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Rules of the Game #5
Playing Dirty
Can a player ever really be redeemed?
Marcus Reid is an NHL forward and a big-time playboy. Chloe Williams is a sports journalist. Can Chloe finally be the one to tame this player?
Marcus gets traded to the Toronto Cyclones. A new team and a new city—Just what he needs. A fresh start away from his old teammates, his ex-fiancé, and his past. Soon after the move, he meets Chloe. She’s smart, sexy, and damn, can she write a good story.
Chloe works hard to make her boss proud and be the best sports journalist she can be. Meeting Marcus Reid and having instant chemistry with him wasn’t in the plan. Everyone knows that sports journalists don’t mess around with athletes.
With chemistry that’s off the charts, Marcus and Chloe come up with an arrangement that should be mutually beneficial. Can Chloe be the good luck charm that Marcus needs to get his game and his life back on track? Or will past indiscretions tear away their shot at happiness?
This book is intended for a mature audience. 18+
Other titles by USA Today Bestselling Author Emma Tharp:
1. The Bluff Harbor Series Boxed Set
2. What About Us (The Bluff Harbor Series Book Two)
3. Drawn to Dark
4. Keeping It Casual
5. Moving On (McLoughlin Brothers Series Book One)
6. All In (McLoughlin Brothers Series Book Two)
7. Alive Again (McLoughlin Brother Series Book Three)
8. Crashing Christmas: A Billionaire Office Romance
9. Always Just Us (Just Us Book One)
10. Forever Just Us (Just Us Book Two)
11. Scoring Chance (Rules of the Game Book One)
12. Defending Your Heart (Rules of the Game Book Two)
13. Goal on the Rebound (Rules of the Game Book Three)
14. Unsportsmanlike Conduct (Rules of the Game Book Four)
104 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2019
145 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
About the author
Emma Tharp
38 books222 followersEmma Tharp is the USA Today Bestselling Author of The Bluff Harbor Series, Keeping It Casual, Drawn to Dark, and the McLoughlin Brother Series. She was raised in upstate New York. Being an only child, she spent a great deal of time alone, dreaming up characters who would keep her company on long family road trips. Putting her writing on the back burner, she went to college and became a chiropractor. After spending twelve years healing patients, Emma decided—with the help of her amazingly supportive husband—to use the creative side of her brain and let her characters come to the page.
If she’s not writing, Emma can be found at the gym, one of her kids sporting events, Starbucks, or a live music event.
A perfect day for Emma would be spent at her lake house with her husband, two ginger-haired children, and Vizsla, reading a book and drinking a large cup of coffee (or wine) with music playing in the background.
If she’s not writing, Emma can be found at the gym, one of her kids sporting events, Starbucks, or a live music event.
A perfect day for Emma would be spent at her lake house with her husband, two ginger-haired children, and Vizsla, reading a book and drinking a large cup of coffee (or wine) with music playing in the background.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
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August 12, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/12/2019)! 🎁
May 31, 2019
We met Marcus before. He wasn’t the good guy. He was careless with his fiancée’s feelings and heart. He didn’t think he was cut out for relationships. Chloe snuck in and made him see what kind of man he could be and the life he could have. Chloe is a working on building her career. She isn’t ready for a relationship either, until Marcus. There were some ups and downs but they get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2019
Extremely entertaining, captivating and interesting sexy read. I could not put it down. Wonderfully written with strong, intriguing characters. I want to read more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Can Marcus be redeemed?
Read the book and find out .
Steamy and very good , loved the book and in the end loved Marcus , no more spoilers, get reading.
💋💋
Can Marcus be redeemed?
Read the book and find out .
Steamy and very good , loved the book and in the end loved Marcus , no more spoilers, get reading.
May 29, 2019
This is the best cover of any of the books in this series, but that's not why I read this book. Pro hockey player Marcus and magazine writer Chloe move from friends with benefits to nothing because of her concern that her industry peers won't take her seriously when they find out who she's involved with. He starts playing crappy, but doesn't make the connection that it's because of Chloe's absence in his life. He's not interested in anyone else - when he goes to a club with his teammates, all he can think about is Chloe. He so he makes a business arrangement with Chloe - friends with benefits and exclusive interviews for her magazine. His previous hookup, Sara, causes issues for him, and releases a tell-all article to another reporter when he refuses to get back together with him. This, in turn, causes issues with Chloe. There's a bit of groveling involved, but she eventually gives him another chance, and they head for their happy ending. I loved this book - read last night until I fell asleep, then finished it today.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 18, 2019
I was a bit skeptical about whether I would be able to enjoy Marcus' book after how horrible he was in the previous books in this series--cheating on his fiancée, his treatment of her after she breaks off their engagement, and his behavior towards his teammates. Although I enjoyed this book and the relationship between Marcus and Chloe, the explanation for his past behavior felt lacking because of the quick pace of the story. There were times where it felt like Marcus was not owning up to his role in the poor relationship he had with his teammates. Because the story begins with Marcus and Chloe already having met, I also felt like I missed some of the development in their relationship. Overall, especially because the story was told in dual POV, I feel that the author was able to give readers a different side to Marcus that allows you to root for him as he realizes that he wants to change and be in a real relationship with Chloe. I loved his interactions with her family and the bond he developed with her brother. I did enjoy reading this book and would recommend it to others.
May 29, 2019
This is book five for the Rules of the Game series. I have read each book in the series thus far but it could be read as a standalone. Psst...I recommend the series. This book is all about Marcus Reid, he is a NHL hockey player/playboy that has been traded to the Toronto Cyclones. This is not a bad thing for Marcus as it is a chance for him to start all over, fresh start with no history. Or so he hopes. Chloe Williams is a sports journalist with a number one rule of not getting entangle with the athletes, ever. Obviously, the line gets crossed between these two characters with a friends with benefits relationship. Chloe cuts Marcus off though and things start falling apart for Marcus. Can he grow up and find his commitment skates? Can he convince Chloe that he is both wanting more and that he is ready?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2019
Redemption by definition is the act of atoning for a fault or mistake.
Marcus is the epitome of a player, he cheated on his ex-fiancee, is only interested in casual hook ups and runs from committment. The friends with benefits relationship he has with Chloe is perfect until she breaks it off citing her professional reputation. His game goes downhill until he can convince her to give him another chance. An ex hookup trashes him in the newspaper and almost costs him his job and Chloe's affection. He is determined to redeem himself so they can have a future together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Marcus is the epitome of a player, he cheated on his ex-fiancee, is only interested in casual hook ups and runs from committment. The friends with benefits relationship he has with Chloe is perfect until she breaks it off citing her professional reputation. His game goes downhill until he can convince her to give him another chance. An ex hookup trashes him in the newspaper and almost costs him his job and Chloe's affection. He is determined to redeem himself so they can have a future together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 28, 2019
For me, the sign of a good writer is one who can create a character that I don't like, one who I soon forget about and then bring that character back and make me change my mind. Emma Tharp has done that in this book. Marcus was not a nice character right from the start of the series, but in this story we are shown how much he had developed and evolved as a character and I'm impressed as I really didn't like him before! This story is a break from the Wolverines but I still enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2019
A great hockey romance story that will keep you entertained until the last page.
Marcus and Chloe have a on again off again relationship he is a pro hockey player she is a sports writer When she calls things off because she thinks people in the industry will judge her it causes a slide in his game. No Chloe no great hockey game He strikes an agreement with her she stick around he gives her an exclusive interview But an ex is about to cause trouble Will they realise they have much more than a business arrangement at stake her. You will have to read to see if they get their HEA.
Marcus and Chloe have a on again off again relationship he is a pro hockey player she is a sports writer When she calls things off because she thinks people in the industry will judge her it causes a slide in his game. No Chloe no great hockey game He strikes an agreement with her she stick around he gives her an exclusive interview But an ex is about to cause trouble Will they realise they have much more than a business arrangement at stake her. You will have to read to see if they get their HEA.
May 28, 2019
This is a very well to the story. The characters all asked to be well developed and goes by quickly.You will find yourself pulled in until the very end. This was my first read by this author and I will be looking for more of their work. I received this a an ARC in return for my honest review. I would highly recommend this read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2019
She’s his Redemption
Marcus has been one of the least favourable players throughout this series, and after being traded to Toronto he doesn’t seem to have changed. Yet upon closer inspection Marcus has met his match in Chloe, and their simple agreement leaves Marcus evaluating himself. When drama unfolds he nearly loses Chloe but when he lays the brutal honesty out can she deny her feelings and walk away or will she give him one final chance. Read through Kindle Unlimited
Marcus has been one of the least favourable players throughout this series, and after being traded to Toronto he doesn’t seem to have changed. Yet upon closer inspection Marcus has met his match in Chloe, and their simple agreement leaves Marcus evaluating himself. When drama unfolds he nearly loses Chloe but when he lays the brutal honesty out can she deny her feelings and walk away or will she give him one final chance. Read through Kindle Unlimited
October 25, 2020
He did it!
He won me over. I want even sure if I wanted to read Marcus' book. He was such a jerk before. I was definitely holding a grudge against him. I know it's not healthy to hold a grudge over a book character but I did. Lol
He really get me though. He deserves to be happy too. :)
I have loved this whole series so far. The author has done a great job of keeping me interested and unable to wait to read the next one. I'll be sad for sure when this series ends.
He won me over. I want even sure if I wanted to read Marcus' book. He was such a jerk before. I was definitely holding a grudge against him. I know it's not healthy to hold a grudge over a book character but I did. Lol
He really get me though. He deserves to be happy too. :)
I have loved this whole series so far. The author has done a great job of keeping me interested and unable to wait to read the next one. I'll be sad for sure when this series ends.
May 21, 2019
3*
Marcus & Chloe are just friends with benefits. He cheated on his ex and was transferred when she got with another team member.
She’s busy in her career and is happy with the arrangements after all he’s giving her exclusive interviews.
Can they just turn feelings on & off? Throw an ex with a grudge into the mix!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Quick read
Marcus & Chloe are just friends with benefits. He cheated on his ex and was transferred when she got with another team member.
She’s busy in her career and is happy with the arrangements after all he’s giving her exclusive interviews.
Can they just turn feelings on & off? Throw an ex with a grudge into the mix!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Quick read
May 20, 2019
He thought he knew what he wanted until he lost her. He was comfortable with one situation but scared to pursue the other. He stepped up and did the right thing for himself and their relationship.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2019
I received this book as a ARC for my honest review. It was a quick read. It is a ok story. If you read any of her books in her other Hockey series this Marcus story. Marcus is playboy and has been traded to another team. It is the first book in her new hockey team series. Happy ever after.
May 27, 2019
Loved it! Another good one in this series! Excellent characters and storyline! Cannot wait for the next one!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2019
Another well written story by this author. This is a great series a must read. They story flows well, strong and likable characters with off the charts chemistry. This book will keep you glued till the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
May 30, 2019
I liked that the relationship between Chloe and Marcus evolved from being just casual at the beginning to having more meaning by the end. They both grew in this quick but good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2019
In the beginning I didn’t click with Chloe not sure why but eventually she grew on me. Marcus and Chloe were really good together. I really enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2019
This was a great to read having characters that are well developed and engaging with plenty of chemistry between them. The storyline flowed with ease from start to finish.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2019
I really enjoyed Marcus & Chloe's story. Good characters. An intriguing story. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book via booksprout.
June 9, 2019
This is another entertaining and sexy sports romance by Emma Tharp.
September 16, 2019
Playing Dirty Review
Marcus and Chloe's story is a steamy hockey romance with a HEA. Well-written and good story line. An overall good read.
Marcus and Chloe's story is a steamy hockey romance with a HEA. Well-written and good story line. An overall good read.
February 17, 2020
It was a good story. I'm not sure if I really liked the male lead. He seemed like a douchebag and I'm not sure if he redeemed himself enough for me to be happy with them being a couple.
May 16, 2022
Great read
Loved this book and that it gave you two years down the road glimps of their lives. Great read. Glad Marcus grew up and found Chloe.
Loved this book and that it gave you two years down the road glimps of their lives. Great read. Glad Marcus grew up and found Chloe.
May 29, 2019
Emma Tharp wins with PLAYING DIRTY the fifth book in the Rules of the Game series. NHL forward Marcus Reid and sports journalist Chloe Williams have been hooking up. Marcus wants to take their relationship further, while Chloe worries it would hurt her career. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult readers. It primarily takes place in Toronto.
PLAYING DIRTY is a fun story. It is skillfully written and entertaining. I enjoy the characters and plot. The novel was believable and engaging. I like that the charters recognize their strengths and weaknesses. They develop throughout the book. I like that they were open with each other. They grew up with different lifestyles. I appreciate Chloe’s professionalism and ethics with her interviews. The story had a great epilogue that made the novel feel well concluded. PLAYING DIRTY is a wonderful addition to the Rules of the Game series. I look forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this series to people that enjoy sports romances. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
PLAYING DIRTY is a fun story. It is skillfully written and entertaining. I enjoy the characters and plot. The novel was believable and engaging. I like that the charters recognize their strengths and weaknesses. They develop throughout the book. I like that they were open with each other. They grew up with different lifestyles. I appreciate Chloe’s professionalism and ethics with her interviews. The story had a great epilogue that made the novel feel well concluded. PLAYING DIRTY is a wonderful addition to the Rules of the Game series. I look forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this series to people that enjoy sports romances. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
June 25, 2019
Playing Dirty: A Players Redemption Hockey Romance (Rules of the Game Book 5) By: Emma TharpHe's "Playing Dirty" To WIN Her HEART!
Is HE just "Playing Dirty" OFF the I.C.E. to Improve His GAME,
or Has HE Found the Only ONE... His Ms. RIGHT!
To make Him wanna Quit "Playing Dirty" with EveryOne Else,
And Focus ON "Playing Dirty" Exclusively!?!
Cuz... IT seems He cannot Play ON the I.C.E.,
If He's NOT "Playing Dirty" with Ms. RIGHT before Game NIGHT!
I was granted an ARC of Emma Tharp's "Playing Dirty: A Players Redemption Hockey Romance (Rules of the Game Book 5)" via B00|{$P®0UT; I gladly recommend this book to others based upon its own merits. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews