinctually, I just knew that giving Aidan even a little of me and having him reject it it would hurt more than any other man’s rejection.”
“Sometimes the most beautiful things in life are the messiest.”
All her life, Nora O’Brien has been chasing her dreams and desperately trying to make them come true. No matter what life threw at her or how it changed her plans, deep down inside, she always held on to the hope. It took meeting a mysterious stranger and being presented an opportunity of a lifetime, for Nora to open her eyes and take a leap. And while Nora may have moved on and escaped her home life, life in Scotland was nothing like she expected. That is in until Aidan enters her life. Complete and total opposites, Nora and Aidan couldn’t be more wrong for each other. But it was their differences and the undeniable pull that brought them closer together. The chemistry and connection consuming the two of them beyond belief, somehow giving them exactly what they needed. That is until fate deals another nasty hand, leaving them both shattered beyond repair. Only time will tell if Nora and Aidan will be able to dig themselves from beneath the rubble. A love like theirs is too strong just die……..
Play On is the first book in an exciting new series from author Samantha Young. From the moment we meet Nora, we can’t help but be captivated and intrigued by this young woman. Life has dealt her many tough hands, leaving her lost and conflicted about her place in life. At times I found myself very protective of Nora. I wanted to hug her and tell her that everything would work out. Yes, she was frustrating at times, but I got her. I understood why she was at such a standstill in her life. She had to grow up too fast and had so much growing up to do. I think Aidan appeared in her life at just the right time. He made her open her eyes and see what she was missing; see what could have been. Their journey was not an easy one. These two were so unbelievably different, but oh, so right for each other. Aidan was smart, sophisticated and wise beyond his years. He was devoted to Nora and wanted the best things for her. He too frustrated me at times. Yes, there were some moments where I just wanted to shake some sense into him. But that just made me love his character even more. The imperfections and human moments.
Play On is incredibly well written and is so much more than just a second chance romance. Play On is a story of loss and forgiveness. It is a story about being stuck and utterly lost. It is a story of making mistakes and dealing with the cards life hands you. It is a story of discovery and finding oneself and learning to like the person you are despite all your imperfections. This is a story of finding peace with the life you have and when being presented that second chance, you grab on to it with everything that you are. This is a story of never giving up and believing in the power of love.
I think this new series is off to an amazing start. Play On was such an incredible and heartwarming read, I know I didn’t see it coming. Nora and Aidan’s story will consume you and take your emotions on one extraordinary journey.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
September 11, 2017
ARC received for an honest review
I would pick up the phone book if Samantha Young wrote it, and even though I am not a big fan of YA (I am an old fart, they often feel wwaaaaaayy too young for me), I completely adored Play On.
I am not going to lie, I did struggle getting into the first 20% of the book. I can't pinpoint exactly what it was, but I did.
Once we got past that, I was completely and utterly hooked. Nora's story is not always an easy one. I liked her from the start, and as the story continued, I couldn't help but love her
And then there is Aidan. He made me all kinds of swoony - when he wasn't ticking me off!
I couldn't help but need this pair to make a real go of things. It just had to happen, I wouldn't have it any other way!
Play On had a bit of everything. I laughed, I cried, I got so so angry at times and yelled at my kindle. But most of all I hoped and I loved.
There are some fantastic secondary characters whom I hope to see more of in the future.
Can't wait for book 2 (at this stage untitled and no idea when it will be released)
Bring it on! Now I need to go to Edinburgh and find my own sexy Scotsman!
I would pick up the phone book if Samantha Young wrote it, and even though I am not a big fan of YA (I am an old fart, they often feel wwaaaaaayy too young for me), I completely adored Play On.
I am not going to lie, I did struggle getting into the first 20% of the book. I can't pinpoint exactly what it was, but I did.
Once we got past that, I was completely and utterly hooked. Nora's story is not always an easy one. I liked her from the start, and as the story continued, I couldn't help but love her
And then there is Aidan. He made me all kinds of swoony - when he wasn't ticking me off!
I couldn't help but need this pair to make a real go of things. It just had to happen, I wouldn't have it any other way!
Play On had a bit of everything. I laughed, I cried, I got so so angry at times and yelled at my kindle. But most of all I hoped and I loved.
There are some fantastic secondary characters whom I hope to see more of in the future.
Can't wait for book 2 (at this stage untitled and no idea when it will be released)
Bring it on! Now I need to go to Edinburgh and find my own sexy Scotsman!
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