Book Review: Play Me Once by Carina Taylor

All’s Fair Book Two

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Rating: 4 out of 5.

Play Me Once by Carina Taylor

Published 5 January 2024

ISBN 9798874056254

Genre Romance

Pages 274

What happens when the man I can’t stand becomes my boss?

Kingston Palmer is public enemy number one. Pain in the—*ahem.

You see, I used to like Kingston. He even asked me out…and then crushed my feelings.

To Kingston, I’m nothing more than a game. One that he’s sure he can win.
Don’t worry; he underestimates my own dedication to winning.
Unfortunately for me, I accidentally signed on to work at his company (yes, yes, it’s a loooong story).

Kingston is my new boss.
But I’m nothing if not efficient. I’ll be an expert at my job all while dutifully ignoring my boss and his ability to lean on door frames.
My task is to create a nonprofit that benefits the community. Easy peasy.
It’s everything else that gets complicated: avoiding my boss, making the required snide comments, and turning him down for dates is turning into a full-time job all on its own.
It’s not like he actually wants me. At least, I don’t think so…

What is Play Me Once by Carina Taylor about?

Play Me Once by Carina Taylor is the second book in the All’s Fair series.

When the man she can’t stand, Kingston Palmer, becomes her boss, the protagonist faces a challenging situation. Kingston, once someone she liked who later crushed her feelings, now sees her as a game he can win. Despite accidentally signing on to work at his company, she is determined to excel at her job while skillfully ignoring her boss’s advances. Tasked with creating a nonprofit for the community, she navigates the complexities of avoiding Kingston, making snide comments, and rejecting his date offers. The protagonist grapples with the uncertainty of whether Kingston genuinely wants her or if it’s all part of the game.

My thoughts on Play Me Once

What an adorable love story! Willa and Kingston were delightful characters, and their journey was thoroughly enjoyable.

Kingston and Willa initially shared a mutual attraction, but their budding romance hit a snag when she overheard him expressing a reluctance for a long-term commitment. Despite him being her best friend’s brother, Willa distanced herself until circumstances forced her to work at Kingston’s company, where he now holds a position of authority.

Haunted by the regret of hurting Willa, Kingston is upfront about his commitment issues. As they collaborate on a work project, he finds it challenging to let go of the idea of dating her and persistently tries to change her mind. Over time, the prospect of a committed relationship becomes increasingly appealing.

What stood out to me:

  • Enemies to lovers dynamic
  • Engaging banter and dialogue
  • Willa’s spirited personality
  • Workplace romance setting
  • Dual points of view
  • The endearing cat, Paul
  • Forced proximity scenario
  • Entertaining golfing scenes
  • Memorable elevator moment
  • Exciting football game
  • Abundance of sweet kisses
  • A grand romantic gesture

“Play Me Once” delivered numerous charming and swoon-worthy moments, creating an overall feel-good story. While it is the second in a series, it functions well as a standalone read.

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I’m Emily, the creator and author behind this blog. I’m an avid reader and want to share my love of books with everyone. I am a teacher and librarian hoping to give insight into books and libraries. I will be posting book reviews and author interviews every week!

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