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Monkey Business Trio #1
Playing Dirty
Shaw Matthews plays to win, and he intends to snag a coveted partnership at San Diego's hottest sports agency by signing America's top athlete. Only one woman stands in his way: rival agent Cassidy Whalen. But eliminating the competition will be Shaw's pleasure when he concocts an ingenious plan to seduce Cassidy and show the beautiful ballbreaker who's the better man for the job. That is, until Cassidy turns the tables—and their steamy encounters start breaking all the rules. Cassidy has worked hard to make it in a man's cutthroat arena, and she isn't going down without a fight, not even against the six-two alpha hunk whose rock-hard body awakens desires she's never known before. As Cassidy shares night after night of unending passion with Shaw, the game begins to change. Now Cassidy stands to lose everything—unless a fiery contest of wills can become a winning proposition for two people who keep raising the stakes.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2015
About the author
C.L. Parker
13 books912 followersC. L. Parker is a romance author who writes stories that sizzle. She’s a small-town girl with big-city dreams and enough tenacity to see them come to fruition. Having been the outgoing sort for all her life—which translates to “she just wouldn’t shut the hell up”—it’s no wonder Parker eventually turned to writing as a way to let her voice, and those of the people living inside her head, be heard. She loves hard, laughs until it hurts, and lives like there’s no tomorrow. In her world, everything truly does happen for a reason.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
May 16, 2015
3-3.5 stars
Cassidy Walden and Shaw Matthew work as sport agents for the same company, but they are rivals on the field. Indeed, the one who will sign a contract with Denver Rockford, a famous NFL player, will also become the new partner at Striker Sports Entertainment.
This is an enemies to lovers story. Shaw and Cassidy have a love-hate relationship, they can't stand each other, but they can't deny the attraction between them. Things between them are explosive..No need to say that sex scenes were really steamy and hot!They both don't want to figure out what they feel for each other, actually, they refuse to do it.
I wasn't enjoying it at first and I struggled with it. Luckily, the story warmed up.
I didn't have big issues with Shaw or Cassidy, but sometimes they acted a bit too childish in my opinion. I guess I have to see how things will go in the next book to make up my mind.
There were many things I liked..but at the same time they were also many things that didn't sit well with me, that's why I couldn't rate it higher.
Shaw is a real playboy, he's a charmer, beautiful and really determined man.
Cassidy is a determined and confident woman as well and she will try her best to gain the job position.
There were many secondary stories in this book, but you won't feel confused. I loved Landon and I hope we will get more of him in the next book <3
I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series, especially because of the way this one ended. Ugh.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I really want to know what will happen next!
This is book one in the Monkey Business series and it's not a stand-alone.
Arc kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2020
This is actually a very good book. The power play between the characters is palphabel hot. I do enjoy power play romance. What started as office romance turns into heated attraction between the characters.
Shaw and Cassidy are like cat and dog. They both competitive. So competitive that they both determine to hate each other. But they can not deny their attraction towards another. Cassidy is no damsel in distress. She is not afraid to compete in a sport industry. Shaw is alpha male that ooze confidence.
Their sex is scorching hot. So hot it burns my ear when I listen to the audiobook. I do not think there is need to have so many secondary characters. Maybe the author planning to have follow up books on each of the secondary characters?? I do not know.
Well overall this book is very enjoyable.
4 stars
Shaw and Cassidy are like cat and dog. They both competitive. So competitive that they both determine to hate each other. But they can not deny their attraction towards another. Cassidy is no damsel in distress. She is not afraid to compete in a sport industry. Shaw is alpha male that ooze confidence.
Their sex is scorching hot. So hot it burns my ear when I listen to the audiobook. I do not think there is need to have so many secondary characters. Maybe the author planning to have follow up books on each of the secondary characters?? I do not know.
Well overall this book is very enjoyable.
4 stars
June 13, 2015
2.5- 3 stars
Playing Dirty had potential..it had lots of potential.I love an office romance where its a love/hate, so to speak, type of relationship. And throw in A feisty red head who is at the top of her game in her business and the sexy guy that's just as talented.. both of them vying for the same spot as partner at one of the top sporting agencies in the country. Which ever one of them could bring in the current hottest NFL QB to their team gets the spot. Yep, I was pulled in at chapter one.
Shaw... it was the notoriety of being Denver's agent that I craved most. Cassidy stood in the way of that. I meant to plow her down, but she wasn't going to make it easy. She was a real man-eater..She was good, she was also a bore. And a Bitch
Cassidy- Shaw Matthews was one of THOSE people. That person others naturally gravitated toward..you'd think he was the sun or something. And because the universe had some sort of vendetta against me, he just had to be good looking on top of all that. He had it all, and now he wanted my job too..
See..serious potential! The sparks were there! They loathed each other and thought the worst of each other. But still, there was this amazing sexual chemistry and the more they fought, the hotter they got. But every time, it was angry sex. Always angry sex..but each thought that maybe they had to play a little dirty to get what they wanted.. by any means necessary.
One problem: I hated her. How was I going to stick my dick inside someone I despised?
And that was where I had trouble connecting with them, or even rooting for them to see more in each other that just adversaries who had great sexual chemistry. There was never, at any point, a soft feeling expressed by either of them for the other..to each other or inside their own heads. It seemed like they really really didn't like each other. And well..even by the end, which ended in a cliffhanger, I still didn't see any way they could possibly end up together. Cassidy even mentions a few times the boy she left at home.. across the country, that had her heart for one moment in time and still holds a part of it. I felt more for her and this other character that I never got to meet than I ever did for her and Shaw.
For me, I need the couple to connect in other ways besides just the super hot sex. Yes, the super hot sex is awesome.. but I need to believe that the couple has another deeper, softer connection. It's ok if they don't like each other.. as long as you can still see through all the animosity to the potential of there being more feelings there. This just didn't hit that mark for me..
I enjoyed C.L.'s writing style, and I liked both the characters of Cassidy and Shaw separately. Just not together. C.L. also knows how to write some major hot sexy times ;). I'll definitely try more from her, because I had no issues with the flow of the story, the characters, the sex.. all that was fine. It was just that Shaw and Cassidy where a couple that I don't see a connection with..so I'll skip the next part of their story..
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley
Playing Dirty had potential..it had lots of potential.I love an office romance where its a love/hate, so to speak, type of relationship. And throw in A feisty red head who is at the top of her game in her business and the sexy guy that's just as talented.. both of them vying for the same spot as partner at one of the top sporting agencies in the country. Which ever one of them could bring in the current hottest NFL QB to their team gets the spot. Yep, I was pulled in at chapter one.
Shaw... it was the notoriety of being Denver's agent that I craved most. Cassidy stood in the way of that. I meant to plow her down, but she wasn't going to make it easy. She was a real man-eater..She was good, she was also a bore. And a Bitch
Cassidy- Shaw Matthews was one of THOSE people. That person others naturally gravitated toward..you'd think he was the sun or something. And because the universe had some sort of vendetta against me, he just had to be good looking on top of all that. He had it all, and now he wanted my job too..
See..serious potential! The sparks were there! They loathed each other and thought the worst of each other. But still, there was this amazing sexual chemistry and the more they fought, the hotter they got. But every time, it was angry sex. Always angry sex..but each thought that maybe they had to play a little dirty to get what they wanted.. by any means necessary.
One problem: I hated her. How was I going to stick my dick inside someone I despised?
And that was where I had trouble connecting with them, or even rooting for them to see more in each other that just adversaries who had great sexual chemistry. There was never, at any point, a soft feeling expressed by either of them for the other..to each other or inside their own heads. It seemed like they really really didn't like each other. And well..even by the end, which ended in a cliffhanger, I still didn't see any way they could possibly end up together. Cassidy even mentions a few times the boy she left at home.. across the country, that had her heart for one moment in time and still holds a part of it. I felt more for her and this other character that I never got to meet than I ever did for her and Shaw.
For me, I need the couple to connect in other ways besides just the super hot sex. Yes, the super hot sex is awesome.. but I need to believe that the couple has another deeper, softer connection. It's ok if they don't like each other.. as long as you can still see through all the animosity to the potential of there being more feelings there. This just didn't hit that mark for me..
I enjoyed C.L.'s writing style, and I liked both the characters of Cassidy and Shaw separately. Just not together. C.L. also knows how to write some major hot sexy times ;). I'll definitely try more from her, because I had no issues with the flow of the story, the characters, the sex.. all that was fine. It was just that Shaw and Cassidy where a couple that I don't see a connection with..so I'll skip the next part of their story..
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley
August 2, 2015
Playing Dirty in three words: Entertaining. Sassy. HOT!!! This was the first book I’ve read by C.L. Parker and I couldn’t put it down. Shaw and Cassidy are sports agents vying for partnership at an elite sports agency. Whoever gets star quarterback Denver “Rocket Man” Rockford to sign as his agent will win the partnership.
This is a true enemies to lovers story in every sense. Cassidy and Shaw dislike each other, and by dislike I mean hate. Unlike similar stories though, their animosity isn’t easily resolved in the first few chapters. It’s their feud that fuels Cassidy and Shaw’s competition to sign Rocket and propels the entire storyline. Their verbal sparring and attempts to one-up each other were really enjoyable.
Simmering beneath the bitterness is some serious sexual tension and before long, the hostility between Shaw and Cassidy spills over into the bedroom. In fact, it’s fair to say this is more of an enemies and lovers story. Playing Dirty is erotica at its very best. The sex scenes are well written and absolutely panty-soaking hot. More importantly, however, the sex scenes are interwoven with an entertaining storyline and interesting characters. I loved Shaw. He comes across as an arrogant jerk but then we slowly discover that appearances are deceiving and there’s a lot that he’s hiding.
My only problem with the book is that it ends in a cliffhanger! Nowhere in the book description does it indicate this isn’t a standalone. Yes, this is the first book in the Monkey Business series, but I thought each book would deal with a different couple. I’m not sure why another book is needed to resolve Shaw and Cassidy’s story when it could easily be wrapped up in this book. I hope this isn’t another case of an author taking one good idea and dragging it out into a long, tired series.
***ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.***
This is a true enemies to lovers story in every sense. Cassidy and Shaw dislike each other, and by dislike I mean hate. Unlike similar stories though, their animosity isn’t easily resolved in the first few chapters. It’s their feud that fuels Cassidy and Shaw’s competition to sign Rocket and propels the entire storyline. Their verbal sparring and attempts to one-up each other were really enjoyable.
Simmering beneath the bitterness is some serious sexual tension and before long, the hostility between Shaw and Cassidy spills over into the bedroom. In fact, it’s fair to say this is more of an enemies and lovers story. Playing Dirty is erotica at its very best. The sex scenes are well written and absolutely panty-soaking hot. More importantly, however, the sex scenes are interwoven with an entertaining storyline and interesting characters. I loved Shaw. He comes across as an arrogant jerk but then we slowly discover that appearances are deceiving and there’s a lot that he’s hiding.
My only problem with the book is that it ends in a cliffhanger! Nowhere in the book description does it indicate this isn’t a standalone. Yes, this is the first book in the Monkey Business series, but I thought each book would deal with a different couple. I’m not sure why another book is needed to resolve Shaw and Cassidy’s story when it could easily be wrapped up in this book. I hope this isn’t another case of an author taking one good idea and dragging it out into a long, tired series.
***ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.***
April 27, 2015
Wow. Just. Wow...This book has left me with all sorts of feelings. The most prominent being sickness since I finished it (in one sitting, no less) and that I have no idea what is going to happen. All I need to know is when the 2nd and 3rd books are going to be released because I will click on that pre-order button so fast, you wouldn't even catch it! Playing Dirty was absolutely, beyond fantastic and I literally feel like I cannot get enough. The H and h in this book are so made for each other that I felt myself cheering them on from the other side of my Kindle. The banter back and forth was phenomenal, so realistic and so lust inducing that it makes me hot just thinking about it now. I love the different angle in this one - two sport's agents pitted against one another to land a career changing partnership, but also two broken people who are just looking for their own selves in the process. Ms. Parker's character formation and the emotions that she poured into her writing made me love this book all the more. It was also so quirky and unique and crazy creative that I laughed out loud a few times. "My Justin Timberlake was about to shed the suit and tie to get his Marshall Mathers on." Well said and so incredibly fitting for the timing of this quote.
Honestly, there is NOT ONE PART that I didn't love about this book. The writing was fabulous, the characters were amazing and the overall storyline is something that I will reread many times over. Well done, Ms. Parker - you have a fan for life! Now, I just need the 2nd book!!!
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Honestly, there is NOT ONE PART that I didn't love about this book. The writing was fabulous, the characters were amazing and the overall storyline is something that I will reread many times over. Well done, Ms. Parker - you have a fan for life! Now, I just need the 2nd book!!!
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 28, 2015
This did not work on me at any level. Unlikable characters, no growth, nasty non use of condoms, cliffhanger. It was one long hate-fuck between the two as they fought for partnership in their company that had no emotional elements or anything romantic to it. I was extremely disappointed especially seeing all of the glowing reviews.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
April 9, 2015
3.5 stars!! I was drawn to this book because of the setting, I have worked in sports management for over 20 years so this was a kind of must read for me. Two fiercely competitive people who hate each other, always in competition against each other and now that competition is real man vs woman, who will land the contract and what will they do to get it?
As we all know there is a fine line between love and hate and though this is really just starting to ramp up I cannot wait to see where it is going to go. These two really are two peas in a pod but are just a little too blind to see it.
Shaw has his own demons as does Cassidy but could these two be just what each other needs? I certainly hope so. (full review to come)
As we all know there is a fine line between love and hate and though this is really just starting to ramp up I cannot wait to see where it is going to go. These two really are two peas in a pod but are just a little too blind to see it.
Shaw has his own demons as does Cassidy but could these two be just what each other needs? I certainly hope so. (full review to come)
May 11, 2015
Cassidy and Shaw are both very talented and successful sports agents.
They're both working for the same company and they can't stand each other!
And now their boss told them, that whoever wins this next huge football client, will become new partner.
LET THE GAMES BEGIN!
Shaw decides to seduce the 'Ice-Queen', to make her lose focus.
And Cassidy .... well, her friends put that exact same idea in her head....
Now they have to not only fight to be the better agent and get the job - they have to fight against their growing feelings for each other.
But pfff - who has feelings - not those two ☺ at least they both think they still hate each other..
Let's see how long it takes them to get their HEA ☺
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO SHAW & CASSIDY??
WILL THERE BE A HAPPY END????
Or will there be a horrible Cliffhanger??
I'm not telling you, of course ☺
I don't want to spoil your reading pleasure ☺
OK - there WILL be a Cliffy :/
I kinda thought that the next book in the series would be about secondary characters - but nope - Shaw and Cassidy's story will take longer than this one book! I LIKE!!!
_______________________
Great Story!
I really enjoyed reading it.
You fall in love with Shaw really fast and we kind of get the impression from him, that it was Cassidy who's responsible for their constant fighting. She had the wrong impression of him, before he ever started working at the company. Shaw was actually looking forward to working with her...but she insulted him with her first words to him :( Poor guy.
But it's not her fault at all - it's just all those rumors she heard - all not true of course ☺ And because he's just so good-looking and comfortable in his own skin - Cassidy immediately thought he must be a horrible person.
It's really funny to read about their constant fighting and insulting each other....
But there's also this huge attraction and the sizzling sexiness whenever they're in a room together!
You just know that they're perfect for each other - they just need to realize it...
We have LOTS of sexy scenes!!!
Some of them might not actually happen though ☺☺☺
There are some great characters in this book - can't wait to read more about them all in the next books!
Some things I didn't like all that much..
Nothing too bad - it was just a bit too much redundant stuff in there for me...
And they both talk a bit too much about themselves - how great they are .... not really humble those two ☺
PLAYING DIRTY was a great start to a new series! Very sexy & funny & adorable!! GO. GET. IT. ♥
And now please Ms. Parker - GIVE. ME. GETTING. ROUGH. NOW!!!☺☺☺
April 20, 2015
ARC received for review
I wasn't expecting a cliffy. I thought the next books would be the secondary characters HEA. There was lots of mad sex, no romance, but a whole lot of drama, and a great set of secondary characters and their romances. I look forward to the next book and the coming confrontations between Cassidy and Shaw.
I wasn't expecting a cliffy. I thought the next books would be the secondary characters HEA. There was lots of mad sex, no romance, but a whole lot of drama, and a great set of secondary characters and their romances. I look forward to the next book and the coming confrontations between Cassidy and Shaw.
January 28, 2016
By any means necessary...
Shaw & Cassidy work for the same company and have been at each other's throats since day one. The competition has been fierce between the top two ranking sports agents. Now, to make matters worse, they are being thrown together and forced to battle for a promotion that only one will receive. Shaw has been trying to prove himself as a top candidate for the partnership and while he doesn't 'like' Cassidy, he can't deny her pencil skirts and high heels are making him wonder what she's hiding beneath those prim clothes. The idea of 'topping Cassidy' had taken on a whole new meaning.
Cassidy's boss has instructed her to accomplish her goal "by any means necessary." What exactly does that mean? Surely, not what it sounds like, right? She's fought hard to make a name for herself as a female in her chosen profession. She has worked endlessly to show that she has what it takes without using her 'assets' to do it. She's rocking the librarian look rather than cashing in on her curves. However; that certainly isn't the direction Shaw is going with all the talk around the water cooler regarding the size of his 'asset'.
They each tell themselves how much they hate each other and neither of them are looking forward to the time they must spend together with the prospective client they each hope will hire them. They are like a couple of teenagers who are being forced to sit in after school detention, each blaming the other. They can't resist throwing insults and pushing each other's buttons. There seems to be a whole lot of animosity between them...or is that sexual tension?...hmmm.
To make matters worse, they keep running into each other outside of work too. Of course his best friend, Chaz, is the bartender at the bar where she hangs out with her best friends Quinn, Sasha, and Demi after work. The bar is called Monkey Business (series name makes more sense now, huh?), a 'workingmen's watering hole. The friends are a colorful bunch that I'm sure will provide much entertainment throughout this series. My fave is Quinn. I admit to a giggle-snort when he saw Shaw for the first time and said, "Honey, that man is a piece of scrumptious wrapped up in good gawd!" While we aren't left in the dark regarding who wins in one area, we are left to guess what happens in another. The sparks fly in and out of the office and there is most definitely and explosion. But we will have to wait for the next book in the series to see if they make it out of the fire.
Shaw & Cassidy work for the same company and have been at each other's throats since day one. The competition has been fierce between the top two ranking sports agents. Now, to make matters worse, they are being thrown together and forced to battle for a promotion that only one will receive. Shaw has been trying to prove himself as a top candidate for the partnership and while he doesn't 'like' Cassidy, he can't deny her pencil skirts and high heels are making him wonder what she's hiding beneath those prim clothes. The idea of 'topping Cassidy' had taken on a whole new meaning.
Cassidy's boss has instructed her to accomplish her goal "by any means necessary." What exactly does that mean? Surely, not what it sounds like, right? She's fought hard to make a name for herself as a female in her chosen profession. She has worked endlessly to show that she has what it takes without using her 'assets' to do it. She's rocking the librarian look rather than cashing in on her curves. However; that certainly isn't the direction Shaw is going with all the talk around the water cooler regarding the size of his 'asset'.
They each tell themselves how much they hate each other and neither of them are looking forward to the time they must spend together with the prospective client they each hope will hire them. They are like a couple of teenagers who are being forced to sit in after school detention, each blaming the other. They can't resist throwing insults and pushing each other's buttons. There seems to be a whole lot of animosity between them...or is that sexual tension?...hmmm.
To make matters worse, they keep running into each other outside of work too. Of course his best friend, Chaz, is the bartender at the bar where she hangs out with her best friends Quinn, Sasha, and Demi after work. The bar is called Monkey Business (series name makes more sense now, huh?), a 'workingmen's watering hole. The friends are a colorful bunch that I'm sure will provide much entertainment throughout this series. My fave is Quinn. I admit to a giggle-snort when he saw Shaw for the first time and said, "Honey, that man is a piece of scrumptious wrapped up in good gawd!" While we aren't left in the dark regarding who wins in one area, we are left to guess what happens in another. The sparks fly in and out of the office and there is most definitely and explosion. But we will have to wait for the next book in the series to see if they make it out of the fire.
January 26, 2018
Shaw Mathews and Cassidy Whalen work for the same sport's agency and are both gunning for a partnership position by being the first one to sign up one of America's top athletes. Shaw being the total a**hole that he is decides to seduce the ice queen Cassidy and eliminating the competition, but Cassidy is ready with a plan of her own to take down the alpha hunk with her own seduction. I really liked this book, the characters were both strong and likable and the story line was an interesting ride between the turbulent relationship between Shaw and Cassidy but also the relationships that she shared with her close group of friends and her family. I would have to say with all the books that I have read this one would have to have the most detailed and hottest sex scenes ever, can't wait to get stuck into book two.
May 14, 2015
***I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review!***
This is my first book by the author, but she did not disappoint. This book was incredibly funny, dirty, sexy and interesting. I was captivated from the beginning, and didn't want it to end. Keep in mind that this is part of a series, but there is no crazy emotional cliffhanger at the end. You will be dying for the next book though.
I really liked Cassidy's character. I thought that she was beautifully written. She initially came across as a hardass bitch at work, yet when you see her in a more relaxed setting you get a great feel for the type of person that she is. She definitely knows how to speak her mind and go after what she wants, but she also has unexpected moments of heart and sentimentality that are very appealing. She is also incredibly loyal.
Shaw was a typical man. He was hot as hell, confident and cocky, and extremely competitive. Anything that Cassidy did, he tried to one-up. He gave off an air of coming from wealth, and tried hard to maintain his reputation. Sometimes to his own detriment. He was a man who liked to take charge, and he definitely knew how to throw out the charm to both men and women alike.
There were definitely a lot of ups and downs as Cassidy and Shaw worked against each other, yet when they came together physically it was explosive. Talk about fireworks. These two had a lot of angry sex, any and everywhere they could. There was a slow build up to any kind of real feelings between the two, but since it is a series, it made sense. I definitely see a lot more drama ahead for these two.
This story has a strong set of side characters that you will see repeatedly throughout this series. They were each very different, yet their differences blended very well with one another and added some levity and laughter. Their story lines also dealt with some tough issues that many of us are faced with in our lives, so that made it extremely relatable. I can see the author developing more stories around these characters.
Overall, I found this story to be completely engaging, and very well written, with extremely likable characters once you get to know them. There was also enough going on to keep this series going, and it developed at a good pace to keep the reader interested and coming back for more. I definitely recommend this book and this author.
This is my first book by the author, but she did not disappoint. This book was incredibly funny, dirty, sexy and interesting. I was captivated from the beginning, and didn't want it to end. Keep in mind that this is part of a series, but there is no crazy emotional cliffhanger at the end. You will be dying for the next book though.
I really liked Cassidy's character. I thought that she was beautifully written. She initially came across as a hardass bitch at work, yet when you see her in a more relaxed setting you get a great feel for the type of person that she is. She definitely knows how to speak her mind and go after what she wants, but she also has unexpected moments of heart and sentimentality that are very appealing. She is also incredibly loyal.
Shaw was a typical man. He was hot as hell, confident and cocky, and extremely competitive. Anything that Cassidy did, he tried to one-up. He gave off an air of coming from wealth, and tried hard to maintain his reputation. Sometimes to his own detriment. He was a man who liked to take charge, and he definitely knew how to throw out the charm to both men and women alike.
There were definitely a lot of ups and downs as Cassidy and Shaw worked against each other, yet when they came together physically it was explosive. Talk about fireworks. These two had a lot of angry sex, any and everywhere they could. There was a slow build up to any kind of real feelings between the two, but since it is a series, it made sense. I definitely see a lot more drama ahead for these two.
This story has a strong set of side characters that you will see repeatedly throughout this series. They were each very different, yet their differences blended very well with one another and added some levity and laughter. Their story lines also dealt with some tough issues that many of us are faced with in our lives, so that made it extremely relatable. I can see the author developing more stories around these characters.
Overall, I found this story to be completely engaging, and very well written, with extremely likable characters once you get to know them. There was also enough going on to keep this series going, and it developed at a good pace to keep the reader interested and coming back for more. I definitely recommend this book and this author.
June 1, 2015
Both Cassidy and Shaw are sports agents at the top of their game. They have always been in competition, but now the stakes are higher. A partnership position is up for grabs, and Cassidy and Shaw are equally qualified. Only one will get the spot and only if they land the account with San Diego’s top Quarterback. This competition will not only bring out their hate for each other, but their lust, and if they’re lucky, maybe love.
I am impressed with Cassidy and Shaw. These two are such goal-oriented people who are obsessed with winning, and because they are equally driven and competitive, they found each other irresistible. It was pure hate and lust. C.L. Parker packed this book with one hell of an erotic punch! I was taken aback with the s*x scenes in this book. It wasn’t quite BDSM but more kink, IMO. There was a lot of power play, and there were times it happened in places least expected. Bottom line, the steam factor was off the charts.
As far as the relationship goes, I thought it was cute and sometimes a little disturbing that they couldn’t see what was in front of them. As much as they played coy, it was obvious they felt something for each other. You’ll see that it’s not something they can control for very long. Unfortunately, I’m ‘not sure where Parker will take this story. Be forewarned, there is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end of this book. Cassidy and Shaw’s story is not quite over yet, and I have a feeling it will get worse before it gets better. There are signs of a love triangle in the future of this story. I’m guessing it will be a bad boy vs. the boy next door kind of story. It gives me butterflies in my stomach just thinking about it.
The story of the hero/heroine and secondary character kept me turning the pages as well. I loved that the storyline did not solely concentrate on the primary characters. I thought it gave the story a little more substance. Overall, Parker did a great job with this book. Playing Dirty is on my top ten hottest book for this year.
June 22, 2015
This book had a lot of potential, I thought. It was the love-hate aspect of Playing Dirty that initially piqued my interest. There's something about the tension and passion, that usually fuels the characters in this type of relationship, that excites me. Shaw and Cassidy were incredibly competitive and loathed one another, but I couldn't help feeling like something was missing. That it wasn't a complete story.
Shaw and Cassidy, colleagues at a sports agency, are pitted against one another for a partnership spot. Their boss makes it clear, whoever gets the coveted football star to sign with the agency, gets the position. It’s a pretty obvious storyline. They’re both willing to do whatever it takes to one-up the other person and get the football star’s attention.
I had a hard time, losing myself in the story and feeling any sort of connection with the characters. Honestly, I was bored. Was it horrible? No. I just feel like I’ve read this story a hundred times before. There was nothing unique or different that made this a special read for me.
Sure, Shaw and Cassidy had great physical chemistry, but that’s where it ended. There was no emotional connection or tender moments shared between them. Never even once, did Shaw or Cassidy express any feelings for one another. Hot scenes are great, but I crave something deeper. There has to be some emotion driving the story. Something to make me care about the characters.
Instead of giving us what the story needed, a little love shared between Shaw and Cassidy, the author served up drama that felt rushed and a huge cliffhanger. The story just felt incomplete. Obviously, the author was attempting to get her readers to pick up the next book, but I have no desire at this point to continue with the series.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Shaw and Cassidy, colleagues at a sports agency, are pitted against one another for a partnership spot. Their boss makes it clear, whoever gets the coveted football star to sign with the agency, gets the position. It’s a pretty obvious storyline. They’re both willing to do whatever it takes to one-up the other person and get the football star’s attention.
I had a hard time, losing myself in the story and feeling any sort of connection with the characters. Honestly, I was bored. Was it horrible? No. I just feel like I’ve read this story a hundred times before. There was nothing unique or different that made this a special read for me.
Sure, Shaw and Cassidy had great physical chemistry, but that’s where it ended. There was no emotional connection or tender moments shared between them. Never even once, did Shaw or Cassidy express any feelings for one another. Hot scenes are great, but I crave something deeper. There has to be some emotion driving the story. Something to make me care about the characters.
Instead of giving us what the story needed, a little love shared between Shaw and Cassidy, the author served up drama that felt rushed and a huge cliffhanger. The story just felt incomplete. Obviously, the author was attempting to get her readers to pick up the next book, but I have no desire at this point to continue with the series.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
May 20, 2015
ARC provided by publisher through NetGalley in return for honest review.
***3.5 stars***
If there ever was a book that epitomizes a hate fuck, it's this one.
The premise is this:
Our central characters are two sports agents vying for the same athlete for their agency. The winner gets the prized partnership position and their name on the company marquee.
Cassidy Whalen is a real man eater. Tall, sexy redhead only concerned with her work. She comes from a small town and left the love of her life there to pursue her law degree and then her agent career.
Shaw Matthews is a shark. Tall, handsome, charismatic playboy that likes to play just as much as he likes to win.
What ensues for most of the book is literally hate fucking. We also have the back and forth plays made by Shaw and Cassidy to sign the athlete they're fighting over. Shaw would make a move, then Cassidy would try and "one up" him, then vice versa.
I like the originality of the sports agency. I don't believe I've ever read a book with that background. Although the sex scenes were hot, all of the hate fucking got old. I think eventually they did start to have feelings for one another, but it wasn't until the very end. The role of Cassidy's boyfriend she left back in her hometown was sort of unclear. Were they waiting for each other? Did they plan to get back together? Were they just friends? Of course, since this will be a trilogy(or a duet of books) we are left with a cliffhanger. Not too bad, but definitely unanswered questions and situations. I enjoyed the writing, although at times, details got a little long.
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***3.5 stars***
If there ever was a book that epitomizes a hate fuck, it's this one.
The premise is this:
Our central characters are two sports agents vying for the same athlete for their agency. The winner gets the prized partnership position and their name on the company marquee.
Cassidy Whalen is a real man eater. Tall, sexy redhead only concerned with her work. She comes from a small town and left the love of her life there to pursue her law degree and then her agent career.
Shaw Matthews is a shark. Tall, handsome, charismatic playboy that likes to play just as much as he likes to win.
What ensues for most of the book is literally hate fucking. We also have the back and forth plays made by Shaw and Cassidy to sign the athlete they're fighting over. Shaw would make a move, then Cassidy would try and "one up" him, then vice versa.
I like the originality of the sports agency. I don't believe I've ever read a book with that background. Although the sex scenes were hot, all of the hate fucking got old. I think eventually they did start to have feelings for one another, but it wasn't until the very end. The role of Cassidy's boyfriend she left back in her hometown was sort of unclear. Were they waiting for each other? Did they plan to get back together? Were they just friends? Of course, since this will be a trilogy(or a duet of books) we are left with a cliffhanger. Not too bad, but definitely unanswered questions and situations. I enjoyed the writing, although at times, details got a little long.
Follow my reviews @
myromancebooknook.blogspot.com
May 13, 2015
ARC provided in exchange of a honest review.
Review original post:
http://collectorofbookboyfriends.com/...
book review: 5 stars!!!
This book just finished me off! I got addicted to it since the very first word and It sucked me up so much that I didn’t understand when I got to the end of it! Plus, holy moly, WHAT AN END!! I stil haven’t recovered from that – cruel – cliffhanger!!
Seriously, I don’t really know from where should I start so I can give a review worthy of this book. My emotions are all over the place right now but one thing is absolutely certain: Shaw and Cassidy’s story REALLY ROCKED!!! Every chapter was better than the one before it. I never knew what it will happen next because the story was EXACTLY what the title says: DIRTY PLAY!!
Review original post:
http://collectorofbookboyfriends.com/...
book review: 5 stars!!!
This book just finished me off! I got addicted to it since the very first word and It sucked me up so much that I didn’t understand when I got to the end of it! Plus, holy moly, WHAT AN END!! I stil haven’t recovered from that – cruel – cliffhanger!!
Seriously, I don’t really know from where should I start so I can give a review worthy of this book. My emotions are all over the place right now but one thing is absolutely certain: Shaw and Cassidy’s story REALLY ROCKED!!! Every chapter was better than the one before it. I never knew what it will happen next because the story was EXACTLY what the title says: DIRTY PLAY!!
May 12, 2015
4.25 stars. There are a lot of things I really liked about this story. It was seriously hot. The sexual tension between Shaw and Cassidy is intense and when then get together - Wow! It is really hot. I love the whole enemies to lovers troupe and I enjoyed the competition between these two characters. I liked the supporting characters. The only issues I have are that I wish I felt more of a romance between Cassidy and Shaw. I think it was building up to that but with the cliffhanger, I just don't know. Even though I was really frustrated with this being a cliffhanger, I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to read the next book in this series.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
May 4, 2015
More like 2.5 Stars for me. Lots going on in this book.
Want to read
May 12, 2015Won this paperback through a giveaway on LibraryThing.
May 12, 2015
**I received this book from Random House-Bantam Dell through NetGalley for an honest review.**
4.5 stars
Cassidy and Shaw are both sports agents after the same client. While they normally work separately to secure a client, their boss thinks them going after the same one is the best option to see who will get promoted partner. They both hate each other so that makes things even more interesting.
This started out so good. The amount of highlights and bookmarks I had alone in the first 2 chapters has to be some kind of new record for me. Cass and Shaw were ridiculously hot together and I couldn’t get enough. Playing Dirty is full of sex and at times it gets really dirty. They were some major freaks (in a good way) and boy were they hot. They were definitely playing a dirty game and I loved it. I had fun trying to guess who was going to win between these two.
I honestly loved the back for forth of Cass and Shaw. She was in no way a pushover so that made things even more interesting. She gave as good as she got. The competition they had going on and the competitive nature of them was oftentimes pretty funny. I hate that it ends in a serious cliffhanger but I enjoyed this book so much that I will be sure to hop back on this story as soon as it is released.
4.5 stars
Cassidy and Shaw are both sports agents after the same client. While they normally work separately to secure a client, their boss thinks them going after the same one is the best option to see who will get promoted partner. They both hate each other so that makes things even more interesting.
This started out so good. The amount of highlights and bookmarks I had alone in the first 2 chapters has to be some kind of new record for me. Cass and Shaw were ridiculously hot together and I couldn’t get enough. Playing Dirty is full of sex and at times it gets really dirty. They were some major freaks (in a good way) and boy were they hot. They were definitely playing a dirty game and I loved it. I had fun trying to guess who was going to win between these two.
I honestly loved the back for forth of Cass and Shaw. She was in no way a pushover so that made things even more interesting. She gave as good as she got. The competition they had going on and the competitive nature of them was oftentimes pretty funny. I hate that it ends in a serious cliffhanger but I enjoyed this book so much that I will be sure to hop back on this story as soon as it is released.
May 4, 2015
I have to say I was interested in seeing how the author would turn rivalry into something more.. And at first I was quite skeptical, but in the end it really worked... Although I will say Cassidy's dream out of the blue was a bit unbelievable as she'd already known him for quite a while and never thought about him in that light, but other than that I actually really loved how things evolved between the characters.
The love/hate relationship, the banter, the angry/hard sex was just... great. I loved that while the sex was hot, the background story kept going as well so it was never dull.
I didn't really understand why Cassidy would think one thing about what she was doing with her client, but then do another and then go back to chastising herself about and think that could've been played off a bit better.
Overall, I really really enjoyed the book and hope there is more to there story as I felt like we were left with no closure!! I need to know what happens!!!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
The love/hate relationship, the banter, the angry/hard sex was just... great. I loved that while the sex was hot, the background story kept going as well so it was never dull.
I didn't really understand why Cassidy would think one thing about what she was doing with her client, but then do another and then go back to chastising herself about and think that could've been played off a bit better.
Overall, I really really enjoyed the book and hope there is more to there story as I felt like we were left with no closure!! I need to know what happens!!!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
May 12, 2015
Playing Dirty by CL Parker is a hot read with two A-type characters that try to one-up the other in hopes obtaining a coveted position of partner at Striker Sports Entertainment.
Our leads Cassidy Whalen and Shaw Matthews, hate each other and stand in the other's way of getting what they want. Their banter was great and reminded me of Beatrice and Benedict from Shakespeare's Much Ado about Nothing. They both despise the other, but that doesn't last long as their lust for the other turns them from enemies to lovers. Their scenes are scorching, my favorite being the dream Cassidy has... hot!
I enjoyed this novel and loved the way it was written, the emotional character development of the leads, and the overall story.
I happily recommend this read and can't wait to read more from Ms. Parker.
(Thanks to CL Parker, Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell, and NetGalley for a chance to read an ARC of Playing Dirty for an honest review.)
Our leads Cassidy Whalen and Shaw Matthews, hate each other and stand in the other's way of getting what they want. Their banter was great and reminded me of Beatrice and Benedict from Shakespeare's Much Ado about Nothing. They both despise the other, but that doesn't last long as their lust for the other turns them from enemies to lovers. Their scenes are scorching, my favorite being the dream Cassidy has... hot!
I enjoyed this novel and loved the way it was written, the emotional character development of the leads, and the overall story.
I happily recommend this read and can't wait to read more from Ms. Parker.
(Thanks to CL Parker, Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell, and NetGalley for a chance to read an ARC of Playing Dirty for an honest review.)
May 12, 2015
This was quite a different kinda read for me. I've mixed feelings about it. Although a few things bugged me about the story it was still an enjoyable read.
This is the story of Cassidy and Shaw. They are sports agents who work for the same company but hate each other. Their goal is to win a football client and be a partner of the company.
So how do they think they can beat one another? They decide to seduce each other. Will they get more than what they've bargained for?
Although I like some hate sex in my books I couldn't get my head around this one. As I progressed into the story I got to understand the characters more.
I guessed wrong in thinking each book in this series was going to be about different couples. So the cliffhanger ending did come as a shock for me.
If you like stories with hate sex then this could be the book for you. I found it to be an enjoyable hot story.
This is the story of Cassidy and Shaw. They are sports agents who work for the same company but hate each other. Their goal is to win a football client and be a partner of the company.
So how do they think they can beat one another? They decide to seduce each other. Will they get more than what they've bargained for?
Although I like some hate sex in my books I couldn't get my head around this one. As I progressed into the story I got to understand the characters more.
I guessed wrong in thinking each book in this series was going to be about different couples. So the cliffhanger ending did come as a shock for me.
If you like stories with hate sex then this could be the book for you. I found it to be an enjoyable hot story.
June 5, 2015
I have read a lot of erotica as you can see from my library but this is one of the most memorable. It is off the charts HOT. The chemistry between Cassidy and Shaw is enough to blow up a lab. The plot is interesting. The pacing is on point. The characters are interesting and complex. I am VERY interested in what happens next. The best erotica I've read this year for sure! DO NOT miss out!
December 14, 2015
4.5 Stars
How hard would you fight for the chance to become partner at a converted sports agency? What methods would you adopt, how low would you stoop and how far across the line would you step? If you’re Shaw Matthews, a egotistical but stunningly attractive man, facing his direct rival for partnership, the infuriatingly beautiful Cassidy Whalen, then surely distraction by seduction is the only option, but will it win him his ultimate prize?
When faced off against each other, both Shaw and Cassidy are beyond furious especially with the role of partner at stake. Their target is the unsuspecting Denver “Rocket Man” Rockford, a star quarterback, and with permission for a carte blanche offensive from their boss, what could possibly go wrong for Cassidy and Shaw?
Cassidy is feisty and will bow down to no man especially her arch nemesis, Shaw, but when facing her future the gloves are off and she sets her sights securely on signing Denver before Shaw can poach him with his “bro” charm ways. Shaw knows that he has to reach new highs, or lows, in order to conquer Cassidy and quickly decides that the best plan of attack is using one of his best skills; sex. Thanks to her friends, Cassidy has also had the thought of seducing Shaw pushed to the forefront of her mind but thinking no more of it, other than acknowledging how infuriatingly attractive Shaw is, Cassidy decides to keep things professional.
As expected, Shaw and Cassidy do fight dirty and it's not long before their fighting becomes sexually charged. After an explosive first encounter appears to be nothing more than a dream, Cassidy finds Shaw even harder to resist and convincing herself that he has poisoned her mind via her dreams, she gathers herself once again and tries to prepare herself for the dreaded journey with Shaw to meet Denver for the first time. The only problem is, when in close proximity to Shaw, Cassidy can’t help but remember her dream and suddenly her life is about to become mind-altering.
After a few too many drinks, on Cassidy’s part, and an offer to walk her home, on Shaw’s part, things suddenly get interesting. A drunk Cassidy is definitely a funny Cassidy and despite Shaw’s attempts to control the situation, both Cassidy and Shaw go into a sexy battle of wills and domination.
As the story continues with both Cassidy and Shaw actively pursuing Denver and offering him a multitude of irresistible offers. Both refuse to back down, both professionally and personally, and whilst their sex is explosive and angry, romance is far from their minds as they attack each other with a ferocious determination, but who will ultimately come out on top; in the business transaction and the bedroom?
I really enjoyed this story. The synopsis sold it to me and the story didn’t disappoint. If you are like me and love a sports themed story, a feisty and dominant female lead character and a swoon-worthy alpha then this story is for you. The one-liners are inspirational and witty and the sexual chemistry, if albeit of the angry kind, is off the charts. There is at times a feel of pettiness between Cassidy and Shaw but this, for me, didn’t detract from the story. It was fast paced, funny, sassy and sexy as hell. The only downside is that it ends of a cliffhanger and we have to wait until January 2016 for the next instalment in order to find out what the future will hold for Cassidy and Shaw.
Thanks to the author and Little Brown Book Group (Piatkus) for the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
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May 13, 2015
Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics
Review copy kindly provided by publisher in exchange for a honest review
Playing Dirty basically is about two people who hate each other so much and they assume certain things about each other. They are going same promotion and basically try every trick in the trade to get each other to concede so they can win . However in the midst of everything they start falling for each other and start hooking up and the stakes become so much higher than a promotion.
That basically the gist of Playing Dirty, however there is more to the story that meets the eye. The secondary characters and secondary plot lines stop this book become a waste of time. Though in every sense this is enemies to lovers taken to the extreme and done in such way that you won’t know whether to hate or love this book.
Cassidy Whalen and Shaw Matthews are two competitive people in the world of sport management who happened to be colleagues at Strikes Sports Entertainment . They are both one step away from becoming a partner in the firm. However the founders have one last task for them both, with the victor taking it all. Get Denver”Rocket man” Rockman get on the books and signed to either one of them. Perfect idea in theory for these two alpha characters that have been fighting it out all year ever since Shaw arrived with each believing that are more deserving of the partnership. Slinging insults at each other and trying to get one up with no great success and leave themselves each frustrated.
However Shaw and Cassidy are about to take things the next level and soon becomes apparent after the first chapter when this bombshell is dropped. Slowly we see the greater picture and get insight further then the picture each other has painted about the other. So uncanny about their determination to succeed, so set high on their pedestal each believing that the other is who they think they are. Unaware of the simmering tension and issues this promotion has for them both should they not get it. It a dirty business and these two are letting any stone untouched and for Cassidy she might take up her friends’ suggestion.
Monkey Business is Cassidy’s local and she ain’t too happy that Shaw has discovered it and thinks he is spying. Cassidy seems to be a bitch anything were Shaw is concerned she doesn’t need this alpha male in her life. She is the alpha in the firm and her friends don’t get her problem with Shaw. Who cares that he hanging out at her bar with her bartender?
She got her friends and they are her’s no one else but they have an crazy idea and starts forming idea in her head that she can’t get out of her head. To seduce Shaw but what if those plans go out the window when attraction takes over and Dakota decides to have a little fun with the both of them.
This is the tip of the iceburg with the story as whilst those two dominant the story, somehow Cassidy’s friends become part of the story dealing with their own issues that tying with Cassidy’s and Shaw’s . This isn’t one long steamy feast, there is way more going on than you first think.
The series name caught my eye originally then the synopsis and when I heard the words Bared to You. It sent alarm bells ring as we all know that can be a very bad thing or a good thing. . This book has it own flair and it shouldn’t’ be compared to anything else. The way that the book end was perfect note and at the moment I’m half of mind to read the second book just to see where will this series go as I was hoping for something different. Risky Business overall is an interesting book that had it hits and it’s misses that why I gave it 3.5 couples.
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
Review copy kindly provided by publisher in exchange for a honest review
Playing Dirty basically is about two people who hate each other so much and they assume certain things about each other. They are going same promotion and basically try every trick in the trade to get each other to concede so they can win . However in the midst of everything they start falling for each other and start hooking up and the stakes become so much higher than a promotion.
That basically the gist of Playing Dirty, however there is more to the story that meets the eye. The secondary characters and secondary plot lines stop this book become a waste of time. Though in every sense this is enemies to lovers taken to the extreme and done in such way that you won’t know whether to hate or love this book.
Cassidy Whalen and Shaw Matthews are two competitive people in the world of sport management who happened to be colleagues at Strikes Sports Entertainment . They are both one step away from becoming a partner in the firm. However the founders have one last task for them both, with the victor taking it all. Get Denver”Rocket man” Rockman get on the books and signed to either one of them. Perfect idea in theory for these two alpha characters that have been fighting it out all year ever since Shaw arrived with each believing that are more deserving of the partnership. Slinging insults at each other and trying to get one up with no great success and leave themselves each frustrated.
However Shaw and Cassidy are about to take things the next level and soon becomes apparent after the first chapter when this bombshell is dropped. Slowly we see the greater picture and get insight further then the picture each other has painted about the other. So uncanny about their determination to succeed, so set high on their pedestal each believing that the other is who they think they are. Unaware of the simmering tension and issues this promotion has for them both should they not get it. It a dirty business and these two are letting any stone untouched and for Cassidy she might take up her friends’ suggestion.
Monkey Business is Cassidy’s local and she ain’t too happy that Shaw has discovered it and thinks he is spying. Cassidy seems to be a bitch anything were Shaw is concerned she doesn’t need this alpha male in her life. She is the alpha in the firm and her friends don’t get her problem with Shaw. Who cares that he hanging out at her bar with her bartender?
She got her friends and they are her’s no one else but they have an crazy idea and starts forming idea in her head that she can’t get out of her head. To seduce Shaw but what if those plans go out the window when attraction takes over and Dakota decides to have a little fun with the both of them.
This is the tip of the iceburg with the story as whilst those two dominant the story, somehow Cassidy’s friends become part of the story dealing with their own issues that tying with Cassidy’s and Shaw’s . This isn’t one long steamy feast, there is way more going on than you first think.
The series name caught my eye originally then the synopsis and when I heard the words Bared to You. It sent alarm bells ring as we all know that can be a very bad thing or a good thing. . This book has it own flair and it shouldn’t’ be compared to anything else. The way that the book end was perfect note and at the moment I’m half of mind to read the second book just to see where will this series go as I was hoping for something different. Risky Business overall is an interesting book that had it hits and it’s misses that why I gave it 3.5 couples.
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
August 30, 2015
We are The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club, to know more about this book, go to the post in our website:
Playing Dirty (Monkey Business Trio, #1) by C.L. Parker
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 4 stars
Review:
Playing Dirty was definitely an intense, sexy read. It had everything the synopsis promised and I was left wanting to read more!
So the story is pretty much well explained in the synopsis. We have two competitive similar people who'll do anything to win a partnership at a sports agency. They despise each other and while Cassidy is a strong woman who knows where she stands, Shaw is a conceited alpha male who knows his way into every single game.
I have to confess that at first, when the story starts I felt kind of confuse. It starts with Cassidy having a seriously hot, sexy dream with Shaw. I was left a bit incredulous since they were suppose to hate each other right? And the chapter didn't give away that it was all a dream until the very last moment. And then, Shaw had something similar going through his head - That made me roll my eyes a bit and start saying "well, it starts." I get that the author was trying to build the sexual tension and unspoken attraction between the two main characters but it felt a bit too far-fetched for my liking.
Then the story progressed, with a good rhythm, always keeping the reader invested in the story and with those intense and sexy scenes we were promised in the synopsis.
What I was not expecting and didn't like at all, was the ending. Don't get me wrong, I go all for books that leave you hanging, desperate for more (although it awakes my inner monster that tries to bribe authors). However, the ending in Playing Dirty felt as if someone was speaking and stopped mid-sentence. That's how it felt to me. Like I needed just a tiny little bit more.
Between that and the beginning were the reasons that made me rate the book the way I did. Because the characters are great and the relationship the author builds is a good one and it slowly progresses throughout the story. And despite at times I didn't truly like how the characters behaved, they ended up getting under your skin.
After re-reading my review I detected a bit of negativity from me, but seriously it was an enjoyable read. Not a mind-blowing one, but definitely a sexy read that will make me wait for the next book in the series. And my only advice is that if you like these type of reads, try it and see what happens. This story might surprise you.
I received this ARC in exchange of an honest review. Thanks to Kesley at Penguin Random House for inviting me to read this book.
Playing Dirty (Monkey Business Trio, #1) by C.L. Parker
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 4 stars
Review:
Playing Dirty was definitely an intense, sexy read. It had everything the synopsis promised and I was left wanting to read more!
So the story is pretty much well explained in the synopsis. We have two competitive similar people who'll do anything to win a partnership at a sports agency. They despise each other and while Cassidy is a strong woman who knows where she stands, Shaw is a conceited alpha male who knows his way into every single game.
I have to confess that at first, when the story starts I felt kind of confuse. It starts with Cassidy having a seriously hot, sexy dream with Shaw. I was left a bit incredulous since they were suppose to hate each other right? And the chapter didn't give away that it was all a dream until the very last moment. And then, Shaw had something similar going through his head - That made me roll my eyes a bit and start saying "well, it starts." I get that the author was trying to build the sexual tension and unspoken attraction between the two main characters but it felt a bit too far-fetched for my liking.
Then the story progressed, with a good rhythm, always keeping the reader invested in the story and with those intense and sexy scenes we were promised in the synopsis.
What I was not expecting and didn't like at all, was the ending. Don't get me wrong, I go all for books that leave you hanging, desperate for more (although it awakes my inner monster that tries to bribe authors). However, the ending in Playing Dirty felt as if someone was speaking and stopped mid-sentence. That's how it felt to me. Like I needed just a tiny little bit more.
Between that and the beginning were the reasons that made me rate the book the way I did. Because the characters are great and the relationship the author builds is a good one and it slowly progresses throughout the story. And despite at times I didn't truly like how the characters behaved, they ended up getting under your skin.
After re-reading my review I detected a bit of negativity from me, but seriously it was an enjoyable read. Not a mind-blowing one, but definitely a sexy read that will make me wait for the next book in the series. And my only advice is that if you like these type of reads, try it and see what happens. This story might surprise you.
I received this ARC in exchange of an honest review. Thanks to Kesley at Penguin Random House for inviting me to read this book.
May 12, 2015
PLAYING DIRTY is absolutely the best title for this read. Shaw and Cassidy are explosive together in both good and bad ways. Both are strong willed, determined, ambitious, and want to succeed and win at all costs. However for them there is a fine line between attraction and repulsion and that line gets so blurred that they themselves can no longer distinguish between the two. When dealing with each other both Shaw and Cassidy can get ugly and petty but I have to admit that I found their interactions entertaining. In some instances Cassidy could come off as immature and catty but in all fairness Shaw saw and pushed all of her buttons.
Shaw in all of his alpha-ness could definitely lean toward the bully side at times. Aggressiveness and being very harsh when dealing with Cassidy had him skirting the line of likability. Shaw has a lot going on underneath is jerk-like demeanor and it was nice to see that he had more depth than what is originally shown.
PLAYING DIRTY has plenty of humor, good descriptive sexiness, a storyline that wraps you up and keeps you engaged along with characters that will leave you wanting more. Speaking of wanting more PLAYING DIRTY played a bit of a dirty trick on me. There's a BIG cliffhanger at the end! I did not know this going in and it was devastating to discover! I'm not even sure that it was completely necessary for this one to end in a cliffhanger. I could see their story being able to be completed in one book and the series continuing on with another couple taking center stage for book 2. Yet it is what it is and there is a cliffhanger at the end. PLAYING DIRTY was an enjoyable read for me but the cliffhanger definitely threw me for a loop.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
Shaw in all of his alpha-ness could definitely lean toward the bully side at times. Aggressiveness and being very harsh when dealing with Cassidy had him skirting the line of likability. Shaw has a lot going on underneath is jerk-like demeanor and it was nice to see that he had more depth than what is originally shown.
PLAYING DIRTY has plenty of humor, good descriptive sexiness, a storyline that wraps you up and keeps you engaged along with characters that will leave you wanting more. Speaking of wanting more PLAYING DIRTY played a bit of a dirty trick on me. There's a BIG cliffhanger at the end! I did not know this going in and it was devastating to discover! I'm not even sure that it was completely necessary for this one to end in a cliffhanger. I could see their story being able to be completed in one book and the series continuing on with another couple taking center stage for book 2. Yet it is what it is and there is a cliffhanger at the end. PLAYING DIRTY was an enjoyable read for me but the cliffhanger definitely threw me for a loop.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
May 12, 2015
2 hate fuck Stars
I wanted desperately to love this because I loved Bared to you and Beautiful bastard. So what I did get from the relation to those two is a bit of tying up and a bit of witty snark. The books premise is basically a really good hate fuck situation
But what I mostly got was lines like this
holding on to my center, he quickly buried his face in my center, licking and sucking at my pussy like a fat man lapping the remnants of grease from his fingers after gobbling down a bucket of fried chicken
It made my goddamn cock leak
Conspiring with my cooch
Now back to the story its classified as romance but if that’s what you are looking for I never found it.. I found sex, dirty talking and horrible image producing similes
Our girl Cassidy here flip flops on her character she starts out being this strong character and just loses it and her spunk along the way
The book ends in a cliffy but this book was not for me.
March 1, 2016
There is a fine line between Love and Hate.
In Playing Dirty Shaw and Cassidy are pitted against one another - their quest is to gain the account of Denver "Rocket man" Rockford, If he signs with either Shaw or Cassidy not only will they have the most coveted athlete to add to their list of sport pros they represent but they will also make partner at Striker Sports Entertainment, the sports agency they work for. It was great to watch as they pulled out all the stops to try and influence Denver's decision. They fought like cats and dogs and you know what they say...There is a fine line between love and hate so when Cassidy and Shaw become what you might call enemies with benefits, I was hoping that they would cross the line and find love but instead I was left with one heck of a cliffhanger. I cannot wait for the next book to come out!!!
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
In Playing Dirty Shaw and Cassidy are pitted against one another - their quest is to gain the account of Denver "Rocket man" Rockford, If he signs with either Shaw or Cassidy not only will they have the most coveted athlete to add to their list of sport pros they represent but they will also make partner at Striker Sports Entertainment, the sports agency they work for. It was great to watch as they pulled out all the stops to try and influence Denver's decision. They fought like cats and dogs and you know what they say...There is a fine line between love and hate so when Cassidy and Shaw become what you might call enemies with benefits, I was hoping that they would cross the line and find love but instead I was left with one heck of a cliffhanger. I cannot wait for the next book to come out!!!
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Bantam Dell through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
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