| Title | : | The Player |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | ebook |
| Number of Pages | : | 320 |
| Publication | : | First published October 8, 2016 |
I've never met a man who doesn't want to be me or a woman who doesn't want to tame me. Until I meet Camila.
From the moment I lay eyes on her, I know I have to have her.
She wants to keep me at arm's length.
I want her naked in my bed.
She thinks our worlds are too different.
All I want her to think about is screaming my name.
She says I’m bad news.
I have three weeks to prove her wrong.
The Player Reviews
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★★★★1/2! The Player (stand-alone). Famous soccer star & manwhore meets the girl who sees beyond the player!
“I’d give up my career to chase moments with the right woman.”
The Player (stand-alone) is a world-wind sport romance. Imagine a girl catching the attention of the most famous soccer player in the world.
Except having no idea who he is.
That’s exactly what happened to regular girl Camila Avila. Peach aka Rocky. Soccer super star and real estate investor Warren Silva, War aka War Zone is intrigued by the feisty beauty and sets out to get her in his bed.
Except Camila is not easily seduced.
After the shock settles, Warren must do what any sensible and horny manwhore would do; Turn up the charm, not be deterred and being willing to settle for a friendship.
Except Warren’s only got a couple of weeks to change her mind.
Warren will learn to appreciate the simply things in life. While Camila will learn a thing or two about multiple orgasms. And in the process they must both learn to compromise and strive to find themselves.
“She wasn’t the kind of woman you fucked and left. She was the kind of woman that made you want to stay and confront life’s chaos with.”
Seven words to describe Warren Silva, War aka War Zone: Charming, self-assured, secretive, unassuming, relentless, possessive and determined.
Seven words to describe Camila Avila. Peach aka Rocky: Stubborn, spirited, observant, insecure, complex, scattered and conflicted.
The Player, told from dual POVs, aside from being a swept-off-your-feet-by-a-superstar, is very much friends-to-lovers romance. Add to that sizzling sex courtesy Warren Silva, and sprinkle of angst, surprises, self-reflection and growth all the way to the perfect ending.
“Even in your absence, my love for you grows.���
***
Hero rating: 4 stars
Heroine rating: 4- stars
Sexual tension rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4 stars
Plot rating: 4 stars
Dialogue rating: 4.5 stars
Storytelling rating: 4.5 stars
Story ending rating: 4.5 stars
**********************************************
Overall rating: 4.5 stars
Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
ARC provided to me by author Claire Contreras in exchange for an honest review. -
4.5 stars!
When I heard that Claire Contreras was writing a sports romance, I knew I had to get my hands on it. When I saw the cover, I was looking forward to reading it even more! The Player is different than her other books, but I was not disappointed in the least. Fun, engaging, sexy and sweet- this is a fantastic read!
Warren Silva is back in his home town of NYC for three weeks. He is a top football player in Manchester and this is the longest he’s been away from the sport in years. He has family things to take care of, then he expects to get on with his life overseas. What he doesn’t expect is to meet someone like Camila. The moment he lays eyes on her, he knows there is something about this woman. He’ll do whatever it takes to get her.
Camila is a strong and independent woman. She lives in Washington Heights and works in a field where she serves others. She’s a kind a giving person. When she meets War for the first time, she doesn’t know what to think. He’s insanely attractive, but anyone with eyes can see that. But that’s where it stops for her. They’re not in the same world.
Oh, my. You could seriously feel the attraction and sexual tension jumping off the pages between these two. I just knew when Camila gave into Warren, it would be explosive. And it certainly was. These two together are smoking hot!
Warren Silva. What can I say about this man? He is your typical professional athlete in many ways. He’s rich, a bit cocky, self assured and is used to getting what he wants. He also has a soft side. A side that doesn’t come out often, but is definitely there. Camila has a huge heart but she’s not a push over. She’s got a bit of snark to her. I adored her. She truly is a beautiful person and worthy of someone like Warren’s heart. Both of these characters know what is truly important in life and it’s not money or fame.
The Player is one of those books that I didn’t want to put down once I started. The writing is strong, the characters are endearing and the story is sexy as well as heartwarming. I enjoyed this story so much! 4.5 stars.
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"You'll be the death of me, pretty girl," he said, grabbing my arms to position me so I was on all fours facing the window."
➦This was my first read by Claire Contreras and I have to say that I did enjoy the book. I'm always a sucker for famous celebrity falling for a regular girl trope :)
➦Warren Silva is a soccer star extraordinaire and is married. To his career, of course. Non-stop practice and travelling for games, a girl in every city and a lot of meaningless sex - that about sums up a life of Silva.
➦Camila works for an organization that helps build parks for kids. She is a rather shy person but she finds her voice and stands up for the tenants of the building she lives in, who are getting evicted with almost no notice. Silva and Camila meet during the meeting where she makes her case, so to speak. Silva is immediately infatuated with her and keeps pursuing her relentlessly even though she keeps refusing his advances time and again.
➦I enjoyed the chase that was going on for a while. Silva is very confused, of course, because he has never been said no to before. I do have to say that this trope has been done soooooo many times before and, even though enjoyable, the story progressed in a rather predictable manner.
➦Being a huge fan of sports romances I kept wishing for a bit more of the actual sport in the story. There wasn't much of it until the very end because the first part of the book took place in New York City, where Silva was vacationing for a couple of weeks.
❤The book was pretty hot, just read the quote at the beginning of my review ^.^ If you love tatted up heroes, I think this one might intrigue you :) I, personally, didn't fall head over heels for him. But that happens, I meet a lot of these imaginary men every week :D haha.
✘One part, perhaps, that left me a bit confused was the backstory of Camila's father going to jail. It seems like a pretty important part of the book but at the end there wasn't any definitive answer as to what actually happened. The fact that Camila hated the person who was responsible for her father going to jail but still went to "pay respects" at that person's funeral boggled me. I didn't get it.
➦Recommended to those who enjoy famous/celebrity romances, sports romances, tatted up heroes. Give it a try! :)
Just for funzies:"I felt the length of him all the way to my chest, the girth of him taking up the rest of the space inside me, and I gasped loudly."
...is he a... horse? :D
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➳WOAH! What a freaking book which brings the definition of unique to a whole new level. Claire Contreras sure knows how to hook you in with the love of a sport...
➳So lets take a moment to appreciate the male protagonist's name; Warren. Warren... also known as War and in the field known as War Zone because of the way he plays with full force in the soccer field. His career has made him into a true professional ever since he was fourteen and moved to Spain to grow his experience as a soccer player, which in the story he is known worldwide. Warren has to make an unexpected visit to New York for some investment issues that he had done in the past and has to deal with. During his visit, that's when he sees Camila...
➳Camila has a past. She went from being wealthy to a life thats opposite to what Warren has. Her origin of being Dominican is something that sparks in this story. When Camila and Warren "first" meet, she rejects him so hard it's kind of funny. But when she finally opens up to him, she is confused on her fast feelings being evolved;
➳"I don't want to want you this much," I whispered when our lips broke apart.
His eyes searched mine, his gaze softening. "But you do."
"But I do."
"And you can't will the feeling away."
I shook my head, looking at him...
"Neither can I," he said, placing his forehead against mine. "Neither can I."
➳Even though Camila came from a family of somewhat having wealth, her relationship with Warren becomes an issue to her because of his wealth. She always feels like he is someone else when he isn't with her, and Warren definitely sees that. Something that caught my eye throughout the story, is the personal life little things Claire adds, like; Captain America and Warren's nephew loving it as much as Camila does. Me being a total comic-book obsessed freak, I understand the love and I appreciate how Claire adds the proper amount of comic information to make me geek out hahaha!
➳The steamy scenes... Well, well... **cough cough** lets just say that Warren sure as heck knows how to use his hands, which is ironic because as a soccer player your hands are restricted from usage hahahaha, and Camila knows how to comply as well ;)
➳Something that is brought upon Warren's bachelor ways is the fact that he had a girl for every state; "Texas girl, California girl, that Chicago girl" etc. But to Warren's eyes;
➳"She wasn't my New York Girl.
She was my game changer."
➳Claire Contreras did a wonderful job with this story, and has made me obsess over how incredible Warren is and the idea of having second chances being possible!
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
➳Hero rating: 4.5
➳Heroine rating: 5.0
➳Sexual tension rating: 5.0
➳Sex scenes rating: 5.0
➳Sex scenes frequency: 4.0
➳Plot rating: 4.5
➳Dialogue rating: 5.0
➳Storytelling rating: 5.0
➳Story ending rating: 4.5
➳ARC kindly provided by author, Claire Contreras in exchange for an honest review
➳Order your copies:
iBooks ||
B&N ||
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GooglePlay || Amazon Ebook will be available on release day, October 10th.
➳Paperbacks:
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➳ARC kindly provided by author, Claire Contreras in exchange for an honest review -
*****4.5 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
From the moment I laid eyes on her, I knew she’d be different. From the first conversation, I knew she’d be worth it. From the moment I had her, I knew I’d never get enough.
THE PLAYER is Claire Contreras’ first sports romance novel and she has succeeded in delivering an intoxicating and sensual read!! As soon as I saw the gorgeous cover I just knew there was no way the story wasn’t going to be anything less than a winner. Ladies, we have a new cocky and sexy as hell book boyfriend to fall in love with and his name is Warren “War Zone” Silva!!!
Warren, aka “War”, is Manchester’s most famous and beloved soccer player. He’s known for driving fast cars and seducing tons of women. Soccer has been his entire world since he was fourteen, which is when he left his home and family for Europe, where he began his career in the sport. In all the years that he has been away from the states, he’s only made it back a couple of times and managed to avoid visiting with his family. His relationship with his father was damaged beyond repair and it’s the reason why he’s kept his distance from New York, but now during his three-week vacation, he finds himself back in the city he never thought he’d be back in. War is a partner in one of the biggest real estate corporations in NYC and the tenants of one of his apartment complexes have a bone to pick with him. During a meeting with the tenants, he finds himself drawn to a beautiful and feisty woman who will come to be one of the biggest challenges of his life.
Camila Silva finds herself on the verge of being homeless and decides she will not go down without a fight. At a meeting with some of the tenants and the building owners, she notices War and can’t help but appreciate his stunning good looks. But Camila has had her heart broken in the past and she can tell that War is a serious player, one in which she needs to keep her distance from. She has no idea the tenacity that War has and that she is no match for his persistence. War always gets what he wants and it seems that Camila has beyond captivated him and he’ll do whatever it takes to make her his.
Even though Camila thinks War is out of her league because she doesn’t come from a wealthy background, the two actually have so much in common. They both have non-existent relationships with their estranged fathers and both have been burned by love in the past, but now War is willing to take another chance on love and when Camila finally gives in to his advances, well let’s just say their passion burns hotter than the sun!!
When they realize that they’re starting to fall in love, the big question is – how can they make it work while living on different Continents?? War is about to reach the pinnacle of his career in soccer and Cami has just gotten her father back and has a rewarding career herself. But that isn’t the only hurdle the couple will have to overcome. A secret could end up destroying any chances they have at an HEA.
THE PLAYER is currently available. This is one to bump up your TBR if you haven’t had a chance to read it yet. You’ll find it hard not to fall head over heels in love with War!!!
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Google:
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"We're just chasing moments together. After all, isn't that what life is all about?"
The Player is one smoking hot read that you will not want to miss! I am a huge fan of Claire Contreras and this contemporary romance about a hot soccer star and the Dominican Republic girl certainly did not disappoint! The Player will you steal your heart, make you laugh, and have you swooning over every page!
"Last time I tamed a player, I got burned."
Camilla is a strong independent NYC girl. She is close to her family and has found success in her job helping troubled teens. When she receives word that she is going to be evicted from her building for new construction to go up, she is livid. She and her friends go directly to the source in hopes to convince them to re-think their plans.
When Camilla takes on the big corporation responsible, she comes face to face with an athletic god named Warren. Unbeknownst to her, Warren is a soccer superstar who is in the states for a few weeks. Warren is quite taken with Camilla, and once he sets his sites on her, he will do whatever it takes to win her affections or in the least get her in his bed!"I have trust issues." "So do I."
"I haven't chased after a woman since I was seventeen, so you should take it as a compliment."
Camilla is no stranger to players and is adamant about staying away from the wealthy superstar. With his manwhore reputation and playboy status, Camilla doesn't want anything to do with him. Warren is convinced that Camilla is different and wants to get to know her. He steps away from the fancy cars and five-star restaurants and spends time with Camilla in New York. Between riding the subway and spending time with her family, Camilla and Warren fall in love. But even the greatest star-crossed romances can't compete with deep secrets that can tear them apart. Warren will do whatever it takes to keep Camilla by his side."I don't want to want you this much."
"But you do."
"But I do."
"It was craze and wonder as he brought me to the brink again. I was still panting, writhing...he settled between me, placing his forehead against mine, and with our gazes still locked, he tugged my hand and placed it over his heart, where I could feel it beating wildly, unrestrained."
Told in dual POV, The Player is rich with its scenic backdrop, complex characters, and riveting plot. I was completely enraptured by the plight of both main characters as they revealed their insecurities. Their families and friends enhanced the plot greatly with their unique personalities and witty dialogue! Perhaps my favorite element of the read is the sensory overload I experienced while reading this book. There is nothing better than seeing, hearing, smelling, and tasting each and every moment. The writing is quite descriptive and so complete that I didn't miss one single moment! The passion between Warren and Camilla was smoking hot, and their relationship has a natural evolution that was equally heartbreaking and genuinely touching at the same time. It's no secret that I love a tattooed alpha male but add in a spunky, independent heroine and my Kindle, and I are very very happy!
Overall, I recommend The Player to ALL of my reading friends. I believe this is one beautiful romance that everyone should experience. With the complex characters, sports action, intricate plot, and smoking hot passion, Warren and Camilla are officially one of my favorite couples of all time! Bravo Ms. Contreras!
~This was a BR with my CRAZY BLOG BESTIE LOYDA!~
Check out our TRAILER HERE:
https://craziesrusbookblog.wordpress....
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*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!
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2.25/5
I don't know. I really don't know. This just wasn't what I expected...
The story started out nice and it was an ok read until around the beginning of the last quarter, Camila found out who exactly Warren is and then she went crazy. Things went downhill from there.
At first, I liked Camila just fine, but the more I read, she became less and less adorable. And by the end, I couldn't care less about her! I have no idea what Warren saw in her. In my opinion, she didn't deserve his love at all.
I guess I'm in the minority here. I’m sorry, but it’s hard for me to love the book that I strongly dislike one or both protagonists. However, the plot itself wasn’t that bad, but the heroine and the drama just didn’t work for me.
By the way, I hope my review hasn’t discouraged you from reading this book. You might enjoy it more than I did. -
3.5 More Than Just The Playing Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
I have already confessed my first attraction to this book was the perfect cover...There... I got that out of the way. It gave all the readers thoughts on who this "player was going to be...A staggering beautiful man, at the top of his game...and wanted by all....and basically, this was that man. This cover and blurb promised all the smexy goodness of a chase, a need to tame, a determination to have his target on his terms one way or another...even though the woman in question has turned him down. As romance readers...we all know this ought to be fun and games with hopes for a terrific read....and primarily it was...But what captured my heart and stayed with me, wasn't this smexy stunning man....What my takeaway was the woman he was pursuing...who she was, her family's beliefs and love for each other no matter what...and her strength to hold on through difficult times maintaining a grace and class throughout.
Her name is Camila Avila, a woman who has lived a complex life of 25. She knew of a regular existence, then was plopped into a loftier one where whatever was wanted was given... only to have it plucked away swiftly. She finished her high school life in a public school adjusting to the ways of Washington Heights. Through it all, her Dominican family held together with love and strength... taking these life lessons as they came. It molded Camila to see clearly... nothing is set in stone...
She became a talented landscape architect who worked at a nonprofit creating play space for the communities. These spaces provided the necessary escapes for the underprivileged youth there and the results were extremely positive. She also was part of her own community and it was being taken over by developers who were looking to tear down another apartment building with shops below. The tenants had been living and working there for years and were given only 30 days notice to move out.
It was especially galling for Camila because the group which was doing this takeover had been stripping the community and impacting her for quite some time.
Warren Silva, our footballer (soccer for US terms), is on a 3-week break from his professional season. He is everything a famous sought after star is.... World-Renowned, the best in his field and with a nickname of War Zone and a playboy reputation to match. He has lived overseas since 14, being sent away by his father and now is here partially due to the man being in the hospital. Warren also is looking into his financial dealings. He has investments with the same group which is tearing down Camila's housing.
It is at the community hearing where Camila and her neighbors are confronting the real estate group of how unfair they are acting in this manner where we see these two meet. Warren is sitting with them and is distracted by his phone when Camila gets up and forcibly addresses the men about their practices.
Warren is caught blindsided...first by this vision and then secondly by what she is saying. To hear what these businessmen are so cavalierly doing to the businesses and homes of these people is not right. He thinks on this as he continues to listen to the men's responses and proceeds to side with the tenants with their concerns.
After the meeting, he approaches Camila because he cannot stop himself...and pitches them getting together....at first in a flirty way expecting her to just fall in line like all the other women he is used to...
Slam...she doesn't and totally shuts him down. Then he tries another tactic of saying he would like to talk about the housing situation... get more information... With this approach, he does a little bit better but still is told ...Fine but that is all she is interested in.
Warren takes whatever entry he can get and as he then meets goes to the bar Camila helps out, he realizes she has absolutely no idea as to who he is, how famous or his talent...How refreshing in that he can just be himself for a moment. He still is going to pursue her hardcore.... but at the same time, gives her the respect which is due.
Camila, on the other hand... is yes, taken and intrigued by Warren... and yes, he is hot as all get out...But she is not going to be another notch on his Groupie Footballer belt. They come from two different worlds and he lives overseas, after all... there is no future for them...even though both have sparks and internal desires.
So this is the overall set up for our tale...the hot footballer wanting the young woman who is not a pushover...Yet... there is so much more to this story. The layering is quite strong and encompassing. It deals with trust issues, status concerns and a major understanding of forgiveness.
It is this topic of forgiveness which hit me front and center. Claire Contreras took a smexy styled story and created a multilayered journey highlighting what family means, what hurdles they go through and the roads their children must travel because of it. It was meaty and dense. It touched you deeper than you may have expected if you pay attention...and it was worth the ride.
I only had a few issues and mostly it was how Warren kept thinking of Camila for a period of time like she was a prize...it did morph into the sincere need for her as a person and then he had other self-inflicted obstacles to overcome and rectify.
As you can tell, overall I fell hard for Camila...she was not a cliche and stood her ground. In the end, these two worked and no one got played.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
I admit it...
I mean really... Did you see that cover...
Let's just enjoy that for a minute...Sigh...
Oh, and there is a story too...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
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3.5 Stars
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review* -
****4 Stars****
“If you’re at the other end of the chase, it would be impossible for me to be disappointed.”
This is my first Claire Contreras book and I now know for sure, it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed this book. I can never pass up the chance to read another sports romance story. I love the idea of a hot and athletic hero. This story had everything I crave; hot, steamy scenes, anticipation and the thrill of the chase, with a tatted up alpha male hero to boot.
Camilla is the perfect heroine to me. She’s a strong willed woman who has no problem speaking her mind and standing up for what she believes in and for those in her community. She really knew how to kick ass. I loved absolutely everything about her.
Warren is a hot, rich, cocky pro football (soccer) player with lots of ink. He is currently living in Manchester, England due to his career, but is originally from New York. He is in New York for three weeks to take care of some non-football related business. This is where he meets Camilla and from the moment he lays eyes on her, he wants her. Warren can have any woman he wants and generally does have a woman in each city he visits. He certainly does live life in the fast lane.
At first, Camilla is not buying into War’s charms. She knows they are from two completely different worlds and any sort of relationship would never work. Warren is however, persistent. I absolutely loved the whole anticipation that went along with Warren attempting to woo Camilla. The drama and chase was enjoyable for me and kept me engrossed.
"He kissed me as if my lips contained the answers to questions he hadn't asked aloud - ravenous, hard, deeply."
I’m a big fan of sports romances so I was so thrilled “The Player” didn’t let me down. This story is about two different people from two different worlds coming together. It was hot with plenty of steamy scenes, but the steam didn’t take away from the integrity of the story which I thoroughly enjoyed. I would recommend this story to anyone who loves their hot, cocky alpha hero’s with a soft, sweet empathetic side and a strong independent heroine who stands up for what she believes in. Anyone who is a fan of sports romances should most definitely give this one a go. -
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I enjoyed this book and the attraction that these two characters had. I'm a sucker for a book where the Hero has to actually work for the heroine's affection and that describes Warren and Camila's story perfectly. But the chase didn't last too long and that was the key to making this a great story. It never goes well for me when it takes most of the book for the characters to get together so I'm glad that wasn't the case here.
I did lose interest just a little in the end when the book seemed to start dragging, but it picked back up at the very end and finished on a good note that left me happy with the story. Bottom line, I liked it and would recommend it to my friends. -
4.5 stars
"I can't think when you're this close to me"
"That makes two of us"
I missed Claire's writing and with this book she reached my expectations.This book was so much for me, she did an amazing job! The Player was an intense,fun and sexy story.
"I can't remember the last time I wanted anybody the way I want you."
Warren is a football player and once he saw Camilla he knew that she is different from the other women he knew.Camilla on the other hand because she knows how men like Warren is she tries to stay away from him.But there were attracted to each other and they started spending time together in New York and slowly their friendship becomes something more.They fall in love and it's so beautiful.
"I don't want to want you this much."
"But you do."
"But I do."
Their relationship was intense,sexy and romantic.I loved their bond.
Overal it was an amazing story with beautiful writing,fantastic characters and nice plot.If you are looking for a sport romance then this is perfect ❤❤❤
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Well I'll be honest, I didn't loved it way too much but still I liked it. It wasn't that bad but I was expecting something more because earlier I read Claire's other books (Hearts series were sooooo good) but still I really enjoyed this story too...
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If you have read Claire’s books you know they are emotional and almost always bring you to tears. I saw on Facebook she said this book was not like her other books and I have to agree. The Player is a sexy, sweet sports romance and like her other books, I loved every minute!
Camila, our heroine, is super strong and levelheaded. When push comes to shove she is the first person to stand up and fight for what is right and I loved that about her. We first meet Camila when she learns a developer is them out of their neighborhood so they can “improve” things. Meaning her family, friends and local business owners will be homeless and some jobless. She refuses to take this lying down and is the first to confront them.
That’s where she meets Warren Silva. Warren is a professional soccer player and lives overseas. He is only in town on holiday and while there he is attending to some of his business affairs, that’s right he is one of the investors. Camila is instantly attracted to the fit, tattooed man who looks like he doesn’t belong in the business meeting, but he is the enemy. When Warren begins pursuing Camila she is quick to say no and slow to give in.
I love so much about this story, first I loved that Camila was a rockstar of a heroine. She is was strong, determined and feisty. I absolutely love that she had no clue Warren was the famous War Zone and I loved even more when she discovered it that she didn’t care. If anything his millionaire, playboy status only deterred her more.
I also loved how Warren turned out to be so much more than a douchey player. Sure he had his playboy ways, but once he met his game changer he was all in and ready to fight to prove he was worthy. This story took on a life of it’s own while I was reading it and I completely fell in love with these characters.
The Player has Claire’s usual writing style, it's addictive and heartfelt, but it was also super sexy! I felt like I really understood the world these two were living in and I couldn’t get enough. I love how the story isn’t what I expected and it’s not even your usual sports romance, it’s more. Lastly, this cover, hello! He is exactly who I pictured as War when I was reading the story and that’s just icing on this amazing story!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
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4 ~My New York Girl~ Stars****
(ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
(BR with the lovely Mel)
When I saw the gorgeous cover, and learned that Claire Contreras was writing a new sports theme romance, immediately I thought; I'M IN! and who do I need to torture to get this book???
Be ready ladies and gentleman, because Claire Contreras is back and coming full throttle with this sexy, vibrant and entertaining story. One you cannot miss!
Warren Silva is an international soccer player super star. He has been playing from a very young age and he has proven with time, and a lot of talent, that he is the best on the field. His life has been all about the sport; his one only love, his only focus and purpose has been playing soccer
Warren has been putting off a visit to his native city, New York city, for a long time. Now he has two weeks off, and some pressing family and business matters, so he has no choice, but to return.
When he attends a business meeting with all the tenants from one of the properties he owns, he meets a beautiful woman named Camila. She is smart, independent, and also the first woman to denied his advances and he is completely taken with her.
Warren is used to getting what he wants, so he is prepare to do something he hasn't done in ages, chase a woman to go out with, and chasing he does...
Camilia has been through a lot in her life. A lot of family pain, a lot of heartache have shaped her into a very independent woman, who has a hard time accepting help or relying on other people. She is not necessarily immune to Warren Silva's charms and looks, but she knows that they belong in two different worlds, so she doesn't see the point in going out with him, only to get her heart broken.
Since Warren doesn't take no for an answer, he becomes relentless in breaking Camila down, until she finally agrees to go out with him. Their chemistry is instant and explosive, they can barely keep their hands of each other, but unfortunately for them, when things start getting good between them, the past decides to come back, threatening to destroy everything they have.
If you like sports romances, this one is a goal straight to the heart. Packed with thrill, and a lot of passion, Warren and Camila's story will be one you wont forget.
I've always been a fan of Claire Contreras, her writing style is always beautiful and poignant, and I was happy to see her hispanic roots shine through the pages of this novel, let's just say that was the cherry on top of a very delicious treat for me.
-
4.5 stars!
“Life is short. We’re only here to chase moments. I’d rather make those moments worthwhile.”
Claire Contreras, cheers to you! This book was awesome!
The Player is about Warren, a talented soccer star who plays in the United Kingdom. He comes to New York on vacation and on family business where he meets Camila. Camila is from a family that fell from grace and she took it hard. Now she works for a non profit and can’t afford much, but she works hard and knows what she wants in life.
Warren is used to women falling all over him based on his looks and celebrity status. So when he pursues Camila and is shot down, he’s genuinely surprised, but still eager to go out with her. Camila is unsure of Warren, his fame and his fortune. She doesn’t want to tame the player, she’s tried that before and failed. But there’s something drawing them together, and they can only fight the attraction for so long.
“If you're at the other end of the chase, it would be impossible for me to be disappointed.”
I honestly was hesitant to go into this book, and yet at the same time I was intrigued. I’m not a big fan of the whole hot guy cover trend, and was worried this book was going to be all hot and no plot. That wasn’t the case here, we got a sweet and touching story with some very emotional and poignant moments thrown in.
This book pulled and yanked at all my emotions, at first it was hard to think a player like Warren was serious about Camila, but as the book went on I found myself a believer in change. There’s always something thrilling about seeing the player settle down, and I loved the way Warren fell for Camila. The attraction between the two of them was so charged, you could feel it coming off of the page.
I loved Camila as a heroine, she was quiet yet strong. She had to work hard for what she had and didn’t back down easily. She was also cautious, which I respected. It was so refreshing to read a romance where the heroine doesn’t follow at the heroes feet two seconds after meeting him. And I have mad respect for Camila (and Claire) for that.
If you want to read something explosive, filled with tension and longing, this is the book for you.
“I'd give up my career to chase moments with the right woman.”
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ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
CLAIRE!!!! CLAIRE!!!! CLAIRE!!!! CLAIRE!!!! CLAIRE!!!! Do you hear the chants Claire Contreras? Do you hear the sounds of your loyal fans cheering you on? Well, I’m sure you are hearing the sounds of their chants, screams, and undying love for Warren Silva. But I am here to tell you Claire Contreras that although I might be chanting WAR!!!, I am here singing your praise. Claire..you have truly outdone yourself once again. You did not just deliver a love story but you held us hostage with your words and raw emotions. With your poetic, heart-tugging, beautiful, and visceral prose, you allowed readers to see that love and life are about chasing those moments.
“I wanted hours with her. Sunrises and sunsets buried between her legs. I didn’t need a kiss between us to confirm that. I didn’t need a kiss at all to cement it, really. I wanted her. And I was determined to have her before I went back home.”
The Player is not just your standard sports romance. This book. This story. These characters. The writing. They were a culmination and symphony of a literary masterpiece where heart, love, family, forgiveness, and dreams are laid bare. Yes, this book may have followed a hunky sport celebrity athlete, but Claire Contreras allowed readers to see beyond the glitz and glamor that Warren Silva is just like any ordinary man. A man with vulnerabilities. A man with insecurities. A man with faults. A man who is chasing the moments. And his chase. His moment. His life. It belongs to the one girl that made the chase worthwhile. Camilia.
Warren Silva is a soccer legend. He is the David Beckham of the European Soccer League. He has money. He has fame. He has an endless supply of women begging to be the next arm candy of Warren Silva. But one thing Warren Silva never saw coming was to meet a woman that intrigued him mentally, physically, and emotionally. A woman who didn’t seen Warren Silva, the soccer player but instead Warren Silva, the man whose heart is laid bare.
“Life is short. We’re only here to chase moments. I’d rather make those moments worthwhile.”
Camilia is unlike any woman that Warren had met. She didn’t care that he had money to flaunt. She didn’t even know that he was considered a big deal but it didn’t matter to her because she saw the man who was kind, funny, and deliriously sexy. She saw a man who wanted to treat her like a queen. She didn’t see the player. She saw Warren Silva, the man she had fallen for.
“He was a work of art, from the tattoos to the ridges on his perfect figure. He was perfect, with thick thighs and cut arms, but what called my attention most was what was between his legs. He was thick and hard.”
So can two people from two different worlds fall in love? Can the rich superstar athlete fall in love with a New Yorker from Washington Heights? And the answer to that is simple.. Yes, but in order to understand the deep, visceral, tangible and palpable connection of their love, you must read and experience it through the eyes of Warren and Camilia. They say the eyes are the windows to your soul. And so I urge anyone who is looking for a love story that puts a modern twist on Cinderella and Sex and The City, is that your Prince Charming and Mr. Big might be the person you least expect. So if you are looking for a slow burn romance where the writing was impeccable and heartfelt, then look no further than The Player. Claire Contreras will not only steal your heart but she will also have you chasing the moments. And possibly chanting War Zone!!
Claire Contreras -
I finished this book yesterday and I had mixed feelings about it, so I slept on it without reviewing or rating.
Now, on second thoughts, I still feel the same:
There are good and sweet things in it, but there are also unbelievable, corny and frustrating things in it too.
On top of that, it is sometimes very boring and despite the really good sexual chemistry that is built up slowly, the making love scenes don't live up to the expectations that are built.
In my opinion, this book is really overrated. This was an ordinary sports romance with nothing special in it. It didn’t touch my heart or soul. It felt flat. As it was sometimes boring, I cannot say I had a very good time reading it.
And we were reading this with my buddy Bookylicious, and she was so bored that she decided to DNF it, so I feel good that I am not the only one. Two is better than one :)
There are many things to talk about but I really really do not feel like wasting more of my time on this book, so I will give you one example only – a scene that really made me mad:
I personally believe that the "Warren" portrayed so far wouldn't have acted this way. He was thinking about Camila 24/7. So, I think this was where the writer messed up writing about this character!
And that was where I wanted to DNF it but I didn’t, I read the whole book to see if I would feel better about it.
"I don’t deserve you, but I need you."
Well, I really believed that he loved her and made my peace with him in the end. He did some really over the top and corny acts to be forgiven for the big lie he told her when they first met. These acts were over the top but also kind of sweet and romantic in a way... But still his transformation didn't feel %100 convincing and I cannot put the blame on the hero, "Warren", but the writer who didn't make a good job of it in my opinion.
Also, the fact that Camila's father's situation was not explained clearly left me with an uneasy feeling.
So, all in all, this was an OK read for me. I feel like something between 3 and 3,5 but not 4 definitely...
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3.5 – 4 Stars
Amazon ➺
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The Player captured my attention with its luscious cover and enticing blurb. I knew this had to be my first Claire Contreras novel and I dived in with great anticipation soaking up the words and engaging with the story.
Warren is one of the most successful football players in the world, playing in the British Football league and endorsement modelling, being a Brit myself I hugely appreciated the nuances pertaining to this aspect and found the narrative captured the essence of this theme perfectly. I do wish that the author had gone the whole way and actually made the character British, rather than an American living in the UK, a small thing but I felt the author played it safe here and could have made a bigger impact with the characterisation of Warren in this area. Having said that the hero with his enigmatic charm, his confidence, and general gorgeousness makes him super easy to fall in love with. Warren is a player and Camila a beautiful girl who makes him work for her attention. I found their developing relationship to be very open and honest throughout the entire story arc, a fact that I found quite refreshing and made for a straight forward story with easy-on-the-heart intrigue and predictability.
The Player is written in the first person narrative and from the alternating perspective of the hero and heroine ensuring readers are given a complete understanding of the character’s thoughts and feelings in the context of the prose. If I’m completely honest, as the story progressed, I found Camila to be somewhat irksome, can’t quite put my finger on why, perhaps I found her lacking in personality and I’m not sure if that’s because Warren shone so brightly for me or if I found her a little flat. Something was missing from the story, that essence that makes something epic and I think it was maybe my connection to the heroine and the low level angst I experienced.
War is undoubtedly the star of this novel. I totally loved his vulnerability and honesty about exactly what he wants from the heroine and his life adding to the endearing sweet quality of this Contemporary Romance. A sexy story that’s capturing the hearts of legions of ROMANCE READERS.
Advance copy provided for my honest review thoughts
★ Graphic created by me with a stock photo I purchased from deposit photos ★ -
4.5 'Chasing moments' Stars!
I had extreme coverlust for this novel and I am so glad I decided to read this book. My first by Claire Contreras and her first take on Sports Romance, I have to say The Player will definitely not be my last read of anything by her, I LOVED IT!
If I have time, I will write a longer review, I am just writing this short text to say I totally recommend The Player if you are in the mood for a super-hot sportsman ;) -
3.5 "Chasing Moments" Stars
A sexy, hot playboy soccer player meets a girl who has no idea who he is and decides I have to get to know her!! This story is sweet, sassy and a little angsty.
Warren Silvia is a bad boy, fun loving, sexy hunk of a soccer player. Women want him and men want to be him. When he comes home to NY from Manchester his life changes in so many ways. Camila Avila is spunky, sassy and not looking for a man. She has a hard life and definitely doesn't see how a man like Warren Silvia could ever want a girl like her. When these two collide, sparks fly. It's a sweet chase. Warren wants Camila and she knows he's bad news. But through persistent charm.......Warren wedges himself in Camila's life and they explore their feelings, their past and their families. They begin as friends and eventually become lovers. Of course there is some angst towards the end but it eventually gets resolved.
I found this story to be sweet and charming. It was rather predictable but I enjoyed the journey. Sometimes you just need a fluffy read, one that makes you smile and believe in HEAs.
*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review* -
4 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
(BR with Dee)
Camila Avila is a beautiful Dominican woman living in Washington Heights, New York. There was a time when she attended private school & lived a good life. After her family loses it all, she struggles to make ends meet on her own.
Camila is trying to make a future for herself, but when a company wants to tear down the apartment complex she lives in to build a strip mall, she is furious. This normally quiet woman, decides to head to a meeting to give the shareholders responsible for her fate a piece of her mind.
Camila meets Warren Silva. Warren is a pro European soccer star. He's one of the most successful players in the world. After growing up in Manhattan to a wealthy family Warren moved to Spain to play football when he was fourteen. He's been gone over seventeen years & hardly looked back. Needing to deal with some family business, Warren takes a couple weeks vacation & heads home to New York. While in town he needs to deal with some investments of his. While attending a shareholder meeting he crosses paths with a gorgeous woman named Camila Avila. He is intrigued with her & wants to know more about her.
Warren pursues Camila & decides he wants her. Camila thinks he's stunning to look at, but has no clue who "The War Zone" is. He has a reputation with the ladies & grew up privileged. Camila just sees him as one of the people trying to take away her home & thinks he's just some rich guy. They come from different worlds, & she's not all that interested. Warren is persistent & really goes after Camila hard. He's charming & hot as hell. She eventually agrees to go out with him.
-There was something about her presence that made me feel I was where I was supposed to be.
-I knew she wanted me just as badly as I wanted her.
-"I can't remember the last time I wanted anybody the way I want you. If ever."
-"I'm physically aching for you, Camila."
-She was my game changer.
War is relentless on and off the field & eventually gets what he wants, which is Camila. He went from wanting her in his bed, to wanting so much more. He's crazy about her & suddenly grows quite attached. His life is all about football & appearances. When they started out they knew it would be temporary. That goodbye was inevitable since they live in different countries. Can they make it work & find a way to be together?
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Maybe I've been reading the wrong type of books but lately every romance books I've been reading have been really boring. I'm trying to dive into all the hottest new books that people have been raving about but they've all been really disappointing. :/
I had such high hopes for The Player considering how I was such a huge fan of Claire's Hearts series but her recent books have been really disappointing. I couldn't even get through Elastic Hearts because it turned into just another cliche romance book. Where was the heart-wrench? The angst? The heartfelt romance? It was a major letdown because the other two books were absolutely amazing and it wasn't the way I wanted to end the series. But I had high hopes for Claire's future books because after Kaleidoscope Hearts and Paper Hearts, Claire has sealed her place on my favorite romance authors list.
The main problem I had with this book was how dull the characters were. Claire's characters were always lovable. When it came to Camila and Warren, they weren't exactly despicable or anything. They were just... meh. Nothing special going on with them at all. I couldn't really connect with Camila, I felt she was the most boring one of all. And if your main character comes off as dull, there's not much else that can save the rating of the book. As for Warren, I guess I couldn't complain. He was better than Camila but not by much. He's supposedly hotter and better than Oliver and Jensen but honestly he doesn't even come close. He's supposed to be "The Player" but for an alpha male, he was downright mediocre. An athlete who sleeps with many women. Groundbreaking.
Together they just made one boring couple. The steamy scenes weren't even steamy. The first time they actually had sex was a major letdown considering how Camila has been rejecting Warren in the beginning. You'd think that once he finally gets in her pants we'd get this super hot sex scene but nope. We just sort of glide over it. Definitely nothing compared to the steamy scenes and the connection we saw between Elle/Oliver and Mia/Jensen. I never really felt the spark between Camila and Warren. Come on Claire what is going? She doesn't even seem like the same author that I came to love. I don't have very many favorite romance authors and it's utterly disappointing not being able to like her latest books.
The book did get a little better 70% through but it didn't really make up majority of the boring in the book. I felt like the drama between them was blown out of proportion and Warren's big secret wasn't really surprising. On top of that, I never really understood why Camila despised the Belmontes. I know that a big part of it had to do with her father but we never even really find out what happened. It was very vague so I honestly didn't feel any sympathy towards her father or hatred towards Javier Belmonte. So therefore the whole drama that occurs later on in the book just made me want to roll my eyes.
As much as I really wanted to like this, I'm disappointed once again in Claire Contreras. Claire is such an outstanding author. She can definitely write a book leagues better than this. Better than Elastic Hearts. I'm still going to read her books regardless because she still remains to be one of my favorite romance authors but The Player and Elastic Hearts do nothing to showcase Claire's talents for writing a great romance book that even a picky romance reader like me could come to love. -
With that prologue I was super excited to start this book, knowing it was going to be a good one! Especially after all the hype I have been reading!
Please don't hate me but...I really didn't like this book because of Camilla! I basically gave it 3 stars for Warren! There wasn't really anything special or different for me in this story that would make me want to read this book again. I felt the first half dragged, then it got a little interesting and then I just got really mad at Camilla the whole ending of the book to where I skimmed the rest and didn't want to even finish it!
Slight Spoilers and Angry Rant ahead!
I'm sorry but I really could not bring myself to like Camilla! At all! I really did try but I just couldn't!! The whole first half of the book I felt like I was about to throw my phone if I read one more time about how she blushed and looked away!!!! If Warren complimented her....she blushed and looked away! If he said innuendos....she blushed and looked away! If he asked her out...she blushed and looked away! If he looked at her a certain way....she blushed and looked away!!!! If he was just standing there not even looking at her....she blushed and looked away!! Ok, so maybe the last one I was being a bit dramatic but still!!!!!!! If I had to read that she responded that way one more time.....don't even get me started!!! Then we get to a certain point where Warren's secret was revealed and I'm like....ooooh shoot I wasn't expecting that one...this is about to finally get good! Nope! Grrrrr!! I just got even more pissed off because of how dramatic Camilla reacted and didn't even give him a chance to explain himself! She just cut him off and wouldn't forgive him. Not to mention started hanging with another guy right after! Even her sister said “I completely understand why you’re mad at Warren. Trust me, I get it. He lied. He knew about Dad and how you feel about Belmonte, and he kept that from you, but you would’ve never given him a chance if he’d have told you from the get-go. You would have blown him off and wouldn’t have gotten to know him. Can you really blame the guy?” Thank you Vanessa, thank you! And Camilla responds, "Yes. I can.” This just makes me like her even less. Then we get to the point where Warren gives up his passion and life of soccer "football" for her because she doesn't want to leave her home...which btw she doesn't even seem happy there. In the book Warren keeps telling Camilla that he doesn't deserve her, I think they got it backwards...she never deserved him! I know people won't be happy with my review but maybe it's just my personal taste of heroines! Not to mention PMS! lol! But hey, maybe you will like this one! You should still give it a try and not just take my word for it! #ineedfiestyheroines #noblushing #ineedlotsofbanter -
***** 5 STARS *****
This is by far one of the best love stories
The Player is a story that takes you on a journey of two people who truly connect with each other.
Camila is a strong women who doesn't even realize her own strength. She is passionate about her family, community, and work. She is selfless and brave.
Warren is more humble than he realizes yet very comfortable with himself. He's one of the world's highest paid football stars living in the UK.
You can feel the chemistry from this two from the beginning to the middle until the end. HOT!!!
I stayed up until 3am reading "just one more chapter" that turned into the ENTIRE book!!! I enjoyed their journey through life.
This is a MUST READ
Thanks to
Claire Contreras for the amazing read.
I've read. And can we talk about this cover.....Yessssssssssssss
Enough said, RIGHT? -
3 ⭐️
Did I like this? - No, I did not.
Do I think it’s awful? - No, I do not.
What’s my main issue with it? - Elements of the story didn’t make sense. Some of the characters actions again, didn’t make sense. I didn’t feel the connection between the MC’s and I did not think their love made sense or that it would last. The male character was awful in my opinion, and he didn’t have many good qualities to balance out the bad.
Some things that didn’t make sense:
• Warren’s attitude towards his father. His father wasn’t abusive or anything of the sort, and we were never really told what his issue was with him. If I was to guess, he was a spoiled little shit (he was 14), he thought he knows best and he wanted to do whatever the heck he desires, therefore he went to Europe to train in order to be a footballer. If you ask me, his father and mother were awesome in the fact that they let him pursue his dream at such a young age. And what does he do after? He somehow comes up with a grudge against his father that wasn’t really explained, and he doesn’t return to NY because of it. His mom, his brother and even his father loved him, you could tell. They were protective of him and tolerant of his freaking stupid antics. So I don’t get it. Why did he stay away? He was too old for temper tantrums.
I get that the author wanted to create a conflict to somehow explain why he didn’t frequent NY and why he was a douche, but honestly the whole thing only left me more confused, and it made Warren look like the biggest manchild known to man.
This is a mean thing to say but throughout the story, I felt like the author couldn’t really piece together good motives for our characters and she kept throwing bad curveballs that not only did nothing for the storyline but it made it worse. She ruined the flow with stupid remarks that made no sense for the characters intentions or the overall plot.
• Warren was promiscuous for no reason other than he liked it. He was selfish, snobbish, materialistic, and an egomaniac (he was hurt that Elena cheated because he couldn’t believe she cheated on him, like he’s a god or something - he wasn’t hurt she didn’t love him, it was his ego that took a hit not his heart). The man just didn’t have any redeeming qualities.
• The love story, I don’t know how to put this, if I look at it objectively the author took all the right steps to ensure there is a progression and a connection I suppose. But I didn’t feel it. It felt more like Warren saw a shiny, pretty, unattainable toy and he wanted it. Obsessively so.
He does tend to obsess over the things he has or can get, and he wanted her body then her love and devotion, and he got it- not the most romantic thing if you ask me.
• As for Cami, I don’t know what she fell for really? Aside from being good looking, rich and not taking no for an answer the guy didn’t have much going for him. Also she went to visit him in the UK and he forgot they were supposed to go to dinner. She waited for him all dolled up, he never came. She fell asleep. When she woke he was home playing ball on his home court, guess what he said? He forgot she was in England! He forgot about her. But how?? We were constantly being told how much he missed her and he was obsessed with her coming over and she was there for 2 days and he already forgot about her?!? Her whole trip, he acted like it was her duty to be his arm candy while he goes on with life. He took no time out of his schedule to give her attention!
• Warren reminds me of a guy who is all talk. Is sweet and sugary and says the right things. He apologises when he says or does the wrong thing by mistake(or habit) but then he’s also the one to get a blow job in the bathroom provided by the first pretty girl who make goggly eyes at him. (Now, I’m not saying there’s cheating in this book, there isn’t. It’s just that I wouldn’t trust him as far as I could throw him. We are only told he is nice and reformed, but that’s not enough, he gives me major sleazy vibes.) -
Can we all just take a moment to drool over that cover?
I don’t think I’ve come across a book from Claire Contreras that I haven’t thoroughly enjoyed, but there was something about The Player that was just sexy.
Warren Silva is at the top of his career. He’s a big deal in the soccer world (I know, I know they call it football...) and he’s returning to New York to tend to some family matters and business, taking a much overdue vacation.
Enter Camila, the stunning, money-challenged woman who finds herself face to face with Warren, while arguing about the demolishing of her apartment for his latest business venture. Warren is instantly smitten. But chasing a woman isn’t something this player is known for. Women typically just throw themselves at his feet.
But Warren is dead set on wooing this woman, even if it means slumming it a bit through the streets of NY.
I adored this book. From the way it was written, a prologue that had you on the edge of your seat from the moment you started, throughout all the sweet moments when Warren put love before fame and all the way to the sexy times once Camila gives in.
This was a gripping romance that had all the elements that readers die for. Another hit from Contreras, another five star read and another book boyfriend to add to the collection! Oh, and did I mention the cover? Jesus. I can’t even.
-
Oh man, I would love to say that I loved every single thing about this book but I didn't. The entire time I felt like something was missing but I was liking it for the most part until about 90%, Camila's hard to get game got old and her refusal to compromise put me off, so did the "grand gesture".
This is still an author that I adore and I will still buy and promote her books every single time.
So, that's all I'm going to say about this one. -
Pre-order available:
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Amazon ➺ Ebook link will be available ON October 10th.
Paperbacks:
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http://bit.ly/BNPAPERBACK -
2.5 -
Stars
Our heroine is Camila, aka Peach, aka Rocky, aka whatever other nicknames they decide to add. She is poor and not looking for a relationship.
Warren is a rich soccer player who has had his heart broken. But then he sees Camila and has to have her....
She's nothing like any other girl he's met/screwed/dated.
No, she's not like Elena, even though they are/were both poor.
She would never hurt him like Elena did. She is a game changer.
And he proceeds to turn into a puss b/c he's so head over heels for Camila.
Because you know, she's special.
She's sooooooo special and perfect that you know he forgot she was even at his house visiting him....
But he left out that one thing that will make her hate his guts.
Yeah this whole book I'm like
Anyways you might like it...I didn't care for it...
