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Portwood Brothers #2
Playing by the Rules
Payton always had one rule she lived by, no boyfriends until after college. No one seemed to agree with her, even her own mother who had her at age sixteen. Returning to school after an accident that flipped Payton’s world upside down left her feeling out of control. Holding on to her rule seemed to be her only lifeline.
Josh had been letting the past rule his life for too long. Finally being at school, he’d become his own man, and he’d been putting all that behind him. Just when he thought he had it all put together, life got crazy. Not only did his ex show back up, but Josh also found he couldn’t get Payton Whitmore out of his head.
Once Josh convinces Payton to give him a shot, she’s so closed off that he wonders if it’s even worth it. Josh can tell there’s something special about Payton, though, and as soon as he goes all in, he’s ready to show her that some rules are made to be broken.
Josh had been letting the past rule his life for too long. Finally being at school, he’d become his own man, and he’d been putting all that behind him. Just when he thought he had it all put together, life got crazy. Not only did his ex show back up, but Josh also found he couldn’t get Payton Whitmore out of his head.
Once Josh convinces Payton to give him a shot, she’s so closed off that he wonders if it’s even worth it. Josh can tell there’s something special about Payton, though, and as soon as he goes all in, he’s ready to show her that some rules are made to be broken.
Paperback
First published August 25, 2015
142 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
Emily Robertson
15 books189 followersEmily Robertson’s creativity started early in life on stage. Now instead of theatre, she spends her time creating worlds on the page for others to enjoy. As an avid reader, she enjoys reading New Adult and Contemporary Romance as much as she does writing them. When her dog isn’t keeping her company in her office, she might be anywhere. She’s recently learned all about baseball when her son took up the sport, playing mom taxi for one of the many activities that’s going on, or binging on some reality TV show she can’t get enough of.
If you want to stay up to date with everything going on, make sure to check out her webpage or sign up for her newsletter.
If you want to stay up to date with everything going on, make sure to check out her webpage or sign up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 12, 2016
Payton Whitmore seems to be having a really bad day. She has a few insecurities that seem to add to her vulnerability which also affects her emotionally. Josh seems to be having a bad day as well. It’s interesting to watch these two skim around each other’s space before they truly come into contact with each other. The author makes Payton strong enough that she can feel comfortable enough around Josh that she finally has the courage to share some of herself with him. But she also shows the frustration that Josh feels as he tries to have a relationship with Payton.
Hailey is a good friend to her Payton and tries to help her get out of her comfort zone. She was a great way to move the story along. Having this in a college setting also helped because it showed some of the daily struggles these two had as they try to find a way to cope with both school and their personal lives.
Our author has given her readers a book that has a lot to it but that’s not a bad thing. This was certainly a great first book for this series. We have family issues that need to be dealt with and personal obstacles that seem to get in the way, trying to get through college life, have time with friends and have the beginnings of a relationship and where that will lead. I got the impression that Payton’s ending came with a little lesson – see if you think so too. It will be interesting to see how Ms. Robertson follows up with Jackson’s story. You do meet him here but there’s more to him than that. You get a little hint about his story if you read to the very end of this one.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Hailey is a good friend to her Payton and tries to help her get out of her comfort zone. She was a great way to move the story along. Having this in a college setting also helped because it showed some of the daily struggles these two had as they try to find a way to cope with both school and their personal lives.
Our author has given her readers a book that has a lot to it but that’s not a bad thing. This was certainly a great first book for this series. We have family issues that need to be dealt with and personal obstacles that seem to get in the way, trying to get through college life, have time with friends and have the beginnings of a relationship and where that will lead. I got the impression that Payton’s ending came with a little lesson – see if you think so too. It will be interesting to see how Ms. Robertson follows up with Jackson’s story. You do meet him here but there’s more to him than that. You get a little hint about his story if you read to the very end of this one.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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September 1, 2015
This is a 4 star read from me. It is a cute romance book. The story flows well too it doesn't lag at all. I was halfway through the book before I realized it. Payton is a product of a teenage pregnancy and saw how much her mom struggled her entire life. So she decided no boyfriend's until after school was completely over. And it worked for her until her junior year of college and she meets Josh and he breaks down her walls. But she's still hiding things from him. Josh has been leet in the past and and his x rule his life for way to long. And he's finally ready to get it together and be his own self. He meets Payton and she's so closed off that he doesn't know if she worth the challenge or not. But there is just something about her that he can't shake. With secrets and insecurities keep them apart other will everything come out and them work through it. This is the first book in this series and it doesn't end in a cliffhanger but it does leave you wanting more to the story asap. I would recommend this book. It is a quick cute read.
May 4, 2016
* Received a copy in exchange for an honest review that being said.
When I began this book it took me sometime to get into. It was slow at first but then all of a sudden it took off.
You will fall in love with Payton and Josh story. Payton never had a boyfriend before then she meets Josh and he isn't going to give up on her yet. With their past and obstacles in there way can they find a Happy ending.
When I began this book it took me sometime to get into. It was slow at first but then all of a sudden it took off.
You will fall in love with Payton and Josh story. Payton never had a boyfriend before then she meets Josh and he isn't going to give up on her yet. With their past and obstacles in there way can they find a Happy ending.
August 13, 2017
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review - Naomi / Scandalous Book Blog***
I loved the whole feel of this book. Somewhere along the way I felt like I, the reader became part of their world. Emily's writing is compelling and brings endless hours of fun.
Payton and Josh are 2 great characters on their own, however when they come together they are electrifying.
College life is never easy and with the insecurities they both hold finding there way is a bumpy road.
Payton is really having a rough time at the minute. After an accident that left her with a head injury that she is still dealing with on a daily basis, her mother is still in a coma and things are not looking good. Going back to college, filled her with a sense of guilt but her grandparents are holding things together at home and are adamant that this is what her mother would want. The last thing she needs is a distraction.
Josh hasn't had the best of luck with his past girlfriends, never knowing if they were with him for him or simply because they couldn't have his twin brother. And then there was Ella, the Ex that he would have jumped at the chance to have back but after seeing her with another guy and the feelings another girl evoked in him he knew he must let her go once and for all. From the first moment Josh set eyes on Payton, sparks flew. He couldn't put his finger on what it was about this girl but he knew he had to see her again and have her in his life.
When Josh makes his move, Payton is quick to dismiss him but he wont give up. Finally getting her to agree to 1 date...He is HOOKED and it soon becomes very evident that he isnt the only one. But are they destined to be together???
This couple are built up of so many layers, their path is not an easy one and the twists and turns in their story will have you on the edge of your seat.
Payton was a girl who I completely felt for, her past has very much molded her into the young woman she has become. Not wanting to follow in her mothers footsteps, she HAD a life plan. Then with the accident and Josh, everything she ever believed comes into question. Now she has to figure out what path to take to really live her dream.
I loved Josh from the very beginning, Passionate and real are 2 words I would use to describe him. Every girl deserves a man like him.
This book definitely deserves a place on everyone's kindle!!!!
I loved the whole feel of this book. Somewhere along the way I felt like I, the reader became part of their world. Emily's writing is compelling and brings endless hours of fun.
Payton and Josh are 2 great characters on their own, however when they come together they are electrifying.
College life is never easy and with the insecurities they both hold finding there way is a bumpy road.
Payton is really having a rough time at the minute. After an accident that left her with a head injury that she is still dealing with on a daily basis, her mother is still in a coma and things are not looking good. Going back to college, filled her with a sense of guilt but her grandparents are holding things together at home and are adamant that this is what her mother would want. The last thing she needs is a distraction.
Josh hasn't had the best of luck with his past girlfriends, never knowing if they were with him for him or simply because they couldn't have his twin brother. And then there was Ella, the Ex that he would have jumped at the chance to have back but after seeing her with another guy and the feelings another girl evoked in him he knew he must let her go once and for all. From the first moment Josh set eyes on Payton, sparks flew. He couldn't put his finger on what it was about this girl but he knew he had to see her again and have her in his life.
When Josh makes his move, Payton is quick to dismiss him but he wont give up. Finally getting her to agree to 1 date...He is HOOKED and it soon becomes very evident that he isnt the only one. But are they destined to be together???
This couple are built up of so many layers, their path is not an easy one and the twists and turns in their story will have you on the edge of your seat.
Payton was a girl who I completely felt for, her past has very much molded her into the young woman she has become. Not wanting to follow in her mothers footsteps, she HAD a life plan. Then with the accident and Josh, everything she ever believed comes into question. Now she has to figure out what path to take to really live her dream.
I loved Josh from the very beginning, Passionate and real are 2 words I would use to describe him. Every girl deserves a man like him.
This book definitely deserves a place on everyone's kindle!!!!
November 6, 2017
The portwood Brothers are something else. This books can be read as stand alones, but honestly? You'll want to meet the whole family.
Josh is a really good guy. He's trying to get over his horrible ex when he meets Payton. He likes her instantly and starts trying to get her to go out with him.
Payton has rules. Lots of them. She has no time for dating until after college, that way she won't end up as her mom pregnant at a young age.
Payton is quite the character. After a car accident she has memory issues and constant headaches. That's something that adds to the story but that I felt ultimately lead nowhere. Actually I feel like half her health issues didn't lead to anything or had no point in the story. It has nothing to add to their relationshi. The rules do, even when Payton family never treats her like she ruined her mother's life she feels like a burden in a way and that's what holds her back.
I did want to shacke some sense into her a lot of the times. I was wondering along with Josh if all the effort was worth it at the end.
Josh made affort after effort to get Payton to trust him and open up to him. I loved how determined he was in making it work but I felt for him everytime Payton blocked him.
Hilary, Payton best friend is great! She's really supportive not only to her but to Josh and I don't thing the book would've been the same without her. Josh's brother, Jackson, makes an appearance and I loved reading about them and how they got closer after the book.
The author wrote a really compelling love story full of ups and downs. Josh and Payton's relationship has a rocky start but they really work together. He's carefree and a risk taker where Payton is controled and organized.
Playing by The Rules is a great love story. And I can't wait to read all about Josh brother.
Josh is a really good guy. He's trying to get over his horrible ex when he meets Payton. He likes her instantly and starts trying to get her to go out with him.
Payton has rules. Lots of them. She has no time for dating until after college, that way she won't end up as her mom pregnant at a young age.
Payton is quite the character. After a car accident she has memory issues and constant headaches. That's something that adds to the story but that I felt ultimately lead nowhere. Actually I feel like half her health issues didn't lead to anything or had no point in the story. It has nothing to add to their relationshi. The rules do, even when Payton family never treats her like she ruined her mother's life she feels like a burden in a way and that's what holds her back.
I did want to shacke some sense into her a lot of the times. I was wondering along with Josh if all the effort was worth it at the end.
Josh made affort after effort to get Payton to trust him and open up to him. I loved how determined he was in making it work but I felt for him everytime Payton blocked him.
Hilary, Payton best friend is great! She's really supportive not only to her but to Josh and I don't thing the book would've been the same without her. Josh's brother, Jackson, makes an appearance and I loved reading about them and how they got closer after the book.
The author wrote a really compelling love story full of ups and downs. Josh and Payton's relationship has a rocky start but they really work together. He's carefree and a risk taker where Payton is controled and organized.
Playing by The Rules is a great love story. And I can't wait to read all about Josh brother.
August 13, 2017
I am so blown away with Playing by the Rules! Emily Robertson has created this amazing cast of characters that makes me want to go back to college and be friends with all of them. I am literally begging for more.
I am a huge lover of college romance stories and this is one of my favorites. I immediately fell into this story and felt a connection with Payton as she struggled with returning to her junior year of college after suffering from a rather painful summer. I wanted to be that best-friend for her, to give her a hug and tell her that everything was going to be okay. And when she decided to give in and give Josh a chance, I found myself pulling for them so hard.
Josh, though he'd had his own ups and downs with a previous relationship, was just the ideal guy for Payton. He's the kind of guy that you want your daughter to fall in love with. I even liked the little bit of jealousy he had because it made his character not the least bit boring--it made him human and it showed just how much he cared for Payton. But he was genuine and his heart was definitely in the right place.
There was just so much that I loved about this book--from Hailey to Wes, Geoff, Darin, and even Jackson (Josh's twin). I could feel the emotions building though, and I knew that something big was going to happen at the end.
If you're looking for a sweet, college romance that deals with some emotional situations, then this is definitely one that you'll want to read.
I am a huge lover of college romance stories and this is one of my favorites. I immediately fell into this story and felt a connection with Payton as she struggled with returning to her junior year of college after suffering from a rather painful summer. I wanted to be that best-friend for her, to give her a hug and tell her that everything was going to be okay. And when she decided to give in and give Josh a chance, I found myself pulling for them so hard.
Josh, though he'd had his own ups and downs with a previous relationship, was just the ideal guy for Payton. He's the kind of guy that you want your daughter to fall in love with. I even liked the little bit of jealousy he had because it made his character not the least bit boring--it made him human and it showed just how much he cared for Payton. But he was genuine and his heart was definitely in the right place.
There was just so much that I loved about this book--from Hailey to Wes, Geoff, Darin, and even Jackson (Josh's twin). I could feel the emotions building though, and I knew that something big was going to happen at the end.
If you're looking for a sweet, college romance that deals with some emotional situations, then this is definitely one that you'll want to read.
August 13, 2017
Book 2 in the series . Contemporary Romance . Hero is Josh . Heroine is Payton .
Josh and Payton go to the same school .
Payton mom is in a coma from a car accident. Payton blames her self for the coma . But Payton didn't get off Scott free either . Payton has wicked headaches, her memory comes and goes . Payton needs to talk to the dean at school and that is where she meets Josh.
Josh wonders who she is and why was her time with the dean more important than his . But Josh likes the look of Payton. John wonders why he never saw her ... little did Payton and Josh know they have lots of friends in common.
One thing after another Josh and Payton are dating. Payton tells Josh that her mom is in a come and Payton never knew her dad .
On a side note Josh brother is Bryce, who you meet in book 1. Josh also has another brother, a twin , who is at West Point. Payton meets the family at Thanksgiving when John takes her to his home . Josh twin , Jackson kisses Payton . When he tells Josh , Jackson says the kiss was a mistake.
Grab it and see does the mom wake from her coma . Does Payton finally meet her dad . Do Josh and Payton get married. Grab it and you'll be surprised by the answers
Josh and Payton go to the same school .
Payton mom is in a coma from a car accident. Payton blames her self for the coma . But Payton didn't get off Scott free either . Payton has wicked headaches, her memory comes and goes . Payton needs to talk to the dean at school and that is where she meets Josh.
Josh wonders who she is and why was her time with the dean more important than his . But Josh likes the look of Payton. John wonders why he never saw her ... little did Payton and Josh know they have lots of friends in common.
One thing after another Josh and Payton are dating. Payton tells Josh that her mom is in a come and Payton never knew her dad .
On a side note Josh brother is Bryce, who you meet in book 1. Josh also has another brother, a twin , who is at West Point. Payton meets the family at Thanksgiving when John takes her to his home . Josh twin , Jackson kisses Payton . When he tells Josh , Jackson says the kiss was a mistake.
Grab it and see does the mom wake from her coma . Does Payton finally meet her dad . Do Josh and Payton get married. Grab it and you'll be surprised by the answers
August 2, 2017
The more books I read by Emily Robertson, the more I begin to love her writing style. She really pulls you into the story and makes you feel what each character is feeling. Then she throws in a few twists and turns just to keep us on our toes. Nicely done, Ms Emily.
Payton - girl you were so uptight when this story started. But we loved and rooted for you anyway. And as we watched you grow and come into your womanhood, we just loved you more.
And Josh - I loved you from page one. The way you overcame your hurt from the past and showed Payton what love really is, be still my heart! And don't worry, one day you will get what you want in the end.
Still waiting for my favorite brother's story but Josh's story gave me a good enough fix to last until then. Grab your copy now!
Payton - girl you were so uptight when this story started. But we loved and rooted for you anyway. And as we watched you grow and come into your womanhood, we just loved you more.
And Josh - I loved you from page one. The way you overcame your hurt from the past and showed Payton what love really is, be still my heart! And don't worry, one day you will get what you want in the end.
Still waiting for my favorite brother's story but Josh's story gave me a good enough fix to last until then. Grab your copy now!
September 8, 2020
3.5 stars
Payton has baggage, that results in rules. Not that rules are a bad thing, just a rigid life leaves no room for being a young adult. Not wanting to make her mother's mistake, dating is off the table. Life has other plans for Payton, an accident over the summer leaves her with medical issues, guilt, and distractions. Her insecurities and need for control, play into her decisions. Josh is one of her distractions, he has his own set of baggage due to an ex. He knows that Payton is not like her and is special enough to be patient.
The story is about young love and the complications of past actions creating obstacles to today’s decisions. There is a lot going on, and most are tied up by the end, but this is a series so…….
Payton has baggage, that results in rules. Not that rules are a bad thing, just a rigid life leaves no room for being a young adult. Not wanting to make her mother's mistake, dating is off the table. Life has other plans for Payton, an accident over the summer leaves her with medical issues, guilt, and distractions. Her insecurities and need for control, play into her decisions. Josh is one of her distractions, he has his own set of baggage due to an ex. He knows that Payton is not like her and is special enough to be patient.
The story is about young love and the complications of past actions creating obstacles to today’s decisions. There is a lot going on, and most are tied up by the end, but this is a series so…….
February 26, 2018
Meh.
I read this book based on all the high ratings it’s received, but unfortunately I didn’t particularly enjoy it. It wasn’t a bad book, the writing and the characters were okay. I just didn’t really care for the heroine and I don’t know why the hero (and his twin) were so into her. It seemed like Josh was only so into her because she was hard to get, and Jax maybe because she’s off limits. The characters were quite immature IMO, but I think they are around 19-21yrs old, so I guess it’s appropriate for their age. I found it hard to finish the book because I wasn’t invested in it. Would not recommend to my friends.
I read this book based on all the high ratings it’s received, but unfortunately I didn’t particularly enjoy it. It wasn’t a bad book, the writing and the characters were okay. I just didn’t really care for the heroine and I don’t know why the hero (and his twin) were so into her. It seemed like Josh was only so into her because she was hard to get, and Jax maybe because she’s off limits. The characters were quite immature IMO, but I think they are around 19-21yrs old, so I guess it’s appropriate for their age. I found it hard to finish the book because I wasn’t invested in it. Would not recommend to my friends.
May 2, 2021
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I really enjoyed this book - and best of all I was lucky enough to get it as a free download from Amazon!
I thought that the book was great, it had a really well developed storyline with some excellent characters that were strong on personality, they worked really well together and had some great interaction.
It was a story of bravery, hesitation, it was romantic and trusting - A great way to pass a few hours!!
It is 5 stars from me for this one, very well written and a really enjoyable plot - I loved it!
I really enjoyed this book - and best of all I was lucky enough to get it as a free download from Amazon!
I thought that the book was great, it had a really well developed storyline with some excellent characters that were strong on personality, they worked really well together and had some great interaction.
It was a story of bravery, hesitation, it was romantic and trusting - A great way to pass a few hours!!
It is 5 stars from me for this one, very well written and a really enjoyable plot - I loved it!
July 23, 2017
I recieved a voluntary copy of this book! Wow the cover of this book I love it and from the first page to the blurb I'm hooked! Wow this story had me glued I didn't want to put it down I really loved Payton and Josh chemistry!!! She got in a bad wreck and her mama too The only thing is her mama is on life support and she survived! Payton pushes Josh away a lot but will she finally let her walls down some what? I loved how we see Addison and Bryce engaged and still together!!! Loved this story!! Can't wait to hear jacksons story he was interesting!!
August 3, 2017
Reviewed for SNS
This book was very intense and emotional. Payton hasn’t been the same since the accident and things are spiraling out of control. When she meets Josh, she dismisses him but soon finds that she cannot get him out of her head. She agrees to one dinner but that turns into so much more. Her family, his family, and a lot of raw and very vivid emotions are present. Josh only wants her to be free of her nightmares and stay with him. Can he hold onto her or will she push him away for good? Excellent writing.
This book was very intense and emotional. Payton hasn’t been the same since the accident and things are spiraling out of control. When she meets Josh, she dismisses him but soon finds that she cannot get him out of her head. She agrees to one dinner but that turns into so much more. Her family, his family, and a lot of raw and very vivid emotions are present. Josh only wants her to be free of her nightmares and stay with him. Can he hold onto her or will she push him away for good? Excellent writing.
August 20, 2017
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.66
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Payton Whitmore has been set to not repeat her mother's mistakes and she is determined to not have any relationship until after college and when she can devote the time they need. Unfortunately Josh Portwood didn't get the memo and he will do anything to capture Payton's attention. Josh is out from under his twin's shadow for the first time or so he thought. Things in Josh and Payton's lives get more chaotic as the world around them get out of control. Can Payton make the choice of playing by her rules and lose her chance with Josh or will she finally start to live again?
This is second book in this series and I absolutely loved it. Payton is a very damaged soul, she has guilt over her accident and what happened. She struggles to keep it all together with everything she is facing. Josh is another person with a past that tortures him. He wants to be free of his past and the pain that is there. Together Josh and Payton come together beautifully. I loved their story but I know it isn't over yet. They have their Happily For Now but I see storm clouds on the horizon and I can't wait to read more about them in Playing With Fire. Great book with amazing characters and a story you don't want to stop reading. Highly Recommended!!!
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This book was very intense and emotional. Payton hasn’t been the same since the accident and things are spiraling out of control. When she meets Josh, she dismisses him but soon finds that she cannot get him out of her head. She agrees to one dinner but that turns into so much more. Her family, his family, and a lot of raw and very vivid emotions are present. Josh only wants her to be free of her nightmares and stay with him. Can he hold onto her or will she push him away for good? Excellent writing
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~~
The second book in a great series, this book is fantastic! I'm excited to see what comes next! CLIFFHANGERS ARE EVIL!
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Payton Whitmore has been set to not repeat her mother's mistakes and she is determined to not have any relationship until after college and when she can devote the time they need. Unfortunately Josh Portwood didn't get the memo and he will do anything to capture Payton's attention. Josh is out from under his twin's shadow for the first time or so he thought. Things in Josh and Payton's lives get more chaotic as the world around them get out of control. Can Payton make the choice of playing by her rules and lose her chance with Josh or will she finally start to live again?
This is second book in this series and I absolutely loved it. Payton is a very damaged soul, she has guilt over her accident and what happened. She struggles to keep it all together with everything she is facing. Josh is another person with a past that tortures him. He wants to be free of his past and the pain that is there. Together Josh and Payton come together beautifully. I loved their story but I know it isn't over yet. They have their Happily For Now but I see storm clouds on the horizon and I can't wait to read more about them in Playing With Fire. Great book with amazing characters and a story you don't want to stop reading. Highly Recommended!!!
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This book was very intense and emotional. Payton hasn’t been the same since the accident and things are spiraling out of control. When she meets Josh, she dismisses him but soon finds that she cannot get him out of her head. She agrees to one dinner but that turns into so much more. Her family, his family, and a lot of raw and very vivid emotions are present. Josh only wants her to be free of her nightmares and stay with him. Can he hold onto her or will she push him away for good? Excellent writing
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~~
The second book in a great series, this book is fantastic! I'm excited to see what comes next! CLIFFHANGERS ARE EVIL!
January 5, 2021
The great debut novel by Emily Robertson with wonderful characters. Payton Whitmore is committed to completing her college degree without any distractions, specifically boys. Josh Portwood lives life to the fullest every day of college. When these characters meet it's easy to see that they're meant for each other.
Payton and Josh's love story is emotional and powerful. This book is well written and I loved every second of it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Payton and Josh's love story is emotional and powerful. This book is well written and I loved every second of it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2022
Intriguing and emotional read.
There was a lot going on in this book. I was really drawn to the cast of characters, and immersed in the long and involved journey of Payton and Josh. Their road is so difficult, that at times it was difficult to feel any joy in their connection, and I wondered what is was all about. However I am intrigued to read further into the series and am hoping to ultimately get more of a happy ending for Payton and Josh.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There was a lot going on in this book. I was really drawn to the cast of characters, and immersed in the long and involved journey of Payton and Josh. Their road is so difficult, that at times it was difficult to feel any joy in their connection, and I wondered what is was all about. However I am intrigued to read further into the series and am hoping to ultimately get more of a happy ending for Payton and Josh.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2018
Emily Robertson writes great relationship stories. She has you invested in the characters and gives them many layers to peel away. Josh and Payton each have their baggage and it is interesting to see how they each came to deal with them and still come together. Payton's story is so sad and heart-wrenching. Their friends and family were written with such realism. I can't wait to read the next installment with Josh's twin Jackson. I received this book as an ARC.
September 10, 2020
Another great novel by Emily Robertson,. I am really enjoying the Portwood Brothers series and can’t wait for the third book. So far, the books cover such a wide range of emotions and real-life type issues, tempered with love, romance and steamy hot scenes. A definite fantastic addition to my library.
I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a fair and honest review.
I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a fair and honest review.
February 1, 2021
Good read for sure!
This was my first read from this author so I had no clue what to expect. I was very pleasantly surprised and read the book in one sitting. I immediately liked Josh and his friends but it took a while to get into Payton. I understood her issues but couldn’t see why they made her so hot and cold all the time. In the end it was a great read but I am bummed about the ending. Now I need to start book 2 to make the feeling go away!
Pippa, My Secret Book Spot
This was my first read from this author so I had no clue what to expect. I was very pleasantly surprised and read the book in one sitting. I immediately liked Josh and his friends but it took a while to get into Payton. I understood her issues but couldn’t see why they made her so hot and cold all the time. In the end it was a great read but I am bummed about the ending. Now I need to start book 2 to make the feeling go away!
Pippa, My Secret Book Spot
June 8, 2017
Amazing! The book was well written with indepth character development and engaging plot. I felt a lot of emotions reading this from happiness to anger to frustration, but overall I felt hopeful. Payton went through many struggles throughout the book and it takes a lot of patience and determination that Josh had to help her through it. It's a wonderful read.
June 15, 2017
Emily Robertson's "Playing by the Rules" is a cute, sweet romance with a lot of character. As I was reading, I felt like I was watching friends from afar and feeling for them and rooting for them. I was able to relate to both main characters on some level, and that plus the great writing kept me engaged throughout the book. Emily Robertson has a lot to be proud of for her debut novel.
September 18, 2020
I liked the premise and the author delivered. in my opinion. It was an interesting story that I found engaging. The things that we are exposed to as we age change our views and craft our thoughts. They also create our fears. The author cleverly used this to write a story that I found realistic and believable. I liked reading this book.
October 14, 2017
After reading Playing it Cool I wanted to know more about the dynamic band of brothers that are the Portwoods. This book did not disappoint. The storyline with all its drama made turning the pages ever so easy
September 11, 2020
A good story, although I would have loved it even more if it was written in the first point of view, this is a deal breaker for me, so only 4 stars from me.
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.
September 12, 2020
I loved everything about it - the characters, the plot, the emotion, the writing!
The author had a unique way of telling the story that had me wanting this book to go on and on.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
The author had a unique way of telling the story that had me wanting this book to go on and on.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
May 18, 2023
Great story
I enjoyed reading the story. It had several twists and turns with an uncertain ending left for the reader's imagination. The descriptive sex scenes near the story end limits my recommendation for the young adult reader
I enjoyed reading the story. It had several twists and turns with an uncertain ending left for the reader's imagination. The descriptive sex scenes near the story end limits my recommendation for the young adult reader
August 10, 2017
Oh my!!! This book was amazing. It had me wanting more. It's well written and you will love Payton. I know I did.
August 30, 2020
Love this book. It is easy to read and well written. Love the characters Can not wait for the next one in this series.
September 6, 2020
I like payton but sometimes she gets on my nerves. I like how Josh is with her. It was a good book to read. Can't wait to read about jax.
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