Playing the Witch's Game

Keepers Of The Veil #3

by Zoe Forward

Pleiades witch Jennifer Marcos is certain that the host of Extreme Survivor is her soulmate. All she has to do is find a fake boyfriend, get on the show, and voila! She'll have her destiny. Unfortunately, she has to rely on ex-Russian spy Nikolai Jovec's six-foot-something of gorgeous, infuriating hotness. To make matters worse, the electric attraction between Jen and Nikolai is hotter than ever. But the only way Nikolai can protect Jen is by hiding the identity of her true Destined...him.

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Witches, Urban Fantasy, Magic, Contemporary

270 pages, ebook

First published March 14, 2016

About the author

USA Today bestselling author, parent, wife, veterinarian, chocolate lover. Author of spicy paranormal and contemporary romances. Zoe Forward brings readers the perfect combination of action adventure, romance, humor and a bit of magic.

Her novels have won numerous awards including the Prism, Readers' Choice Heart of Excellence, Golden Quill, Carolyn Readers Choice Award, and the Booksellers' Best Award.
You can find her residing in the South with a menagerie of four-legged beasts and two wild kids.

[Note: Many apologies, but I'm terrible at checking my Goodreads emails! If you'd like to send a note/msg, please catch me on Instagram or FB)

See the latest on Zoe's website: http://www.zoeforward.com

Don't miss the newsletter: http://www.zoeforward.com/contact/

Reviews

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars. Jen and Nik go through quite the ordeal to be together. Nik agrees to pretend to be Jen's boyfriend on a survival game show so she can snag the host. Whaaaaat? Yup, but before we freak out that our heroine is using our hero to get someone else, know that there is a reasonable paranormal explanation lol The story is cute. Though the plot can get a little out there sometimes, it's not unexpected of a PNR. The characters were interesting though none more than our H, Nikkolai. He's mysterious and protective and very very sexy. Love how he teases Jen :) The world the writer created is intricate and detailed. The action and PN concepts well written. There was one big star dropper for me and that was the cliffy. There wasn't even a HFN really. The plot also starts to get a little confusing toward the end. I think I had to re-read a few times to really understand after thinking, "Wait.. What's happening?". All in all a good read, I would just rework the ending a little bit. Safety: No OW, though there is an obsessive former lover the H does nothing with her. OM in the beginning but it's explained and our h never does anything with him. No abuse. There may have been rape but the person can't confirm (drugged). Both not virgins. Condoms until they decide otherwise.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable, action-packed addition to the series!

"What could possibly go wrong with faking love with a stranger on national TV?"

PLAYING THE WITCH'S GAME by Zoe Forward is the third installment in the author's bewitching Keepers of the Veil series. Each book has featured one of the seven Pleiades, female descendants from goddesses, who must meet once every seven years to ensure that the veil that prohibits evil from being released into the world remains closed. I've always enjoyed stories that incorporate Greek mythology. Add in witches and I'm more than hooked! PLAYING THE WITCH'S GAME is a very enjoyable, action-packed addition to the series.

This story features ex-Russian spy Nikolai Jovec and Pleiades witch Jennifer Marcos. I love the depiction of Nikolai on the cover. This book can be read as a standalone, but it would be enjoyed more if the series has been read in order so that the reader is acquainted with the wherewithal of these Pleiades witches.

As the story opens, Jennifer, accompanied by her best friend, Shannon, has cast a spell in a bar to draw possible fake boyfriend partners to join her in applying to be in the cast of the next survivor reality TV show teeming with dangerous perils. The show was an interesting twist. It was a bit confusing at first as to why Jen was so set on doing it, but, no worries, all is revealed in good time. Jen is convinced that the show's host is her intended, and while she doesn't understand why the competition is necessary to win her destinied's favor, she's determined to comply with his wishes. When she is accosted by some undesirables at the bar, Nikolai comes to her rescue. They share an acrimonious history but end up coming to an agreement to partner to compete in the show despite Nikolai's misgivings.

This couple rocked. Nikolai was adorable and I was head over heels in love with him. Jennifer was stubborn and seemed to be high maintenance... at first. Their soul mate attraction was heated and volatile with plenty of angst and steamy sex. Add in a few unpleasant hexes, a pissed-off goddess and threatening wielders of dark magic and the couple's future prospects appear bleak indeed.

If you have read the previous book, HIS WITCH TO KEEP, you will recognize Nikokai as the brother of Alexi, whose story was told in that book. Both Alexi and Serenity, his fated mate, appear and figure into this tale. It was great catching up with them!

I thoroughly enjoyed this addition to the series. The characters were strong and compelling and the story was addicting with plenty of danger and excitement. I highly recommend PLAYING THE WITCH'S GAME to anyone who enjoys steamy, spell-bounding paranormal romance with a plethora of mystery! I can't wait to read Shannon's story!

My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...

4 Wine Glasses!

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the series which combines a contemporary romance with Greek mythology. The intriguing mix of genre works brilliantly in this skilfully written novel where one of the seven Pelaides witches, Jenny, decides to participate in an extreme survival game show - much against the advice of everyone she usually holds dear, except Owen, the host of the show who refuses to go out with her until she has been one of the contestants ! To enable her to be included in the adventurous undertaking she needs to have a pretend boyfriend but finding one initially proves difficult until she manages to bribe Nikolai into joining her. Initially she believes Owen is her fated mate, but as the show progresses and evil hazards threaten the lives of her and Nikolai, the two are continually drawn to each other as they endeavour to keep each other safe and alive whilst also battling a powerful, malicious enemy who means to kill Jenny for her own nefarious purposes. Can the two survive the adventurous experience? Will they be able to continue resisting their mutual attraction or will love - and the will of the gods - help them both to survive to achieve their HEA?

The paranormal talents of the characters are depicted in a believable, easy to relate to manner, whilst the challenges, their locations and encounters are all described in a manner which paints pictures in the imagination of readers and taking them into the fast paced adventure to witness them for themselves.

This is an intriguing, well written series which I have thoroughly enjoyed reading. Each book continues the adventures but could be read as a standalone- though when they're so good why would you want to miss out on any of them? They do come to an appropriate conclusion but also give a tantalising hint which teasingly leaves you wanting to know more. Personally, I can't wait for the next book in this enthralling series to be released so I can find out what happens next!

Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Siobhan Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating 3.5 stars.

I've read the other two books in this series, and really enjoyed both of them, so I was keen to read this when it came up for review. While I definitely enjoyed Jennifer and Nick's story, it's my least favorite of the series so far.

Both were trying to deny the obvious attraction toward one another, and I enjoyed all the snarky sexy toing and froing. Owen was a total slimeball and it was obvious that Jen was under some form of spell.

While this was quite an action-packed read, I felt the pacing was off in the middle and it started to lose my attention. It picks up at the end and it concluded with a bang.

The romance was great as I've come to expect from Zoe. She knows how to write awesome romantic and sexy scenes. The writing is fab overall and I enjoy this author's style.

My primary issue was the whole notion of the reality TV show. I can't believe that Matt would jeopardize so many of his 'clan' to go on a ridiculous show. I understand she was hexed but I still struggled to wrap my head around the premise. It just wasn't believable. The scenes of them in the show were also a bit anti-climactic - they could travel to her alternate realm when they needed to, so I didn't feel the danger. For me, it was non-existent. When the threat materialized it was all over and done with too fast. It lacked substance and depth.

Overall, this was an enjoyable enough read. While I didn't love it as much as the first two books, I am still invested in this series and look forward to reading the next book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Inkslinger PR in exchange for my honest review. This review will be posted to my blog in early April http://myyanabookobsession.com

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

fun sexy and action packed.

[♥ WishfulMiss ♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jen is one of the seven Pleiades witches, she's pretty determined to find her it guy, the sooner the better. I liked that even though Jen is a powerful descendant of gods, she has dreams and ambitions. She has fears and doubts just like the rest of us. In the beginning Jen is just someone tired of being alone, and ready to commit, start a life together with someone who will love and cherish her. So when she thinks she might have found the one man destined to be her soul mate she decides to explore the possibility. Too bad she’s looking for Mr. Right when she’s already met her Forever guy.

In order to explore this potential it guy, Jen needs a fake boyfriend to enter with her on an extreme survivors TV show. Enter Nikolai.

Jen and Nikolai had some pent up lust for each other since their last meeting a year ago, when they first met, but Nikolai was a man with secrets, leading a dangerous life. He wasn’t looking for anything permanent. Throw into the mix a crazy obsessive necromancer vowing to destroy his destined mate and Nikolai pushes his feeling for Jen aside in order to save her.

His best protection of her was to distance himself from her.

When Nikolai has a premonition about Jen, he has no choice but to stick close to her. I think Nikolai stole the show for me. He was such a fun character. He was funny, strong, courageous and I loved that even though he tries to keep Jen at a distance, he never really succeeds. He was possessive, jealous, and protective of his witch. I loved his smart ass comments and his wicked imagination. He definitely doesn’t mince words or hold back.

“Let me be clear on this night.” He leaned close and whispered in her ear. “Wild, dirty sex. We explore boundaries. Do you know how far you can go?”

Nikolai was just so outrageous and the things that came out of his mouth!

"I bet my kisses made you wetter than anything he ever said to you. Wet for me. Not him."

Jen believes her it guy is this creep, Owen. So for the Safety gang out there, there is a tiny bit of drama, but it actually never bothered me because Owen stays behind the scenes and there is no real interaction between them. Things are so explosive between Jen and Nikolai from the beginning that its obvious who belongs together. Jen believes there is a connection between her and Owen, only because of the hex placed on her. They never even kiss.

Her chest bloomed with excitement. She finally found her guy. He was incredible. Brave. Loyal.

“ I love you, Nikolai,” she breathed.
Those words ripped him apart. They gave him a strength he’d never known before. She owned him, body and soul. For this woman, he would kill. For her alone, he would die.

I loved these two together. It was hot, steamy and so romantic. I loved the action, the humor and the crazy but perfect for each other couple. *Magic Babies*

“This is the kind of love that is going to be forever, Jen. I love you, and it’s not the kind of love that wavers.”

This does end on a cliff hanger but only because there are still baddies out to get the Seven, but Jen and Nikolai get their HEA so no worries there. And the cliff hanger will continue in the next book featuring the next witch.

If you like Kresley Cole's IAD you will definitely like Zoe Forward's Keepers of the Veil series. It has witches, magic, other dimensions, and destined soul mates. Although Playing the Witch's Game is the 3rd in the series, it read well as a standalone. Loved that the author included a glossary to refresh/introduce the backstory and different types of supernatural we'd be reading about. As a first timer, this helped out a lot!

*** ARC received in exchange for an honest review ***

[Carra · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been reading this series from the start, so I was excited to read this third book. After all, Nikolai is so very alpha and mysterious that he alone is reason enough to start reading. Jen makes a good match for him, or at least she would if she didn't feel quite as superficial as she came across in the story.

I had a hard time with in this book with the decisions that Jen and Nikolai were making. Pleiades witches don't go seeking out the spotlight as it is way too risky for them, yet Jen's common sense seems to abandon her in her quest for her destined soulmate. And then Nikolai doesn't put his foot down to stop her and instead gives in and joins her...which also is a bit nuts since there's someone after him as well. Now, there's a reason behind why Jen does what she does...but it still didn't really ring true for me. The fact that the other Druids and witches don't stop them is also puzzling.

As far as chemistry, Jen and Nikolai definitely have it, and with the reality show's rules about not hooking up during filming it does create sexual tension in the story. The chemistry though felt to me like it was primarily physical, and I didn't quite feel the emotional connection.

I do recommend reading the first two books in the series before picking up Playing the Witch's Game, it will increase your enjoyment of the book since it will give you insight into the backstory of the series. Fans of paranormal romance will enjoy the story, and I'd recommend for 18+ due to sexual content. 3 stars, mostly because of the illogical decision making by the characters which didn't fit with what we know from this series already.

[Karla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was an easy read, I read it in one sitting. I liked the idea of the survivor show. I just don't get why she was insistent on doing it. She just seemed obsessed. I really did enjoy the games show - extreme survivor..

Having not read the previous books I don't know if my rating would have been higher with a back story. As a stand alone novel I found it good. There wasn't as much magic in it as I had anticipated, but being on a game show I can understand why.


There were a few real intense scenes but I didn't really connect with the main character Jen. She seemed high maintenance. But Nic was adorable.


I was given this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.

[Zoe Forward · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had so much fun writing this book!

I hope you'll enjoy reading it too...

Zoe :)

[Ruth B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jennifer wants to find "the one" and in her desperation for finding the man sent by the gods she convinces herself that a TV host is her soulmate. The only problem? to enter the reality show that could take her closer to him, she has to find a fake boyfriend. She will convince Nikolai (the sexy Alexi's brother who we meet in the previous book) to help her to get into the show. Not only their lives will be in so much danger but the sexual tension between them will test them all the time.

As all the books in the series, the story presents a pair that feels really attracted to each other, whose tension and passion burns the pages but they think the other is better off without him or her. Nikolai wants to protect Jennifer against all dangers even himself.

The story presents a reality show as platform and it's perfect to make the characters go crazy trying to stay alive. They have to face the scariest and deadliest test and challenges. It also helps the story to move on really fast.

The book is really easy to read, the characters are great. There is magic and romance and if you like Zoe's books you will enjoy this one too. We get to see characters from previous books and how all the books are connected creating a bigger world.

*** I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review. ***

[Penny · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Ho Hum Magical Stars

After reading the two previous stories in this series I was spoiled by kickass heroines so I was expecting another great leading lady for Playing the Witch’s Game. Unfortunately for me, Jen just didn’t quite meet my expectations.

Jen is convinced that some famous guy hosting an extreme survivalist show is her Destined. She’ll get the chance of going on a date with him if she gets on his tv show… is this sounding fishy to you yet?

Disregarding what everyone who loves her is telling her, she insists that this is the only way to be with her one… Only that guy is not actually her destined; Nikolai, the brother of the previous book’s H, recognized her as his destined match the very first time they met, but to keep Jen safe, he had to tell her otherwise.

Now she’s roped him into being her fake boyfriend and Extreme Survivor partner in national television, putting both their lives in jeopardy.

Even though Jen was not quite herself at the beginning of the story, I never completely warmed up to her. She was judgmental and seemed a bit scatter-brained at the start, and although she toughened up during their adventure she was not cool under pressure, nothing like you’d expect from a witch with magical powers and some fighting training.

Nikolai was the definition of a Martyr. Yes, a hero being the protector is one of my favorite traits in a leading man, but this guy took it a little to the extreme. So while yes, he was sexy, hot, bossy and possessive he also kept pushing Jen away so she wouldn’t get too attached to him if anything bad happened…

While not a bad book, Playing the Witch’s Game in my opinion was not in the same league as the first two books, which I had loved. There was lots of adventure, but the ongoing plot for the series felt kind of flat and unconnected to and

I’m aware it’s ridiculous to expect every book from an author to work for you, but I was kind of bummed by this book not working. I’m just hoping the next installment in the series brings back the kick ass witches and hunky protectors with the usual dangers and no more venomous snake infested jungles.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

[Barb Lie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing the Witch’s Game by Zoe Forward is the 3rd book in her Keepers of the Veil series. This series revolves around the seven Pleiades witches, their destined mates who protect them, and the evil that is out to kill them. It reads very well as a standalone, though it is always better to get to know the previous characters in the earlier books.

Jen Marcos is our heroine, a Pleiades witch, who thinks she knows who her destined mate is. She has to participate in a TV reality show, Extreme Survivor, because her boyfriend is the host. Nik Jovec is our hero, and Alexi ‘s (previous hero) brother. Nik will be approached by Jen to be her partner in this dangerous game, and at first he refuses. But Nik feels his attraction to Jen, and knows that she may be his mate, and despite his fears for her survival, and her insistence to participate, he agrees to help. At the same time, Nik does not tell her that the man she thinks is her mate is not, that it is him.

As this game begins, they are met with danger at every step. It is very exciting and tense. On occasion, Jen will secretly transport them to another dimension, to help them recuperate, and in those moments their relationship heats up. Jen feels her attraction to Nik, but steadfastly refuses to believe that it’s just lust. When back in the game, they cannot quit, but they realize that they are actually targets by a dangerous and powerful villain. Alexi and Serenity secretly join them to help, and the TV show camerawoman, Shannon (who is also an upcoming Pleiades witch ) is also in danger.

Telling too much more would be spoilers, but this is a very exciting adventure that will hold you on the edge of your seat, unable to put the book down, as you needed to know if our couple will survive. I liked Nik a lot, he was not only a hunk; he was also so sweet and protective of Jen. I liked Jen, but wasn’t crazy about her insistence about her so called mate, not realizing until later that Nik was the man for her.

Zoe Forward does a great job continuing this storyline of the witches. This is a fun exciting series, which I wholly recommend.

Barb
The Reading Cafe

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story!! I was sort of like a Hunger Games in the witch's world. So well written and the characters are so well developed. A great job by Zoe Forward on this one!!

When Jennifer falls in love with the host of the show Extreme Survivor, he tells her all she needs to do is get on the show. Jennifer is confused as to how she is going to do this because she does not have a boyfriend at the time and only couples can enter. When Jennifer meets talk, sexy Nikolai one night, she knows that he has to be her in for the show. When Jennifer pitches the whole things to Nikolai, he is hesitant at first, but knows that he has to do this in order to protect her from this vision he has seen. The attraction is too strong for the both of them too, so Nikolai knows that he doesn't want anyone else to be able to take advantage of her. Who else can protect what he thinks is his?? No one but Nikolai, SO...he agrees to do the show with Jennifer.

When Jennifer and Nikolai are being interviewed for the show, she gets a strange feeling that maybe they shouldn't go through with the whole deal. The show informs them that they are already bound by the contract of the show and that they can not back out now. Nikolai tells Jennifer that it will all be ok and that he will be there with her. When they run into the host of the show that Jennifer is trying so desperately to impress, he tries to talk them out of the show too. Jennifer thinks that his actions are strange and that what he says to her is even more strange.

What Nikolai and Jennifer have to go through with the show provides for an action packed story that is for sure. Will they be able to survive all that they are being faced with? What about the host, will Jennifer get her chance with him? You need to read this awesome story to find out how things end. I don't want to give it all away because you need to read it for yourself. Such a great read and I can't wait to see what Zoe Forward come out with next!!

[Angela ReadingCave · Rating 4 out of 5]

Playing the Witch’s Game is the third book in the Keepers of the Veil series and I can honestly say that it is my favorite in the series. I think it could have a lot to do with Nikolai- Alexi’s brother from the previous one. Yeah the really hot Russian spy, who liked to annoy his brother yet still had his back. He is the love interest in this one.

Jennifer comes off as a little high strung. She wants to find her destined guy- knows all the signs of finding him and still doesn’t recognize Nikolai for what he is. I get that she is under pressure to find her guy. Yet, part of me wanted to look at her shake my head and say “ unbelievable, seriously unbelievable.” She honestly thought that the Owen was her destiny? Umm…No. I had to side with her BFF-Shannon no destined guy would make her go on a survival show just to go on a date. It does make for a good story though.

Nikolai is well, hot, fierce, protective and intelligent. He knows that he is Jennifer’s destined mate. He just has to play it off as if he wasn’t. Something about a witch from his past that wants his cookies to make babies with. Apparently she is cray-cray and will hurt Jen. Hence him agreeing to help her by pretending to be her boyfriend. Side note- I love that he calls her Brunette Barbie and Angel. He is extremely protective of Jen, which makes sense she is his destiny. His power is a burden though, one that could cripple him at times. Only his brother has made it out of one of his visions alive.

The Druids go crazy trying to protect Jen on the show. It is a logistical nightmare- only Shannon and Eli, a druid. The tension between these two are enough to light the book on fire. Hopefully, the next book will be about them.

Playing the Witch’s Game is an amusing tale. Try to read the series in order, I promise it helps to know the back stories. Nikolai will warm your heart, and Jen grows on you.

http://readingcave.blogspot.com/2016/...

[Eva Millien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Certain that the host of Extreme Survivor is her soulmate, Pleiades witch Jennifer Marcos is determined to get on the show but first she has to find a fake boyfriend in this spellbinding paranormal romance.

Nikolai Jovec is determined to protect Jen but the only way to do that is keeping secrets and the readers can’t help but get caught up in the excitement of this romance as Nikolai and Jen discover that there is much more in store for them than surviving the game. The attraction between Jen and Nikolai sizzles with lots of heat but the relationship is a bit volatile as Jen is determined to have her destiny and it’s all Nikolai can do to keep her from learning the truth. The characters are strong, bewitching and ensnare readers right from the start while the fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps them hanging on the edge of their seat with lots of suspense, excitement and romance.

Expectation builds as soon readers get an idea of Jen’s plan as it certainly sounds exciting but full of danger and the excitement builds as she manages to convince Nikolai to go along with her plan which adds to danger factor and from there the exhilaration keeps readers on the edge with non-stop believable action including quite a few life threatening events that had me biting my nails. The intriguing events hold the reader hostage and the well written scenes full of vivid details makes it easy to picture each and every scene.

The Keepers of the Veil series has so many intriguing elements and surprising twists and each story just wet’s the appetite for more. Jen and Nikolai’s story really adds depth to the series by added to the realism with its refreshingly different plot that not only added to the excitement, it made a great setting and had me glued to the pages and I can’t wait to find out what Zoe Forward has in store for the Pleiades witches next.

[Books 2 Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

*´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
★*´¨✫*
Playing the Witches Game part of the Witches Veil series.
Zoe Forward

Damn I loved this book it was like survivor meets Percy Jackson meets Charmed. Playing the Witches Game had it all reality TV, Gods and goddesses and witches and warlocks I was in paranormal romance reader heaven as I read about Jennifer and Nikolai. I love the way Zoe Forward has blended the paranormal and real worlds together in this book and creating characters that engage from the start.

Both out hero and heroine are of mythological stock, Jennifer must find her true mate in order for her witchy line to survive. Descended from one of the 7 Pleiades sisters the gods gave only the eldest child of each Pleiades magical abilities if Jennifer doesn't find her true mate her line will fizzle out leaving only 6 Pleiades in existence. Whilst Nikolai is descended from what could only be called death itself. Nikolai knows that he is Jennifer's true mate however knowing and being able to do something about it are 2 separate things with a demon obsessed with producing the next in Deaths line he fears for Jennifer's safety. With Nikolai determined to hide the fact that he is her true mate, Jennifer's looking for love in all the wrong places putting her in risky situations that Nikolai must save her from.

I read this book as a standalone and loved it but it's actually the 3rd book in the series. This was a new author for me and that's what I love about being part of a blog, there is the opportunity to read authors that sometimes you would never come across. Since starting to review books I have added at least 10 new authors to my automatic purchase list.


Books2Blog
Heather

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prompted by outside forces to participate in Extreme Survivor, a reality show where only the strongest will make it to the end of the season, Pleiades witch Jen Marcos convinces Nikolai Jovec, former Russian spy and all around badass, to play her television love interest. Nick's not too keen on help Jen out with her plan to snare her other, her soulmate destined by the gods. Because Nick already knows that the only one destined for Jen is him, and he'll be hanged if he'll see her with someone else.

I found myself literally laughing out loud as I read this book. The chemistry between Jen, who has no idea of just how important Nick will be to her destiny, and Nick is both off-the-charts steamy and filled with humor. Keeping Jen safe is a full-time job for Nick, along with the cast of characters that have been introduced in previous books in the series, and the situations that they get themselves into while trying to stay alive made for a lively and entertaining read.

I thoroughly enjoyed PLAYING THE WITCH'S GAME, the third book in Zoe's Keepers of the Veil series, and now want to go back to the beginning of the series so that I can see where it all started. This book gets 4 'Survivor meets Greek mythology, spy games, wild ride, laugh out loud while fanning yourself' stars. I look forward to reading all of the books in this series, and look forward to the next one.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

[Nicola · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

The third book in the Keepers of the Veil series, Playing the Witch's Game brings readers magic, mystery, a faux-mance and a survival reality TV show.

"What could possibly go wrong with faking love with a stranger on national TV?"

I've read each book in this series and whilst enjoyable, this hasn't been my favourite; I found it slower to get going, with the story more mystery/suspense/action and the paranormal aspect coming later. But, Jen and Nikolai were likeable and, with a bit of a past between then, they bring tension and build-up; whilst she's totally blind to the fact, Nik is her actually her destined, not Owen, the presenter of the show she's desperate to be a part of. And this leads to banter, passion, and some touching moments as they open up to one another.

" I will do what I must to protect you. If you were seriously hurt…Don’t make me live with that. Don’t make me have to survive your death."

Some of my issues with pacing could be down to the fact that reality TV is my nemesis and more a case of it's not you, it's me. I certainly enjoyed their story more as it progressed, the last 30% was superb--gripping and emotional--and Zoe Forward has once again brought readers a couple to appreciate. Looking forward to Shannon's story.

Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

While I missed the book in between, I've had experience in this world before reading this one. I think this can be read as a standalone if it needs to be, because it is mostly the story of Nikolai (aka Nick) and Jen.

Jen has cast a spell to draw her soulmate to her. At the same time, the host of a reality survival show has run into her more times than is natural. Putting two and two together, she assumes that this is it. The only catch is that Owen (the host) says that in order for them to date, she has to go on his show, which also happens to be a special couples version. After striking out with random guys, Nikolai proves to be a worthy candidate to help her out. Oh, and he's not above making her promise to spend the night with him when all this is over.

Nikolai knows that they are fated, but is a little stumped about why she is so insistent that she prove herself to Owen. She surely won't survive this show with anyone else, so he's willing to put himself in this position knowing that he will never be good enough to actually be the man for her. They both realize rather quickly that the show has it out for them (and involves bonus characters from Nikolai's past). Throw in some hexes, hot soulmate action, and a few surprises along the way and you've got a solidly entertaining read.

[Katrina Berry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is Book 3 of the Keepers of the Veil Series. Playing the Witch's Game by Zoe Forward is amazing. Even though the book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone. Mind you, once you’ve finished book 3, you will be tempted to go back and read from the beginning of the series. I know that’s what I’m going to do-it’s that good! The whole reality survival show angle was intriguing and to watch how it all unfolded and played into the storyline was even better. The icing on the cake was the hexing...loved it! The chemistry between Jen and Nikolai was hot and intense while the supporting characters were very well done! This book has it all guys and gals: witches, gods, romance, and action all wrapped up in a delightful package!

[Heather book whore & shifter slut extrordinaire · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book in one of my favorite Entangled Covet series.

Each book combines the search for the witch's "Protector" with the continuing war all of the community (friends, family, sworn protectors and others who support their destiny) surrounding these special 7 women, as witches in a modern world, face. Not only must they hide their abilities from the technology of the 21st century but there are still actual Witch Hunters out there determined to exterminate the witches and all around them! This book, more so than the first two, gives us a clearer picture of the types of enemies facing the witches and their supporters, as well as the lengths they are willing to go to to destroy the witches.

I really hope we get (at least) 7 books since there are 7 witches out there who need to find love and laughter and happiness and continue to "fight the good fight".

[Marie Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:

Fabulously written with fun, entertaining, and definitely irresistible characters and a simmering plot, this story took me on a wild ride filled with lots fun, sizzling romance, and one hell of an adventure!

Jennifer and Nikolai, wow, did they crackle with that unmistakable heat of sizzling sexual chemistry that is wild and out of control, yet they fit beautifully together like two puzzle pieces. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the story. I laughed and I sighed, and I definitely squirmed! Zoe Forward's books are an absolute joy to read. I will never tire of reading these books.

Playing The Witch's Game gets a SINFUL AND ENTERTAINING FIVE SHOOTING STARS! I loved this book, and there is all there is to that!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing the Witch's Game is the third book in Zoe Forward's Keeper of the Veil series. This is an excellent addition to the series, giving us the story of a third witch, Jennifer, and her fated mate.

Note: For the best reading experience, I would recommend reading books 1 (Protecting His Witch) and 2 (His Witch to Keep) before reading this one, as there are characters from the previous novels that appear, as well as some references to events in those novels. However, it is not entirely necessary to do so in order to enjoy the book.

[Nichole Severn · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this third installment of Zoe Forward’s Keepers of the Veil series, I’m absolutely blown away. Centered around a curse, a reality TV show, and Jennifer needing a fake boyfriend, the book takes you though non-stop action, tantalizing romance, and so much more. Nikolai is dangerous, sexy, and everything Jen needs in her life, even if she doesn’t want to see it. Forward’s writing is compelling and addictive and I couldn’t put the book down for the life of me. 5 stars.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't decide if Nik was strange, or caring, “really? You might have broken something important, or you’re bleeding internally, and you want me to clean up?” I liked Nik he sometimes had to stop his woman from doing naughty things on camera, "he growled and pulled away. “Stop.” He rolled her off him and tucked her tight to his non-injured side. “It’ll be the best sex of your life. I promise . It’s just not happening on camera.” I enjoyed this book I loved Nik.

[Shellby · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book of Zoe Forward's that I have read and I loved it. Now I have to go back and start the series from the beginning! It keeps you hooked right from the start.

-NightWolf Book Blog

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5.0

Zoe Forward has created a world that is both realistic and fantastic!

Read full review in the 2016 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Maria · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hexed into competing on a dangerous televised survival show, Jenny and Nikolai are struggling to stay alive without revealing their magical powers.

Why I started this book: I'm tackling my already purchased book list in efforts to save money this month.

Why I finished it: Not my cup of tea, but I really don't like reality TV either.

[Helen Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

When fates align, watch out

An undeniable force takes an unlikely couple to a snake-infested island and beyond as part of a reality television show. This fast-paced, sensual story kept me up all night reading. Although book 3, Playing the Witch's Game stands on its own.

[Ruth Marie Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like the story. Just was not for me.