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Games #2
Wild Games - Mit einem einzigen Kuss: Roman (Wild-Games-Reihe 2)
Wie konnte das nur passieren? Statt die nächste Köstlichkeit zu backen, findet sich Konditorin Katie plötzlich in einer Reality-Show wieder! Natürlich kann sie das Preisgeld für ihre frisch eröffnete Bäckerei gut gebrauchen, aber dass sie dafür ausgerechnet mit dem Rockstar Liam zusammenarbeiten muss, ist wirklich eine harte Nuss. Vor allen Dingen, seitdem sie eine heiße Romanze vortäuschen, um nicht aus der Show zu fliegen. Denn Katie weiß schon bald nicht mehr, was gespielt ist - und was echt ...
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2013
71 people are currently reading
1840 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Clare
69 books4,461 followersThis is a pen name for Jill Myles.
Jill Myles has been an incurable romantic since childhood. She reads all the 'naughty parts' of books first, looks for a dirty joke in just about everything, and thinks to this day that the Little House on the Prairie books should have been steamier.
After devouring hundreds of paperback romances, mythology books, and archaeological tomes, she decided to write a few books of her own - stories with a wild adventure, sharp banter, and lots of super-sexy situations. She prefers her heroes alpha and half-dressed, her heroines witty, and she loves nothing more than watching them overcome adversity to fall into bed together.
Jill Myles has been an incurable romantic since childhood. She reads all the 'naughty parts' of books first, looks for a dirty joke in just about everything, and thinks to this day that the Little House on the Prairie books should have been steamier.
After devouring hundreds of paperback romances, mythology books, and archaeological tomes, she decided to write a few books of her own - stories with a wild adventure, sharp banter, and lots of super-sexy situations. She prefers her heroes alpha and half-dressed, her heroines witty, and she loves nothing more than watching them overcome adversity to fall into bed together.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
May 31, 2020
In einem Rutsch weggelesen! War wieder grandios!
Weiß gar nicht warum die Bücher so unbekannt sind... Die Idee dahinter ist so einfach wie genial wie einzigartig. Wir befinden uns mit unseren Protagonisten jeweils in einer Game- bzw. Reality-Show. Diesmal befinden wir uns zusammen mit Katy, die eigentlich nur ihren Bruder unterstützen wollte in einem Rennen um die Welt. Dabei stößt sie auf Liam, einen Rockstar, der mit seiner Bandkollegin ebenfalls an der Show teilnimmt.
Ich habe es wieder komplett geliebt: die Reise um die Welt, die Spiele, die Charaktere. Es gibt für mich absolut nichts zu bemängeln. Klar ist es aufgrund der Kürze nicht wirklich tiefgründig, aber ich wurde wieder perfekt unterhalten. Also wer eine lustige, prickelnde Geschichte für einen Tag in der Sonne sucht: lest es! :)
Weiß gar nicht warum die Bücher so unbekannt sind... Die Idee dahinter ist so einfach wie genial wie einzigartig. Wir befinden uns mit unseren Protagonisten jeweils in einer Game- bzw. Reality-Show. Diesmal befinden wir uns zusammen mit Katy, die eigentlich nur ihren Bruder unterstützen wollte in einem Rennen um die Welt. Dabei stößt sie auf Liam, einen Rockstar, der mit seiner Bandkollegin ebenfalls an der Show teilnimmt.
Ich habe es wieder komplett geliebt: die Reise um die Welt, die Spiele, die Charaktere. Es gibt für mich absolut nichts zu bemängeln. Klar ist es aufgrund der Kürze nicht wirklich tiefgründig, aber ich wurde wieder perfekt unterhalten. Also wer eine lustige, prickelnde Geschichte für einen Tag in der Sonne sucht: lest es! :)
July 31, 2016
4.5 Stars
I am loving this series. They're short, sharp books filled with adventure, romance, and steam.
I am loving this series. They're short, sharp books filled with adventure, romance, and steam.
June 17, 2013
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I LOVED Playing Games AS MUCH as i LOVED Wicked Games!!! OMG... can i saw OMG anymore???!!! I SURE CAN!!! Because this story was EVERYTHING!!! It was sweet, and funny and sexy as hell!!! AND (here comes another...) OMG LIAM!!! He was BEYOND AMAZING!!! SOOOO SWEET and UNBELIEVABLY SEXY!!! And (wait for it...) SQUEAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The dude is pierced and tattooed EVERYWHERE... his tongue piercing AND that "other" piercing just made me TOTALLY jealous of Katy! LOL!! OH GOD, i just swooned thinking about it again!!!
It was like watching the Amazing Race (which i absolutely love), but in this case, i was just reading about it! Liam and Katy made such a cute couple and it was so cool catching up with Dean and Abby again (from Wicked Games)!!
AS USUAL Ms. Myles you have BLOWN ME AWAY with another story!!! YOUR WRITING TOTALLY ROCKS!!!!!
It was like watching the Amazing Race (which i absolutely love), but in this case, i was just reading about it! Liam and Katy made such a cute couple and it was so cool catching up with Dean and Abby again (from Wicked Games)!!
AS USUAL Ms. Myles you have BLOWN ME AWAY with another story!!! YOUR WRITING TOTALLY ROCKS!!!!!
April 9, 2019
Ich liebe diese Reihe einfach. Danke Jessica Clare dafür!
June 21, 2017
The Amazing Race - Jessica Clare style.
This is a fast paced read that was fun and sexy. The hero and heroine are extremely likable and the villain is not your average bad guy. Low in angst, high in steam. This is written in Katy’s point of view although Liam’s interview remarks begin each chapter. Completely safe and trigger free.
This is a fast paced read that was fun and sexy. The hero and heroine are extremely likable and the villain is not your average bad guy. Low in angst, high in steam. This is written in Katy’s point of view although Liam’s interview remarks begin each chapter. Completely safe and trigger free.
June 16, 2021
4.5 Sterne
Endlich wieder ein Roman von Jessica Clare der sein Weg auf meine Leseliste gefunden hat. Denn Wild Games - Mit einem einzigen Kuss liegt schon ein paar Tage ungelesen in meinem Regal. Allerdings hat sich vor ein paar tagen so langsam ein leichter Entzug bei mir eingestellt, sodass ich einfach zu diesem Buch greifen musste. Denn für mich sind die Bücher der Autorin perfekte, lustige und sexy Bücher für zwischendurch. Einfach etwas wodurch man abschalten kann. Und da war das zweite Buch der Wild Games Reihe definitiv keine Ausnahme.
Wie ist Katy nur in diesen Zirkus hineingeraten? Denn eigentlich wollte die Konditorin Katy bei dem Casting zur Reality-Show "World Races" nur ihren Bruder unterstützen. Doch plötzlich bilden sie als Geschwisterpaar eins der Teams die bei der Sendung gegeneinander antreten. Allerdings kann sie das Geld gut für ihre Bäckerei brauchen. Und gewinnen muss sie dafür ja nicht einmal. Als es dann jedoch zu einem Partnertausch kommt, und Katy plötzlich ein Team mit dem Rockstar Liam Brogan bilden muss, ist sie vollkommen verwirrt. Denn plötzlich scheint dieser verrückte Wettbewerb gar nicht mehr so schlimm zu sein.
Oh man, ich liebe Katy! Ja sie war wirklich eine Protagonistin nach meinem Geschmack. Sie war frech und witzig und dazu noch ziemlich sarkastisch (darin erkenne ich mich grundsätzlich wieder). Aber sie war auch süß, nett und absolut loyal. Manchmal gegenüber ihrem Bruder sogar etwas zu sehr, sodass ich manchmal etwas den Kopf über sie geschüttelt habe. Aber so ist das meistens bei Familienmitgliedern. Und als Katy dann auch noch gezeigt hat, wie ehrgeizig sie sein kann und wirklich für sich und Liam gekämpft hat, wusste ich einfach, dass sie eine wirklich tolle Protagonistin ist. So eine, die man einfach gerne als beste Freundin haben möchte, weil man weiß, dass sie immer hinter einem steht.
Und Liam? Der ist dieser sexy raue, von oben bis unten tätowierte Musiker. Der dazu auch noch Piercings an ganz interessanten Orten hat. Und glaubt mir, ich verstehe warum Katy davon so fasziniert war. Aber Liam ist eben nur auf den ersten Blick dieser Bad Boy. Denn eigentlich mag er dieses Rampenlicht überhaupt nicht und das macht ihn irgendwie unglaublich sympathisch. Er ist einfach ein süßer und sexy Protagonist. Und genau wie Katy habe ich mich ein wenig (na gut, Katy hat sich nicht nur ein wenig) in ihn verliebt.
Wenn zwei so tolle Charaktere aufeinander treffen, dann ist es meist wirklich nicht schwierig zu erraten, dass die Funken nur so fliegen. Und genau das sind sie auch zwischen Katy und Liam. Und das schon seit ihrem ersten unglücklichen zusammentreffen. Und ich habe wirklich mit ihnen mitgefiebert in der Türkei. Gelacht als die beiden in Griechenland waren. Und als sie in Italien angekommen sind, habe ich mein Herz mit ihnen verloren. Und immer war die Chemie zu spüren. Wirklich eine Beziehung, bei der einem selbst als Leser das Herz höher schlägt.
Eine Sache hat mich allerdings richtig genervt. Naja, oder nicht eine Sache. Eher eine Person. Und das war Brodie, der Bruder von Katy. Gott dieser Typ ist mir so auf die Nerven gegangen. Mit seiner ganzen hinterhältigen und selbstverliebten Art, war er so anstrengend. Ich war wirklich über jedes Kapitel froh, wo ich ihn nicht ertragen musste. Und das Katy ihm am Ende auch nicht mehr so loyal gegenüber war, war super.
Abschließend kann ich eigentlich nur noch sagen, dass Wild Games - Mit einem einzigen Kuss mir sogar um einiges besser gefallen hat als das erste Buch der Reihe. Ich liebe diese verschiedenen Settings und die wirklich spannenden Aufgaben die die Teilnehmer der "World Races" bewältigen mussten. Und natürlich bin ich immer noch restlos verzaubert von der Liebesgeschichte zwischen Katy und Liam. Für mich ist dieses Buch und alle anderen von Jessica Clare ein absolutes Muss für New-Adult und Romantic-Comedy Fans.
Endlich wieder ein Roman von Jessica Clare der sein Weg auf meine Leseliste gefunden hat. Denn Wild Games - Mit einem einzigen Kuss liegt schon ein paar Tage ungelesen in meinem Regal. Allerdings hat sich vor ein paar tagen so langsam ein leichter Entzug bei mir eingestellt, sodass ich einfach zu diesem Buch greifen musste. Denn für mich sind die Bücher der Autorin perfekte, lustige und sexy Bücher für zwischendurch. Einfach etwas wodurch man abschalten kann. Und da war das zweite Buch der Wild Games Reihe definitiv keine Ausnahme.
Wie ist Katy nur in diesen Zirkus hineingeraten? Denn eigentlich wollte die Konditorin Katy bei dem Casting zur Reality-Show "World Races" nur ihren Bruder unterstützen. Doch plötzlich bilden sie als Geschwisterpaar eins der Teams die bei der Sendung gegeneinander antreten. Allerdings kann sie das Geld gut für ihre Bäckerei brauchen. Und gewinnen muss sie dafür ja nicht einmal. Als es dann jedoch zu einem Partnertausch kommt, und Katy plötzlich ein Team mit dem Rockstar Liam Brogan bilden muss, ist sie vollkommen verwirrt. Denn plötzlich scheint dieser verrückte Wettbewerb gar nicht mehr so schlimm zu sein.
"Mit einem Partnerwechsel habe ich nicht gerechnet, und schon gar nicht damit, jemanden wie Katy kennenzulernen. Sie ist, na ja, ziemlich klasse."
Oh man, ich liebe Katy! Ja sie war wirklich eine Protagonistin nach meinem Geschmack. Sie war frech und witzig und dazu noch ziemlich sarkastisch (darin erkenne ich mich grundsätzlich wieder). Aber sie war auch süß, nett und absolut loyal. Manchmal gegenüber ihrem Bruder sogar etwas zu sehr, sodass ich manchmal etwas den Kopf über sie geschüttelt habe. Aber so ist das meistens bei Familienmitgliedern. Und als Katy dann auch noch gezeigt hat, wie ehrgeizig sie sein kann und wirklich für sich und Liam gekämpft hat, wusste ich einfach, dass sie eine wirklich tolle Protagonistin ist. So eine, die man einfach gerne als beste Freundin haben möchte, weil man weiß, dass sie immer hinter einem steht.
Und Liam? Der ist dieser sexy raue, von oben bis unten tätowierte Musiker. Der dazu auch noch Piercings an ganz interessanten Orten hat. Und glaubt mir, ich verstehe warum Katy davon so fasziniert war. Aber Liam ist eben nur auf den ersten Blick dieser Bad Boy. Denn eigentlich mag er dieses Rampenlicht überhaupt nicht und das macht ihn irgendwie unglaublich sympathisch. Er ist einfach ein süßer und sexy Protagonist. Und genau wie Katy habe ich mich ein wenig (na gut, Katy hat sich nicht nur ein wenig) in ihn verliebt.
Wenn zwei so tolle Charaktere aufeinander treffen, dann ist es meist wirklich nicht schwierig zu erraten, dass die Funken nur so fliegen. Und genau das sind sie auch zwischen Katy und Liam. Und das schon seit ihrem ersten unglücklichen zusammentreffen. Und ich habe wirklich mit ihnen mitgefiebert in der Türkei. Gelacht als die beiden in Griechenland waren. Und als sie in Italien angekommen sind, habe ich mein Herz mit ihnen verloren. Und immer war die Chemie zu spüren. Wirklich eine Beziehung, bei der einem selbst als Leser das Herz höher schlägt.
"Ich hatte es mit meinem impulsiven Kuss schließlich angefangen. Doch mittlerweile fiel es mir schwer, echt von gespielt zu unterscheiden."
Eine Sache hat mich allerdings richtig genervt. Naja, oder nicht eine Sache. Eher eine Person. Und das war Brodie, der Bruder von Katy. Gott dieser Typ ist mir so auf die Nerven gegangen. Mit seiner ganzen hinterhältigen und selbstverliebten Art, war er so anstrengend. Ich war wirklich über jedes Kapitel froh, wo ich ihn nicht ertragen musste. Und das Katy ihm am Ende auch nicht mehr so loyal gegenüber war, war super.
Abschließend kann ich eigentlich nur noch sagen, dass Wild Games - Mit einem einzigen Kuss mir sogar um einiges besser gefallen hat als das erste Buch der Reihe. Ich liebe diese verschiedenen Settings und die wirklich spannenden Aufgaben die die Teilnehmer der "World Races" bewältigen mussten. Und natürlich bin ich immer noch restlos verzaubert von der Liebesgeschichte zwischen Katy und Liam. Für mich ist dieses Buch und alle anderen von Jessica Clare ein absolutes Muss für New-Adult und Romantic-Comedy Fans.
December 4, 2020
This review may contain SPOILERS!
The second book in this series was just as good as the first one. I honestly wasn't expecting too much from this book since the page count wasn't very high, and it's hard to establish a real emotional bond and create an exciting and eventful story with so few pages. It felt like the author just skipped parts at times and the issue at the end of the novel wasn't really an issue, because if the main character, Katy, would've just said the whole truth and the communication between them would've been better, the issue would've been resolved in like a second. Apart from that I acctually quite enjoyed the book, as with most books by Jessica Clare. They're always sweet and easy to read. The one thing I really enjoy about these books in particular, is the reality-show-factor. The whole system makes the story exciting, and I've never read anything like it, which makes me want to continue reading this series.
3/5 stars
The second book in this series was just as good as the first one. I honestly wasn't expecting too much from this book since the page count wasn't very high, and it's hard to establish a real emotional bond and create an exciting and eventful story with so few pages. It felt like the author just skipped parts at times and the issue at the end of the novel wasn't really an issue, because if the main character, Katy, would've just said the whole truth and the communication between them would've been better, the issue would've been resolved in like a second. Apart from that I acctually quite enjoyed the book, as with most books by Jessica Clare. They're always sweet and easy to read. The one thing I really enjoy about these books in particular, is the reality-show-factor. The whole system makes the story exciting, and I've never read anything like it, which makes me want to continue reading this series.
3/5 stars
June 16, 2017
I am a fan of The Amazing Race so I enjoyed this book a whole lot. The only thing that would've made this a 5-star read was if it had been a dual POV. The little snippets of Liam's interviews at the start of each chapter were an awful tease and just not enough.
January 9, 2019
Ein Wettlauf um die Welt
und eine vorgetäuschte Romanze.
Hätte Katy gewusst, was ihr da blüht,
hätte sie sich sicher nie auf diese verrückte Show eingelassen.
Und das alles nur ihrem Bruder zu liebe, der sie dann über seinen Ehrgeiz hinweg
zu vergessen scheint.
Als wäre das noch nicht schlimm genug, muss sie sie dann auch noch mit dem unzugänglichen Rockstar Liam ein Team bilden.
Glück sieht wirklich anders aus …
zumindest bis ihnen die Idee kommt ein Liebespaar zu mimen
und das Spiel mit der Realität verwischt ...
„Wild Games – Mit einem einzigen Kuss“ ist der zweite Teil der gleichnamigen Reihe von Jessica Clare, in der sie ihre Leser mit in die Welt der Reality-Shows nimmt.
Nachdem man zuvor mit Abby und Dean das Abenteuer auf einer Insel bestritten hat,
geht es mit Katy und Liam nun in einem Wettrennen um die Welt.
Der Klappentext machte mich unheimlich neugierig auf
ihre Geschichte
und nachdem mir der erste Band so gut gefiel,
wollte ich natürlich auch den Teil 2 der Reihe unbedingt lesen.
Das Cover ist erneut stylisch mit Blumen bestückt
und setzt die Reihe auch optisch gut fort.
Der Schreibstil ist wieder locker und leicht.
Man taucht hier in die Sicht von Katy ein,
die mit ihren Gedankengängen und Gefühlen
dem Leser noch näher gebracht wird.
Katy lernt man zunächst vor allem
als liebevolle Schwester kennen.
Für ihren Bruder scheint sie alles zu tun,
selbst wenn sie sich dafür in einer Gameshow zum Affen machen muss.
Mit der Zeit taut sie jedoch auf,
was vor allem Liam ein ums andere Mal zu spüren bekommt.
Obwohl er sehr ruhig und zurückhaltend ist,
gibt Liam sich ab und an, auch von seiner griesgrämigen Seite.
Dadurch wirkt er geheimnisvoll, manchmal aber auch einschüchternd.
Erst später, zeigt er sich ganz liebe- und verständnisvoll.
Die Geschichte von Katy und Liam,
und irgendwie ja auch über Katys Bruder,
hat mich insgesamt ganz nett unterhalten,
obwohl sie nicht an den Unterhaltungswert vom ersten Teil heranreicht.
Ich vermisste die Lockerheit des Abenteuers
und ein wenig auch das Prickeln in der Liebesgeschichte.
Diese ist zwar süß, kommt aber auch nicht so richtig zur Geltung,
da sie von den Intrigen von Katys Bruder
immer wieder in den Hintergrund gedrängt wird.
Nur gut, dass man auch wieder auf Abby und Dean,
dabei sind
und dem Leser so ein Einblick in ihr Leben
nach dem Happy End gegönnt wird.
Nach dem wirklich süßen Ende der Lovestory von Katy und Liam,
erhoffe ich mir auch hier ein Wiedersehen im 3. Band,
denn von den schönen Momenten der Zweisamkeit
hätte ich gerne noch mehr erlebt!
Ein verrücktes Abenteuer und der behagliche Anfang einer Liebe.
Ich vergebe 4 von 5 Sterne.
und eine vorgetäuschte Romanze.
Hätte Katy gewusst, was ihr da blüht,
hätte sie sich sicher nie auf diese verrückte Show eingelassen.
Und das alles nur ihrem Bruder zu liebe, der sie dann über seinen Ehrgeiz hinweg
zu vergessen scheint.
Als wäre das noch nicht schlimm genug, muss sie sie dann auch noch mit dem unzugänglichen Rockstar Liam ein Team bilden.
Glück sieht wirklich anders aus …
zumindest bis ihnen die Idee kommt ein Liebespaar zu mimen
und das Spiel mit der Realität verwischt ...
„Wild Games – Mit einem einzigen Kuss“ ist der zweite Teil der gleichnamigen Reihe von Jessica Clare, in der sie ihre Leser mit in die Welt der Reality-Shows nimmt.
Nachdem man zuvor mit Abby und Dean das Abenteuer auf einer Insel bestritten hat,
geht es mit Katy und Liam nun in einem Wettrennen um die Welt.
Der Klappentext machte mich unheimlich neugierig auf
ihre Geschichte
und nachdem mir der erste Band so gut gefiel,
wollte ich natürlich auch den Teil 2 der Reihe unbedingt lesen.
Das Cover ist erneut stylisch mit Blumen bestückt
und setzt die Reihe auch optisch gut fort.
Der Schreibstil ist wieder locker und leicht.
Man taucht hier in die Sicht von Katy ein,
die mit ihren Gedankengängen und Gefühlen
dem Leser noch näher gebracht wird.
Katy lernt man zunächst vor allem
als liebevolle Schwester kennen.
Für ihren Bruder scheint sie alles zu tun,
selbst wenn sie sich dafür in einer Gameshow zum Affen machen muss.
Mit der Zeit taut sie jedoch auf,
was vor allem Liam ein ums andere Mal zu spüren bekommt.
Obwohl er sehr ruhig und zurückhaltend ist,
gibt Liam sich ab und an, auch von seiner griesgrämigen Seite.
Dadurch wirkt er geheimnisvoll, manchmal aber auch einschüchternd.
Erst später, zeigt er sich ganz liebe- und verständnisvoll.
Die Geschichte von Katy und Liam,
und irgendwie ja auch über Katys Bruder,
hat mich insgesamt ganz nett unterhalten,
obwohl sie nicht an den Unterhaltungswert vom ersten Teil heranreicht.
Ich vermisste die Lockerheit des Abenteuers
und ein wenig auch das Prickeln in der Liebesgeschichte.
Diese ist zwar süß, kommt aber auch nicht so richtig zur Geltung,
da sie von den Intrigen von Katys Bruder
immer wieder in den Hintergrund gedrängt wird.
Nur gut, dass man auch wieder auf Abby und Dean,
dabei sind
und dem Leser so ein Einblick in ihr Leben
nach dem Happy End gegönnt wird.
Nach dem wirklich süßen Ende der Lovestory von Katy und Liam,
erhoffe ich mir auch hier ein Wiedersehen im 3. Band,
denn von den schönen Momenten der Zweisamkeit
hätte ich gerne noch mehr erlebt!
Ein verrücktes Abenteuer und der behagliche Anfang einer Liebe.
Ich vergebe 4 von 5 Sterne.
January 1, 2019
2.5
Ich finde das Konzept der Wild Games Reihe mit den unterschiedlichen Reality shows eigentlich sehr unterhaltsam und der erste Teil hatte mir auch wirklich gut gefallen. Leider ist der zweite Teil jedoch deutlich schwächer.
Das Buch ist ganz unterhaltsam und eine Reise um die Welt ist wirklich klasse. Leider sind die Spiele bei dem Rennen viel zu platt und manches fand ich einfach nur dämlich. Außerdem strotzt das Buch vor Logiklücken, insbesondere was das Budget der Kandidaten angeht.
Die Charaktere waren relativ sympathisch, zumindest Katy und Liam, aber insgesamt bleiben sie doch recht blass und ich konnte mit den beiden nicht so richtig mitfiebern. Auch die Liebesgeschichte war ein wenig zu erzwungen und mir fehlten die Funken zwischen den beiden.
Auch wenn mich dieser Teil eher enttäuscht hat, werde ich die Reihe weiterverfolgen, da ich die Settings sehr abwechslungsreich und unterhaltsam finde.
Ich finde das Konzept der Wild Games Reihe mit den unterschiedlichen Reality shows eigentlich sehr unterhaltsam und der erste Teil hatte mir auch wirklich gut gefallen. Leider ist der zweite Teil jedoch deutlich schwächer.
Das Buch ist ganz unterhaltsam und eine Reise um die Welt ist wirklich klasse. Leider sind die Spiele bei dem Rennen viel zu platt und manches fand ich einfach nur dämlich. Außerdem strotzt das Buch vor Logiklücken, insbesondere was das Budget der Kandidaten angeht.
Die Charaktere waren relativ sympathisch, zumindest Katy und Liam, aber insgesamt bleiben sie doch recht blass und ich konnte mit den beiden nicht so richtig mitfiebern. Auch die Liebesgeschichte war ein wenig zu erzwungen und mir fehlten die Funken zwischen den beiden.
Auch wenn mich dieser Teil eher enttäuscht hat, werde ich die Reihe weiterverfolgen, da ich die Settings sehr abwechslungsreich und unterhaltsam finde.
July 10, 2019
” Pepto… my kingdom for Pepto.”
I’m loving this series! These books, due to the nature of the story, are exciting and funny. The reality TV game quality affords interesting twist and turns and the way Jessica Clare writes is easy and fast paced that won’t let you put the book down.
Playing Games with rock star Liam who is “cute with a hint of dangerous” is also steamy and sweet, which is an irresistible combination.
“Besides, you were so small and cuddly looking, I couldn’t help myself.”
August 14, 2016
If You Like The Show
Interesting Fun Scenarios
Low Angst
Quick Easy Read
Can Be Read As A Stand-Alone
Interesting Fun Scenarios
Low Angst
Quick Easy Read
Can Be Read As A Stand-Alone
December 26, 2018
Ahhhh hab es wieder soooo geliebt. Noch besser als Band 1.
Und die Kombi aus trash tv und erotik IST. DER. SHIT.
Außerdem war der Protagonist Rockstar und hieß Liam.... I mean ... can’t
Und die Kombi aus trash tv und erotik IST. DER. SHIT.
Außerdem war der Protagonist Rockstar und hieß Liam.... I mean ... can’t
April 18, 2021
I really want to love these books, as there aren’t many romances set in reality tv settings, but I just don’t connect with them. Playing Games was set in an Amazing Race show, and I found it pretty cringey. The romance had no chemistry and left me baffled, and the characters felt like they didn’t have personalities, but just said and did what was expected of their roles in the story. It was fun if you like this kind of romance, but I think I’ll stop reading this series.
January 31, 2023
Liam Brogan, the guitar-playing asshole. Just yum.
I loved this novel almost as much as the first, but it is still one of my favorites. I just love Liam--his quiet but intense nature, his hard-edged but caring persona, and most of all his...um...piercings. He made me very curious about certain things. Who knew colored condoms could be so much fun? Ms. Clare, you sure know how to write steamy sex scenes!
I also loved reading about an Amazing Race-esque show; it was intense, fast-paced, fun, sexy and great. Again it made me want to try out for the show even more. I'm excited we get to read Brodie's story in book 4, but I am still stoked about Ice Games. Clare knows how to bring out the true essence of reality tv, while giving it an interesting romantic twist. Absolutely recommend this series, overall 4.5 stars!
Tropes: snarky heroine, broody rockstar hero, reality competition romance, opposites attract, hate-to-love-you, fake relationship, forced proximity, only one bed, misunderstanding, steamy🔥
July 22, 2013
Very cute story. Bk 2 of the Games series. Happy that Dean/Abby from Wicked Games had part in this one too. This story didn't have the snark and the humor of Wicked Games but still a darn good time.
September 17, 2019
This was short and light read. As a fan of Amazing Race, I loved this book.
Perfect light read. I haven't read a story with a rock star hero with an apadravya in a minute (remember when those were all the rage) so when I came to that part I had a good laugh.
I didn't really like the heroine but overall I am not mad at reading this.
Perfect light read. I haven't read a story with a rock star hero with an apadravya in a minute (remember when those were all the rage) so when I came to that part I had a good laugh.
I didn't really like the heroine but overall I am not mad at reading this.
they-told-me-to-read-it
January 7, 2025Rec via Erin on TikTok
March 13, 2015
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Writing this review hasn’t been easy for me. I always have a harder time with books I really enjoy than with books I don’t and Playing Games is one of those novels that I ended up loving so much I just don’t know how to put it into words. Full of action and adventure, a fierce game show competition, and plenty of romance to keep me on my toes, this novel had everything I could hope for in a novel and I loved every second of it.
First of all, the reason I loved this novel as much as I did was the travel. I’ve always dreamed about visiting almost all of the locations mentioned in the book and I loved reading about the country specific challenges. I was rooting for Liam and Katy in Turkey, laughing while they were in Greece, and swooning while they were in Italy. The bouncing from location to location kept me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t wait to see where they would end up next. Plus the intense competition between the other teams, Katy’s brother Brodie, who I love to hate, and the sexy romance between Katy and Liam kept me glued to this novel until the very end.
Katy was cute main character and I loved reading about her. She’s sassy and snarky and when she starts off on the wrong foot with Liam I just know that there’s going to be sparks flying within a matter of chapters. The chemistry between Liam and Katy was out of this world and though they start off their romance for show, so they can make “good TV”, it quickly becomes more than that. Liam is the sexy, tattooed, pierced bad boy we’ve all come to love in New Adult fiction but he’s just a little bit more too. Despite his bad boy looks he doesn't have the douche bag personality I’ve come to expect from a lot of other love interests in the genre and throughout the novel I was rooting for him just as much as I was for Katy.
Though at it’s heart Playing Games is a romance novel I loved how there was more of a plot than pure romance. Clare managed to make this novel extremely romantic but at the same time provided enough outside plot to keep me from getting bored. The drama between other teams of the competition and the little conflict at the end all made for interesting reading and the romance just made it that much better. Playing Games was pure fun and I’m so excited to read the following novels in the series!
Playing Games is a fantastic addition to the Games series and is the perfect short read for readers looking for something fun without bulky page numbers. Full of action, romance, and adventure Playing Games was a delight to read and I’m excited to continue with the series!
Writing this review hasn’t been easy for me. I always have a harder time with books I really enjoy than with books I don’t and Playing Games is one of those novels that I ended up loving so much I just don’t know how to put it into words. Full of action and adventure, a fierce game show competition, and plenty of romance to keep me on my toes, this novel had everything I could hope for in a novel and I loved every second of it.
First of all, the reason I loved this novel as much as I did was the travel. I’ve always dreamed about visiting almost all of the locations mentioned in the book and I loved reading about the country specific challenges. I was rooting for Liam and Katy in Turkey, laughing while they were in Greece, and swooning while they were in Italy. The bouncing from location to location kept me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t wait to see where they would end up next. Plus the intense competition between the other teams, Katy’s brother Brodie, who I love to hate, and the sexy romance between Katy and Liam kept me glued to this novel until the very end.
Katy was cute main character and I loved reading about her. She’s sassy and snarky and when she starts off on the wrong foot with Liam I just know that there’s going to be sparks flying within a matter of chapters. The chemistry between Liam and Katy was out of this world and though they start off their romance for show, so they can make “good TV”, it quickly becomes more than that. Liam is the sexy, tattooed, pierced bad boy we’ve all come to love in New Adult fiction but he’s just a little bit more too. Despite his bad boy looks he doesn't have the douche bag personality I’ve come to expect from a lot of other love interests in the genre and throughout the novel I was rooting for him just as much as I was for Katy.
Though at it’s heart Playing Games is a romance novel I loved how there was more of a plot than pure romance. Clare managed to make this novel extremely romantic but at the same time provided enough outside plot to keep me from getting bored. The drama between other teams of the competition and the little conflict at the end all made for interesting reading and the romance just made it that much better. Playing Games was pure fun and I’m so excited to read the following novels in the series!
Playing Games is a fantastic addition to the Games series and is the perfect short read for readers looking for something fun without bulky page numbers. Full of action, romance, and adventure Playing Games was a delight to read and I’m excited to continue with the series!
November 1, 2013
I thought this was cute and fun. Exactly what I needed at the time.
August 12, 2015
Not as good as the first one, but still a fun read. This series is a new guilty pleasure!
February 15, 2022
Playing Games was a fun read with an Amazing Race style competition. The book is told in first person, single POV from the h but each chapter has a snippet of the H being interviewed by the show that gives a bit of insight into his thoughts. No ow/om drama, neither were virgins, and no mention of when the last time was for either. This is a standalone, but the main characters from book 1 (which I haven't read yet and didn't affect my enjoyment) are also competitors in this one.
The h and H were both great and the h especially was relatable. The H is tatted and pierced, which I loved ;). Their chemistry took a bit to click into place and once it did I loved them as a couple. The challenges were fun to read about and the steamy scenes were well-done, it felt natural how they played out. This was a low angst story, but still had some of the drama of competition and also a bit of family drama since the h's brother is also on the show.
I really wanted an epilogue. It's possible the characters may make an appearance in another book, but neither seemed interested in doing other shows. There were also some small inconsistencies sprinkled throughout. I really enjoyed this one though and I'll check out more in the series.
The h and H were both great and the h especially was relatable. The H is tatted and pierced, which I loved ;). Their chemistry took a bit to click into place and once it did I loved them as a couple. The challenges were fun to read about and the steamy scenes were well-done, it felt natural how they played out. This was a low angst story, but still had some of the drama of competition and also a bit of family drama since the h's brother is also on the show.
I really wanted an epilogue. It's possible the characters may make an appearance in another book, but neither seemed interested in doing other shows. There were also some small inconsistencies sprinkled throughout. I really enjoyed this one though and I'll check out more in the series.
March 25, 2014
I read the 1st in this series a while back and when I read it, it was pure guilty pleasure. Same goes for this one. Reality TV isnt my thing but reading these make them more tolerable.
Even though they were thrown together unexpectedly there was a great chem between Katy and Liam. Things started off rough but before they knew it their partnership became more. But was it all for show? For good TV?
Read on a rainy day for a bit of angst and some romance.
Even though they were thrown together unexpectedly there was a great chem between Katy and Liam. Things started off rough but before they knew it their partnership became more. But was it all for show? For good TV?
Read on a rainy day for a bit of angst and some romance.
April 13, 2024
Just read it for a second time and loved it as much as I did the first time around. Such a great story!
October 7, 2025
Man this really made me want to watch The Amazing Race
May 2, 2018
I didn't realize going in that this was the second in the series – a friend gave me 4 romance novels about reality TV for my birthday, and I thought they were all stand-alones. So there was a slight spoiler about the end of book 1 (but I don’t know how much of a spoiler it is that a couple gets together in a romance novel, I mean, isn’t that the point?). I started with this one because The Amazing Race is one of my all-time favorite shows, and I thought that would help me get over my general dislike of straight romance novels. But the story surprised me! It was quick-moving, light, entertaining, and kind of hot! I liked how the guy was a tattooed and pierced rocker, even though I thought Katy was a little silly for being so judgmental of him based on his looks. He ended up being pretty thoughtful and kind, and Katy just had to give him a chance to discover that. It was a fun read, and I recommend it to fans of romance or reality TV.
August 5, 2019
I liked this one better than the first book in the series. That ending drama though! Communication? Fictional characters have never heard of it.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
September 9, 2013
Find this review and more on my blog:
***Warning: do not read this review if you haven’t read Wicked Games, the first book in this series.***
So, confession time. I totally read these books out of order. I knew they were part of a trilogy. I received an ARC of Ice Games through Goodreads and decided I needed to pick up the first two books before I read and reviewed that one. I bought the books. Then I read the second one before the first. Sigh. Yeah, yeah, they’re standalones, but the characters from the first book reappear in the second. Needless to say, I kind of took any surprise out of the first book by knowing Dean and Abby were a couple. But, I digress.
Katy Short’s brother Brodie has dreams of being on reality TV. He convinces her to audition for him for a spot on Endurance Island. The producers don’t select him for that show, but they love the idea of teaming Katy and Brodie up for The World Races (cough, The Amazing Race, cough). She’s not sold on the idea, but Brodie convinces her to do it. The prize money is tempting. It could really help her to continue growing her bakery. Katy agrees to join him on the show and makes an unexpected game move that splits their team and gives them both new partners. Brodie is an ass.
All that said, Katy definitely got the better end of the split. Instead of being paired with her self-centered brother, she’s teamed with sexy, pierced, tattooed rock star Liam Brogan, who was forced into the show by his label. Katy thinks Liam is a stereotypical conceited jerk rock star. She couldn’t be more wrong. He doesn’t fit the rock star stereotype. He’s sweet and thoughtful. Liam is a good guy. While neither of them were on the show because they wanted to be, they decided to make the best of it, “make good TV,” and see how long they could stay in the game. Along the way, their attraction for each other grew and eventually they gave in to their desires.
The chemistry between Katy and Liam was totally believable. Their dialogue was realistic and funny. The love scenes were scorching hot. As they continued on in the game, lust turned to something more and the “is this real or just for show” insecurities set in for both of them.
I really liked Katy and Liam. I had to root for them to get together, and hopefully win the game while they were at it. I’m always a sucker for a “showmance” in my reality TV watching. I liked Abby and Dean a lot. I loved to hate Brodie and Tesla. I loved following the drama and the awful challenges. Honestly, I just really enjoyed pretty much everything about this book.
I picked this novel up originally because I wanted to read the first two before reviewing the ARC of Ice Games and I really didn’t know what to expect. I had never read a book by this author before. I was more than pleasantly surprised by every book in this series. I’m anxiously awaiting the release of the fourth novel, Bedroom Games, in 2014. If you like sexy, sweet New Adult romances and reality shows, do yourself a favor and give this series a chance.
***Warning: do not read this review if you haven’t read Wicked Games, the first book in this series.***
So, confession time. I totally read these books out of order. I knew they were part of a trilogy. I received an ARC of Ice Games through Goodreads and decided I needed to pick up the first two books before I read and reviewed that one. I bought the books. Then I read the second one before the first. Sigh. Yeah, yeah, they’re standalones, but the characters from the first book reappear in the second. Needless to say, I kind of took any surprise out of the first book by knowing Dean and Abby were a couple. But, I digress.
“Maybe she’s cranky because her brother abandoned her to hook up with a hot girl.” The voice was deep and smooth and held just a hint of reproach. “I imagine that anyone would be in a bad mood if that happened to them. She got sold out by her partner.”
Katy Short’s brother Brodie has dreams of being on reality TV. He convinces her to audition for him for a spot on Endurance Island. The producers don’t select him for that show, but they love the idea of teaming Katy and Brodie up for The World Races (cough, The Amazing Race, cough). She’s not sold on the idea, but Brodie convinces her to do it. The prize money is tempting. It could really help her to continue growing her bakery. Katy agrees to join him on the show and makes an unexpected game move that splits their team and gives them both new partners. Brodie is an ass.
All that said, Katy definitely got the better end of the split. Instead of being paired with her self-centered brother, she’s teamed with sexy, pierced, tattooed rock star Liam Brogan, who was forced into the show by his label. Katy thinks Liam is a stereotypical conceited jerk rock star. She couldn’t be more wrong. He doesn’t fit the rock star stereotype. He’s sweet and thoughtful. Liam is a good guy. While neither of them were on the show because they wanted to be, they decided to make the best of it, “make good TV,” and see how long they could stay in the game. Along the way, their attraction for each other grew and eventually they gave in to their desires.
“Was apadravya a foreign word for drive you fucking mad with pleasure?”
The chemistry between Katy and Liam was totally believable. Their dialogue was realistic and funny. The love scenes were scorching hot. As they continued on in the game, lust turned to something more and the “is this real or just for show” insecurities set in for both of them.
“Everything’s all wrong. All wrong, and I don’t know how to fix it. All I know is that I don’t know if I can trust Katy, and that makes me so goddamn miserable I can’t stand it. I’m in love with her and I don’t know if I’m being played for a fool.”
I really liked Katy and Liam. I had to root for them to get together, and hopefully win the game while they were at it. I’m always a sucker for a “showmance” in my reality TV watching. I liked Abby and Dean a lot. I loved to hate Brodie and Tesla. I loved following the drama and the awful challenges. Honestly, I just really enjoyed pretty much everything about this book.
I picked this novel up originally because I wanted to read the first two before reviewing the ARC of Ice Games and I really didn’t know what to expect. I had never read a book by this author before. I was more than pleasantly surprised by every book in this series. I’m anxiously awaiting the release of the fourth novel, Bedroom Games, in 2014. If you like sexy, sweet New Adult romances and reality shows, do yourself a favor and give this series a chance.
February 3, 2015
You know how sometimes you just need some brain candy? A frothy, light, fun book to fill the space between longer books that have a little more drama? That’s exactly why I bought this book. This series is all based on reality tv shows. I had read the first one, about a Survivor-type show, because the reviews were like, “It’s better than you’d expect!” And it was! Then I heard the author on a podcast recently, which put these books back into my subconscious. This book is about an Amazing Race-type show, with a tattooed rocker competing, so I basically injected it into my eyeballs.
Let’s discuss the cover for a second. Based upon no research at all, I think this cover has the same models (probably from the same photo shoot) as Tammara Webber’s Easy. And that cover was hot. This picture has the models smiling, so it’s 98% less angsty, and the guy’s hair is softer and you can see more of their bodies. It’s got a sense of fun, which I think is so cool because it’s so different from Easy. Webber self-published Easy at first, and Playing Games is self-published, so I think it’s a set of stock photos put to different uses. I’m in favor of this guy model for everything (and if you dig around on Goodreads you’ll probably find more of his covers) so I’m happy to see him here, representing another hero with tattoos and a pierced tongue. So that’s my in-depth report on the cover.
Now let’s discuss the book. I’m kind of a serious Amazing Race fan, and I recapped it for several years for another blog, so I am too into minutia for that show. I had to set all that aside because Ms. Clare just flaunts the timing and planning that goes into a worldwide race. She flaunts them, I tell you! And I got over it, because Liam is lean and pierced, and I’m shallow.
So Katy is partnered with her brother Brodie on The World Races. Her brother wants to be a reality TV star, so she goes along to help him achieve his dream. Katy runs a cupcake shop, and her goal is to lose early, make $20,000, hang out in Acapulco while the show finishes, and then invest the money in her business. But on the first leg, her team gets switched up with the celebrity rock star team. Brodie gets partnered with the hot chick singer, while Katy is partnered with the brooding lead guitarist.
The winning couple from the previous book is also on The World Races, and Abby gives Katy the advice to “make good TV.” Which Katy interprets as, “flirt with Liam.” So she does, and he responds, and then they’re like, hey, we’re totally into each other and we get to spend all this time together, this is awesome. They even save their money for hotel rooms, so Katy discovers that Liam is pierced Down There, which turns out to be mind-blowing. Meanwhile, Liam teases Katy that her breasts are small and perky, just like her, and he refers to her un-inked skin as a beautiful blank canvas. Aw, he’s so soulful, you guys!
The book breezes over a lot of the show, focusing instead on a few crazy tasks and highlighting how well Liam and Katy work together (and have sex together). Katy’s brother turns out to be a jerk, acting as the villain of the show and trying to ruin her new relationship and her chance at winning. I hope he doesn’t show up in another book because I can’t even with him.
Everything ends happily! Katy and Liam make out and decide to shack up for a while to see where things lead, and he’s sexy all the time, and sweet and chivalrous. The book is told entirely from Katy’s perspective so perhaps I’m parroting her thoughts, but whatever. This is totally the best book I’ve ever read based upon The Amazing Race, and I’m considering reading the next book even though it’s like Ice Skating with the Stars or something like that.
Rating: B+
This review was originally posted on Red Hot Books at: http://redhotbooks.com/2015/01/review...
Let’s discuss the cover for a second. Based upon no research at all, I think this cover has the same models (probably from the same photo shoot) as Tammara Webber’s Easy. And that cover was hot. This picture has the models smiling, so it’s 98% less angsty, and the guy’s hair is softer and you can see more of their bodies. It’s got a sense of fun, which I think is so cool because it’s so different from Easy. Webber self-published Easy at first, and Playing Games is self-published, so I think it’s a set of stock photos put to different uses. I’m in favor of this guy model for everything (and if you dig around on Goodreads you’ll probably find more of his covers) so I’m happy to see him here, representing another hero with tattoos and a pierced tongue. So that’s my in-depth report on the cover.
Now let’s discuss the book. I’m kind of a serious Amazing Race fan, and I recapped it for several years for another blog, so I am too into minutia for that show. I had to set all that aside because Ms. Clare just flaunts the timing and planning that goes into a worldwide race. She flaunts them, I tell you! And I got over it, because Liam is lean and pierced, and I’m shallow.
So Katy is partnered with her brother Brodie on The World Races. Her brother wants to be a reality TV star, so she goes along to help him achieve his dream. Katy runs a cupcake shop, and her goal is to lose early, make $20,000, hang out in Acapulco while the show finishes, and then invest the money in her business. But on the first leg, her team gets switched up with the celebrity rock star team. Brodie gets partnered with the hot chick singer, while Katy is partnered with the brooding lead guitarist.
The winning couple from the previous book is also on The World Races, and Abby gives Katy the advice to “make good TV.” Which Katy interprets as, “flirt with Liam.” So she does, and he responds, and then they’re like, hey, we’re totally into each other and we get to spend all this time together, this is awesome. They even save their money for hotel rooms, so Katy discovers that Liam is pierced Down There, which turns out to be mind-blowing. Meanwhile, Liam teases Katy that her breasts are small and perky, just like her, and he refers to her un-inked skin as a beautiful blank canvas. Aw, he’s so soulful, you guys!
The book breezes over a lot of the show, focusing instead on a few crazy tasks and highlighting how well Liam and Katy work together (and have sex together). Katy’s brother turns out to be a jerk, acting as the villain of the show and trying to ruin her new relationship and her chance at winning. I hope he doesn’t show up in another book because I can’t even with him.
Everything ends happily! Katy and Liam make out and decide to shack up for a while to see where things lead, and he’s sexy all the time, and sweet and chivalrous. The book is told entirely from Katy’s perspective so perhaps I’m parroting her thoughts, but whatever. This is totally the best book I’ve ever read based upon The Amazing Race, and I’m considering reading the next book even though it’s like Ice Skating with the Stars or something like that.
Rating: B+
This review was originally posted on Red Hot Books at: http://redhotbooks.com/2015/01/review...
July 20, 2013
PJV Quickie: I loved Playing Games!! The premise was fun, the writing was good and I was hooked from the first page. I don’t even watch reality TV but this is becoming one of my favorite contemporary series!
Review:
Playing Games opens with Katy Short giving an interview for the producers of Endurance Island. Katy owns a cupcake company, but her brother Brodie really wants to be on the show, so she agreed to audition with the intent of getting Brodie more attention. They wore matching outfits and she made cupcakes for the crew. When the producer tells them they’ve already cast the “blonde Southerners” for Endurance Island, Katie feels bad for her brother, until the producer adds that they are looking for a brother/sister team for the TV show The World Races. Katy doesn’t really want to do it, but Brodie is convinced that if he can make it onto a reality television show then he’ll be able to move into show-business from there. When she hears there’s a $20,000 prize just for participating, Katy decides to do it and use her half to make improvements to her business.
Liam Brogan is lead guitarist for the popular rock band Finding Threnody. He’s not really interested in being on The World Races but his lead singer, Tesla, wants to be on the show so his label tells him he’s got to be her partner. Liam is not a fan of the limelight and would much rather be in the studio working on his music.
After the first challenge to pick numbers that determine their initial order, Katy decides she really, really does not like Liam – he jumped on her and stole her numbered football!! But after her brother sells her out and they’re forced to switch teams, Katy finds herself teamed up with none other than the “guitar-playing asshole”. How is she going to make it through 21 days in close contact with this jerk?
~~~~~~~~~~
This book was awesome, y’all! I loved the way Katy and Liam started out disliking each other and slowly got to know each other better. The ‘bites’ at the beginning of each chapter were genius – Liam is in turns hysterical and sweet and each bite made me smile. Katy is a great heroine – smart, snarky, and won’t turn down a challenge. Liam is a sexy, sexy hero – tattoed, pierced *ahem*, and quiet. She doesn’t know how famous he is, so he doesn’t get any special treatment from her, and Liam learns quickly that she’s not a boring little cupcake baker. The game challenges were fun to read about and provided a perfect backdrop for Katy and Liam’s relationship to grow. As they continued to play through each challenge, and they got closer to the end, I was bouncing in my seat with excitement about both their romance and their chances of winning.
As far as secondary characters go, Katy’s brother Brodie was shameful: he was selfish and obnoxious, and the way he played Katy throughout the game had me gnashing my teeth in frustration. On the ‘yay!’ side, we also got to meet Abby and Dean from Wicked Games again, as they are a team in The World Races. It was fun to catch up with them and see how they’re doing.
I’m telling you – this book was so much fun to read, you don’t want to miss it! And with the first book being free, you can’t lose! I’m super-excited to see that the third book in the series, Ice Games, will be out July 31 (no links yet)!!
Recommendations:
If you’re a fan of any of the following tropes, Playing Games is the book for you: Rock Star heroes, reality TV fans, contemporary romance, and enemies to lovers.
Review:
Playing Games opens with Katy Short giving an interview for the producers of Endurance Island. Katy owns a cupcake company, but her brother Brodie really wants to be on the show, so she agreed to audition with the intent of getting Brodie more attention. They wore matching outfits and she made cupcakes for the crew. When the producer tells them they’ve already cast the “blonde Southerners” for Endurance Island, Katie feels bad for her brother, until the producer adds that they are looking for a brother/sister team for the TV show The World Races. Katy doesn’t really want to do it, but Brodie is convinced that if he can make it onto a reality television show then he’ll be able to move into show-business from there. When she hears there’s a $20,000 prize just for participating, Katy decides to do it and use her half to make improvements to her business.
Liam Brogan is lead guitarist for the popular rock band Finding Threnody. He’s not really interested in being on The World Races but his lead singer, Tesla, wants to be on the show so his label tells him he’s got to be her partner. Liam is not a fan of the limelight and would much rather be in the studio working on his music.
After the first challenge to pick numbers that determine their initial order, Katy decides she really, really does not like Liam – he jumped on her and stole her numbered football!! But after her brother sells her out and they’re forced to switch teams, Katy finds herself teamed up with none other than the “guitar-playing asshole”. How is she going to make it through 21 days in close contact with this jerk?
~~~~~~~~~~
This book was awesome, y’all! I loved the way Katy and Liam started out disliking each other and slowly got to know each other better. The ‘bites’ at the beginning of each chapter were genius – Liam is in turns hysterical and sweet and each bite made me smile. Katy is a great heroine – smart, snarky, and won’t turn down a challenge. Liam is a sexy, sexy hero – tattoed, pierced *ahem*, and quiet. She doesn’t know how famous he is, so he doesn’t get any special treatment from her, and Liam learns quickly that she’s not a boring little cupcake baker. The game challenges were fun to read about and provided a perfect backdrop for Katy and Liam’s relationship to grow. As they continued to play through each challenge, and they got closer to the end, I was bouncing in my seat with excitement about both their romance and their chances of winning.
As far as secondary characters go, Katy’s brother Brodie was shameful: he was selfish and obnoxious, and the way he played Katy throughout the game had me gnashing my teeth in frustration. On the ‘yay!’ side, we also got to meet Abby and Dean from Wicked Games again, as they are a team in The World Races. It was fun to catch up with them and see how they’re doing.
I’m telling you – this book was so much fun to read, you don’t want to miss it! And with the first book being free, you can’t lose! I’m super-excited to see that the third book in the series, Ice Games, will be out July 31 (no links yet)!!
Recommendations:
If you’re a fan of any of the following tropes, Playing Games is the book for you: Rock Star heroes, reality TV fans, contemporary romance, and enemies to lovers.
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