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.
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Playing for Keeps is a Contemporary Romance by Jill Shalvis. It’s the seventh book in her Heartbreaker Bay series. Each book can serve as a standalone, but characters continue to pop up as the series goes on.
Sadie is a tattoo-artist living paycheck to paycheck and Caleb is a super successful CEO. They have a lot of friends in common, but have always rubbed each other the wrong way. At least, that’s what they claim, but really, they’re just attracted to one another.
After rescuing a dog in the rain one night, the two agree to become co-parents and begin to fall even harder. However, Sadie’s rocky past and Caleb’s alleged commitment issues keep popping up to interfere with their romantic progress.
As a whole, there’s nothing super different about this book compared to Shalvis’ numerous romances. Plenty of humor, romance, and a cute dog to boot. But I struggled to get through it because it was hard to care.
Caleb TOLD the reader he had issues, but his actions spoke differently. He was sweet, romantic, charming, and a super good guy. There was nothing about his behavior that suggested he wasn’t all in for this romance.
One thing that bugged me early in the book–and possibly the reason I couldn’t fully latch onto the character–was when Caleb referred to his sisters as The Coven. Just as Cole did in the far better book by Shalvis, “He’s So Fine.” Once I had that comparison in my head, it took me right out of the story.
Sadie’s past was more complicated and Shalvis did a great job with her issues. She’s easy to relate to. Frustratingly so. Sometimes we are our own worst enemies. I rooted for her even when her stubbornness got the better of her.
Overall, the book is fine. There’s enough good to outweigh the bad, but if you’re new to Shalvis’ writing, I highly recommend you read the Lucky Harbor series instead.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Seven books into the Heartbreaker Bay series and I always end each book with an ear splitting grin on my face. Playing for Keeps opens with the of the most memorable meet-cutes between a three legged dog and her two humans, Sadie Lane and Caleb Parker.This frenemies to love story, a year in the making, has all the right elements. Two kindred souls, make that three kindred souls, as they find their future as a unit.
Following the adoption of Lollipop, Sadie and Caleb navigate the waters of co-parenting. Caleb, a.k.a. “Suits”, appears to be Sadie’s opposite, but this is truly a case of not judging a book by it’s cover. Caleb is absolutely dreamy and I think I most enjoyed the way he broke down the walls Sadie has so painstakingly erected. It doesn’t hurt that there’s a healthy dose of lust to drive their connection, but they really do get each other. In some ways this is a slow-burn romance as they’ve spent a year dancing around each other, but once they start sharing pieces of themselves, things progress rather quickly.
The Heartbreaker Bay series is among my favorites. I’ve loved every book and I’m hoping that the next book in the series is Ivy’s. I highly recommend this book and the series.
Sadie is just fine on her own, mostly. She has put herself on a self imposed “no suit” lifestyle and so far it is working out well. Until one rainy night when a 3 legged dog and a suit made their way straight into her heart.
Caleb was once the wimpy kid, suffering from multiple allergies and born early, he’s been the underdog for most of his life. Now a successful adult, he takes care of others as much as he can feeling like he owes them for their sacrifices with him having such a difficult childhood.
Caleb and Sadie are so similar yet so different. She also suffered a difficult childhood but not for the same reasons as he did. He can see right though her lies and walls and it bothers the hell out of her. Can a seemingly innocent beginning between them lead to more then they could have ever imagined?
Each not willing to budge an inch with their relationship progression and both ready to bolt at the slightest hiccup, this is both a match made in heaven and their worst nightmare. Coming to grips with their pasts and being able to lean on each other during the hard times has them both feeling more then they could possibly understand.
I enjoyed this look at 2 truly messed up people. I mean that in the very best way, they are horribly screwed up, life has them so turned around and upside down they don’t know which way is up anymore. Putting these 2 people together could have been a disaster but it was like peas and carrots. They could relate to one another better than any outsider could have ever dreamed. Getting to a deep rooted honestly that, frankly, more couples could benefit from. Ms. Shalvis rarely disappoints me with a read, and this was no exception. 5 stars for this newest entry in the Heartbreak Bay series, I received an advance copy without expectation for review. Any and all opinions expressed are my own. Make room on the shelf for this keeper.
**4.5 Stars**
I can always count on Jill Shalvis to make me smile while reading a book with heart, humor, and most of all, romance. PLAYING FOR KEEPS follows Sadie Lane, a struggling tattoo artist, and Caleb Parker, an Elon Musk-like tech mogul, on their journey from frenemies to love.
To start off, dog lovers will really enjoy this book. Sadie and Caleb are brought together through their love for an adorable rescue names Lollipop. I adored the way they saw new sides of each other through the care of an animal.
Sadie is a difficult heroine. She is prickly, she has secrets and walls for days, and she has learned the hard way that trusting people is a mistake. I think only Jill Shalvis could have made me not only enjoy Sadie and her constant back and forth (something that usually drives me insane in a character) but identify with her struggles. Caleb is amazing. Sadie teases him for being perfect, and he’s not, but he is perfect for her. I love the way he sees through her defenses to the caring and quirky woman beneath.
I flew through this book because I was utterly engrossed in Sadie, Caleb, and Lollipop. The only disappointing part was the ending felt rushed and I thought Sadie and Caleb still had a few things to iron out before “The End.”
Overall, this book was an absolute delight. I laughed, I smiled, I sighed, and I went online to peruse dogs up for adoption.
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
Playing for Keeps is heartwarming, entertaining, sexy, and adorable. Sadie is a tough as nails, takes no crap, up and coming tattoo artist. She’s busy building her clientele, trying to keep her life together, and keep some distance from a family prone to smothering her. Caleb is a brilliant entrepreneur who has overcome humble beginnings and now works with his older and very nosy sisters. Sadie and Caleb have danced around each other, bickering and fighting, until they wind up adopting the sweetest dog…together. Co-parenting is an interesting adventure and forces them to interact and maybe act on their attraction. In getting to know each other, they find they have more in common than either thought. Playing for Keeps can be read as a standalone in the Heartbreakers Bay series.
Sadie and Caleb couldn’t be more opposite- she’s barely keeping her head above water, he wears thousand dollar suits. Although an attraction’s been brewing, neither one has ever done anything about it…until one abandoned three-legged pup enters the picture and helps them on their way.
There was a lot of push-pull between Caleb and Sadie, mainly coming from Sadie. She has quite a few deep-seated issues that keep her from ever really letting her guard down. It made for some tough times between the two, as Caleb wanted nothing more than to be all-in with her. Luckily Lollipop to the rescue! With the precious pooch bridging the distance between them, Sadie is “forced” to spend time with Caleb and slowly, very slowly, begins to open up.
I admit to being frustrated by Sadie at times, wishing she wasn’t so difficult. But once we learn everything she’s been through, the walls she’s put up and her standoffish behavior is more understandable. When Sadie finally let herself “be” I really enjoyed how she and Caleb were together. Caleb really is quite awesome- so kind, caring, and wanting to help with no expectations.
Caleb, Sadie, and Lollipop all had their obstacles to overcome, but when you’ve got love, anything is possible!
4.5 Stars
Playing for Keeps is the 7th book in the Heartbreaker Bay Series, but can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone novel. Playing for Keeps is the kind of story that hooks you from the very beginning and will keep your eyes glued to the pages right until the very end.
From the moment we meet Sadie, I just knew she was going to be a special character. She was rough and tough on the outside, but had a wonderful vulnerability about her. Her life has been complicated and she never really fit in. And when it came to men, her walls were sky high and she wouldn’t dream of letting anyone get close. That is until Caleb came into her life. You see, Caleb is her exact opposite in every possible way. On the outside, it seems like he’s got everything he could possibly want. That the world is his oyster. But there is so much more to Caleb than meets the eye. When you get to know him, you see a sweet and vulnerable man. A man that has worked hard for everything that he has. A man who was bullied and had to learn to protect himself. A man who doesn’t do relationships, yet is searching for love just like everyone else. So, while Caleb & Sadie might be total opposites, it just takes one night to turn their worlds upside down….
Playing for Keeps was a really enjoyable read for me. It was sweet with just the right amount of drama and sexiness. The characters were wonderful and easy to connect with. I loved Caleb & Sadie together. Not only did they have terrific chemistry, but I just loved the banter between the two of them. Between the vulnerability the two had and Sadie’s sassyness, you just never knew what was going to happen next. They both judged one another and that they had each other pegged, but they couldn’t have been more wrong. They say opposites attract and well, these two were a temptation neither one of them ever saw coming.
I have to say, I really adored Caleb. Not only was he smart, but he was so dedicated. He knew what he wanted and wasn’t afraid to go after it. So, while Sadie challenged him at every possible turn, he wasn’t going to give up. He worked hard to build her trust and break down those walls. Sure, he wasn’t perfect and he made some mistakes along the way. But, believe me when I tell you, Caleb is the kind of guy that you want in your corner. The kind of guy that was patient and understanding. They kind of guy that would give his all to the right woman. And Sadie….Yes, there were plenty of moments where Sadie just drove me nuts. But, she’s not perfect. All her life she just wanted to be normal and like the other members of her family. But, Sadie wasn’t destined to be normal. She was destined to be special, unique and totally her own person. She just needed to find the right man who could love her just the way that she was.
Overall, I found this book to be a really enjoyable read. It was sweet and sexy and totally pulled at your heart. The road to happily ever after wasn’t an easy one for our characters, but it was certainly worth each and every moment. I loved the ups and downs and obstacles along the way. I loved the will they/won’t they moments. I enjoyed watching Sadie & Caleb fight for what they want and seeing their walls come tumbling down. Ugh! I just couldn’t get enough of these two. I laughed. I swooned. I begged for more. This book was everything that I was looking for and had one very satisfying ending. I can’t wait to see who’s story I get to fall in love with next!
Playing for Keeps is book seven in the Heartbreaker Bay series by Jill Shalvis. Wow, Jill did it again with this one. I was in love in the first chapter. Not only did I fall in love with these two main characters, but also, I fell head over heels in love with this little dog.
Mercedes Alyssa Lane, otherwise known as Sadie Lane is a struggling tattoo artist. To make ends meet, she also has to work at a day spa, so twelve hour days are her norm. She works in the Pacific Pier Building and has known Caleb for almost a year now. They have several mutual friends. Whenever they are around each other, she feels that there is some sort of a charge between them, so she turns it around and treats him with sarcasm, anything to keep him at a distance, because the last thing she needs is a man in her life, especially a man who regularly wears fancy suits and drives expensive cars. She’s been off of men for three years now and has no interest in changing that.
Caleb Parker grew up sickly and bullied. But he turned it all around and now turns heads wherever he goes. He can’t explain the feeling he gets whenever he is around Sadie. She clearly wants nothing to do with him but there is that zing between them. Then, on a cold, rainy, February San Franciscan night, in the court yard of the Pacific Pier Building, he sees a little dog cowering in a corner. She’s scared to death. Sadie notices as well and between the two of them, they coax the little thing out of her hiding place. They both fall instantly in love with this little sweetheart that Sadie names Lollipop. So the only thing to do is agree to co-parent her.
“You’re not an easy woman, Sadie.”
“I am a handful. But that’s why you have two hands.”
The sparks fly between Caleb and Sadie and they can no longer resist them. But both of these two have built up such walls around themselves that they make it nearly impossible to break through them, especially Sadie. Her past and the way her mother is broke my heart. Caleb seemed like it was a bit easier for him to admit his feelings. But his three sisters who love their little brother to pieces, get involved and nearly ruin it for him.
“I don’t want to ever be the thing that holds someone back.”
“You don’t hold me back. You make life more.”
“More what?”
“More everything.”
So, when you have two main characters that both have some past ghosts to overcome, two overbearing families, and a little special needs dog that wants you to hold her hand, what does that all add up to? A book that will steal your heart, make you smile, make you swoon, and give you all the butterflies you can handle.
I want to add in here a couple of secondary characters that won my heart. First, Ivy, who owns the taco truck at the Pacific Pier Building. She was Sadie’s go to person and she really did come through for her. Then there was Kel, Caleb’s cousin. He lives and works in Idaho and seems like he is a bit of a cowboy. We all know I have a thing for cowboys! It seems like there might be a story there! One I am hoping with all my fingers and toes crossed, that Jill is going to explore in the near future.
So, yes, I loved this book. But I might possibly say that with every Jill Shalvis review. But I mean it every time. If you haven’t started this series, you are truly missing out! Each book can be read as a stand alone but they do have recurring characters. Every book will win your heart and make you smile. A Jill Shalvis book always makes your day just a little bit brighter.
I must say that Caleb has been on my radar for his turn for some time. It was the last book of the series that let me know he was in much need of that special someone to take over his world and make him more. Sadie had been the woman in the background with snarky comments and jabs to the left and right for a few books. I knew she would need someone that would make her a better version of her. On the outside these two do not appear to be a combination but when you see them together and I mean together. They make a connection.
Both Caleb and Sadie have a softer side they don’t let out too often. This one time brings them together and more happens when neither one of them are looking for it.
I found that Caleb and Sadie made the perfect opposites couple. They were a necessary addition to the Heartbreak bay series. I would feel like something was lost if were did not have this one in the series. I have read everyone of the books in this series and have loved this one just the same. Jill Shalvis give a good story, great characters, friendship, family, and heart.
Jill Shalvis is hands down one of my top favorites and PLAYING FOR KEEPS is just another reason why I love her so much. She always puts a serious note into her books although they seem light-hearted with Jill’s sense of humor generously sprinkled between the pages. And those themes make me think. Seriously think.
Sadie is the square block that wanted to fit into a round hole when she was a teenager. She didn’t fit. Not with her family. Not with her friends. Then she stopped trying and accepted that she’s the one not going with the flow but that acceptance came with blood and tears so it is only understandable that Sadie created a wall around herself. A wall with barbwire.
Admittedly, it takes getting used to her. She’s abrasive for a long while and even after Caleb and Sadie become close she’s quick to judge and condemn. Did I like her? Let me say this: I wasn’t her biggest fan in the beginning but when her history came to light I could nothing but empathize with her. Sadie was a resilient and resourceful young woman, prickly, yes, but her bruised heart healed under Caleb’s care and patience and I fell in love with her along the way.
I think the reason why Sadie resonated with me is because she represents a type of woman most of us are familiar with. Her insecurities were deep-seated, and don’t we all have those? The ones that rattle us and make us shut down?
Caleb is the charismatic, genius-level-IQ, and a little mysterious entrepreneur I was intrigued by in the previous books and let me tell you – he did not disappoint. He, too, has the penchant to retreat emotionally, making himself vulnerable is a thing of the past. No wonder though, he was a scrawny, a little sickly, poor boy, bullied and antagonized but he grew into a force to be reckoned with. Rich, powerful and enigmatic and deeply private. What people don’t know though is that he also has become a caring, thoughtful man, protective about the people in his orbit.
My most favorite interactions in PLAYING FOR KEEPS were Caleb and Lollipop, the three-legged rescue dog. He was adorable with her, being gentle with her because she was a scared, neglected, abused dog, holding her paw in the car because she was afraid. By these actions alone you get a sense what kind of man Caleb is. He showed the same gentleness and thoughtfulness with Sadie, which resembled Lollipop’s demeanor in a way. She, too, retreated when she was scared but Caleb’s endless patience, inert kindness and sweetness achieved what therapists couldn’t. He broke down Sadie’s walls and earned her trust. Their connection wasn’t easy because they always challenged each other and it never would be but that didn’t make it any less solid.
The one person who drove me batty whenever we got a dose of her was Sadie’s mom. What a horrible excuse of a mother. Sadie’s inability to trust, her general disposition which, yes, wasn’t the cheery kind, was ridiculed in a way. God, I despised her. It made so much sense that Sadie had become the way she was. On Caleb’s side were four sisters who were nosy, meddling and a little high-handed. I can’t say I liked them a lot but eventually they grew on me.
This seventh installment in the Heartbreaker Bay series hits all the spots. Heart-warming, witty but with a serious side note about a troubled young woman and an enigmatic man, it also has a little dose of angst and push-and-pull. I was coming off a book hangover and Jill Shalvis pulled me out of it. This author has become a fixture on my reading list and I always get giddy when I have a new story by her waiting for me. I can’t wait to find out who WRAPPED UP IN YOU will be about. My money is on Ivy.
He wasn’t just a billionaire in a suit
When it comes to love, I have been known to be a little insecure at times. For years I saw my hubby with rose-coloured glasses. To me, he’s handsome, smart, caring and sweet. I thought every woman in the world would want him for their own. We’re so different, he is sporty and doesn’t read (WEIRD!!) and survives with little to no sleep. Finally, after 21 years of marriage, the rose-coloured glasses have a few smudges on them. He’s still bloody awesome but he’s not perfect. Seeing Sadie fight her insecurities and believe in Caleb’s love was something I could relate to. Her rose-coloured glasses needed a few smudges to see him clearly…suit and all.
It did not surprise me that Sadie questioned Caleb’s attraction. Sadie appears a little rough around the edges, is stubborn and a wee bit prickly. Caleb on the other hand, he’s a suit-wearing hottie with a successful empire and plenty of money in the bank. So very different but there’s this underlying buzz that neither can deny. Sadie’s hesitant to take their attraction too seriously as she’s not willing to put her heart on the line. Only thing is…Caleb’s Playing for Keeps…
I absolutely LOVED Caleb. After reading the little snippet at the end of Hot Winter Nights I predicted that Caleb was going to be the book-boyfriend for me. My heart melted at his thoughtfulness. I was swooning when we had his POV and I got to see him convince Sadie that her prickly barbs would not deter him. I loved it when he developed his own prickly barbs when it came time to deal with Sadie’s family. To be honest, I would have loved to see a few more interactions with Caleb and Sadie’s mum. I wanted to see him put on his Knight-In-Shining-Armour costume to fight the wicked witch. OK, she wasn’t that bad, but geez, she definitely rubbed me the wrong way.
I wouldn’t say Lollipop stole the show, but she came pretty darn close. Who wouldn’t fall in love with a three-legged puppy that’s had a rough trot up until the minute Caleb Parker found her on a cold and rainy night? Her devotion to her knew co-owners is so cute and I loved that with a little whining, she had them both giving into her. I loved the hand-holding to calm her fears in the car and the sitting on their feet to gain their attention. So cute!!
Sadie and Caleb were interesting, and I found them refreshingly real. I understood Sadie and Caleb’s tolerance of family interference because I could completely relate. What seems intrusive and meddling was done out of love for Sadie and Caleb. Sadie’s family couldn’t understand her, but constantly worried for her health and well being. Caleb’s family have been his carers, providers and protectors since the time he was a sickly kid. Even with all his success, he’s still their little brother.
I absolutely loved Playing for Keeps. It was an emotional story that dealt with two characters that faced challenges in their youth. Caleb has proven himself by becoming successful and repaying his family for all their sacrifice, love and support. Sadie, while still in the process of becoming successful, is finally coming to accept and love herself, scars and all.
In true Jill Shalvis fashion, she drags all of my emotions to the surface. I was sniffling like crazy towards the end of the story and then smiling like a loon by the end. While reading I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough but when it was finished, I was wishing I’d taken my time. Her books are never long enough. A new snippet (The Lemon Sisters, Wildstone Series) at the end has given me something to look forward to. Although, I was kind of hoping that it was going to be Ivy, from the Taco Truck’s turn. Fingers crossed, it may still happen.
If you haven’t tried a Jill Shalvis yet…DO IT!!
This might be my most favorite Heartbreaker Bay novel yet! Sorry, Willa and Keane, #2 is still good.
Caleb is everything! He’s cocky but sweet, kind but demanding. I think with 4 sisters, he has to have strength to deal with that every day. And how he falls for Lollipop is just so much! There’s something about a man rescuing an animal that just does things – fans self.
Sadie is another character you want to leap into the book and hug her – and smack her. Sadie is “broken” although I don’t think I would call her that; she’s a work in progress. She’s had some rough times in her life, from her family to the guy she was dating.
I think their commonalities are what drove Caleb, Sadie and Lollipop together. They all needed each other, even if they didn’t plan for it or expect it.
Definitely a re-read!!
5 star review of Playing For Keeps (Heartbreaker Bay #7) by Jill Shalvis
Whilst this is book 7 in the Heartbreaker Bay series it can most certainly be read as a stand alone; this is Caleb Parker and Sadie Lane’s story.
Caleb and Sadie are total opposites, in fact they have nothing in common until they both rescue an abandoned dog during a storm. Both have unique characteristics that seem to rub each other the wrong way. That is until Sadie see a more “human” and vulnerable side to Caleb that she wasn’t expecting.
Both Caleb and Sadie have been burnt in the past; this story being quite an emotional read at times; my heart just about broke for Sadie. Caleb, who was bullied when he was younger, certainly made up for it as an adult becoming a man others wanted to be.
The chemistry and banter between Caleb and Sadie got to me and I found myself smiling more often than not whilst reading this story. I fell hard and fast for Lollipop, the dog they rescued and decide to co-parent.
Jill Shalvis writes characters that are human, that have flaws, vulnerabilities and are easy to relate too. There is always a lot of depth to her characters and Playing For Keeps is a good example of that.
Another wonderful book in the Heartbreaker Bay series! In book 7 we get Sadie and Caleb’s story and what an emotion packed and swoony story it was. Both Sadie and Caleb had difficulties in their childhood which have impacted them into adulthood. But with the help from a 3-legged pup, the healing has begun.
This definitely was an opposites attract love story. Sadie is a tattoo artist who is trying to make ends meet, she is so jaded and has an emotional wall to keep people out. Caleb is a successful businessman who is kind and wants to take care of those who he cares about. These two have been circling around each other for the past year, but with Sadie’s emotional wall, Caleb never saw his in. Until one rainy night, Caleb rescues a young puppy, they both end up co-parenting little Lollipop. Even though Sadie tried to keep her distance from Caleb, she had to learn to communicate with Caleb to effectively co-parent the little sweetheart. This worked in Caleb’s favor, he sees behind Sadie’s tough exterior and he feels the chemistry and wants to know where it could lead. I adored Caleb so much, he was so patient with Sadie, he knew exactly how far to push, and the way he was with Lollipop, talk about swoon worthy. I think the scenes with Lollipop in the car and needing her paw to be held got to me each time!! There was a lot of interference from family members on both sides that made their way to their happily ever after a bit bumpy but in the end it was all worth it. I loved it all and highly recommend this book!
I was so lucky to have received an ARC, all opinions are my own.
5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has pain, secrets, opposites, and heartbreak.
Before reading this story please read the below books first
Sweet Little Lies (Heartbreaker Bay #1)
The Trouble with Mistletoe (Heartbreaker Bay #2)
One Snowy Night (Heartbreaker Bay #2.5)
Accidentally on Purpose (Heartbreaker Bay #3)
Chasing Christmas Eve (Heartbreaker Bay #4)
Holiday Wishes (Heartbreaker Bay #4.5)
About That Kiss (Heartbreaker Bay #5)
Hot Winter Nights (Heartbreaker Bay #6)
This is Sadie and Caleb’s story. These two are opposites of each other. He is a suit wearing straight laced mogul and she is a yoga pants tattoo artist. But that does not stop the sparks from flying. The both have walls around their hearts for protection but what happens when one start losing there walls will they both fall or is only one of them falling? One dog just might change them both. They both start to show emotions they thought they buried for good. Will they be able to fall and allow love to lead them or are they only falling for the dog?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
Favorite Quotes:
Sadie listened with half her brain, the other half wandering off.
Sometimes life really bit a girl on the ass. Thankfully she had enough padding there to take the hit.
“So she can be bribed.” “You just fed her a fortune in fancy cuts of meats and cheeses,” she said. “Anyone could’ve been bribed with that. Hell, I’d have jumped into a stranger-danger van for that.”
“She dumped me. Twice. Women should come with instructions.” “What would be the point of that?” Sadie asked. “I’ve never actually seen a man read any instructions.”
He sighed. “It’s hard to meet the good ones.” “That’s because they don’t usually frequent the dives you frequent. Go to Target. The female to male ratio is ten to one and they’re already looking for things they don’t need.”
Rocco offered his fork with a grape on it. She shook her head. “I don’t consume wine in pill form.”
She’d long ago taught herself how to take a mental step back from her family and treat them like . . . well, entertainment. She was no longer part of the circus but just an audience member.
My Review:
Every time I have finished a Jill Shalvis book I remind myself of the objective to clear my calendar and read the rest of her listings, which would take a chunk of time, as she has been quite the busy bee; Goodreads lists thirty books to her credit. I was late to this party but I have every intention be that nightmare type guest that never leaves. I am greedy and want them all, past, current, and future works. I am totally enamored. I adore her clever wit and humorous banter as much as her insightful observations and emotive reflections. Her writing is so stunningly agile she can have giggle-snorting and sniffling on the same page. Playing For Keeps was a heart-clenching tale yet well-balanced with levity, swoon-worthy romance, and sumptuous sensuality. I delight her wordplay and worship her altar of used printer cartridges.
Playing for Keeps is quite possibly my favorite book by Shalvis and that’s saying a lot because I didn’t think I’d ever love anything as much as her Lucky Harbor series. I absolutely loved everything about this I’ve, the story had it all from strong emotions to humor. Shalvis managed to take a series topic and bring some healing to the characters.
Said dislikes everything that Caleb represents, however it isn’t long before she realizes that there is way more to Caleb than she first thought. Sadie is afraid to let anyone in, and Caleb has his own pay that he’s not completely over. When these two decide to co-adopt a dog, they have to learn to get along, their new baby is depending on it.
Watching Caleb and Sadie stumble through a relationship was both entertaining and full of emotions. I honestly can’t wait for Shalvis’ next book.
~ Jessica
Playing For Keeps by Jill Shalvis was a pleasant surprise to say the least. I had no idea what would hit me while I read the story! It was emotional, passionate, funny, smart and a very enjoyable ride all the way! I am in love with Caleb and Sadie so much. I had this ridiculous smile plastered in my face throughtout the story. I haven’t read a story that made me feel this good for a long time.
Sadie is a great character. She is sexy, adorable and smart. She had a tough upbringing where everyone is disappointed in her choices. She wears sarcasm and tattoes as armour. She is scared of closeness and feeling. But her shield is showing weakness when The Suit aka Caleb strikes it with his protective, caring and understanding soul. What can I say about this man? I swooned over him so many times and literally drooled over the pages. He is intelligent, confident and successful but he had his own share of early life struggles. A man in suit with tattooes under it is too hard to resist. The enticing push and pull between Sadie and Caleb was an absolutely pleasurable reading experience. Their banter, their chemistry, their mistakes, their heartbreak- everything was beautifully written. The story has perfect balance of rom com and a passionate love story. I loved every moment of it.
Playing for Keeps by Jill Shalvis filled my heart with warmth and happiness. Like a warm blanket and a cup of hot chocolate in a cold winter night. I relished every soft and fuzzy feeling! A must read romance for every Romance lover!
(Received ARC for Honest Review)
Playing for Keeps may be book 7 in the Heartbreaker Bay Series but that doesn’t mean it can’t be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone. Heartbreaker Bay is a place I love to visit it always make me feel like I’m coming home to visit family and friends.
Sadie and Caleb are both a bit quirky and this story starts with them rescuing and co-adopting a adorable three legged puppy called Lollipop what starts of as just co-pet parents soon turns into so much more for a couple that are complete opposites. Both Sadie and Celeb have a lot of baggage from their pasts but sometimes it’s takes two broken souls to help mend each other…….
This is a great read with all the feels you would expect from the very talented Jill Shalvis and you are new to the author this may be the perfect book to start with. Loveable characters with depth and chemistry, flowing banter that is witty and funny and a love story that will tug on your heartstrings. This book left me smiling like a Cheshire Cat and I can’t wait to see what’s next from this author.
For a year Caleb Parker and Sadie Lane have seen one another around. With the Pacific Pier Building a hive of business and friendships and both Caleb and Sadie often in the area it is not surprising that they would see one another over the past year when there for business or pleasure. One night their lives change when they take on the challenge of co-owning an abandoned dog. With forced exchanges of three-legged Lollipop, frequent Lollipop-updates via tex messages and eventually more personal messages between them the two begin to leave their preconceptions misconceptions behind and really get to know one another. As their backstories come out I began to know and really like Caleb and Sadie and see how they might be able to have a future together…well…maybe. Sadie did have a bit more trust and communication issues than Caleb did and her family issues were perhaps harder to surmount than Caleb’s were BUT as the story unfolded the two did finally figure out what was important to them and it just happened to be being a couple.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars