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Playing with Hearts #1
Playing with Fire
It was just a one-night stand.
The hot baseball star was supposed to be my last hurrah. A handsome stranger to get lost in before I started working for the man who’d always controlled my life.
No feelings. No attachments. Nothing but a few drinks, a spin around the dance floor, and a couple hours of passion.
But come Monday morning, any hopes of never seeing him again were dashed when I found out he played for the ball club I now worked for. I couldn’t get rid of him, even if I wanted to, and that put his life on the line.
She was a game changer. One night with her, and everything I thought I wanted was turned on its head.
Convincing her to give me a chance was only the beginning. There were bigger things at play, some so dangerous it threatened our lives.
But I was determined to make it work. To have her in my life. The only problem was, someone else was dead set on cutting our time together short.
Will she give me a chance, give me her heart, before it’s too late?
The hot baseball star was supposed to be my last hurrah. A handsome stranger to get lost in before I started working for the man who’d always controlled my life.
No feelings. No attachments. Nothing but a few drinks, a spin around the dance floor, and a couple hours of passion.
But come Monday morning, any hopes of never seeing him again were dashed when I found out he played for the ball club I now worked for. I couldn’t get rid of him, even if I wanted to, and that put his life on the line.
She was a game changer. One night with her, and everything I thought I wanted was turned on its head.
Convincing her to give me a chance was only the beginning. There were bigger things at play, some so dangerous it threatened our lives.
But I was determined to make it work. To have her in my life. The only problem was, someone else was dead set on cutting our time together short.
Will she give me a chance, give me her heart, before it’s too late?
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 11, 2021
42 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Isaacson
30 books237 followersEllie Isaacson has been an avid reader her whole life, but a couple years ago she had a dream that she just couldn't forget. She cultivated that dream and began writing, which became a dream of a different sort. Ellie is thrilled to be able to share her passion with her readers. As an accountant and an author, she slings numbers by day and words by night. She's also a wife and a mother of two amazing boys and one crazy hellion pup.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 7, 2021
Loved this entire story! Corey's loving nature and fierce protectiveness was so hot! I loved Frankie's no nonsense ,take what you want attitude. Their journey definitely wasn't easy. Fate stepped in nicely and took control!
March 2, 2021
Wow! I love this story! It's a Sports, Mafia, Office-type romance without being too much of any of those genres. A Steamy suspenseful romance. The characters are intriguing and the storyline is unpredictable. I thought a few times I knew what would happen and I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop but NOPE not the way the story went. SO GOOD!!!
I love how Corey and Frankie's relationship evolved. It started out with a bang and then life happened to make it a slow burn, but the anticipation of "will they won't they" was angsty and enthralling.
The family drama keeps things interesting and the "SEXINESS" between Corey and Frankie is scorching hot !! So looking forward to the next book, because I definitely want to know more about some of those intriguing characters...*hint the Man with ever growing tattoo* ️ ️
I love how Corey and Frankie's relationship evolved. It started out with a bang and then life happened to make it a slow burn, but the anticipation of "will they won't they" was angsty and enthralling.
The family drama keeps things interesting and the "SEXINESS" between Corey and Frankie is scorching hot !! So looking forward to the next book, because I definitely want to know more about some of those intriguing characters...*hint the Man with ever growing tattoo* ️ ️
March 10, 2021
This is the 1st book in a new series and is Corey and Frankie’s journey. These two have a hot one-night stand with no names exchanged, as Frankie just wanted a wild night before she goes to work for her overbearing uncle. Corey is a baseball player who cannot forget Frankie and is amazed when she arrives as the new PR for the team. Corey is determined to convince Frankie to give them a chance and she certainly makes him work hard, and their journey is not an easy one. This is a well written tale which is intriguing, and filled with drama, suspense, twists, family, and love, with sizzling and undeniable chemistry. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend for all.
February 26, 2021
Four and 1/2 stars!
Frankie was only looking for one wild and crazy night. The plan was simple: find a hot guy, take him back to her room, have a fantastic night, and walk away. Frankie was at a transition point and didn’t have room for complications, no matter how hot. New job. Overbearing uncle. If her past was any indication, any attempt at a relationship could be dangerous for any unsuspecting man that enters her life.
Corey was just living the dream. Playing baseball. Getting paid. Hanging out with his friends and getting laid pretty much whenever he wanted. Until her. The hottie at the bar that picked him up, took him home, and rocked his world. No name. No phone number. Just when he consigned himself to never seeing her again, she shows up at work as the new PR for the team. Letting her go at this point just isn’t an option. Corey has to work extra hard to let Frankie give him a chance and when a crazy person starts going after Frankie, Corey promises he’s never letting go.
This was my first book by Ellie Isaacson and I really enjoyed it! It was an insta-lust that was smoking hot right out of the gate. They just had so much chemistry! The side characters were all interesting and definitely developed to the point where you’re hoping they have their own stories. The only thing I felt was off was I felt like I didn’t really get to know Corey until closer to the end. We knew he played baseball and that he had a sister, but that was about it. Frankie definitely had “more”. Overall, it was a great read and had enough twists to keep my interest until the end. Can’t wait to read the next book!
Frankie was only looking for one wild and crazy night. The plan was simple: find a hot guy, take him back to her room, have a fantastic night, and walk away. Frankie was at a transition point and didn’t have room for complications, no matter how hot. New job. Overbearing uncle. If her past was any indication, any attempt at a relationship could be dangerous for any unsuspecting man that enters her life.
Corey was just living the dream. Playing baseball. Getting paid. Hanging out with his friends and getting laid pretty much whenever he wanted. Until her. The hottie at the bar that picked him up, took him home, and rocked his world. No name. No phone number. Just when he consigned himself to never seeing her again, she shows up at work as the new PR for the team. Letting her go at this point just isn’t an option. Corey has to work extra hard to let Frankie give him a chance and when a crazy person starts going after Frankie, Corey promises he’s never letting go.
This was my first book by Ellie Isaacson and I really enjoyed it! It was an insta-lust that was smoking hot right out of the gate. They just had so much chemistry! The side characters were all interesting and definitely developed to the point where you’re hoping they have their own stories. The only thing I felt was off was I felt like I didn’t really get to know Corey until closer to the end. We knew he played baseball and that he had a sister, but that was about it. Frankie definitely had “more”. Overall, it was a great read and had enough twists to keep my interest until the end. Can’t wait to read the next book!
March 4, 2021
Playing with Fire🔥
The title is perfect for this book as there are so many interpretations that play out in the book, that make it true❣️Frankie and Corey meet up at a bar and engage in a one night stand. However, both have different ideas about what will happen next and unbeknownst to them how they will change because of their interaction that particular night😳
I don’t want to spoil the story by saying too much but I will say I loved Frankie and Corey and all the “obstacles” they have to work through to be together😍 This story has everything in it and I can’t wait for the next one😁 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review and recommendation for this one❤️
The title is perfect for this book as there are so many interpretations that play out in the book, that make it true❣️Frankie and Corey meet up at a bar and engage in a one night stand. However, both have different ideas about what will happen next and unbeknownst to them how they will change because of their interaction that particular night😳
I don’t want to spoil the story by saying too much but I will say I loved Frankie and Corey and all the “obstacles” they have to work through to be together😍 This story has everything in it and I can’t wait for the next one😁 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review and recommendation for this one❤️
March 7, 2021
Playing With Fire by Ellie Jackson is one of those books that I’m torn on a rating because to be completely honest and true to myself I couldn’t stand it towards the end as I feel that it should have been shorter... Much much shorter. I initially loved the book. I like the heroine character Frankie a lot, I loved that it’s an office romance with a twist on a sports/mafia romance as well. That is clever and not combined often. I’ve read two other books with the sports and mafia theme and it’s not easy to do as I didn’t love those books either.
What I did like is:
Frankie: she is a strong heroine who has to deal with her uncle’s annoying, over the top and even dangerous to her friends level of overprotectiveness.
Frankie’s life is one of those where you look at from the outside and it’s painfully obvious how miserable the individual is, I.E. Brittney Spears even though they are extremely wealthy.
Frankie lives with grand wealth at her disposal however her overbearing uncle Marco does not let her live a normal life. She is afraid to get close to people. We don’t really know if she’s exaggerating as we don’t see any particular examples. When reading, I didn’t want to see any. That was because I yearned for Frankie to have a relationship with her uncle as her mother died.
Her relationship with her mother was also strained, perhaps because she died so young. Frankie does have a good relationship with Vinney and Vivian, her cousins. Vivian is the daughter of Marco and Vinney is her twin brother.
Frankie meets Corey. Frankie also meets Mitch, her new friend and grows as a person. The character growth with Frankie as well as Corey was on point. The author did an amazing job taking us from one extreme point to another.
This is very much also a romantic suspense novel as there is danger looming in the background. There is underlying fear at all angles of the journey with Frankie and Corey.
This is a very long book. The book was slow at times and I feel that it could have been shortened about a hundred pages and it would have made it better. More to the point and less wasting words is what I prefer personally so perhaps that isn’t how everyone will feel.
This is a good book I just felt it dragged that’s my only critique which is good because the writing was great and the characters had depth and untimely were mature which I like.
What I didn’t like but don’t mind was Corey. He wasn’t the love of my life or a book boyfriend for me but I do feel that he and Frankie are true soulmates. It was sweet and I wish I didn’t feel that I have to provide critique. There is a beautiful relationship with Corey and his sister which I think readers will like. It is sweet how close they are and how deeply they both love each other. Total brother and sister goals.
What I did like as well and am looking forward to is the next book in the series. I am a total sucker for an intertwined standalone friend/family series and that is exactly what we are going to get in the next installment of the series! We are going to get someone else’s story but I won’t spoil that for you ;)
I would definitely read the entire series. I feel that the authors work will only get better with each next book I read. Also, the more you read a stand-alone series, the more you grow to love all of the secondary characters. What’s also fun is you get to read about Frankie and Corey again in a way because I’m sure they’ll make appearances in the Playing With Hearts Series.
This book is an ARC by the ever amazing GivemebooksPR. I am so grateful and I am proving an honest review.
What I did like is:
Frankie: she is a strong heroine who has to deal with her uncle’s annoying, over the top and even dangerous to her friends level of overprotectiveness.
Frankie’s life is one of those where you look at from the outside and it’s painfully obvious how miserable the individual is, I.E. Brittney Spears even though they are extremely wealthy.
Frankie lives with grand wealth at her disposal however her overbearing uncle Marco does not let her live a normal life. She is afraid to get close to people. We don’t really know if she’s exaggerating as we don’t see any particular examples. When reading, I didn’t want to see any. That was because I yearned for Frankie to have a relationship with her uncle as her mother died.
Her relationship with her mother was also strained, perhaps because she died so young. Frankie does have a good relationship with Vinney and Vivian, her cousins. Vivian is the daughter of Marco and Vinney is her twin brother.
Frankie meets Corey. Frankie also meets Mitch, her new friend and grows as a person. The character growth with Frankie as well as Corey was on point. The author did an amazing job taking us from one extreme point to another.
This is very much also a romantic suspense novel as there is danger looming in the background. There is underlying fear at all angles of the journey with Frankie and Corey.
This is a very long book. The book was slow at times and I feel that it could have been shortened about a hundred pages and it would have made it better. More to the point and less wasting words is what I prefer personally so perhaps that isn’t how everyone will feel.
This is a good book I just felt it dragged that’s my only critique which is good because the writing was great and the characters had depth and untimely were mature which I like.
What I didn’t like but don’t mind was Corey. He wasn’t the love of my life or a book boyfriend for me but I do feel that he and Frankie are true soulmates. It was sweet and I wish I didn’t feel that I have to provide critique. There is a beautiful relationship with Corey and his sister which I think readers will like. It is sweet how close they are and how deeply they both love each other. Total brother and sister goals.
What I did like as well and am looking forward to is the next book in the series. I am a total sucker for an intertwined standalone friend/family series and that is exactly what we are going to get in the next installment of the series! We are going to get someone else’s story but I won’t spoil that for you ;)
I would definitely read the entire series. I feel that the authors work will only get better with each next book I read. Also, the more you read a stand-alone series, the more you grow to love all of the secondary characters. What’s also fun is you get to read about Frankie and Corey again in a way because I’m sure they’ll make appearances in the Playing With Hearts Series.
This book is an ARC by the ever amazing GivemebooksPR. I am so grateful and I am proving an honest review.
March 6, 2021
Loved this book. It took the time for the character building, it is a crossover, office, mafia, sports romance and each and every genre just enough to keep it intereseting.
Love the fact the story wasn't rushed and took his time. Because of this I could really get into the story. There were lots of plot twists. And the ending was something I didn't suspect. A lot of things I did suspect didn't happen. I love being surprised and this book for sure did. Love that it isn't completely predictable.
Can't wait to see what happens with Mitch, the guy deserves a happy ending. And hope there is a story in the making about Jen and Vinnie.
Love the fact the story wasn't rushed and took his time. Because of this I could really get into the story. There were lots of plot twists. And the ending was something I didn't suspect. A lot of things I did suspect didn't happen. I love being surprised and this book for sure did. Love that it isn't completely predictable.
Can't wait to see what happens with Mitch, the guy deserves a happy ending. And hope there is a story in the making about Jen and Vinnie.
March 11, 2021
It was only supposed to be a one night stand until fate took over!
Frankie is a no nonsense type of chick. She has an extremely over protective uncle which causes her not to have any relationships. One night, to let off steam to goes to a bar looking for a one night stand. That is when she meets Corey. They have one incredible night together and then go their separate ways. Little did they know that they would see each other very soon at Frankie's new job.
Corey is used to getting any girl that he wants. All he wants from girls is sex, no relationships. When he meets Frankie all of that is thrown out the window. He has never felt this way before and will do whatever it takes to be with her.
Frankie and Corey are meant to be. It take a lot from each of them to finally give this relationship a try, but when they do nothing or no one will come between them. Corey is extremely protective of Frankie and will not let anyone hurt her. He is so patient and kind, and will do anything for the woman that he loves. Once Frankie lets all her walls down, she is finally truly happy. The character developed with Frankie and Corey was outstanding. I truly believed that they were changing and growing together, they were meant to be.
This book had a little bit of everything. Sports and mafia romance with an added element of romantic suspense. Someone is after Frankie, and Corey will do whatever it takes to protect his woman. I cannot wait to read the next one!
HEA: Yes
Couple Separation: No
Cheating: No
OW/OM Drama: Yes
Frankie is a no nonsense type of chick. She has an extremely over protective uncle which causes her not to have any relationships. One night, to let off steam to goes to a bar looking for a one night stand. That is when she meets Corey. They have one incredible night together and then go their separate ways. Little did they know that they would see each other very soon at Frankie's new job.
Corey is used to getting any girl that he wants. All he wants from girls is sex, no relationships. When he meets Frankie all of that is thrown out the window. He has never felt this way before and will do whatever it takes to be with her.
Frankie and Corey are meant to be. It take a lot from each of them to finally give this relationship a try, but when they do nothing or no one will come between them. Corey is extremely protective of Frankie and will not let anyone hurt her. He is so patient and kind, and will do anything for the woman that he loves. Once Frankie lets all her walls down, she is finally truly happy. The character developed with Frankie and Corey was outstanding. I truly believed that they were changing and growing together, they were meant to be.
This book had a little bit of everything. Sports and mafia romance with an added element of romantic suspense. Someone is after Frankie, and Corey will do whatever it takes to protect his woman. I cannot wait to read the next one!
HEA: Yes
Couple Separation: No
Cheating: No
OW/OM Drama: Yes
March 11, 2021
We have everything in this one! Sports love, steamy scenes and suspense scene. And there was a few scenes when I was like 😮
Chapter 10 was the conformation I need to know tht these two were hot for each other for good. When they confess they love each other their relationship grew stronger. I love both characters so much especially their love for each other and the banter they have. Like I said there is a few suspenseful scenes that I did not see coming. Smiled ear to ear with this one 😆
There is one character that I feel I love straight away and he has story coming soon. His name is Mitch and he is hot and he can make a killer drink. His and Frankie friendship was perfect just pure friendship and it all started with a drink. He knew as well that these love birds found eachothers missing pieces
☆MUST READ☆
Playing Hard To Get
Summer 2021
Chapter 10 was the conformation I need to know tht these two were hot for each other for good. When they confess they love each other their relationship grew stronger. I love both characters so much especially their love for each other and the banter they have. Like I said there is a few suspenseful scenes that I did not see coming. Smiled ear to ear with this one 😆
There is one character that I feel I love straight away and he has story coming soon. His name is Mitch and he is hot and he can make a killer drink. His and Frankie friendship was perfect just pure friendship and it all started with a drink. He knew as well that these love birds found eachothers missing pieces
☆MUST READ☆
Playing Hard To Get
Summer 2021
March 11, 2021
This was the first book that I have read by Ellie Isaacson and I was thrilled to find out it was the first of a stand alone series.
Meet Frankie and Corey. Both really likeable characters with a lot of chemistry and passion, which is quite obvious from the minute they meet! It was clear from the start of the book that they needed to be together, and I enjoyed discovering the twists that made that to be quite challenging, and learning a bit more about them. However, I still feel like there’s a lot to find about them both and more that could be revealed.
A journey of passion, lust and love.
Meet Frankie and Corey. Both really likeable characters with a lot of chemistry and passion, which is quite obvious from the minute they meet! It was clear from the start of the book that they needed to be together, and I enjoyed discovering the twists that made that to be quite challenging, and learning a bit more about them. However, I still feel like there’s a lot to find about them both and more that could be revealed.
A journey of passion, lust and love.
November 30, 2021
Great Story
This started hot and heavy. Had high hopes with the beginning. Completely fizzled into a slow burn. Put the book down. Picked it up. It was around 50% on my Kindle that things started happening. It was as if it was a completely different book. The characters are very likeable. H has this thing for calling h "doll." Is this the 20's? Kind of cringed with the doll thing. Great suspense woven into the story. It would have been four stars if it weren't so slow until 50%.
This started hot and heavy. Had high hopes with the beginning. Completely fizzled into a slow burn. Put the book down. Picked it up. It was around 50% on my Kindle that things started happening. It was as if it was a completely different book. The characters are very likeable. H has this thing for calling h "doll." Is this the 20's? Kind of cringed with the doll thing. Great suspense woven into the story. It would have been four stars if it weren't so slow until 50%.
April 11, 2021
4 Stars! Who knew a sports / mafia romance was a combination I needed in my life!
Frankie - due to start are the family firm, or in this case baseball team, she wanted one last wild night of freedom. This freedom took the form of one night of passion with hunky stranger 'Luke'. She gets a shock on her first day when Luke turns out to be Corey Lucas, star player on her family's team! Her mafia uncle has threatened every one of her past boyfriends, and has made of point of saying his players are completely off-limits. But can they deny their incredible chemistry any longer?
Corey - star baseball player who's used to his fair share of female attention. Not necessarily a player, but definitely no nun. One-night stands have always just been a way of relieving a bit of stress from his week, however he cannot get the most recent goddess out of his mind. After only one night, he knows he wants more of the nameless siren! When he sees her at the stadium the next day he can't believe his luck, he'd found her! However she seems less than pleased to see him...why?
I loved how you not only had the red hot romance between Frankie and Corey, but also the added drama who's been threatening them both! When the threats increase, can they not save not only their relationship, but also their lives?!
I really enjoyed this story. Part sports romance and part mafia, it had a little bit of everything! Sexy baseball player, angst/drama and of course plenty of steam! I only knocked off a star, because early on there was a bit more OW involvement that I wasn't super keen on. Although without adding any spoilers, it does set-up the story well.
No cheating. No cliff-hanger. HEA guaranteed.
Frankie - due to start are the family firm, or in this case baseball team, she wanted one last wild night of freedom. This freedom took the form of one night of passion with hunky stranger 'Luke'. She gets a shock on her first day when Luke turns out to be Corey Lucas, star player on her family's team! Her mafia uncle has threatened every one of her past boyfriends, and has made of point of saying his players are completely off-limits. But can they deny their incredible chemistry any longer?
Corey - star baseball player who's used to his fair share of female attention. Not necessarily a player, but definitely no nun. One-night stands have always just been a way of relieving a bit of stress from his week, however he cannot get the most recent goddess out of his mind. After only one night, he knows he wants more of the nameless siren! When he sees her at the stadium the next day he can't believe his luck, he'd found her! However she seems less than pleased to see him...why?
I loved how you not only had the red hot romance between Frankie and Corey, but also the added drama who's been threatening them both! When the threats increase, can they not save not only their relationship, but also their lives?!
I really enjoyed this story. Part sports romance and part mafia, it had a little bit of everything! Sexy baseball player, angst/drama and of course plenty of steam! I only knocked off a star, because early on there was a bit more OW involvement that I wasn't super keen on. Although without adding any spoilers, it does set-up the story well.
No cheating. No cliff-hanger. HEA guaranteed.
March 11, 2021
Playing with Fire is actually a mix of different genres which gives it uniqueness and makes it quite original.
I liked the suspense in the story because I wasn’t sure where the danger would be coming from because of the different aspects revolving around the plot and storyline.
Frankie is a bad@$$ lady.
She’s an alpha female that knows what she wants.
She’s strong and tough.
Frankie is savvy and no nonsense.
Corey is sweet and easy going.
He’s fun loving and merry.
He’s living the life his wanted in a job he loves.
One night at a well known bar he and Frankie are instantly attracted to one another.
The lust and passion they have swirls around them is like a thick fog.
The night and day they spend together is leaves an impact on them both.
Frankie and Corey then go about their lives knowing they will never see each other again.
Fate brings them back together again in the form of work.
And both their lives will be forever changed.
I really liked this couple.
They have really different personalities and are somewhat opposites.
But somehow they fit perfectly.
They are balanced together.
I also really liked all the secondary characters as well.
Looking forward to more of this serie.
I liked the suspense in the story because I wasn’t sure where the danger would be coming from because of the different aspects revolving around the plot and storyline.
Frankie is a bad@$$ lady.
She’s an alpha female that knows what she wants.
She’s strong and tough.
Frankie is savvy and no nonsense.
Corey is sweet and easy going.
He’s fun loving and merry.
He’s living the life his wanted in a job he loves.
One night at a well known bar he and Frankie are instantly attracted to one another.
The lust and passion they have swirls around them is like a thick fog.
The night and day they spend together is leaves an impact on them both.
Frankie and Corey then go about their lives knowing they will never see each other again.
Fate brings them back together again in the form of work.
And both their lives will be forever changed.
I really liked this couple.
They have really different personalities and are somewhat opposites.
But somehow they fit perfectly.
They are balanced together.
I also really liked all the secondary characters as well.
Looking forward to more of this serie.
April 30, 2021
The first chapter of this book hand me fanning myself so I knew it was going to be GOOD!
Frankie and Corey drew me in from the very start and I wasn’t able to put this one down. I finished it in one day. What was only to be a one night stand turned into so much more. Corey would take one step forward, Frankie would to and then she would jump back about ten steps.
This book had a little bit of everything...sports/mafia/romance and great secondary characters! I also loved that I thought I knew what was coming with storyline, and then I would read the next chapter and it wasn’t what I was anticipating at all! I am so excited to see how this series progresses.
I am definitely intrigued with Ellie’s writing and am going to check out her other books and series as soon as possible.
“That night at Riverside ruined me and gave me everything. Love was never on my radar. Frankie ripped apart my life. She restacked it, reshaped it, until she was all that mattered to me. And it was all before we made it to her room.”
** I was provided a complimentary advance copy of this novel. This is a voluntary review including my honest opinion. No compensation was provided for this review **
Frankie and Corey drew me in from the very start and I wasn’t able to put this one down. I finished it in one day. What was only to be a one night stand turned into so much more. Corey would take one step forward, Frankie would to and then she would jump back about ten steps.
This book had a little bit of everything...sports/mafia/romance and great secondary characters! I also loved that I thought I knew what was coming with storyline, and then I would read the next chapter and it wasn’t what I was anticipating at all! I am so excited to see how this series progresses.
I am definitely intrigued with Ellie’s writing and am going to check out her other books and series as soon as possible.
“That night at Riverside ruined me and gave me everything. Love was never on my radar. Frankie ripped apart my life. She restacked it, reshaped it, until she was all that mattered to me. And it was all before we made it to her room.”
** I was provided a complimentary advance copy of this novel. This is a voluntary review including my honest opinion. No compensation was provided for this review **
November 13, 2023
The couple: Corey and Frankie
Romance trope: sports; forbidden love
Series: Playing With Hearts
Length: 254 pages
Plot: Corey and Frankie meet one night in a bar and share the hottest night of their lives. Corey is upset that he didn't get her info before he left, but don't worry; when he shows up to work the next morning, in walks the woman of his dreams - Frankie. She's the new PR person for his football team and the owner, her boss, is also her uncle who has connections to the mob. He won't let anyone near his beloved niece and Frankie is afraid to get close to anyone. But he's not the only problem in this new almost-relationship, and both Frankie and Corey will have to put all their trust in one another in order to get through the challenges.
Commentary: Frankie was so wishy-washy that she sometimes got on my nerves, but I loved Corey - he was constant in his affections and was so in tune with everyone around him. While I hate that those girls but I think the aftermath felt authentic - the shame, the embarrassment, the nausea. I felt like it was a good addition to the story that made sense, especially after Frankie was drugged at the bar. I also liked that Corey didn't even flinch when Frankie told him about her past sex life - he was a good guy, all around, and really loved her.
Romance trope: sports; forbidden love
Series: Playing With Hearts
Length: 254 pages
Plot: Corey and Frankie meet one night in a bar and share the hottest night of their lives. Corey is upset that he didn't get her info before he left, but don't worry; when he shows up to work the next morning, in walks the woman of his dreams - Frankie. She's the new PR person for his football team and the owner, her boss, is also her uncle who has connections to the mob. He won't let anyone near his beloved niece and Frankie is afraid to get close to anyone. But he's not the only problem in this new almost-relationship, and both Frankie and Corey will have to put all their trust in one another in order to get through the challenges.
Commentary: Frankie was so wishy-washy that she sometimes got on my nerves, but I loved Corey - he was constant in his affections and was so in tune with everyone around him. While I hate that those girls but I think the aftermath felt authentic - the shame, the embarrassment, the nausea. I felt like it was a good addition to the story that made sense, especially after Frankie was drugged at the bar. I also liked that Corey didn't even flinch when Frankie told him about her past sex life - he was a good guy, all around, and really loved her.
March 11, 2021
Frankie has a life that really isn't her own, and yet, she's still a strong heroine that I really loved. She decides to have one last hookup, and it's Corey who is that lucky man. She rocked his world, but was out of there before he woke up & he doesn't have one detail about her so he's not going to be able to find her again. Luckily enough, he plays baseball & she's now the newest PR for the team, so you already know that will be a complication of course. He's determined to convince her to give him a chance while she's not making things easy so this new journey isn't exactly easy at the end of the day. Throw in some twists of danger to get the heart racing, you have an entertaining story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. My only one issue is I have no clue as to who Corey really is deep down but that's just me, you'll have to decide for yourselves! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 11, 2021
It took me a couple chapters to get into this story but once I did, all bets were off. I adored the concept. The twists and turns. The connection that Frankie and Corey have that was pure passion but also so much more. When you find the one you know, and boy did these two know. Regardless of how much Frankie held him at a distance, she couldn’t help that she felt the same that he did. When things start to implode and all these insane things happen, it is twisted and absolutely crazy! There was a moment of what just happened with a holy smokes moment as well!
Overall, as the first book by this author that I have read, I really enjoyed it. It was a great mix of sports with mafia and so much more. I loved seeing the growth of Frankie in it as well. She went from zero to sixty with a back bone and standing up for who she loves. I highly recommend this story!
Overall, as the first book by this author that I have read, I really enjoyed it. It was a great mix of sports with mafia and so much more. I loved seeing the growth of Frankie in it as well. She went from zero to sixty with a back bone and standing up for who she loves. I highly recommend this story!
March 8, 2021
3.5 stars
It took me awhile to get into this story. The character development was excellent and added to the story, however it felt a little drawn out and overly done. About three quarters of the way through it started to move faster and became more of a page turner and not just a sweet love story. I had my guess how it would end, and while I was close there was a small twist I did not see coming.
The main characters had great chemistry and as the reader you really root for them to get together despite what they think is the best for the other person. Frankie is a strong, independent, complicated character who has let fear lead a lot of decisions. Corey comes across as the "boy next door", not overly hard or possessive, but sweet and determined. Together they bring out the best in each other and make them want more than they think they can have. The roller-coaster of "will they or wont they" is rewarded by the end of the book.
The supporting characters add a lot of "meat" for the story even though their "scenes" were limited but it opened doors for possible additional stories.
While I traditionally like a more angst, suspenseful story, this was well written and had a lot of good things. Its worth the time to read, especially if a more traditional, less "angsty" love story is your preferred story.
It took me awhile to get into this story. The character development was excellent and added to the story, however it felt a little drawn out and overly done. About three quarters of the way through it started to move faster and became more of a page turner and not just a sweet love story. I had my guess how it would end, and while I was close there was a small twist I did not see coming.
The main characters had great chemistry and as the reader you really root for them to get together despite what they think is the best for the other person. Frankie is a strong, independent, complicated character who has let fear lead a lot of decisions. Corey comes across as the "boy next door", not overly hard or possessive, but sweet and determined. Together they bring out the best in each other and make them want more than they think they can have. The roller-coaster of "will they or wont they" is rewarded by the end of the book.
The supporting characters add a lot of "meat" for the story even though their "scenes" were limited but it opened doors for possible additional stories.
While I traditionally like a more angst, suspenseful story, this was well written and had a lot of good things. Its worth the time to read, especially if a more traditional, less "angsty" love story is your preferred story.
March 15, 2021
Wow! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This author is new to me. Playing with Fire is the first book in the Playing with Hearts series. It's Corey and Frankie's story. Corey was just living the dream playing baseball. Frankie was only looking for one wild and crazy night. She thought that it was a simple plan until she meets Corey. I love the chemistry between them. I really enjoyed it! This story is filled with drama, suspense, twists, family, and love. I highly recommend this story! Keep up the great work. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
REVIEW BY CHANTELLE
REVIEW BY CHANTELLE
March 14, 2021
Wow! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This author is new to me. Playing with Fire is the first book in the Playing with Hearts series. It's Corey and Frankie's story. Corey was just living the dream playing baseball. Frankie was only looking for one wild and crazy night. She thought that it was a simple plan until she meets Corey. I love the chemistry between them. I really enjoyed it! This story is filled with drama, suspense, twists, family, and love. I highly recommend this story! Keep up the great work. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
March 8, 2021
Playing With Fire is hot from chapter one!
With Frankie’s past, she has given up on the idea of love. And with Corey’s career, he can’t seem to find a woman that doesn’t want home for money or fame. But Frankie doesn’t want either, and Corey can’t stop thinking about her.
Playing With Fire will keep you turning page after page. Between the steam, suspense and swoon-worthy moments, you want more of Frankie and Corey.
With Frankie’s past, she has given up on the idea of love. And with Corey’s career, he can’t seem to find a woman that doesn’t want home for money or fame. But Frankie doesn’t want either, and Corey can’t stop thinking about her.
Playing With Fire will keep you turning page after page. Between the steam, suspense and swoon-worthy moments, you want more of Frankie and Corey.
March 11, 2021
Hot...hot...hot! Mix in a one night stand, some family drama, super steamy sex and a few curve balls you won’t see coming.
~Kim💜
~Kim💜
March 15, 2021
It is a really good book and It is really interesting.
August 13, 2021
4.5 stars rtc
July 21, 2022
This book was so cheeseball. I started skimming it and I was right about who the culprit was.
March 10, 2021
3,5 STARS
I was struggling really hard because I couldn't get into the story, as it seemed a little... drawn out. However, it changed around 70% of the book and I really got into the story. Though Frankie was not my favourite character, I have to say that she was a very strong heroine and I loved that she didn't let others put her around - I especially loved when she gave her uncle Marco a piece of her mind (you go giiiirl!). Corey was sweet and really determined and they were just perfect for each other. Marco was the villain of the story and I already know that nothing will make me like his character. I can't wait for the next book to come out cause I'm super excited about the next couple and their story.
I was struggling really hard because I couldn't get into the story, as it seemed a little... drawn out. However, it changed around 70% of the book and I really got into the story. Though Frankie was not my favourite character, I have to say that she was a very strong heroine and I loved that she didn't let others put her around - I especially loved when she gave her uncle Marco a piece of her mind (you go giiiirl!). Corey was sweet and really determined and they were just perfect for each other. Marco was the villain of the story and I already know that nothing will make me like his character. I can't wait for the next book to come out cause I'm super excited about the next couple and their story.
October 7, 2021
What? Mafia Baseball - Eye Rolling - DO NOT RECOMMEND
To be fair I did not finish but I did not finish because this is a mafia/baseball romance? The mafia angle was weird from the very start and then when her “Boss”? Is introduced it just makes no sense and I don’t care to know.
The female lead at the bar was over the top and the monologue/dialogue painted her as a prostitute. The female lead and male lead’s meeting had its moments but still weird. What guy these days calls a woman “Doll”? And the male lead is promiscuous and that’s on my deal breaker list. Promiscuous men are not attractive to me and they wouldn’t be attractive or romantic to intelligent, self assured women like who are either characters in the book or readers. All that narrative does is feed the double standard and continue to pit women against one another. I’m not here for that.
SEX SCENES - Yes, I read the first one it was good. I’m sure there are more.
To be fair I did not finish but I did not finish because this is a mafia/baseball romance? The mafia angle was weird from the very start and then when her “Boss”? Is introduced it just makes no sense and I don’t care to know.
The female lead at the bar was over the top and the monologue/dialogue painted her as a prostitute. The female lead and male lead’s meeting had its moments but still weird. What guy these days calls a woman “Doll”? And the male lead is promiscuous and that’s on my deal breaker list. Promiscuous men are not attractive to me and they wouldn’t be attractive or romantic to intelligent, self assured women like who are either characters in the book or readers. All that narrative does is feed the double standard and continue to pit women against one another. I’m not here for that.
SEX SCENES - Yes, I read the first one it was good. I’m sure there are more.
March 13, 2021
I loved it
I loved how beautifully intertwined Ellie made a workplace sports !axis romance. Not easy to do and well balanced. I loved Frankie in all her strength and Corey with his vulnerability and wits. I thought I had it all figured out, but she threw a twist at me in the end.
I loved how beautifully intertwined Ellie made a workplace sports !axis romance. Not easy to do and well balanced. I loved Frankie in all her strength and Corey with his vulnerability and wits. I thought I had it all figured out, but she threw a twist at me in the end.
September 2, 2022
Starts well, easy read, but too slow towards the end. H not thinking about the night he was drugged was not very believable. Would have rated it 4 otherwise. I will definitely read more from this author.
Want to read
September 3, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (9/3/2021)!🎁
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