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The Girl of His Dreams / Playing by the Greek's Rules
A DATE WITH DESTINYThe moment she turns twenty-five, Kayla Bedford is going to grab her trust-fund money and take off for Paris. She’ll drink wine, read at quaint cafés and meet a handsome prince who’ll sweep her off her feet. It’s been her dream since she was twelve. And now she’s so close to realizing it, she’s counting down the days.But first she’s got to do something for her boss-slash-landlord-slash-best-friend. Patrick is a handsome, caring vet. But he needs someone to love, even if he doesn’t think so. Yet, just as she finds the perfect person to set him up with, Kayla gets a last-minute case of blinding jealousy. Does she have feelings for Patrick? Should she abandon her dreams to find out?And how can he hold her back if he feels the same?FREE BONUS STORY INCLUDED IN THIS VOLUME!Playing by the Greek’s Rules by USA TODAY bestselling author Sarah MorganThere’s no one better to teach Lily Rose the rules of a fun fling than her boss, Nik Zervakis. But once their sensual affair starts, can either of them live by his rules?
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 27, 2016
259 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
About the author
Susan Mallery
866 books15.5k followers#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery writes heartwarming and humorous novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship, romance. She's best known for putting nuanced characters into emotionally complex, real-life situations with twists that surprise readers to laughter. Because Susan is passionate about animal welfare, pets play a big role in her books. Beloved by millions of readers worldwide, her books have been translated into 28 languages.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 13, 2017
It was ok
April 20, 2019
The Girl Of His Dreams is a fantastic read. The friendship/relationship between Kayla and Patrick is realistic and makes it easy to identify with. The side stories add to the plot and don't distract you from the main focus. The only issue I found was the mention of time in the story. Throughout the story you are constantly bombarded with the ever looming trip to Paris to the point where I felt like I was screaming, "Is this trip ever going to happen?!" Then when it does happen, it's so quick and over with - to the point of being a letdown. Aside from that, it was quite enjoyable.
For this edition, the volume includes Playing By The Greek's Rules, which is just as enjoyable but viewing the relationship from a different, almost opposite, direction. The main characters - Lily and Nik - are enjoyable and seem realistic even in their early faulted states. The progression of their relationship is natural and choices are relatable. Furthermore, this book does a great job of describing the sexual relations without feeling cheesy. No weird names or phrases to distract and/or pull you out of the story, like some other romance novels tend to do. Like The Girl of His Dreams, this story also has the slight issue of time in its finale, which makes the ending a bit cliche and too fantastical.
Overall, these are two great romance novels and fit perfectly together, despite their different perspectives on romance relationships and level of intimacy.
For this edition, the volume includes Playing By The Greek's Rules, which is just as enjoyable but viewing the relationship from a different, almost opposite, direction. The main characters - Lily and Nik - are enjoyable and seem realistic even in their early faulted states. The progression of their relationship is natural and choices are relatable. Furthermore, this book does a great job of describing the sexual relations without feeling cheesy. No weird names or phrases to distract and/or pull you out of the story, like some other romance novels tend to do. Like The Girl of His Dreams, this story also has the slight issue of time in its finale, which makes the ending a bit cliche and too fantastical.
Overall, these are two great romance novels and fit perfectly together, despite their different perspectives on romance relationships and level of intimacy.
December 14, 2018
That Girl of His Dreams
Though I enjoyed both stories in this combo I enjoyed the second book better. The first was about a long time friendship between two co-workers. He a veterinarian she his assistant. She is counting down the days until she gets her trust fund and can go to Paris France. She ends up trying to fix him up so that he wouldn't be alone. But along the way round herself falling, or becoming aware that she had feelings for him all along. But will she leave when the time comes? Will he let her go? What about the problems that he is having will he let her know?
The second story was about rebounds. She has had problems with the men in her life that are so wrong for her. The latest she found out was married. Now she is after an affair that doesn't include her heart. And she thinks she has meet the perfect man. He doesn't do commitments. Ever. He will show her a side of entanglement without the strings. This story has me laughing throughout. She was so trusting and open. He was intrigued by her outlook on life. Will read this story again.
Though I enjoyed both stories in this combo I enjoyed the second book better. The first was about a long time friendship between two co-workers. He a veterinarian she his assistant. She is counting down the days until she gets her trust fund and can go to Paris France. She ends up trying to fix him up so that he wouldn't be alone. But along the way round herself falling, or becoming aware that she had feelings for him all along. But will she leave when the time comes? Will he let her go? What about the problems that he is having will he let her know?
The second story was about rebounds. She has had problems with the men in her life that are so wrong for her. The latest she found out was married. Now she is after an affair that doesn't include her heart. And she thinks she has meet the perfect man. He doesn't do commitments. Ever. He will show her a side of entanglement without the strings. This story has me laughing throughout. She was so trusting and open. He was intrigued by her outlook on life. Will read this story again.
April 2, 2020
Truly enjoyed both books. The Girl of his Dreams. Kayla Bedford has worked with her best friend Patrick since graduating from college and is looking forward to her 25th birthday when she receives her inheritance . When her inheritance due shortly, Kayla plans on her dream trip to Paris. Meantime, she invites her triplet sister to visit in hopes of a love match with Patrick. When Kayla gets jealous and things change between her and Patrick can she still go to Paris.
Playing by Greek Rules by Sarah Morgan is also a great read. Lily Rose is an archeologist by day and cleans homes in the evening in Greece to supplement her income. She also works at Nik Zervakis office couple days a week. One night she is cleaning a house by herself because the rest of the crew were in an accident. While cleaning Nik and his Date show up early and the fun begins. Nik gets her to go to the Minoan art exhibit with him and Lily Rose decides she wants to be a love them and leave them person like Nik. neither expects what happens next
Playing by Greek Rules by Sarah Morgan is also a great read. Lily Rose is an archeologist by day and cleans homes in the evening in Greece to supplement her income. She also works at Nik Zervakis office couple days a week. One night she is cleaning a house by herself because the rest of the crew were in an accident. While cleaning Nik and his Date show up early and the fun begins. Nik gets her to go to the Minoan art exhibit with him and Lily Rose decides she wants to be a love them and leave them person like Nik. neither expects what happens next
August 21, 2017
Lily and Nik Rocked! 3.5*****
Wow! The first novel, " The Girl of His Dream", was the limiting reading factor of this duo. Just could not gel with the characters, Kayla and Patrick; for being " best friends", they seemed to lack the communication skills gene. A novel with cute puppies, a vet, and successful animal therapy, should hold the reader's attention to the last line. This did not happen, and Susan Mallery happens to be one of my favorite contemporary novelist. 2*****
The second novel by Sarah Morgan, " Playing By the Greek Rules", was witty and, Lily was truly an inspiring, sunny character, while jaded Nik, and his wealth, happily became her favorite someone! Loved how two individuals with the same traumatic, childhood incidents, affected them so drastically different. Off to find other Sarah Morgan novels!! 4.25*****
Wow! The first novel, " The Girl of His Dream", was the limiting reading factor of this duo. Just could not gel with the characters, Kayla and Patrick; for being " best friends", they seemed to lack the communication skills gene. A novel with cute puppies, a vet, and successful animal therapy, should hold the reader's attention to the last line. This did not happen, and Susan Mallery happens to be one of my favorite contemporary novelist. 2*****
The second novel by Sarah Morgan, " Playing By the Greek Rules", was witty and, Lily was truly an inspiring, sunny character, while jaded Nik, and his wealth, happily became her favorite someone! Loved how two individuals with the same traumatic, childhood incidents, affected them so drastically different. Off to find other Sarah Morgan novels!! 4.25*****
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2020
Kayla Bedford has had the dream of flying to Paris and meeting her prince charming since the age of twelve. Now it's almost time for it to become true, but her boss and best friend Patrick could be the one thing that might stand in her way. What will happen? Will Patrick love her enough to let her go? Will she let Patrick know what she feels towards him? A nice little romance story
2nd story: Playing by the Greek's Rules by Sarah Morgan
Lily Rose has been tricked once more by a married man and when she found out she kicked him to the curb. Now she says she will have sex with out the romance so her heart will not be broken. She meets Nik Zervakis. He is everything she doesn't want in a romance but he'd be great for uninvolved sex. She has rules and he does too. Can they live up to his rules, that is the question?? A good romance story.
2nd story: Playing by the Greek's Rules by Sarah Morgan
Lily Rose has been tricked once more by a married man and when she found out she kicked him to the curb. Now she says she will have sex with out the romance so her heart will not be broken. She meets Nik Zervakis. He is everything she doesn't want in a romance but he'd be great for uninvolved sex. She has rules and he does too. Can they live up to his rules, that is the question?? A good romance story.
March 12, 2021
This review is based solely on Girl Of His Dreams by Susan Mallery. I loved Patrick and Kayla from the start. They are so cute together. I love their dynamic at work but also how they’ve built a life at home, where she lives above his garage so they see each other daily. The date was so fun to read, but the end of the date (before she knew that he knew - big Friends vibes here) made me a bit worried that things might get too heated between him and “Elissa.” All in all, another delightful, fast-paced read from Susan Mallery. I have been enjoying reading her older works from pre-Fools Gold days. 4 stars
April 16, 2020
The Girl of His Dreams:
I believe fear of risk is what held Kayla and Patrick back. Kayla loves to take the dogs to the retirement home. I was sorry to hear about her accident but she was able to connect with the you bicyclist.
Playing By The Greek's Rules:
This is an enduring yet funny story. Lily believes in love. Nik isn't. This story takes place in Greece. I laughed and I cried. Lily is sunshine and Nik is a thunderstorm.
I believe fear of risk is what held Kayla and Patrick back. Kayla loves to take the dogs to the retirement home. I was sorry to hear about her accident but she was able to connect with the you bicyclist.
Playing By The Greek's Rules:
This is an enduring yet funny story. Lily believes in love. Nik isn't. This story takes place in Greece. I laughed and I cried. Lily is sunshine and Nik is a thunderstorm.
July 14, 2017
Oddly enough, I didn't like The Girl of His Dreams, as it seemed a little silly to me. However, I notice that this book by Susan Mallery was written quite a few years ago, and I do like her later books. I did get a kick out of Playing by the Greek's Rules and wouldn't mind trying another book by Sarah Morgan.
July 9, 2017
AUDIOBOOK:
Super cute. Great beach read! A little fluffy, cheesy but great when you don't want to overthink anything!
Super cute. Great beach read! A little fluffy, cheesy but great when you don't want to overthink anything!
September 7, 2017
Cute easy reads, especially enjoyed Sarah Morgan's contribution, will definitely be seeking out more from her!
April 17, 2021
Great story, great characters, feelings were drawn out too long in parts. Loved animal connections with people. Pet therapy. Friendship to love story
May 7, 2023
Audiobook.
A quick great read. A beach read for sure.
A quick great read. A beach read for sure.
August 3, 2017
That awkward moment when the bonus story is way better than the actual story in this book.
3 stars - The Girl of His Dreams by Susan Mallery
I don't seem to be the biggest fan of Mallery's older stories...but I sure am glad the cover got a makeover! Kayla and Patrick kiss each other and cuddle on a daily basis...and they honestly thought they didn't have the hots for each other? Also, what is with Mallery and the crazy/neglectful moms? Overall, cute story, but not her most swoon-worthy.
5 stars - Playing by the Greek's Rules by Sarah Morgan
Now THIS is what I'm talking about! Perfect beach read. I love stories about dickheads like Nik and Lily was adorably dorky and naive. I'm going to need to check out more of Sarah Morgan's work.
3 stars - The Girl of His Dreams by Susan Mallery
I don't seem to be the biggest fan of Mallery's older stories...but I sure am glad the cover got a makeover! Kayla and Patrick kiss each other and cuddle on a daily basis...and they honestly thought they didn't have the hots for each other? Also, what is with Mallery and the crazy/neglectful moms? Overall, cute story, but not her most swoon-worthy.
5 stars - Playing by the Greek's Rules by Sarah Morgan
Now THIS is what I'm talking about! Perfect beach read. I love stories about dickheads like Nik and Lily was adorably dorky and naive. I'm going to need to check out more of Sarah Morgan's work.
March 1, 2017
Two great stories with many ups and downs and finally the best outcome. Easy 1 day read.
November 4, 2016
Two wonderful authors combined two wonderful stories into once fantastic book.
The Girl of His Dreams by Susan Mallery is a story of dreams, hopes and the reality of not seeing what you want is right in front of you until it is almost too late. Kayla Bedford is one of three identical triplets and has dreams to go to Paris, meet a prince and fall in love. Patrick is Kayla's boss/landlord/best-friend and all around good guy. Kayla is determined to fix him up before she leaves but when she finds someone, jealousy steps and she realizes that she has feelings for him. Patrick is doing everything to hide his feelings from Kayla so she won't cancel her dream trip.
Playing by the Greek's Rules by Sarah Morgan is a story of fighting the past to find love in the present. Lily Rose grew up in foster care, abandoned as a baby but still has an optimistic look on life and love. Although she gets her heart broken, she never gives up. Nik Zervakis doesn't believe in love because of his father's failed marriages but when he meets Lily, things start to change. This story has love, laughs, tears and a sense of wonder.
The Girl of His Dreams by Susan Mallery is a story of dreams, hopes and the reality of not seeing what you want is right in front of you until it is almost too late. Kayla Bedford is one of three identical triplets and has dreams to go to Paris, meet a prince and fall in love. Patrick is Kayla's boss/landlord/best-friend and all around good guy. Kayla is determined to fix him up before she leaves but when she finds someone, jealousy steps and she realizes that she has feelings for him. Patrick is doing everything to hide his feelings from Kayla so she won't cancel her dream trip.
Playing by the Greek's Rules by Sarah Morgan is a story of fighting the past to find love in the present. Lily Rose grew up in foster care, abandoned as a baby but still has an optimistic look on life and love. Although she gets her heart broken, she never gives up. Nik Zervakis doesn't believe in love because of his father's failed marriages but when he meets Lily, things start to change. This story has love, laughs, tears and a sense of wonder.
October 10, 2016
Slow going on first story .. second one was faster.
Surprised to find a double printing of some pages in the first book as well.
Surprised to find a double printing of some pages in the first book as well.
did-not-finish
December 2, 2020DNF I did not read the Susan Mallory book. The reviews were not that good and I really just wanted to read the first book in Sarah Morgan's puffin island series.
April 5, 2017
Cute story of the guy/girl next door. This was a little more drawn with not a whole lot of buildup than I would have liked. Patrick seems like every girls' dream. Great profession, very caring. Just slower than most men.
Kayla, I loved her personality until after the deed gets done. Then I just wanted to shake her a little bit.
It all works out in the end and is sweet.
I didn't read the Greek though.
Kayla, I loved her personality until after the deed gets done. Then I just wanted to shake her a little bit.
It all works out in the end and is sweet.
I didn't read the Greek though.
September 14, 2018
Love Susan Mallery, and loved The Girl of His Dreams.
3 1/2 for Playing by the Greeks Rules by Sarah Morgan.
3 1/2 for Playing by the Greeks Rules by Sarah Morgan.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews