Playing Hard to Get

by Ellie Isaacson

I've wanted Mitch since the day we met. But the broody ex-Marine was the one man I could never have. I'm not a girl who believes in fairytales. I'm no princess, and there's never going to be a handsome prince coming to my rescue. I don't deserve it—not after all the hurt I caused. So I tried to stay away, ran whenever he got too close. It wasn't enough. Mitch wouldn't take no for an answer. He chased me until I gave in. Made me let go, break all my rules, and drop my defenses. He made me feel things I’d never felt before. Our love was all consuming. Our lives forever changed. Are we finally ready to give up our hearts? Or will the wounds from our pasts continue to tear us apart?

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 10, 2021

About the author

Ellie Isaacson has been an avid reader her whole life, but a couple years ago she had a dream that she just couldn't forget. She cultivated that dream and began writing, which became a dream of a different sort. Ellie is thrilled to be able to share her passion with her readers. As an accountant and an author, she slings numbers by day and words by night. She's also a wife and a mother of two amazing boys and one crazy hellion pup.

Reviews

[✮ rach ✮ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Frankie ruined this book for me. She was a selfish, shitty friend I wish had been killed off…or at least Vivian and Mitch (especially Mitch!) telling her to fuck off and they leave town to start over elsewhere. Because apparently it’s no big deal she sided with a problematic client over the man she says is her best friend (I call bullshit). Everything has to be about her (even when it’s not her book), and I was hoping someone would put her in her place.
Nope. Didn’t happen.
Disappointed.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fist book I've read by Ellie Issacson & I am in love. Playing Hard to Get is book 2 in the Playing with Hearts series. I did not read the first book in this series and this book can be read as a stand alone. In this book we follow Mitch & Vivian. Two passionate individuals who come from very different lives. Mitch is a veteran dealing with serious PTSD. He is a flirt who is rough around the edges & enjoys being surrounded by people in attempt to quiet his mind. Vivian is a confident, controlled fashion designer who has goals & works hard to achieve them. The chemistry between these two is insane. While Mitch & Vivian both feel the pull, Vivian continually fights it & pushes Mitch away. Because of her past she feels like she doesn't deserve love. Mitch is persistent & will not give up until Vivian is his. I didn't want to put this book down. The writer kept me engaged from the beginning with steam & suspense. Do yourself a favor & read this book.

"I’d never been one for fantasies. I’d never believed in fairytales and happily ever afters. But in the past year, my life had changed. I learned I wasn’t an evil villain. That I couldn’t blame myself for my parents’ shortcomings. I learned you can’t live to make someone else happy, that you have to think of yourself. Most importantly, I learned that, while hard work can be a good thing, it’s okay to indulge in your fantasies. You might just find your happily ever after."

I received a free copy of this book & this is my honest review.

[Nagma (Take A Look At My Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Playing Hard to Get by Ellie Isaacson is the second book in the Playing with Hearts series and can be read as a standalone. This is the first book I’ve read by Ellie Isaacson and I really enjoyed it. This book follows Mitch and Vivian as they work to overcome their physical and emotional struggles. Mitch is a veteran with PTSD. He enjoys being surrounded by people to distract from his thoughts and is very flirtatious. Once he sets his sights on Vivian, he won’t stop until she’s his. Vivian is a confident fashion designer and works hard to achieve her goals. She feels like no one can love that she has ruined all her relationships. Vivian fights the pull she feels for Mitch.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed seeing the H lust after the h instead of the opposite. Their constant push and pull was a bit much, and the start was slow, but I enjoyed it. Mitch and Vivian’s characters were fantastic. They had emotional depth and their progress through the book was wonderful to see. Mitch’s persistence to break down Vivian’s walls and show her he really sees her was heart-warming. I loved the suspense, romance, steam, twists and turns. Playing Hard to Get was an enjoyable slow-burn romance.

Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Diane Yoz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Playing Hard To Get is really good. Love the push/pull between Vivian and Mitch, the exciting suspense, and the emotional drama these two have. Poor Mitch had a fight ahead of him to get Vivian and at times it was hard to connect with her, she was so standoffish but I Love Mitch's determination to make her his!!!  The camaraderie between the siblings and friends gave me some laughs and at times some of the characters that I loved just made me so angry.  I am glad I know about Mitch's tattoo now. Loving this series and once again I  m left intrigued for the next book! Love that feeling when you want more.

[Adrienne Bird · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet, broody, southern former marine suffering with PTSD falls for the rich girl from the other side of the tracks with more baggage than her Louis Vuitton collection. What should be a crazy story, where you read the blurb and think WTF, why not?

Since I love me some southern boys, Mitch had me from the beginning. Knowing his history right away, you can’t help but love his character and want the best for him.

Vivian, I don’t know if she was mentioned much in the first book but she was definitely a closed off character at the start. As you slowly see her layers peeled back you end up cheering for her as well.

Loved the chemistry these two shared and the respect and love they showed for each other. He was a great alpha that allowed the heroine to shine on her own. Since I didn’t read the first book in this series, I did feel a little out of the loop on some of the story but this can be a stand alone as you get filled in enough to figure out the connections.

[BookKraves · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had me engrossed in the character's emotional and physical battles and profound personal fears.

Playing Hard to Get is the second book in the Playing With Hearts series. You can totally read it as a standalone and don't have to read Playing With Fire to read this one.

The story started a bit slow, and there was a lot of push and pull between Vivian and Mitch. The hero and heroine are attracted to each other, but Vivian likes control and is scared to open up to anyone, including her twin brother Vinny. Vivian believes she is unlovable and responsible for ruining her family relationships.
Mitch is also fighting his own demons, struggling to cope with PTSD and grief caused by serving in the military.

Mitch has been pursuing Vivian for months and wants to be with her, but there is just one problem, Mitch is Vivian's cousin's best friend and employer. Mitch is in for the fight of his life, and he knows a thing or two about tough battles.

Vivian definitely played hard to get. The story was enticing, suspenseful and captivating. I love Mitch; he is a perfect book boyfriend. He's charming, determined, faithful and not an asshole. Vivian was aloof at times, and it was tough to connect with her. She doesn't show emotions and can only get off with her own hands. Mitch was definitely up for that challenge.😏😁
I absolutely love Vinny, and I can wait to read his book. 

[Julia Shah · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Playing with Fire I was already in love with Mitch and thought he was way too good for Vivian. However she grew on me over the course of the story and I think they were meant to be.

I got well and truly drawn into the plot and invested in the characters fairly quickly.

This story is a great read and I would thoroughly recommend it

[Gin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emotional romance and family drama! Sweet girl, Vivian and dreamy hunk, Mitch are a sexy couple. I loved Mitch right from the start when he appeared in the first book and became Viv’s cousin Frankie’s bestie. He’s the former military, former bartender, now security specialist heartthrob with his hot body and handsome face. He’s the touchy-feely type with all the hugs and kisses. But he has his demons from his military service. Now we get his story along Vivian’s. Mitch was smitten with the beauty at first sight. Viv wasn’t far behind but she likes control plus she doesn’t think she deserves happiness because of things in her past. Can she let go for Mitch and his sexy goodness? I didn’t get her drama around Mitch being her cousin’s bestie and it went on to long for me. The push pull was intense as Viv debated with herself and tried to avoid Mitch. I loved brother Vinny and can’t wait for his story. Vivian’s family wears me out! Father Marco sucks! Yep, controlling beyond acceptable and all the kids are so over him. He caused so much pain. This is a sexy romance with high emotions, suspense and drama. I love this cast of characters and this author intense writing style. Her Hitman series is fantastic. I look forward to the next installment in this terrific series.

[Shelley C · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Playing Hard to Get Stars🌟

Playing hard to get is the next book in the playing with hearts series and is Mitch and Vivian’s book😍 The author starts the book off before we meet Mitch and Frankie so we have a little of his background which is probably what confused me in the beginning as I just couldn’t place “Mitch’s” character…..until I read the name Vivian - and gosh the excitement and anticipation took over❣️

We meet Mitch in book one of this series as he uses his bad@ss skills as a bartender and later as a bodyguard for Frankie. We also meet Vivian, sexy designer and cousin to Frankie😁 I really enjoyed this story and have to admit, the author certainly notched up the heat and anxiety levels in this story and it was a bit faster paced the last few chapters which spurred me on through the rioting emotions to the finish line….which was so worth it🤩

I can’t wait to find out more about Vinny and his skills and Jen too. I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❤️

[Paperbeautiful · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading Playing With Fire, I was so excited to read Mitch's book and this book did not disappoint.

Mitch and Vivian have a mutual attraction to each other. Vivian does not want anything to happen with Mitch since he is her cousin's best friend and does not want to hurt her. Mitch has never felt an attraction to anyone like he does with Vivian. All Mitch needs to do is breakdown her walls and he will have his forever. Both Mitch and Vivian have issues that they need to work through before they can be together.

When Vivian finally lets her walls down and lets Mitch in is beautiful. Mitch is the perfect man for her to help her with everything she needs. Mitch and Vivian's attraction is a hot and super steamy. The book was emotional with both main character's trying to overcome issues in the past and had a bit of suspense to it as well. I love the fact that Mitch knew her the best out of everyone.

Can't wait for Vinny and Jen's book!

[Michelle Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This friends to lovers story with a former Marine, Mitch, and his rich, clothing designer friend, Vivian had me going through all of the feels!

Initially I was so excited they got to business right off the get go, then was utterly frustrated with the hot and cold rollercoaster train; then my heart was breaking for them, lastly I was crying all the happy tears as everything fell into place, the walls all came falling down and the happily ever after stitched my heart back up.

Mitch and Vivian were fantastic characters that had a lot of depth and serious growth to go through. I love it when things are hard and they truly have to work for the happiness. It makes it a much more powerful and emotional experience to me as a reader.

I loved having the return of some former characters and more introductions to characters with stories to come. I am really looking forward to book three and Vinny’s story.

[Confessions of a Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mitch won my whole heart when it came to Vivian!!

"Can't stay away from you. Can't stop thinking of you. Can't stop falling for you. I want you more than my next breath". With simple comments like this in a book you will definitely be a goner for the Hero and Mitch is the perfect Hero. He never gives up on Vivian and her stubbornness to take a chance on him.

Vivian feels she is a horrible person compared to all of the good people around her and is determined not to act on her feelings for Mitch since he is her cousin's best friend. She hurt her cousin once and doesn't want to do it again but Mitch eventually breaks her down with his relentlessness giving us a fantastic story.

This was my first Ellie Isaacson book and I have to say I really enjoyed it. Her words just flowed so smoothly that before I knew it I was done with the book. I will definitely go back and read book one of this series.

***I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review***

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh this book. So, like the first book, I struggled a bit with the leading lady but then I realized something. Isaacson has given us something so few authors do. Giving us a leading lady who isn’t the one working on the man, isn’t the one fighting for the relationship but fighting against it because she knows she has issues. Then I realized something even more… The reason I struggled is because I WAS THE SAME WAY! There were times I really wanted to smack Vivian but I could really understand why she was protecting herself and those she loves. Then you have Mitch who has his own demons but sees something Vivian and just could not walk away. There are some insane twists in this story that will make your heart race and your heart ache as well. I loved seeing both Mitch and Vivian grow in this story and their sizzling connection was off the charts. Now I am DYING to get my hands on Vinny’s story because I have so many questions!

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love it when authors flip the script on us, and we get to see the heroine being a flight risk, and Vivian definitely was one of those. Mitch is an ex-marine with a big in it to win attitude, and what he wanted was Vivian, so he was willing to chase her down. Vivian wanted Mitch for a very long time, but she didn't think she deserved to be loved so she led him on a merry chase. It gave the story a big push & pull, and it did get frustrating enough that it did slow the story down a tad, which was the only reason why this wasn't quite the perfect read. These two had a lot of chemistry going on so the sparks were flying, and Mitch's persistence was truly refreshing as he had a ton of patience at taking down her walls brick by brick. I do so love this author's writing, so I'm super excited for the next book to come out! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in this series and is Mitch and Vivian’s story. Mitch is charming, determined, and a broody ex-marine, who has demons which have left him with PTSD. Vivian is afraid to open herself up to anyone as she is vulnerable and feels she does not deserve to be loved as she feels responsible for ruining her family. These two are attracted to each other, but Vivian certainly makes Mitch work hard in his determination to pursue her. This is a well written story which is emotionally charged, and with suspense, drama, family, friendships, and is an endearing, humorous, entertaining, and steamy love story. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend.

[Dawn Hix · Rating 4 out of 5]

I tend to read quite a bit of Omegaverse and Fantasy but every now and then I just want/need a feel good love story. This book definitely didn’t disappoint. I loved the characters, having a husband that’s retired military really made Mitch relatable to me. The only thing I do wish is that there had been a little more time taken on Vivian/Vinny/and their dads relationship. I felt like at times she came across as a spoiled brat but it was only because her background wasn’t given more attention. Overall though I would still absolutely recommend this book for a quick “happy” read.

[Hanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me so invested in the characters.
And the outcome of how the story would go.
They both have their own demons and fears to battle and fight.
Mitch is a tortured man.
Dealing with his PTSD and his grief.
Vivian has her own baggage to overcome as well.
Although both are attracted to one another they also need to get over their own hurdles.
I loved Mitch’s persistence and his determination.
And he absolutely needs those two things in order to get Vivian because she is not about to make anything easy on him.
A good captivating emotionally charged friends to lovers story.

[Amy Reyes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Playing hard to get is the second book of the series but can be read as a standalone as I did. It’s about the relationship between main characters Vivian and Mitch. At the very beginning it was kind of hard for me to get into the story. Part of me wanting to get past his marine past but I understand it was needed for the story. Once that was past I was all into the story and enjoying their push and pull. I was even teary eyes at the end. This is a definite recommend.

[˚•—S—•˚ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I liked how It was a personal deep rooted fear that kept them apart and that they had to work through, instead of it being petty dramas or other people causing them problems.

Very much recommend reading this. Can be read as a standalone.

•••I recieved a copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions are my own•••

[Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it !!! love Mitch !!! swoon worthy !!! OMG !!! like Vivian ...sometimes... this is their story... the pull , the insta-love, the can't live without you... it's all there. but, the push is there , too... love that Mitch never gave up...he knew...he just has to convince Vivian...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[wendy Shelton(obsessedbybooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book 2 in the Playing with Hwarts series, each can be read as a stand alone, but would recommend reading in order. Mitch and Vivian come from different worlds. Vivian has a past shes not proud of and believes she doesn't deserve happiness, but meeting Mitch she wants happiness, but keeps pushing him away, but Mitch is head strong in making Vivian his. Great characters and flow of story.

[Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the book it was great; the story was beautifully written, and the characters were intriguing. Wow I am absolutely in love with this book, once I started to read this story I was in a state of euphoria. I had to read the book again.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story that engaged my emotions and made for a delightful read. I requested a copy of this book and am voluntarily writing a review after reading this book which was a very enjoyable read. I loved the drama. I loved the characters. It was a fun story with an emotional impact.

[LianaReads blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars
Rtc

[Kelly Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a little too much slow burn for me personally, but the story itself was really good. I liked the characters and the push and pull between them! This was definitely an emotional roller coaster!
It was just a great read overall!

I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.

[KF Hassall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read!

Ellie weaves a compelling tale about a woman who feels that she doesn’t deserve love. But Mitch just won’t take no for an answer. Both are struggling with their own demons, but through each other find that everyone is deserving of love and find solace in each other.