Iโm not a princess and Colton Montgomery is definitely not my Prince Charming.
Meeting him felt like fate, but Iโve never felt worthy of being by his side. And what should have been my happily ever after is soured, all because he walked away.
To truly move on, to restart, I need him to agree, to sign on the dotted line. To finally let me go.
Instead of a goodbye, he convinces me to stay for a little longer. He wants ten days to prove that we are worth keeping. That we can make what has previously failed, work.
But the fear of being hurt by him is too real, too much.
Can I find a way to work past it so we can get our happily ever after? Or is this a love better off left behind?
Norma Marie is a contemporary romance author who believes in love that heals. With heroโs full of devotion and heroines who find their worth after trauma, her stories will encompass you in swoon worthy moments that steal your breath away.
Residing in Clarksville, TN with her small zoo, Norma Marie can often be found in her craft room playing in glitter and inks or writing stories full of hope and passion. She's a lover of romance and when she isnโt covered in glitter or sitting behind her desk bringing her stories to life, sheโs often sitting on her deck with her kindle and a glass of wine.
I was so excited that I got the chance to Alpha read for Norma. I fell in love with Austin Jane and Colton and I couldnโt wait to see how their story played out.
This was such a beautiful story of second chance romance with a roller coaster of emotions. I wasnโt prepared for how much I was going to love this!
Austin Jane is such a fierce and loving person. I love how sheโs so passionate about what she wants to accomplish. Colton is such a wonderful guy. Despite them not being together for two years he remained loyal to her.
The love between them was so pure and genuine. I found myself rooting for them throughout the whole book.
You will definitely be kept on the edge of your seat and you will have moments of โOMG did that just happenโ but trust me you will love every part of their story.
Thank you Norma for bringing me along on this journey and making such a wonderful book. I canโt wait to read more!
This is a beautifully written story of second chances; beating the odds and finding who you are and what your place in the world is. Austin Jane & Colton are everything!! The heat, the gamut of emotions that comes from taking a huge chance when everything you cherish is at stake.ย This was an epic love story that will make you laugh, cry & swoon! This book keeps you on your toes, Itโs one of those stories you never want to end. It was truly a breath-taking five-star read.
Second chance, angsty, this book had it all! I had read Normaโs first book to this one and I knew I needed to read this one! This book ran my emotions and my feels all over the place but it was so beautifully written that I read it in like 7 hours..๐ ๐
I absolutely love second chance romances, this book was incredibly easy to read which meant that it was very hard to put down (hence reading it in one sitting).
This book was both full of love as well as heartbreaking, I fell in love with Austin and Colton and never wanted this book to end. This book was written perfectly and I love Normaโs writing style.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received a advance copy from the author for opinion which is my own. This is normally not a book I would typically pick up on my own but I decided I wanted to read outside my book comfort zone.I have never read any books by this author I found Austin's home life sad but was glad she finally found a home and meeting Colton.I was rooting for them to get back together how much they both still loved each other.They just needed to work on their communication problems they had letting the other one know about the goals they were trying to achieve for both futures-Colton I was like he forgot to explain everything to Austin in the beginning of the book.
I received an advanced copy of this book, but my review is all my own. This book is a slow burn that I love. This couple comes through the struggle to get together. I loved this book so much and everything Norma Marie writes! Can't wait for the next one to come out!
This was just a beautifully written book with so much emotions and i loved every bit of it.
Austin Jane had been in the system since she was 6 years old. Going from one foster home to another and non officially adopting her. She's been through so much heartache believing that everyone always leaves her. She meets Colton at 16 years old. Little by little they grow closer to each other and Colton helps her out of her pain and shows her what it's like to be loved. From the moment Colton met Austin Jane he knew she was the one. So as soon as she graduated from College he knew he had to make her his in every way, ending up getting married. But everything changes when Colton wants to move to San Diego for start up a business with best friends but Austin Jane is unable to move from the place she has finally built for herself at one of the top nonprofit organizations in the state in Oregon. And then Colton walks away not looking back. This is second chance romance with so much love and heartache combined. Two very likeable Main Characters who have been apart for 2 years and trying to find a way back to each other while the FMC is still struggling with the fears of getting her heart broken all over again.
Thank you so much, Norma, for the ARC of your book for an honest review โก
I'm going to be honest, this isn't typically the type of book I'd normally read. I'm not a big fan of second chance romances, but before I knew it, the book was done. I gobbled it up in one sitting.
Austin Jane and Colton's story was heartbreaking with him leaving her in Oregon to pursue his dream with zero contact and Austin Jane's story with bouncing around group homes as a child... Definitely tugged on my heartstrings pretty hard. I absolutely loved that Austin was able to turn her past into a career to help children.
I was pleased with how it was written when they came back together. It wasn't super cliche or predictable (which I've found is common with this trope), and I definitely appreciated that. I also loved being able to see Colton's emotional side and how he processed everything alongside Austin. The spicy scenes weren't rushed and were both hot and romantic. I loved it!
What I was missing: This is just personal preference, but I would've loved to know more about Colton's trip to Oregon... The travel, the anxiety, the anxiousness. But just my overwhelming need for detail x10!
Definitely recommend this book! I can't wait for Asher's story! (Redemption? ๐ค๐ป)
Overall, this story was written really well.ย There were good character descriptions and no going back and forth from past to present. There was good character development, and everything seemed to flow. However, the ending of this book leaves you wanting more. I wish there would have been a better epilogue or even a bonus chapter to get a better conclusion to Austin Jane and Coltons story.
What I liked:
I typically do not like 2nd chance romances, but this one was pretty good. I felt the heartbreak that Austin Jane felt when Colton left her. I found myself smiling through this entire book and rooting for things to work out for Austin and Colton. I was able to keep up without having read the first book in this series of interconnected standalones. I like that when Coltons friend Asher tries to mess everything up, he goes to fights for her like he should have done the first time.
What I didn't like:
I felt like Austin gave into Colton too soon. while he convinced her to stay with him for a few days, and he showed her what their life could be like, I still feel like there could have been to the story. I even thought this is 2nd change romance. There was a point where they were back together, and that dreaded 3rd act break ups happens. The ending. It just leaves you wanting more from these two. I'm not sure if there is another book for Austin and Colton coming or not, but this ending just didn't do it for me.
Colton and Austin Jane met when they were sixteen and they were together all through high school and even though they went to separate colleges they saw each other all the time. When she graduated Colton shows up and asked her to marry him and she says yes. Then he wants them to move to San Diego but she says no and he leaves that was two years ago. After two years she decides to send him divorce papers even though she still loves him. When Colton gets the papers he is not happy because he still loves her so he texts her to come see him. In a weird turn of events she goes to San Diego and tells him and that they should meet up. Can they save the marriage or is it too late ? Love Austin Jane and Colton. Great supporting characters I couldnโt put this book down. Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing book This book has all the feels
I devoured this book. Austin's back story about being in foster care and feeling like she was never good enough and always being left behind was so heartbreaking. As a foster mom I have seen first hand the pain these kids go through. Knowing that the older a kid is the less likely they will be adopted. It's so sad, but it's also so true. There are way too many kids who just age out of the system. Austin didn't let her childhood take her down a dark path. Instead, she made sure to be who she needed as a kid for others. Colton was young but he did what everyone else did to her, left and never came back. He crushed her! I am so glad we got both POVs because if not I would have hated him. He was just lost in his plan and couldn't see anything else.
I was hooked on Coltonโs story since we were first introduced to Colton and his mystery wife. I was not prepared for all the emotions I would be feeling while reading Colton and Austin Janeโs story. This second chance romance had me hook from the very begging. I loved that both characters well were written and very mature, no going back and forth and messy pointless arguments.
This book was so easy to read and before I knew it, I was done with the book.
Such a great 2nd chance romance! Norma did it again yโall! This is the 2nd book in the billionaire players club series and itโs definitely as good as the first. This series is about billionaire male best friends and this story was Coltonโs. Colton lives in LA and as far as his friends know heโs divorced from his high school/ college sweetheart but still never dates or has time for women. Little do they realize itโs because heโs not divorced and still hung up on the one he let get away. Austin Jane is his estranged wife who lives in Oregon pretending he heart isnโt broken from the husband that walked away. When she finally serves him with divorce papers, everything changes. AJ is a social worker who gets a change to be close to Colton in LA for a conference. This leads to him proving to her that heโs changed and will do anything to win her back. They have ups and down and oh are they so good! I laughed so much and even cried. At first, I wasnโt sure if I liked Colton but he slowly wins your heart by the end of the story. AJ has no idea how strong of a women she is but as the story moves along she starts to find that strength and her attitude. And boy is it great! But yโall! The ending is everything!!! This can absolutely be read as a stand-alone but I strongly recommend reading the first book in the serious so all the ones after continue to flow together. You donโt want to miss these boys stories, I promise!
Love me a second chance romance. Austin and Colten make a cute couple! I love that it goes between points of view! Seeing Austin grow up and went through her struggles and seeing her finally happy just makes it all the sweeter. I felt for her with all that she went through and all the heartache she went through. The time they had a part really helped them grow and Iโm so glad they gave it another chance.
Well, I guess after reading this one fairytales do exist, or do they you will have to read to find out!!! Austin Jane hasn't had the easiest of life's so far, but she's fierce and so passionate about what she believes and what she wants to accomplish in her life. She thought she had it all in her sights even though she didn't think she was worthy until he walked away. The Knight in Shining Armour Colton Montgomery is the caring, most compassionate man but just doesn't have a clue. He knows Austin is his world and that everything he does, he does for her even walking away!!! Rhis second chance romance as it all and eill take you on one hell of a ride, keeping you on the edge of your seat. This beautifully written book will give you all the feels and play on your emotions. This is book 2 in the Billionaire Series, and I would definitely recommend it, but read The Power Player first, which is book one.
Another โญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธโญ๏ธ read from Norma Marie.
Thank you Norma Marie for writing such a wonderful book! I canโt wait for the next one!
When I started reading I was reading really fast and then I got into the book so I started reading really slow just so I can soak up this book and I didnโt want it to end. Iโm so glad Colton and Austin found their way to each other after being separated for 2 years while still being married! That was a big shocker. Luckily fate was on their side and brought them together. Kinda wish she punched Asher in the face. But this book was really cute and made me smile the entire time. I love books that keep my attention and this is one of the books that kept my attention. So thank you again Norma for writing this and bringing Colton and Austin into our fantasy world๐ฉต
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
โThe Reformed Playerโ is the second book in Norma Marieโs Billionaire Players series, and it checked off all my boxes and more!!! Colton and Austin Jane have been in love since they were teenagers, but circumstances pushed them apart. Austin sends Colton divorce papers, but heโs determined to win back her affections. I thought this book was really good; it was also angsty and emotional and a little unconventional. I loved Coltonโs charm, and I loved the fact that he never once cheated on Austin, even while they were separated. Austin has such a big heart, and I loved her sass. All in all, this was a fantastic read.
OMG!!! This book was so amazing and it was a page turner and suspense was like WOW!!! I could not put this book this down not even for a minute it suck me right in the story. I just these main characters of this story. Austin and Colton chemistry was like fireworks and the attraction was so beautiful it was breathe taking. It had love, romance,and drama and that was a thriller for me! I might read this book over again. You will not be disappoint at all!!! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a honest review. Trina Jones
Loved this book! I typically read dark romance but I got to ARC this book and I'm so happy I did. It hits all the soft spots in my heart. It is a second chance romance with all the feels. Parts of it even hit close to home. My husband and I have been together since I was 16. Traveled some rough waters over the thirty plus years. I definitely recommend this book!
If you haven't read anything by Ms. Marie I suggested that you should. I knew I would fall in love with this series and this is only the second book in the series. I loved Colton in the first book and this book caused me to love him more. Austin Jane was amazing and I couldn't think of a better female main character. Their ride was not easy but I was all in. I needed to know how this ended. I needed to follow their path. This book was the perfect mix of a second-chance romance it wasn't too much or too little. Can't wait to see what the next book brings.
I loved Austin Jane and Coltonโs second chance story. Iโve been waiting on there story and Norma has done a great job. I love how Colton didnโt give up on there love and started fighting for Austin. Well written filled with a lot of emotions.
Such an amazing addition to the series. I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC in return for an honest review. I donโt know where to start with how much I loved this book.
Austin Jane aka AJ came from nothing. She grew up tossed around from foster home to foster home and never expected anyone to stick around long. Until she met Colton.
He became the consistent figure in her life from age 16 then married her after she graduated college. But sometimes our relationships and dreams do not match up. Certain she was going to move to California with him, Colton was blindsided when AJ refused. She finally felt like she belonged somewhere and was establishing herself in a career field she loved. Instead of talking it though Colton leaves, determined to show her the life he can build for them in California. I know, what a big oaf.
In the two years they have been apart he has remained loyal but silent not sure how to reach out after such a long period. But when AJ sends him divorce paperwork he quickly realizes his error and works to not lose the woman of his dreams.
This couple will have you swooning and rooting for their HEA the entire journey. Both characters are well rounded and realistic. The settings are vivid and draw you into the atmosphere whether itโs the beach or an amazing restaurant you will be transported into their world. Oh and I cannot forget to mention Coltonโs pool. Side note - OMG that pool scene!
Iโm anxiously awaiting the next book in the series and any book that Norma Marie writes. Well done!
The Reformed Player (Billionaire Players #2) by Norma Marie is a contemporary second-chance billionaire romance told in first person dual POV. The story follows the relationship between Colton Montgomery, billionaire and investment-firm COO, and Austin Jane Thompson, his highschool sweetheart and estranged wife.
Austin Jane and her husband, Colton, haven't spoken in two years. After surviving the distance of attending college in separate states, they were married shortly after graduation. Colton wanted them to move to California so he could start a business with his college friends, but Austin Jane had just established herself in the community with a great job in her field and didnโt want to leave Oregon to start all over again. When she expressed this to Colton, they argued, and then he left. Austin Jane had hoped that heโd come back to work things out, but he never returned, and she never heard from him again.
Two years have passed, and Austin Jane wants to move on with her life, so sheโs finally filed for divorce. But Coltonโs not willing to sign the papers unless they meet and talk face to face. What if he doesnโt want to sign them at all? After all this time, will Colton be able to win Austin Jane back? Or is it too late to mend their broken relationship?
I enjoyed Austin Jane and Coltonโs story. As characters, they were both well-developed, likable, and relatable. I found it easy to connect with them and stay invested the whole way through. Second chance is one of my favorite tropes, and The Reformed Player did not disappoint. It was emotional, sweet, and steamy. Iโm really looking forward to Asherโs story next! I love a good redemption story and have a feeling that it might end up being my favorite of the bunch.
First, thank you to Norma Marie for the opportunity to read your book in exchange for my review.
The story of Austin Jane and Colton is one that is about second chances, forgiveness, and trying to heal past mistakes. The backstory of Austin's past is a heavy one. Growing up in foster care, feeling alone, and navigating through that environment. And her path will lead her to Colton and a connection will be made. One that will be mutual and blossom into love and marriage. But unfortunately, life, well Colton, decides to throw a curve ball into the mix and things don't go quite as planned. I was like, are you kidding me?! You cannot do that to your wife.๐ It's called communication.
Norma is a great writer. She gives expressive details to the story, setting up the first meeting, after two years, between our main couple. The first half of the book is nothing like the last part. It moves quickly. I liked it! I wanted Austin Jane to be more feisty, to not be quite as accepting toward Colton and his plans. Make him work to earn her trust again. Give him some of his own medicine. And Colton needs to stop pleasing his friends, getting their approval on who he loves. Time to grow up. Oh Asher. You got on my nerves dude! But I'm not going to spoil the story Norma wrote. You have to go and find out if Austin and Colton moved past what happened and reconnected. Did love find a way? Is this time, forever? If you like some spice in your romances, this one has that. I hope you will go and get Norma's book. Enjoy.๐ป
Norma Rae is back with another unforgettable and unputdownable addition to her ( Billionaire Players Series) a series that is very quickly becoming one of my faves . I tend to read a ton of dark romances so itโs not often I get to pick up a book that has the ability to put a smile on my face , to make me laugh out loud and to make me cry all at the same time . But thatโs exactly what this amazing story has done .Colton and Austin just grabbed onto my heart so tightly and refused to let go . Both were so likable and relatable not to mention very unique and multi layered ( the more I got to know them the more I fell in love . I am such a sucker for a great second chance / billionaire romance and theirs was the perfect blend of both . Itโs filled with angst , humor , witty banter , heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, family , friendships, obstacles, unexpected surprises, fun , steamy and romantic moments, awesome world building, and so much more then words can express . In my honest opinion there are not any perfect words to express what a phenomenal job Norma has done writing this story itโs simply something you need to experience by picking it up and reading.
If you're a fan of sweet, scorching heat and believe in the power of second chances, The Reformed Player is a must-read. I cried and sighed, gnashed my teeth, and cheered while reading about Austin and Colton's journey to rediscovering their love.
Austin and Colton knew their love was meant to be. From their first meeting as teenagers, Colton gave Austin a true sense of belonging that growing up in the system never did. He represented home until the day he walked away and moved to a different state, and their marriage became long-distance. He's now a billionaire with his buddies in California, and she is a social worker helping kids gain a better life in Oregon. After two long years of living separately, Colton gets served with divorce papers. Not believing this is their end, he gives Austin an ultimatum, forcing Austin to face her husband one last time before he signs the papers. Can he convince his wife that he still loves her deeply and wants their marriage, or has he irreparably torn them apart?
Aparently being celibate during a long separation is not enough for me in second chances... He really is a Zero, I don't believe he would never call her... she served divorce papers and then, pufff, you are mine after two years of radio silence, she even buried her foster parents alone... She deserved better, she was stronger, more capable and smarter than him and she agrees so easily to everything...so sad, He never really worked hard for her, he only convinces her to stay with him for ten days and see how things go... in their first conversation after two years! I love a good angry heroine, I'm tired of the sweetness and forgiving type, Two stars because I've read this book in one sitting and the author made it easy for my poor english...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.