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She Can Play #1
She's a Keeper
Lionel Miller was my best friend, the love of my life and my first heartbreak.
Before he went pro, we were inseparable.
I was his Buttercup and he was my Butch.
That is, until the unexpected happened.
In one swift stomp to my heart we went from best friends and lovers… to strangers.
What happens when years later, he makes a surprise appearance at my wedding?
Where do we go from here?
How do we deal with the hurt from the past, and is there still something between us?
Can we rekindle the flames or has our love burned out?
Tropes
⚽️ Second Chance
💚 Childhood Best Friends
⚽️ Friends to Lovers
💚 Black Love
⚽️ Dual Timeline
💚 Dual POV
⚽️ Caribbean Culture
💚 Young Adult
⚽️ New Adult
💚 Football Romance
Before he went pro, we were inseparable.
I was his Buttercup and he was my Butch.
That is, until the unexpected happened.
In one swift stomp to my heart we went from best friends and lovers… to strangers.
What happens when years later, he makes a surprise appearance at my wedding?
Where do we go from here?
How do we deal with the hurt from the past, and is there still something between us?
Can we rekindle the flames or has our love burned out?
Tropes
⚽️ Second Chance
💚 Childhood Best Friends
⚽️ Friends to Lovers
💚 Black Love
⚽️ Dual Timeline
💚 Dual POV
⚽️ Caribbean Culture
💚 Young Adult
⚽️ New Adult
💚 Football Romance
237 pages, ebook
Published November 30, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 24, 2023
This book kept me flipping the pages. For the first few pages, I was a little confused by the writing style, but then I quickly adjusted to the present tense. I think because the book's written in present tense. A few times, however, the author slipped into the past tense. (I wish more self-published books were edited, but I get that it's expensive.)
The beginning is really nice to read: friends to lovers in high school who plan to lose their virginities at prom. I liked how them both losing their virginities was written very realistically, and Lionel was such a gentleman about it, being like we don't have to do this if you're not ready, tell me anytime you want to stop, etc.
I was surprised the conflict took a while to hit, and I was waiting for it to hit 😂
Not that it didn't make sense because it did, but I didn't like the conflict that led to a breakup. It just felt like why am I reading this when all Jazmine had to do was give in to their relationship. I guess you could say I didn't like the overall plot. I don't know.
Maybe I'm cynical, but I feel like if I knew someone my whole life, we wouldn't have anything to talk about anymore. And that's how I felt was the case with them a lot of times. It was kind of funny for them to be sightseeing in Rome and Paris because you typically don't read that in a romance novel.
I liked how the author included Saint Lucian Creole, her language, in the book. I appreciated that even though she added a little glossary in the beginning, she also put the translation in the text immediately after. I hate when authors expect us to flip to a glossary while reading.
Now I want to go to St. Lucia, an island in the Caribbean I don't think I had even heard of before. 😂
I also liked how both the main characters were black. Had the author not mentioned Jaz's afro and his hair, I wouldn't have known (besides the ARC sign-up saying "black love"). I can't remember the last time I read a book where the main characters weren't white or partially white. Honestly, I don't go out of my way to read diversely--I just read the books I'm interested in--but for those who want to read books with POC characters, I recommend this one.
They did eat quite a few times in this book 😂 But what I liked about that was the food seemed to be traditional recipes.
Thank you to the author for the ARC! This hasn't affected my review. If you're in the mood for a second chance romance featuring two football (soccer) players and young love, definitely give this book a chance :)
The beginning is really nice to read: friends to lovers in high school who plan to lose their virginities at prom. I liked how them both losing their virginities was written very realistically, and Lionel was such a gentleman about it, being like we don't have to do this if you're not ready, tell me anytime you want to stop, etc.
I was surprised the conflict took a while to hit, and I was waiting for it to hit 😂
Not that it didn't make sense because it did, but I didn't like the conflict that led to a breakup. It just felt like why am I reading this when all Jazmine had to do was give in to their relationship. I guess you could say I didn't like the overall plot. I don't know.
Maybe I'm cynical, but I feel like if I knew someone my whole life, we wouldn't have anything to talk about anymore. And that's how I felt was the case with them a lot of times. It was kind of funny for them to be sightseeing in Rome and Paris because you typically don't read that in a romance novel.
I liked how the author included Saint Lucian Creole, her language, in the book. I appreciated that even though she added a little glossary in the beginning, she also put the translation in the text immediately after. I hate when authors expect us to flip to a glossary while reading.
Now I want to go to St. Lucia, an island in the Caribbean I don't think I had even heard of before. 😂
I also liked how both the main characters were black. Had the author not mentioned Jaz's afro and his hair, I wouldn't have known (besides the ARC sign-up saying "black love"). I can't remember the last time I read a book where the main characters weren't white or partially white. Honestly, I don't go out of my way to read diversely--I just read the books I'm interested in--but for those who want to read books with POC characters, I recommend this one.
They did eat quite a few times in this book 😂 But what I liked about that was the food seemed to be traditional recipes.
Thank you to the author for the ARC! This hasn't affected my review. If you're in the mood for a second chance romance featuring two football (soccer) players and young love, definitely give this book a chance :)
November 27, 2023
❗️SPOILERS❗️
____________________________
💜"In my heart, it's always been you."
____________________________
She's a keeper is book #1 in the She Can Play series. This is a second chance romance written in dual POV. The book is broken down in two parts, the first half is the past, and the second is the present. Jazmine "Jaz" Charles and Lionel "Lio" Miller have been friends since before they could walk. Growing up their families were always very close, and they spent a lot of time together. When they were 17, they realized their friendship was more than just being best friends and Lionel finally asked her to be his girlfriend. They stayed together until one misunderstanding in college, and Lionel went off to chase his dreams of becoming a professional football (soccer) player and Jazmine moved on to plan a wedding with another man. But, what happens when your first love shows up at your wedding and objects?
✔️Second Chance
✔️Football (Soccer) ⚽️
✔️Virgins (both)
____________________________
💜"Lionel Miller has always felt like you. I always feel whole in his presence. He is like the other half of my soul."
____________________________
PART ONE:
Part one of the book follows Jazmine and Lionel from the age of 8, until age 20. It shows how their relationship grows, and eventually crumbles.
THOUGHTS WHILE READING: ⬇️
▪️ Their Powerpuff Girls references, she's his Buttercup. But, it's adorable how at 8 she would make him watch episodes with her.
▪️ I am obsessed with the 365 day jar. How cute!
▪️ Wait, they graduate before they go to prom?
▪️ They got prom queen & king!! YAY.
▪️ I love how their parents are supportive of their relationship. His parents even go as far as to setting up the hotel room to make their first time together memorable. Parenting goals?
▪️ I wish someone whisked me off to Italy for my birthday. 🇮🇹
▪️ I thought she was immature when it came to him talking to her about his professional football dreams. Yes, he should have talked to her sooner but she acted like him choosing to chase his dreams meant there wasn't a place for her still.
▪️ WTF was that text message? 'cause I know it's not cheating. He's too invested in their relationship, and I just don't accept that he was faking all that.
____________________________
💜"I had no right to interrupt her wedding, but I couldn't let her walk down the aisle without fighting for our love. She belongs to me, and no one else. She made the promise too."
____________________________
PART TWO:
Part two of the book is the present. I loved seeing the development of their relationship in the first half of the book, but seeing them find their way back together... SWOON. This section follows them from when Jazmine calls off her wedding to Hunter, them finally communicating about their break up, and fighting for each other.
THOUGHTS WHILE READING: ⬇️
▪️ She canceled the wedding.
▪️ Again, I was annoyed with Jazmine because she wanted Lionel to fight for her, and was upset that he went back to Paris after she couldn't even sit down and hear him out.
▪️ I can't even believe she would think that he would cheat on her. I said it once, and I'll say it again but he was way to invested in her and their relationship.
▪️ Hunter... I don't even know. What a d-bag. Who would go through all of that just to ruin someones life? And expect to keep the girl? Plus, 5 years later you didn't delete your emails? Always delete the evidence. LOL
▪️ Thankfully Jazmine got it together, and went after what she wanted.
▪️His proposal was EVERYYYYYTHING. I love how he also made sure their families were included. Family plays such a huge part in their relationship and I just love it. 💍
____________________________
💜"No other person or thing could fill the void. No matter how hard I tried. Jazmine Charles is my soulmate, my everything. I knew it as a teenager, and I still do now."
____________________________
I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review and opinion. If you made it this far, I highly recommend this book. As stated above, there were parts that I thought that Jazmine's character was immature, but in reality she was basically her own worst enemy. She was so in her head, it was like she was waiting for the shoe to drop and the rug to be pulled out from under her. We all need a Lionel in our lives! He was invested since day one, and even while they weren't together, or speaking, he still sent her gifts over the years to remind her that he was thinking of her. And he was such a romantic. Ugh - get you someone who loves you like Lionel loves Jazmine.
I can't wait to read Grinder, which comes out in 2024.
____________________________
💜"In my heart, it's always been you."
____________________________
She's a keeper is book #1 in the She Can Play series. This is a second chance romance written in dual POV. The book is broken down in two parts, the first half is the past, and the second is the present. Jazmine "Jaz" Charles and Lionel "Lio" Miller have been friends since before they could walk. Growing up their families were always very close, and they spent a lot of time together. When they were 17, they realized their friendship was more than just being best friends and Lionel finally asked her to be his girlfriend. They stayed together until one misunderstanding in college, and Lionel went off to chase his dreams of becoming a professional football (soccer) player and Jazmine moved on to plan a wedding with another man. But, what happens when your first love shows up at your wedding and objects?
✔️Second Chance
✔️Football (Soccer) ⚽️
✔️Virgins (both)
____________________________
💜"Lionel Miller has always felt like you. I always feel whole in his presence. He is like the other half of my soul."
____________________________
PART ONE:
Part one of the book follows Jazmine and Lionel from the age of 8, until age 20. It shows how their relationship grows, and eventually crumbles.
THOUGHTS WHILE READING: ⬇️
▪️ Their Powerpuff Girls references, she's his Buttercup. But, it's adorable how at 8 she would make him watch episodes with her.
▪️ I am obsessed with the 365 day jar. How cute!
▪️ Wait, they graduate before they go to prom?
▪️ They got prom queen & king!! YAY.
▪️ I love how their parents are supportive of their relationship. His parents even go as far as to setting up the hotel room to make their first time together memorable. Parenting goals?
▪️ I wish someone whisked me off to Italy for my birthday. 🇮🇹
▪️ I thought she was immature when it came to him talking to her about his professional football dreams. Yes, he should have talked to her sooner but she acted like him choosing to chase his dreams meant there wasn't a place for her still.
▪️ WTF was that text message? 'cause I know it's not cheating. He's too invested in their relationship, and I just don't accept that he was faking all that.
____________________________
💜"I had no right to interrupt her wedding, but I couldn't let her walk down the aisle without fighting for our love. She belongs to me, and no one else. She made the promise too."
____________________________
PART TWO:
Part two of the book is the present. I loved seeing the development of their relationship in the first half of the book, but seeing them find their way back together... SWOON. This section follows them from when Jazmine calls off her wedding to Hunter, them finally communicating about their break up, and fighting for each other.
THOUGHTS WHILE READING: ⬇️
▪️ She canceled the wedding.
▪️ Again, I was annoyed with Jazmine because she wanted Lionel to fight for her, and was upset that he went back to Paris after she couldn't even sit down and hear him out.
▪️ I can't even believe she would think that he would cheat on her. I said it once, and I'll say it again but he was way to invested in her and their relationship.
▪️ Hunter... I don't even know. What a d-bag. Who would go through all of that just to ruin someones life? And expect to keep the girl? Plus, 5 years later you didn't delete your emails? Always delete the evidence. LOL
▪️ Thankfully Jazmine got it together, and went after what she wanted.
▪️His proposal was EVERYYYYYTHING. I love how he also made sure their families were included. Family plays such a huge part in their relationship and I just love it. 💍
____________________________
💜"No other person or thing could fill the void. No matter how hard I tried. Jazmine Charles is my soulmate, my everything. I knew it as a teenager, and I still do now."
____________________________
I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review and opinion. If you made it this far, I highly recommend this book. As stated above, there were parts that I thought that Jazmine's character was immature, but in reality she was basically her own worst enemy. She was so in her head, it was like she was waiting for the shoe to drop and the rug to be pulled out from under her. We all need a Lionel in our lives! He was invested since day one, and even while they weren't together, or speaking, he still sent her gifts over the years to remind her that he was thinking of her. And he was such a romantic. Ugh - get you someone who loves you like Lionel loves Jazmine.
I can't wait to read Grinder, which comes out in 2024.
November 23, 2023
Lio and Jaz were each other firsts and each others everything. Then the unexpected happened. When he arrives several years later at her wedding, what will happen?
Lio is so tender and sweet with Jaz, the perfect book boyfriend. Their relationship is perfection. This story takes you on a ride of emotions, and leaves you feeling satisfied and happy. Sweet, spicy and beautiful characters.
Lio is so tender and sweet with Jaz, the perfect book boyfriend. Their relationship is perfection. This story takes you on a ride of emotions, and leaves you feeling satisfied and happy. Sweet, spicy and beautiful characters.
November 21, 2023
Where do I even begin….this book had it all, laughs, tears, anger, sports, and did I mention tears, both happy and sad. I would love to see more of lio and Jaz they are for sure the ultimate power couple!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2023
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Such a good read. I love soccer and watching these 2 grow up playing and loving the sport is refreshing. They had lots of ups and downs which is just like normal life and seeing the love that they have for each other and how they learn to fight for what they want and end up back together is lovely. I would recommend this book.
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Such a good read. I love soccer and watching these 2 grow up playing and loving the sport is refreshing. They had lots of ups and downs which is just like normal life and seeing the love that they have for each other and how they learn to fight for what they want and end up back together is lovely. I would recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2023
If you’re a fan of second chance romance, black romance, friends to lovers or are looking for sweet/fluffy read. I highly recommend this book!
November 28, 2023
This book gives a lot of feels while reading it. There is laughs, tears (happy and sad), anger, second chance and more. This is a different writing style I was used to but was able to adjust quickly. Also I liked how the author used her language (Saint Lucian Creole) and gave a glossary in the beginning of the book but also translated it right after she used a phrase.
Jazmine and Lionel have been friends for so long and both were scared to further their relationship in fear of losing their friendship if something goes wrong. They finally take the next step and eventually want to lose their virginities at prom. Lionel was so respectful of Jazmine and made sure she was okay with continuing on. They seemed so perfect and even moved away to continue their schooling and football (soccer from where I am from) journey. The jar Lionel gave Jazmine was so sweet!I kept waiting for the conflict to come up.
Eventually the conflict did come and my heart broke for Jazmine. They were amazing at communicating until Lionel made a major decision without Jazmines opinion. That same night something else happened (we find out more about this night later on) that caused Jazmine to want space and then fast forward she was getting married. I was so mad at Jazmine and Lionel for not communicating because they loved each other so much and they were perfect for each other.
Lionel objected at her wedding and because of that this started their path of coming together again. This missed out on 5 years together all over someone wanting revenge on Lionel and not communicating. I am so happy that they were able to make it back to their true love.
Jazmine and Lionel have been friends for so long and both were scared to further their relationship in fear of losing their friendship if something goes wrong. They finally take the next step and eventually want to lose their virginities at prom. Lionel was so respectful of Jazmine and made sure she was okay with continuing on. They seemed so perfect and even moved away to continue their schooling and football (soccer from where I am from) journey. The jar Lionel gave Jazmine was so sweet!I kept waiting for the conflict to come up.
Eventually the conflict did come and my heart broke for Jazmine. They were amazing at communicating until Lionel made a major decision without Jazmines opinion. That same night something else happened (we find out more about this night later on) that caused Jazmine to want space and then fast forward she was getting married. I was so mad at Jazmine and Lionel for not communicating because they loved each other so much and they were perfect for each other.
Lionel objected at her wedding and because of that this started their path of coming together again. This missed out on 5 years together all over someone wanting revenge on Lionel and not communicating. I am so happy that they were able to make it back to their true love.
March 25, 2024
Lio is a total dream man, romantic and thoughtful and devoted and the friendship to lovers vibe always has such a powerful connection to it.
Both characters are driven and watching them work together for their goals is beautiful.
Oh boy I was not ready for the few twists! Thrown in at perfect timing for excellent shock value, I was practically itching to read faster, finish, see how and if it could all come right.
What a journey these 2 went on through the most prominent years of their lives!
Both characters are driven and watching them work together for their goals is beautiful.
Oh boy I was not ready for the few twists! Thrown in at perfect timing for excellent shock value, I was practically itching to read faster, finish, see how and if it could all come right.
What a journey these 2 went on through the most prominent years of their lives!
January 5, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
I loved this so badddd!! I love me some second chance and this was just written sooooo welllll!!!
From the back story, to the tension, to the drama, to the love. I definitely need this physical copy.
Lio & Jaz have known each other for years. They were the besties you see and your like yea they are the end goal. Both planning to be pro footballers ( soccer ) they start there lives together as a couple and an IT couple at that. But when Lio’s plans to be a pro footballer actually come into reach things get tricky. With people planning on there down fall they split.
5 years later Lio is ready to get his girl back and is stopping at nothing to get her back.
Jaz pissed me off most of this book but I understand you went through what you went through so you need time but girl 5 years come onnnnn. But I’m glad she came around and took that step forward to get her man cuz if she didn’t me and her would have a problem!! Me and Courtney would’ve jumped her ass idc idc idc.
All in all I definitely enjoyed this and now I’m bout to jump into the rest of this series.
You would seriously love this is you love Quick Read, Fast Paced, Second Chance, SoulMates .
I loved this so badddd!! I love me some second chance and this was just written sooooo welllll!!!
From the back story, to the tension, to the drama, to the love. I definitely need this physical copy.
Lio & Jaz have known each other for years. They were the besties you see and your like yea they are the end goal. Both planning to be pro footballers ( soccer ) they start there lives together as a couple and an IT couple at that. But when Lio’s plans to be a pro footballer actually come into reach things get tricky. With people planning on there down fall they split.
5 years later Lio is ready to get his girl back and is stopping at nothing to get her back.
Jaz pissed me off most of this book but I understand you went through what you went through so you need time but girl 5 years come onnnnn. But I’m glad she came around and took that step forward to get her man cuz if she didn’t me and her would have a problem!! Me and Courtney would’ve jumped her ass idc idc idc.
All in all I definitely enjoyed this and now I’m bout to jump into the rest of this series.
You would seriously love this is you love Quick Read, Fast Paced, Second Chance, SoulMates .
December 2, 2023
I loved it. Tears, laughter, hurt, anger – I felt every emotion while reading it. If you're looking for a second-chance romance with a cinnamon roll MMC and the 'it's always us forever' vibe, this is the one for you.
I loved how their first time was realistic, unlike other books. Lionel (MMC) was sweet and considerate, which was adorable. It was kind of funny and cute when Jaz (FMC) said, 'Can you be a little gentler? This isn't your game controller you're playing with.'
Later, Lionel said, 'Can you relax a bit? You wouldn't want to rip it off, would you?'
Lionel is a cinnamon roll for Jazmine. He's the best – sweet, considerate, confident, ambitious, and possessive.
Jazmine is sweet, loving, and caring but jumps to conclusions without actually confronting MMC, which I didn't like. If she did, there wouldn't have been any misunderstandings. Then again, I'm the same; Jaz reminded me of myself. I loved how, after realizing her mistake, Jaz fought for him, and Lionel never gave up on her.
Where can I find a guy like Lionel? 🥺. I loved the author's writing style ❤️.
Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV - Dual
Ending - Happy ending
I loved how their first time was realistic, unlike other books. Lionel (MMC) was sweet and considerate, which was adorable. It was kind of funny and cute when Jaz (FMC) said, 'Can you be a little gentler? This isn't your game controller you're playing with.'
Later, Lionel said, 'Can you relax a bit? You wouldn't want to rip it off, would you?'
Lionel is a cinnamon roll for Jazmine. He's the best – sweet, considerate, confident, ambitious, and possessive.
Jazmine is sweet, loving, and caring but jumps to conclusions without actually confronting MMC, which I didn't like. If she did, there wouldn't have been any misunderstandings. Then again, I'm the same; Jaz reminded me of myself. I loved how, after realizing her mistake, Jaz fought for him, and Lionel never gave up on her.
Where can I find a guy like Lionel? 🥺. I loved the author's writing style ❤️.
Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV - Dual
Ending - Happy ending
November 30, 2023
Firstly: I love that the author prefaces the book with Saint Lucian French Creole phrases. Throughout the book, they also add translations so you don't need to go back to the beginning of the book either.
The familial, platonic, and romantic love that Lionel and Jasmine hold for one another really comes through in the first few chapters. I was gripped by their history and what could possibly have gone wrong between them.
The betrayal and path back together was really well done. It's more than just a misunderstanding, and I'm so relieved by that.
Also, the first sex scene? The author nails awkward, consensual sex, making it steamy but not perfect.
Thanks to the author for the ARC!
The familial, platonic, and romantic love that Lionel and Jasmine hold for one another really comes through in the first few chapters. I was gripped by their history and what could possibly have gone wrong between them.
The betrayal and path back together was really well done. It's more than just a misunderstanding, and I'm so relieved by that.
Also, the first sex scene? The author nails awkward, consensual sex, making it steamy but not perfect.
Thanks to the author for the ARC!
November 28, 2023
This is definitely a book for second chance romance fans and Tember Sapphire's debut book. It's a sweet read about Lio and Jaz, childhood friends who became sweethearts but loose contact due to some circumstances. After some years they meet again and the spark between them is still alive.
While reading I was a little disappointed how two people, who are so close to each other than these two, are not able to communicate with each other before breaking up.
While reading I was a little disappointed how two people, who are so close to each other than these two, are not able to communicate with each other before breaking up.
November 28, 2023
I super cute second romance ! They were childhood friends that were each other first everything! This was my first book by this author and absolutely loved it!
January 27, 2025
So happy that I found this series and this author. This is a friends to lovers book that takes readers on a ride. It starts off with a bang and then takes readers back to the beginning where it all started for Jazmine Charles and Lionel Miller. Next door neighbors and best friends. They did everything together. One day they both realized that they had feelings for each other and started a relationship. The went to school together and both played football. Both were good.
Ya'll Lio is THE book bae. He is so sweet and considerate of Jaz's love language which is words of affirmation. He showers her with the love and affection she needs. So, the one time he doesn't take her into consideration, she bolts. Not saying that is all that happened. You will definitely need to read the book to get the full story. Long story short. They break up and are apart for five years. Readers are finally caught up with present. Can they try to be friends again? These two were end game. Their families are very close. Their breakup effected more than just them. Can they salvage any part of the relationship they previously had? This book is good. I can't wait to read the next book. We get a book on all of the Charles' sisters. I am totally here for it. On to the next one.
Ya'll Lio is THE book bae. He is so sweet and considerate of Jaz's love language which is words of affirmation. He showers her with the love and affection she needs. So, the one time he doesn't take her into consideration, she bolts. Not saying that is all that happened. You will definitely need to read the book to get the full story. Long story short. They break up and are apart for five years. Readers are finally caught up with present. Can they try to be friends again? These two were end game. Their families are very close. Their breakup effected more than just them. Can they salvage any part of the relationship they previously had? This book is good. I can't wait to read the next book. We get a book on all of the Charles' sisters. I am totally here for it. On to the next one.
April 7, 2024
She's a Keeper is about....
♡Childhood Best Friends
♡Friends to Lovers
♡Second Chance Romance
♡Football Romance
♡Dual POV
♡Caribbean Culture
♡Soulmates
I really enjoyed reading about Lionel and Jazmine growing up as best friends and falling in love in their teenage years. I loved hearing about all that amazing food!! Yum!! I didn't like that they had such a deep connection, but they couldn't communicate with each other!? I don't want to give too much away, but I'm so happy with how it turned out!
♡Childhood Best Friends
♡Friends to Lovers
♡Second Chance Romance
♡Football Romance
♡Dual POV
♡Caribbean Culture
♡Soulmates
I really enjoyed reading about Lionel and Jazmine growing up as best friends and falling in love in their teenage years. I loved hearing about all that amazing food!! Yum!! I didn't like that they had such a deep connection, but they couldn't communicate with each other!? I don't want to give too much away, but I'm so happy with how it turned out!
March 21, 2024
This book was okay. I didn't love it but I also didn't hate it which is why I rated it 3 stars. Only books that really piss me off or I didn't enjoy get below 3 stars. Though I probably wouldn't read it again, I did still enjoy the book and would be willing to read another book by this author in the future.
I don't really know how to explain it but the first half of this book was written very stiff. I felt like the sentences didn't flow and it lacked the storytelling element to it. I do feel like it did get better in the second half though but still wasn't perfect. Because of that, it did cause me to take a while to get into the story. I also felt like there were a lot of unnecessary details being told like the entire process of them going to the airport/being at the airport, it just wasn't relevant in my opinion.
SPOILERS!!
Personally I like when second chance books don't spend too much time in the past so I didn't love that 40% of this book was about their past. I did feel like the twist or whatever was a bit far fetched for me. It just seemed like a bit out of reach that someone would go to those lengths. I didn't like that she just dropped her career in football/soccer because of him, they did get her back into soccer in the end but I wish she would have stayed on that career path to begin with.
It did piss me off that she just threw almost 2 decades of friendship & 3 years of a romantic relationship away because of some out of context pictures sent from a mysterious unknown number. I am glad she did take accountability for that in the end but it did really annoy me. I was also really frustrated with her still running away from the issue 5 years later and just never giving him a chance to explain himself after everything they went through. She also mentioned that he should have tried harder to save them but she literally shut him out completely and went through a 3rd person to plan his move out of their apartment. And despite that he still tried to reach out, left her a letter and gave her gifts on her birthday. I like that she flew out to Paris to show him that she wanted to work on their relationship and that she wanted to work on not running away anymore.
The fact that she used the things that they had planned together for their wedding in her wedding with Hunter hurt.
Though there were some things I didn't enjoy about this book, it was still a really cute and fast read. I love childhood friends to lovers and second chance, they always get me. I liked seeing their families all spend time with each other and seeing them treating each other like family like when Courtney would joke around with Lio and call him Mr Professional or ruffle his hair or how Lio would always go to Jazmine's house for breakfast. It was also really interesting to read about Caribbean culture, since I've never been there and I've never read a book set in the Caribbean before. The buttercup nickname was cute because it was a call back to them as kids which I love. Their relationship also felt like a real partnership which was nice to see. I love that they both would buy presents for each other or cook food for each other, etc. It was refreshing to see both characters give equally in the relationship. Another thing that I really liked was the discussion on consent. This portrayed how you can still make sure everything is consensual and it won't "ruin the mood". There were also a few discussions about mental health in this book as well which I did appreciate
I don't really know how to explain it but the first half of this book was written very stiff. I felt like the sentences didn't flow and it lacked the storytelling element to it. I do feel like it did get better in the second half though but still wasn't perfect. Because of that, it did cause me to take a while to get into the story. I also felt like there were a lot of unnecessary details being told like the entire process of them going to the airport/being at the airport, it just wasn't relevant in my opinion.
SPOILERS!!
Personally I like when second chance books don't spend too much time in the past so I didn't love that 40% of this book was about their past. I did feel like the twist or whatever was a bit far fetched for me. It just seemed like a bit out of reach that someone would go to those lengths. I didn't like that she just dropped her career in football/soccer because of him, they did get her back into soccer in the end but I wish she would have stayed on that career path to begin with.
It did piss me off that she just threw almost 2 decades of friendship & 3 years of a romantic relationship away because of some out of context pictures sent from a mysterious unknown number. I am glad she did take accountability for that in the end but it did really annoy me. I was also really frustrated with her still running away from the issue 5 years later and just never giving him a chance to explain himself after everything they went through. She also mentioned that he should have tried harder to save them but she literally shut him out completely and went through a 3rd person to plan his move out of their apartment. And despite that he still tried to reach out, left her a letter and gave her gifts on her birthday. I like that she flew out to Paris to show him that she wanted to work on their relationship and that she wanted to work on not running away anymore.
The fact that she used the things that they had planned together for their wedding in her wedding with Hunter hurt.
Though there were some things I didn't enjoy about this book, it was still a really cute and fast read. I love childhood friends to lovers and second chance, they always get me. I liked seeing their families all spend time with each other and seeing them treating each other like family like when Courtney would joke around with Lio and call him Mr Professional or ruffle his hair or how Lio would always go to Jazmine's house for breakfast. It was also really interesting to read about Caribbean culture, since I've never been there and I've never read a book set in the Caribbean before. The buttercup nickname was cute because it was a call back to them as kids which I love. Their relationship also felt like a real partnership which was nice to see. I love that they both would buy presents for each other or cook food for each other, etc. It was refreshing to see both characters give equally in the relationship. Another thing that I really liked was the discussion on consent. This portrayed how you can still make sure everything is consensual and it won't "ruin the mood". There were also a few discussions about mental health in this book as well which I did appreciate
December 22, 2023
𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿
Bishie Rose 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 & 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘𝒔 𝒆𝒙𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 Tember Sapphire 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝑹𝑪 & 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆! 𝐼 𝑑𝑜𝑛'𝑡 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑛𝑜𝑟 𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑡𝒉𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑙 𝑡𝒉𝑒 𝑓𝑢𝑛😊!
🌹
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤📔: She's a Keeper
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫✍🏽: Tember Sapphire
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Sports Romance
𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬: 237
𝐏𝐮𝐛: November 30, 2023
𝐂𝐨𝐩𝐲: Digital
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 5/5
🌹
"When you meet your soul mate, you just Know."
The plot was good, though the shift from teenage into present was a bit abrupt. The structure of the story developed wonderfully showing the character's development at each stage: Childhood, teenage, and adulthood. Lionel - is every woman's dream man. Considerate, loving, kind, faithful, and supportive, and knows how to treat his love. He does have his flaws as he thinks he can make decisions without including the other partner's thoughts and decisions. Jasmine is the balance to Lionel. She's loving, kind, stubborn, supportive and competitive. She's also flawed as any person with not confront the issues or problems that arise but runs away. She also gave up on a relationship that deserved its fair time to be heard and then for the problems to be solved. She's a Keeper was told through the narrative of First Person povs giving the reader insight into each character's feelings and emotions. The tone of the author was good. The characters were friendly, adoring, affectionate, and appreciative. Then at some point got a little selfish, uncertain, and despairing. I felt the love through the story and was expectant of the MC's joy. I found the MFC to be loveable and relatable. The MMC was cute and made the story feel a joy to read, especially with the appreciative gentlemanly things he did. The story engaged my senses thoroughly as I could imagine the setting, characters, and scenes. Even the way the Converse was engaging and had me laughing. The author's writing style was narrative and descriptive.
Rose Perspective:
"When you're an only child also means i'm spoiled and get everything I want."
Tember Sapphire wrote a wonderful story for a debut and I loved that she infused a bit of her home islands culture into the story. I was immersed in the story and enjoyed the journey of love, friendship, anger, hurt, and misunderstandings. I didn't like that Jaz didn't confront Lio about his night out, showed she wasn't as invested in the relationship with trust in her partner as she should have. She was too quick to run and give up on the relationship. I admired Lionel's commitment to the woman he loved and how he fought for her. However, I felt that he could have approached the issue that started the misunderstanding better.
She's a Keeper was a lovely love story.
If you love:
♡Childhood Best Friends
♡Friends to Lovers
♡Second Chance Romance
♡Football (sports) Romance
♡Dual POV
♡Caribbean Culture
♡Soulmates
♡Black Love
♡Travel Romance
♡Island Love
♡HEA
♡Misunderstandings
Then you will enjoy this!
Bishie Rose 𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 & 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘𝒔 𝒆𝒙𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 Tember Sapphire 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝑹𝑪 & 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆! 𝐼 𝑑𝑜𝑛'𝑡 𝑔𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑛𝑜𝑟 𝑡𝑒𝑙𝑙 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑡𝒉𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑙 𝑡𝒉𝑒 𝑓𝑢𝑛😊!
🌹
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤📔: She's a Keeper
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫✍🏽: Tember Sapphire
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Sports Romance
𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬: 237
𝐏𝐮𝐛: November 30, 2023
𝐂𝐨𝐩𝐲: Digital
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 5/5
🌹
"When you meet your soul mate, you just Know."
The plot was good, though the shift from teenage into present was a bit abrupt. The structure of the story developed wonderfully showing the character's development at each stage: Childhood, teenage, and adulthood. Lionel - is every woman's dream man. Considerate, loving, kind, faithful, and supportive, and knows how to treat his love. He does have his flaws as he thinks he can make decisions without including the other partner's thoughts and decisions. Jasmine is the balance to Lionel. She's loving, kind, stubborn, supportive and competitive. She's also flawed as any person with not confront the issues or problems that arise but runs away. She also gave up on a relationship that deserved its fair time to be heard and then for the problems to be solved. She's a Keeper was told through the narrative of First Person povs giving the reader insight into each character's feelings and emotions. The tone of the author was good. The characters were friendly, adoring, affectionate, and appreciative. Then at some point got a little selfish, uncertain, and despairing. I felt the love through the story and was expectant of the MC's joy. I found the MFC to be loveable and relatable. The MMC was cute and made the story feel a joy to read, especially with the appreciative gentlemanly things he did. The story engaged my senses thoroughly as I could imagine the setting, characters, and scenes. Even the way the Converse was engaging and had me laughing. The author's writing style was narrative and descriptive.
Rose Perspective:
"When you're an only child also means i'm spoiled and get everything I want."
Tember Sapphire wrote a wonderful story for a debut and I loved that she infused a bit of her home islands culture into the story. I was immersed in the story and enjoyed the journey of love, friendship, anger, hurt, and misunderstandings. I didn't like that Jaz didn't confront Lio about his night out, showed she wasn't as invested in the relationship with trust in her partner as she should have. She was too quick to run and give up on the relationship. I admired Lionel's commitment to the woman he loved and how he fought for her. However, I felt that he could have approached the issue that started the misunderstanding better.
She's a Keeper was a lovely love story.
If you love:
♡Childhood Best Friends
♡Friends to Lovers
♡Second Chance Romance
♡Football (sports) Romance
♡Dual POV
♡Caribbean Culture
♡Soulmates
♡Black Love
♡Travel Romance
♡Island Love
♡HEA
♡Misunderstandings
Then you will enjoy this!
December 3, 2023
My rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Recommend? Yes
My mind was all over the place throughout the entire book. From the beginning, I was slightly confused or more so overwhelmed with the storyline. It took me a little while to understand the gist of it, but once I caught on it was a very easy & attention grabbing read. I appreciated the first person POV from both Lio & Jaz, it really gave me the insight to both sides of the story. The first part of the book to me was a cute coming of age romance, then I reached the part of the break up. After that it seemed as if I knew what was going to happen for the rest of the book. A few things bothered me here, first, how was it over so quickly? They’ve been friends and then lovers for so long, how did it crumble in one night? It doesn’t seem right that neither of them would push harder to discover the truth, and at least end things on good terms. Second, when the photo was mentioned, it set the scene for a very predictable ending. After a little while reading I absolutely could not stand Lionel, he bothered me so much with how annoying and obsessive he seemed. Especially when he made it sound like Jaz was his property. This made it hard to get through his POV, but I continued to enjoy Jaz’s side of the story. I also feel as if there was a good amount of fluff in the book that it could’ve gone without. For example, I couldn’t care less about what drills Lionel did at training, it had no correlation to the plot. By the end, I didn’t hate him quite as much, but I did still feel like he was very arrogant.
The book wrapped up perfectly, allowing me to finish it satisfied. All loose ends were tied, and any questions I had were answered. I do wish the epilogue would have been way further in the future, maybe 5 years after. Overall I enjoyed the read & would recommend it to others for a nice easy read.
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Recommend? Yes
My mind was all over the place throughout the entire book. From the beginning, I was slightly confused or more so overwhelmed with the storyline. It took me a little while to understand the gist of it, but once I caught on it was a very easy & attention grabbing read. I appreciated the first person POV from both Lio & Jaz, it really gave me the insight to both sides of the story. The first part of the book to me was a cute coming of age romance, then I reached the part of the break up. After that it seemed as if I knew what was going to happen for the rest of the book. A few things bothered me here, first, how was it over so quickly? They’ve been friends and then lovers for so long, how did it crumble in one night? It doesn’t seem right that neither of them would push harder to discover the truth, and at least end things on good terms. Second, when the photo was mentioned, it set the scene for a very predictable ending. After a little while reading I absolutely could not stand Lionel, he bothered me so much with how annoying and obsessive he seemed. Especially when he made it sound like Jaz was his property. This made it hard to get through his POV, but I continued to enjoy Jaz’s side of the story. I also feel as if there was a good amount of fluff in the book that it could’ve gone without. For example, I couldn’t care less about what drills Lionel did at training, it had no correlation to the plot. By the end, I didn’t hate him quite as much, but I did still feel like he was very arrogant.
The book wrapped up perfectly, allowing me to finish it satisfied. All loose ends were tied, and any questions I had were answered. I do wish the epilogue would have been way further in the future, maybe 5 years after. Overall I enjoyed the read & would recommend it to others for a nice easy read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2024
I want to dedicate myself to making you feel as loved and appreciated as you make me feel everyday.”
An enjoyable debut novel from Tember Sapphire! There are a plethora of things that I liked about this book, but the one I loved most was that the author proudly shared her culture with us. I found the incorporation of Saint Lucian Creole words and phrases to be a beautiful addition to the story, as well as, the sharing of the local cuisine. Another favorite of mine was Jazmine’s character growth. Whenever a character can self reflect, acknowledge their flaws, and then make a conscious effort to move through them to become a better version of themselves 👏 👏 👏 I immediately become their biggest fan / cheerleader! & then there’s Lionel, our beloved MMC. An absolute heartthrob, he’s sweet, romantic, attentive, and quite the gentleman, plus he can cook! 😍 Finally, I have to give a shout out to one of my favorite characters, Jazmine’s sister, Marie-Louise (Lou). She was an amazing support system for Jaz, being there for Jaz in her time of need, giving her space and time to process / grieve but then also knowing when to give tough love.
There were only a couple things I didn’t care for. The biggest one being one of the tropes that leads to the need for a second chance. (I don’t want to spoil it for those who enjoy it, so we’ll just leave it there.) But I will say, though it was a cleaner way to set-up for the opportunity at a second chance, it still wasn’t my favorite.
🌶️🌶️
If you enjoy friends to lovers, second chance, football ⚽️ romance, as well as, experiencing the taste of the Caribbean culture then I would recommend this book to you.
An enjoyable debut novel from Tember Sapphire! There are a plethora of things that I liked about this book, but the one I loved most was that the author proudly shared her culture with us. I found the incorporation of Saint Lucian Creole words and phrases to be a beautiful addition to the story, as well as, the sharing of the local cuisine. Another favorite of mine was Jazmine’s character growth. Whenever a character can self reflect, acknowledge their flaws, and then make a conscious effort to move through them to become a better version of themselves 👏 👏 👏 I immediately become their biggest fan / cheerleader! & then there’s Lionel, our beloved MMC. An absolute heartthrob, he’s sweet, romantic, attentive, and quite the gentleman, plus he can cook! 😍 Finally, I have to give a shout out to one of my favorite characters, Jazmine’s sister, Marie-Louise (Lou). She was an amazing support system for Jaz, being there for Jaz in her time of need, giving her space and time to process / grieve but then also knowing when to give tough love.
There were only a couple things I didn’t care for. The biggest one being one of the tropes that leads to the need for a second chance. (I don’t want to spoil it for those who enjoy it, so we’ll just leave it there.) But I will say, though it was a cleaner way to set-up for the opportunity at a second chance, it still wasn’t my favorite.
🌶️🌶️
If you enjoy friends to lovers, second chance, football ⚽️ romance, as well as, experiencing the taste of the Caribbean culture then I would recommend this book to you.
November 28, 2024
Loved it!!!⭐⭐⭐
Loved this book and this couple!!!! Where is my Lio😂????Lol was the perfect book boyfriend. This was just a good old fashion romance. A first love situation that stayed, grew and deepened. Enjoyed their friendship that was the foundation that started with mutual respect, support, and love that just grew from there. Loved the show re: how poor communication can cause a whole relationship to break down and the real turmoil that happens in trying to move on with other people and in life. Their families were awesome also. You just want to root for this couple and their love. I am usually not 5⭐ granter, esp for a such a familiar and straightforward storyline, but in times like these, it was nice to have a feel good read that laid out a good healthy relationship that we don't see ever happen. So in its own way it was a fantasy😊 with lots of steamy scenes, storytelling and MCs . Tember may have a new fan!
Loved this book and this couple!!!! Where is my Lio😂????Lol was the perfect book boyfriend. This was just a good old fashion romance. A first love situation that stayed, grew and deepened. Enjoyed their friendship that was the foundation that started with mutual respect, support, and love that just grew from there. Loved the show re: how poor communication can cause a whole relationship to break down and the real turmoil that happens in trying to move on with other people and in life. Their families were awesome also. You just want to root for this couple and their love. I am usually not 5⭐ granter, esp for a such a familiar and straightforward storyline, but in times like these, it was nice to have a feel good read that laid out a good healthy relationship that we don't see ever happen. So in its own way it was a fantasy😊 with lots of steamy scenes, storytelling and MCs . Tember may have a new fan!
November 29, 2023
"She's a Keeper" is a cute, quick read.
Strengths
It has PoC rep--always a plus for me!
Second Chance Romance--one of my favorite tropes
Childhood friends to lovers--also one of my favorite tropes
Supportive Family--always a good element, I especially appreciated the sister who gave Jazmine that kick in the butt, because Jazmine was being somewhat irrational
Other feedback
- Some of the transitions between scenes and chapters were a bit jarring/abrupt, but that could just be me.
- I did find myself longing for a bit more depth overall, but because this sits at the cusp between YA and NA, I was able to get over it and chalk it up to the ages of the MCs.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.)
Strengths
It has PoC rep--always a plus for me!
Second Chance Romance--one of my favorite tropes
Childhood friends to lovers--also one of my favorite tropes
Supportive Family--always a good element, I especially appreciated the sister who gave Jazmine that kick in the butt, because Jazmine was being somewhat irrational
Other feedback
- Some of the transitions between scenes and chapters were a bit jarring/abrupt, but that could just be me.
- I did find myself longing for a bit more depth overall, but because this sits at the cusp between YA and NA, I was able to get over it and chalk it up to the ages of the MCs.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.)
March 4, 2024
Quick, cute read.
What I liked was that we get told how they met as children and how they ended up together the first time and how they broke up. But I didn't like the mc's very much. They both seemed immature to me, and I honestly thought that they would've been both better off single or with someone else. Primarily because the main reason for the fmc to want him back was because he was her first love, and despite their long history, their relationship didn't feel that deep to me.
However, if you're looking for a quick, uncomplicated second chance romance story with minimal angst: this is the one.
What I liked was that we get told how they met as children and how they ended up together the first time and how they broke up. But I didn't like the mc's very much. They both seemed immature to me, and I honestly thought that they would've been both better off single or with someone else. Primarily because the main reason for the fmc to want him back was because he was her first love, and despite their long history, their relationship didn't feel that deep to me.
However, if you're looking for a quick, uncomplicated second chance romance story with minimal angst: this is the one.
November 27, 2024
She's A Keeper is book on in the She Can Play Series.
The first half of the book is looking at the start of their relationship, while the second half features a time jump and is looking at present time after their relationship ended five years previously. This is a very emotional rollercoaster of a story. At times I was on Lionel's side, but at others I was on Jazmine's side. They both had communication issues, but they were both each others first relationship so they probably were learning together on how to be together.
Overall, it was a solid story. I felt they were a good match for each other as long as they could keep the communication open between them.
The first half of the book is looking at the start of their relationship, while the second half features a time jump and is looking at present time after their relationship ended five years previously. This is a very emotional rollercoaster of a story. At times I was on Lionel's side, but at others I was on Jazmine's side. They both had communication issues, but they were both each others first relationship so they probably were learning together on how to be together.
Overall, it was a solid story. I felt they were a good match for each other as long as they could keep the communication open between them.
November 27, 2023
Lionel Miller was my best friend, the love of my life and my first heartbreak.
Before he went pro, we were inseparable.
I was his Buttercup and he was my Butch.
That is, until the unexpected happened.
In one swift stomp to my heart we went from best friends and lovers… to strangers.
What happens when years later, he makes a surprise appearance at my wedding?
Where do we go from here?
How do we deal with the hurt from the past, and is there still something between us?
Can we rekindle the flames or has our love burned out?
Tropes:
⚽️ Second Chance
💚 Childhood Best Friends
⚽️ Friends to lovers
💚 Black Love
⚽️ Dual Timeline
💚 Dual POV
⚽️ Caribbean Culture
💚 Young Adult
⚽️ New Adult
💚 Football Romance
N.B. The book is written in British English and Saint Lucian French Creole
Book link: https://books2read.com/u/bQeRB6
Before he went pro, we were inseparable.
I was his Buttercup and he was my Butch.
That is, until the unexpected happened.
In one swift stomp to my heart we went from best friends and lovers… to strangers.
What happens when years later, he makes a surprise appearance at my wedding?
Where do we go from here?
How do we deal with the hurt from the past, and is there still something between us?
Can we rekindle the flames or has our love burned out?
Tropes:
⚽️ Second Chance
💚 Childhood Best Friends
⚽️ Friends to lovers
💚 Black Love
⚽️ Dual Timeline
💚 Dual POV
⚽️ Caribbean Culture
💚 Young Adult
⚽️ New Adult
💚 Football Romance
N.B. The book is written in British English and Saint Lucian French Creole
Book link: https://books2read.com/u/bQeRB6
November 30, 2023
Second Chance Romance between best friends. A misunderstanding in college causes separation between Lio and Jaz. This book gave us friends to lovers, black love, Dual POV which is my favorite. Seeing things from both peoples' views made a book so good. The timeline in this story was great. I loved reading the before and after that surrounded their friendship. As a minority I loved reading about the culture reminded of where I grew up. Lio loved hard and was a great book boyfriend. Great debut novel I look forward to the future adventures you take us on.
December 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I try really hard not to be critical because writing is just plain hard. But this story. It read rather dry. It was a cute story of coming back together after a mistake and I loved that. But the characters were hard to feel connected to. I lost track of sisters names because they had nicknames that sounded really close to the MMC’s name so that was confusing when it came up. I didn’t get to know them much at all. Just this happened. Then I did this. And now I’m doing this. It felt weird. But the story has potential if you can get past those things it’s worth the read.
🌶️🌶️
I try really hard not to be critical because writing is just plain hard. But this story. It read rather dry. It was a cute story of coming back together after a mistake and I loved that. But the characters were hard to feel connected to. I lost track of sisters names because they had nicknames that sounded really close to the MMC’s name so that was confusing when it came up. I didn’t get to know them much at all. Just this happened. Then I did this. And now I’m doing this. It felt weird. But the story has potential if you can get past those things it’s worth the read.
October 27, 2025
second chance sports romance
From childhood Best friends to lovers, Jazmine and Lionel were the picture perfect couple. Foul play caused a rift in their relationship but as they say, ‘what’s meant to be, will be.’ Lollll! Lio was extremely attentive and pretty romantic, to be such a young man. One thing I truly enjoyed about the story was the Caribbean references. I Googled quite a bit of the foods that were in the book, just to see what they were. Overall I think this was a cute story and I enjoyed seeing their relationship progress from adolescence into adulthood.
From childhood Best friends to lovers, Jazmine and Lionel were the picture perfect couple. Foul play caused a rift in their relationship but as they say, ‘what’s meant to be, will be.’ Lollll! Lio was extremely attentive and pretty romantic, to be such a young man. One thing I truly enjoyed about the story was the Caribbean references. I Googled quite a bit of the foods that were in the book, just to see what they were. Overall I think this was a cute story and I enjoyed seeing their relationship progress from adolescence into adulthood.
November 29, 2023
This type of books (sports/2nd chance) are so my jam! I was super excited to see how this book was going to play out. I enjoyed the story and concept of the book but I felt I couldn't connect to it as much as I was hoping for. The writing felt a tad new, which this is Tember's 1st book. Again the story and concept of the book I loved.
Tropes-
Childhood Best Friends
Friends to Lovers
Second Chance Romance
Dual POV
Caribbean Culture
Virgins
Tropes-
Childhood Best Friends
Friends to Lovers
Second Chance Romance
Dual POV
Caribbean Culture
Virgins
December 1, 2023
First of all, thank you so much Tember for my ARC! I really enjoyed this book, it was so sweet! I’ve not read a love story like it, based around football but I really really liked it!
Lio & Jaz are just super cute, and their relationship was lush! They were just so smitten with eachother!🥰
I did find the age quite difficult at first as they’re quite young, but the story was just so lovely! It is definitely worth a read!💗
Lio & Jaz are just super cute, and their relationship was lush! They were just so smitten with eachother!🥰
I did find the age quite difficult at first as they’re quite young, but the story was just so lovely! It is definitely worth a read!💗
December 27, 2023
This was a cute little soccer/football romance. It’s very plot heavy with little spice. The characters are well written, however I didn’t really feel that they developed much past the first few chapters. The world building was on point. And the characters are loveable.
I would recommend this book to you if you like cute sports romances with a heavy plot and a low spice.
Character development ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Entertaining ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing style ⭐️⭐️⭐️
World building ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🥵
I would recommend this book to you if you like cute sports romances with a heavy plot and a low spice.
Character development ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Entertaining ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing style ⭐️⭐️⭐️
World building ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🥵
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