Reviews

Play By The Rules by Violet Paine

traversingfiction's review

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5.0

This is a university (not college, because we're British) bully romance.
Not only does it have a second chance trope but it also has what I'm going to call frenemies-to-lovers.

Theo is a dark soul; a possessive, controlling alpha hole with a burning passion.

Fallon would be classed as a plus size FMC as she is referenced as being a British size 16; lots of plus size FMC have time focusing on their weight/shape/size but not Fallon - she has gorgeous self-confidence and owns every curve.

I thought I had a good grasp on where the plot was going, but at about 85%, holy plot twist Batman! This book took a massive blind corner on what had previously been just a slightly winding road, brilliant set-up for book 2 but infuriating to be left hanging waiting for the next instalment!

gemmaisaiahs's review

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dnf 40%

k_huskic's review

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4.0

4.5 stars

This was a great debut novel. The story pulled me in from the first chapter and I didn't want to stop until I was done. I wish there was more!

I loved Fallon and Theodore's interactions, and the whole love/hate push/pull of their relationship. They were both tough in their own way, and I enjoyed it immensely when Fallon stood up for herself.

The supporting characters were great, also. I'd love more of a glimpse into their lives.

Can't wait to read more from this author!

snowowl's review

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2.0

this book was overhyped on tiktok. imo its not as good as some of the other romances i read.

If there’s one thing you can say about Betty, she’s efficient. When she gets an idea in her mind, she’ll go balls to the wallto make sure it comes to fruition.

no_shelfies's review

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5.0

I didnt find out this was a debut until after reading it, and its mind-boggling. From the first page I. Was. Hooked! I love a bully romance and a bad boy. And Teddy - he wanted to be hated! The prologue does a perfect job of showing us Teddy & Fallon, their relationship and setting the tone going forward..

‘Did you miss me baby?’

EYAM Green Academy, Theodore is already a student there & Fallon is starting her first year. Hes cruel, giving her unfair Rules to abide by otherwise she will be punished. (And the punishments - id break all the rules

tanya_ac's review

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5.0

“look at me,” he tells me, pressing his forehead against mine. i lift my eyes, locking on his. “you and me? this is it. you are the endgame. my endgame.”

betsyutk's review

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3.0

It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger. But the story is not over either. It was good, better than other books of this genre that I’ve read. But there was waaaay to much baggage between the main characters for it to be wrapped up at 88%—and wrapped up quickly I might add.

I don’t not recommend the book, but maybe wait until all books in the series are out?

cassie_fairbanks's review

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4.0

Spice: 5/5
Triggers: Sexual Assault, Dub-Con, Somnophilia, Domestic Abuse, Violence, Drugs, Hypoxyphilia

“Beam me up, Scotty, because I am f

thejasminemaria's review

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dark tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

Teddy Teddy Teddy! My man. I loved this character so much. He was overprotective, and possessive and he truly made me fall in love with him. Also the twist at the end with Caroline (Casper’s mom). I got a bad vibe from her mom the moment she came into the book!

Spice was there but not as much as I would want. I hope their story continues!

atouchofbooknerd's review

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5.0


Spice Level