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The Cheat
Although Lucy hates Riley Jamison's personality, she loves how he looks, which is why she films him every night through her bedroom window. She watches him undress, knowing he's teasing her, his smile all but telling her she can look but not touch. Yet she wants to touch more than anything, so when he comes to her for help, needing her to do his assignments, Lucy sees a way she can finally get what she wants.
Riley knows Peeping Lucy has a crush on him, all of the school does, and he's never cared until it can get him what he needs. He's desperate to win a hockey scholarship, taking him one step closer to pulling him and his dad out of poverty. And he's willing to do anything for it, even if it means he has to sell his body - and his soul, cheating on everything he believes in.
Like a TV series, PLAYED is broken up into episodes. Each episode will be between 20,000 to 27,000 words long. A new episode will be published every 2-3 weeks until the season has ended.
Riley knows Peeping Lucy has a crush on him, all of the school does, and he's never cared until it can get him what he needs. He's desperate to win a hockey scholarship, taking him one step closer to pulling him and his dad out of poverty. And he's willing to do anything for it, even if it means he has to sell his body - and his soul, cheating on everything he believes in.
Like a TV series, PLAYED is broken up into episodes. Each episode will be between 20,000 to 27,000 words long. A new episode will be published every 2-3 weeks until the season has ended.
Unknown Binding
Published February 14, 2020
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82 people want to read
About the author
Marita A. Hansen
100 books853 followersSOME FACTS ABOUT ME:
I'm a New Zealander from Auckland, with dual citizenship (NZ and Croatia). I've also lived in Kerikeri, Singapore and Papua New Guinea.
CAREER PATH: I started off as a Graphic Designer, then went to Auckland University, where I got a BA degree in Art History and Italian Studies and a post-graduate Honors degree in Art History. I worked in the Art History field, then became a full-time artist, doing commissions. I eventually lost all of my senses and gave it up to be a self-published writer, publishing my first book in 2011. Though, earlier in 2023 I returned to art, shelving being a writer since book pirates made it impossible to earn a living from my work, excessively pirating my books. They basically broke my spirit. However, a very nice reader spurred me on to try again, so I'm attempting to revive my writing career.
BAD HABITS: I'm a major procrastinator, I stay up way too late, and I get distracted far too easily unless it's doing something I love. My mind never stops racing, can't turn ADHD off.
SPORTS: As a teenager my favourite sports were karate, badminton, and running. I also did unarmed combat and played in a touch rugby team (my gym teacher made me do the last one!) As an adult, I've couched soccer and have completed two marathons, numerous half-marathons and one 30K run, though I stick to the gym now, hanging up my running shoes.
STATUS: Married to my high school sweetheart (which he hates me calling him). We have two kids.
Author Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Marita-A-Han...
I'm a New Zealander from Auckland, with dual citizenship (NZ and Croatia). I've also lived in Kerikeri, Singapore and Papua New Guinea.
CAREER PATH: I started off as a Graphic Designer, then went to Auckland University, where I got a BA degree in Art History and Italian Studies and a post-graduate Honors degree in Art History. I worked in the Art History field, then became a full-time artist, doing commissions. I eventually lost all of my senses and gave it up to be a self-published writer, publishing my first book in 2011. Though, earlier in 2023 I returned to art, shelving being a writer since book pirates made it impossible to earn a living from my work, excessively pirating my books. They basically broke my spirit. However, a very nice reader spurred me on to try again, so I'm attempting to revive my writing career.
BAD HABITS: I'm a major procrastinator, I stay up way too late, and I get distracted far too easily unless it's doing something I love. My mind never stops racing, can't turn ADHD off.
SPORTS: As a teenager my favourite sports were karate, badminton, and running. I also did unarmed combat and played in a touch rugby team (my gym teacher made me do the last one!) As an adult, I've couched soccer and have completed two marathons, numerous half-marathons and one 30K run, though I stick to the gym now, hanging up my running shoes.
STATUS: Married to my high school sweetheart (which he hates me calling him). We have two kids.
Author Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Marita-A-Han...
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January 29, 2020THE CHEAT is now available on NETGALLEY for reviewers. If you're a reviewer and your request gets accepted and you choose the mobi file, let me know if it's downloading as there was a prior issue with it. It appears to be fixed now, but I still would like to doublecheck. Thanks! https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/boo...
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This is the first episode of a TV-like serial set in Minnesota, US. THE CHEERLEADER will be the 2nd episode, followed by THE COP, THE COACH and so forth. It's Dark NA, the same genre as Euphoria, Skins, etc.
Topics are: enemies to lovers, ice hockey, high school drama/NA, jocks, cheerleaders, teen issues, blackmail, skeletons in the closet.
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This is the first episode of a TV-like serial set in Minnesota, US. THE CHEERLEADER will be the 2nd episode, followed by THE COP, THE COACH and so forth. It's Dark NA, the same genre as Euphoria, Skins, etc.
Topics are: enemies to lovers, ice hockey, high school drama/NA, jocks, cheerleaders, teen issues, blackmail, skeletons in the closet.
February 4, 2020
This is the most ridiculous thing I've ever read.
January 30, 2020
Riley and Lucy's story. Lucy and Riley live next each other and she watches him undress everyday since he caught her ages ago.
They study in the same school but Riley is a hockey player and Lucy is the fat and the nerdy one has a big crush on him. Riley is not that smart so he demandes that Lucy does his assigments which I clap her because the girl actually has a backbone even though she suffers a lot about that.
I kinda despise Riley yet has a shit life still it was not cool the way he treated Lucy for the past few years.
Its a hate and love story. There is some funning parts and wwas waiting for Brooke to be put on her place which will totally happening in the next books.
Its a short story but so much happenned that I don't want to spoil. Go and read it.
They study in the same school but Riley is a hockey player and Lucy is the fat and the nerdy one has a big crush on him. Riley is not that smart so he demandes that Lucy does his assigments which I clap her because the girl actually has a backbone even though she suffers a lot about that.
I kinda despise Riley yet has a shit life still it was not cool the way he treated Lucy for the past few years.
Its a hate and love story. There is some funning parts and wwas waiting for Brooke to be put on her place which will totally happening in the next books.
Its a short story but so much happenned that I don't want to spoil. Go and read it.
February 14, 2020
Forgot I never wrote a review for this. Hard pass. Nope. No thanks. My thought when finishing was, “what in the fuck did I just read?”
I’m all for taboo, crossing the line romance books. I loved Credence. But this was just fucking... weird. And creepy. And fat shames. And like...black mailing in a weird way?? Kind of reminds me of the concept of Sarah Burgess is a Loser. That movie just gave me the “ick”. As did this book.
I was honestly disappointed cause when I read the synopsis I was like, "oh yes I’m going to like this" and when I read it I was like ?????? No. I thought it’d be all cute and flirty and neighbor next door oh hehe I peep at you and it was just so AWKWARD. I'm giving it a 1 star because of the cover.
*Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book*
I’m all for taboo, crossing the line romance books. I loved Credence. But this was just fucking... weird. And creepy. And fat shames. And like...black mailing in a weird way?? Kind of reminds me of the concept of Sarah Burgess is a Loser. That movie just gave me the “ick”. As did this book.
I was honestly disappointed cause when I read the synopsis I was like, "oh yes I’m going to like this" and when I read it I was like ?????? No. I thought it’d be all cute and flirty and neighbor next door oh hehe I peep at you and it was just so AWKWARD. I'm giving it a 1 star because of the cover.
*Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book*
February 8, 2020
I’m depth review to come- but honestly, what did I just read?
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I am super confused about what I read just now.
First off, I am aware this is part of an ongoing series that is supposed to release every two weeks. So there is missing story here. I have acknowledged this and it plays no bearing in my review.
With that being said, where is the story? I feel like there was a lack of information given that wasn't based on stalking (being a peeper). It is totally fine he since he is okay with it, but then she extorts him and he cheats because he is unhappy with his current relationship. Then they have sex and she decides she is in love with him... even though he ignores her and is still with his girlfriend. That "summary" is the extent of the book. There is no development between the characters that make you want a real relationship between them. You don't connect with either of them because they have zero reasons or excuses for their behavior. Justification of these types of situations are difficult to give in the first place, but there is zero discourse within the story that give the impression the next ones are worth reading.
I received an eARC from Netgalley (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.
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I am super confused about what I read just now.
First off, I am aware this is part of an ongoing series that is supposed to release every two weeks. So there is missing story here. I have acknowledged this and it plays no bearing in my review.
With that being said, where is the story? I feel like there was a lack of information given that wasn't based on stalking (being a peeper). It is totally fine he since he is okay with it, but then she extorts him and he cheats because he is unhappy with his current relationship. Then they have sex and she decides she is in love with him... even though he ignores her and is still with his girlfriend. That "summary" is the extent of the book. There is no development between the characters that make you want a real relationship between them. You don't connect with either of them because they have zero reasons or excuses for their behavior. Justification of these types of situations are difficult to give in the first place, but there is zero discourse within the story that give the impression the next ones are worth reading.
I received an eARC from Netgalley (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2020
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The blurb tagged this as episodic, resembling teen TV series like Euphoria. And, yes, just about every teen trope out there can be found in this first episode. Lucy is a Peeping Tom. Riley, the school's most sought after jock - and, coincidentally, her neighbor - has broadcast this tidbit all through high school, effectively killing Lucy's reputation and making her life absolute hell.
And yet, Lucy, being the doormat that she is, still watches him through her window and lusts after this totally spineless jock. Although the author wants us to feel sorry for Lucy, I have to take a hard pass. Lucy is the author of her own misfortunes here. I actually cringed during the sex scene at the end. (Some writers seem to enjoy making us readers squirm!)
Riley inexplicably starts to have the hots for Lucy, whom he has sex with in exchange for her doing his math and English homework. His actual girlfriend is the coach's daughter and she threatens to have Riley tossed off the hockey team if he cheats on her or tries to drop her. Boohoo! Seriously? Would the coach really toss their only chance at a championship off the team because his daughter tells him to? Give me a break! The writing is so up and down and often contradictory.
These flimsy plot lines couldn't hold my interest during the first episode, so I doubt I will be checking out the remaining installments. I rate this a 2.75 out of 5.
The blurb tagged this as episodic, resembling teen TV series like Euphoria. And, yes, just about every teen trope out there can be found in this first episode. Lucy is a Peeping Tom. Riley, the school's most sought after jock - and, coincidentally, her neighbor - has broadcast this tidbit all through high school, effectively killing Lucy's reputation and making her life absolute hell.
And yet, Lucy, being the doormat that she is, still watches him through her window and lusts after this totally spineless jock. Although the author wants us to feel sorry for Lucy, I have to take a hard pass. Lucy is the author of her own misfortunes here. I actually cringed during the sex scene at the end. (Some writers seem to enjoy making us readers squirm!)
Riley inexplicably starts to have the hots for Lucy, whom he has sex with in exchange for her doing his math and English homework. His actual girlfriend is the coach's daughter and she threatens to have Riley tossed off the hockey team if he cheats on her or tries to drop her. Boohoo! Seriously? Would the coach really toss their only chance at a championship off the team because his daughter tells him to? Give me a break! The writing is so up and down and often contradictory.
These flimsy plot lines couldn't hold my interest during the first episode, so I doubt I will be checking out the remaining installments. I rate this a 2.75 out of 5.
February 3, 2020
I don’t know... I find this book to be a little uncomfortable to read...
April 2, 2020
***I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review***
I’m not entirely sure what I just read. First, this book isn’t an entire book. It is an episode and therefore VERY short. But I knew that in the beginning. Turns out I don't like this format though. I think this is a mix between 2 and 3 stars....
Some parts of this I liked and there was some potential in it, but the rest was… weird. I mean technically an unpopular kid being able to demand everything they want from one of the popular kids… that’s pretty cool, but there would’ve been so many better ways to get some kind of revenge and honestly I would’ve preferred a revenge story over this shy love sick girl that just wanted to popular guy to kiss her. I mean, I was cringing a lot during this short read. And somehow making another person strip for you and kiss you even though they don’t want to.. that is just wrong. And I didn’t like the fact that Riley all of a sudden was totally into Lucy and still treated her ugly in school. It was just… weird… and I really don’t know what to think of this story. It did give me inspiration for a revenge short story though. So I might just sit down and write a bit when I have some spare time. :D
I’m not entirely sure what I just read. First, this book isn’t an entire book. It is an episode and therefore VERY short. But I knew that in the beginning. Turns out I don't like this format though. I think this is a mix between 2 and 3 stars....
Some parts of this I liked and there was some potential in it, but the rest was… weird. I mean technically an unpopular kid being able to demand everything they want from one of the popular kids… that’s pretty cool, but there would’ve been so many better ways to get some kind of revenge and honestly I would’ve preferred a revenge story over this shy love sick girl that just wanted to popular guy to kiss her. I mean, I was cringing a lot during this short read. And somehow making another person strip for you and kiss you even though they don’t want to.. that is just wrong. And I didn’t like the fact that Riley all of a sudden was totally into Lucy and still treated her ugly in school. It was just… weird… and I really don’t know what to think of this story. It did give me inspiration for a revenge short story though. So I might just sit down and write a bit when I have some spare time. :D
February 2, 2020
First off I want to thank @netgalley, @maritahansen for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
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What a perfect way to start the month. This was a hot, steamy, bully, sport romance and I adored every second of it.
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The story was told from Lucy the fat nerd and Riley the hot hockey star. Their relationship grows in a very intense manner but yet it stays believable. The characters were flawed, imperfect and easily relatable. It is a shorter book but this series will be done as episodes one will release every few weeks, I really adore the concept. This book was definitely intensely steamy, emotional and hopeful. I cannot wait to learn more about each character through the other books.
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The ending left me on a cliffhanger and I need more. If you're a fan of sexy bully romances definitely do not hesitate to give this book a try.
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What a perfect way to start the month. This was a hot, steamy, bully, sport romance and I adored every second of it.
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The story was told from Lucy the fat nerd and Riley the hot hockey star. Their relationship grows in a very intense manner but yet it stays believable. The characters were flawed, imperfect and easily relatable. It is a shorter book but this series will be done as episodes one will release every few weeks, I really adore the concept. This book was definitely intensely steamy, emotional and hopeful. I cannot wait to learn more about each character through the other books.
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The ending left me on a cliffhanger and I need more. If you're a fan of sexy bully romances definitely do not hesitate to give this book a try.
November 16, 2019
I had the privilege of being a beta reader of this story and what I can tell others is: buy your copy as soon as it comes out.
Marita has created what for me is a rather innovative plot: Lucy has peeped from her window at her neighbor Riley. He is the hockey star who has a obnoxious girlfriend who is a cheerleader and has threatened him. Riley has unknowingly been enjoying the situation and undressing for Lucy. At first it reminded me of the Taylor Swift video, but wow is much more.
At one point, Lucy has the opportunity to have Riley in her room and ask him for a private show. I love the bravery of this girl. I love Riley's personality, his feelings, his internal debate for the "infidelity" he commits.
In conclusion: a quite unique plot, with some very complex, interesting and intense characters and some sexy scenes that I want to read more about.
Gime more please
Marita has created what for me is a rather innovative plot: Lucy has peeped from her window at her neighbor Riley. He is the hockey star who has a obnoxious girlfriend who is a cheerleader and has threatened him. Riley has unknowingly been enjoying the situation and undressing for Lucy. At first it reminded me of the Taylor Swift video, but wow is much more.
At one point, Lucy has the opportunity to have Riley in her room and ask him for a private show. I love the bravery of this girl. I love Riley's personality, his feelings, his internal debate for the "infidelity" he commits.
In conclusion: a quite unique plot, with some very complex, interesting and intense characters and some sexy scenes that I want to read more about.
Gime more please
February 11, 2020
This was not what I was expecting. The main character, Riley, is nothing but a huge bully as are all of his friends and honestly, Lucy is pretty shallow too. There is also a weird scene with Lucy's mom. I didn't see the connection between the two at all other than lust.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
February 14, 2020
Lucy's lust-fueled addiction to watching her hot neighbour Riley strip in his bedroom window has earned her stalker status at their high school and being constantly harassed. He's known she watches him but it's not until he needs help to pull his grades up to stay on the hockey team that he's willing to do anything, and that's when things change. Not liking Riley at the beginning seems unavoidable but unlike some Lucy wasn't a favourite either. Though bullied she chooses an unusual method of payment and quickly gets into more awkward situations than she expected. Riley turns out to be a beautiful misunderstanding who is constantly being used. Though I wasn't aware that this was a high school story I was surprised at how much I got into it. Looking forward to the the next part to see how screwed things will get.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley for my honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley for my honest review.
February 5, 2020
Alright well.. I’ll go point by point.
- I liked the plot, in a way it was quite funny with all the ‘I need you to do this for me’s’ and ‘name your price’s’. So in a tricky way, all those bargaining was quite fun and very well embedded in the plot and also the characters.
- I liked the backbone Lucy has. Despite the bribes, Riley has offered, she even made her own counter offer and I found it in a way admirable, despite the fact that she has her own very obvious flaws. All the filming etc does not make her shine in the readers’ eyes obviously.
- Riley.. well he is an asshole and he knows that too, and he is good at playing the high school game. He is arrogant, popular hockey playing asshole. Merely humanized by his dad’s condition. There is not much to say about him, he is just playing the game, like everyone else and he is in no better condition than a Lucy if you ask me. And he is no worse than Lucy, either. As he says, he is trapped.
- I think Brooke is the very crux of the whole story. If it wasn’t for her, Riley might not even have found Lucy attractive perhaps . You know ‘forbidden fruit’ and all.. And so I believe, Brooke’s very presence makes the story all the more exciting for the reader. Though I admit that side of the story is hardly very realistic, but what can I say.. It very much serves a purpose.
- I also found the parts of high school scenes quite good. As a reader who usually enjoys some classic high school drama myself, I believe it was strong.
- I have no negative comment on the characters, they were quite strong etc. their growths are also appropriate. Perhaps maybe the weird sexual part about Lucy’s mother.. but it’s not very relevant in the story, so.. it doesn’t matter much.
- The ending is abrupt. There is no other explanation for that. I can’t imagine anyone saying otherwise. There really is no hint as to what might or might not happen afterwards. But yeah, I have my ideas about what might possibly happen next in the story.
- But it is very well promising. While it wasn’t in any way strong enough to leave me speechless and breathless at the end, Most likely the story is basically incomplete, which I’m sure the authors has her reasons for. It was still very much enjoyable. The smutty erotic scenes were good..
I would like to read the rest of the series. I enjoyed it a lot. I believe as a whole the other books in the series will very well be feeding each other and make the series stronger.
And would like to recommend it to those who like smut, high school drama, some adult scenes and some playful plots..
Thanks for the ARC copy provided from NetGalley for this honest review!
- I liked the plot, in a way it was quite funny with all the ‘I need you to do this for me’s’ and ‘name your price’s’. So in a tricky way, all those bargaining was quite fun and very well embedded in the plot and also the characters.
- I liked the backbone Lucy has. Despite the bribes, Riley has offered, she even made her own counter offer and I found it in a way admirable, despite the fact that she has her own very obvious flaws. All the filming etc does not make her shine in the readers’ eyes obviously.
- Riley.. well he is an asshole and he knows that too, and he is good at playing the high school game. He is arrogant, popular hockey playing asshole. Merely humanized by his dad’s condition. There is not much to say about him, he is just playing the game, like everyone else and he is in no better condition than a Lucy if you ask me. And he is no worse than Lucy, either. As he says, he is trapped.
- I think Brooke is the very crux of the whole story. If it wasn’t for her, Riley might not even have found Lucy attractive perhaps . You know ‘forbidden fruit’ and all.. And so I believe, Brooke’s very presence makes the story all the more exciting for the reader. Though I admit that side of the story is hardly very realistic, but what can I say.. It very much serves a purpose.
- I also found the parts of high school scenes quite good. As a reader who usually enjoys some classic high school drama myself, I believe it was strong.
- I have no negative comment on the characters, they were quite strong etc. their growths are also appropriate. Perhaps maybe the weird sexual part about Lucy’s mother.. but it’s not very relevant in the story, so.. it doesn’t matter much.
- The ending is abrupt. There is no other explanation for that. I can’t imagine anyone saying otherwise. There really is no hint as to what might or might not happen afterwards. But yeah, I have my ideas about what might possibly happen next in the story.
- But it is very well promising. While it wasn’t in any way strong enough to leave me speechless and breathless at the end, Most likely the story is basically incomplete, which I’m sure the authors has her reasons for. It was still very much enjoyable. The smutty erotic scenes were good..
I would like to read the rest of the series. I enjoyed it a lot. I believe as a whole the other books in the series will very well be feeding each other and make the series stronger.
And would like to recommend it to those who like smut, high school drama, some adult scenes and some playful plots..
Thanks for the ARC copy provided from NetGalley for this honest review!
February 10, 2020
3.75 stars
The Cheat is the first "episode" in the Played series where the author wants to publish a new "episode" every few weeks to "air" like a TV show. While the title is typically not a sought-after topic for my reading the premise of the series really intrigued me.
Riley is the typical highschool hot hockey jock with less than desirable academic acumen. Lucy the typical high school nerd with a huge crush on her hot neighbor. Ever since Riley moved next door, Lucy has been mesmerized by the daily strip-tease he does at his window each night. Riley knows Lucy watches him and he's even started the Peeping Lucy moniker for her at school. Lucy knows she's being a creeper but she and her camera just can't help it.
Oy, the angst in here. I felt transported back to high school with all the drama of daily life. Bullies, clicks, nicknames, playboys, fake people, fake eyelashes... Ick.
I liked Lucy, she was unpopular but she had a backbone and stood up for herself when Riley told her to do his work for him. (Not so much with the mean girls but, what can ya do) But, you can also feel the youthful innocence coming off her and you kinda wanna cringe because you know that car crash (metaphorical) is coming. Riley, oh Riley. He's in a pickle but he kinda knowingly put himself there. It's a hard hit to the ego when you have to face what you sow. He's just getting railroaded all over the place. You feel bad for him but he's also a jerk but... ugh... and then what he's doing with/to Lucy. (Momma's got her eye on you... )
My one comment... sex... now this is my Mom/doctor side coming out...yeah, SAFETY should have been addressed, and this may be a plot device for later... BUT.... ugh, yeah, safety. Yes, it is crazy how morals and standards shift when you are young and in the face of something you really, really want. And, standards can change in the heat of the moment... but all the condoms, please!
The episode what short but I'm invested now, and I absolutely want to know what's going on with the cheerleader girlfriend and where Riley and Lucy go from where they left off.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.*
The Cheat is the first "episode" in the Played series where the author wants to publish a new "episode" every few weeks to "air" like a TV show. While the title is typically not a sought-after topic for my reading the premise of the series really intrigued me.
Riley is the typical highschool hot hockey jock with less than desirable academic acumen. Lucy the typical high school nerd with a huge crush on her hot neighbor. Ever since Riley moved next door, Lucy has been mesmerized by the daily strip-tease he does at his window each night. Riley knows Lucy watches him and he's even started the Peeping Lucy moniker for her at school. Lucy knows she's being a creeper but she and her camera just can't help it.
Oy, the angst in here. I felt transported back to high school with all the drama of daily life. Bullies, clicks, nicknames, playboys, fake people, fake eyelashes... Ick.
I liked Lucy, she was unpopular but she had a backbone and stood up for herself when Riley told her to do his work for him. (Not so much with the mean girls but, what can ya do) But, you can also feel the youthful innocence coming off her and you kinda wanna cringe because you know that car crash (metaphorical) is coming. Riley, oh Riley. He's in a pickle but he kinda knowingly put himself there. It's a hard hit to the ego when you have to face what you sow. He's just getting railroaded all over the place. You feel bad for him but he's also a jerk but... ugh... and then what he's doing with/to Lucy. (Momma's got her eye on you... )
My one comment... sex... now this is my Mom/doctor side coming out...yeah, SAFETY should have been addressed, and this may be a plot device for later... BUT.... ugh, yeah, safety. Yes, it is crazy how morals and standards shift when you are young and in the face of something you really, really want. And, standards can change in the heat of the moment... but all the condoms, please!
The episode what short but I'm invested now, and I absolutely want to know what's going on with the cheerleader girlfriend and where Riley and Lucy go from where they left off.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.*
February 14, 2020
“The Cheat” by Marita A. Hansen is a quick and steamy New Adult bully romance with a unique premise. I was entertained and I enjoyed the give and take between Riley and Lucy, but there were a few twists that left me hanging. I had a hard time believing certain aspects of this story and the ending was a little abrupt.
Blurb: Lucy has been spying on her next door neighbor Riley for years and he’s been bullying her just as long, but it isn’t until Riley needs her help that the two become a little more chummy.
Lucy will help Riley cheat if Riley does a few things for Lucy, one of them being her first kiss. What the two don’t anticipate is the explosive chemistry that comes with messing around.
While I found this book to be funny and I loved the whole exchange of favors plot, I just didn’t like their approach to each other. Riley is a bit of a pushover and Lucy thinks about revenge too much. I had a hard time falling in love with these characters and I had an even harder time believing anyone could fall in love as quickly as they did.
Probably my biggest bone to pick with this book is that it’s being split up into a bunch of short stories. There is a giant cliffhanger at the end and I just wanted a happy conclusion for Riley and Lucy.
I don’t think I was drawn in enough to want to go back for seconds, but it was a cute, quick read for sure.
Blurb: Lucy has been spying on her next door neighbor Riley for years and he’s been bullying her just as long, but it isn’t until Riley needs her help that the two become a little more chummy.
Lucy will help Riley cheat if Riley does a few things for Lucy, one of them being her first kiss. What the two don’t anticipate is the explosive chemistry that comes with messing around.
While I found this book to be funny and I loved the whole exchange of favors plot, I just didn’t like their approach to each other. Riley is a bit of a pushover and Lucy thinks about revenge too much. I had a hard time falling in love with these characters and I had an even harder time believing anyone could fall in love as quickly as they did.
Probably my biggest bone to pick with this book is that it’s being split up into a bunch of short stories. There is a giant cliffhanger at the end and I just wanted a happy conclusion for Riley and Lucy.
I don’t think I was drawn in enough to want to go back for seconds, but it was a cute, quick read for sure.
March 1, 2020
Sadly, this did not work in any way for me. I'm not a fan of cheating but can normally get through some in a book if the story is good enough. If the characters have any redeeming qualities and there is some sort of idea that there will be learning on their part. That's not apparent to me at all.
This story is fully of not only cheating but horrible kids who have zero redeeming qualities. The entire story made me mad and that feeling just got worse as I read it. I had hoped that there would be a light at the end of the tunnel that would make me want to read the next part of the book. Incidentally, this is a series story, so The Cheat is just the first part of I don't know how many others to come.
So no. I actually hated this. I'm sure someone out there will like this, but that's not me. Pretty sure nobody I know would like this either. I'm disappointed but hey, on to the next.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This story is fully of not only cheating but horrible kids who have zero redeeming qualities. The entire story made me mad and that feeling just got worse as I read it. I had hoped that there would be a light at the end of the tunnel that would make me want to read the next part of the book. Incidentally, this is a series story, so The Cheat is just the first part of I don't know how many others to come.
So no. I actually hated this. I'm sure someone out there will like this, but that's not me. Pretty sure nobody I know would like this either. I'm disappointed but hey, on to the next.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 9, 2020
The Cheat is a strange story of blackmail and falling for your blackmailer.
None of the characters were likeable in any way, and I found it impossible to root for anyone. The plot not at all believable, and seemed to be trying to maximise the shock factor rather than telling a story. This book has more clichés and tired tropes than I've ever seen before. Instead of being sexy, the interactions just made me very uncomfortable.
Unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me and I won't be picking up the next episode.
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
None of the characters were likeable in any way, and I found it impossible to root for anyone. The plot not at all believable, and seemed to be trying to maximise the shock factor rather than telling a story. This book has more clichés and tired tropes than I've ever seen before. Instead of being sexy, the interactions just made me very uncomfortable.
Unfortunately, this book just wasn't for me and I won't be picking up the next episode.
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2020
Thank you (i guess) to Netgalley for providing this e-arc.
What the fvck was this book. I don't want to waste my time trying to be articulate about it so let's get to ranting.
Each of them is terrible. Lucy's perverted and arrogant. Riley is well.... a mess. His girlfriend is definitely the worst. She literally takes advantage of Riley and has sex with him whilst he's intoxicated with alcohol.
What the fvck was this book. I don't want to waste my time trying to be articulate about it so let's get to ranting.
Each of them is terrible. Lucy's perverted and arrogant. Riley is well.... a mess. His girlfriend is definitely the worst. She literally takes advantage of Riley and has sex with him whilst he's intoxicated with alcohol.
February 25, 2020
I received a free copy of The Cheat in exchange for an honest review. Loved it. It was short, intense, and over way too soon. Not sure how I can wait for the next book, The Cheerleader. I'd definitely recommend this book.
August 18, 2021
The Cheat is your typical nerd meets the popular guy and they fall in love, but with a small twist.
Lucy likes to peek out her window every day and watch the hot and super sexy boy who lives next door. Lucy wishes his personality was as nice as his body, but he’s a total jerk. But, what will she do now when he needs her help the most. Will she finally manage to get revenge?
I really enjoyed this. It was a great, quick and hot read. I’m hoping for more connection between the characters in the next book. I really can’t wait for The Cheerleader, which is the next episode of the series.
Stars ~ 4
I would like to thank the publisher for giving me an ARC of this book.
Lucy likes to peek out her window every day and watch the hot and super sexy boy who lives next door. Lucy wishes his personality was as nice as his body, but he’s a total jerk. But, what will she do now when he needs her help the most. Will she finally manage to get revenge?
I really enjoyed this. It was a great, quick and hot read. I’m hoping for more connection between the characters in the next book. I really can’t wait for The Cheerleader, which is the next episode of the series.
Stars ~ 4
I would like to thank the publisher for giving me an ARC of this book.
April 20, 2020
I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review
Even though this was a short story, I had a fun time reading it. Riley is more than just good looks and a good hockey player and I think the story portrayed him well in relatively few pages. Lucy, on the other hand, gave me weird vibes. I suppose this was conscious choice, but for me, it took away some enjoyment. The storyline itself isn't anything new or original, but that's not something I minded.
Even though this was a short story, I had a fun time reading it. Riley is more than just good looks and a good hockey player and I think the story portrayed him well in relatively few pages. Lucy, on the other hand, gave me weird vibes. I suppose this was conscious choice, but for me, it took away some enjoyment. The storyline itself isn't anything new or original, but that's not something I minded.
February 28, 2020
I cannot believe what I just read. This is unbelievable! The Cheat by Marita A. Hansen is probably the worst book I've read this year (and I've read 29 so far). I'm going to include some quotes from the book in order to further explain why this book was terrible:
1) "Yah, she was a bit chubby, but nothing some hard work couldn't fix."
2) "...thinking about all the ways I could take her, which didn't make sense. It wasn't as though she had a smoking hot body. She was a bit chubby, not my usual taste at all".
3) "Then he stopped grinding. Within seconds I found out why as his fingers burrowed into my panties, one of them pushing inside of me. I gasped, shocked, stunned, but still not stopping him, terrified that if I did he would never want me again."
There was a lot of body shaming, and the main male character was such an a*shole. Also, it made me really uncomfortable when the main female character's mom was masturbating on her bed while watching the boy getting off (he was doing it with the curtains open, so he could tease the girl).
Everything about this book was horrible, oh, another thing! Do not use "cha" to replace "you"!!!!
I do not recommend this book.
*I received a copy of this book from its publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
1) "Yah, she was a bit chubby, but nothing some hard work couldn't fix."
2) "...thinking about all the ways I could take her, which didn't make sense. It wasn't as though she had a smoking hot body. She was a bit chubby, not my usual taste at all".
3) "Then he stopped grinding. Within seconds I found out why as his fingers burrowed into my panties, one of them pushing inside of me. I gasped, shocked, stunned, but still not stopping him, terrified that if I did he would never want me again."
There was a lot of body shaming, and the main male character was such an a*shole. Also, it made me really uncomfortable when the main female character's mom was masturbating on her bed while watching the boy getting off (he was doing it with the curtains open, so he could tease the girl).
Everything about this book was horrible, oh, another thing! Do not use "cha" to replace "you"!!!!
I do not recommend this book.
*I received a copy of this book from its publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2020
A different kind of book about two high school students who live across the street from each other. One-night Lucy notices Riley from across the way through his window and for a few nights, she watches him after his shower until he catches her. What really makes it worse is that he goes to school and tells his football friends and then she becomes known as the peep as “peeping tom”. Her freshman, sophomore, junior and beginning of the senior year of high school has been the worst. Bullied from walking in the halls, in the classrooms, lunch area she is amazed when she is asked to tutor him so he can still play football so he can try I make it to college.
The problem becomes when she finally gives in to help him the bullying, he begins to see first hand so now will he step in and stop it or just say nothing. When he tells her, he likes her she again thinks that it is a trick to just make the rest of her high school last year worse. A story that has many different emotions and I am torn because of the bullying aspect but I do realize it does take place. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
The problem becomes when she finally gives in to help him the bullying, he begins to see first hand so now will he step in and stop it or just say nothing. When he tells her, he likes her she again thinks that it is a trick to just make the rest of her high school last year worse. A story that has many different emotions and I am torn because of the bullying aspect but I do realize it does take place. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
February 20, 2020
This is such a sweet and short book.
It definitely brought out so many of my teenage insecurities just like Lucy our main lead. Teenagers, whether you look like a super model or you don't, we all have insecurities and Lucy struggled with this throughout the book. Not that she wasn't beautiful but society views on beauty isn't does make it hard to understand self love and appreciation of our bodies during fragile teen years.
Marita, did a wonderful job of show casing this in her book, this is real, this is what we all have gone through.
Lucy is a strong, sweet, and quirky neighbor to Riley, her next door neighbor. Riley, he's the hot guy next door, a bit of an alpha, and someone who's trying to make the best of his situation.
They strike up a deal to benefit both. Let's just say this quick read is full of angst, humor, and a sticky situation. Nothing is easy and life sometime will throw you a curve ball or puck in this case when you least expect.
I do recommend this quick read.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book
It definitely brought out so many of my teenage insecurities just like Lucy our main lead. Teenagers, whether you look like a super model or you don't, we all have insecurities and Lucy struggled with this throughout the book. Not that she wasn't beautiful but society views on beauty isn't does make it hard to understand self love and appreciation of our bodies during fragile teen years.
Marita, did a wonderful job of show casing this in her book, this is real, this is what we all have gone through.
Lucy is a strong, sweet, and quirky neighbor to Riley, her next door neighbor. Riley, he's the hot guy next door, a bit of an alpha, and someone who's trying to make the best of his situation.
They strike up a deal to benefit both. Let's just say this quick read is full of angst, humor, and a sticky situation. Nothing is easy and life sometime will throw you a curve ball or puck in this case when you least expect.
I do recommend this quick read.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book
March 2, 2020
THE CHEAT (Played Book 1) by Marita A. Hansen
“Like a TV series, PLAYED is broken up into episodes. Each episode will be between 20,000 to 27,000 words long. A new episode will be published every 2-3 weeks until the season has ended”.
A short read at 94 pages this is episode 1 of a new series, with each episode being released every 2-3 weeks. Lucy hates Riley Jamison but finds him attractive, so attractive that she spies on him through her bedroom window and films him. When Riley needs help with his studies in order to win a much needed hockey scholarship he uses the fact that he knows Lucy has a crush on him to get her to help him. However Lucy also sees it as an opportunity for her to get what she has always wanted, to not just look at Riley but touch him.
It’s a quick read but the author has packed a lot into the story, full of teenage angst it has an unusual concept at its heart. I didn’t particularly fall in love with the characters and I hope they grow in depth over the series but I am intrigued in where this story is going to go over the next instalments.
“Like a TV series, PLAYED is broken up into episodes. Each episode will be between 20,000 to 27,000 words long. A new episode will be published every 2-3 weeks until the season has ended”.
A short read at 94 pages this is episode 1 of a new series, with each episode being released every 2-3 weeks. Lucy hates Riley Jamison but finds him attractive, so attractive that she spies on him through her bedroom window and films him. When Riley needs help with his studies in order to win a much needed hockey scholarship he uses the fact that he knows Lucy has a crush on him to get her to help him. However Lucy also sees it as an opportunity for her to get what she has always wanted, to not just look at Riley but touch him.
It’s a quick read but the author has packed a lot into the story, full of teenage angst it has an unusual concept at its heart. I didn’t particularly fall in love with the characters and I hope they grow in depth over the series but I am intrigued in where this story is going to go over the next instalments.
June 19, 2020
Just no. Worst book I've ever read hands down. The T&C's for the deal between Riley and Lucy - what the fudge, could not be any dumber.
The weird uncalled for scene with the mom - again, WTF. I wish I could have unread that.
The fat-shaming just depicted these characters as shallow and very ignorant, even though Lucy is only depicted as a little chubby around the waist. The fact that a high school teenager, no matter how rich or popular, can control not only her own grades but whether or not her boyfriend stays on the hockey team - are you kidding me. My eyes hurt from all the eye rolling. The way Lucy's virginity is treated is quite surreal and bizarre. It made me feel uncomfortable. Zuko's sudden interest in Lucy came out of nowhere and no explanation was provided. Again WHAT THE FUDGE!
The fact that this series is divided into short episodes is a blessing in disguise because if this was a full length novel I would have DNF'd it at the point where this first book ended.
The weird uncalled for scene with the mom - again, WTF. I wish I could have unread that.
The fat-shaming just depicted these characters as shallow and very ignorant, even though Lucy is only depicted as a little chubby around the waist. The fact that a high school teenager, no matter how rich or popular, can control not only her own grades but whether or not her boyfriend stays on the hockey team - are you kidding me. My eyes hurt from all the eye rolling. The way Lucy's virginity is treated is quite surreal and bizarre. It made me feel uncomfortable. Zuko's sudden interest in Lucy came out of nowhere and no explanation was provided. Again WHAT THE FUDGE!
The fact that this series is divided into short episodes is a blessing in disguise because if this was a full length novel I would have DNF'd it at the point where this first book ended.
February 20, 2020
Lucy and Riley have a secret. Lucy hates Riley, but he is her guilty pleasure. She is crazy attracted to him and can't seem to stop herself. If has ruined her high school years, so far.
Riley lives right next door. The hockey star, and all around best looking student. He needs her help now. He wants to do all he can to stay on the team. This could be Lucy's chance for some payback.
Such a short but very hot story. These characters have an extremely shocking attraction. I found myself strangely enthralled. Now I cannot wait to read the next installment in this soon to be epic series.
***This early copy was given by Netgalley and its publishers, in exchange for an honest review only.
Riley lives right next door. The hockey star, and all around best looking student. He needs her help now. He wants to do all he can to stay on the team. This could be Lucy's chance for some payback.
Such a short but very hot story. These characters have an extremely shocking attraction. I found myself strangely enthralled. Now I cannot wait to read the next installment in this soon to be epic series.
***This early copy was given by Netgalley and its publishers, in exchange for an honest review only.
June 5, 2021
The nerdy nobody, the jock next door, and a deal. I mean what can go wrong? A much loved trope and Hansen does a pretty good job of setting it up. The chemistry between Lucy and Riley was very believable and I was rooting for them. That being said, I have never read a series like this that is broken up into an episodic format and I am really not sure how I feel about it.
While the tension between the two characters was palpable and I was invested in seeing where things ended up, I wasn't really able to connect with the characters to a point where I really felt the need to pick up the next book. It felt like as soon as I was really getting into things, it was over. While things may have some people so ready to pick the next one up, I really didn't feel that way.
While the tension between the two characters was palpable and I was invested in seeing where things ended up, I wasn't really able to connect with the characters to a point where I really felt the need to pick up the next book. It felt like as soon as I was really getting into things, it was over. While things may have some people so ready to pick the next one up, I really didn't feel that way.
February 20, 2020
***2.5 stars***
I requested this book because I liked the blurb, it seemed interesting and a little bit different from the classical “hot boy meets nerd girl, they fall in love”. Turns out, it wasn’t that different.
I really like the beginning of this story but it was all too rushed. I understand that it’s a short novel, but the final part was terrible and there was a moment involving the girl’s mother that was. So. Freaking. Cringy.
The writing isn’t bad and if the story had been longer, with more character development and a stronger connection between the couple, I would have rated it higher.
I requested this book because I liked the blurb, it seemed interesting and a little bit different from the classical “hot boy meets nerd girl, they fall in love”. Turns out, it wasn’t that different.
I really like the beginning of this story but it was all too rushed. I understand that it’s a short novel, but the final part was terrible and there was a moment involving the girl’s mother that was. So. Freaking. Cringy.
The writing isn’t bad and if the story had been longer, with more character development and a stronger connection between the couple, I would have rated it higher.
March 10, 2020
I’m not even sure what happened. The book starts off with a high school girl who is not very popular and well that’s thanks to her next door neighbor the ever popular star hockey player Riley. However she’s in love with him and can’t help but watch him through the window.
He needs help with homework and they use each other, which okay but then we have a crazy girlfriend and horrible teammates and friends.
If that’s bad enough I’m not even sure how to feel about the end of this book and am I going to read the Cheerleader ??? I just honestly can’t tell you what happened because I’m. Not even sure and not in a good way.
He needs help with homework and they use each other, which okay but then we have a crazy girlfriend and horrible teammates and friends.
If that’s bad enough I’m not even sure how to feel about the end of this book and am I going to read the Cheerleader ??? I just honestly can’t tell you what happened because I’m. Not even sure and not in a good way.
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