If you’re planning on falling in love… to the seemingly invincible hottie.
you’d better be sure…
Caleb doesn’t do emotions. Growing up the underdog, he’s learned the hard way to build up an impenetrable wall. Perfect for business. Disastrous for relationships. He’s never worried about it before—not until he finally gets behind Sadie’s armor and begins to fall.
… someone is there to catch you.
Both guarded and vulnerable, Sadie and Caleb are complete opposites. Or are they? Shocked at their undeniable connection, can they ever admit to wanting more? That all depends on what they’re each willing to risk.
more
I loved this newest installment in the Heartbreaker Bay series – which always seems to pair the most unlikely of people to fall in love! Sadie Lane is a tattoo artist, however she isn’t as big of a free spirit as others might think. And Caleb Parker wears suits and runs a huge company, but he isn’t as stuffy as some would imagine. These two have been circling each other for a year before finding themselves in the rain together one night and “adopting” a dog together. Co-parenting throws Sadie and Caleb together a lot and forces them to face up to their feelings for each other. Watching them discover the other’s true self is a lot of fun. A great read!
When two souls are meant to be……but they are too stubborn or insecure to act on it……,along comes a Lollipop to make them stick. A wonderfully sweet story that shows us all the feels….and shows us the underbelly of falling in love!
Caleb and Sadie are both unsure about letting love in but co-parenting there 3 legged friend helps them learn to trust and let love in.
Wow Jill Shalvis really is phenomenal. Jill Shalvis always captivated her readers. She really has all the elements that make a great author. She always writes a great and relatable story. Jill Shalvis writes stories that her readers can easily follow along with. Her Heartbreaker Bay series is beyond phenomenal.
In Playing for Keeps we get Sadie Lane and Caleb Parker’s story. Sadie is a tattoo artist and works two jobs. Sadie is a bit stubborn.
Caleb is a self made man who wears suits(thus the nickname Sadie gives him”suits”) Caleb knows hard work. Caleb is very charismatic and sexy.
Lollipop is a rescue dog with only three legs and in need of love. Very sweet and so adorable. Will definitely melt your heart.
When Sadie and Caleb agree to co-parent a beautiful three legged dog, Lollipop, things slowly heat up. Everything Sadie thought Caleb stood for and was turns out to be completely wrong. The chemistry between Caleb and Sadie is undeniable. As Caleb and Sadie take care of Lollipop they really begin to let each other in. On the outside they both seem total opposites but once you peel back the layers they soon discover they have alot more in common than they thought.
Playing for Keeps is truly one of the best books ever. It is a beautifully written story. Definitely a must read. Jill Shalvis captures the essentials of the human heart and soul. Caleb and Sadie as well as the secondary characters catch your attention and keeps it throughout the entire story. I definitely found myself laughing, crying and having heartswooning moments. I just adore Lollipop. My heart is all for Lollipop. All the characters in Playing for Keeps are very well written and developed. Caleb, Sadie and Lollipop just leapt straight from the pages and into my heart and soul. Jill Shalvis mesmerized me completely. Playing for Keeps left me feeling better than I felt before reading it. I could not put this book down. I found myself becoming emotionally invested in Caleb, Sadie and Lollipop’s story. My heart just melted for Lollipop. Reading Playing for Keeps was a pleasure. Jill Shalvis kept my attention from page one through the end. I was sad to see this story end. You able to put it down. You will definitely fall in love with Heartbreaker Bay and all it’s resident’s especially Lollipop. I want to live in Heartbreaker Bay. I want a dog just like Lollipop. This definitely is a phenomenal and exquisite read. A book for any romance and animal lover. Grab your copy now and join me and so many others on a trip to Heartbreaker Bay and you will definitely fall in love.
Can an unconventional tattoo artist who lives in her yoga pants and a self made man fall in love?
Sadie is struggling tattoo artist who also works another job just to make ends meet. She lives in her yoga pants and can’t imagine having to wear a suitor formal clothing. And then there is Caleb who is definitely all buttoned up and wears a suit to work and is a self made man.
But then they both manage to adopt a dog together. Okay, more accurately, the dog brings them together. Sadie realizes that not only is Caleb a hottie but someone who is also just as vulnerable as she is. Caleb is leery of his attraction to Sadie at first but he is one who can’t stop himself from helping her. He gets her heat fixed because that is who he is. He decides that he and Sadie will have joint custody of Lollipop, their rescue. And he will take care of all of the bills.
Caleb might have more money in the bank than Sadie can ever dream of having her own account, but he is vulnerable and lovable. He can deliver the barbs with the rest of them but also he is also very tender when needed. He looks out for those he cares about. How many men would take the time on a rainy night to stop and rescue a 3 legged dog? Caleb would and does.
One of the many things I love about Jill Shalvis’ books are that her characters are real people. And even better there are always pets. The characters are well developed and likable. The plot line is real. And the scenery is always somewhere I want to be. I want her characters to be my friends. And that is the sign of a great author.
I honestly can say that I think I have read all of Jill Shalvis’ novels. And if you go back to view her early novels, such as “Out of This World,” and compare it to her latest release, you will see her strengths as a writer have always been her characters. And her writing style has been evident since her early novels and it just gets better with every release.
I did receive a copy of this novel from the publisher prior to publication in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
I absolutely loved Playing for Keeps by Jill Shalvis. I was immediately drawn in to Caleb and Sadie’s story. Caleb is all work and no play until he runs into Sadie. Sadie hasn’t had much luck with the opposite sex and has demons of her own to face. My heart broke for both of them and drew me deeper into their story. Caleb approached Sadie cautiously, not wanting to scare her off, meanwhile Sadie is so full of spunk and sass. They were absolutley perfect together. What a great addition to this series.
I loved this book. I loved it so much I hope Jill writes another book about Caleb, Sadie and Lollipop. Sadie is a hoot although she had a very dark upbringing. Caleb is every woman’s dream man and Lollipop is the glue that holds them together.
Don’t miss this book! I received an ARC in return for a fair and truthful review.
I’ve enjoyed all of the books in The Heartbreaker Bay series, but, I think this one was the best. Lollypop and her interaction with “her humans” gave the story a different twist. Sadie and “Suits/Caleb” are very ‘human’
characters, that is, they are NOT perfect. That makes them more relatable/enjoyable.
Sweet, throughly enjoyable.
Jill Shalvis NEVER disappoints! Playing for Keeps is a story that brings the main characters together as they save a dog. Sadie has been misunderstood and taken to cutting as a way to deal with her emotions. Caleb throws himself into his work to make sure he, or his family, never had to go without again. As they care for Lollipop, they both lower their shields and realize that they are more alike than they could have imagined. The supporting characters, who we’ve met in previous Heartbreaker Bay stories, continue to add humor and depth to the series.
I just loved this book, I couldn’t put it down. It was an addictive low angst read, a lighthearted contemporary romance that reminded me of all the reasons why I fell in love with this author’s writing style. She has this way of engaging her readers through her entertaining characters and romantic, feel-good stories.
I think what I loved most about this book is the dynamic between Sadie and Caleb and how they really fit well together. Their chemistry and connection felt real, sweet and believable. These characters are actually suited for each other and make perfect sense as a couple. Their relationship develops naturally. I loved how their feelings didn’t waver and while they had insecurities and doubts they were genuine.
So the story follows Sadie and Caleb who strike up an unexpected friendship. They rescue and co-adopt an adorable mutt that has been through hell. Sadie is a spirited, sassy tattoo artist who takes no crap. She is easy to relate to and is both hilarious and unpredictable. On the surface Caleb is refined, professional and very private. Business is his priority, his work has always been his happy place and he is a well-respected venture capitalist. But beneath the disciplined façade lies a heart of gold. His past is painful but you wouldn’t know it. Caleb is a man of integrity and generosity. He is such a nice guy, sweet, loyal and authentic.
There is of course, a little bit of drama. There are moments where your heart will fill with sadness. And there are also moments where you will find this read to be extremely entertaining and sweet.
4 1/2 STARS!
Super cute and heartwarming! We’ve seen them circling each other for awhile now, and in this latest installment of Heartbreaker Bay, Sadie & Caleb finally get up close and personal! Rescuing a dog together makes for an adorable story line and with the past each of them bring to the table, we have a lot of drama to sift through as they work their way towards happily-ever-after. Really enjoyed their story!
Sadie Lane has always considered herself a disaster waiting to happen. She never feels like she measures up, so she puts a strong defense up around her heart. She comes off as brash and bold … when inside, she’s always waiting for the next disappointment. She’s played hard ball over the attraction she feels for the last year, but rescuing a dog in the middle of a storm with Suits has her defenses weakening.
Caleb Parker AKA Suits has worked hard to create the life he currently has, but he too has a past he’d love to outrun. When circumstance puts him in close contact with the woman he’s been eyeing for months, he decides to use it to his advantage and try to get under her skin. Co-parenting this adorable dog just might be the best thing that ever happened to their non-relationship!
Jill Shalvis has been a #oneclick and #goto author for me ever since I read her series Lucky Harbor. I’m pretty sure I’ve read every book this woman has written and, on some level, enjoyed the heck out of them. They’re never heavy books. Yes, they deal with all kinds of relatable and realistic *themes*, but it’s never so focused on those that the couple’s journey is lost. Never. At least as far as I can remember right this minute LOL So obviously, when I’m in a #readingslump, she’s always one of the authors I turn to. And it pays off every time!
You guuuuuys, Caleb was the absolute best *swoon* I cannot express how great of a character he was. And he matched Sadie ridiculously well. Characterization was SO on-point in this story. When you read the blurb, you’re going to immediately think this is an opposites attract thing but are they really opposites??? ….. hmmmmmmm inquiring minds …. (lol) All the #feels in this story melded together so nicely that I kinda wish I didn’t pay as much attention to the story so I could read it again right now! Your heart will be full of all kinds of feelings all at the same time. While a tear may fall from your eyes, you might be smiling. Man, Jill does such a good job with this.
Okay, that’s enough …. Just #oneclick the book. Just #oneclick everything she’s written. I promise you they will all be heartwarming and entertaining with just the right level of heat!
This is my first book I have read in this series and by this author but I have been living under a rock because this author is amazing and she can write a love story that will have you swooning and crying and rooting for the under dogs. This was an amazing story that stole my heart right from the beginning and kept me glued to the kindle to the very end.
We get to meet two people that are opposites in every way. Sadie is a tattoo artist and Caleb is a business mogul. When these two meet on one stormy night to rescue a dog their worlds are about to change and it is going to take them by surprise. Caleb grew up in a rough life always being bullied and sickly but he stayed strong and was determined to make something of his life and he has. Where as Sadie comes from a dysfunctional family well mother that there is no wonder why she is like she is. I would guard my heart like hell if I had a mother like that.
When all is said and done these two will have to let down their walls they have built around themselves and decide if letting love in is worth it. This is a must read story about love and healing.
Jill Shalvis is a wonderful storyteller. If you have never read one of her books try one, you will not be disappointed. Her books are contemporary stories that are easy reads with realistic characters and perfect comedic timing. She is the master at creating all the feels. You truly can’t stop reading once you pick it up.
I have been waiting for Caleb’s story since I read Spencer’s story and Jill Shalvis did not disappoint me. Who cannot love a three legged dog that chose her humans? Lollipop, from the first, saw through Caleb’s suits into the man underneath the armor, she knew that he was her human. Sadie took one look at Lollipop and fell in love she took a little longer to see through Caleb’s perfect grooming to the man underneath. Sadie and Caleb were drawn to each other even as Sadie protested. Through sharing Lollipop they were able to finally see each other. Lollipop and Sadie were two of a kind both weary of letting new people in and both had shadowed eyes hinting at the adversity they had faced in their lives. Caleb broke down Sadie’s walls through Lollipop with a ton of patience and love. My favorite part had to be when Sadie found out that Caleb holds Lollipops paw while driving to calm her. Who could not fall in love with a man like that. Caleb and Sadie were made for each other and once they made it through all of their miscommunication they found their perfectly imperfect love.
Lindas Book Obsession Reviews “Playing for Keeps” by Jill Shalvis, Avon Books, January 22.2019
Jill Shalvis, Author of “Playing for Keeps” has written a delightful romantic and entertaining story. The Genres for this novel are Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Contemporary Fiction and Romance. The time-line for this story is in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events in this story. The author describes her characters as dysfunctional, complex and complicated.
What could be better than a storyline about girl meets boy, or boy meets girl and both meet dog? Tattoo-Artist Sadie Lane sees handsome, charismatic and successful Caleb Parker bending over something and talking quietly. Of course, for all of the animal lovers, it is scared dog. Both of them coax it out, and they decide to keep it. Actually just being acquaintances, they decide to co-parent and share the dog. After taking the dog to the vet, Caleb makes sure that the dog has everything she needs to be comfortable. They do send each other proof of life pictures of the dog when it is each one’s turn to have her.
Both Sadie and Caleb, have their own secretive pasts. Sadie is barely making ends meet, and has the pressure of her sister’s wedding. Caleb does have support from his sisters who tend to investigate any girl he is seeing for his protection. Caleb comes from a hard background as well, and underneath his hard shell is a kind and giving guy. To protect herself from and emotional pain, Sadie plays hard to get, and has a hard shell as well.
I appreciate that the author discusses handicapped pets, emotional problems, family, friendship, communication, love, and hope. I would recommend this enjoyable novel for readers who enjoy this genre. Happy Reading!
Sadie, Caleb, and of COURSE Lollipop, got me hook like and SINKER in Playing for Keeps by Jill Shalvis. I am a life long fan of her books, and this book just had all of the things I love about her books, and then some.
Caleb and Sadie have both had their fair share of struggles in life, and neither of them seems to be looking for their forever person, until one night they rescue an adorable 3 legged pup together and name her lollipop. Parenting a new pup on your own is hard enough, but add in a coparent that isn’t looking for a handout from anyone, and you’ve got a fun recipe for a fantastic book!
I really loved Sadie and felt that I really connected to her on many different levels. She is fiercely independent and wants to do things on her own, no matter how many jobs she has to have or hours she has to work. She doesn’t need a man in her life to solve her problems, but cannot resist the pull that Caleb has to him whenever they ‘re around one another.
Caleb grew up the underdog in life and to say that he has reinvented himself is a complete understatement. He is hugely successful, is totally committed to his family and taking care of others, but is also totally addicted to work and sometimes wants to take care of others TOO MUCH. I was totally smitten with Caleb but sometimes wanted to smack him. Haha. These two are a perfect match. I really couldn’t put this book down. I loved their interactions and even loved the issues that they faced together as a couple and apart. They’re both surrounded by awesome supportive friends and it made me want to pack my bags and move to Heartbreaker Bay and throw a penny in the fountain.
Keep the amazing books coming, Jill!
In this seventh book in the Heartbreaker Bay series, Caleb Parker, super successful entrepreneur and tattoo artist Sadie Lane start a relationship instigated by the rescue of a stray dog which they adopt together. Turns out these two have been circling around each other for about a year, but it’s Caleb that finally makes a move.
There couldn’t be two more different characters on the surface, but underneath they both have secrets. Caleb is willing to move forward, but Sadie rather that Caleb not know all of her past. I really loved the dynamics between Caleb and Sadie, all the tension just under the surface, and how Caleb woos Sadie with his words. It was all very heated and romantic.
It was fairly easy to see where the conflict was going to come from in this story, but that didn’t take anything away from Caleb and Sadie. I was so very engaged in their story and the slow and steady progression of their relationship. Like most Jill Shalvis books, I got hooked right away and pulled into the story so completely I can’t put it down.
Lollipop was completely adorable and was the perfect device to get them together. And I have to mention “The Coven” – what a perfect nickname!
So overall, I loved everything about Playing for Keeps. It’s great to read a book and feel good when you are done. It’s another great installment in a fabulous series.
An ARC was provided for review.
This book is #7, in the Heartbreaker Bay series. This book can be read as a standalone novel. For reader understanding, and to avoid spoilers, I recommend reading this great series in order.
Caleb has a lot going for him. Successful, charming, keeps his promises, etc. So when he co-owns a loving animal with someone who has a hard time trusting him, he is shocked. Sadie has been involved in a sort of hate-you thing with him and now he is trying to bring it to an end. He needs her to understand him on a new level.
Sadie cannot believe it when she realizes that Caleb has been honest with her. He means what he says too? How can a girl hold off from starting the feels? She and Lollipop will just have to work at it. Right? Well ok, she will just work at it.
This was such a fun and sexy book! Right from the very beginning I was laughing and devouring each page as fast as I could. Always a fan of this series, this new title was a great installment. Very much worth the read. I highly recommend it!! I give this a 5/5 Kitty’s Paws UP!
***This ARC copy was given by Edelweiss and its publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Playing for Keeps is the seventh book in the Heartbreaker Bay series. They say opposites attract. Caleb and Sadie couldn’t be more different. But when they have a common goal, they find that they aren’t so different after all. I loved their story, and I loved the dog. This is one not to be missed!