Play Hard

Make the Play #2

by Amber Garza

I work hard. I study hard. I play hard.

I’ve always wanted to pitch in the major leagues, and I’ve spent my entire life pursuing it with singular focus. I’m one season away from graduation, from leaving to play college ball, and one step closer to living my dream. But then one kiss – a single kiss – changes everything. It’s a kiss I don’t want. A kiss I don’t expect. From a girl I barely know.

Taylor Kinney is edgy. Tough. But I see her in a moment of weakness, feel her desperation and need when her lips touch mine. It’s the kind of kiss that turns the world on its axis, the kind of kiss that overshadows every kiss prior to it. And it’s the kind of kiss that has the potential to throw all my plans out the window. Because all I want to do is protect her, keep her safe. Even if it means putting myself in danger. Even though she repeatedly pushes me away.

I play hard in school, I play hard in baseball, and I play hard in life. And I plan to play hard for her. No matter the cost.

Genres: Romance, Sports, Baseball, Young Adult, Contemporary, New Adult, Sports Romance

355 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 31, 2015

About the author

Amber Garza has had a passion for the written word since she was a child making books out of notebook paper and staples. Her hobbies include reading and singing. Coffee and wine are her drinks of choice (not necessarily in that order). She writes while blaring music, and talks about her characters like they're real people. She lives with her husband and two kids in Folsom, California, which is also home to another Amber Garza.

Reviews

[Mary McFarlane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this was a lot better then the 1st book, don't get me wrong I liked the first book but it was like every other best friend little sister love story book. Cal's story just pulled me in and I was thinking something else was Taylor's problem all along. I'm excited to read Hayes's story next however!

[Sarah Davey · Rating 4 out of 5]

young, stupid mistakes, and pregnancy..... doesnt mean your life if ruined loved this

[Ava Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5*

Liked the characters more than the first book, however I don't care as much for characters being together after seconds of knowing each other. I would've preferred more development.

[Rebecca Arbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great emotional read!

So Taylor is 16 and moves to a new town to live with her aunt & uncle. While before she had friends and a boyfriend now she doesn't have anyone really. So when the star pitcher of the high school baseball team takes notice in her she has no choice but to let him no matter how hard she pushes him away.

Cal is the star pitcher of the Prairie Creek baseball team. He could have any girl he wants but instead goes after the new shy, quiet girl. What he doesn't expect is for her to have a big life changing secret.

Great read that makes you feel so many emotions! But you can't help but fall in love with Cal and Taylor. Yeah by the time you get through your wishing things would have turned out a little differently but this is still a great book and a great series!!

[Jen Zingaro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series. I loved the first one so much that I was nervous when I started this one. But honestly, I think I might have liked it more and that shocked me. As I am finding out with Amber's books, there are twists in all of her books and this is no different. This book is about Emmy's brother Cal and the new girl that comes to school, Taylor. Taylor has a big secret. They are from different worlds but have undeniable chemistry. Again, the characters are so well written. Plus you get to see a continuation of Emmy and Chris's relationship from the first book.

[Angie McGuire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always so amazing

I love Amber's stories. They are heartfelt and warm and loving. She gives HS love such promise. I know it's crazy to assume that "love" like that will last , but these stories and all of her series makes you believe and have hope.

Cal is the notorious HS jock, but not in a callous way...and he brings Taylor out of her shell, and gives her someone to lean on when she needs it most. I have to say I saw the plot arise from a mile away, but it was still great!!! Can't wait to read the next one!! Bring on Hayes.

[Amy Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

After Reading Play Safe I was afraid it might take me a minute to get into this book also, but I was so wrong. I couldn't put it down. The concept is kinda different to believe that a boy, a senior in high school could be so understanding about Taylor's situation, but I guess the point is if you find the one you find the one and for Cal that was Taylor. I think I like him more than Christian now :) Awe young love!

[Mel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprisingly amazing

Okay can I say that I loved it? I mean the books is so sweet. I really liked the subject of the book. I fell in love with each and every character of the story. I loved Cal, he's a great guy, sweet, strong, loveable, amazing, protective, etc. And Taylor is so strong, brave and selfless. The decisions she had to do where so hard, but I loved that she did the correct one. You need to read this book. Better yet, read the series. It's amazing.

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was pretty awesome.

I already loved Cal from the first book. Taylor was a great addition to the town. Yes her circumstances are predictable, but the whole situation wasn't. The interactions between her family, the instances of her pasts resurgence, the very real situation she found herself in...it was a beautiful story, beautifully written, about such a difficult topic. Read it!!!

[Nancy McQuaide · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!! Great story!!!

[Tracy C]

DNF

[Ashley Villarreal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woooow!

She did it again! Amazing love story! Loved hearing Cal's story! Taylor was such a strong person to do what she did! Can't wait for the next book!

[Anna Doe]

2,5 stars