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Spotlight Collection #1
Play Me
Who will you be when no one is watching... when the lights go down?
Ellie
I played because I loved it... it was in my blood.
Now I play because it's all I have left. And I'm about to chance it all for him.
When the lights go down, and I step off that stage, will he still want me? When he finds out who I really am, what I'm not?
Lee
Her voice drew me in, her heart is what makes me want to stay.
Part of me wants to take care of her, the other wants to break down her walls.
I'm not sure I'm ready to risk it all... chasing her down, when I'm struggling to hold on to the only thing I've ever known.
Ellie
I played because I loved it... it was in my blood.
Now I play because it's all I have left. And I'm about to chance it all for him.
When the lights go down, and I step off that stage, will he still want me? When he finds out who I really am, what I'm not?
Lee
Her voice drew me in, her heart is what makes me want to stay.
Part of me wants to take care of her, the other wants to break down her walls.
I'm not sure I'm ready to risk it all... chasing her down, when I'm struggling to hold on to the only thing I've ever known.
- GenresContemporary Romance
Published May 10, 2018
About the author
Cary Hart
36 books1,583 followersCary Hart hails from the Midwest. A sassy, coffee drinking, sometimes sailor swearing, Spotify addict, lover of all things books!
When not pushing women down the stairs in the fictional world, Cary has her hands full. Soccer mom in all sense of the word to two wild and crazy, spoiled kiddos, and wife to the most supportive husband. In addition to writing full time, she enjoys binge watching Netflix, laying around in her hammock and baking up cookies for her family and friends.
Cary writes real, raw romance! In her stories the characters deal with life's everyday struggles and unwanted drama, they talk about the ugly and they become the broken. Everyone deserves a happy ending, but sometimes before you can appreciate the light, there has to be darkness.
Growing up, if someone would have told her she would become a writer, she wouldn't have believed them. It wasn't until she got her hands on her first romance novel, that the passion grew. Now she couldn't imagine her life any other way - she's living her dream.
When not pushing women down the stairs in the fictional world, Cary has her hands full. Soccer mom in all sense of the word to two wild and crazy, spoiled kiddos, and wife to the most supportive husband. In addition to writing full time, she enjoys binge watching Netflix, laying around in her hammock and baking up cookies for her family and friends.
Cary writes real, raw romance! In her stories the characters deal with life's everyday struggles and unwanted drama, they talk about the ugly and they become the broken. Everyone deserves a happy ending, but sometimes before you can appreciate the light, there has to be darkness.
Growing up, if someone would have told her she would become a writer, she wouldn't have believed them. It wasn't until she got her hands on her first romance novel, that the passion grew. Now she couldn't imagine her life any other way - she's living her dream.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
May 11, 2018
There are moments that as a blogger i absolutely love what i do and these moments are when i discover a new author. When it comes to traditional publishing (think Nora Roberts, Sherrilyn Kenyon or Julie Garwood), the hype of their reputation explodes with the marketing, so it becomes easier for indie authors (those who self publish through platforms such as Amazon, iBooks, etc.) to drown in that huge sea. It's been 5 years now since i began my journey as a reader/blogger and almost 3 years ago i created my own book blog, and i have to say that since that journey began, i have discovered more than 100 new authors - i can't say that they were all amaze-ball authors, but many were unforgettable.
I had never read a book by Cary Hart until i picked up Play Me. I'll admit that it was the blurb that drew me in and made me curious; also i believed i had read a book by her previously before making my quick search in goodreads [yeah, i hadn't read her previously]. Anyways, that being said, Play Me was an amazing starter for me from this author. While i had believed that this would be a dark romance (still have no idea how i came up with that assumption...), this book was anything but.
This book is about starting over. About discovering what you're really made of when you lose everything. It's also about reaching your full potential when you think that everything is lost. But it's also about finding your voice. Play Me touched me in so many ways. The fact that Ellie's background is still full of opportunities and only if she followed the strict rules that her father imposed, but that she went and took a chance on leaving it all for her dreams was captivating. It was the kind of story that you can only hope you take something from it such as making that first scary step can bring you so many advantages.
While Lee was a mystery to me at first (why did he leave so abruptly when he first met Ellie and did he have a history with the Hawthorne name?), as i kept reading, i wanted (and i did) cheer for him. I cheered for him to go get what he wanted and the consequences be damned.
Cary Hart has done a great job in creating this story. For sure it's not one i'm going to forget and i'll probably be re reading in the future so that i can better appreciate it.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
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April 29, 2018
Play Me is a sweet romance story that is heart-warming and just makes you feel good as you read it. Of course, with any love story there is some trials and tribulations but if there aren’t a few bumps in the road then the journey just wasn’t worth the ride. With two main characters that hit it off from the start, Cary Hart writes a book that gives us all hope that true love is real and worth fighting for. Play Me is a easily a 5 star read.
Ellie Thorn just wants to be her own person but every time she tries her father pulls her back to be Eloise Hawthorne. Finally getting a chance to prove herself, Ellie sets out to make her way in life all on her own. Lee Scott has had to work for what he has and made a promise to take care of the one he loves. That promise gets harder and harder to keep, throw in work and any chance at a normal social life and it is damn near impossible to stay afloat. Lee meets Ellie and the two decide that somethings really are worth fighting for no matter the obstacles. Lee just hopes that he doesn’t get played again like he has in the past.
Ellie Thorn just wants to be her own person but every time she tries her father pulls her back to be Eloise Hawthorne. Finally getting a chance to prove herself, Ellie sets out to make her way in life all on her own. Lee Scott has had to work for what he has and made a promise to take care of the one he loves. That promise gets harder and harder to keep, throw in work and any chance at a normal social life and it is damn near impossible to stay afloat. Lee meets Ellie and the two decide that somethings really are worth fighting for no matter the obstacles. Lee just hopes that he doesn’t get played again like he has in the past.
May 19, 2018
Brave and Selfless Love!
Play Me is the first book in the Spotlight Collection by Cary Hart. It is a character driven, beautiful, and emotional read. This book is filled with lessons in love and forgiveness. It showcases self discovery, courage, selflessness, and love.
Ellie Hawthorne is a talented musician that longs to live out her dream with the love and support of her family. However, she has never had their support for her dream. She has been rebelling. Fighting to be loved and acknowledged for exactly who she is...unconditionally.
Presley "Lee" Scott is a hard working, loyal, loving man. He was raised by his grandparents, when his mom abandoned him. His Grans is his life. The only mother he has ever known. His Grans has been given a difficult diagnosis and Lee is struggling to hold their world together.
When Ellie and Lee meet their connection is flirty, fun, and magnetic. They are definitely drawn to one another, but they are both scared. Ellie fears rejection and lack of support. Lee fears abandonment and not being enough for someone to stay. Yet, they can't fight the attraction for long.
Play Me reminds us that perception is reality. Your life is shaped by what you believe. Mrs. Hart has a knack for developing characters that transform and grow through the story. They do not change fundamentally, but their perspective shifts. These subtle changes are a result of opening themselves up to possibility. Possibilities that they couldn't fathom or feel before. As Ellie and Lee's relationship builds, their world expands beyond what they thought they knew, wanted, or needed. Play Me puts the spotlight on a communication and connection that feels authentic and tangible.
My heart was with Ellie and Lee from their first meeting. I loved their banter and exchange of cheesy pick up lines. Their love was playful, supportive, and steamy. Play Me is thoughtful and courageous and passionate. The melody is pure and the notes crisp. Beautiful music that touches my heart and soul!
Play Me is the first book in the Spotlight Collection by Cary Hart. It is a character driven, beautiful, and emotional read. This book is filled with lessons in love and forgiveness. It showcases self discovery, courage, selflessness, and love.
Ellie Hawthorne is a talented musician that longs to live out her dream with the love and support of her family. However, she has never had their support for her dream. She has been rebelling. Fighting to be loved and acknowledged for exactly who she is...unconditionally.
Presley "Lee" Scott is a hard working, loyal, loving man. He was raised by his grandparents, when his mom abandoned him. His Grans is his life. The only mother he has ever known. His Grans has been given a difficult diagnosis and Lee is struggling to hold their world together.
When Ellie and Lee meet their connection is flirty, fun, and magnetic. They are definitely drawn to one another, but they are both scared. Ellie fears rejection and lack of support. Lee fears abandonment and not being enough for someone to stay. Yet, they can't fight the attraction for long.
Play Me reminds us that perception is reality. Your life is shaped by what you believe. Mrs. Hart has a knack for developing characters that transform and grow through the story. They do not change fundamentally, but their perspective shifts. These subtle changes are a result of opening themselves up to possibility. Possibilities that they couldn't fathom or feel before. As Ellie and Lee's relationship builds, their world expands beyond what they thought they knew, wanted, or needed. Play Me puts the spotlight on a communication and connection that feels authentic and tangible.
My heart was with Ellie and Lee from their first meeting. I loved their banter and exchange of cheesy pick up lines. Their love was playful, supportive, and steamy. Play Me is thoughtful and courageous and passionate. The melody is pure and the notes crisp. Beautiful music that touches my heart and soul!
May 1, 2018
Going into this book I did not read the teasers or the blurb about it. I went in blind and I am so pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this book. Play Me, by Cary Hart, is the first book in the Spotlight Collection and what a wonderful story to start with. Sweet and romantic with a side of angst is what you will get. It's one of those stories that leaves you smiling with a few tears in your eyes as you are reading it.
So well written that you will breeze right through it, because its that good you won't be able to put it down. Easy flow, great story line, just what you need for those moods when only heartwarming book will do.
Ellie loves to sing and play her guitar. Her family..not so much. Now that she has nothing left, what does she have to lose putting herself 110% into her music. But when she encounters Lee, can she give him the chance when everything is moving along with her music?
Lee, finally having a night out, not to worry about all of his obligations, is drawn to the woman on stage. A conversation later and he is hooked. Can he take a risk to have what he has been missing?
Another thing I loved about this book is that how well the characters complimented each other. The easy going"ness" between Lee and Ellie was so prominent that you felt it jump off the pages. Their little inside jokes, just sealed the deal for me. But dealing with their own issues, relatable issues, makes this story.
5 Romantic Stars
**ARC provided by author for honest review**
Review by Lisa, Late Night Reviewer for Up All Night With Books Blog
So well written that you will breeze right through it, because its that good you won't be able to put it down. Easy flow, great story line, just what you need for those moods when only heartwarming book will do.
Ellie loves to sing and play her guitar. Her family..not so much. Now that she has nothing left, what does she have to lose putting herself 110% into her music. But when she encounters Lee, can she give him the chance when everything is moving along with her music?
Lee, finally having a night out, not to worry about all of his obligations, is drawn to the woman on stage. A conversation later and he is hooked. Can he take a risk to have what he has been missing?
Another thing I loved about this book is that how well the characters complimented each other. The easy going"ness" between Lee and Ellie was so prominent that you felt it jump off the pages. Their little inside jokes, just sealed the deal for me. But dealing with their own issues, relatable issues, makes this story.
5 Romantic Stars
**ARC provided by author for honest review**
Review by Lisa, Late Night Reviewer for Up All Night With Books Blog
May 10, 2018
He's been played before and she's focused on her chance in the spotlight. Passion ignites and pasts collide, and when the lights come up it might be too much for either of them. From the very first page this book will have you hooked on Ellie and Lee's journey. Play Me is one of those books that makes you feel every smile, every laugh, and every heartbreak. I adored their meet cute→seriously one of the funniest scenes I've ever read in a romance novel.
Who will you be when no one is watching... when the lights go down? Jump into Play Me and get lost in this honestly sweet story with a whole lot of heart.
Who will you be when no one is watching... when the lights go down? Jump into Play Me and get lost in this honestly sweet story with a whole lot of heart.
October 18, 2019
This is the first book that I have read from Ms. Hart and I truly enjoyed the book. Lee and Ellie were such a great couple. This story will pull on your heartstrings one minute and laughing the next minute. You will be so invested in this story that you won’t want it to end. That epilogue was perfect. As I said, this was my first book by this author and it won’t be my last. Time to move on to book 2.
May 8, 2018
This is the first book I have read by Cary Hart. This was a really good book. I really liked Lee and Ellie. They are very strong people when facing their adversities. Also, I really liked the way they supported each other. Parts of the book were bittersweet, but it just added to the overall story. I will definitely be reading the next in the series.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
May 8, 2018
4 stars
All the feels with this one. Just like the song says "some things are meant to be".
Eloise Hawthorne was a puppet and her privileged, entitled ass of a father is the one pulling the strings. Sure she's grown up with the best of everything, except love, affection, or support. Eloise is just a puppet on a string but Ellie...she's her own woman. She's finally ready to chase her dreams and be her own woman. They're harder than ever to chase since she's on her own but she quickly realizes she's got more family beside her than she ever did with her blood relatives. Oh and one very cute guy with the cheesiest pick up lines.
Lee is a young man left behind by the one person meant to love you unconditionally and is now caught up in taking care of the person who taught him what unconditional love actually meant. His Grans is the only mother he's ever known and now he's losing her to an insidious disease that he can't control. It doesn't leave a lot of time to care for himself. He never believed in fate until he met Ellie but she's quickly becoming the (second) most important person in his life. Reminding him he can love and teaching him how to live. But their dreams, and families, seem to be on different paths. Will another woman who vowed to love him leave him to chase her dreams?
These two were so perfect for each other. Both so focused on the lives of their loved ones that their missing out on life. Lee with his cheesy pick up lines was a breath of fresh air and I adored Ellie and Rain! Grans was an all-star character. She made me long for the grandmother I never had. Enough angst to make it tragic but so beautiful in the end.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
All the feels with this one. Just like the song says "some things are meant to be".
Eloise Hawthorne was a puppet and her privileged, entitled ass of a father is the one pulling the strings. Sure she's grown up with the best of everything, except love, affection, or support. Eloise is just a puppet on a string but Ellie...she's her own woman. She's finally ready to chase her dreams and be her own woman. They're harder than ever to chase since she's on her own but she quickly realizes she's got more family beside her than she ever did with her blood relatives. Oh and one very cute guy with the cheesiest pick up lines.
Lee is a young man left behind by the one person meant to love you unconditionally and is now caught up in taking care of the person who taught him what unconditional love actually meant. His Grans is the only mother he's ever known and now he's losing her to an insidious disease that he can't control. It doesn't leave a lot of time to care for himself. He never believed in fate until he met Ellie but she's quickly becoming the (second) most important person in his life. Reminding him he can love and teaching him how to live. But their dreams, and families, seem to be on different paths. Will another woman who vowed to love him leave him to chase her dreams?
These two were so perfect for each other. Both so focused on the lives of their loved ones that their missing out on life. Lee with his cheesy pick up lines was a breath of fresh air and I adored Ellie and Rain! Grans was an all-star character. She made me long for the grandmother I never had. Enough angst to make it tragic but so beautiful in the end.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
May 5, 2018
All the feels with this one. Just like the song says "some things are meant to be".
Eloise Hawthorne was a puppet and her privileged, entitled ass of a father is the one pulling the strings. Sure she's grown up with the best of everything, except love, affection, or support. Eloise is just a puppet on a string but Ellie...she's her own woman. She's finally ready to chase her dreams and be her own woman. They're harder than ever to chase since she's on her own but she quickly realizes she's got more family beside her than she ever did with her blood relatives. Oh and one very cute guy with the cheesiest pick up lines.
Lee is a young man left behind by the one person meant to love you unconditionally and is now caught up in taking care of the person who taught him what unconditional love actually meant. His Grans is the only mother he's ever known and now he's losing her to an insidious disease that he can't control. It doesn't leave a lot of time to care for himself. He never believed in fate until he met Ellie but she's quickly becoming the (second) most important person in his life. Reminding him he can love and teaching him how to live. But their dreams, and families, seem to be on different paths. Will another woman who vowed to love him leave him to chase her dreams?
These two were so perfect for each other. Both so focused on the lives of their loved ones that their missing out on life. Lee with his cheesy pick up lines was a breath of fresh air and I adored Ellie and Rain! Grans was an all-star character. She made me long for the grandmother I never had. Enough angst to make it tragic but so beautiful in the end.
Eloise Hawthorne was a puppet and her privileged, entitled ass of a father is the one pulling the strings. Sure she's grown up with the best of everything, except love, affection, or support. Eloise is just a puppet on a string but Ellie...she's her own woman. She's finally ready to chase her dreams and be her own woman. They're harder than ever to chase since she's on her own but she quickly realizes she's got more family beside her than she ever did with her blood relatives. Oh and one very cute guy with the cheesiest pick up lines.
Lee is a young man left behind by the one person meant to love you unconditionally and is now caught up in taking care of the person who taught him what unconditional love actually meant. His Grans is the only mother he's ever known and now he's losing her to an insidious disease that he can't control. It doesn't leave a lot of time to care for himself. He never believed in fate until he met Ellie but she's quickly becoming the (second) most important person in his life. Reminding him he can love and teaching him how to live. But their dreams, and families, seem to be on different paths. Will another woman who vowed to love him leave him to chase her dreams?
These two were so perfect for each other. Both so focused on the lives of their loved ones that their missing out on life. Lee with his cheesy pick up lines was a breath of fresh air and I adored Ellie and Rain! Grans was an all-star character. She made me long for the grandmother I never had. Enough angst to make it tragic but so beautiful in the end.
May 2, 2018
This was a great book about following your dreams and how sometimes your dreams can cause pain to others.
I loved how determined Ellie was to have her career, even though it meant giving up everything. I really hated her dad and how he treated her and how unsupportive he was. I thought Ellie’s friendship with Rain was great and how that allowed her to follow her dreams and gave her a great opportunity to showcase herself.
Lee was awesome and I loved how he took care of his Grans and was doing the best he could. I completely understood why he was so angry when his mom showed back up and I was somewhat shocked at why she came back. Grans was so incredible and wise when she was coherent, and I hated the moments when the Alzheimer’s took over. Having family members with Alzheimer’s I completely understood what they were all going through.
The following your dreams idea was a tricky one in the story as it showed all different sides to it which I thought was great! Ellie’s mom gave up her dreams to have a family and Lee’s mom gave up her family to follow her dreams so it was interesting to read how Ellie was going to end up.
I was again so mad at Ellie’s dad at the end and he was just such a jerk but at least it helped Grans out!
I loved the end and look forward to more from the author!
I loved how determined Ellie was to have her career, even though it meant giving up everything. I really hated her dad and how he treated her and how unsupportive he was. I thought Ellie’s friendship with Rain was great and how that allowed her to follow her dreams and gave her a great opportunity to showcase herself.
Lee was awesome and I loved how he took care of his Grans and was doing the best he could. I completely understood why he was so angry when his mom showed back up and I was somewhat shocked at why she came back. Grans was so incredible and wise when she was coherent, and I hated the moments when the Alzheimer’s took over. Having family members with Alzheimer’s I completely understood what they were all going through.
The following your dreams idea was a tricky one in the story as it showed all different sides to it which I thought was great! Ellie’s mom gave up her dreams to have a family and Lee’s mom gave up her family to follow her dreams so it was interesting to read how Ellie was going to end up.
I was again so mad at Ellie’s dad at the end and he was just such a jerk but at least it helped Grans out!
I loved the end and look forward to more from the author!
May 3, 2018
Play Me by Cary Hart
“The hometown boy and the musician, 3 stars”
Ellie may have been blessed with a privileged live but its always had strings attached. She’s been groomed to be one way but craves a life in the opposite direction. Will she cash in her cush life and live in the unknown trying to make her dream come true? Or will she settle for less than what she wants out of life?
Lee is dependable. He’s the kind of guy who stays. He’s loyal to a fault. But just this once he wants to live a little dangerously by being with the girl who craves adventure. A broken heart is possible, but will it be worth it? What happens when a ghost from his past comes crashing forward? Everything is up in the air in Play Me.
I did like Lee and Ellie but at times I was frustrated with them and how the story just seemed to play out. I wanted more than what I got out of the story but it was still a quality story. Some of the secondary characters were awesome and some were less than stellar. My heart hurt for Ellie at times and for Lee as well. From the title I thought there would be more of a musician aspect but there wasn’t. This story was good, but I just couldn’t fall into it.
Plot- 3/5
Characters-3/5
Heat-3/5
Writing style-4/5
Overall-3/5
“The hometown boy and the musician, 3 stars”
Ellie may have been blessed with a privileged live but its always had strings attached. She’s been groomed to be one way but craves a life in the opposite direction. Will she cash in her cush life and live in the unknown trying to make her dream come true? Or will she settle for less than what she wants out of life?
Lee is dependable. He’s the kind of guy who stays. He’s loyal to a fault. But just this once he wants to live a little dangerously by being with the girl who craves adventure. A broken heart is possible, but will it be worth it? What happens when a ghost from his past comes crashing forward? Everything is up in the air in Play Me.
I did like Lee and Ellie but at times I was frustrated with them and how the story just seemed to play out. I wanted more than what I got out of the story but it was still a quality story. Some of the secondary characters were awesome and some were less than stellar. My heart hurt for Ellie at times and for Lee as well. From the title I thought there would be more of a musician aspect but there wasn’t. This story was good, but I just couldn’t fall into it.
Plot- 3/5
Characters-3/5
Heat-3/5
Writing style-4/5
Overall-3/5
May 4, 2018
First this is book one in the Spotlight Collection..Ellie and Lee were connected on a level that was strong. When they first met is was sweet, and so funny. He didn’t know who she was. A twist of events changed all that. But for some reason they found each other again. He couldn’t leave without
getting to know her. She was always on his mind.
Ellie couldn’t believe after all this time she would see Lee again. Her life changed after he left, and after her family took over. Now things were different, and she was on her own. She was going to follow her dream. Music was it for her, but Lee did something to her. He brought something she was missing.
Lee didn’t know what if anything would be between them, but he wanted to find out.
Ellie came to mean so much to him. But he had some much he was taking on. Taking care of his
grandmother. He loved Ellie. He would do anything for her.
See where things lead between them. Buy this book.
This book broke my heart, but warmed it right back up. You will see why.
The characters are amazing.
getting to know her. She was always on his mind.
Ellie couldn’t believe after all this time she would see Lee again. Her life changed after he left, and after her family took over. Now things were different, and she was on her own. She was going to follow her dream. Music was it for her, but Lee did something to her. He brought something she was missing.
Lee didn’t know what if anything would be between them, but he wanted to find out.
Ellie came to mean so much to him. But he had some much he was taking on. Taking care of his
grandmother. He loved Ellie. He would do anything for her.
See where things lead between them. Buy this book.
This book broke my heart, but warmed it right back up. You will see why.
The characters are amazing.
May 2, 2018
Le sigh. I’m trying to process this story to leave a review worthy of this all consuming tale.
It’s everything a book lover could want. Romance. A love so deep and true. Heartbreak. So torn and divided. The meaning of family. Something that is so often lost. I didn’t put this book down for one second. I read it through and through, then read it another time.
These characters are amazing. So well written so addictive. The story is as well. Highly addictive.
Ellie and Lee’s story is one not to be missed. It absolutely everything a fairytale could be made from. Even with the heartbreaking, intense bits of crazy things you do for love.
Ellie has always wanted to follow her dream. All the way to Nashville. Her parents had other ideas for her future though. Eventually something had to give. When push came to shove, Ellie was left to make what she wanted of her life.
Lee is probably one of my favorite characters. He’s sweet, charming and sincere. He’s a total sweetheart. He loves fiercely and is extremely loyal to his Gran. He will do anything to help her and those he cares about.
When these two meet all kinds of sparks fly. But it’s not always enough to keep the one person you want.
This one has all the feels and then some. Truly a 10 Star read.
5/5
It’s everything a book lover could want. Romance. A love so deep and true. Heartbreak. So torn and divided. The meaning of family. Something that is so often lost. I didn’t put this book down for one second. I read it through and through, then read it another time.
These characters are amazing. So well written so addictive. The story is as well. Highly addictive.
Ellie and Lee’s story is one not to be missed. It absolutely everything a fairytale could be made from. Even with the heartbreaking, intense bits of crazy things you do for love.
Ellie has always wanted to follow her dream. All the way to Nashville. Her parents had other ideas for her future though. Eventually something had to give. When push came to shove, Ellie was left to make what she wanted of her life.
Lee is probably one of my favorite characters. He’s sweet, charming and sincere. He’s a total sweetheart. He loves fiercely and is extremely loyal to his Gran. He will do anything to help her and those he cares about.
When these two meet all kinds of sparks fly. But it’s not always enough to keep the one person you want.
This one has all the feels and then some. Truly a 10 Star read.
5/5
May 5, 2018
The rich girl, Ellie, who has everything in life except the one thing she wants more than anything - her parents' support. The poor guy, Lee, who has Grans support but very little else. Can these two make it as a couple or will their differences push them apart?
This was a fantastic book. From the minute They met, you could sense the attraction. On the opposite spectrum, you could sense both of them holding back to minimize any pain or damage. They've both been hurt numerous times from those that were supposed to love & support them. Instead of pushing each other away, these hurts seemed to bring them closer together. Ms. Hart has built an excellent cast of characters here from the father you dislike immensely for being possessive & controlling, the supportive best friend that does anything to help Ellie, the flighty mother that left her son to follow her dream & to Grans that raised Lee like her own son. It was easy to drop into the story & emerge at the end weary from the emotional pulls & tears eyed. Lee's struggles to accept Grans' new path & future were truly heart wrenching. This is one of those books that words just can't do justice to & needs to just be experienced!
This was a fantastic book. From the minute They met, you could sense the attraction. On the opposite spectrum, you could sense both of them holding back to minimize any pain or damage. They've both been hurt numerous times from those that were supposed to love & support them. Instead of pushing each other away, these hurts seemed to bring them closer together. Ms. Hart has built an excellent cast of characters here from the father you dislike immensely for being possessive & controlling, the supportive best friend that does anything to help Ellie, the flighty mother that left her son to follow her dream & to Grans that raised Lee like her own son. It was easy to drop into the story & emerge at the end weary from the emotional pulls & tears eyed. Lee's struggles to accept Grans' new path & future were truly heart wrenching. This is one of those books that words just can't do justice to & needs to just be experienced!
May 6, 2018
Lee is such a sweet person trying his best to take care of the person who loved him when his own mother wouldn't. A big difference from Ellie who had 2 parents and lacked the support she so desperately wanted. Yeah I admit it was a insta love kinda thing but this author sure doesn't let it feel that way. This is a deeply emotional story mainly because of the topics it tackles. They each end up being a refuge for the other, their peace, their reason to stay. It's a story about being selfless, no matter the costs. So get ready to laugh, sigh, cringe, oh hell just let the emotions flow.
I read a lot of books by various types of writers. Some when they first start out. This author is one of those that I started reading and something about her story and enthusiasm for sharing her love of writing drew me in. The more she writes the better she gets. Her characters are getting deeper and more engaging. Her plots are strong and her ability to draw you in and make you want more is better than ever.
I read a lot of books by various types of writers. Some when they first start out. This author is one of those that I started reading and something about her story and enthusiasm for sharing her love of writing drew me in. The more she writes the better she gets. Her characters are getting deeper and more engaging. Her plots are strong and her ability to draw you in and make you want more is better than ever.
May 3, 2018
Wow when a author has you laughing so hard one min and crying the next you just know it’s going to be a great book! Elle is the rich girl from the other side of the tracks and she wants to sing but her parents frown on that they want her to be a lawyer like her father one night she meets a boy named lee he’s the boy from the other side of the tracks that just wants to take care of his grams and he has so many skeletons in his closet but when Elle gets kicked out and her bestie we love her btw she’s frenkin hilarious gets her a place and a job she runs back into lee could she help him with these past discretions and both them find love and Elle pursue her singing career! Loved reading this and can’t wait to read more!
May 11, 2018
This is a must read. Ellie and Lee the two main characters of the book will have you wanting more and more of their story as you continue to read. Both Ellie and Lee have had struggles throughout their lives beginning at an early age. Both are very talented in different ways. Ellie with her talent of writing and singing songs and Lee with construction and wood working. Ellie and Lee’s worlds intertwine into something beautiful. Selfless love - can their love for each other be enough to hold them together? Well I could give you all the answers to what transpires in this book but that’s not happening. This is another great book by Cary and I look forward to reading the next book. Enjoy this one as I truly believe you will because I fell in love with these characters and their story.
May 9, 2018
Rating: 3.5*
Follow your dreams but remember that your dreams can change.
Ellie has music in her blood and refuses to give up her performances and music despite her best efforts to stop her. They are controlling, wanting her to travel a specific path and quite vile in their treatment of her. This treatment leaves her on the streets with virtually nothing.
Lee runs the first time he meets her and nearly does the second time too but her voice pulls her in. Juggling work and caring for the grandmother who raised him takes most of his time.
Ellie's strength and passion were what stood out for me, alongside Lee's compassion and generosity. This was a nice read with conflict causing some tension. A really enjoyable way to spend a few hours reading.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Follow your dreams but remember that your dreams can change.
Ellie has music in her blood and refuses to give up her performances and music despite her best efforts to stop her. They are controlling, wanting her to travel a specific path and quite vile in their treatment of her. This treatment leaves her on the streets with virtually nothing.
Lee runs the first time he meets her and nearly does the second time too but her voice pulls her in. Juggling work and caring for the grandmother who raised him takes most of his time.
Ellie's strength and passion were what stood out for me, alongside Lee's compassion and generosity. This was a nice read with conflict causing some tension. A really enjoyable way to spend a few hours reading.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
April 30, 2018
This 4 star read was my first from this author. I enjoyed this sweet romance about Lee and Ellie. Slow burn with plenty of angsty heart wrenching decisions that really make you pull for these two to make it work. I absolutely LOVED Grans, and having a relative who suffered from the same debilitating illness I really could relate to what Lee was going through with her. What Ellie went through with her father broke my heart. This was just a sweet,funny, romantic love story that was fairly tame on the heat. I'd for sure recommend it, especially to those who like those intimate moments to be alittle more sweet and a little less spicy!
April 28, 2018
This book is gonna melt your heart and make you wanna scream out loud at the same time! You’re gonna laugh and you’re probably going to cry but it’s worth it, I promise!
Lee is so cute with his one liners. They’re so cheesy but you “Can’t Help Falling In Love” with him!
You’re gonna want to strangle Mr. Hawthorne. His audacity is amazing.
You’ll LOVE Grans to pieces. The first time she meets Ellie is hilarious!
Ellie...ooh Eloise Hawthorne...what are we going to do with you?!?! Her passion, her drive, and her ability to love gave this story the ending it deserved.
Lee is so cute with his one liners. They’re so cheesy but you “Can’t Help Falling In Love” with him!
You’re gonna want to strangle Mr. Hawthorne. His audacity is amazing.
You’ll LOVE Grans to pieces. The first time she meets Ellie is hilarious!
Ellie...ooh Eloise Hawthorne...what are we going to do with you?!?! Her passion, her drive, and her ability to love gave this story the ending it deserved.
April 29, 2018
Lee and Ellie are a wonderful couple. You will fall in love with all the cheesy pick up lines that are being said. This book kept me reading right from the start, and they are not many that can do that for me .
Ellie Father is a pain and does not trust that Ellie can go far. Her mom thinks she can go really far.
Lee Grams is a wonderful always trying to see what kind of trouble she can get into, and makes sure that Lee find happiness like she did. Lee mother is hard to figure out sometimes you will think that she is self centered and others she trying to do right.
To find out more about this book please read it. I think that you will love it just as much as I do.
Ellie Father is a pain and does not trust that Ellie can go far. Her mom thinks she can go really far.
Lee Grams is a wonderful always trying to see what kind of trouble she can get into, and makes sure that Lee find happiness like she did. Lee mother is hard to figure out sometimes you will think that she is self centered and others she trying to do right.
To find out more about this book please read it. I think that you will love it just as much as I do.
May 11, 2018
Play Me has all the elements I love in a romance. Add in cheesy pick-up lines and a singer chasing her Nashville dreams, and I'm hooked. Hart has a way with words, making you feel and get pulled into a story from the beginning. Play Me is no different. Between Ellie's own family struggles and Lee's unconditional loyalty to his Grans, I found myself cheering for these two to find their happiness while also questioning how they can juggle it all. This book is full of heart and sweet moments, weaving a story that transports you into this fictional world and keeps you there.
April 30, 2018
I received an ARC of this in exchange for a honest review.
What a story! Once I started this, I couldn’t put it down. Normally I’m not a huge rockstar reader but this surpassed all my expectations. It was nothing like I thought it would be. It was more. This goes above and beyond. Ellie and Rain are hysterical together and Ellie and Lee are just, I don’t know, on fire! I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the page. Not even to take my dogs out. It was more important to me to see if Ellie and Lee can make it through. I recommend everyone read this!
What a story! Once I started this, I couldn’t put it down. Normally I’m not a huge rockstar reader but this surpassed all my expectations. It was nothing like I thought it would be. It was more. This goes above and beyond. Ellie and Rain are hysterical together and Ellie and Lee are just, I don’t know, on fire! I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the page. Not even to take my dogs out. It was more important to me to see if Ellie and Lee can make it through. I recommend everyone read this!
May 2, 2018
Oh yes. This book hooked me from the first few pages and kept me on the edge of my seat til the last word. The humour, the heart, and the beautifully composed interactions between exquisitely imagined characters shows how rapidly Cary Hart is maturing as an author: this is her best work yet. I am so, so excited to continue reading this series! Love that some of our favourite characters made an appearance, too.
May 3, 2018
Cary Hart named this book wrong. she should have called it Heart String. This story will play with your heart and leave you with that warm gooey feeling. Cary has you feeling the whole gamit of emotions in this story from disappointment to longing to acceptance and finally to love. Cary knocked it out of the park with this story. The story flows so well. You will not be disappointed reading this story.
This is a non-bias review of an ARC.
This is a non-bias review of an ARC.
May 3, 2018
Absolutely loved it! I loved that it was full of love, hate and humor. Grans with her quick wit, Lee with his corny pick-up lines just made it more fun to read. The love/hate relationships we all have with our parents at one time or another just makes the book easier to relate to and adds more emotion to the story. The story line of Ellie and Lee kept you reading wanting to know more. Another great book from Cary Hart... I can't wait for the next one!
May 4, 2018
This is the first book in a spin off series of Battlefield of Love and centers around the nightclub, Spotlight. Ellie is an aspiring singer/musician who is getting a shot at performing at Spotlight and before she goes on stage she meets Lee who hits on her with a cheesy pick up line. There is an instant attraction between the two but before they can really connect they are separated by issues in their lives. They are both dealing with issues with their families and before they can be happy together they each need to overcome their troubles. Of course it isn’t easy for them.
I did like at the end when they were trying to resolve their problems they actually talked and didn’t ignore what was going on. They each had to go after their dream even if it wasn’t what was best for them as a couple right then. There were a couple times when I geared up and then there we times I chuckled. Lee’s pick up lines where definite mood lifters.
I did like at the end when they were trying to resolve their problems they actually talked and didn’t ignore what was going on. They each had to go after their dream even if it wasn’t what was best for them as a couple right then. There were a couple times when I geared up and then there we times I chuckled. Lee’s pick up lines where definite mood lifters.
May 10, 2018
Read this book in 1 session. Was hooked and couldn’t wait to see where Cary Hart took us in this journey.
I loved that, although the characters were young, the struggles and growth were relatable to any reader.
I loved how Lee had a lot to learn also, and wasn’t just there to rescue Ellie from life.
The storyline was so engrossing, I stayed on it and read until the end. At which point, I was hunting for more from Cary to read.
I loved that, although the characters were young, the struggles and growth were relatable to any reader.
I loved how Lee had a lot to learn also, and wasn’t just there to rescue Ellie from life.
The storyline was so engrossing, I stayed on it and read until the end. At which point, I was hunting for more from Cary to read.
May 7, 2018
A sweet love story of two broken hearts which are meant to be. Ashley @ White Hot Reads
My first book of Cary Hart’s and it will not be my last. Ellie is the spoiled rich kid who decides that follow her dream rather than do what she is told is what she needs. The two people who should be supporting her are the ones that are pushing her away. Lee the boy with all the love and support of his Grandmother but has had to work for everything he has ever had. Ellie and Lee are a meant to be a couple who do not know the ties that their lives together. The attraction and story of their love just draw you in and makes you feel everything that these two are feeling. A fantastic read!
My first book of Cary Hart’s and it will not be my last. Ellie is the spoiled rich kid who decides that follow her dream rather than do what she is told is what she needs. The two people who should be supporting her are the ones that are pushing her away. Lee the boy with all the love and support of his Grandmother but has had to work for everything he has ever had. Ellie and Lee are a meant to be a couple who do not know the ties that their lives together. The attraction and story of their love just draw you in and makes you feel everything that these two are feeling. A fantastic read!
May 8, 2018
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by Cary Hart. This was a really good book. I really liked Lee and Ellie. They are very strong people when facing their adversities. Also, I really liked the way they supported each other. Parts of the book were bittersweet, but it just added to the overall story. I will definitely be reading the next in the series.
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