Before we get started— can we please swoon over that cover art!? It's so beautiful!

I had a lovely time reading Playing for Keeps. What I took most away from it was how the story allowed its characters to grow. Our leads, Piper and Adam, never stay static. They are well developed, multi-faceted, relatable characters. They are flawed, they are prone to mistakes. But, above all: they learn. They may not always have the right answers, they may become their own biggest hurdle, but eventually, they try, they jump the hurdles or find another way around. I honestly did not care for Adam at the start of the book, and I felt increasingly frustrated by Piper’s lack of action in holding him accountable for certain misbehavior. However, by journey’s end I looked back with newfound realization: this story allowed their characters to evolve. To move forward.

I deeply appreciated Bree Hayden allowing college-aged young adults to be just as they are. A bit messy, a bit imperfect, a bit wrong at times. Wholly their age! I love when characters possess relatable flaws and vulnerabilities, not to fix them but to simply acknowledge them. To put a mirror in front of us and say, we see you. I left this one with much respect and appreciation for both leads.

This was a pretty fun read! I can’t say its overall narrative is one quite up my alley, but there is absolutely an audience who will love it— and I hope it’s you reading this! If the synopsis appeals to you, be sure to check this one out!

Thank you so kindly to Bree Hayden for this complimentary arc. I leave this honest review voluntarily. 3.5✨