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Denver Mountain Lions #3
Sideline Infraction
What happens when I find the right guy at exactly the wrong time? I’m Alex Young. Star quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions. Captain of the team. Son. Brother. Teammate. And I’m gay. No one can know. My secret could destroy everything. I lock myself up in the closet and throw away the key. It’s better this way. I can focus on football and being the best quarterback I can be. Until him. With that first look, I’m a goner. I’ve never met anyone like him. With each passing day, he’s breaking down my walls that I’ve worked so hard to build. But what if someone finds out? What if I’m outed to the world and cut from the team I love? I can’t risk it. But when Carter kisses me like that? I can’t resist. I am in so much trouble.
280 pages, Paperback
First published October 6, 2022
58 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Emily Silver
49 books610 followersAfter winning a Young Author’s Award in second grade, Emily Silver was destined to be a writer. She loves writing strong heroines and the swoony men who fall for them.
A lover of all things romance, Emily started writing books set in her favorite places around the world. As an avid traveler, she’s been to all seven continents and sailed around the globe.
When she’s not writing, Emily can be found sipping cocktails on her porch, reading all the romance she can get her hands on and planning her next big adventure!
Find her on social media to stay up to date on all her adventures and upcoming releases!
A lover of all things romance, Emily started writing books set in her favorite places around the world. As an avid traveler, she’s been to all seven continents and sailed around the globe.
When she’s not writing, Emily can be found sipping cocktails on her porch, reading all the romance she can get her hands on and planning her next big adventure!
Find her on social media to stay up to date on all her adventures and upcoming releases!
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June 28, 2023
Sideline Infraction is the third book in the Denver Mountain Lions series by Emily Silver. This is a MM sports romance that can be read as a complete stand alone. I have not read any of the other books in this series and was perfectly fine. I’ve had this book on my to read list for awhile now and FINALLY got to it and I’m so glad I did because I loved it so much!
Alex Young is the star quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions. If there is one thing in his life that he is sure of it is that he loves football. He loves his team, loves to play, loves everything about it. The other thing Alex has always been sure of is that he’s gay. The only people that know are his parents and brother. Alex is afraid of what might happen if anyone else found out. He could lose his job, lose his livelihood. So he stays in the closet. But it’s been getting more and more difficult as he watches his friends find true love. Maybe someday when he retires he will be lucky enough to fall in love.
Carter Brooks is Alex’s coach’s son. He’s an AP Statistics high school teacher. He has been out as a gay man since high school and has no interest whatsoever in athletes. Until he and Alex meet. This is my favorite kind of romance by the way, when two strangers meet and the sparks are flying. That’s exactly what happened.
You would think these two would have nothing in common but they actually do. They are perfect together. But the timing is all wrong for Alex. He can’t come out. And Carter doesn’t realize he’s in the closet. What will happen when he finds out?
I fell so in love with these two and couldn’t put this book down. They were so perfect together but of course, they will have some struggles to overcome in order to find their HEA. There is a little bonus chapter you can download at the end which was completely adorable. THEN I was told that they make an appearance in the book, Slide Tackle by Claire Hastings. Which I have on stand-by ready to read soon. I can’t wait to read it. I also want to mention that I loved some of the side characters as well, Alex’s coach was amazing, Alex’s brother and Carter’s sister as well. Both of these men had strong support systems. All they had to do was give in and let love win. I hope you love these two as much as I did.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Alex Young is the star quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions. If there is one thing in his life that he is sure of it is that he loves football. He loves his team, loves to play, loves everything about it. The other thing Alex has always been sure of is that he’s gay. The only people that know are his parents and brother. Alex is afraid of what might happen if anyone else found out. He could lose his job, lose his livelihood. So he stays in the closet. But it’s been getting more and more difficult as he watches his friends find true love. Maybe someday when he retires he will be lucky enough to fall in love.
Carter Brooks is Alex’s coach’s son. He’s an AP Statistics high school teacher. He has been out as a gay man since high school and has no interest whatsoever in athletes. Until he and Alex meet. This is my favorite kind of romance by the way, when two strangers meet and the sparks are flying. That’s exactly what happened.
You would think these two would have nothing in common but they actually do. They are perfect together. But the timing is all wrong for Alex. He can’t come out. And Carter doesn’t realize he’s in the closet. What will happen when he finds out?
I fell so in love with these two and couldn’t put this book down. They were so perfect together but of course, they will have some struggles to overcome in order to find their HEA. There is a little bonus chapter you can download at the end which was completely adorable. THEN I was told that they make an appearance in the book, Slide Tackle by Claire Hastings. Which I have on stand-by ready to read soon. I can’t wait to read it. I also want to mention that I loved some of the side characters as well, Alex’s coach was amazing, Alex’s brother and Carter’s sister as well. Both of these men had strong support systems. All they had to do was give in and let love win. I hope you love these two as much as I did.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
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October 25, 2022DNF @ 34%
Closeted Quarterback meets the coach’s son and it’s love at first sight.
A little confusing because first person narrative would be followed with the opposite characters dialogue or dialogue would come out of nowhere with no context to who says it. So the majority of what I read I would have no clue who was actually talking and kept having to reread scenes.
For instance: A soft laugh hits me. “I think it’s cute you think you can try and distract me. You can trust me, Carter.”
We are in MC 1 POV with A soft laugh hits me. but it is MC2 dialogue.
Another example: “We should probably move this to somewhere that is a little more conducive to what we want to do.” Carter tips his head to the side, my lips now moving down his neck.
There is no way of telling which character says this.
Dropped it at the first sex scene since the dialogue read as MF romance
Closeted Quarterback meets the coach’s son and it’s love at first sight.
A little confusing because first person narrative would be followed with the opposite characters dialogue or dialogue would come out of nowhere with no context to who says it. So the majority of what I read I would have no clue who was actually talking and kept having to reread scenes.
For instance: A soft laugh hits me. “I think it’s cute you think you can try and distract me. You can trust me, Carter.”
We are in MC 1 POV with A soft laugh hits me. but it is MC2 dialogue.
Another example: “We should probably move this to somewhere that is a little more conducive to what we want to do.” Carter tips his head to the side, my lips now moving down his neck.
There is no way of telling which character says this.
Dropped it at the first sex scene since the dialogue read as MF romance
November 27, 2024
This was cute, but ultimately it was only okay and completely forgettable. I don't remember the MCs names and I just finished it a few days ago 🙃 The author was new to me, but I gave it a chance because the audiobook was on Hoopla. My expectations weren't too high because this was an MM book in an MF series from an author that mainly writes MF. It definitely had that feel to it, but it was better than some others I've read that fit into that category.
I probably won't seek out anything else written by this author for the above mentioned reasons, but at least this one was good enough in audiobook form to pass the time while I was cleaning the house 😅
I probably won't seek out anything else written by this author for the above mentioned reasons, but at least this one was good enough in audiobook form to pass the time while I was cleaning the house 😅
October 13, 2022
Book three in the Mountain Lions series can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. This male/male romance is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
Alex is the star quarterback for the NFL football team. Carter is a high school math teacher who brings his students to meet the team as a practical application of statistics in real life. The sparks fly instantly. The only problem: Alex is still in the closet and has no intention of coming out while he is still playing ball.
I loved Carter’s character. He is confident in himself. He knows what he wants in his life. He treats Alex so very well. They are incredibly sweet as they settle into a relationship with each other. Alex is a soft-hearted nerd underneath his determined exterior. He falls fast for Carter. I adore their bedroom dynamics: there is plenty of heat between these two as well as a whole lot of tender emotion. Their black moment is heart breaking. Alex must make some choices that will affect his life forever. I appreciated how difficult those decisions were for him to make as the author does an excellent job of conveying the unknowns he faces as he makes the tough choices.
There are some funny moments in the book that made me laugh out loud. I adore the friendships/brotherhood of the guys on the team. I loved seeing Jackson and Colin farther into their relationships with Tenley and Peyton. I really appreciated the role the Coach plays in this story and how he is with Alex. I also loved how Carter’s family and Alex’s brother offer valuable support and prodding to each of them. There is also a wonderful cameo of Wes and Finn from Off the Deep End that I absolutely adored. This was a swoony read full of passion and deep feelings. It left me with a huge smile on my face and a happy heart.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
Alex is the star quarterback for the NFL football team. Carter is a high school math teacher who brings his students to meet the team as a practical application of statistics in real life. The sparks fly instantly. The only problem: Alex is still in the closet and has no intention of coming out while he is still playing ball.
I loved Carter’s character. He is confident in himself. He knows what he wants in his life. He treats Alex so very well. They are incredibly sweet as they settle into a relationship with each other. Alex is a soft-hearted nerd underneath his determined exterior. He falls fast for Carter. I adore their bedroom dynamics: there is plenty of heat between these two as well as a whole lot of tender emotion. Their black moment is heart breaking. Alex must make some choices that will affect his life forever. I appreciated how difficult those decisions were for him to make as the author does an excellent job of conveying the unknowns he faces as he makes the tough choices.
There are some funny moments in the book that made me laugh out loud. I adore the friendships/brotherhood of the guys on the team. I loved seeing Jackson and Colin farther into their relationships with Tenley and Peyton. I really appreciated the role the Coach plays in this story and how he is with Alex. I also loved how Carter’s family and Alex’s brother offer valuable support and prodding to each of them. There is also a wonderful cameo of Wes and Finn from Off the Deep End that I absolutely adored. This was a swoony read full of passion and deep feelings. It left me with a huge smile on my face and a happy heart.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
October 27, 2022
This was my first book from the author and I am not impressed. I haven't read any of the other MF books in the series and from what I gathered hetero relationships might be more of the author's strength.
The book is about a closeted football quarterback, Alex and his coach's son, Carter who steals his heart and makes him reconsider his self-imposed recluse life.
It is quite frankly, a standard trope but it was kind of butchered in this book. The most problematic point was actually the main angst topic of the book so it wasn't something I could look past.
Alex's unwillingness to come out and his closeted status was treated absolutely disgustingly.
I am a firm believer that everyone has a right to come out or not come out on their own terms. No one has the right to make them feel bad about not sharing this part of their identity.
And in this book? Both the love interest and several of the teammates have voiced their disappointment of Alex "lying" to them making hime feel bad about himself and feeling he's done something wrong.
I almost put the book down when this happened the first time but I wanted to see if this was a one off in the story... unfortunately it wasn't. Several people, except from two very nice individuals, made Alex's coming out about themselves instead of reassuring him. Yes, the nice words happened after but they all acted unkindly the first time. And okay, they can have bad reactions it's not the point but that it was treated as the right reaction was my problem.
Other than this I also didn't really gel with the writing style. It was dialogue heavy and missed deep emotions entirely. I could feel zero chemistry between the MCs, their relationship lacked connection and the relationship angst was built on the above mentioned closeted status.
Overall, this book was very superficial and was not kind to one of the gay MCs. It felt like the token M/M book to prove something.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
The book is about a closeted football quarterback, Alex and his coach's son, Carter who steals his heart and makes him reconsider his self-imposed recluse life.
It is quite frankly, a standard trope but it was kind of butchered in this book. The most problematic point was actually the main angst topic of the book so it wasn't something I could look past.
Alex's unwillingness to come out and his closeted status was treated absolutely disgustingly.
I am a firm believer that everyone has a right to come out or not come out on their own terms. No one has the right to make them feel bad about not sharing this part of their identity.
And in this book? Both the love interest and several of the teammates have voiced their disappointment of Alex "lying" to them making hime feel bad about himself and feeling he's done something wrong.
I almost put the book down when this happened the first time but I wanted to see if this was a one off in the story... unfortunately it wasn't. Several people, except from two very nice individuals, made Alex's coming out about themselves instead of reassuring him. Yes, the nice words happened after but they all acted unkindly the first time. And okay, they can have bad reactions it's not the point but that it was treated as the right reaction was my problem.
Other than this I also didn't really gel with the writing style. It was dialogue heavy and missed deep emotions entirely. I could feel zero chemistry between the MCs, their relationship lacked connection and the relationship angst was built on the above mentioned closeted status.
Overall, this book was very superficial and was not kind to one of the gay MCs. It felt like the token M/M book to prove something.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 20, 2022
I seriously LOVE this football romance series, and I simply cannot get enough. Normally I won't even type the Denver Mountain Lions since I've been obsessed with the Denver Broncos my whole life (and I'm no spring chicken that's for sure), but the Broncos are making the worse showing this season when they shouldn't be, so I felt like I could say Mountain Lions because my beloved Broncos deserve it LOL! A lot of you won't understand but this is how I roll. Alex Young is the star QB for the Mountain Lions, and what most don't know about him is he's gay. I know there's a stigma attached to sports about a gay player so I found this story very emotional & realistic. I normally don't read MM romance but again, I love this series, and I LOVED this story to boot. Anyway I digress, Alex has met someone who is perfect for him but since he resides in the closet, things are a bit bumpy with Carter, and that's all I'll say about that because it's more fun to go in blind. This story was easily devoured in one sitting, and it's one that I'll reread along with the other books in the series because it's just that good! So here's to the Denver Mountain Lions, may they never play like the current Denver Broncos! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
August 15, 2024
This is my first book by this author and I ended up really enjoying it. This is book 3 in the series which is mainly MF romances with this one being MM. I didn’t find I was missing anything by not reading the others and thought the author did a great job with the MM side of things.
I really loved the dynamic between the buff football quarterback Alex and the nerdy teacher Carter. It was different than I expected and it turned out great. There is a third act breakup and issues surrounding coming out but I was happy with their HEA!
If you’re looking for a fun football read then I would recommend checking this one out!
I really loved the dynamic between the buff football quarterback Alex and the nerdy teacher Carter. It was different than I expected and it turned out great. There is a third act breakup and issues surrounding coming out but I was happy with their HEA!
If you’re looking for a fun football read then I would recommend checking this one out!
June 10, 2024
2.5 it was okay stars.
The rest of the series is apparently mf? So maybe that's why I didn't vibe with it. Just wasn't my jam. It was okay. It felt super long and I had to keep putting it down and coming back to it. The audio isn't that long, it just felt that way :/
The rest of the series is apparently mf? So maybe that's why I didn't vibe with it. Just wasn't my jam. It was okay. It felt super long and I had to keep putting it down and coming back to it. The audio isn't that long, it just felt that way :/
October 12, 2022
My Review 🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈
I loved this MM romance - normally I don’t read these but I feel in love with Alex in the previous book I knew that it would be one I had to read.
Carter & Alex an beyond great. With being the quarterback Alex always wanted to find love his love just happens to be with another man an that was a secret he had had for so long. Until Carter came into his world he was fine settling work just football in his life.
Carter just so happens to be the coaches son, an falling for yet another football player was not what he wanted but when I school project puts him on the path of Alex sparks fly.
These two are beyond adorable and I loved that they would stay home, joke about comic books & boy bands then go an be apart of the scene. Alex may be hiding away, but slowly Carter starts to get more.
I loved them an would say read this one an an take the chance on a MM Sports romance 🏈♥️🏈
I loved this MM romance - normally I don’t read these but I feel in love with Alex in the previous book I knew that it would be one I had to read.
Carter & Alex an beyond great. With being the quarterback Alex always wanted to find love his love just happens to be with another man an that was a secret he had had for so long. Until Carter came into his world he was fine settling work just football in his life.
Carter just so happens to be the coaches son, an falling for yet another football player was not what he wanted but when I school project puts him on the path of Alex sparks fly.
These two are beyond adorable and I loved that they would stay home, joke about comic books & boy bands then go an be apart of the scene. Alex may be hiding away, but slowly Carter starts to get more.
I loved them an would say read this one an an take the chance on a MM Sports romance 🏈♥️🏈
October 7, 2022
Score another winning touchdown for Emily Silver! Sideline Infraction was a sweet, swoony, and sexy MM football teacher romance that left my heart feeling deliciously happy. This is book 3 of Silver’s Denver Mountain Lions series, and every time another player finds his HEA, I smile! I adored that Carter, a high school math teacher, took a chance on love with Alex, a professional quarterback, even though he had been hurt in the past. Alex had inner conflicts of his own to overcome, and I am so glad he finally found the courage to step out and shine as his true self! Plus, Alex and Carter have this magnetic pull towards each other that was instant fire and simply meant to be! The deep, meaningful conversations these two had with each other as they fell were so heartfelt, and the romantic gestures made me melt!
Overall, I loved this book! If you are a fan of a MM football romance with a hot even-keeled quarterback, a dedicated dreamy math teacher, statistics class, high school dances, rival football games, mountain biking, picnic dates, comic books, the Backstreet Boys, spicy times, finding confidence, healing from the past, loyal friends and teammates, and a HEA that will leave your heart cheering, then you will love Alex and Carter’s romance. I always look forward to more from Emily Silver.
Overall, I loved this book! If you are a fan of a MM football romance with a hot even-keeled quarterback, a dedicated dreamy math teacher, statistics class, high school dances, rival football games, mountain biking, picnic dates, comic books, the Backstreet Boys, spicy times, finding confidence, healing from the past, loyal friends and teammates, and a HEA that will leave your heart cheering, then you will love Alex and Carter’s romance. I always look forward to more from Emily Silver.
October 6, 2022
"𝘞𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺?"
Just when I thought this series couldn’t get any better, Emily went and came out with Alex’s story.
This story grabbed me by the heart and still hasn’t let go. From the very beginning, I was invested and needing more with each turn of the page.
I was giggling and smiling so big. Tears definitely fell at some points. And at the end, Emily found a way to make me fall in love with MM romance in a way that no other author has.
Five stars for this amazing read that had me wishing for more when it was all said and done. I cannot wait to see where the rest of the series takes me!
Just when I thought this series couldn’t get any better, Emily went and came out with Alex’s story.
This story grabbed me by the heart and still hasn’t let go. From the very beginning, I was invested and needing more with each turn of the page.
I was giggling and smiling so big. Tears definitely fell at some points. And at the end, Emily found a way to make me fall in love with MM romance in a way that no other author has.
Five stars for this amazing read that had me wishing for more when it was all said and done. I cannot wait to see where the rest of the series takes me!
October 16, 2022
Every time a read another book from this author I love it even more than the last and Sideline Infraction is no different!
The sparks fly the minute Alex and Carter first meet each other! But there are a couple of complications. None of Alex's teammates know that he is gay, Carter has sworn off football players after a bad experience in school and oh Carter is the son of Alex' coach! But the hearts want what the hearts want!
Alex and Carter where just everything and I loved their chemistry! As always I loved catching up with the rest of the players on the team and also a couple of surprise appearances from another favourite couple of mine!
I loved every minute of Alex and Carter's story and I can't wait for the next in the series.
The sparks fly the minute Alex and Carter first meet each other! But there are a couple of complications. None of Alex's teammates know that he is gay, Carter has sworn off football players after a bad experience in school and oh Carter is the son of Alex' coach! But the hearts want what the hearts want!
Alex and Carter where just everything and I loved their chemistry! As always I loved catching up with the rest of the players on the team and also a couple of surprise appearances from another favourite couple of mine!
I loved every minute of Alex and Carter's story and I can't wait for the next in the series.
October 16, 2022
Sideline infraction is the first book I’ve read by this author and yes I hopped into this series with the third book rather than starting from the beginning. With that said I didn’t feel like I missed out much story from the other two books there are no spoilers for previous books in the series.
Alex and Carter are perfect for one another and whilst there is a moment when things went abit off things pulled together beautifully. I can’t wait to see where this series goes and will definitely go back and read the first two books. The emotions you feel whilst reading this book go through you I was hooked from the first page and couldn’t put this book down.
Alex and Carter are perfect for one another and whilst there is a moment when things went abit off things pulled together beautifully. I can’t wait to see where this series goes and will definitely go back and read the first two books. The emotions you feel whilst reading this book go through you I was hooked from the first page and couldn’t put this book down.
October 7, 2022
Oh my heart, “Sideline Infraction” is an emotional, heartfelt, steamy and fun story that grabbed me right from the beginning and stole my heart.
Alex Young is the captain and quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions. Last season, his team was close to making it to the big game. It’s now a new season and he’s even more determined to get them the big win. But when a group of high school students come to a practice, their teacher catches his eye. Carter Brooks has sworn off anymore relationships with athletes after getting his heart broken by one in high school. However, he has a pull to Alex he can’t deny but Alex hasn’t come out of the closet due to the negative feedback he might get back from fans and other athletes.
Alex’s story of coming out is so raw and emotional, I had to wipe tears from my eyes several times. His struggles are so relatable to so many and as someone who is deeply involved in the LGBTQ community, I could see several of my friends as Alex and what they went through. I loved Carter from his very first POV chapter and how genuine he was. He loves his family and teaching and is such a good guy. I loved how these two met, especially with a certain connection Carter has to the Mountain Lions, and all the special moments we got to read as they became friends and then a couple. The steamy scenes were absolutely delicious and some of the spiciest Emily Silver has written and I’m all for it. The last few chapters grabbed me with the vulnerability of Alex and Carter. This is a story I will be thinking about for a long time and I can’t wait to start recommending it to readers.
Alex Young is the captain and quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions. Last season, his team was close to making it to the big game. It’s now a new season and he’s even more determined to get them the big win. But when a group of high school students come to a practice, their teacher catches his eye. Carter Brooks has sworn off anymore relationships with athletes after getting his heart broken by one in high school. However, he has a pull to Alex he can’t deny but Alex hasn’t come out of the closet due to the negative feedback he might get back from fans and other athletes.
Alex’s story of coming out is so raw and emotional, I had to wipe tears from my eyes several times. His struggles are so relatable to so many and as someone who is deeply involved in the LGBTQ community, I could see several of my friends as Alex and what they went through. I loved Carter from his very first POV chapter and how genuine he was. He loves his family and teaching and is such a good guy. I loved how these two met, especially with a certain connection Carter has to the Mountain Lions, and all the special moments we got to read as they became friends and then a couple. The steamy scenes were absolutely delicious and some of the spiciest Emily Silver has written and I’m all for it. The last few chapters grabbed me with the vulnerability of Alex and Carter. This is a story I will be thinking about for a long time and I can’t wait to start recommending it to readers.
October 18, 2022
This author is new to me, so I'm not coming into the series with enjoyment of previous MC's as a starting point. This book can be read as a standalone, however you might get more enjoyment of you read the previous books first (mf).
Sideline Infraction is a sports romance that relies mostly on Alex being a closeted NFL star for it's tension and drama. There's nothing particularly innovative about this storyline, but it's shored up by likeable main and side characters and some well executed game time scenes.
Alex and Carter are sweet characters and Alex always treats Carter with respect, with one glaring exception.
It's dual POV first person with medium to high heat levels.
I wasn't a huge fan of the way most people reacted when Alex disclosed his sexuality; if someone comes out to you, they never owed you that information and their reasons for keeping it to themselves were/are valid so, don't make it about you.
I received a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing and have chosen to leave an honest review.
Sideline Infraction is a sports romance that relies mostly on Alex being a closeted NFL star for it's tension and drama. There's nothing particularly innovative about this storyline, but it's shored up by likeable main and side characters and some well executed game time scenes.
Alex and Carter are sweet characters and Alex always treats Carter with respect, with one glaring exception.
It's dual POV first person with medium to high heat levels.
I wasn't a huge fan of the way most people reacted when Alex disclosed his sexuality; if someone comes out to you, they never owed you that information and their reasons for keeping it to themselves were/are valid so, don't make it about you.
I received a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing and have chosen to leave an honest review.
October 24, 2022
From the moment I started reading this book I knew it was going to be a touchdown! From its charming yet complicated m/m romance, to the internal and external pressures weighing on this pair, theirs was a journey that kept me glued to the pages. From romance to friendship this couple captivated me, kept me thoroughly entertained and rooting for the two of them to get on the same page.
Alex Young is the young hotshot quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions, determined to bring home the championship this year...if he can just keep his eyes on the prize. And as this story starts it's high school math teacher Carter Brooks who's the prize in this tale of insta-love. From the moment Alex and Carter meet things turn combustible! These two are a match Made in Heaven...if Alex can just get out of his own way. It's clear that he has strong feelings for Carter early on, but worries about how others will view him and feels as if he has much to live up to. Despite the sweet times embedded within their relationship, along with some sensual encounters, theirs is an angsty journey when Alex must make a big decision regarding his future. The reasoning behind it was reasonable and it hurt my heart just as much as it hurt Alex's heart. The road to HEA for these two often put a smile on my face, gave me all sorts of warm fuzzies early on, before breaking my heart later on.
On a whole this was a romance full of heart and soul, a romance between a math nerd and a star quarterback, that utterly captivated me. Carter's a strong-willed man, comfortable in his skin, who embraces his life completely. Alex isn't quite there yet when the story starts though, instead hiding from the truth and keeping what he and Carter have a secret, in a connection that kept me rooting for them both. The interactions between Alex and his teammates, along with Alex and his coach, warmed my heart in the strength, love, and support expressed between the characters. From the first page to the last this was a story that played with my emotions, building them up before leaving me with a few tears. It's an intensely emotional tale that fully immerses me in a love that was meant to be...and another entertaining installment in a very well-crafted series!
Alex Young is the young hotshot quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions, determined to bring home the championship this year...if he can just keep his eyes on the prize. And as this story starts it's high school math teacher Carter Brooks who's the prize in this tale of insta-love. From the moment Alex and Carter meet things turn combustible! These two are a match Made in Heaven...if Alex can just get out of his own way. It's clear that he has strong feelings for Carter early on, but worries about how others will view him and feels as if he has much to live up to. Despite the sweet times embedded within their relationship, along with some sensual encounters, theirs is an angsty journey when Alex must make a big decision regarding his future. The reasoning behind it was reasonable and it hurt my heart just as much as it hurt Alex's heart. The road to HEA for these two often put a smile on my face, gave me all sorts of warm fuzzies early on, before breaking my heart later on.
On a whole this was a romance full of heart and soul, a romance between a math nerd and a star quarterback, that utterly captivated me. Carter's a strong-willed man, comfortable in his skin, who embraces his life completely. Alex isn't quite there yet when the story starts though, instead hiding from the truth and keeping what he and Carter have a secret, in a connection that kept me rooting for them both. The interactions between Alex and his teammates, along with Alex and his coach, warmed my heart in the strength, love, and support expressed between the characters. From the first page to the last this was a story that played with my emotions, building them up before leaving me with a few tears. It's an intensely emotional tale that fully immerses me in a love that was meant to be...and another entertaining installment in a very well-crafted series!
October 9, 2022
Sideline Infraction is my first read by Emily Silver and it was an emotional and steamy read for sure. This MM sports romance was full of the thrill of sports, the emotional turmoil of two hearts and loads of sexy times.
Denver Mountain Lions Quarterback Alex Young is determined to take him team to superbowl victory this year. All his teammates have found love and he is feeling lonely. He is gay and afraid to come out as the sports world isn't always supportive. But then he meets Carter, son of his coach and math teacher with nerdy hotness. Carter was hesitant to trust him as he had a bad dating experience with football player.What will happen when the secret comes out?
overall, it was very adorable and swoony but when Alex's issues come to play..things get complicated. Alex and Carter clicked together fast. Almost love at first sight. They are so amazing together. Carter is a full package. Who knew glasses can be such a sexy thing? He is smart and intelligent and caring. I felt sad for him as the secrets did hurt him badly. I do understand that Alex had his own fears and insecurities and the sports world can be brutal. But I feel he shouldn’t have taken so long to explain it to Carter specially after Carter shared his past. I feel Carter would have understood and helped him. But better late than never. He did realize he lost the best thing ever happened to him and he did all the appropriate groveling. That was a grand gesture for sure. The chemistry was sizzling hot.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Denver Mountain Lions Quarterback Alex Young is determined to take him team to superbowl victory this year. All his teammates have found love and he is feeling lonely. He is gay and afraid to come out as the sports world isn't always supportive. But then he meets Carter, son of his coach and math teacher with nerdy hotness. Carter was hesitant to trust him as he had a bad dating experience with football player.What will happen when the secret comes out?
overall, it was very adorable and swoony but when Alex's issues come to play..things get complicated. Alex and Carter clicked together fast. Almost love at first sight. They are so amazing together. Carter is a full package. Who knew glasses can be such a sexy thing? He is smart and intelligent and caring. I felt sad for him as the secrets did hurt him badly. I do understand that Alex had his own fears and insecurities and the sports world can be brutal. But I feel he shouldn’t have taken so long to explain it to Carter specially after Carter shared his past. I feel Carter would have understood and helped him. But better late than never. He did realize he lost the best thing ever happened to him and he did all the appropriate groveling. That was a grand gesture for sure. The chemistry was sizzling hot.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
October 20, 2022
I make no bones about loving sports romance. I make no bones about my love of MM romance. Put them both together and you have a guaranteed winner...at least for me.
Add in the author's ability to move me to tears with tender moments from a star Quarterback and the love of his life and this book is ticking ALL my boxes!
Sideline Infraction will grab you from the first page to the last and you'll grieve when you realise that there is no more Alex and Carter.
I loved every minute of this book and can't wait for the next book in the Denver Mountain Lions series.
Add in the author's ability to move me to tears with tender moments from a star Quarterback and the love of his life and this book is ticking ALL my boxes!
Sideline Infraction will grab you from the first page to the last and you'll grieve when you realise that there is no more Alex and Carter.
I loved every minute of this book and can't wait for the next book in the Denver Mountain Lions series.
October 20, 2022
Every book in this series is just so freaking good and Sideline Infractions is no exception I loved Alex and Carter. Their first meeting you already knew they were going to be HOT. Their chemistry is fire. These two definitely have some complications to work through if they want to be together and boy do they. These two were undeniable you just knew they were not going to be able to not be with one another. This is one of those stories you cant help but fall in love and will totally melt your heart. Another win for me!!
October 14, 2022
I love this series! Cater is a high school math teacher doing a project with his students. Alex is a quarterback for the NFL, he is not out but wants a relationship. This to together were amazing! The more time they spent together the stronger their connection was. These two had to navigate though some complicated issues, one step at a time. I really enjoyed Cater and his honesty and how much he cared for Alex. The story was well written and the characters had a great story to tell. I have Really enjoyed this writers fast paced writing style and can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
October 14, 2022
Sideline Infraction is Denver Mountain Lions book #3. Although part of a series it’s a perfect standalone story. But after reading this one I can’t wait to read books #1 and #2.
When Alex and Carter meet it’s obvious the heat is on between the two of them. But Alex can’t let anyone know he’s gay and Carter is out but has a past with a football player and swore “never a player again”. But feelings can’t be managed that easily.
I loved everything about this book: the characters, the description of the team and it’s family vibe. It all added up. Aren’t we all entitled to love and be loved just as we are.
Emily Silver is a new to me author, but if her other books are as good as this one she will be added to my (short) list of favourite authors!
I received an arc of this book and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
When Alex and Carter meet it’s obvious the heat is on between the two of them. But Alex can’t let anyone know he’s gay and Carter is out but has a past with a football player and swore “never a player again”. But feelings can’t be managed that easily.
I loved everything about this book: the characters, the description of the team and it’s family vibe. It all added up. Aren’t we all entitled to love and be loved just as we are.
Emily Silver is a new to me author, but if her other books are as good as this one she will be added to my (short) list of favourite authors!
I received an arc of this book and this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
February 7, 2023
carter & Alex are 🔥🔥🔥
This was such a deep and beautiful story full of hope, healing, trust & taking a chance on love. When Carter & Alex meet, the instant attraction and chemistry creates a story that seems so genuine. The story line captured my attention in the first chapter and kept me interested throughout. I loved everything about this book.
This was such a deep and beautiful story full of hope, healing, trust & taking a chance on love. When Carter & Alex meet, the instant attraction and chemistry creates a story that seems so genuine. The story line captured my attention in the first chapter and kept me interested throughout. I loved everything about this book.
October 9, 2022
This was a heartfelt, emotional rollercoaster and I loved every single thing about it. I fell in love with the author's writing style when the last book in this series (Colin's story) released, then I read Jackson and I couldn't wait to get my hands on more of the series. To see this book was going to be a M/M romance novel made me squeel with happiness. Carter and Alex made it all happen. They definitely did not disappoint. I absolutely fell in love with each of them, but also with their relationship. They really complement one another and the love just jumps out of the books, it has such a realistic feel to it. It wad a fast and easy read and I absolutely enjoyed it from the first to the very last sentence.
4,5 stars.
4,5 stars.
October 16, 2022
For my first MM book to read (on its own not part of a RH) I was not disappointed at all. This book was a great sports romance. All the great ups and down just perfect.
October 11, 2022
Omg Alex and Carter's story is just amazing!! I couldn't put it down. Quarterback and the teacher, both nerds and love comic books!! This story is adorable and swoonworthy!! We get to hear about all our favorite characters too. I love this series!!
January 12, 2023
With his best friends and teammates all starting to pair off, Alex Young, star quarterback of the Denver Mountain Lions, sometimes wishes he could find love himself. He's afraid to risk losing his career by revealing to the world that he's gay, however, so he limits himself to anonymous off-season hookups. Everything changes when Alex meets high school math and statistics teacher Carter Brooks, son of the Mountain Lions' head coach. Looking for a way to help his students understand the real-world applications of statistics, he comes up with a project involving football and arranges for his class to meet with his father's team. After a bad experience when he was in high school, Carter never expects to find himself attracted to one of the players, but he can't help being smitten with Alex. The connection between them quickly grows, but when Carter finds out that he's still in the closet, will Alex be forced to choose between his football career and the man he loves?
I really enjoyed Alex and Carter's story. Their banter was a ton of fun and I loved how playful they were with each other. They were both incredibly likeable, sympathetic characters, and even though I've never been in Alex's position, I totally understood his fears about the impact coming out would have on his career. It was very emotional to watch him wrestle with the decision to come out, knowing everything that he was risking. I wish the world were a kinder place so that these kinds of decisions would never even come up!
I highly recommend "Sideline Infraction" for all contemporary/sports romance fans and look forward to the next book in the series.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really enjoyed Alex and Carter's story. Their banter was a ton of fun and I loved how playful they were with each other. They were both incredibly likeable, sympathetic characters, and even though I've never been in Alex's position, I totally understood his fears about the impact coming out would have on his career. It was very emotional to watch him wrestle with the decision to come out, knowing everything that he was risking. I wish the world were a kinder place so that these kinds of decisions would never even come up!
I highly recommend "Sideline Infraction" for all contemporary/sports romance fans and look forward to the next book in the series.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 7, 2022
As always Emily did an awesome with these characters. Alex was a quarterback & Carter
was his teacher!! So it was intense at times when reading their story!!! But their chemistry was 🔥 and the s3xual tension was HOT!! I loved their story. Read it :)
This is a MM romance and the spice was good!
was his teacher!! So it was intense at times when reading their story!!! But their chemistry was 🔥 and the s3xual tension was HOT!! I loved their story. Read it :)
This is a MM romance and the spice was good!
October 7, 2022
**I received this as an ARC**
This was my first book by Emily Silver, and I was definitely not disappointed. This is an MM sports romance. Alex and Carter are insanely cute together, and I loved every second of their story.
This was my first book by Emily Silver, and I was definitely not disappointed. This is an MM sports romance. Alex and Carter are insanely cute together, and I loved every second of their story.
March 10, 2025
Irgendwie bin ich in die erste Hälfte schwer rein gekommen. Obwohl ich Alex ja schon aus den Bänden davor toll fand und auch zu Beginn seiner eigenen Geschichte. Aber diesmal hat es doch etwas länger gedauert um das alles zu fühlen. Carter mochte ich auch sofort, ihn lernt man ja erst in Sideline Infraction kennen aber den nerdigen Mathelehrer findet, denke ich, jeder sofort toll.
Wie auch schon in Band eins und zwei, wird es schnell ernst und schnell spicy, mich stört das ja nie aber dennoch bis zur Hälfte war's nicht ganz meins.
Doch die zweite Hälfte habe ich dann in einem Rutsch weggesnackt und es ging mir stellenweise sogar echt nah!! Homosexualität im Profisport ist nun leider noch immer viel zu oft ein Tabu Thema, aber ich finde es wurde hier real beschrieben und ich konnte sehr mit Alex mitfühlen.
Auch das, das Footballteam wieder viel Platz bekommen hat, hat mich sehr glücklich gemacht.
Nach wie vor bin ich der Meinung das die Reihe perfekt für zwischendurch ist und einfach Spaß macht.
Ich gebe Sideline Infraction 3 von 5 Sterne und freue mich jetzt sehr auf Band vier und auch auf die Novelle danach.
Wie auch schon in Band eins und zwei, wird es schnell ernst und schnell spicy, mich stört das ja nie aber dennoch bis zur Hälfte war's nicht ganz meins.
Doch die zweite Hälfte habe ich dann in einem Rutsch weggesnackt und es ging mir stellenweise sogar echt nah!! Homosexualität im Profisport ist nun leider noch immer viel zu oft ein Tabu Thema, aber ich finde es wurde hier real beschrieben und ich konnte sehr mit Alex mitfühlen.
Auch das, das Footballteam wieder viel Platz bekommen hat, hat mich sehr glücklich gemacht.
Nach wie vor bin ich der Meinung das die Reihe perfekt für zwischendurch ist und einfach Spaß macht.
Ich gebe Sideline Infraction 3 von 5 Sterne und freue mich jetzt sehr auf Band vier und auch auf die Novelle danach.
October 22, 2022
In the Closet…
Alex is the quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions and he’s holding on to the biggest secret of his life. He is gay and terrified of anyone finding it out in the league. Being gay in sports has not always been well received and there is still quite a bit of prejudice.
When Alex meets the coaches son Carter, when he brings his students to the stadium, he feels an instant connection with the high school teacher.
They become close but Alex is hiding from Carter too, he’s not out and Carter doesn’t know that. When Carter finds out it’s heartbreaking and he’s so angry with Alex.
Alex is struggling when Carter won’t talk to him. He makes the biggest decision of his life and hopes that it’s not the biggest mistake of his life.
I was so excited to read Alex’s story and I was not disappointed. Carter and Alex were so sweet and I was rooting for them through the whole book.
Alex is the quarterback for the Denver Mountain Lions and he’s holding on to the biggest secret of his life. He is gay and terrified of anyone finding it out in the league. Being gay in sports has not always been well received and there is still quite a bit of prejudice.
When Alex meets the coaches son Carter, when he brings his students to the stadium, he feels an instant connection with the high school teacher.
They become close but Alex is hiding from Carter too, he’s not out and Carter doesn’t know that. When Carter finds out it’s heartbreaking and he’s so angry with Alex.
Alex is struggling when Carter won’t talk to him. He makes the biggest decision of his life and hopes that it’s not the biggest mistake of his life.
I was so excited to read Alex’s story and I was not disappointed. Carter and Alex were so sweet and I was rooting for them through the whole book.
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