I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This is Stevie and Marty's story and its about a second chance at love after some terrible trauma (Stevie) and the trauma of a broken up marriage (Marty). Both have to restart their lives and I enjoyed hearing their story and seeing how trauma can affect pretty much everything.

If you have been reading this series, you know that Stevie almost died and lost not only a pregnancy but also any plans for future pregnancies. It devastated her because she always wanted kids. It was at the hands of her jerk of her ex and in this story we get to see what happens to him which I really, really loved.

Meanwhile Marty has been married for years to his wife, yes, he is still married in this book, but they are in the process of divorcing. He has three kids. Great kids and they are so cute, they really enhanced this story so much. You also know his wife cheated and it's a very messy thing because of custody.

These two who have been hurt in the worst ways end up becoming friends as they attend the multitude of weddings as their friends get hitched. Which I also loved. I love weddings and these two build a nice friendship. They are both so hurt by their pasts that they really need that time. I love that this story was slower, and it built a steady foundation for their relationship.

And they slowly start dating. I also really enjoyed those scenes because I love watching a normal couple date. It's fun, flirty and I love when authors let their couples start slowly with dates. Even if at first it's more platonic than romantic. I love that this was a slow burn as the characters slowly heal from their pasts.

A lot happen in this book, and I love that the author let the characters take their time. I have really looked forward to Stevie's story and I am so in love with this story. Its romantic and heart breaking but also beautiful.

Play Dirty is Stevie and Marty’s emotional journey and it’s book five in the L.A. Phantoms Series. I was drawn into this emotional and entertaining story from the first chapter and there was no putting down until the final word was read. Two people fighting for different things but both needing to be strong, he is fighting for custody of his kids and she is fighting for her reputation after her ex tried to kill her. Marty is a NHL player but deep down he is just a family man who wants the best for his kids so can he fit in the world of a supermodel and what happens when lines get crossed….. I loved everything about this book from the characters to the heartbreaking tears and everything in between. I swooned, I smiled and I shed a tear as I cheered this couple on. A beautifully written love story with characters I fell hard and fast for and children who at times stole the show as well as my heart and let’s not forget the camaraderie this team and their partners share.