Book Review: Played

Played (Hooked #2)

By: Liz Fichera

Published By: Harlequin Teen

Publication Date: May 27, 2014

Page Count: 352

Buy it at Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Source: ARC Kindly Provided by Publisher via NetGalley

Audience: Young Adult - Contemporary

Review of Book #1: Hooked

Hooked was one of my favorite reads of 2013 so I have been anxiously awaiting the release of Played. Fred and Ryan do make appearances throughout this one, but it is not a direct sequel to the first novel. Played focuses on Ryan's younger sister, Riley, and Fred's friend, Sam. These two are thrown together on a school trip. Sam isn't excited about stuck with Riley since he can't see past her last name; her brother ruined his chances with Fred. That isn't something Sam can easily get over. Riley isn't happy to be in the same group as Sam either. She thinks he's grumpy and complicated, but an accident forces the two to work together and get past their prejudices and judgments. The time they spend together battling the elements allows these two to see one another in a different light and they begin an unlikely friendship.

I loved Sam. He is such a strong guy and his Native culture made him more intriguing. Sam is also extremely loyal and goal oriented. One thing about Sam that was frustrating was his stubbornness. He didn't always see others clearly and he often refused help. I was glad to see him break down some of his barriers as the story unfolded. Sam was one of my favorites in the first novel so I was excited to spend more time with him.

I enjoyed Riley as well, but not as much as Sam. I felt sorry for Riley throughout the majority of the novel. She only wanted someone to notice her, but so many people overlooked her. This caused her to make some very stupid decisions. I was glad to see her grow up a lot over the progression of the story.

I loved Played as much as I loved Hooked. Sam and Riley's relationship certainly gives Fred and Ryan a run for their money. I also really enjoy the Romeo and Juliet aspects and the Native influences.

One Last Gripe: I was irked by Riley's parents in the beginning. You would think they would have learned their lesson after all of Ryan's escapades.

My Favorite Thing About This Book: The last few chapters - sigh

First Sentence: Being the good daughter wasn't easy.

Favorite Character: Sam

Least Favorite Character: Jay

Summary:

This Game Is Getting All Too Real

He said: I like to keep under the radar and mostly hang out with my friends from the rez. But when I saved Riley Berenger from falling off a mountain, that rich suburban princess decided to try to save me. 

She said: If I can help Sam Tracy win the heart of the girl he can't get over, I'll pay him back for helping me. I promised him I would, no matter what it takes.