Rivalry

Vegas Aces: The Coach #1

by Lisa Suzanne

When I score the promotion of my dreams and my boss tells me to become best friends with the new head coach of the Vegas Aces, I do everything I can to prevent the inevitable from happening.

The Vegas Aces could’ve hired anyone as their head coach. Despite my protests and warnings, they chose Lincoln Nash.

With a family rivalry spanning two decades, I’ve been conditioned to hate the entire family. But there’s a special passion to my hatred for the new coach. He was my first when we were teenagers, and then a few days later, he broke my heart.

When I’m named the Vegas Aces team correspondent for my news channel and the team owner grants me the first exclusive interview, it takes everything in my power to keep it professional as I interview my mortal enemy.

A family feud may have torn us apart, but the biggest rivalry of all is going to be keeping my job as I fight my feelings for the new coach.

Genres: Sports, Sports Romance, Romance, Football, Enemies To Lovers, Second Chance, Second Chance Romance

182 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 30, 2023

About the author

Lisa Suzanne is an Amazon Top Ten Bestselling author of swoon-worthy superstar heroes, emotional roller coasters, and all the angst. She resides in Arizona with her husband and two kids. When she's not chasing her kids, she can be found working on her latest romance book or watching reruns of Friends.

Learn more about Lisa

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Reviews

[Kealyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rivalry (Vegas Aces: The Coach 1) by Lisa Suzanne

5/5 stars

Rivalry is the first book I ever read of Lisa Suzanne. And my lord, I completely fell in love with her writing style and the characters she created. The book is written in such an easy style. I was instantly swept up into the story. Jolene and Lincoln have my heart.

The book starts with Jolene being up for being the lead sports reporter for the Vegas Aces. She is battling against two male co-workers and she is fighting her heart out to get that job.

Meanwhile Lincoln Nash has an interview for being the lead coach of the Vegas Aces. I would be a big step up from his current position.

And when they find out the other one is in contention for the position their past comes to the surface again. They had a passionate, true and close band as teenagers. Right after they lose their virginity a rivalry between their families rises up blazingly hot. And they are ripped apart. They both hate the other family to their cores. While they also harbor a huge resentment towards each other. 

And now that Lincoln is coming back to town, all those feelings rush to the service again. They want to ignore the other one. They want to be stronger than the lust they feel. Stronger than the love they feel.

Even though this is a relatively short book. It was super addictive and super captivating. I devoured this beauty. And I'll jump straightaway into the second one!

And I will definitely read more of Lisa Suzanne's other books!

5 huge stars from me for this beauty.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am already a fan of Lisa Suzanne's books, I love her series where you can really get to know each character & go along for the romance ride.
Rivalry is a great start for the new Vegas Aces : Coach series. The history between Lincoln & Jolene puts an interesting spin on this series & I'm looking forward to seeing how it continues to play out as the series continue. Once you start one book in any of Lisa's series you won't want to stop until you finish the entire series. I received an ARC of this book but this is my honest review. Great start to the new series Lisa.

[Christina Sturgill · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 / 5 Stars
1.5 / Steam

This is part one of the story between Jolene and Lincoln.

Lincoln takes a position as the coach for the Vegas Aces and Jolene is the correspondent reporter for them. These two already have a history together. Their families hate each other and in turn they hate each other. They broke each other's hearts when they were younger but never fully got over each other. Now they have to work together and try to keep things professional.

This was such a fun read. It gave me romeo and juliet vibes with the rival families. Lincoln is trying to make his father proud and feels like it is never going to happen. Jolene has just gotten her dream job but has to work with Lincoln to keep it. The enemies to lover aspect starts out strong and keeps up throughout most of the book. You can feel the want rolling off both of them but there is just too much history and too much at stake.

This leaves off on a cliffhanger, just an FYI. This is just the beginning to their story and there is no HEA or HFN by the end of this. I am anxiously awaiting the next book to continue their story.

[Serialbookstarter:Marla · Rating 2 out of 5]

Romeo and Juliet works when you’re 16 but 20 years later the H’s Father is still telling him what to do???? This makes the H look weak and that’s a trope I hate…a weak mmc controlled by his parents. Not much happened in this book… it was well written and there were things I like but it dragged out so the story can be told in 5 books I stead of one or two… and I also hate when second chance romances are 20 years in the making!

[Doris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Great Start to Coach Series

What can I say, this author has done it again with another awesome sports romance. Now we have a series on the coach and nothing better than that coach be sexy and talented.

Lincoln Nash has a long history in the football world and now he gets his chance to be head coach for the Vegas Aces. There is so much at stake that there is no time for personal issues. That would be easier said than done especially with his ex now being the head of the team correspondent of the Vegas Aces. Jolene had her heart broke years ago when Lincoln dumped her due to their Romeo and Juliet type families.

I am hooked on this series already with just the first book in. There is so much yet to be told and I know Ms. Suzanne will have me on the edge of my seat throughout. This is yet another of her series that I highly recommend.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was fun!! i love how jolene & lincoln’s story is being released as a series and not just one book. i think it’ll give room for a lot of plot & character development!

the tropes just in this are some of my favorites and we get EVEN more in the other books and i’m just SO excited! feuding families! second chance! single mom! enemies to lovers! all the good stuff!!!!

lisa already put so much into this book & there’s still 4 more left! i’m so excited to see how jolene and lincoln’s story progresses!

thank you wordsmith publicity for the arc!

[Brittney Thigpen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been following this author since The Tight End series and this book just took off running! Once I started, I was completely immersed in the relationship of Jolene and Lincoln. Their chemistry was so intense that it brought me back to Ben and Kaylee in Tight Spot and I loved it! The pull that they have towards each other no matter how long it’s been is one of the reasons it made for a great story. And just when it was starting to get good, it ended on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see what this series has to offer!

[My Reading Era · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a captivating second-chance romance that follows Jolene and Lincoln, who are thrown back into each other's lives through their new roles with the Vegas Aces. Lincoln, the man who broke Jolene's heart decades ago, is part of a family locked in a deep-rooted feud with hers, adding tension to their undeniable chemistry. As they struggle to navigate their rekindled feelings and confront the unresolved issues of their past, the emotional depth of the story shines through. The narration perfectly captures the intensity of both characters, bringing their emotions to life. This book has a cliffhanger ending and I can't wait to listen to the next installment.


Thank you, Lisa Suzanne and Valentine PR for the ALC

[Heather Mulvihill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lincoln and his family come from football royalty Every one in their family has played football. Lincoln is currently a head coach for a professional team after his career ending injury . He interviewed with the Vegas Aces as their head coach and on the way out to his car, he spots Jolene, his former girlfriend.

Jolene is vying for the Vegas Aces field reporter position and will do anything in her power to deny Lincoln Nash that head coaching job. I love the rivalry between Jo and Lincoln. Sam is the bestie we all need in our lives. I can’t wait see what happens between them in the next book

[AddictedToReadingRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this book. Coach really surprised me. I wasn’t expecting this enemies to lovers be that hard in the enemy part but I’m here for everything can’t wait for all the tropes to be revealed in this series. I laughed so hard in some scenes because Jolene is so clueless about was going to happen to her, and makes me even more excited. I love, love and love JD5!!!! It’s really amazing having more Jack here. The rivalry between the Nashes and the Baileys is both frustrating and exciting. I’m so ready for more of Lincoln and Jolene. And that kiss was *chef kiss* perfection!

[Nicole Scarborough · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a perfect start and the prologue helped. I'm excited to see what's in store for these two. I love second chances. The chemistry is great and it was well written

[Grant Madden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honored to have been selected to read as an ARC reviewer. Great story line and background plots for the FMC and MMC. Can definitely be read without reading the other books tied to this series however I would encourage all to read in order for best understanding of most characters who are ties to the Aces books. For those who know this author it is as fanastic as the other books in this universe.

A great read for those who love sports romance and slow burn. And such angst for both main characters.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

What a great start to a new series and a continuation of the Vegas Aces football team. Rivalry is setting us up for a five-part series based on Lincoln and Jolene. We are just starting, as Lincoln is headed to Vegas as the new head coach for the Aces. You do not need to read the previous books to figure out how we got here, but this reader recommends them.

Jolene is a journalist for the local media and has covered the Aces in the past. But she and her family have a past with Lincon’s Family. We know the players, the potential trouble spots, a few returning friends, with a lot of unknowns to discover.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[Kim Lackey · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW***

Loved Lincoln and Jolene’s story.

Lincoln is the new Vegas Aces head coach. Jolene is the new Aces correspondent reporter. They have a past. Their families feud tore them apart 20 years ago. Sides were taken. Now they come face to face again. The animosity is still there. But so is the heat.

Will they survive working together? Can they fight their attraction? Can they survive their families disapproval? What is Lincoln hiding?

This is book one in the series. And it leaves you wanting more. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.

[BookishRaquel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 2/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 5/5 🎧

What to Expect:
- Sports Romance
- NFL Head Coach MMC
- Sports Reporter FMC
- Childhood/Teenage Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Forbidden Romance
- Single Mom
- Family Rivalry

Rivalry is part one of five in the Vegas Aces: The Coach series. I could not put this down! Reading/listening to this feels like a TV mini-series. In this first part, we are introduced to Jolene and Lincoln. They find themselves unexpectedly reunited in their professional lives with the Vegas Aces NFL team—Lincoln as a potential head coach and Jolene as an aspiring lead sports reporter. They were childhood sweethearts and have a complicated history. Unfortunately, a longstanding family feud has kept them apart for years. Now that they've been thrust back into each others' lives, they must confront unresolved issues and old feelings. This is such a fun story! The plot builds slowly, laying a detailed foundation for the characters and setting us up for more dramatic developments throughout the series.

Samantha Brentmoor and Aaron Shedlock narrate the story using dual-style narration. Their performances capture the depth of emotion and complexity of Lincoln and Jolene's relationship. Set against the backdrop of professional sports, the story explores the themes of second chances and unresolved past conflicts, with Romeo and Juliet vibes. I can't wait to continue the series and discover what happens next.

Thanks to Lisa Suzanne and Valentine PR for providing a gifted audiobook. Opinions expressed are my own.

[RandiLynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to be chosen as an ARC reader for Lisa’s new book! First, I absolutely love all of the Vegas Aces books! The twists and turns are fabulous and the characters jump off the page! Rivalry was no different! Lincoln and Jolene’s relationship is obviously deep and there are many details yet to be learned but my heart already aches for them. I cannot wait for the next book! I definitely need more Nash and Bailey family details!

[Lisa Mezzei]

First and foremost, I am already fan of Lisa Suzanne's books and have read several of her series. I tell anyone I recommend the books to that they need to hang on and enjoy the ride to the end. There will be twists, and angst, a bit of spice and more than one troupe touched on in each relationship. Her character development is good and the interwoven relationships are felt between more than just the main couple - friends, co-workers, teammates, etc. They are strong and there is a common theme of found family. The books are hard to put down, but read quickly. There are cliffhangers between books, but the ending resolution is worth it.

I was fortunate enough to read Rivalry as an ARC and am convinced Jolene and Lincoln may become my favorite couple she's written. This was a solid foundation for what is going to come. Two 30-something professionals (newly named Vegas Aces' team correspondent and the new Aces' head coach) that have lived a little, fought for their professional positions at the expense of fulfilling personal lives, suffered through a decades-long family rivalry and embody chemistry that's felt the moment they see each other again.

I love how strong and determined, but vulnerable single-mom Jolene is as the FMC, and Lincoln as the tortured, unapologetic young head coach out to prove himself is irresistible. Finally, we've got the second-chance/ first loves, forced proximity in working conditions, and a contemporary Montague / Capulet bitter family rivalry troupes and we're only in the first book. Cannot wait to read the rest of their story.

[Ophelia Grae · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are greeted with an amazing opportunity for our female lead, Jolene, getting the job of her life! She is so stoked to be the one reporting for Vegas’ football team- until she realizes that someone she was madly in love with when she was younger may become the coach. Lincoln is also on the up and up when he gets the coaching position with the team. The problem is that he sees Jolene, the one he had to let go and her family tried to ruin his. Through out their story, you could tell that they have unresolved issues even without the inner dialogue being played out in front of you. Because they have all this baggage with each other, they are having a really difficult time working together. They will have to be in contact all the time especially while traveling games. We can only hope that they can either talk it out together or talk to their families about what actually happened.

Another classic ‘miscommunication’ and ‘I hurt you to save you’ story. I am new to the sports romances, but this one was pretty good in my opinion. I enjoyed that they are working towards actually talking since they don’t have any other option. I also liked that Lincoln is actually really supportive of his brothers and trying to figure out how to stand up against his dad. Loved that she has the sweetest little boy who is just being the best he can. I want nothing but the best for him especially since his bio dad is awful. Not looking forward to seeing all of the good things being held against them in the long run.

[Ali Lucas · Rating 2 out of 5]

FIVE books for one couple????? absolutely ridiculous. and as soon as they kiss, the book ends? be so for real

[Cigi cini · Rating 4 out of 5]

AUDIO REVIEW 🎙️

💜 Enemies to Lovers
🏈 Pro Football
💜 Second Chance Romance
🏈 Secret Relationship
💜 Sports Romance

Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Narrators: Aaron Shedlock | Samantha Brentmoor

Rivalry by Lisa Suzanne is a sizzling second-chance romance filled with tension, unresolved feelings, and the complexities of family loyalty. The story centers on Jolene, who has just landed her dream job as the team correspondent for the Vegas Aces. The excitement of her new role, however, is dampened when she discovers that the team’s newly hired head coach is none other than Lincoln Nash—the man who broke her heart two decades earlier.

The novel begins with an intriguing premise: a deep-seated family rivalry spanning twenty years. Jolene has been conditioned to hate the entire Nash family, making Lincoln’s arrival as the Aces’ head coach particularly complicated. But the twist that adds extra heat to the story is the fact that Lincoln wasn’t just any Nash; he was her first love. This shared history creates an intense emotional foundation that sets the stage for their unavoidable reunion.

Lisa Suzanne does an excellent job of weaving together past and present, slowly revealing the reasons behind the family feud and the breakup between the two characters. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and their first reunion after nearly two decades crackles with tension. The challenge for Jolene is clear: she must keep things professional for the sake of her job, but her unresolved feelings for Lincoln make this increasingly difficult.

Lincoln is portrayed as a complex character, shaped by the same rivalry that has driven Jolene’s family apart. His return to her life brings up old wounds but also reignites the passion that once connected them. Lisa Suzanne captures their emotional journey well, as both characters struggle to navigate their feelings in the context of their respective family loyalties and professional responsibilities.

The dynamics of the family rivalry add depth to the story, making it more than just a second-chance romance. The pressure of maintaining her professionalism while being drawn to Lincoln creates a sense of urgency that propels the story forward. Jolene’s internal conflict—torn between loyalty to her family and her feelings for Lincoln—is well-developed and relatable.

Lisa Suzanne’s writing style is engaging, with plenty of witty banter and steamy moments to keep readers invested. The pacing of the story is well-done, with just the right balance of tension and emotional release as the characters work through their complicated history. The sports setting adds an extra layer of excitement, but the true heart of the novel lies in the rekindling of the romance between Jolene and Lincoln.

Overall, Rivalry is an entertaining and passionate read for fans of second-chance romance, particularly those who enjoy stories with strong emotional stakes and a mix of family drama. Lisa Suzanne’s ability to create relatable, complex characters and craft a romance that feels both intense and heartfelt makes this novel a standout in the sports romance genre. If you enjoy stories about forbidden love, unresolved tension, and the pull of the past, Rivalry is a must-read.

[Eleanor Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a roller coaster of emotions in this story.
So much was outlined in this fast paced audiobook to get us started and hooked.
The narrators of course sets the stage for the start of this series of events.
Samantha Brentmoor and Aaron Shedlock were perfect pairing for this series as they portrayed Characters Lincoln Nash and Jolene Bailey’s story!
It’s Perfection.


I’m starting off first of all by say this is definitely a retelling twist of a modern day Romeo and Juliet story.. Where the parent’s rivalry wrecked whatever could be between the young lovers Lincoln and Jolene.

Giving her up was one of the hardest things I ever had to do, and I did it for him.
It still didn’t make him proud.
Lincoln~

Jolene Bailey
Now a single mom who’s now also the Correspondent for the football team that is now being coached by the one person she thought she had gotten over.

The Vegas Aces could've hired anyone as their head coach. Despite my protests, they chose my enemy, Lincoln Nash.
Jolene Bailey~

But despite their family history and years passed between them since he left she now finds that she still have strong feeling towards him and wonder how in the world is she gonna survive working closely with Lincoln Nash and not have these intense emotions.
Yeah this girl wants this man bad she’s imagining him doing naughty things to her. all the .time!

Lincoln Nash
Now Head Coach to the Vegas Aces
Now finds himself face to face with the one woman he hasn’t gotten over.. years has past yet he stills have these feelings towards this woman that he shouldn’t being that she is the enemy of the family ..well his father..
now Jolene Bailey is looking more beautiful than ever and his need is only being ratchet up even more with her being in his presence so often.
He has a job to do.. but this woman is a walking distraction and he doesn’t know how long before he gives in to his needs for her.
yup Que the angst Que the stolen moments and Que the moment they will collide!
Yup and I’m all here for it!

Lisa Suzanne have a way of edging us in these series so of course we are left hanging and wanting more, so if you know you know that there’s a lot of angst frustration and spice before the end with a HEA!
But yup she’s so gonna stretch this one out but it’s gonna be so good,
Especially with two of the most amazingly talented narrators Samantha Brentmoor and Aaron Shedlock retelling this story, it’s going to be interesting and HOT !
Stay tuned.

A Passionate enemies-to-lovers romance set in Vegas! A sports correspondent and head coach reignite their teenage spark in this fast-paced, spicy read.

Rivalry is the first book in the Vegas Aces: The Coach series, which must be listened to in order.

Read/Listen if you love 💕
🤍Passionate enemies-to-lovers
🖤Football romance
🏈Family rivalry
🖤Second Chance romance
🤍Pro Football Head Coach
🏈single Mom
🤍Romeo &Juliet Vibes
🖤Emotional Roller Coaster
🏈Only one Bed
🤍Team Correspondent
————————🖤🤍🏈🤍🖤———————
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
Thanks for reading my review and POV of this ALC provided in part by ValentinePR and Author.
This is my honest opinion and am looking forward to listening to more in this series!
@Georgious_eleanorpb🦋

[Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lisa Suzanne is back with her newest Vegas Aces series, and this time its Vegas Aces: The Coach which has us focusing on newly appointed Coach Lincoln Nash.

Rivalry an Enemies to Lovers, Second Chance, Sports Romance that gives Romeo and Juliet vibes from the two feuding families and once star crossed lovers has us following newly appointed coach to the Aces Lincoln and Aces Correspondent reporter Jolene Bailey through their individual perspectives.

The narrative had Lisa laying down the foundation to what is the start of Lincoln and Jolene’s story that included their individual journeys. As well as the connection that brings them back together into each other’s lives given what we learn of their backstory, leading to a combined journey too.
Although a lot of it was alluded too, in order to keep the mystery alive whilst building on the suspense level that had you reading onwards.

Considering Rivalry is only the first book from Vegas Aces: The Coach series, Lisa was still able to give you a sufficient amount of the plot without giving too much away. Considering there are still 4 books to come.
From the countless tropes, on top of the many elements that helped with shaping the story, such as the usual drama, mystery, suspense. It’s kept you intrigued.
As well as from the characters of Lincoln and Jolene too.

The character development led to seeing Lincoln and Jolene slowly opening up to us from the first look we were given in exploring their characters.
With what was said, mentioned and revealed, it was enough to give us a feel for both of them. Learning about the type of people they were.
In Jolene’s case, she was presented as a strong, fierce and very determined single mom taking the bull by the horns when need it be. Yet still having a sweet, caring and loving side, mainly when it came to her son. As well as her parents and best friend Sam.
As for Lincoln, while he was strong and tough, he also displayed being a somewhat lost and tortured soul, courtesy of his past mistakes that still continued to haunt him.

Simultaneously the story also built on the relationship they shared, or in their case lack of one. Given the feuding between the two.
Though that didn’t stop Lisa for creating some hot moments between Lincoln and Jolene. Alongside awkwardness and tension too, given their coldness towards each other. Playing into their back and forth digs.
Ultimately bringing out an array of emotions to be feel and explore.

While Rivalry was a good enjoyable read, it did feel a little slow moving due to the lack of the excitement and pizazz it had me expecting given the storyline.
Then again it’s only the first book, so guess it could be said that it was to be somewhat expected.

Considering what happened in Rivalry and the way it ended, it has me curious to see where Lisa Suzanne will take Lincoln and Jolene’s story next in Play Call.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Thorunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The rivalry, the hate, the hurt, the love, and attraction is (almost) literally palpable. But that's usually the case with Lisa Suzanne, let's just be honest. And this new series, Vegas Aces: The Coach book #1, is no different.

Now, I normally do not torture myself by reading Lisa's books until the whole series is out. Because it's like a slow torture to have to wait for the next book. Trust me, I speak from plentiful experience on this. But I was the extremely grateful recipient of an ARC for this book (thank you very much) and even though I couldn't be happier about that, I'm over here cursing the fact that I have to now WAIT for more of Lincoln and Jolene! Ugh, the horror of it!

Lincoln and Jolene's story is... wow. You'll want to start their story with the free prequel which is so intense! Omg, my heart was aching and my blood pressure boiling because I too was pissed! So that said, I read that right before I dove into this book and I felt like I was LIVING both Jolene and Lincoln's thoughts and emotions. But that's what Lisa does to us! This is probably the fourth or fifth "series" of hers that I read (I say series because each couple's story usually takes 4 books) and I always have to mentally and emotionally prepare myself for a rollercoaster of feelings and emotions with the plot twists and turns. It's a lot! And I love every minute of it.

So here in book #1, we're just getting started, ladies! This is just the first little toe-dip into the water of the story that is Lincoln and Jolene - and Lisa, you better believe your fine pen-writing-ass that I'm counting down the days for books 2 through 4!!! I need them yesterday. Because we're just getting settled into who Jolene and Lincoln are in this book, and you've dropped some hints and easter eggs on us... and then it's over... "book 2 comes out..." is how you leave us. Not fair.

Lincoln just accepted the head coaching position with the Vegas Aces, Jolene just got the head correspondent position with the team. They haven't seen each other in 20 years, and that has been on purpose. Their families hate each other with all that has transpired. Jolene and Lincoln thought, they were simply collateral damage from their fathers' fallout. And now they are essentially forced together while still battling their own personal demons while the demons between the two of them are also thrown into the mix. It's a lot. Yet, they can't deny that the connection that they once had, it is still there. And then the book ends... GIVE ME BOOK 2 NOW, puhhh-leaseeeeee!!!! Because this is shaping up to quite possibly be my favorite Lisa Suzanne series starter!

[Jen Hooven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lincoln Nash and Jolene Bailey are two professionals doing their jobs. Lincoln is a former professional football player, now coach on an NFL team trying to get the job of his career - head coach for the Superbowl Champion Vegas Aces. Jolene Bailey is a reporter for the local news station. She's wanted to be the dedicated Aces correspondant since she started journalism school. Both Lincoln and Jolene are very good at their jobs, both are dedicated and both are incredibly passionate.
Twenty years ago Jolene and Lincoln were best friends, neighbors, and each other's first love. Then something happened. There was an incident. The Nashes stopped speaking to the Baileys and the blood between them is more bitter than any sports rivalry ever. Not even Philly fans booing Santa is as ugly as the situation between these two families.
The problem comes when Jolene and Lincoln get near each other again. That fire from 20 years ago hasn't died. But what do they do about it? This isn't a simple situation. They both have careers to think about. Not only would it look bad for the head coach to be dating a reporter (any sports reporter) it would be disastrous for these two families. As far as how this would affect Jolene, apart from her relationship with her family, it would destroy her credibility as a reporter and her reputation in general (we've seen what happens to women who don't behave how they're "supposed to" - those women are crucified). All her previous reporting would be called into question, she would be accused of sleeping her way to the top (and trading sexual favors for stories).
Those are all very good reasons for staying away from each other but Lincoln and Jolene are required to see each other almost daily. How will they work it out? What is the secret that tore these two (and their families) apart? Is Lincoln hot? (Well, that one is very easily answered without being a spoiler. Lisa Suzanne wrote this book and all her sports heroes are hotties.) This is a new series in the world of the Vegas Aces football team. If you've been following along with the story thus far, you know that the Aces just came off a Superbowl Championship and there have been some major changes in the organization. If this is your first foray into the Vegas Aces, welcome. You are totally welcome to read this book but I would suggest you start at the beginning with Home Game. (That way the name drops along the way aren't totally confusing).
I was gifted an advanced copy of this book.

[Savani · Rating 2 out of 5]

***WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILERS***

Lisa Suzanne’s *Rivalry* kicks off the *Vegas Aces: The Coach* series with a simmering blend of second-chance romance and workplace drama set against the high-stakes backdrop of professional football. The story intertwines the fiery chemistry between Lincoln Nash, a former football player turned coach, and Jolene Bailey, a tenacious journalist with a complicated history with him, resulting in a tale as thrilling as a last-second touchdown—though not without its fumbles.

Lincoln’s career transition from the field to the sideline is compelling, especially as he steps into the head coach role for the Vegas Aces. His professional ambitions are matched by the personal struggles he faces, particularly when his new position brings him face-to-face with Jolene. Their shared past is a storm cloud over their every interaction, rooted in a bitter family feud that casts a long shadow. Jolene’s determination to keep Lincoln from succeeding, while navigating her own career advancement, adds a layer of intrigue and tension that keeps the pages turning.

Suzanne excels in creating characters with depth and complexity. Lincoln is driven yet vulnerable, wrestling with his injury-forced retirement and his unresolved feelings for Jolene. Meanwhile, Jolene’s dedication to her son, Jonah, and her desire to prove herself professionally make her a relatable, layered heroine. Their shared moments are electric, filled with both longing and conflict, which builds toward a cliffhanger that leaves readers eager for the next book.

However, *Rivalry* isn’t without its shortcomings. The pacing occasionally falters, with some subplots—such as Lincoln’s interactions with his family and Jolene’s struggles with her ex—feeling underdeveloped. The central romance, while compelling, is sometimes overshadowed by the drama surrounding them, including workplace blackmail and unresolved family tensions. The ending, though intriguing, feels abrupt and leaves numerous threads dangling, which might frustrate readers who prefer a more self-contained narrative in series openers.

Fans of sports romances and enemies-to-lovers dynamics will find much to enjoy in *Rivalry*. The emotional stakes are high, and the chemistry between Lincoln and Jolene is undeniable, making it a strong start to the series. Just be prepared for an ending that teases more than it delivers—at least for now.

*Rivalry* delivers on drama and sparks but leaves readers craving more resolution and depth. I don't think I'll be continuing the series.

[Teresa Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rivalry by Lisa Suzanne is the first book in the Vegas Aces: The Coach Five book series. Think of it as a 5-part TV mini-series. I guarantee you will be hooked. A very qualified Lincoln Nash accepts the head coach position since Vegas Aces’ football previous lead football coach retired. Jolene Bailey has been promoted to being the Aces Correspondent reporter who works for VG03, a local news channel. Jolene and Lincoln were former next-door neighbors, childhood friends, and teenagers who were in love. When Jolene was 15, and Nash was 17, they became each other’s firsts in young love and passion expressed. Then, a horrible accident, or not an accident caused by Lincoln’s dad at a football practice that took Jolene’s dad out of playing pro football which tore the two teens apart. Lincoln broke it off with Jolene, which caused such damage that neither fully recovered. Fast forward twenty years later, and we have Jolene needing to become fast friends with her previous love without slapping him silly or kissing him. I love it when Jolene looks into Nash’s eyes, can no longer read him, and says, “It’s like a book in a language I no longer know the words to.” (page 65). Lincoln has no idea how to continue to fight his attraction to Jolene when they must work so closely together. Lincoln broods as he sees Jolene, “I am not sure I ever did fully get over what happened between us.” (page 68). But the Bailey’s and The Nash’s are at the crux of the family divide, where Lincoln and Jolene are thrust into a purgatory of love denial that they both desperately want out of. Passion overflows when Lincoln kisses Jolene at the sports complex and then just walks away. Book one ends with Jolene walking out into the main room, where she encounters another reporter, Ryan Rivera, who shows her pictures he has taken of her and Nash kissing as he threatens her with his information armed with picture proof. Lisa Suzanne is the cause of my love-hate relationship with her five-book sports romances. I love her books but hate waiting for the next book in a series I am addicted to reading. Each of the five books adds additional layers of drama and romance for the next book, ending in a crescendo in the final book with a HEA the reader will love.

[Susana Sousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beginning or.....not so much!

First, I'm going to start by saying that this is my very first read by Lisa Suzanne and I absolutely loved it and cannot wait to read more abour Lincoln and Jolene as well as going back and read the secondaries's in their story.

This might seem the beginning for our protagonists but their entanglement goes 20 years back to their adolescence and a pure and innocent first love.
Rivalry is the first installment in the Vegas Aces Series, The Coach, but only Jolene and Lincoln (and us, after reading this espisode) know how much weight such concept represents in their lives' cruise.

I loved the feel of the story developed in a way that could very well be real. Once friends turned foes, resented families and demaned choices represent a conflict that is not directly Lincoln and Jolenes's but imposed distance and oblivion and a great deal of sacrifice make them pivotal elements in a continuing quarrel never meant to be yielded.

Everything is well balenced in this narrative: bot Jolene and Lincoln find themeelves in the same circumstances regarding the 'situation'. Conflicting feelings due to respect, specially on Licoln's part, even questioning himself if such gesture is worth or not - he knows the truth and he knows the answer.... - but an innerent will to choose for themselves after 20 years of renouncing their sentiments, wants and the possibility to explore, finding one another face to face, in close quarters and about to work tpgether and, most of all, aknowledging that what started so many years ago is not even closely settled.
And, in all this family and internal drama, there is defiance, pushing buttons, testing jealousy, the effort of trying to razionalize their feelings, guess what goes in the other's head, witty remarks, bff counseling and so much longing desire......

Their working journey is about to start and I can't wait to see what tricks will fate produce to make them see that NOW is the moment!

Exciting read and great expectations!

[Heather Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can tell just from this first book I'm going to love this series. The amount of angst and drama is alluring, and the family feud is definitely giving Romeo and Juliet vibes.

Lincoln and Jolene used to be as close as possible. Their fathers played football together and were best friends, so they naturally hanged out with each other. Then somewhere along the way they started dating and everything seemed wonderful. They were each other's first and they loved one another, until an accident forced the families apart and Lincoln broke her heart. Now it's 20 years later and they both got the job of their dreams for the same football team and have to work together. But if the fire is still there, can they really keep it professional?

I love how much these characters are "real". Like in most romance novels the characters are just going about their life and then bam some issue and they fall in love, HEA. But with Lisa's books they have everyday problems with real issues. Lincoln is still trying to earn his father's approval, just to get the "I'm proud of you" from him. He's 36 and has lived his life for his dad, sacrificed so much for him and hasn't heard him ever say it. And Jolene got her heart broken, mere days after giving Lincoln something so sacred. Being a single mom is hard and she worked hard to get to where she is today, and being a woman in a field of all men is difficult. She knows she earned her spot but is still concerned if she got this position because who her family is.

After that cliffhanger of an ending, I'm excited to see where this story goes. Lincoln and Jolene are definitely far from over and it's only going to get spicer from here. They may "hate" each other and have to stick with their families because of the drama, but you can only fight that feeling for so long. Eventually those feelings have to explode...right?

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lisa Suzanne is starting a new dynasty for the Vegas Aces football team with the new series Vegas Aces: The Coach. Rivalry is technically the first book in this series but I also highly suggest tracking down the prequel to Lincoln and Jolene's saga- Penalty, because it really sets the stage for the disdain between them in this book.

I am already hooked on Lincoln Nash and Jolene Bailey's complicated relationship. A fall out between their families, secrets, hurt feelings and friendships broken- 20 years later the animosity is still strong. But much to their dismay so is the connection they felt when they were just two teenagers in love. Strained family relationships and new jobs are just the tip of why Jolene and Lincoln need to keep their distance but there is this magnetism that just keeps pulling them together and the tension is so consuming.

I can't wait to dive more into these characters. So much has happened over their time apart- Jolene has a son with a crappy co-parent while Lincoln has avoided all emotional attachments in general. I'm getting the sense that he's hiding something when it comes to the path his career has taken and Jolene is going to figure it out with her journalistic curiosity. I don't know when its going to come- but I just know that the secret Lincoln has been holding back for so long is going to come out and implode their worlds at some point so I'm going to be an anxious mess waiting for that bomb to drop.

And in true Lisa fashion with these multi-book stories, there are already complications and characters poised to be the thorns in my side as they reek havoc and cause all the roadblocks halting the HEA for these two. So be aware of the cliffhanger- they both wreck me and have me crawling back for more every time!

[Alicia M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

*****ARC*****

This book was a great starter to his entire series. Lincoln and Jolene are quite the enemies and I'm already loving it. You can see the forbiddenness because of their jobs for one but most importantly because of the family feud. The flirting and banter between them is already giving and I really like them.

I love the family dynamic for both, more so on Jolene's side. Her family is more supportive, especially her dad. She's a badass at her job and a badass mom. I mean she would do anything for that little one. I love her for that. I can see the rivalry between both families but I'm on Team Bailey ,no apologizes.

I can't wait to see more of these two, I'm really excited for the rest of the books and to see where this go because if what we got was so amazing already and the heat is all the way up, I can't wait to see what's to come.

For this book I'll give it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. I really want both Lincoln and Jolene to STOP! resisting what they both want. They have never stopped loving each other but they keep letting their family feud get in between them. And I get it, that's your family and you want to stay loyal to them but come on, you're that old, you have great careers, want to settle down, found each other again, and still holding back? No. They need to grow BIGGER balls; these two, yes both of them, have balls, they just need to be bigger, and start living the life THEY want. Also, I'm gonna need the true story to come out and for that to happen, Lincoln NEEDS to stand up to his dad.

Again, Team Bailey all the way!

Thanks to Grey's Promotion and Valentines PR for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing these amazing books. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤