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Games #5.5
Pleasure Games
Glass artisan Juno Ashmore’s bank account has hit the skids lately. When she’s invited to mysterious Eden to film the reality TV show Pleasures of Eden, she’s not interested. Swanky island location? Billionaire bachelor? No thanks. But when she hears the contestant payment fee of fifty thousand dollars — just for showing up, Pleasures of Eden suddenly sounds more interesting. Screw the billionaire bachelor! Juno will take the contestant fee and have herself a nice beach vacation.
But the billionaire bachelor is none other than Heathcliff Forester, the sexy, arrogant man who broke her heart in college. And Heathcliff’s made it clear that he’s not interested in any girl but Juno. In fact, it’s looking more and more like he’s rigged the entire show just to bring her into his arms again. It should make Juno furious, but all she can think about is what it’d be like to spend her nights in Eden in his bed…
*Part of the Invitation to Eden multi-author series but can be read as a standalone.
But the billionaire bachelor is none other than Heathcliff Forester, the sexy, arrogant man who broke her heart in college. And Heathcliff’s made it clear that he’s not interested in any girl but Juno. In fact, it’s looking more and more like he’s rigged the entire show just to bring her into his arms again. It should make Juno furious, but all she can think about is what it’d be like to spend her nights in Eden in his bed…
*Part of the Invitation to Eden multi-author series but can be read as a standalone.
125 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2014
23 people are currently reading
736 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Clare
69 books4,453 followersThis is a pen name for Jill Myles.
Jill Myles has been an incurable romantic since childhood. She reads all the 'naughty parts' of books first, looks for a dirty joke in just about everything, and thinks to this day that the Little House on the Prairie books should have been steamier.
After devouring hundreds of paperback romances, mythology books, and archaeological tomes, she decided to write a few books of her own - stories with a wild adventure, sharp banter, and lots of super-sexy situations. She prefers her heroes alpha and half-dressed, her heroines witty, and she loves nothing more than watching them overcome adversity to fall into bed together.
Jill Myles has been an incurable romantic since childhood. She reads all the 'naughty parts' of books first, looks for a dirty joke in just about everything, and thinks to this day that the Little House on the Prairie books should have been steamier.
After devouring hundreds of paperback romances, mythology books, and archaeological tomes, she decided to write a few books of her own - stories with a wild adventure, sharp banter, and lots of super-sexy situations. She prefers her heroes alpha and half-dressed, her heroines witty, and she loves nothing more than watching them overcome adversity to fall into bed together.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
December 10, 2017
This was just MEH.
It's readable, but clichèd, slightly boring and left me feeling like the author didn't put a lot of effort or heart into it.
It's readable, but clichèd, slightly boring and left me feeling like the author didn't put a lot of effort or heart into it.
January 26, 2015
Jessica Clare/Jill Myles/Jessica Sims is one of the authors I follow fairly closely. It all started when I picked up the freebie "Wicked Games." I wasn't expecting much, but to my surprise, it made me laugh, which is pretty hard to do. Before I knew it, I was hooked. I bought her other books and have liked a lot of them. I'm currently working my way through her backlist.
The "Games" series is one of my favorite series by her, and while this is the latest entry in her series, it just didn't feel the same. It had less humor (one of her trademarks) and less steam (also one of her trademarks). Heathcliff wasn't as sexy as her usual heroes - think Jendan or Hunter. The romance between him and Juno lacked intensity, and I just felt like the story needed more length.
This is one of her Games books, but it's also a book for the "Invitation to Eden" continuity series she has going on with other authors. I feel like the constraints of that series limited this book. I felt like her naturally bubbly/snarky/contemporary voice was stifled here.
I do like this read, but it was quick and short, and it lacked the usual verve you can find in other Games books. Try one of her OTHER books if you're reading Jessica Clare/Jill Myles/Jessica Sims for the first time.
The "Games" series is one of my favorite series by her, and while this is the latest entry in her series, it just didn't feel the same. It had less humor (one of her trademarks) and less steam (also one of her trademarks). Heathcliff wasn't as sexy as her usual heroes - think Jendan or Hunter. The romance between him and Juno lacked intensity, and I just felt like the story needed more length.
This is one of her Games books, but it's also a book for the "Invitation to Eden" continuity series she has going on with other authors. I feel like the constraints of that series limited this book. I felt like her naturally bubbly/snarky/contemporary voice was stifled here.
I do like this read, but it was quick and short, and it lacked the usual verve you can find in other Games books. Try one of her OTHER books if you're reading Jessica Clare/Jill Myles/Jessica Sims for the first time.
December 9, 2014
I awaited this books for months since I am a fan of the author and the series but what I really got was a disappointment. This felt more like a shameless plug in for the publishing house new Eden series than an actual game novel. I do not mind an introduction to a new series but I mind a book disguise as something else. It was not about the game or about the couple it was about the island and how to get the reader engage in the new series and I did not care for it.
When it came down to the story I found it rush and lacking the fun couple engagement that the series normally have.The male part felt desperate instead of romantic and the female was aggravating. The resolution came way too fast and the other contestant completely ignore, it went from 24 to 6 in two days without any action. Hope the next book will bring the old charm back.
When it came down to the story I found it rush and lacking the fun couple engagement that the series normally have.The male part felt desperate instead of romantic and the female was aggravating. The resolution came way too fast and the other contestant completely ignore, it went from 24 to 6 in two days without any action. Hope the next book will bring the old charm back.
December 7, 2014
*SNIFF* That was sweet... Can't wait for the next book in this series; Partner Games!!!!
February 5, 2017
Cute, short, predictable, adorable.
Mainly though, I adored Juno.
Mainly though, I adored Juno.
January 8, 2015
When this one started I didn't think I was going to like it, the set-up seemed a bit too contrived. Like Heathcliff was setting up Juno to get back at her. But as things went on I found myself rooting for Heathcliff, for Juno to lighten up and give him a chance again. I love that Heathcliff ditched the show when he got what he really wanted in Juno!
May 11, 2015
It was okay. I like the game series but this one, it kind of lack the character build up. But then, just as the letter said, not much could be get from the shoots for the show because it looks like its been rigged. They couldn't make good tv.
December 11, 2014
I paid what for this story? very disappointed, I love her other game books but this was lacked many things. I guess you get so many pages when writing for the Invitation to Eden.
June 1, 2018
Welcome to a dating show... with a twist!
I have to say that while this book is called Pleasure Games there was little pleasure or games. :P But I still had tons of fun reading this one, and I loved the dating show element (even if it was 110% rigged).
Meet our MC, Juno (loving her name), she is a glass blower/artisian and isn't having the greatest time, her finances are at an all time low, so when her best friend convinces her to participate with a dating show that promises all contests a flat 50k fee just for participating she is in (well, with some convincing from her friend). I just adored that Juno had such an unusual job, I haven't read many books that feature someone having this job. I had lots of fun reading her reactions to Heathcliff, her ex. She sure was pissed at the dude, but I also love that she was slowly starting to change as the days passed in the resort. She was definitely jealous when he picked another girl, when he had more attention for someone else. It just made me snicker. You can try all you want girl, but your body is clearly telling you to just go for it. Just forgive him already, besides you were also wrong in the whole affair, and just go for it.
I knew right from the bat that his whole show was rigged, thanks to the comments at the beginning of the chapters. Sure, I didn't know who Heathcliff was until he was introduced, but then it all clicked. I have to say at first I found it quite creepy that he would go through such lengths to get his girl back, but after a while I found it quite cute that he tried all sorts of things and then just settled for a dating show to get Juno back. Hey, the guy is dedicated. He is trying to say sorry, and also talk to her and try to make a future with her again.
I loved that Juno had a friend with her on the inside, someone who totally understood Juno's POV on Heathcliff, and also was happily supporting them, though of course also wanting her to be honest, because Leona was definitely interested in Heathcliff. Leona was just the best, and she had some of the best comments in the book.
Heathcliff? Sorry to say but he reminded me of an old vampire. The way he talked, the way he acted, the way he charmed girls, everything. So I am sorry, I just couldn't unsee it after that. But I did like the guy.
And of course, like any dating show, we had our share of mean/bitchy girls or girls wayyyyy to desperate.
Oh, and the reason why Heathcliff and Juno broke up? I have to say I wasn't happy with both of them, though I can imagine why Heathcliff was pissed. Come on girl, you didn't even talk to him, instead you decided that the best course of action was to walk away in the midst of the night. Not even talking to her boyfriend about her plans, or to talk to him about how she felt. Of course poop hit the fan. In the end both of them were at fault, though I can kind of forgive Heathcliff. It was quite interesting that at first it seemed it was all his fault, but then we find out the truth.
Unlike most of the books in this series, this one was very tame. There is one sex scene near the end and that is it. It was still a very steamy sex scene so it more than made up for the lack of it.
All in all, I quite enjoyed this one and I would recommend it. I hope that the author will continue to write more Games books.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I have to say that while this book is called Pleasure Games there was little pleasure or games. :P But I still had tons of fun reading this one, and I loved the dating show element (even if it was 110% rigged).
Meet our MC, Juno (loving her name), she is a glass blower/artisian and isn't having the greatest time, her finances are at an all time low, so when her best friend convinces her to participate with a dating show that promises all contests a flat 50k fee just for participating she is in (well, with some convincing from her friend). I just adored that Juno had such an unusual job, I haven't read many books that feature someone having this job. I had lots of fun reading her reactions to Heathcliff, her ex. She sure was pissed at the dude, but I also love that she was slowly starting to change as the days passed in the resort. She was definitely jealous when he picked another girl, when he had more attention for someone else. It just made me snicker. You can try all you want girl, but your body is clearly telling you to just go for it. Just forgive him already, besides you were also wrong in the whole affair, and just go for it.
I knew right from the bat that his whole show was rigged, thanks to the comments at the beginning of the chapters. Sure, I didn't know who Heathcliff was until he was introduced, but then it all clicked. I have to say at first I found it quite creepy that he would go through such lengths to get his girl back, but after a while I found it quite cute that he tried all sorts of things and then just settled for a dating show to get Juno back. Hey, the guy is dedicated. He is trying to say sorry, and also talk to her and try to make a future with her again.
I loved that Juno had a friend with her on the inside, someone who totally understood Juno's POV on Heathcliff, and also was happily supporting them, though of course also wanting her to be honest, because Leona was definitely interested in Heathcliff. Leona was just the best, and she had some of the best comments in the book.
Heathcliff? Sorry to say but he reminded me of an old vampire. The way he talked, the way he acted, the way he charmed girls, everything. So I am sorry, I just couldn't unsee it after that. But I did like the guy.
And of course, like any dating show, we had our share of mean/bitchy girls or girls wayyyyy to desperate.
Oh, and the reason why Heathcliff and Juno broke up? I have to say I wasn't happy with both of them, though I can imagine why Heathcliff was pissed. Come on girl, you didn't even talk to him, instead you decided that the best course of action was to walk away in the midst of the night. Not even talking to her boyfriend about her plans, or to talk to him about how she felt. Of course poop hit the fan. In the end both of them were at fault, though I can kind of forgive Heathcliff. It was quite interesting that at first it seemed it was all his fault, but then we find out the truth.
Unlike most of the books in this series, this one was very tame. There is one sex scene near the end and that is it. It was still a very steamy sex scene so it more than made up for the lack of it.
All in all, I quite enjoyed this one and I would recommend it. I hope that the author will continue to write more Games books.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
March 26, 2024
Billionaire makes rigged reality dating show to get girl back. As one does when they have this kind of money.
HEA. Standalone. Comes from among connected universes, but not interconnected stories.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5: Romance with explicit sex scenes or heavy petting, with generally milder language.
Tropes: Billionaire, Reality TV, Second chance
Setting: Beach hotel
Subplots beyond the main & romantic plotlines: It's a short, so no. The main couple's romance is well-focused and explored.
Character Juno: Artistic, abrasive, mistrusting
Character Heathcliff: Obsessive, romantic, billionaire
Note: I provide full star ratings for books I complete, aiming to accentuate their strengths while refraining from negative critiques. I believe in honoring authors for their hard work and bravery in sharing their creations with the world.
HEA. Standalone. Comes from among connected universes, but not interconnected stories.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5: Romance with explicit sex scenes or heavy petting, with generally milder language.
Tropes: Billionaire, Reality TV, Second chance
Setting: Beach hotel
Subplots beyond the main & romantic plotlines: It's a short, so no. The main couple's romance is well-focused and explored.
Character Juno: Artistic, abrasive, mistrusting
Character Heathcliff: Obsessive, romantic, billionaire
Note: I provide full star ratings for books I complete, aiming to accentuate their strengths while refraining from negative critiques. I believe in honoring authors for their hard work and bravery in sharing their creations with the world.
September 7, 2021
I wish I can get the couple hours it took me to read this one back. I hate how mean that sounds but dear god this one was not good at all, and I tried really hard to find any redeeming qualities but came up short. It made no sense, was really weird and boring, plus I immensely disliked both main characters. I think what I've found from this series is that it cannot be done in a novella length book, these stories really need to be told in a full length format otherwise it is way too rushed which doesn't give you any time to understand or grow to be interested in the mcs, plus it makes the reunion/meet up/love story feel so rushed and flat. But that being said I don't think I would have enjoyed this one even if it was a full length book because the concept was just beyond ludicrous to me and would not have fooled anyone with any sort of sense.
March 23, 2019
This is a standalone book in the Games series. It is part of a multi author series on the Island of Eden, where "all your dreams can come true".
Juno is a glass blowing artist at the Renaissance Faire seasonally. Off season, she works to stock her beautiful creations. She was burned in love almost a decade ago when she and her live in boyfriend wanted different things in life and she has skipped romance in favor of growing her business ever since.
Heathcliff never stopped loving Juno. He has come up with the crazy idea of a bachelor game show to lure Juno back to him. Thirty women will come Eden to compete for the billionaire's attention, but only one ever had it to begin with.
Juno is a glass blowing artist at the Renaissance Faire seasonally. Off season, she works to stock her beautiful creations. She was burned in love almost a decade ago when she and her live in boyfriend wanted different things in life and she has skipped romance in favor of growing her business ever since.
Heathcliff never stopped loving Juno. He has come up with the crazy idea of a bachelor game show to lure Juno back to him. Thirty women will come Eden to compete for the billionaire's attention, but only one ever had it to begin with.
March 17, 2018
This was one was boring and not as fun.
It felt like half a story and has no stakes. I wished they actually went through the process of the show rather than just have it be rigged.
I've realized what worked for me with the Games series is the competition aspect being a major plot point. It helps drive the story and keeps interesting.
2/5
It felt like half a story and has no stakes. I wished they actually went through the process of the show rather than just have it be rigged.
I've realized what worked for me with the Games series is the competition aspect being a major plot point. It helps drive the story and keeps interesting.
2/5
May 24, 2020
Great tension!
I don't usually enjoy novellas. They don't usually seem like there is enough time to build the tension in the book, to make it believable. But I have to say I tried this one, and I didn't see it coming. But it did, like a freight train. It surged through the story and blew through all the barriers. Great read!!
I don't usually enjoy novellas. They don't usually seem like there is enough time to build the tension in the book, to make it believable. But I have to say I tried this one, and I didn't see it coming. But it did, like a freight train. It surged through the story and blew through all the barriers. Great read!!
July 28, 2021
Juno the heroine was insufferable. Emotionally immature, especially when you learn all the effort that the hero Healthcliff put in to keep in touch which she rejected for 8 years straight despite him being her one true love. The 3 stars are for him, although he was a bit over the top as well. Not a great read.
August 30, 2022
If The Bachelor was rigged mixed with a bit of Cinderella. This short story would be it.
On the real, forget the main two. Leona is a gem and I’m sad this is the end to the game series bc she deserved her own book.
On the real, forget the main two. Leona is a gem and I’m sad this is the end to the game series bc she deserved her own book.
March 27, 2018
I’ve loved this series for a long time and it appears that this one is the last one (nooooo). It definitely wasn’t the strongest by any means but it was cute!
May 30, 2024
Meh. Barely any spice and book ended abruptly.
March 17, 2025
This is probably my least favorite of the series so far (just feels so short and rushed… although the premise was promising!)
March 9, 2017
-5 stars
Heroin's POV
Exciting and interesting!! I was so exited to read it and I just noticed that there were only a few chapters. Well it didn't stop me from reading it. I like the flow, the characters, the back story, the drama. I enjoyed reading this. I haven't read all the books from the series, I think this is the 3rd or 4th book that I've read but I chose this because of the plot!!
I'm giving it 5 stars instead of 4 because of the plot. It's been awhile since I've read about ex lovers then add the bachelor show that alone deserves a 5!!
Hopefully the rest of the novel is as good as this or better.
Heroin's POV
Exciting and interesting!! I was so exited to read it and I just noticed that there were only a few chapters. Well it didn't stop me from reading it. I like the flow, the characters, the back story, the drama. I enjoyed reading this. I haven't read all the books from the series, I think this is the 3rd or 4th book that I've read but I chose this because of the plot!!
I'm giving it 5 stars instead of 4 because of the plot. It's been awhile since I've read about ex lovers then add the bachelor show that alone deserves a 5!!
Hopefully the rest of the novel is as good as this or better.
April 17, 2015
This is another novella in the Games series, and the most recently published (come on, Book 6!). It’s also part of the Invitation to Eden series, which is written by multiple authors and centers around a private island in the Caribbean with an exotic hotel. It’s probably populated by billionaires and sex clubs, I don’t know.
The “show” in this story is called Pleasures of Eden, and it’s a dating show like The Bachelor. Juno is an artisan glassblower who has a stall at a Renaissance faire. I’m going to stop right here and tell you that Juno’s job was my favorite part of this story. I liked to hear her bemoan the costs of silica and metal oxides, explain how she wore pants and no makeup and put her hair up because she was close to a furnace all day, get inspired by the world around her. It’s just such a cool-sounding job.
Anyway, Juno needs money because rent is going up. Her friend convinces her to audition for a dating show. Isn’t it always the friend’s fault? The show has a minimum payout for filming the first episode, so Juno goes along for the money and the vacation.
It turns out that the bachelor is Heathcliff Forester, the billionaire who broke her heart about eight years ago. I’m going to stop again and say that reunited lovers stories are just not my thing. At all. Also, his name is Heathcliff, for real, and he’s a brooding bachelor. He does not have a sex dungeon, though. (The hotel has one, but he doesn’t use it.)
So, I admit defeat. This is the first Jessica Clare book that I didn’t enjoy. It’s not her, it’s me. (Or it’s the Eden premise that she had to write around.) I read this while my kindergartener competed in a chess tournament all day. I wanted the gooey goodness that the other Games books have, but this had to fit in the Eden setting, and Heathcliff was too boring to make me forget that I was hanging out at a chess tournament.
Like all Games books, this was told from only one point of view. We know all about Juno, the introverted artist who chose her career over love. We’re told that, back in college, she loved Heathcliff, the outgoing football player. But on the island? He’s kind of a boring enigmatic rich guy. I felt like he spoke Billionaire — making pronouncements, expecting people to worship him, acting suavely distant, yet ruthlessly pursuing the woman. I don’t read billionaire books (except for Jessica Clare’s! I’m so conflicted!) because I feel like that’s their schtick and it’s not for me.
Some people could totally dig Heathcliff’s machinations to get Juno back, though. He set up the whole show for her! He always only ever wanted Juno! It’s all a facade! Soylent green is people! Ahem. He wants her, she hates him, but she can’t resist a man in a hot tub.
There’s some nice descriptions of Juno’s outfits, and her friend is really good at braiding hair. I liked that. I wish I had so much hair that it could be braided to look like a conch shell.
Rating: D
This review was originally posted on Red Hot Books at: http://redhotbooks.com/2015/04/review...
The “show” in this story is called Pleasures of Eden, and it’s a dating show like The Bachelor. Juno is an artisan glassblower who has a stall at a Renaissance faire. I’m going to stop right here and tell you that Juno’s job was my favorite part of this story. I liked to hear her bemoan the costs of silica and metal oxides, explain how she wore pants and no makeup and put her hair up because she was close to a furnace all day, get inspired by the world around her. It’s just such a cool-sounding job.
Anyway, Juno needs money because rent is going up. Her friend convinces her to audition for a dating show. Isn’t it always the friend’s fault? The show has a minimum payout for filming the first episode, so Juno goes along for the money and the vacation.
It turns out that the bachelor is Heathcliff Forester, the billionaire who broke her heart about eight years ago. I’m going to stop again and say that reunited lovers stories are just not my thing. At all. Also, his name is Heathcliff, for real, and he’s a brooding bachelor. He does not have a sex dungeon, though. (The hotel has one, but he doesn’t use it.)
So, I admit defeat. This is the first Jessica Clare book that I didn’t enjoy. It’s not her, it’s me. (Or it’s the Eden premise that she had to write around.) I read this while my kindergartener competed in a chess tournament all day. I wanted the gooey goodness that the other Games books have, but this had to fit in the Eden setting, and Heathcliff was too boring to make me forget that I was hanging out at a chess tournament.
Like all Games books, this was told from only one point of view. We know all about Juno, the introverted artist who chose her career over love. We’re told that, back in college, she loved Heathcliff, the outgoing football player. But on the island? He’s kind of a boring enigmatic rich guy. I felt like he spoke Billionaire — making pronouncements, expecting people to worship him, acting suavely distant, yet ruthlessly pursuing the woman. I don’t read billionaire books (except for Jessica Clare’s! I’m so conflicted!) because I feel like that’s their schtick and it’s not for me.
Some people could totally dig Heathcliff’s machinations to get Juno back, though. He set up the whole show for her! He always only ever wanted Juno! It’s all a facade! Soylent green is people! Ahem. He wants her, she hates him, but she can’t resist a man in a hot tub.
There’s some nice descriptions of Juno’s outfits, and her friend is really good at braiding hair. I liked that. I wish I had so much hair that it could be braided to look like a conch shell.
Rating: D
This review was originally posted on Red Hot Books at: http://redhotbooks.com/2015/04/review...
January 14, 2015
3.5 Stars. I’m a big fan of Jessica Clare/Jill Myles and her Games series is my absolute favourite. I love how it pokes fun at reality TV shows, usually with great characters, plenty of amusing moments and a fair bit of sex. Although this book takes on The Bachelor it’s a little different from the rest of the series – mainly because it’s all a big set-up by Heathcliff to get Juno back (that’s not a spoiler, since it’s in the first line of the book).
I didn’t like Heathcliff at first, and not just because I have a whole pile of Wuthering Heights issues. Juno is carrying a lot of baggage around from their split eight years before, so I was expecting him to be a horrible, arrogant jerk who was going to hurt her. Wow was I surprised. He’s completely the opposite, and by halfway I was starting to think Juno was the mean one. Heathcliff might be a billionaire, but he’s hopelessly in love with Juno and I was a little worried that he showed some stalker tendencies, but actually, he was trying to win Juno back in subtle little ways since she denied him more obvious avenues. It’s kind of cute, if completely not what I expected.
As for Juno. Hm. She was a tough nut to crack, being so angry, then less angry but determined there’d be no second chances, then getting jealous, then who-knew-what-was-going-on-in-her-head. She’s definitely not my favourite of this series. Heathcliff was so sweet and she, well, wasn’t. I like strong, independent heroines, but stubborn ones who give no quarter even when they might be partially to blame I have little patience for.
Thankfully, because this was a short read, she didn’t have enough time to annoy me completely and there is a sweetness to their romance, even if it’s lacking the heat of the rest of these books. One of my least favourite of the series so far, yet still highly readable with a strangely adorable hero, it’s a nice, easy read with some fun reality TV references. Can’t say it made me interested in the rest of the Invitation to Eden series, but I can’t wait for the next Games book.
I didn’t like Heathcliff at first, and not just because I have a whole pile of Wuthering Heights issues. Juno is carrying a lot of baggage around from their split eight years before, so I was expecting him to be a horrible, arrogant jerk who was going to hurt her. Wow was I surprised. He’s completely the opposite, and by halfway I was starting to think Juno was the mean one. Heathcliff might be a billionaire, but he’s hopelessly in love with Juno and I was a little worried that he showed some stalker tendencies, but actually, he was trying to win Juno back in subtle little ways since she denied him more obvious avenues. It’s kind of cute, if completely not what I expected.
As for Juno. Hm. She was a tough nut to crack, being so angry, then less angry but determined there’d be no second chances, then getting jealous, then who-knew-what-was-going-on-in-her-head. She’s definitely not my favourite of this series. Heathcliff was so sweet and she, well, wasn’t. I like strong, independent heroines, but stubborn ones who give no quarter even when they might be partially to blame I have little patience for.
Thankfully, because this was a short read, she didn’t have enough time to annoy me completely and there is a sweetness to their romance, even if it’s lacking the heat of the rest of these books. One of my least favourite of the series so far, yet still highly readable with a strangely adorable hero, it’s a nice, easy read with some fun reality TV references. Can’t say it made me interested in the rest of the Invitation to Eden series, but I can’t wait for the next Games book.
December 9, 2014
Pleasure Games is a short, sweet, second-chance romance. It warmed my heart and gave me a brief island vacation on a dreary winter day. As a fan of the Games series, I was interested to see what the author would do with the “reality” dating show set-up. While there were many things I liked about this novella, it’s not one my favorites in the series.
I enjoyed the premise behind “The Billionaire Bachelor” reality TV show. The setting was beautifully described and, to quote Liz Lemon, “I want to go to there.” I liked the glass-artisan heroine, her passion for her work, and how she saw inspiration pretty much everywhere. The billionaire bachelor was a little under-developed, but by the end seemed a worthy-enough hero.
I can’t quite put my finger on what this story was missing compared to the other stories in the Games series, but (for me) it was missing something. Perhaps it was because the characters had an established history and therefore there wasn’t a lot of relationship build-up? Maybe there were restrictions and requirements put in place by the publisher due to this being part of the Invitation to Eden series? The heat-level definitely seemed reduced in this one.
I really did enjoy the story while I was reading it. It’s just that when it ended, I had a slight feeling of disappointment with no clear reason for it. I give it 3.5 Sea-Stars.
I enjoyed the premise behind “The Billionaire Bachelor” reality TV show. The setting was beautifully described and, to quote Liz Lemon, “I want to go to there.” I liked the glass-artisan heroine, her passion for her work, and how she saw inspiration pretty much everywhere. The billionaire bachelor was a little under-developed, but by the end seemed a worthy-enough hero.
I can’t quite put my finger on what this story was missing compared to the other stories in the Games series, but (for me) it was missing something. Perhaps it was because the characters had an established history and therefore there wasn’t a lot of relationship build-up? Maybe there were restrictions and requirements put in place by the publisher due to this being part of the Invitation to Eden series? The heat-level definitely seemed reduced in this one.
I really did enjoy the story while I was reading it. It’s just that when it ended, I had a slight feeling of disappointment with no clear reason for it. I give it 3.5 Sea-Stars.
December 15, 2014
Juno and Heathcliff met and fell in love in college. Juno gets a chance to be an
apprentice to a very well known glass blower in California while Heathcliff has
to return home because of the death of his father. He wants her to go and she is
afraid she will never get the chance again to follow her art of she goes with him
so instead she tries to runaway and is caught by him and things end very ugly.
Eight years later neither have gotten over one another or the hurt from their
last day together. H rigs a bachelor show and wants Juno there because he wants
a second chance with her. Juno agrees to go on the show because each contestant
receives $50,000.00 for participating and she needs the money right now. So her
and her best friend sign up for the show and go to Eden. When she finds out who
the bachelor is she tries very hard to fight her attraction to him and saying she
doesn't do second chances. But as the show goes on she finds herself jealous of
the other women who are spending time with her H. She finally admits she wants him
and begin to talk and work things out. The island will not be happy til they are
together and what will happen to the show now that they are together?
apprentice to a very well known glass blower in California while Heathcliff has
to return home because of the death of his father. He wants her to go and she is
afraid she will never get the chance again to follow her art of she goes with him
so instead she tries to runaway and is caught by him and things end very ugly.
Eight years later neither have gotten over one another or the hurt from their
last day together. H rigs a bachelor show and wants Juno there because he wants
a second chance with her. Juno agrees to go on the show because each contestant
receives $50,000.00 for participating and she needs the money right now. So her
and her best friend sign up for the show and go to Eden. When she finds out who
the bachelor is she tries very hard to fight her attraction to him and saying she
doesn't do second chances. But as the show goes on she finds herself jealous of
the other women who are spending time with her H. She finally admits she wants him
and begin to talk and work things out. The island will not be happy til they are
together and what will happen to the show now that they are together?
February 14, 2015
short and sweet, a very cute addition to the Games collection.
I think one of the biggest challenges when writing a story like this one, where the characters have a history and obviously had a big falling out, is making the back story painful enough to understand why they haven't spoken in years, but without making you hate either character. In this case Jessica Clare wasn't quite successful because it really did make me hate Juno just a bit.
It was obvious from Heathcliff's asides what his intentions were, and I saw it coming that his time with Leona was actually more Juno re-con (though actually I thought he'd appeal to her more directly than just asking questions about Juno. i.e. confessing the plot and asking her to put in a good word for him).
I think one of the biggest challenges when writing a story like this one, where the characters have a history and obviously had a big falling out, is making the back story painful enough to understand why they haven't spoken in years, but without making you hate either character. In this case Jessica Clare wasn't quite successful because it really did make me hate Juno just a bit.
It was obvious from Heathcliff's asides what his intentions were, and I saw it coming that his time with Leona was actually more Juno re-con (though actually I thought he'd appeal to her more directly than just asking questions about Juno. i.e. confessing the plot and asking her to put in a good word for him).
May 19, 2016
In regard to Invitation to Eden, I didn't feel like this was really part of the series, which is the only reason I purchased this book. You didn't get any of the cast of characters or mystery/fantasy surrounding the island.
I was really disappointed with this story. The plot was boring; it was basically The Bachelor, including the catty contestants. I had been hoping they were pretending to have a show just to get Juno to Eden and her friend, Leona, was in on it. No such luck...we had to endure "the bachelor" dating and picking women throughout. I didn't like Juno once I learned what happened in college with Heathcliff. She started out strong, but her blaming him for the destruction of their relationship when it was mostly her doing had me shaking my head. She chose to leave and never responded to him when he reached out. Granted he could have hopped on a plane and found her in person if she were that important to him. Instead, he set up this elaborate hoax 8 years later to bring her to him.
I was really disappointed with this story. The plot was boring; it was basically The Bachelor, including the catty contestants. I had been hoping they were pretending to have a show just to get Juno to Eden and her friend, Leona, was in on it. No such luck...we had to endure "the bachelor" dating and picking women throughout. I didn't like Juno once I learned what happened in college with Heathcliff. She started out strong, but her blaming him for the destruction of their relationship when it was mostly her doing had me shaking my head. She chose to leave and never responded to him when he reached out. Granted he could have hopped on a plane and found her in person if she were that important to him. Instead, he set up this elaborate hoax 8 years later to bring her to him.
July 13, 2016
I was really disappointed with this story. The plot was boring; it was basically The Bachelor, including the catty contestants. I had been hoping they were pretending to have a show just to get Juno to Eden and her friend, Leona, was in on it. No such luck...we had to endure "the bachelor" dating and picking women throughout. I didn't like Juno once I learned what happened in college with Heathcliff. She started out strong, but her blaming him for the destruction of their relationship when it was mostly her doing had me shaking my head. She chose to leave and never responded to him when he reached out. Granted he could have hopped on a plane and found her in person if she were that important to him. Instead, he set up this elaborate hoax 8 years later to bring her to him.
In regard to Invitation to Eden, I didn't feel like this was really part of the series, which is the only reason I purchased this book. You didn't get any of the cast of characters or mystery/fantasy surrounding the island.
In regard to Invitation to Eden, I didn't feel like this was really part of the series, which is the only reason I purchased this book. You didn't get any of the cast of characters or mystery/fantasy surrounding the island.
December 29, 2014
I know the cover says novel, but the first page says A Games Novella. It's about 100 pages. This one is another reality TV Show - this time think The Bachelor. Juno is a broke glass artisan who's heart was broken 8 years ago by the love of her life, Heathcliff. Little does she know, Heathcliff goes to great extremes to get Juno back in his life, including starring in the reality show. Like many of the other heroines of the series, Juno does it for the money and isn't so pleasantly surprised with Heathcliff walks in. But the more time they spend together, the more she can't fight her feelings for her old flame.
Like I said, its about 100 pages and a pretty quick read. I've loved this entire series so I can't wait to see what's in store for 2015 with Partner Games.
Like I said, its about 100 pages and a pretty quick read. I've loved this entire series so I can't wait to see what's in store for 2015 with Partner Games.
June 22, 2016
This book was a HUGE disappointment to me. Clare's Games books have always been my go-to for fun and steamy reads, and Pleasure Games was a horrible novella. Basically, Heathcliff and Juno were together, then she wanted to be a glassblower and she dumped him, and Heathcliff stalked her and made up a game show (Bachelor style) and entice her onto it with money so he can pretty much win her back. Sorry for the long sentence, but that was it basically. It wasn't cute or steamy, it was creepy as hell to me. He went through a facade to win her back just cause he can blow his money and thinks he can do whatever the fuck he wants. It was well written, like all of Clare's books, but it wasn't what I was hoping it would be.
June 19, 2018
This is one of my favorite series, this was a great (short) addition to the series.
When money troubles cause Juno to apply, with her best friend to a game show, she has no idea the lengths this billionaire bachelor has gone to to find his one true love.
I love this series, but this story felt different than the other books. Not as much "game play" as the others. I know it's difficult with such a short format, but the romance felt a bit rushed. It all wrapped up to neatly and too quick. I would have liked to see a bit more after the show.
It also seems to twist two series into one, Jessica Clare's Games series and the new Invitation to Eden series.
I always look forward to the next one.
When money troubles cause Juno to apply, with her best friend to a game show, she has no idea the lengths this billionaire bachelor has gone to to find his one true love.
I love this series, but this story felt different than the other books. Not as much "game play" as the others. I know it's difficult with such a short format, but the romance felt a bit rushed. It all wrapped up to neatly and too quick. I would have liked to see a bit more after the show.
It also seems to twist two series into one, Jessica Clare's Games series and the new Invitation to Eden series.
I always look forward to the next one.
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