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Players to Lovers #2
Daring You
Fact #1: I called off my engagement to an a-hole.
Fact #2: I probably shouldn’t hook up with my brother’s best friend in order to "heal."
Fact #3: I already have. A few times.
F—Screw the facts.
ASTOR
I came to New York to forget him.
But whether it was coincidence, bad luck, or fate being a cruel bitch, he came here, too.
Ben Donahue is a no good, annoying, hot-headed jerk I can’t seem to shake.
He’s also my brother’s best friend.
But I’m in the middle of the biggest case of my career. I don’t have time for Ben, and I don’t need him ruining my life...again.
Unfortunately, my heart would rather be the one to ruin me this time.
BEN
She thinks I only had her because of a dare in college. She couldn’t be more wrong.
Astor Hayes is forbidden to me. She’s my best friend’s twin sister, and I have a past to hide.
In the worst kind of way, I’m forced to enter Astor’s life again, and I let her hate me as I do it. Allow her to think I don’t want her.
It’s better than Astor knowing the truth behind why I left her that night.
Because If she ever figures it out, it won’t just be our hearts that are shattered.
DARING YOU is a slow burn, steamy, second chance, enemies-to-lovers romance with no cliffhanger.
Fact #2: I probably shouldn’t hook up with my brother’s best friend in order to "heal."
Fact #3: I already have. A few times.
F—Screw the facts.
ASTOR
I came to New York to forget him.
But whether it was coincidence, bad luck, or fate being a cruel bitch, he came here, too.
Ben Donahue is a no good, annoying, hot-headed jerk I can’t seem to shake.
He’s also my brother’s best friend.
But I’m in the middle of the biggest case of my career. I don’t have time for Ben, and I don’t need him ruining my life...again.
Unfortunately, my heart would rather be the one to ruin me this time.
BEN
She thinks I only had her because of a dare in college. She couldn’t be more wrong.
Astor Hayes is forbidden to me. She’s my best friend’s twin sister, and I have a past to hide.
In the worst kind of way, I’m forced to enter Astor’s life again, and I let her hate me as I do it. Allow her to think I don’t want her.
It’s better than Astor knowing the truth behind why I left her that night.
Because If she ever figures it out, it won’t just be our hearts that are shattered.
DARING YOU is a slow burn, steamy, second chance, enemies-to-lovers romance with no cliffhanger.
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About the author
Ketley Allison
88 books885 followersAuthor of Romantic Suspense, New Adult, and mature YA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 13, 2018
Hate to sex and back again.
Ben is a dick to Astor, in the past and the present. He’s completely unlikable.
Astor is cold because all the men she’s been with, including Ben total dicks to her.
Yet Astor gives Ben another go, even though he compares her unfavorably to the blonde that fell on his dick.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ben is a dick to Astor, in the past and the present. He’s completely unlikable.
Astor is cold because all the men she’s been with, including Ben total dicks to her.
Yet Astor gives Ben another go, even though he compares her unfavorably to the blonde that fell on his dick.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2018
When Astor and Ben are together sparks fly. Lust is never far from their minds, but secrets have them questioning their hearts. Daring You is a spicy tale of love lost, hope regained and hearts found. It wouldn't be romance without complications and Allison has them galore.
July 26, 2019
Great, Complicated Plot. A Compelling Read.
After Ben and Astor share a one-night stand in college, which was misunderstood by Astor as fulfilling a bet on Ben’s behalf, the two connect again six years later over a criminal trial to which Astor, now a lawyer, is assigned.
As can be imagined, Astor’s animosity towards Ben is driven by her perception of having been used back in college. Having said that, the two had intense chemistry back then, and continue to have it now, even while endlessly fighting and trying to one-up each other.
The boisterous and loving group of friends from the preceding book in this series, ‘Trusting You,’ provides the buffer and emollient between the two. One scene where Carter and Sophie console Astor in her apartment is truly genius, with the most hysterical dialogue in the book. You don’t want to miss that.
A fascinating, complicated, and heartbreaking plot make this a compelling read. Very well written and worth the time.
Why this is not a 5-Star review:
1) Astor’s anger at having been “used” in college is driven by her assumption that Ben slept with her in fulfillment of a bet, which isn’t true, and which he denies repeatedly. Never mentioned by either character is the fact that SHE TEXTED HIM to come to her dorm room, and she opened the door purposefully dressed in lingerie. Having had that happen to me in the past, I can assure the author a guy doesn’t show up to a scene like that not understanding the intention of the lady in question. Therefore, Astor’s multi-year rage and butt-hurt about the encounter simply comes across as illogical and self-centered. Diva-esque. Meaning, as a motivational driver, it doesn’t work.
2) The word selection in this book is a little off, which was not the case in ‘Trusting You.’ Indeed, in this book the word of the day is “fugue.” People were having a fugue here, in a state of fugue there, they were, frankly, fugue-ing everywhere.
3) It would be nice to read about a New Adult (NA), female character without the de rigueur label, “strong, independent woman.” In fact, it appears that any woman featured in any Romance written in the past five years has ALWAYS been a “strong, independent woman.” We learn how strong and independent Astor is by her actions and behavior throughout the book. By the end of the book, the reader can’t help but admire her strength and perseverance in working out all the difficulties they face. Constantly labeling every leading-lady with this tired, clichéd phase basically makes a mockery of their true character.
4) For a Romance to be romantic, the two main characters need to have a certain level of empathy, gentleness, and compassion present in their personalities. I’ve read two of this author’s books and, so far, none of her leading ladies seem to possess these qualities. A woman can be strong without being mean, and that simple realization seems to escape this author. Astor, up until the very end, just comes across and self-centered and mean. So much so, you’re wondering what the leading man sees in her. I’ve said it before in other reviews, and I’ll say it again. Astor’s the kind of lady most men would summarily divorce, or drop-off at the nearest bus station, whichever could be accomplished more quickly.
After Ben and Astor share a one-night stand in college, which was misunderstood by Astor as fulfilling a bet on Ben’s behalf, the two connect again six years later over a criminal trial to which Astor, now a lawyer, is assigned.
As can be imagined, Astor’s animosity towards Ben is driven by her perception of having been used back in college. Having said that, the two had intense chemistry back then, and continue to have it now, even while endlessly fighting and trying to one-up each other.
The boisterous and loving group of friends from the preceding book in this series, ‘Trusting You,’ provides the buffer and emollient between the two. One scene where Carter and Sophie console Astor in her apartment is truly genius, with the most hysterical dialogue in the book. You don’t want to miss that.
A fascinating, complicated, and heartbreaking plot make this a compelling read. Very well written and worth the time.
Why this is not a 5-Star review:
1) Astor’s anger at having been “used” in college is driven by her assumption that Ben slept with her in fulfillment of a bet, which isn’t true, and which he denies repeatedly. Never mentioned by either character is the fact that SHE TEXTED HIM to come to her dorm room, and she opened the door purposefully dressed in lingerie. Having had that happen to me in the past, I can assure the author a guy doesn’t show up to a scene like that not understanding the intention of the lady in question. Therefore, Astor’s multi-year rage and butt-hurt about the encounter simply comes across as illogical and self-centered. Diva-esque. Meaning, as a motivational driver, it doesn’t work.
2) The word selection in this book is a little off, which was not the case in ‘Trusting You.’ Indeed, in this book the word of the day is “fugue.” People were having a fugue here, in a state of fugue there, they were, frankly, fugue-ing everywhere.
3) It would be nice to read about a New Adult (NA), female character without the de rigueur label, “strong, independent woman.” In fact, it appears that any woman featured in any Romance written in the past five years has ALWAYS been a “strong, independent woman.” We learn how strong and independent Astor is by her actions and behavior throughout the book. By the end of the book, the reader can’t help but admire her strength and perseverance in working out all the difficulties they face. Constantly labeling every leading-lady with this tired, clichéd phase basically makes a mockery of their true character.
4) For a Romance to be romantic, the two main characters need to have a certain level of empathy, gentleness, and compassion present in their personalities. I’ve read two of this author’s books and, so far, none of her leading ladies seem to possess these qualities. A woman can be strong without being mean, and that simple realization seems to escape this author. Astor, up until the very end, just comes across and self-centered and mean. So much so, you’re wondering what the leading man sees in her. I’ve said it before in other reviews, and I’ll say it again. Astor’s the kind of lady most men would summarily divorce, or drop-off at the nearest bus station, whichever could be accomplished more quickly.
December 31, 2019
Reading the Players Box Set
Book 2
Big improvement from the first book, this story is a page turner. Ben is keeping secrets from everyone until he has to confess to his biggest nemesis, Astor, his bff Locke's cold hearted sister. I like the chemistry between Ben and Astor, whom I met in book 1. Yes there were some far-fetched plot points but hey it is fiction. My only complaint is the Author's inconsistency when it comes to remembering what her characters wear, say or do. Points given for the NY Football references - Go Jets! (LMAO)
Book 2
Big improvement from the first book, this story is a page turner. Ben is keeping secrets from everyone until he has to confess to his biggest nemesis, Astor, his bff Locke's cold hearted sister. I like the chemistry between Ben and Astor, whom I met in book 1. Yes there were some far-fetched plot points but hey it is fiction. My only complaint is the Author's inconsistency when it comes to remembering what her characters wear, say or do. Points given for the NY Football references - Go Jets! (LMAO)
November 22, 2018
She went there to forget him but he has followed her. She is not happy and he is her brother best friend. She has a big case to deal with and she could do without him there. Her heart does not help her. He did not sleep with her just for a rare but because he wanted her. He needs her to hate him which is better than the real reason if left her. Why did he leave? Will she find out? See if she will
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.
December 7, 2018
~ Being played ~
Ben Donahue six years ago was a love ’em and leave ’em type, the latest conquest being his best friend’s twin sister, Astor Hayes. Now he has gone pro football but still manages to be in her life. But when her law firm is handed a high-profile case, suddenly Ben keeps showing up at her door, warning her to drop the one aspect which will signal her out to make partner.
Killer instincts keep Astor on a roll, but digging up the little four year old victim may be just as deadly as it is pivotal to her case.
The story dredges up the characters’ pasts and some of the biggest secrets, along with relationship drama and suspense buildup around the infamous criminal case. Great first read from this author, and I want to read the first book in this series, too!
Ben Donahue six years ago was a love ’em and leave ’em type, the latest conquest being his best friend’s twin sister, Astor Hayes. Now he has gone pro football but still manages to be in her life. But when her law firm is handed a high-profile case, suddenly Ben keeps showing up at her door, warning her to drop the one aspect which will signal her out to make partner.
Killer instincts keep Astor on a roll, but digging up the little four year old victim may be just as deadly as it is pivotal to her case.
The story dredges up the characters’ pasts and some of the biggest secrets, along with relationship drama and suspense buildup around the infamous criminal case. Great first read from this author, and I want to read the first book in this series, too!
December 17, 2018
Really liked this story, plenty of history between Ben and Astor, as well as a few secrets on Ben's side. The attraction has always been there brewing on both sides, and just when things looked promising, it all falls apart. Pretty awkward were their interactions over the years since that one night, considering Ben is best friends with Astor's brother.
November 5, 2020
This was a good read. Astor and Ben had a thing for each other in college. Then years later things get complicated because of her job and his past. She goes back and forth with the love-hate stuff. Thankfully in the end everything works out.
May 25, 2019
Automatically on my Re-read shelf!
Wow! I now have a new author to read. This book was a Second Chance, Friends-to-enemies-to??? Sizzler and the author, who was new to me, is now someone I'm following.
I loved this book for the characters, storyline, and sightworthy sizzle. I won't recap the book (others have done a far better job than I could do), but I will tell you why it's a 5 star from me.
The characters are realistic, even though they are in several extraordinary situations throughout the book. The main characters (Ben and Astor), along with the supporting characters, are people you'd want in your corner...in your "friend posse." They support each other with does of truth and high expectations...and even when one of them falters, they can be counted on to be there. The book takes place over a number of years, from college to ~10 years later. The characters grow from crazy college kids who don't know how to handle challenging situations, to ones who don't back away from tough situations.
The storyline was far more than a superficial romance with a misunderstanding. There is suspense, an ex boyfriend that you'll hate, an unsolved mystery, workplace intrigue, and a pro sports angle with this story. It's everything I love and quite believable. The story had sizzle too! I loved Ben and Astor as a couple and was rooting for them throughout the book!
Lastly, the writing is first rate. This is a well thought out story with characters that fit the plot and subplots. The storyline is tight and the characters thoughts, dramas, feelings, and dialogue supports the story and is realistic. Well done, Ms. Allison!
There are other books in this series, so I'm going to spend the Christmas to New Year's holiday downloading them and binge reading while my family fends for themselves with cookies, snacks, and high fat foods! I highly recommend you download this book and do the same! You won't regret it!
I received an ARC. This is my honest review!
Wow! I now have a new author to read. This book was a Second Chance, Friends-to-enemies-to??? Sizzler and the author, who was new to me, is now someone I'm following.
I loved this book for the characters, storyline, and sightworthy sizzle. I won't recap the book (others have done a far better job than I could do), but I will tell you why it's a 5 star from me.
The characters are realistic, even though they are in several extraordinary situations throughout the book. The main characters (Ben and Astor), along with the supporting characters, are people you'd want in your corner...in your "friend posse." They support each other with does of truth and high expectations...and even when one of them falters, they can be counted on to be there. The book takes place over a number of years, from college to ~10 years later. The characters grow from crazy college kids who don't know how to handle challenging situations, to ones who don't back away from tough situations.
The storyline was far more than a superficial romance with a misunderstanding. There is suspense, an ex boyfriend that you'll hate, an unsolved mystery, workplace intrigue, and a pro sports angle with this story. It's everything I love and quite believable. The story had sizzle too! I loved Ben and Astor as a couple and was rooting for them throughout the book!
Lastly, the writing is first rate. This is a well thought out story with characters that fit the plot and subplots. The storyline is tight and the characters thoughts, dramas, feelings, and dialogue supports the story and is realistic. Well done, Ms. Allison!
There are other books in this series, so I'm going to spend the Christmas to New Year's holiday downloading them and binge reading while my family fends for themselves with cookies, snacks, and high fat foods! I highly recommend you download this book and do the same! You won't regret it!
I received an ARC. This is my honest review!
April 6, 2025
Also known as Dare by SK Allison.
This one was a doozy. Lockes twin sister Astor is a lawyer with high profile clients like drug cartel leader Chavez. Lockes bff is Ben. Ben and Locke and the boys play football in college and make dates with each other all the time. This dude dodge wants to be friends with them and wants in on dares. It he’s a druggie and gets kicked off the team.
One night he figures out that Ben is in witness protection and says he’s going to put him if Ben doesn’t do a dare, which is to sleep with Astor. He refuses. He ends up hooking up with Astor but dodge follows him and gets the RA to bang on her door looking for drugs and takes a pic of her wrapped in a sheet with Ben. It goes all over campus. But two days later dodge dies of an overdose so crisis averted. Ben decides to let Astor hate him instead of worrying about his safety.
Ben makes it to the NFL and six years later Astor is working at the law firm. And the. Another high profile case comes about that has mirderers who killed two people 20 years ago. There was one person that survived though, a 4 year old boy. Astor takes it upon herself to find out who the boy is. After tons of digging she follows some money from an inheritance and just before she finds out who it is, Ben reveals that it’s him. At first he doesn’t have any recollection of what happened to his parents. He was adopted and had a good life. But then he starts to remember and have flashes and in the end he remembers who killed his parents. He testifies on secret so he isn’t outed. Astors ex is also a lawyer and he thinks Astor set him up to be humiliated when her boss covers up who the witness is. In the end, Astor and Ben have loved each other for all this time and they get together HEA.
This one was a doozy. Lockes twin sister Astor is a lawyer with high profile clients like drug cartel leader Chavez. Lockes bff is Ben. Ben and Locke and the boys play football in college and make dates with each other all the time. This dude dodge wants to be friends with them and wants in on dares. It he’s a druggie and gets kicked off the team.
One night he figures out that Ben is in witness protection and says he’s going to put him if Ben doesn’t do a dare, which is to sleep with Astor. He refuses. He ends up hooking up with Astor but dodge follows him and gets the RA to bang on her door looking for drugs and takes a pic of her wrapped in a sheet with Ben. It goes all over campus. But two days later dodge dies of an overdose so crisis averted. Ben decides to let Astor hate him instead of worrying about his safety.
Ben makes it to the NFL and six years later Astor is working at the law firm. And the. Another high profile case comes about that has mirderers who killed two people 20 years ago. There was one person that survived though, a 4 year old boy. Astor takes it upon herself to find out who the boy is. After tons of digging she follows some money from an inheritance and just before she finds out who it is, Ben reveals that it’s him. At first he doesn’t have any recollection of what happened to his parents. He was adopted and had a good life. But then he starts to remember and have flashes and in the end he remembers who killed his parents. He testifies on secret so he isn’t outed. Astors ex is also a lawyer and he thinks Astor set him up to be humiliated when her boss covers up who the witness is. In the end, Astor and Ben have loved each other for all this time and they get together HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2018
Astor has been attracted to Ben since their college days almost a decade ago. Ben is attracted to Astor's strength and intelligence, as well as her caring heart. Neither is willing to take the first step toward something beyond friendship. Aston believes herself to be an ugly duckling, unworthy of the handsome and athletic Ben. Ben has his own secrets to keep and doesn't allow himself to get close to anyone. When Ben's life begins to blow up and he realizes he may never see Aston again, he stops fighting his attraction for her and they spend one amazing night together.
Not understanding Ben's reasons for abandoning her after their night together, Aston's self-esteem crumbles and her affection turns to something much darker with regards to Ben.
Years later, they continue to be thrown together since Aston's brother is Ben's best friend, but they can barely stand to be close to each other. When Ben's past catches up to him, however, Aston is the only one who can save him. As they work together to keep Ben's past where it belongs, old feelings reemerge.
Will these two find a way to heal from past hurts and find a way to move forward?
Ben and Astor are both damaged, untrusting souls, creating more issues for themselves than those that already exist. As they both learn to open themselves up to each other and their fierce, loving and protective natures come out of hiding, it is inevitable that this couple will reconnect. A pleasure to see the development of a new, mature and loving relationship grow between these two souls that tend to hide their true selves.
This is a wonderful follow up to the first book in the series, with appearances from characters first introduced in book 1. This is a stand-alone story, however. You don't need to read book 1 to enjoy book 2.
Fans of romance with strong female and male characters, as well as those that enjoy suspenseful romance will enjoy this book.
This is a voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
Not understanding Ben's reasons for abandoning her after their night together, Aston's self-esteem crumbles and her affection turns to something much darker with regards to Ben.
Years later, they continue to be thrown together since Aston's brother is Ben's best friend, but they can barely stand to be close to each other. When Ben's past catches up to him, however, Aston is the only one who can save him. As they work together to keep Ben's past where it belongs, old feelings reemerge.
Will these two find a way to heal from past hurts and find a way to move forward?
Ben and Astor are both damaged, untrusting souls, creating more issues for themselves than those that already exist. As they both learn to open themselves up to each other and their fierce, loving and protective natures come out of hiding, it is inevitable that this couple will reconnect. A pleasure to see the development of a new, mature and loving relationship grow between these two souls that tend to hide their true selves.
This is a wonderful follow up to the first book in the series, with appearances from characters first introduced in book 1. This is a stand-alone story, however. You don't need to read book 1 to enjoy book 2.
Fans of romance with strong female and male characters, as well as those that enjoy suspenseful romance will enjoy this book.
This is a voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
November 16, 2018
Amazing, heartwarming, intelligent romantic suspense!
This is an intricately complex second-chance romance that has so many layers I kept rereading chapters I'd already finished just to make sure I didn't miss anything. Astor and Ben had one beautiful night years ago in college, but it all blew up before either could figure out what it meant. For reasons that don't become clear until much later, Ben had to allow her to think the worst of him in order to protect her, and himself. But their connection - his best friend is her twin brother - keeps them orbiting each other so each must disguise their true feelings as hatred instead.
Then Astor's law firm gets the case that might blow Ben's whole world wide open. Ben has to walk an impossibly fine line between telling her enough to keep her safe without telling her nearly as much as she needs to know. The secrets, the past traumas, the inner torment, all of it comes out slowly and painfully as these two realize the truth about themselves, each other, their past, and their future.
It's a uniquely complex setup that is expertly executed to a satisfying yet realistic conclusion. This is a book that I'm still digesting and discussing, and I know it's one that will stay with me for a long time. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This is an intricately complex second-chance romance that has so many layers I kept rereading chapters I'd already finished just to make sure I didn't miss anything. Astor and Ben had one beautiful night years ago in college, but it all blew up before either could figure out what it meant. For reasons that don't become clear until much later, Ben had to allow her to think the worst of him in order to protect her, and himself. But their connection - his best friend is her twin brother - keeps them orbiting each other so each must disguise their true feelings as hatred instead.
Then Astor's law firm gets the case that might blow Ben's whole world wide open. Ben has to walk an impossibly fine line between telling her enough to keep her safe without telling her nearly as much as she needs to know. The secrets, the past traumas, the inner torment, all of it comes out slowly and painfully as these two realize the truth about themselves, each other, their past, and their future.
It's a uniquely complex setup that is expertly executed to a satisfying yet realistic conclusion. This is a book that I'm still digesting and discussing, and I know it's one that will stay with me for a long time. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
November 16, 2018
Astor's always had a huge crush on her brother's best friend, Ben. When she gets a chance to act on her feelings, she grabs it. Unfortunately, Ben disappeared soon after that and she was left with the completely inaccurate idea that it was all a dare. Cue the hate part of their love hate relationship.
When she and Ben come together thanks to her newest case, it just may be the second chance that they both want and deserve. But first, they'll have to make it through the case that takes a much darker turn than Astor ever expected.
Wow, Daring You was so much more than I expected. It's much more suspenseful and intriguing than the average brother's best friend, enemies to lovers romance that I'm used to. I love how well-rounded both Astor and Ben are. And the banter, the "hate" that is just masking the love? HOT! I haven't read any of the other books in this series, but I certainly plan to now!
ARC via Hidden Gems Books for an honest review.
Full review posted on Live Through Books Blog.
January 15, 2020
Second in a series of 4. Can be read as a standalone. Ben and Astor are fighting their attraction because of miscommunication. Plus, the whole best friend's little sister thing is going on.
Well edited.
Astor and Ben had a crush on each other in college. The other was unaware of the reciprocal crush. Ben has a huge secret - on that has him thinking he needs to leave. He goes to see Astor, she gets brave, they spend the night, as he's ready to leave everything goes wrong. Fast forward 6 years, they are still in each other's lives because of Astor's brother, Locke. Sister. Best friend. Astor still believes the worst, Ben doesn't try to set the record straight. A huge, 20+ year old case comes to the law firm that Astor works for. She sees it as an opportunity for a big break. Except the big break might lead to Ben's secret. And the secret? It could be life changing. Will Ben ever get Astor to see how he's always felt? Will Astor pursue her career or love? Will Ben's secret cause ripple effects or remain hidden?
This was such a good read. Ben's secret is so.... And for him to feel that Astor might choose her career over keeping his secret? Just heartbreaking. Astor's got her own hurts and has closed her heart in so many ways. Looking forward to Ash and Easton's stories. Enjoy!
Well edited.
Astor and Ben had a crush on each other in college. The other was unaware of the reciprocal crush. Ben has a huge secret - on that has him thinking he needs to leave. He goes to see Astor, she gets brave, they spend the night, as he's ready to leave everything goes wrong. Fast forward 6 years, they are still in each other's lives because of Astor's brother, Locke. Sister. Best friend. Astor still believes the worst, Ben doesn't try to set the record straight. A huge, 20+ year old case comes to the law firm that Astor works for. She sees it as an opportunity for a big break. Except the big break might lead to Ben's secret. And the secret? It could be life changing. Will Ben ever get Astor to see how he's always felt? Will Astor pursue her career or love? Will Ben's secret cause ripple effects or remain hidden?
This was such a good read. Ben's secret is so.... And for him to feel that Astor might choose her career over keeping his secret? Just heartbreaking. Astor's got her own hurts and has closed her heart in so many ways. Looking forward to Ash and Easton's stories. Enjoy!
November 26, 2018
I received this book with the understanding that I could leave a voluntary and honest review.
In this book we meet Astor Hayes and Ben Donahue. 6 years earlier Ben was forced into a no win situation. However the choices he makes that night will follow him for years to come. Now years later Astor is still in a downward pattern since that night. She may have the career that she worked so hard for but the fiance that is cheating on her is determined to destroy it all for her. Ben finds out the one thing he has been running from all these years if finally over. He wonders though now that it's done can he make up for the past or is it all to late. Can these two find a HEA in their life or will the past make everything they truly want disappear?
This is an amazing story that will show you that true love will set you free. It does have its ups and downs I really want to tell you about. However I don't want to ruin it for any other readers. I will say this book will have you on an emotional roller-coaster from the first word to the very end. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
In this book we meet Astor Hayes and Ben Donahue. 6 years earlier Ben was forced into a no win situation. However the choices he makes that night will follow him for years to come. Now years later Astor is still in a downward pattern since that night. She may have the career that she worked so hard for but the fiance that is cheating on her is determined to destroy it all for her. Ben finds out the one thing he has been running from all these years if finally over. He wonders though now that it's done can he make up for the past or is it all to late. Can these two find a HEA in their life or will the past make everything they truly want disappear?
This is an amazing story that will show you that true love will set you free. It does have its ups and downs I really want to tell you about. However I don't want to ruin it for any other readers. I will say this book will have you on an emotional roller-coaster from the first word to the very end. I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
November 4, 2018
Daring You, Players to Lovers Series, Book 2 by author Ketley Allison is a delicious dysfunctional version of FRIENDS as referenced by Ben, the NFL Pro, college friend of Ash, Easton, Locke, and nemesis to Astor (Locke's twin sister) who he has secretly loved (and humiliated, due to a dare, since college).
Astor is ending her engagement to a fellow attorney, Mike, at the same firm. He is a real slime-ball. She continues to sting from Ben's college dare and is always at odds with him.
Ben and Astor are thrown together when her firm receives a case. This case could force Ben to reveal a tightly held secret and if revealed threaten family and friends. Astor is placed in the moral dilemma of what to do with the information. Should she? Read and find out!
I definitely liked this story due to the unique storyline. Because I was drawn into this story so completely, I've downloaded book one which is about Locke. The Epilogue gives a hint that Book Three will be about Ash and Sophia...and what a hint we are left with!!!
I am volunteering to leave a review of this ARC book.
Astor is ending her engagement to a fellow attorney, Mike, at the same firm. He is a real slime-ball. She continues to sting from Ben's college dare and is always at odds with him.
Ben and Astor are thrown together when her firm receives a case. This case could force Ben to reveal a tightly held secret and if revealed threaten family and friends. Astor is placed in the moral dilemma of what to do with the information. Should she? Read and find out!
I definitely liked this story due to the unique storyline. Because I was drawn into this story so completely, I've downloaded book one which is about Locke. The Epilogue gives a hint that Book Three will be about Ash and Sophia...and what a hint we are left with!!!
I am volunteering to leave a review of this ARC book.
November 28, 2018
3.5 stars
Both characters in this book have issues. A big misunderstanding occurred when they were in college. Astor never fully recovered and she became a shark lawyer. She gives the impression that she is career driven and cold hearted. But she is not. She uses that as a protective veneer. Ben is a NFL star with a major secret. If things get out lives can be lost. For me, Astor is hard to like. I understand her being the way she is due to her background, but I still didn't like her very much until well past the halfway point. Ben was easier to like. Keeping his secret was a matter of life or death. He probably could have handled his past with Astor a lot better but they were young. Astor seemed to expect him to be a mind reader and do the opposite of what she asked. The story itself was interesting. I liked the friends. they are interesting and will make for good stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both characters in this book have issues. A big misunderstanding occurred when they were in college. Astor never fully recovered and she became a shark lawyer. She gives the impression that she is career driven and cold hearted. But she is not. She uses that as a protective veneer. Ben is a NFL star with a major secret. If things get out lives can be lost. For me, Astor is hard to like. I understand her being the way she is due to her background, but I still didn't like her very much until well past the halfway point. Ben was easier to like. Keeping his secret was a matter of life or death. He probably could have handled his past with Astor a lot better but they were young. Astor seemed to expect him to be a mind reader and do the opposite of what she asked. The story itself was interesting. I liked the friends. they are interesting and will make for good stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2023
I enjoy her writing, I do but she physically diminishes her fmc
I enjoy the story and the characters in the suspense, but I really struggle with Allison‘s need to create such flawed female characters. And I mean more so physically. She could’ve been thin with no boobs OK she could’ve had some scarring from some thing OK but this author went above and beyond to create a female main character that literally no one would be attracted to, and I just don’t understand it. Lots of authors would at least build her up and say how, the scarring was gone or she was supermodel tall or turned her traits into something beautiful, but all she did was lay them out like she was unattractive, and then somehow ends up with an NFL player. I gave it three stars, because she never ever acknowledge that the main character might be beautiful despite some minor things. All she did say she’s ugly. She’s actually ugly she’s ugly. Oh, here’s your NFL sweetheart.
I enjoy the story and the characters in the suspense, but I really struggle with Allison‘s need to create such flawed female characters. And I mean more so physically. She could’ve been thin with no boobs OK she could’ve had some scarring from some thing OK but this author went above and beyond to create a female main character that literally no one would be attracted to, and I just don’t understand it. Lots of authors would at least build her up and say how, the scarring was gone or she was supermodel tall or turned her traits into something beautiful, but all she did was lay them out like she was unattractive, and then somehow ends up with an NFL player. I gave it three stars, because she never ever acknowledge that the main character might be beautiful despite some minor things. All she did say she’s ugly. She’s actually ugly she’s ugly. Oh, here’s your NFL sweetheart.
February 17, 2025
I enjoyed the uniqueness of this plot. Never read anything like it before.
That being said, I'm not a big fan of Astor. She's this bad ass lawyer with a piece of shit fiancé that she let's walk all over her, she holds onto perceived hurts for way too long - not giving people the chance to change, and truly contemplates selling out an innocent child. Plus, does awesome lawyer lady really have zero control over her libido? You don't trust him! Stand your ground!
Ben - yes, he's a douche canoe and makes poor choices, but the author is successful in winning sympathy for him. You can feel his angst oozing off the page. He can be a total dick to Astor, but he's generally keeping the distance that she asked for. She'd never believed the truth from him anyway, so why try? But when he does try.. he's so dang golden retriever it's not even funny.
That being said, I'm not a big fan of Astor. She's this bad ass lawyer with a piece of shit fiancé that she let's walk all over her, she holds onto perceived hurts for way too long - not giving people the chance to change, and truly contemplates selling out an innocent child. Plus, does awesome lawyer lady really have zero control over her libido? You don't trust him! Stand your ground!
Ben - yes, he's a douche canoe and makes poor choices, but the author is successful in winning sympathy for him. You can feel his angst oozing off the page. He can be a total dick to Astor, but he's generally keeping the distance that she asked for. She'd never believed the truth from him anyway, so why try? But when he does try.. he's so dang golden retriever it's not even funny.
November 13, 2018
This was a good read. Lots of likeable characters and a gripping story. Astor and Ben have a love hate relationship- deep down they have feelings for each other but a misunderstanding when they were younger tore them apart. The backwards and forwards banter between them was amusing - especially when they were at her brothers for dinner! They kinda get thrown together when she is dealing with a case he is involved in and struggle against their attraction for each other. They had good chemistry. The mystery surrounding his childhood and what’s going to play out with that, as well as when are they going to finally forgive each other and get together keep the pages turning.
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.
November 17, 2018
Amazing. I loved every page! Astor is very attracted to her brothers friend Ben. He is just as attracted to her too but he has secrets he cannot share with anyone. Astor has insecurities and after a humiliatong encounter and misunderstanding, Astor is devastated. Now years later they are thrown into each other lives again. Astor is an attorney who is working to defend his parents killers. And Astor has just dumped her cheating fiancé and Ben is facing the fact his identity is at risk. One thing for sure is that the chemistry is still there. Can Ben protect the only woman he has ever loved and finally see justice for his parents? Beautiful second chance romance that will keep you hooked until the last page!!!
November 14, 2018
An Awesome read and great add to the series
Ben has been hiding a secret from everyone. One that has already ruined the one night he had with Astor, his best friend's sister who has been his obsession for years. Because of protecting his secret she believes that one amazing time they were together 6 years ago was only part of a stupid dare. Now, that the secret is about to become national news, only Astor can help him keep it. If only she can put the past behind them and forgive him for what she thinks he did. An Awesome read and great add to the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ben has been hiding a secret from everyone. One that has already ruined the one night he had with Astor, his best friend's sister who has been his obsession for years. Because of protecting his secret she believes that one amazing time they were together 6 years ago was only part of a stupid dare. Now, that the secret is about to become national news, only Astor can help him keep it. If only she can put the past behind them and forgive him for what she thinks he did. An Awesome read and great add to the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 18, 2018
Excellent contemporary romantic suspense. Astor is an attorney trying to fast track to junior partner. Ben is a professional football player. He and Astor have a history from college that they kept from their friends. Unfortunately, it ended badly and Ben had other traumatic things from childhood to deal with as well as playing in the NFL. Ms. Allison did a fantastic job developing the main characters but also the secondary ones. The story gets intense at times so that the reader can’t be sure of the final outcome. I received a complementary copy via Hidden Gems but chose to write a review. I look forward to reading future books by this author.
November 28, 2018
Ben and Astor hook up in college and because of a secret Ben has, it falls apart the same night. But Ben is best friends with Astor's brother so they continue to run into each other over the years. Skip to present day and Astor is a successful lawyer. Ben is a successful NFL player. Both living in the same city. When Ben's secret starts to come to the surface, Astor gets sucked in unknowingly and Ben has to try to protect her. Very interesting story line. Characters are pretty developed but I found Astor's history to be cloudy. Lots of hot sex, angsty feelings and jumbled circumstances. Writing was easy to follow. Story ends in an HEA.
November 13, 2018
A FABULOUS BROKEN DARE!❤
An incredible very well written unique read that grabs you right from the start demanding every bit of your attention never loosening the hold it has on you through the gripping suspense filled twists that take you to the edge and keeps you there right to the very end! A myriad of emotions, intense, fierce, edgy, shocking, speechless, exciting, fun, entertaining, chaotic, sad, heart-wrenching, passion fueled sexy hot chemistry and incredible page turning twists that make it impossible to put down! A fantastic must read!
An incredible very well written unique read that grabs you right from the start demanding every bit of your attention never loosening the hold it has on you through the gripping suspense filled twists that take you to the edge and keeps you there right to the very end! A myriad of emotions, intense, fierce, edgy, shocking, speechless, exciting, fun, entertaining, chaotic, sad, heart-wrenching, passion fueled sexy hot chemistry and incredible page turning twists that make it impossible to put down! A fantastic must read!
November 16, 2018
Ben is a angsty mess. He knows he should not want his best friends twin sister but he does. After a night together Astor thinks it all happened due to a dare. For 6 years she carries this hate towards Ben with her and just when she is ready to blow his world apart more is revealed. This was a very emotional read with many twists and turns. It was a great suspenseful romance very worth reading. This is the first time I have read something by this author and I look forward to reading more.
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.
May 17, 2025
greet story, but…
Love these characters and getting their backstory as they appear in many of the intertwined and related books. I don’t think the office/work timeline and actions of Astor quite line up with what is detailed in the other books set in this world and that is my only complaint. As a stand alone this book is wonderful. As another part of the bigger picture, also wonderful. Highly recommend, but would like to see the author review the timelines across the roof for accuracy.
Love these characters and getting their backstory as they appear in many of the intertwined and related books. I don’t think the office/work timeline and actions of Astor quite line up with what is detailed in the other books set in this world and that is my only complaint. As a stand alone this book is wonderful. As another part of the bigger picture, also wonderful. Highly recommend, but would like to see the author review the timelines across the roof for accuracy.
November 15, 2018
This is a well written book with a gripping story line. The author brings strong well developed characters in Astor and Ben , gives them a hot chemistry and a love / hate relationship. She brings suspense,twists,turns and tons of emotions and keeps you glued to the pages right to the end. I loved and highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
November 15, 2018
Astor and Ben have History. She hates him and he can’t even explain why he hurt her. If he does his life would be over. Can she Put her feelings aside and see how much he really loves her? And that he did what he did to protect her? This was a great addition to this series and I definitely look forward to reading the next book in this series.
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.
November 15, 2018
Astor and Ben have been friends since college and are both attracted to each other but unwilling to tell the other incase they ruin their friendship. When they finally spent the night together Ben leaves without an explanation. Years later they meet again but can the past be put behind them so that they can have a future together
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.
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