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Playing Games #1
Nobody's Obligation
Ava Jacobs is a shy accountant by day, aspiring romance writer by night—and her first novel just got published…
Romance isn’t a big component of Ava’s life. That is, her real life. As the monotonous nature of crunching numbers and drawn-out board meetings slowly eats away at her, the only bright side to her otherwise mundane routine lies on the black and white pages of her debut romance novel. Her inspiration? A long-time infatuation—Tyler Andrews.
Until the Olympic swimmer read her novel and connected the dots…
Tyler Andrews is used to being the center of attention. But when his sister throws a romance novel in his lap, he’s surprised to be the inspiration for the hot, hunky hero. He has no idea who Ava Jacobs is, but he’s not at all happy with her using his likeness to spice up her steamy scenes. When he finally tracks her down, it’s her likeness that intrigues him.
It takes just one romantic dance at a company banquet to spark disaster…
When Tyler’s manager arranges a daring publicity stunt and offers him as an auction item at Ava’s fundraising banquet, the bids come in quick and hot. Little did Ava expect the winner, a work colleague, to donate Tyler as Ava’s date. With all eyes on the Olympic athlete, Ava can’t refuse a romantic dance. But even though Tyler was the inspiration for Ava’s steamy novel, she refuses to accept his attention if it’s not real.
Will Tyler lose the one woman who caught his interest? Or will Ava push him away in an effort to prove she’s…
Nobody’s obligation.
Romance isn’t a big component of Ava’s life. That is, her real life. As the monotonous nature of crunching numbers and drawn-out board meetings slowly eats away at her, the only bright side to her otherwise mundane routine lies on the black and white pages of her debut romance novel. Her inspiration? A long-time infatuation—Tyler Andrews.
Until the Olympic swimmer read her novel and connected the dots…
Tyler Andrews is used to being the center of attention. But when his sister throws a romance novel in his lap, he’s surprised to be the inspiration for the hot, hunky hero. He has no idea who Ava Jacobs is, but he’s not at all happy with her using his likeness to spice up her steamy scenes. When he finally tracks her down, it’s her likeness that intrigues him.
It takes just one romantic dance at a company banquet to spark disaster…
When Tyler’s manager arranges a daring publicity stunt and offers him as an auction item at Ava’s fundraising banquet, the bids come in quick and hot. Little did Ava expect the winner, a work colleague, to donate Tyler as Ava’s date. With all eyes on the Olympic athlete, Ava can’t refuse a romantic dance. But even though Tyler was the inspiration for Ava’s steamy novel, she refuses to accept his attention if it’s not real.
Will Tyler lose the one woman who caught his interest? Or will Ava push him away in an effort to prove she’s…
Nobody’s obligation.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2015
1461 people are currently reading
2031 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Barber
17 books308 followersRebecca lives in Australia's capital surrounded by bushland and kangaroos.
When she's not writing about small town romance or sexy athletes she's watching football with her husband, snuggling up with their dog or indulging in some very yummy chocolates.
When she's not writing about small town romance or sexy athletes she's watching football with her husband, snuggling up with their dog or indulging in some very yummy chocolates.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 782 reviews
July 25, 2022
Lots of unanswered questions
I liked this book very much. Even after reading it, I am still confused about one very important thing. I still don't know why he asked for the divorce. It was never explained at all. I mean there was a blah blah blah answer but it didn't make sense. I just didn't get it. The whole trip to Africa thing was odd. Everything was just off. I didn't understand anything but I do believe this; they loved each other. I loved her Mother and thought she was a hoot. I really loved her attitude too. I am glad Drew loved her so much but he was sending mixed signals. She was a little neurotic but aren't we all. It was a good story but I just had several questions at the end and I was like great but wait kind of feeling. I will read this author again. It definitely held my interest. No triggers really at all. Just a bunch of soul searching and miscommunication. What's that called? Yeah, Marriage.
I liked this book very much. Even after reading it, I am still confused about one very important thing. I still don't know why he asked for the divorce. It was never explained at all. I mean there was a blah blah blah answer but it didn't make sense. I just didn't get it. The whole trip to Africa thing was odd. Everything was just off. I didn't understand anything but I do believe this; they loved each other. I loved her Mother and thought she was a hoot. I really loved her attitude too. I am glad Drew loved her so much but he was sending mixed signals. She was a little neurotic but aren't we all. It was a good story but I just had several questions at the end and I was like great but wait kind of feeling. I will read this author again. It definitely held my interest. No triggers really at all. Just a bunch of soul searching and miscommunication. What's that called? Yeah, Marriage.
Read
May 3, 2023I DNF-ed as soon as I read the heroine was celibate while the hero certainly got his 🙄
The problem is, I love the idea of second-chance romance…but it very rarely works out. Why couldn’t the heroine have had other partners, too? 🤷🏻♀️
The problem is, I love the idea of second-chance romance…but it very rarely works out. Why couldn’t the heroine have had other partners, too? 🤷🏻♀️
October 19, 2019
Shattered Dreams - Rebecca Barber
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Shattered Dreams is a true departure from the stories we’re used to from Rebecca Barber but no less brilliant.
Maggie and Drew have a wonderful life together until their world starts to unravel. They each have such a difficult emotional journey in this story but it’s definitely Maggie who struggles the most with her present and their future together.
So much angst but a very touching and honest story that will strike a chord with many people. A triumph of the spirit for these beautifully crafted characters and their heart wrenching story.
A huge definite recommendation for this work.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Shattered Dreams is a true departure from the stories we’re used to from Rebecca Barber but no less brilliant.
Maggie and Drew have a wonderful life together until their world starts to unravel. They each have such a difficult emotional journey in this story but it’s definitely Maggie who struggles the most with her present and their future together.
So much angst but a very touching and honest story that will strike a chord with many people. A triumph of the spirit for these beautifully crafted characters and their heart wrenching story.
A huge definite recommendation for this work.
March 19, 2020
Feels 0
Steam 4
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Reviewed by Robin
I have never read Rebecca Barber so I thought I'd give Marked a try since I like to read authors that I've never read. For some reason, I did have a hard time immersing myself into the story. Tasha and Logan didn't seem to mesh well for me. Logan is your typical bad boy in football. Tasha is a feisty heroine and didn't take anything from Logan without dishing it back. I liked the book ok but it just took me a while to get into the characters and where the story was going. If you like sports romance, you may find yourself falling in love with Logan and Tasha. You definitely will learn a lot about Australian football.
Steam 4
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Reviewed by Robin
I have never read Rebecca Barber so I thought I'd give Marked a try since I like to read authors that I've never read. For some reason, I did have a hard time immersing myself into the story. Tasha and Logan didn't seem to mesh well for me. Logan is your typical bad boy in football. Tasha is a feisty heroine and didn't take anything from Logan without dishing it back. I liked the book ok but it just took me a while to get into the characters and where the story was going. If you like sports romance, you may find yourself falling in love with Logan and Tasha. You definitely will learn a lot about Australian football.
April 17, 2018
This book put me through the wringer. Heartbreakingly bringing something so many face right to the forefront. I applaud the author for doing this. We need more people to stand up against bullying, especially now when you can no longer escape it in your own home with social media. So why the two stars? Ok, this part is hard.
I hate when I can’t rate a book higher. I know how much heart and soul an author puts into each and every book. The reason I can’t rate this book higher despite the wonderful writing and heartfelt story may even seem small to some people, but to me it’s not. See, this book about how hard Holly worked to overcome the horrific bullying she endured contained something perhaps even the author doesn’t realize is hypocritical.
The regular use of slurs against disabled people. I know, I know. You may not even realize how offensive these little words are but to anyone who’s ever loved someone with a disability words like the R word and the same word replaced with an F in the beginning are heartbreaking. I don’t think for one moment this author intended to use these words so casually as an insult against people with disabilities, but it doesn’t take away the fact that’s exactly what they are. I’m stepping down off my soapbox now and going back to my regularly scheduled positive self.
**EDITED TO CLARIFY**
I am referring to the use of these words by the main character & her family and friends. I am not referring to these words being used in the acts of bullying against Holly, truthfully the ONLY characters who did not use these words were the bullies.
I hate when I can’t rate a book higher. I know how much heart and soul an author puts into each and every book. The reason I can’t rate this book higher despite the wonderful writing and heartfelt story may even seem small to some people, but to me it’s not. See, this book about how hard Holly worked to overcome the horrific bullying she endured contained something perhaps even the author doesn’t realize is hypocritical.
The regular use of slurs against disabled people. I know, I know. You may not even realize how offensive these little words are but to anyone who’s ever loved someone with a disability words like the R word and the same word replaced with an F in the beginning are heartbreaking. I don’t think for one moment this author intended to use these words so casually as an insult against people with disabilities, but it doesn’t take away the fact that’s exactly what they are. I’m stepping down off my soapbox now and going back to my regularly scheduled positive self.
**EDITED TO CLARIFY**
I am referring to the use of these words by the main character & her family and friends. I am not referring to these words being used in the acts of bullying against Holly, truthfully the ONLY characters who did not use these words were the bullies.
April 4, 2021
Concept better than execution.
April 12, 2021
I’m always down for a good sports romance, especially with real chunks of sports inside. Usually, it’s the physical part of sports–training and games–that is described. Here, it was the emotional part, I guess. This story focuses on Luca who’s about to retire, and how he feels about it.
Ultimately, it’s about a guy who’s changing his priorities. That’s where the romance comes from. He’s single, he has sporadic reunions with his family because he travels so much, and he doesn’t have anything besides his career. Not even a home. But after he meets Elise, everything changes, and he starts building another life. The after life. The overtime life! I loved watching the changes in Luca.
Elise was interesting too. She’s a teacher, a girl next door with only a gay best friend as anything close to family. Meeting with Luca’s extensive one is going to change her too. I’d have loved to see more of the problems that come with dating a celebrity, but it was barely brushed.
There wasn’t a lot of drama anyway–besides a little thing with a co-worker that I felt didn’t belong in this story. It was cute and sweet. But with a touch of steam.
I understand that the author brought back multiple characters from another series, and introduced a lot of new ones for the next books in this particular series, and though it wasn’t exactly confusing, that made for a lot of characters to follow, sometimes for just a couple of scenes–on top of Luca’s hundreds of sisters and their families (I’m kidding).
It dragged a bit at some point, was rushed at others, but the main themes are well developped and interesting. Plus, there’s Jax!
Quickie
- Series: Playing the field #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #sports romance #soccer #instalove #school teacher #Australia
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Elise McCoy & Luca Conti
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + thoughts of a retiring athlete, it was new and interesting
- – a bit too long
Ultimately, it’s about a guy who’s changing his priorities. That’s where the romance comes from. He’s single, he has sporadic reunions with his family because he travels so much, and he doesn’t have anything besides his career. Not even a home. But after he meets Elise, everything changes, and he starts building another life. The after life. The overtime life! I loved watching the changes in Luca.
Elise was interesting too. She’s a teacher, a girl next door with only a gay best friend as anything close to family. Meeting with Luca’s extensive one is going to change her too. I’d have loved to see more of the problems that come with dating a celebrity, but it was barely brushed.
There wasn’t a lot of drama anyway–besides a little thing with a co-worker that I felt didn’t belong in this story. It was cute and sweet. But with a touch of steam.
I understand that the author brought back multiple characters from another series, and introduced a lot of new ones for the next books in this particular series, and though it wasn’t exactly confusing, that made for a lot of characters to follow, sometimes for just a couple of scenes–on top of Luca’s hundreds of sisters and their families (I’m kidding).
It dragged a bit at some point, was rushed at others, but the main themes are well developped and interesting. Plus, there’s Jax!
Quickie
- Series: Playing the field #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #sports romance #soccer #instalove #school teacher #Australia
- Triggers: N/A
- Main couple: Elise McCoy & Luca Conti
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + thoughts of a retiring athlete, it was new and interesting
- – a bit too long
November 12, 2018
A family hurts, loves and feels….
Oh how I’ve loved this drama-fueled series of family, anger and forgiveness, and above all hope. Hope for each other, for the future, that love will work out. I believe this is the last of the McIntyre stories and I’m happy how it turned out but so sad that there will be no more…
“There was always someone who had your back, no matter what. That’s what a family was.”
Through tragedy, Zoe and Connor were given a second chance and they were almost afraid to take it. Connor went in like a clumsy elephant and Zoe responded in kind as their reunion was anything but warm and fuzzy. That is really in keeping with all siblings as they stumbled, fumbled and in all ways human, worked for their happily ever after. And, like the siblings before them, family rallied around these star-crossed lovers to provide support and a kick whenever needed. Not that they needed much of a kick. Connor knew what he had to do to win Zoe over and he accomplished it all with a sweetness that caught me off guard. Zoe had a lot to deal with and she kept it real by embracing all the good and dealing with the bad as best she could.
I loved this story and hated to see it end though happy endings are always welcome! The epilogue surprised me even as it had me in smiles and tears. The McIntyres touched my heart and won’t be forgotten anytime soon…
October 16, 2017
Family and dreams don’t always mesh…
“Now I knew I definitely wasn’t ready, but they needed me.”
I felt for Beau as he gave up his dreams for himself to go back home, face his family and take up the family dream. He had no idea how bad it had gotten but he was going to find out quickly. Good thing Payton was going to prove a welcome distraction…
Payton had her own dream and she was living it. It was a struggle, one she dealt with every day, but this, this was HER dream! And no one was going to mess with it!
These two were at odds from the very first moment. They had their own struggles to contend with but for some reason they wanted to add battling each other to their overloaded plates. Payton was delightfully un-graceful as she awkwardly resisted the temptation that was Beau while he just grinned that grin of his and kept on pushing… And all this in the shadow of family issues that make the Kardashians seem quiet…
Sweet, understated but sexy and fun too, this first read (for me) by this author has me jonesing for
more!
April 27, 2018
4 Stars
Wow!! What an emotional book!! Like this book is so emotional it can almost feel like you are drowning in the feels of it. And it’s very poignant and serious and will no doubt touch everyone in some way. I mean who has not been bullied at some point in their life? But for this type and for this far is just so sad and wrong. And the way it is written is exactly the truth when someone should be brave enough to stand up and put a stop to it and help. But some doesn’t realize their actions have consequences. And the ones being bullied doesn’t know that sometimes there is a rainbow at the end. To just find their strength and they always have people that love them and would support them. And this book represents this beautifully and I highly recommend it.
Wow!! What an emotional book!! Like this book is so emotional it can almost feel like you are drowning in the feels of it. And it’s very poignant and serious and will no doubt touch everyone in some way. I mean who has not been bullied at some point in their life? But for this type and for this far is just so sad and wrong. And the way it is written is exactly the truth when someone should be brave enough to stand up and put a stop to it and help. But some doesn’t realize their actions have consequences. And the ones being bullied doesn’t know that sometimes there is a rainbow at the end. To just find their strength and they always have people that love them and would support them. And this book represents this beautifully and I highly recommend it.
October 3, 2018
I ended this book the way I started it.....in tears. I am both happy and sad that this is the last of this series. Rebecca Barber has made me love this family so very much, and has put me through hell with each and every book but she noutdid herself with this one. Gage, Beau, Connor, Holly and Ryan and their respective partners are all such fantastic characters but there's one I love for the way she is such a sassy tough it out chick and that's Zoe. Finding Forever is an utterly fantastic end to this series.
November 8, 2019
I’m wrapping my head around all my feelings right now. This was a beautiful love story about a husband and wife and how life just happens.
We always think that everything in life is guaranteed but what happens when it’s not. I connected with both Maggie and Drew on so many levels. Shattered Dreams hit me so hard in the heart and the head because I’ve experienced the shattered dream.
Thank you Ms. Barber for this beautiful story. It portrayed both sides of the marriage and the troubles that exist perfectly.
We always think that everything in life is guaranteed but what happens when it’s not. I connected with both Maggie and Drew on so many levels. Shattered Dreams hit me so hard in the heart and the head because I’ve experienced the shattered dream.
Thank you Ms. Barber for this beautiful story. It portrayed both sides of the marriage and the troubles that exist perfectly.
November 25, 2018
This is an absolutely brilliant way to say a final goodbye to the McIntyres. A true Aussie christmas filled with surprises and a bit of drama but all in all love for this family.
July 15, 2021
Fallen is exactly what happens from the very first page. You fall in love with the characters, the storyline and the emotions that both evoke from you. Zach and Lily’s story is enchanting, witty, captivating and passionate. It has a little angst and is full of push and pull as these two walk the line between friendship and love. The chemistry and connection between these two is electric and will have your skin on fire. As you are drawn into the Everyday Heroes World with this standalone story, it intertwines with ease and perfection. A story that makes you smile, swoon and leaves you breathless.
December 11, 2017
Taking Charge - Meet the McIntyres Book #1 by Rebecca Barber
I was given this book for an honest and unbiased review.
Another fabulous ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️read from Rebecca Barber who has introduced us to a whole new collection of her wonderful characters in this new series - Meet the McIntyres.
This first in series, centres on Beau McIntyre, the eldest sibling in the McIntyre family. Beau has reluctantly returned to his family home, a farm in the country, unsure of why he really needs to come back, other than his younger brother calling him to return. He's lived his life in the city, partying, playing and working far from his country roots and barely giving any thought to where he came from.
Payton is the town baker, owning and operating Sweet Indulgence. She's a bit of a loner but her two best friends, Mia & Josie keep her from slipping into a chocolate coma or a dark depression. You might remember Mia and Josie from Rebecca's previous series Finding Your Place, which crosses over with this one.
You see, Payton has run from a life that was not her own and is determined to be in control of her own destiny. But in a small country town, there's not much time for romance and barely enough time to socialise but after having her heart ripped out by her ex-fiancé, she's not prepared to gamble with her emotions any more.
These two characters have an immediate and striking attraction on their first meeting and the heat only increases between them with every following chapter. The family connections and the secrets that they share all add up to a wonderful story, one that will please any reader who enjoys a good family drama but with the added heat of a delicious relationship driven story.
With more fabulous stories to come from the other McIntyre siblings, Connor, Gage, Ryan and Holly, Rebecca Barber has set this new series on the right path for success and a wonderfully heartfelt and passionate series and stories.
Merged review:
Taking Charge - Meet the McIntyres Book #1 by Rebecca Barber
I was given this book for an honest and unbiased review.
Another fabulous ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️read from Rebecca Barber who has introduced us to a whole new collection of her wonderful characters in this new series - Meet the McIntyres.
This first in series, centres on Beau McIntyre, the eldest sibling in the McIntyre family. Beau has reluctantly returned to his family home, a farm in the country, unsure of why he really needs to come back, other than his younger brother calling him to return. He's lived his life in the city, partying, playing and working far from his country roots and barely giving any thought to where he came from.
Payton is the town baker, owning and operating Sweet Indulgence. She's a bit of a loner but her two best friends, Mia & Josie keep her from slipping into a chocolate coma or a dark depression. You might remember Mia and Josue from Rebecca's previous series Finding Your Place, which crosses over with this one.
You see, Payton has run from a life that was not her own and is determined to be in control of her own destiny. But in a small country town, there's not much time for romance and barely enough time to socialise but after having her heart ripped out by her ex-fiancé, she's not prepared to gamble with her emotions any more.
These two characters have an immediate and striking attraction on their first meeting and the heat only increases
I was given this book for an honest and unbiased review.
Another fabulous ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️read from Rebecca Barber who has introduced us to a whole new collection of her wonderful characters in this new series - Meet the McIntyres.
This first in series, centres on Beau McIntyre, the eldest sibling in the McIntyre family. Beau has reluctantly returned to his family home, a farm in the country, unsure of why he really needs to come back, other than his younger brother calling him to return. He's lived his life in the city, partying, playing and working far from his country roots and barely giving any thought to where he came from.
Payton is the town baker, owning and operating Sweet Indulgence. She's a bit of a loner but her two best friends, Mia & Josie keep her from slipping into a chocolate coma or a dark depression. You might remember Mia and Josie from Rebecca's previous series Finding Your Place, which crosses over with this one.
You see, Payton has run from a life that was not her own and is determined to be in control of her own destiny. But in a small country town, there's not much time for romance and barely enough time to socialise but after having her heart ripped out by her ex-fiancé, she's not prepared to gamble with her emotions any more.
These two characters have an immediate and striking attraction on their first meeting and the heat only increases between them with every following chapter. The family connections and the secrets that they share all add up to a wonderful story, one that will please any reader who enjoys a good family drama but with the added heat of a delicious relationship driven story.
With more fabulous stories to come from the other McIntyre siblings, Connor, Gage, Ryan and Holly, Rebecca Barber has set this new series on the right path for success and a wonderfully heartfelt and passionate series and stories.
Merged review:
Taking Charge - Meet the McIntyres Book #1 by Rebecca Barber
I was given this book for an honest and unbiased review.
Another fabulous ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️read from Rebecca Barber who has introduced us to a whole new collection of her wonderful characters in this new series - Meet the McIntyres.
This first in series, centres on Beau McIntyre, the eldest sibling in the McIntyre family. Beau has reluctantly returned to his family home, a farm in the country, unsure of why he really needs to come back, other than his younger brother calling him to return. He's lived his life in the city, partying, playing and working far from his country roots and barely giving any thought to where he came from.
Payton is the town baker, owning and operating Sweet Indulgence. She's a bit of a loner but her two best friends, Mia & Josie keep her from slipping into a chocolate coma or a dark depression. You might remember Mia and Josue from Rebecca's previous series Finding Your Place, which crosses over with this one.
You see, Payton has run from a life that was not her own and is determined to be in control of her own destiny. But in a small country town, there's not much time for romance and barely enough time to socialise but after having her heart ripped out by her ex-fiancé, she's not prepared to gamble with her emotions any more.
These two characters have an immediate and striking attraction on their first meeting and the heat only increases
May 2, 2018
This is a beautifully written book about bullying, told in absolute and brutal honesty.
Fighting Back picks up right where Picturing Perfect finished, and we get to stay with our favourite characters in the McIntyre Family as they each go through a watershed moment of their own. I have to say that while each book is written as a stand-a-lone, there is every reason to start with Beau’s book, where we are then lead into Gage’s story, which culminates with Holly’s crisis at school. This throws the world of her four brothers into a chaos of anger and helplessness as they try to come to grips with the fall-out of Holly’s ultimate and almost fatal cry of anguish.
Shit, I felt angry and helpless going with Holly as she was just trying to get through each day, one at a time. And, I just wanted to wade in and beat some heads, dishing out a large platter of revenge, especially when I read through the book and discovered just what had been going on in her life at boarding school. As I said, absolute and brutal honesty.
As for our hero, how Rebecca Barber managed to get into the head of Jack, a teenage boy, which his typical foul mouth of diatribe was nothing short of amazing. He is going through his own unsettled and soul-destroying family drama where his parents did everything to verbally knock each other around, and I felt like I was right there with him. Among all this, he is drawn to Holly, and sees the vibrancy beneath her façade, and he is a true hero in my book. I adored his young bolshy character, and Ms. Barber’s written language sounded exactly like me and the teenage boys I started my trade training with, back in the day.
I really want to emphasise, that as bad as it sounded for Holly, I am rapt that it was not diluted one bit. Being from New Zealand, I’m ashamed to say that we not only have the highest youth suicide rate in the world, but the bullying in our schools is out of control.
Kudos, Rebecca Barber for your beautifully written and highly emotional book that shows it is possible to fight back and heal from what was the most untenable of situations for a young teenage girl. 5 Stars.
Fighting Back picks up right where Picturing Perfect finished, and we get to stay with our favourite characters in the McIntyre Family as they each go through a watershed moment of their own. I have to say that while each book is written as a stand-a-lone, there is every reason to start with Beau’s book, where we are then lead into Gage’s story, which culminates with Holly’s crisis at school. This throws the world of her four brothers into a chaos of anger and helplessness as they try to come to grips with the fall-out of Holly’s ultimate and almost fatal cry of anguish.
Shit, I felt angry and helpless going with Holly as she was just trying to get through each day, one at a time. And, I just wanted to wade in and beat some heads, dishing out a large platter of revenge, especially when I read through the book and discovered just what had been going on in her life at boarding school. As I said, absolute and brutal honesty.
As for our hero, how Rebecca Barber managed to get into the head of Jack, a teenage boy, which his typical foul mouth of diatribe was nothing short of amazing. He is going through his own unsettled and soul-destroying family drama where his parents did everything to verbally knock each other around, and I felt like I was right there with him. Among all this, he is drawn to Holly, and sees the vibrancy beneath her façade, and he is a true hero in my book. I adored his young bolshy character, and Ms. Barber’s written language sounded exactly like me and the teenage boys I started my trade training with, back in the day.
I really want to emphasise, that as bad as it sounded for Holly, I am rapt that it was not diluted one bit. Being from New Zealand, I’m ashamed to say that we not only have the highest youth suicide rate in the world, but the bullying in our schools is out of control.
Kudos, Rebecca Barber for your beautifully written and highly emotional book that shows it is possible to fight back and heal from what was the most untenable of situations for a young teenage girl. 5 Stars.
February 8, 2020
Logan-Freaking-Oliver
Seriously. Rebecca Barber has written her hottest book boyfriend yet, and I couldn’t get enough of Logan Oliver, sexy Australian Rules Football player. He is hot on and off the field and, well, just hot and funny as all hell. He lives with a couple of his friends, also sports players, and I have to say that Rebecca Barber’s iconic witty humour really comes into its own with the hilarious interactions between these single guys.
Tasha is the sharp tongue anti-fan who isn’t at all impressed with his on or off field antics. She’s too busy with her Journalism studies, and can’t understand why every female around wants to hit that, until, ... she actually meets him in person. There’s more to him than his public persona, so she not only wants to hit that, but she wants to take him down, in more ways than one. It’s fun, but her background could become an issue for them.
With Marked, the first book in Ms. Barbers new Playing Games sports series, she is showcasing her versatile writing style in winning form as she brings us Logan-Freaking-Oliver, Tasha, their friends, and, her own blend of Australian humour that she has let go for a run on its own!
This is now my favourite book to date from Rebecca Barber, and for those who love sports romances spiced with heat, and flavoured with plenty of wit, I can hand-on-heart recommend this as a must-read to you all. 5-Freaking-Stars for Marked!!!!! 🏈
Seriously. Rebecca Barber has written her hottest book boyfriend yet, and I couldn’t get enough of Logan Oliver, sexy Australian Rules Football player. He is hot on and off the field and, well, just hot and funny as all hell. He lives with a couple of his friends, also sports players, and I have to say that Rebecca Barber’s iconic witty humour really comes into its own with the hilarious interactions between these single guys.
Tasha is the sharp tongue anti-fan who isn’t at all impressed with his on or off field antics. She’s too busy with her Journalism studies, and can’t understand why every female around wants to hit that, until, ... she actually meets him in person. There’s more to him than his public persona, so she not only wants to hit that, but she wants to take him down, in more ways than one. It’s fun, but her background could become an issue for them.
With Marked, the first book in Ms. Barbers new Playing Games sports series, she is showcasing her versatile writing style in winning form as she brings us Logan-Freaking-Oliver, Tasha, their friends, and, her own blend of Australian humour that she has let go for a run on its own!
This is now my favourite book to date from Rebecca Barber, and for those who love sports romances spiced with heat, and flavoured with plenty of wit, I can hand-on-heart recommend this as a must-read to you all. 5-Freaking-Stars for Marked!!!!! 🏈
September 23, 2022
Ok, it took me longer than I care to admit for me to figure out this the sport that this book revolves around was Australian football. I don’t want anyone else to make that mistake, so I’m putting it out in front. It is full of banter, and smutty scenes. It also didn’t seem to move way too fast, like the instalove that seems to be trending lately. I really liked that these characters were able to admit when they messed up. Overall, a solid romance.
Logan was drafted to play football, one of his dreams from when he was little. He’s on Melbourne’s team, and he’s good at what he does. So why does this one blogger bust his balls any chance they get? And why does it bother him so much? He should keep his nose in his textbooks, because he is doing the nearly impossible, working towards a degree while playing football.
Tasha is studying journalism at school, working at a cafe and writing a blog on the side. She’s grown up watching football. She knew stats and lineups like other people knew celebrity gossip growing up. So it’s natural that she will become a sports journalist. She doesn’t mind giving an honest, no holds barred take on golden boys who get paid to play the game. Until she literally runs into one at the club her best friend drug her to, that she can’t seem to keep her hands off of.
Logan was drafted to play football, one of his dreams from when he was little. He’s on Melbourne’s team, and he’s good at what he does. So why does this one blogger bust his balls any chance they get? And why does it bother him so much? He should keep his nose in his textbooks, because he is doing the nearly impossible, working towards a degree while playing football.
Tasha is studying journalism at school, working at a cafe and writing a blog on the side. She’s grown up watching football. She knew stats and lineups like other people knew celebrity gossip growing up. So it’s natural that she will become a sports journalist. She doesn’t mind giving an honest, no holds barred take on golden boys who get paid to play the game. Until she literally runs into one at the club her best friend drug her to, that she can’t seem to keep her hands off of.
December 11, 2017
Picturing Perfect - Rebecca Barber
Picturing Perfect is the second book in the Meet The McIntyres Series and every bit as wonderful as the first
Rebecca Barber introduced us to a wonderfully real collection of new characters in this series - Meet the McIntyres and Picturing Perfect finds us living vicariously through Gage McIntyre and his new interest in Carley.
When the McIntyres get together for a New Years party, country town style, so many things will change for Gage and for Carley.
Gage just has enough to deal with, sorting out his increasingly distant mother, and hoping she can finally be the mother they all deserve and taking on his younger sisters somber moods..... what’s happening with Holly? Gage just can’t afford any more complicated situations but Carley is just too much of a distraction.
Carley has had her own share of disappointment within her own family. They’re so different from the loving and supportive McIntyres so why can’t she just have a little of their kind of family.
Rebecca brings us more fabulous stories from the other McIntyre siblings, Connor, Ryan and Holly, in future books and has firmly set this new series at the top of my favourites 2017/2018. Another wonderfully quirky but heartfelt story with a very real family flavour.
Picturing Perfect is the second book in the Meet The McIntyres Series and every bit as wonderful as the first
Rebecca Barber introduced us to a wonderfully real collection of new characters in this series - Meet the McIntyres and Picturing Perfect finds us living vicariously through Gage McIntyre and his new interest in Carley.
When the McIntyres get together for a New Years party, country town style, so many things will change for Gage and for Carley.
Gage just has enough to deal with, sorting out his increasingly distant mother, and hoping she can finally be the mother they all deserve and taking on his younger sisters somber moods..... what’s happening with Holly? Gage just can’t afford any more complicated situations but Carley is just too much of a distraction.
Carley has had her own share of disappointment within her own family. They’re so different from the loving and supportive McIntyres so why can’t she just have a little of their kind of family.
Rebecca brings us more fabulous stories from the other McIntyre siblings, Connor, Ryan and Holly, in future books and has firmly set this new series at the top of my favourites 2017/2018. Another wonderfully quirky but heartfelt story with a very real family flavour.
January 25, 2018
This is the second book in the series by this author. It can be read as a stand alone but it was wonderful to be able to catch up on all the ongoing drama from the first book.
This is about younger brother Gage, the local veterinarian, and Payton's best friend, Carly. We met Carly in the first book. Both leads have troubling family life. They have been dancing around each other since Carly came to the small Australian town. They bump into each other in when they least expect it. And although neither professes to wanting a relationship, they both can keep their minds on nothing else. New Year's Eve sends them on a journey of discovery and and opening of hearts.
I liked that there still in unrest with the McIntyre clan. It was nice to meet the youngest siblings finally. Troubled doesn't seem to cut the surface where this bunch is concerned. I am happy that Carly along with Payton have been able to be balms to the family. Their HEA are perfect for sharing love all around.
Great secondary characters/friends. Dreading the issues in the next book but still looking forward to what will come.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
This is about younger brother Gage, the local veterinarian, and Payton's best friend, Carly. We met Carly in the first book. Both leads have troubling family life. They have been dancing around each other since Carly came to the small Australian town. They bump into each other in when they least expect it. And although neither professes to wanting a relationship, they both can keep their minds on nothing else. New Year's Eve sends them on a journey of discovery and and opening of hearts.
I liked that there still in unrest with the McIntyre clan. It was nice to meet the youngest siblings finally. Troubled doesn't seem to cut the surface where this bunch is concerned. I am happy that Carly along with Payton have been able to be balms to the family. Their HEA are perfect for sharing love all around.
Great secondary characters/friends. Dreading the issues in the next book but still looking forward to what will come.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
May 4, 2018
It's taken me some time to write this review, not because I don't like it but because it hit home with me big time. I cried right along with Holly, I felt every ounce of pain she felt.
See, this book shows you that bullying doesn't just affect you while it's happening but how the scars, both mental and physical can stay with you for much, much longer.
Anyone that has been bullied will relate to Holly's story on such a deep level because they KNOW the feelings Holly is feeling first hand, but Holly is a survivor she just needs to heal a little.
My wish is that every person that has bullied someone could read this book and maybe, just MAYBE feel a little bit of the pain, hurt and confusion that every victim feels
My second wish is tbat every victim could read this book and see that there is light at the end of that long dark tunnel, and you won't feel the way you are feeling now forever.
This book will stay with me for a very long time.
See, this book shows you that bullying doesn't just affect you while it's happening but how the scars, both mental and physical can stay with you for much, much longer.
Anyone that has been bullied will relate to Holly's story on such a deep level because they KNOW the feelings Holly is feeling first hand, but Holly is a survivor she just needs to heal a little.
My wish is that every person that has bullied someone could read this book and maybe, just MAYBE feel a little bit of the pain, hurt and confusion that every victim feels
My second wish is tbat every victim could read this book and see that there is light at the end of that long dark tunnel, and you won't feel the way you are feeling now forever.
This book will stay with me for a very long time.
October 9, 2017
Since I’ve found Rebecca Barber, I’ve been a fan of her writing! And Taking Charge, and the McIntyres, are just another series of hers to love!
Beau comes back home after a frantic call from one of his younger brothers. He left town years ago to get away from his father and make something of himself so he’s less than thrilled to be back home.
Payton has just moved in, well 6 months ago, after catching her fiancée in bed with another woman. So she turns tail and runs to a new town and buys the bakery in town. Owning a bakery has been her dream and she’s living it in this small town where no ones knows her and her background. Except Beau is just too much for her and she can’t keep away.
So many twists and turns I didn’t see coming but just made this more of a gripping story!
Beau comes back home after a frantic call from one of his younger brothers. He left town years ago to get away from his father and make something of himself so he’s less than thrilled to be back home.
Payton has just moved in, well 6 months ago, after catching her fiancée in bed with another woman. So she turns tail and runs to a new town and buys the bakery in town. Owning a bakery has been her dream and she’s living it in this small town where no ones knows her and her background. Except Beau is just too much for her and she can’t keep away.
So many twists and turns I didn’t see coming but just made this more of a gripping story!
March 19, 2020
This was a great start to a new series! Logan was a football player and Natasha was a reporter/ blogger. Natasha writes a couple of blogs about his team that aren't so flattering to Logan or doesn't even mention him at all. They meet and start talking to each other and the whole time Logan doesn't know she is the person behind the words. Will he be able to get past her deception? I really enjoyed reading their story. I am looking forward to seeing what comes next in the series!
Thank you for the privilege of reading this book! Well done ❤️
Thank you for the privilege of reading this book! Well done ❤️
April 14, 2018
Wow! Make sure you've stocked up on tissues before you read this book.
Rebecca Barber makes you want to protect Holly, but it's not til near the end you really find out what happened to her.
It is a completely gut wrenching read but one that makes you love the McIntyres even more.......oh and Jack
Rebecca Barber makes you want to protect Holly, but it's not til near the end you really find out what happened to her.
It is a completely gut wrenching read but one that makes you love the McIntyres even more.......oh and Jack
October 4, 2018
OMG I loved this book, I couldn't put it down. I loved how Zoe finally got her happy ending. I cried and cried in this book, with the heart ache she had to go through to get to her happy ending. I wish this series didn't have to end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2019
OMG
Whenever I read anything by Rebecca Barber, I can guarantee tears, happy and sad. But the best thing is I know they will be worth it!! I felt connected to Maggie in this story, more with her insecurities than her other troubles. But O definitely liked Drews character too
Whenever I read anything by Rebecca Barber, I can guarantee tears, happy and sad. But the best thing is I know they will be worth it!! I felt connected to Maggie in this story, more with her insecurities than her other troubles. But O definitely liked Drews character too
Want to read
March 10, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/10/2019)! 🎁
Want to read
December 23, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/23/2019)! 🎁
October 2, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Firefighter + foster baby + instant family feels = total heart-melter
Zach Higgins started his day like any other—coffee, firehouse shift, routine. He did not expect to end it completely smitten… not with a woman, but with a baby. One blink of her tiny lashes and this tattooed Aussie firefighter was a goner.
Enter Lily Evans, pearls, petticoat, and all. She’s dreamt of motherhood her whole life, but life hasn’t made it easy. When she finally gets the chance to foster, she’s overjoyed—until she shows up to find the baby already in the arms of a gorgeous, shirtless firefighter who looks like sin and speaks with an accent that could melt steel.
From there it’s sparks, banter, and all the feels. Lily’s soft heart and Zach’s rough edges are the perfect match, especially when both find themselves unexpectedly tangled in dreams of family, forever, and late-night lullabies.
This story has all the best tropes:
✔ Sexy firefighter with a protective streak a mile wide
✔ Strong, nurturing heroine who’s not afraid to open her heart
✔ Adorable baby who steals every single scene
✔ Found family vibes with a side of swoony heat
If you love romances where the hero falls just as hard for the baby as he does for the heroine, this one is an absolute 5-star keeper. Tender, steamy, and heartwarming—it’s firefighter cinnamon roll energy wrapped in tattoos and an Aussie accent.
Zach Higgins started his day like any other—coffee, firehouse shift, routine. He did not expect to end it completely smitten… not with a woman, but with a baby. One blink of her tiny lashes and this tattooed Aussie firefighter was a goner.
Enter Lily Evans, pearls, petticoat, and all. She’s dreamt of motherhood her whole life, but life hasn’t made it easy. When she finally gets the chance to foster, she’s overjoyed—until she shows up to find the baby already in the arms of a gorgeous, shirtless firefighter who looks like sin and speaks with an accent that could melt steel.
From there it’s sparks, banter, and all the feels. Lily’s soft heart and Zach’s rough edges are the perfect match, especially when both find themselves unexpectedly tangled in dreams of family, forever, and late-night lullabies.
This story has all the best tropes:
✔ Sexy firefighter with a protective streak a mile wide
✔ Strong, nurturing heroine who’s not afraid to open her heart
✔ Adorable baby who steals every single scene
✔ Found family vibes with a side of swoony heat
If you love romances where the hero falls just as hard for the baby as he does for the heroine, this one is an absolute 5-star keeper. Tender, steamy, and heartwarming—it’s firefighter cinnamon roll energy wrapped in tattoos and an Aussie accent.
July 15, 2021
A new author and a new addition to Everyday Heroes World, well you couldn’t ask for much more especially when the story you are reading is riveting with wonderful characters. I can’t believe I haven’t come across Rebecca Barber before now and I will certainly be checking out her other works.
Firefighter Zack Higgins and his colleague Grady find a baby in the safe haven box, believing the baby to be a boy Zack falls hard and fast for the little bundle of joy who actually turns out to be little girl. Lily is called in to become the foster mum while they try and find a permanent home for the baby but this little girl soon wins the hearts of everyone around her. The time Zack and Lily spent together has them naming the baby and as much as she steals their heart they also find themselves falling for each other. The chemistry is sizzling, the story emotional, the characters loveable but does that mean this couple and the baby can become a family…..guess you need to read the book to find that out
Loved everything about this wonderful read from the very talented Ms Barber.
Firefighter Zack Higgins and his colleague Grady find a baby in the safe haven box, believing the baby to be a boy Zack falls hard and fast for the little bundle of joy who actually turns out to be little girl. Lily is called in to become the foster mum while they try and find a permanent home for the baby but this little girl soon wins the hearts of everyone around her. The time Zack and Lily spent together has them naming the baby and as much as she steals their heart they also find themselves falling for each other. The chemistry is sizzling, the story emotional, the characters loveable but does that mean this couple and the baby can become a family…..guess you need to read the book to find that out
Loved everything about this wonderful read from the very talented Ms Barber.
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