Book Review: “Play Me” by Adriana Lock
Oh, where do I even begin? If you follow me on social media, you probably know I’ve officially entered my rugby sports romance era, and Play Me has cemented my new obsession! Adriana Lock has given us exactly what we didn’t know we needed—a grumpy rugby player with a broken past, bursting with the kind of energy that makes you pray for a happily ever after. I was already captivated by the premise of enemies-to-lovers, but Gray and Astrid took my excitement to a whole new level.
At the heart of Play Me are two beautifully flawed characters, Astrid and Gray, who are as different as night and day yet equally stubborn. Gray, the bad boy of rugby, needs a serious image overhaul, and who better to manage that than Astrid? She’s fiercely loyal to her boss and willing to take on the dangerous job of keeping the rogue rugby player in line, despite their explosive first meeting that leaves her hating him. Their back-and-forth banter is like watching a firework show—each spark igniting more tension and desire.
Lock’s writing style flows with a sharp wit that makes you chuckle one moment and swoon the next. The pacing is spot-on; we speed through the playful jabs right into an emotional crescendo that made me wish I had a box of tissues handy! The tension between Gray and Astrid is palpable, with their hate simmering just beneath the surface and blissfully evolving into something deeper. Their layers peel back, revealing two individuals with past traumas that shape how they interact with the world. Astrid’s sunny disposition hides her struggle, while Gray’s arrogance masks his vulnerability—a compelling duality that kept me invested in their journey.
One of the standout moments is when Gray begins to dismantle Astrid’s walls. Their raw, honest conversations about pain and loss were beautifully depicted and made me reflect on how we all carry our pasts differently. I found myself cheering for them as they navigated their relationship, wanting nothing more than for them to find solace in each other’s arms.
And let’s talk about the spice! The chemistry between Gray and Astrid is electric. Their physical moments are fabulous—the intimacy is so palpable it practically leaps off the page. The clever banter, alongside those deliciously intense scenes, left me both breathless and envious of Astrid’s luck.
One of my favorite features of Lock’s storytelling is her knack for cultivating vibrant friend groups. Astrid’s chat with her girlfriends had me in stitches and felt so relatable. It’s these small nuances that add depth to her characters, creating a world I couldn’t wait to immerse myself in.
In conclusion, Play Me is a delightful standalone, though I highly recommend reading Adriana Lock’s previous works for a richer experience. If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers, workplace romance, and characters that tug at your heartstrings, you will absolutely adore this book. For me, this was more than just a story; it was a journey through pain, laughter, and—yes—a sizzling romance that left me wanting more. Thank you, Adriana Lock, for crafting such a phenomenal read—it has truly impacted my heart! 🏉❤️
If you’re ready for a world where rugby meets romance, grab your copy of Play Me. You won’t regret it!