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British Bad Boys #2
Once Upon A Player
Violet When my mum gets sick, I volunteer to fill in for her and clean some hot jock's penthouse. I've heard all the rumors about him, so the plan is get in, clean some toilet bowls, and get out. After my last experience with a "sports hero," I'm done with that sort of guy. But Lucas Carter is full of surprises. He wants to help me clean and is nothing like the toad the press has made him out to be. Resistance may be futile for some girls, but not me. Then he asks me to help him with the interior design of his new place. I can't say, no. It's going to look great on my resume. Unfortunately, spending time with Lucas is dangerous. He's so charming and sweet, but I can't let myself forget––once a player, always a player.
250 pages, Paperback
First published July 13, 2018
31 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Christina Phillips
65 books457 followersChristina grew up in England and spent her childhood visiting ruined castles and Roman remains and daydreaming about Medieval princesses and gallant knights. When she wasn’t lost in the past, she was searching for magical worlds in the backs of wardrobes and watching old Hammer Horrors from the safety of behind the sofa. She now lives in sunny Western Australia with her high school sweetheart and their two cats who are convinced the universe revolves around their needs. They are not wrong.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 15, 2018
Yet another quite enjoyable but, ultimately, just mediocre read for me.
Yet another manwhore-jock-meets-good-girl story. Though I really did like Lucas. He was a genuinely nice guy, patient and funny. A little daft at times, but hey.
Yet another romance full of chiché tropes and one-dimensional characters, albeit likeable ones, so there's that.
I did like the writing though and all in all, this book was pretty enjoyable despite its flaws.
Just don't go and expect anything profound.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2020
https://leiturasdelaura.blogspot.com/...
Depois de ler o primeiro livro da série British Bad Boys, descobri que eu tinha o segundo volume. Quando a sensação de chatice do primeiro passou, acabei pegando o segundo. O que uma quarentena não faz com as nossas leituras, não é mesmo?
A autora inglesa Christina Phillips não é assim nenhuma grande escritora, mas para um young adult é bastante fofinho. Dessa vez acompanhamos o irmão gêmeo do protagonista do primeiro livro, Lucas, que dessa vez é jogador de futebol (como a autora é inglesa, futebol realmente é futebol e é possível reconhecer os times!), e como ele se apaixona por Violet, uma estudante de designer de interiores. Dessa vez não tem nenhuma menção a contos de fadas, apesar do título, menos mal.
Mas a autora tem uma fórmula, que se repete com nomes, lugares e situações levemente diferentes entre os volumes, que a princípio podem ser lidos em qualquer ordem, e realmente podem. O problema é que eu não gosto da fórmula "todo problema é simplesmente porque as pessoas têm diálogos em suas cabeças ao invés de usar a boca e realmente falar as coisas".
Fora esse pequeno grande problema, e a sensação de que eu estava lendo o mesmo livro de novo, a leitura é divertida e não faz feio. Sem grandes problemas no âmbito machismo também, o que é sempre positivo e, infelizmente, um tanto quanto raro.
2,5 estrelas pela preguiça.
Depois de ler o primeiro livro da série British Bad Boys, descobri que eu tinha o segundo volume. Quando a sensação de chatice do primeiro passou, acabei pegando o segundo. O que uma quarentena não faz com as nossas leituras, não é mesmo?
A autora inglesa Christina Phillips não é assim nenhuma grande escritora, mas para um young adult é bastante fofinho. Dessa vez acompanhamos o irmão gêmeo do protagonista do primeiro livro, Lucas, que dessa vez é jogador de futebol (como a autora é inglesa, futebol realmente é futebol e é possível reconhecer os times!), e como ele se apaixona por Violet, uma estudante de designer de interiores. Dessa vez não tem nenhuma menção a contos de fadas, apesar do título, menos mal.
Mas a autora tem uma fórmula, que se repete com nomes, lugares e situações levemente diferentes entre os volumes, que a princípio podem ser lidos em qualquer ordem, e realmente podem. O problema é que eu não gosto da fórmula "todo problema é simplesmente porque as pessoas têm diálogos em suas cabeças ao invés de usar a boca e realmente falar as coisas".
Fora esse pequeno grande problema, e a sensação de que eu estava lendo o mesmo livro de novo, a leitura é divertida e não faz feio. Sem grandes problemas no âmbito machismo também, o que é sempre positivo e, infelizmente, um tanto quanto raro.
2,5 estrelas pela preguiça.
July 16, 2018
Loved this book! It's a quick and totally enjoyable read. The story is fun, sexy, sweet, and lighthearted. Lucas and Violet are great characters. He's a footballer with a reputation as a bad boy. She's a woman who has been burned by the jock type before so there's no way she's going to get involved with this one. She does have to clean his penthouse though since he's paid for it and all. Once Violet gets to know Lucas she realizes he not at all like his reputation portrays him. He's actually a great guy. Kind, caring, funny - NO, just no. Maybe?
The writing is excellent and I adored these characters. I think this is a book everyone will enjoy. I definitely recommend it.
The writing is excellent and I adored these characters. I think this is a book everyone will enjoy. I definitely recommend it.
July 20, 2018
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 7/20/18.
Once Upon a Player is a cute and sweet new adult romance that was a pleasant way to spend a few hours but ultimately is probably not going to be terribly memorable. Violet and Lucas are likable characters who it's easy to root for, but their main conflicts come from 1) not telling each other the whole truth about what's going on with them outside their relationship and 2) being pretty dense about the other person (though they still somehow manage to ultimately figure out that they were being dense on their own). There's not a lot of friction in their relationship, then there's a ton/its over (or is it? they're not totally sure), then it's pretty much all gone again and they're good. I liked them both, but spent at least half of the book mildly annoyed with them for not communicating.
Once Upon a Player is the second in the series, but works just fine as a standalone. Honestly, I wasn't even 100% sure who the couple in the first book was--I guessed probably his brother, but it wasn't terribly obvious from what happens here (Harry doesn't really seem terribly "bad boy" here, but maybe he's more so in his book?). So if sexy footballers are your thing and you want to start here, you should be okay.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars / C+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Once Upon a Player is a cute and sweet new adult romance that was a pleasant way to spend a few hours but ultimately is probably not going to be terribly memorable. Violet and Lucas are likable characters who it's easy to root for, but their main conflicts come from 1) not telling each other the whole truth about what's going on with them outside their relationship and 2) being pretty dense about the other person (though they still somehow manage to ultimately figure out that they were being dense on their own). There's not a lot of friction in their relationship, then there's a ton/its over (or is it? they're not totally sure), then it's pretty much all gone again and they're good. I liked them both, but spent at least half of the book mildly annoyed with them for not communicating.
Once Upon a Player is the second in the series, but works just fine as a standalone. Honestly, I wasn't even 100% sure who the couple in the first book was--I guessed probably his brother, but it wasn't terribly obvious from what happens here (Harry doesn't really seem terribly "bad boy" here, but maybe he's more so in his book?). So if sexy footballers are your thing and you want to start here, you should be okay.
Rating: 3 1/2 stars / C+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 25, 2018
Love this book so hard. Lucas is my kind of hero!
July 7, 2018
4 stars
I loved this bad boys from Britain! I never knew I could enjoy a bad boy scooter player from England so much. Lucas and Violet have amazing chemistry that keeps you on your toes the whole time you are reading! I enjoyed that Lucas and Violet wasn't falling for Lucas's charm. She made him work for her attention and time. I loved Lucas too. He was a bad boy who was really a good guy underneath!
I loved this bad boys from Britain! I never knew I could enjoy a bad boy scooter player from England so much. Lucas and Violet have amazing chemistry that keeps you on your toes the whole time you are reading! I enjoyed that Lucas and Violet wasn't falling for Lucas's charm. She made him work for her attention and time. I loved Lucas too. He was a bad boy who was really a good guy underneath!
July 19, 2018
3.75 stars--ONCE UPON A PLAYER is the second instalment in Christina Phillips’ contemporary, adult BRITISH BAD BOYS romance series. This is British footballer Lucas Carter, and interior design student Violet Henderson’s story line. ONCE UPON A PLAYER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Lucas Carter is the twin brother of Harry Carter-Cinderella and the Geek-book one.
Told from dual first person points of view (Lucas and Violet) ONCE UPON A PLAYER follow the building relationship between British footballer Lucas Carter, and interior design student Violet Henderson. Lucas Carter is on medical leave following a potential career ending injury but an out of control party at his new penthouse finds Lucas face to face with his new house cleaner-Violet Henderson- the woman with whom Lucas will fall in love. When Violet’s mother takes ill, our heroine steps in to help with her mother’s contracted cleaning service never expecting to meet her teenage crush in the guise of Lucas Carter. What ensues is the friends with benefits/no strings attached relationship between Lucas and Violet, and the potential fall-out as misunderstanding and miscommunication force Violet to walk away from the man with whom she is falling in love.
Violet Henderson is an interior design student but works several jobs in an attempt to pay her way. Meeting Lucas Carter brings with it memories of her ex Geoff Hawthorne-Douglas, a footballer himself , who humiliated and betrayed our story line heroine. For all of Lucas Carter’s strengths, popularity and fame, our hero battles issues of self-esteem in the face of his twin brother’s successes in life. The brawn to the brain, Lucas believes he doesn’t measure up to his family’s high standards of education and fame. Lucas’ vulnerability and Violet’s insecurities make for some mistaken beliefs and heart breaking misunderstandings.
The relationship between Lucas and Violet is one of immediate attraction but Violet battles memories from the past, and the devastating humiliation she endured at the hands of her former boyfriend. With Violet’s refusal to date professional footballers, Lucas makes Violet an offer she cannot refuse. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Violet’s parents, and her best friend Katie; Lucas’ brother Harry and his girlfriend Alice, and their sister Mackenzie; Lucas’ friends Will, Caleb, and sometimes plus-one Yolanda; and an assortment of ex-girlfriends who may or may not add fodder to Lucas and Violet’s tremulous relationship.
ONCE UPON A PLAYER is a sweet and sexy story. The premise is engaging, entertaining and spirited; the characters are sassy and moving; the romance is spicy and captivating. ONCE UPON A PLAYER is an energetic and heart warming story.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied by Netgalley
Told from dual first person points of view (Lucas and Violet) ONCE UPON A PLAYER follow the building relationship between British footballer Lucas Carter, and interior design student Violet Henderson. Lucas Carter is on medical leave following a potential career ending injury but an out of control party at his new penthouse finds Lucas face to face with his new house cleaner-Violet Henderson- the woman with whom Lucas will fall in love. When Violet’s mother takes ill, our heroine steps in to help with her mother’s contracted cleaning service never expecting to meet her teenage crush in the guise of Lucas Carter. What ensues is the friends with benefits/no strings attached relationship between Lucas and Violet, and the potential fall-out as misunderstanding and miscommunication force Violet to walk away from the man with whom she is falling in love.
Violet Henderson is an interior design student but works several jobs in an attempt to pay her way. Meeting Lucas Carter brings with it memories of her ex Geoff Hawthorne-Douglas, a footballer himself , who humiliated and betrayed our story line heroine. For all of Lucas Carter’s strengths, popularity and fame, our hero battles issues of self-esteem in the face of his twin brother’s successes in life. The brawn to the brain, Lucas believes he doesn’t measure up to his family’s high standards of education and fame. Lucas’ vulnerability and Violet’s insecurities make for some mistaken beliefs and heart breaking misunderstandings.
The relationship between Lucas and Violet is one of immediate attraction but Violet battles memories from the past, and the devastating humiliation she endured at the hands of her former boyfriend. With Violet’s refusal to date professional footballers, Lucas makes Violet an offer she cannot refuse. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful secondary and supporting characters including Violet’s parents, and her best friend Katie; Lucas’ brother Harry and his girlfriend Alice, and their sister Mackenzie; Lucas’ friends Will, Caleb, and sometimes plus-one Yolanda; and an assortment of ex-girlfriends who may or may not add fodder to Lucas and Violet’s tremulous relationship.
ONCE UPON A PLAYER is a sweet and sexy story. The premise is engaging, entertaining and spirited; the characters are sassy and moving; the romance is spicy and captivating. ONCE UPON A PLAYER is an energetic and heart warming story.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied by Netgalley
July 18, 2018
I love sports romance and I’m always happy when I can get my hands on one. Lucas is a football player who can’t play because of the injury. So he’s doing his physical appointments with his therapist and waiting till he gets the all clear to start playing again. After one of his parties in the new apartment, he meets Violet who is there to clean.
Now, if I stop here, I have to say that I love my sports romance including just a little about sport or playing, or anything other related. Unfortunately (or maybe I missed it), I don’t know much how Lucas got hurt in the first place and the book doesn’t mention it in the next chapters. I am assuming it’s on the field, but still… I’d like to know more.
In the next couple of days, they started to get to know each other more. Lucas is intrigued because she’s one of the rare people who doesn’t fall for him at the first sight and they start to become friends. Violet is still careful after what her ex-boyfriend did to her but she’s over him and she tells Lucas why they can’t become more than friends. But things started to escalate once he invites her to celebrate his birthday with his family.
I like this book, but no matter how light it was to read, I still miss more. More about his injury, more about her mother’s illness, more drama, just more. The reason why they ”broke up” is because he assumed things and she didn’t tell him the truth about her mum even though he told her about his. When they realized they apologize to each other and that’s it. I like more drama, more plot. Many questions were left unanswered: Is there a book about Will (his friend) and Mac (his sister)? What about his dad and their family friend? Are they a couple?
While this was my first read by this author and I’ll definitely follow her works, I can’t get past this, so I’m giving this book 4 stars.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Slovenian review and full post on my blog: https://slovenianbookworm.wordpress.com/
Now, if I stop here, I have to say that I love my sports romance including just a little about sport or playing, or anything other related. Unfortunately (or maybe I missed it), I don’t know much how Lucas got hurt in the first place and the book doesn’t mention it in the next chapters. I am assuming it’s on the field, but still… I’d like to know more.
In the next couple of days, they started to get to know each other more. Lucas is intrigued because she’s one of the rare people who doesn’t fall for him at the first sight and they start to become friends. Violet is still careful after what her ex-boyfriend did to her but she’s over him and she tells Lucas why they can’t become more than friends. But things started to escalate once he invites her to celebrate his birthday with his family.
I like this book, but no matter how light it was to read, I still miss more. More about his injury, more about her mother’s illness, more drama, just more. The reason why they ”broke up” is because he assumed things and she didn’t tell him the truth about her mum even though he told her about his. When they realized they apologize to each other and that’s it. I like more drama, more plot. Many questions were left unanswered: Is there a book about Will (his friend) and Mac (his sister)? What about his dad and their family friend? Are they a couple?
While this was my first read by this author and I’ll definitely follow her works, I can’t get past this, so I’m giving this book 4 stars.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Slovenian review and full post on my blog: https://slovenianbookworm.wordpress.com/
July 14, 2018
I read this book in a few hours and I can say that I enjoyed it .The story is a cliche-footballer and student girl-but it has some kind of chemistry and you have to read it all the way. The main characters are funny,interesting. I also like that British accent and I will certainly read other books written by Christina Phillips. This book deserve 4 stars. Thank you Net Galley and publisher for this opportunity.
July 17, 2018
Pretty typical plot but written quite nicely. I think cover model fits the character very well. I liked Violet. Her low esteem comes from a nasty ex-boyfriend who cheated on her with her best friend. It does take a lot to get over that but Violet is ambitious and confident in what she wants from life. She doesn't expect Lucas though.
Fun fast read!!
Fun fast read!!
July 17, 2018
I loved this book!!! I thought it was so damn cute! You immediately fall in love with Violet. She is doing everything right, she is going to school, working part time but has no luck when it comes to men. She especially hates footballers. Well here comes Lucas a famous footballer. And of course they want to be friends but that never happens. Lucas wants to take her on a date immediately but she says no. Lucas has a reputation as a player and Violet was not going to let herself get wrapped up in that type of situation again! But is Lucas really a player?
I loved the authors way of telling the story with the alternating points of view. I appreciate being able to know whats going on in both of the main characters heads. I thought the book flowed so well and it made you feel like it was a twist on a fairytale. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a nice romantic story.
I loved the authors way of telling the story with the alternating points of view. I appreciate being able to know whats going on in both of the main characters heads. I thought the book flowed so well and it made you feel like it was a twist on a fairytale. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a nice romantic story.
June 25, 2018
Love this book. Highly recommended.
July 9, 2018
I loved this book! Lucas is the totally hot and swoon-worthy professional athlete, while Violet is the young woman filled with insecurities and an ill mom who first encounters Lucas while helping her mom out by cleaning his house. He isn't quite what she expected and they begin a tenuous friendship. As their friendship grows and changes, each makes lots of assumptions and miscommunications. This brings in all the angst that you would expect in a young love story. I found myself turning pages quickly as I became engrossed in Lucas and Violet's tale.
This is the second book in this series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first, however, it is a stand alone novel. The author is on my must read authors' list.
This is the second book in this series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first, however, it is a stand alone novel. The author is on my must read authors' list.
July 8, 2018
Violets mum runs a cleaning service agency and to help her out, Violet is at a penthouse cleaning. She is in for a shock when she realizes it’s Lucas Carters, the guy she had a huge crush on as a teenager, penthouse.
Lucas is instantly taken in by Violet, but she has been burned by a football player before and is not interested. Not willing to give up he makes excuses to keep seeing her. But Lucas has been traded to play for a club in Madrid. How will this move play in their budding relationship.
Once upon a player was a cute read. Lucas has some major insecurities that Violet seems to balance out in him. Their chemistry was indisputably hot. It’s sweet, it’s fun, it’s a perfect light read to relax with.
Lucas is instantly taken in by Violet, but she has been burned by a football player before and is not interested. Not willing to give up he makes excuses to keep seeing her. But Lucas has been traded to play for a club in Madrid. How will this move play in their budding relationship.
Once upon a player was a cute read. Lucas has some major insecurities that Violet seems to balance out in him. Their chemistry was indisputably hot. It’s sweet, it’s fun, it’s a perfect light read to relax with.
January 19, 2023
I absolutely love this series! Rupert Channing and Sophie Hunter Scott are a dream narration duo. It's low angst and a sweet and spicy listen.
July 6, 2018
This is the first book that I have read by Christina and it was so good.
This was a fast paced book that was filled with lots of chemistry between Lucas and Violet.
Lucas has some insecurities, while reading you can really feel what he’s going through. I found that Violet was the perfect match for him because she balanced all that out.
Lucas is quite the charmer I loved reading about him.
I received this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This was a fast paced book that was filled with lots of chemistry between Lucas and Violet.
Lucas has some insecurities, while reading you can really feel what he’s going through. I found that Violet was the perfect match for him because she balanced all that out.
Lucas is quite the charmer I loved reading about him.
I received this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
July 20, 2018
copy received for honest review
I liked the story but it was a little slow. It was a sweet story and I liked both Violet and Lucas. Violet was a little gun shy due to her past relationship. I loved how she did finally step up and invited Lucas on the picnic. It was cute and sweet, just like Violet. Lucas is a bad boy player, at least in the media sense. He is also a sweet guy. I am not saying he did not take advantage of all that was offered, but he is so much more than that. He had his own issues and insecurities. I liked them together. The story was easy to read with a few twists and secrets. The character of Lucas's brother, Harry, did make we want to go back and read his story. I would recommend.
I liked the story but it was a little slow. It was a sweet story and I liked both Violet and Lucas. Violet was a little gun shy due to her past relationship. I loved how she did finally step up and invited Lucas on the picnic. It was cute and sweet, just like Violet. Lucas is a bad boy player, at least in the media sense. He is also a sweet guy. I am not saying he did not take advantage of all that was offered, but he is so much more than that. He had his own issues and insecurities. I liked them together. The story was easy to read with a few twists and secrets. The character of Lucas's brother, Harry, did make we want to go back and read his story. I would recommend.
August 5, 2018
I said this about book 1 too --- that this reads like an in-between a YA and an NA story. But I have to say that I liked this story more than the 1st book. Both MC's are bumblingly cute and sweet. And though the conflict in the story is predictable, the way the story ends still gives all the feels. The epilogue is adorable.
This was a solid 3 stars for me.
This was a solid 3 stars for me.
July 28, 2018
This was really a good book and an interesting concept. Because you see this about a London soccer player, Lucas Carter. Who started playing professional ball when he was seventeen and he is going to be twenty-five in a matter of days.
But unfortunately, he had been injured and had surgery on his leg. So, he is finally in a place where he can do physical therapy. He also bought a new apartment that he shares part-time with his longtime best friend famous model Yolanda. Who most of the world thinks is his love interest. When really, they just let them think that so that no one looks to close to who they are really dating. Strictly friends though.
The team wanted to welcome him back into town so they met at the apartment. To which his agent hired a cleaning service to clean up the after party. The friends that dropped in left a mess. Being that the business is owned by Violet Henderson’s mother she volunteered to clean the place for her since she was feeling under the weather.
When she was confronted by the shirtless under ware only footballer she was in awe. She had to remind herself of the promise she made to herself when her ex-boyfriend chose to have an affair behind her back and everyone knew but her. That she would never ever date a footballer again. She just couldn’t believe that she had to keep reminding herself of that over and over again. But she had to say in her defense he was her teen crush.
On that first day Lucas asked her out but she said no, she made it a strict no that she didn’t date footballers. She said nothing against him. She made it a rule that she didn’t date footballers. She said her ex-cured her of all footballers.
Two weeks later she was meeting parts of his family and even going to great lengths to be a part of the great parts of what he seems to want and need.
All the characters are very well rounded and full of great emotion. Makes you see that not always do the ‘stars of fame’ that are shining so bright with fame like all the hype. Sometimes they just want small town America again. Like Violet was able to give Lucas a well as still see it in, Lucas.
I give this: 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
But unfortunately, he had been injured and had surgery on his leg. So, he is finally in a place where he can do physical therapy. He also bought a new apartment that he shares part-time with his longtime best friend famous model Yolanda. Who most of the world thinks is his love interest. When really, they just let them think that so that no one looks to close to who they are really dating. Strictly friends though.
The team wanted to welcome him back into town so they met at the apartment. To which his agent hired a cleaning service to clean up the after party. The friends that dropped in left a mess. Being that the business is owned by Violet Henderson’s mother she volunteered to clean the place for her since she was feeling under the weather.
When she was confronted by the shirtless under ware only footballer she was in awe. She had to remind herself of the promise she made to herself when her ex-boyfriend chose to have an affair behind her back and everyone knew but her. That she would never ever date a footballer again. She just couldn’t believe that she had to keep reminding herself of that over and over again. But she had to say in her defense he was her teen crush.
On that first day Lucas asked her out but she said no, she made it a strict no that she didn’t date footballers. She said nothing against him. She made it a rule that she didn’t date footballers. She said her ex-cured her of all footballers.
Two weeks later she was meeting parts of his family and even going to great lengths to be a part of the great parts of what he seems to want and need.
All the characters are very well rounded and full of great emotion. Makes you see that not always do the ‘stars of fame’ that are shining so bright with fame like all the hype. Sometimes they just want small town America again. Like Violet was able to give Lucas a well as still see it in, Lucas.
I give this: 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
July 25, 2018
Violet has sworn off athletes, especially after what her ex-boyfriend did. However, there's something about Lucas Carter that's hard to ignore. Yet, cleaning his apartment is all she's ready for. But Lucas has other ideas and is determined to win her over. Will happy ever after be possible for these two?
Having really enjoyed the first book of this series, I was looking forward to more of it and I've got to say that this second book of Ms. Phillips British Bad Boys series was absolutely engaging, fast-paced and was a story I loved right from the beginning due to the heroine's reaction to what she's walked into and whether she can play nice with the hero considering his profession and the fact that he's a total player who has set his sights on her. Can Violet handle the hero's charm without giving in like so many other women do?
As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories and it's understandable why the heroine doesn't want another relationship with someone that plays the same sport as her ex because look how much of a disaster that was due to what her ex did. How could she trust that Lucas wouldn't stray when a better offer came along? However, in saying that, I liked that Violet finally got a little revenge against those that hurt her. Moreover, the heroine is resilient, courageous, hard-working when it comes to her studies and her job and I liked that she took a chance on Lucas, even though it isn't easy for her. Can she trust him? I also liked the close bond she shares with her family and her best friend, as they're really good at giving advice and helping her whenever she needs it.
While the hero, he's confident; charming; has a tight bond with his twin brother, even though they're as different as chalk and cheese; and I liked how determined he was to win the heroine over, which is more difficult than he thought it would be because he's used to women being into him the moment they meet him. I also liked the hero's determination to get back to the game he loves, even though there's every chance he might not be as good as he once was because of his injury.
Overall, Ms. Phillips has delivered a fantastic read in this book where the chemistry between Violet and Lucas was intense; the romance was satisfying and had me loving that the heroine took a chance on Lucas because he's a good guy; and the ending had me cheering for this couple's happy ever after, especially after how things go awry in their relationship. Luckily, both are determined to make things right between them and I liked how one of the main characters went about it. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as I liked the choices these two made in order to be together. I would recommend Once Upon a Player by Christina Phillips, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope, the enemy to lovers trope or books by authors Robin Bielman, Lexi Lawton, Jen McLaughlin and Cindi Madsen.
July 17, 2018
Violet has been burned by a footballer in the past, so she's guarding her heart against them. However, when her mom needs her to step in to help with the cleaning business, she ends up cleaning Lucas Carter's place, and while he instantly wants her, she's not falling for another footballer as her ex really did a number on her, even though she grew up with his posters all over her walls. But Lucas will do anything to make Violet his, and though it was slower than he would have liked, he spent enough time around her when he asked her to help him decorate his new place that he finally showed her that he's not the bad boy the press makes him out to be. Once Upon a Player was a sweet story that kept me engrossed cover to cover. Yeah, there were times that Violet & Lucas' immaturity and lack of communication skills drove me nuts, but it did make it more realistic for me, as relationships aren't always easy to maintain as people get to know each other so their hangups added angst to the mix. Lucas was a great hero with serious insecurities that Violet would have never guessed until she really got to know him. And their chemistry was on point, which led to some hot sexy times! There were some entertaining secondaries that added more to the story, while a twist or two had me dropping some f-bombs. All in all the talented Christina Phillips penned a story that I really loved! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 24, 2018
I loved this book! It was a fun and quick read. Violet has already done the "hot jock" dating scene and it didn't end well. When she finds herself at Lucas Carter's, "it boy" of team United, penthouse filling in for her mum's cleaning service, she is determined not to get lost in his playboy web. Lucas is not used to women saying no to him. Intrigued by the woman cleaning his penthouse, can he wiggle his way into her world? With his reputation preceding him as a ladies man, Violet wonders if that's what he really is when the paparazzi isn't around. This book has some of my favorite elements in a romance book. The story is told from both Violet's and Lucas' perspective, through alternating chapters. I like this type of story telling because it keeps the story interesting and moving forward. It also has a sports theme involved with Lucas playing football (soccer for us Americans) for England's United. I am a tomboy at heart and love sports. While I can get heavy into the lingo, this book does not delve into the football world so much that a non sports lover couldn't follow along. It's playful and the characters are really likable. I found myself sympathizing with Violet and rooting for Lucas. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who likes romance stories. I voluntarily read and review a copy given to me through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 12, 2018
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own"
I really enjoyed “Once Upon a Player”, my first read by Christina Philips. Her characters are wonderful, the writing style good and the romantic relationship so well crafted.
Lucas is a fantastic hero: gentle, kind, his confidence hiding a vulnerability that is so touchingly written. He’s not perfect – the clumsiness handling the move to Madrid proves it – but he’s really genuine and honest. And the way he’s been carrying the weight of feeling the “odd one out” is just brilliant.
Both Lucas and Violet have insecurities about their roles in their families and both find out how loved they are. Still, these insecurities have lingering effects in their personalities.
I liked Lucas and Violet families and friends, the way the author showed the impact of public life in celebrities – how human they are despite of the notoriety – and the realism of some scenes (the couple’s first arguing).
I felt some live football was missing from the story, which was understandable since Lucas was recovering from a knee injury.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Entangled: Embrace, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
I really enjoyed “Once Upon a Player”, my first read by Christina Philips. Her characters are wonderful, the writing style good and the romantic relationship so well crafted.
Lucas is a fantastic hero: gentle, kind, his confidence hiding a vulnerability that is so touchingly written. He’s not perfect – the clumsiness handling the move to Madrid proves it – but he’s really genuine and honest. And the way he’s been carrying the weight of feeling the “odd one out” is just brilliant.
Both Lucas and Violet have insecurities about their roles in their families and both find out how loved they are. Still, these insecurities have lingering effects in their personalities.
I liked Lucas and Violet families and friends, the way the author showed the impact of public life in celebrities – how human they are despite of the notoriety – and the realism of some scenes (the couple’s first arguing).
I felt some live football was missing from the story, which was understandable since Lucas was recovering from a knee injury.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Entangled: Embrace, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
October 14, 2018
If you’re looking for a story where a prominent sports star, a footballer with the world at his feet, falls for Cinderella who doesn’t exactly trust him, look no further . . . .
Lucas Carter finds his usual cleaner has been temporarily replaced by someone he’s attracted to. Shouldn’t be a problem for a star like him! However, the young woman in question has been burnt by a star before and is determined to resist being attracted to him. Can Lucas win her over? Will love find a way?
This is a light hearted read, a modern version of Cinderella with plenty of twists, especially as communication proves to be a major problem between the two! I enjoyed how Violet resisted Lucas’s charm and he had to work to win her over. I also liked how Lucas wasn’t really a bad boy underneath it all. A fun easy read to escape into when you don’t want anything too heavy to read.
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
Lucas Carter finds his usual cleaner has been temporarily replaced by someone he’s attracted to. Shouldn’t be a problem for a star like him! However, the young woman in question has been burnt by a star before and is determined to resist being attracted to him. Can Lucas win her over? Will love find a way?
This is a light hearted read, a modern version of Cinderella with plenty of twists, especially as communication proves to be a major problem between the two! I enjoyed how Violet resisted Lucas’s charm and he had to work to win her over. I also liked how Lucas wasn’t really a bad boy underneath it all. A fun easy read to escape into when you don’t want anything too heavy to read.
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
September 27, 2018
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC to read and give my opinion.
This author never fails to deliver a sweet and charming but sexy romance. Violet and Lucas made a fun match as they get pushed and pulled into a dreamy relationship. Of course Violets displays some insecurity dating someone famous but sparks fly between the two.
What did I lke? Charming romance between two consenting adults with a tad bit of drama always makes for a fun book. This author spins a web that just makes you want to finish the book?
Would I buy a copy? Yes, I love this author and she is a go to author when I need a great book that is whimsical. Love her covers and her titles.
Thoughts for the author? Keep on writing. Sincerely can not get enough of these books! Great romance.
Five stars of entertainment!
This author never fails to deliver a sweet and charming but sexy romance. Violet and Lucas made a fun match as they get pushed and pulled into a dreamy relationship. Of course Violets displays some insecurity dating someone famous but sparks fly between the two.
What did I lke? Charming romance between two consenting adults with a tad bit of drama always makes for a fun book. This author spins a web that just makes you want to finish the book?
Would I buy a copy? Yes, I love this author and she is a go to author when I need a great book that is whimsical. Love her covers and her titles.
Thoughts for the author? Keep on writing. Sincerely can not get enough of these books! Great romance.
Five stars of entertainment!
July 16, 2018
I really enjoyed this one. And I love this authors books so it was a bonus for me. Just what I needed.
Fast paced book that was filled with lots of chemistry between Lucas and Violet.
Violet is helping her mom who runs a cleaning service agency. So she's cleaning some penthouse and can't believe that its none other than her teenage crush Lucas Carter, football player. But Violet has been burned before by a football player and is definitely not getting burned again.
Lucas is instantly attracted to Violet and he is not giving up on getting his girl. But Lucas has been traded and is moving soon, how is this going to help him win the girl?
Loved it, it was a cute, sweet and a fun read for me. Just what you need for a relaxing lighthearted read!
Fast paced book that was filled with lots of chemistry between Lucas and Violet.
Violet is helping her mom who runs a cleaning service agency. So she's cleaning some penthouse and can't believe that its none other than her teenage crush Lucas Carter, football player. But Violet has been burned before by a football player and is definitely not getting burned again.
Lucas is instantly attracted to Violet and he is not giving up on getting his girl. But Lucas has been traded and is moving soon, how is this going to help him win the girl?
Loved it, it was a cute, sweet and a fun read for me. Just what you need for a relaxing lighthearted read!
July 16, 2018
I received an arc from Netgalley.
Sometimes we get stuck in roles when we’re young and it’s hard to break out of f them. The smart one. The funny one. The dumb jock.
Lucas was born into a family of geniuses but he fell in love with football. No one thinks he’s anything but a player and a jock.
Violet dated a footballer and got burned. Been there done that. Until she meets Lucas.
These two are very different but they click.
This is a well written new adult novel with complex characters and a solid story. The drama is realistic and it does not fall into the long drawn out misunderstanding that one conversation could fix.
I am curious if there is a book about Alice because I’d love to read that as well.
I’ll definitely read other books by this author.
Sometimes we get stuck in roles when we’re young and it’s hard to break out of f them. The smart one. The funny one. The dumb jock.
Lucas was born into a family of geniuses but he fell in love with football. No one thinks he’s anything but a player and a jock.
Violet dated a footballer and got burned. Been there done that. Until she meets Lucas.
These two are very different but they click.
This is a well written new adult novel with complex characters and a solid story. The drama is realistic and it does not fall into the long drawn out misunderstanding that one conversation could fix.
I am curious if there is a book about Alice because I’d love to read that as well.
I’ll definitely read other books by this author.
July 16, 2018
Once Upon A Player was a fast-paced and entertaining read. The chemistry between Lucas and Violet was believable, as well as how the two got to know each other and, naturally, fall in love. I would say the character’s story would have benefited from a lengthier novel with more dialogue between the two and successive buildup of character development.
The only thing that irked me was the over-the-top (read:clichéd) dramatic ending scene that seems to be all the rage in romantic novels. I.e. groveling in a public place in front of cameras.
Christina Phillips drew the reader in with her charming characters— it was super sweet; I got a tooth ache by the time I was finished with the book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The only thing that irked me was the over-the-top (read:clichéd) dramatic ending scene that seems to be all the rage in romantic novels. I.e. groveling in a public place in front of cameras.
Christina Phillips drew the reader in with her charming characters— it was super sweet; I got a tooth ache by the time I was finished with the book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2018
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this one. I love sports romance, but I don't normally go for a soccer/football books. I'm so glad to read this one. I wanted to read this one because I'm a fan of Christina Phillps so I knew it was going to be good. I was sucked into this one right from the beginning and I had a hard time putting it down. I loved Lucas. He's more than his reputation and Violet learns that pretty quick. She's been burned by a footballer before so that's a big strike against Lucas right off the bat. Does Lucas have the patience when it comes to Violet because he's has to convince her they have something that last. I loved the chemistry between the characters. I would highly recommend this one.
I really enjoyed this one. I love sports romance, but I don't normally go for a soccer/football books. I'm so glad to read this one. I wanted to read this one because I'm a fan of Christina Phillps so I knew it was going to be good. I was sucked into this one right from the beginning and I had a hard time putting it down. I loved Lucas. He's more than his reputation and Violet learns that pretty quick. She's been burned by a footballer before so that's a big strike against Lucas right off the bat. Does Lucas have the patience when it comes to Violet because he's has to convince her they have something that last. I loved the chemistry between the characters. I would highly recommend this one.
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