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Norwalk Breakers #2
Second Down Fake: A Fake Dating Football Romance
As Norwalk Breakers' star quarterback, I'm used to pressure.
But nothing could prepare me for the media firestorm after my very public breakup. Now, sponsors are fleeing, and the fans are turning on me.
Enter Cassandra Barton. Her fiery free spirit might be exactly what my fractured public persona needs, and as my trainer’s little sister, she’s completely off limits.
But the more time we spend together, the more I don't want to keep her on the sidelines.
My life has been one giant "maybe later."
Maybe later on the career, maybe later on love. Maybe later has worked for me. Until Diego Salazar, superstar quarterback, scores a touchdown on my sense of adventure.
Pretend to date football’s most eligible bachelor? Yes, please.
He's everything I'm not - disciplined, focused, driven. And he’s making me think that “maybe later” could start right now.
Second Down Fake is a Norwalk Breakers football romance with a confident, cocky quarterback, a free-spirited Jill-of-all-trades, and a fake romance that feels all too real.
But nothing could prepare me for the media firestorm after my very public breakup. Now, sponsors are fleeing, and the fans are turning on me.
Enter Cassandra Barton. Her fiery free spirit might be exactly what my fractured public persona needs, and as my trainer’s little sister, she’s completely off limits.
But the more time we spend together, the more I don't want to keep her on the sidelines.
My life has been one giant "maybe later."
Maybe later on the career, maybe later on love. Maybe later has worked for me. Until Diego Salazar, superstar quarterback, scores a touchdown on my sense of adventure.
Pretend to date football’s most eligible bachelor? Yes, please.
He's everything I'm not - disciplined, focused, driven. And he’s making me think that “maybe later” could start right now.
Second Down Fake is a Norwalk Breakers football romance with a confident, cocky quarterback, a free-spirited Jill-of-all-trades, and a fake romance that feels all too real.
- GenresRomance
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 12, 2024
37 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 13, 2024
Diego, the male professional football player lead, has accidentally damaged his reputation. His agent suggests his next relationship be with someone low profile, not an actress or musician, even if he needs to fake it under contract.
Cassandra, the female lead, is in town helping her sister, Diego’s trainer, pack up to move. Though they met once before (First Down Fake), it didn’t get a chance to go anywhere. When Diego runs into Cassandra again, he’s determined to take a chance, even if it’s just her taking pity on him for a fake relationship.
But the more time they spend together, the less either of them is feeling fake emotions. But they’re under contract; Cassandra is understandably reluctant to be too involved with someone who may just be faking it and Diego doesn’t want to put undue pressure on her when she already doing so much more than her contract required…
This story is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy contemporary sports romance. I enjoyed and appreciated Cassandra’s relaxed approach to life and her willingness to see what adventures life threw her way. I sympathised with the concerns she felt from her family’s lack of comfort with her lifestyle. I enjoyed Diego’s contrasting approach to life, with goals and plans, that she was willing to engage with playfully. I appreciated the balance they gave each other. I enjoyed the relationship development and understood the advance and retreat of their intimate relationship. I enjoyed the secondary characters and their valuable support.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Cassandra, the female lead, is in town helping her sister, Diego’s trainer, pack up to move. Though they met once before (First Down Fake), it didn’t get a chance to go anywhere. When Diego runs into Cassandra again, he’s determined to take a chance, even if it’s just her taking pity on him for a fake relationship.
But the more time they spend together, the less either of them is feeling fake emotions. But they’re under contract; Cassandra is understandably reluctant to be too involved with someone who may just be faking it and Diego doesn’t want to put undue pressure on her when she already doing so much more than her contract required…
This story is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy contemporary sports romance. I enjoyed and appreciated Cassandra’s relaxed approach to life and her willingness to see what adventures life threw her way. I sympathised with the concerns she felt from her family’s lack of comfort with her lifestyle. I enjoyed Diego’s contrasting approach to life, with goals and plans, that she was willing to engage with playfully. I appreciated the balance they gave each other. I enjoyed the relationship development and understood the advance and retreat of their intimate relationship. I enjoyed the secondary characters and their valuable support.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
June 15, 2024
I loved the Franklin Notch series by Sarah Everly and have been looking forward to this new series.I was not dissappointed.Loved Diego and Cassandra.
Diego needs to sort out his image after his very public disastrous break up.His agent and coach are not happy.
Cassandra has moved to Norwalk for a couple of months.Cassandra and Diego met each other years ago.When their paths cross again the chemistry between them is still there.
Diego needs a fake girlfriend and Cassandra agrees to help him.Problem he has feelings for her also she is Diego's trainer's little sister and off limits.
Her sister is not happy with the arrangement.
As they start to spend time together they cross the line of fake and real.They also give into their attraction to each other.
Cassandra doesn't think she is good enough for Diego.Diego wants a real relationship with Cassandra.
Their hearts end up getting involved and there is heartbreak ahead.
They get to their very satisfying happily ever after.
Absolutely loved this romance with lots of laughter,team banter,family,friendships,
tears,steam,romance and a happily ever after.
Love the Norwalk breakers and i hope all the guys get their own story.
I recieved an ARC of this book for free from Sarah Everly and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Diego needs to sort out his image after his very public disastrous break up.His agent and coach are not happy.
Cassandra has moved to Norwalk for a couple of months.Cassandra and Diego met each other years ago.When their paths cross again the chemistry between them is still there.
Diego needs a fake girlfriend and Cassandra agrees to help him.Problem he has feelings for her also she is Diego's trainer's little sister and off limits.
Her sister is not happy with the arrangement.
As they start to spend time together they cross the line of fake and real.They also give into their attraction to each other.
Cassandra doesn't think she is good enough for Diego.Diego wants a real relationship with Cassandra.
Their hearts end up getting involved and there is heartbreak ahead.
They get to their very satisfying happily ever after.
Absolutely loved this romance with lots of laughter,team banter,family,friendships,
tears,steam,romance and a happily ever after.
Love the Norwalk breakers and i hope all the guys get their own story.
I recieved an ARC of this book for free from Sarah Everly and am voluntarily leaving my review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2024
I absolutely devoured this book in one afternoon! Diego and Cassandra are all-consuming with their storyline giving you plenty of laughs and fake relationship that quickly turns real with plenty of emotions.
These two crossed paths a few years ago, so they don’t have to build the relationship completely from scratch. Cassandra is exactly the picture of who Diego needs to be seen with to turn his reputation around and regain the trust of both fans and sponsors. Cassandra has a need for adventure and Diego is exactly that. I love how they balance each other with a bit of opposites attract energy.
One of my favorite aspects is how Cassandra helps Diego find that adventurous side within himself. In turn, Diego provides a stable, secure foundation for helping her find confidence in herself, decisions, and a peace with her family’s judgments of her lifestyle. As their relationship deepens, you can’t help but want them to admit that this fake relationship has always been completely real.
I recommend reading First Down Fake and Sidelined to get a little bit of background, but this was easily read as a standalone.
These two crossed paths a few years ago, so they don’t have to build the relationship completely from scratch. Cassandra is exactly the picture of who Diego needs to be seen with to turn his reputation around and regain the trust of both fans and sponsors. Cassandra has a need for adventure and Diego is exactly that. I love how they balance each other with a bit of opposites attract energy.
One of my favorite aspects is how Cassandra helps Diego find that adventurous side within himself. In turn, Diego provides a stable, secure foundation for helping her find confidence in herself, decisions, and a peace with her family’s judgments of her lifestyle. As their relationship deepens, you can’t help but want them to admit that this fake relationship has always been completely real.
I recommend reading First Down Fake and Sidelined to get a little bit of background, but this was easily read as a standalone.
June 13, 2024
Second Down Fake is a contemporary sports romance by Sarah Everly. This is the 2nd book in the Norwalk Breakers series, but it can be read as a standalone. This is a quick and easy read with a happily ever after that will leave you wanting to pick up the next story in this series!
Cassie and Diego's story started in the prequel, First Down Fake. They spent an evening together at a college party and go their separate ways. Although Diego wanted to stay in contact, Cassie refused because she always had a crush on him. Fast forward five years, and they find each other in a fake relationship, the whole while trying to fight the feelings they have for each other.
Diego might be a player, but I adore him in this story. I love his banter with Cassie and his teammates. This book is filled with so many sweet moments with him, and I can't help but want more of him! This is the perfect romance to snuggle up with on a lazy afternoon! If you haven't read any books in this series, you really need to do that now. They are sweet, spicy, and heartfelt!
Cassie and Diego's story started in the prequel, First Down Fake. They spent an evening together at a college party and go their separate ways. Although Diego wanted to stay in contact, Cassie refused because she always had a crush on him. Fast forward five years, and they find each other in a fake relationship, the whole while trying to fight the feelings they have for each other.
Diego might be a player, but I adore him in this story. I love his banter with Cassie and his teammates. This book is filled with so many sweet moments with him, and I can't help but want more of him! This is the perfect romance to snuggle up with on a lazy afternoon! If you haven't read any books in this series, you really need to do that now. They are sweet, spicy, and heartfelt!
June 2, 2024
Cassandra and Diego spent a magical night at a party years ago. Now they meet again and since Diego needs a fake girlfriend for publicity reasons and there still is attraction between them Cassie is the obvious choice. But the more time they spend together the more feelings develop - but can this relationship be real?
This was a delightful book that had charming and relatable characters and an entertaining storyline. If you have read the first book in the Norfolk Breaker series you will get an update on Lena and Noa and some other characters from the book "Sidelined", but the book is just as enjoyable as a stand-alone. I has fun reading this book and am already looking forward to the next book in the series. I hope Rob's story will get told soon.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a delightful book that had charming and relatable characters and an entertaining storyline. If you have read the first book in the Norfolk Breaker series you will get an update on Lena and Noa and some other characters from the book "Sidelined", but the book is just as enjoyable as a stand-alone. I has fun reading this book and am already looking forward to the next book in the series. I hope Rob's story will get told soon.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2025
I enjoyed this book. I was surprised how quickly Diego was so drawn and into Cassandra. I wish they gave Cassandra a little more insecurities about Diego’s past relationships and his track record of losing interest in women during the season. The author made a it point to mention he formerly dated a lot of women, especially during the football
Season and then dumped them after. I wonder what made Cassie different than the others? The author also never mentioned a “passion” that she would
End up finding as a career.. I guess it is just inferred that she would continue doing multiple small jobs? As I said, I enjoyed the book but I wish it had answered more questions.
Season and then dumped them after. I wonder what made Cassie different than the others? The author also never mentioned a “passion” that she would
End up finding as a career.. I guess it is just inferred that she would continue doing multiple small jobs? As I said, I enjoyed the book but I wish it had answered more questions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2024
I loved Diego and Cassandra, especially together. Cassandra is a free spirit and loves her life even if her family doesn’t understand her. Diego has been known to be a playboy, but he doesn’t come off that way to me. He is wholly devoted to Cassandra and desperately wants their relationship to be real. The other characters on the team are fun to follow and I look forward to reading their stories. I highly recommend reading the novella First Down Fake before this. It’s a fantastic prequel to this story about Diego and Cassandra’s first meeting four years ago.
June 12, 2024
Nothing fake about this gem. To redeem his image, Diego needs the public to see him with a ‘normal’ girl and not one constantly in the public eye. Seeing as he has had a soft spot for Cassandra since meeting her a few years ago, faking feelings for her is not a chore. Cassie is a free spirit who has been hurt by the fact that her family doesn’t understand her nature but through this fake relationship Diego helps her realize her worth. Humor, romance and spice make for a delightful journey to an ending that will leave you with a smile on your face.
June 12, 2024
OMG 😱 this was another fantastic story about Cassandra and Diego's relationship. I was on the edge of tears with humor and on my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. The chemistry and physical attraction between them was sensational of passion and romance. Spicy and passionate of love for one another. Was this true love and affection with them.
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
June 16, 2024
Such a great book, I was completely captivated by the storyline and didn’t put it down until the very last word.
I loved the banter and humour in this book, I found myself laughing out loud numerous times.the relationship blossoms from fake to them finding connection and love. The story is written with such detail and emotion, the chemistry was off the charts.
Overall this is a beautifully written book that I thoroughly enjoyed, can’t wait to read more from this author.
I loved the banter and humour in this book, I found myself laughing out loud numerous times.the relationship blossoms from fake to them finding connection and love. The story is written with such detail and emotion, the chemistry was off the charts.
Overall this is a beautifully written book that I thoroughly enjoyed, can’t wait to read more from this author.
June 13, 2024
Fantastic sport romance!
I loved this story and couldn't put it down! The back-and-forth banter between Diego and Cassandra was hilarious. They are both lovable characters, and they were so incredibly perfect for each other. They had a wonderful connection and chemistry, and I enjoyed watching as their relationship turned real. This has become my favorite Sarah Everly book!
I loved this story and couldn't put it down! The back-and-forth banter between Diego and Cassandra was hilarious. They are both lovable characters, and they were so incredibly perfect for each other. They had a wonderful connection and chemistry, and I enjoyed watching as their relationship turned real. This has become my favorite Sarah Everly book!
June 29, 2024
A quick and easy HEA second chance romance. Cassandra and Diego had a magical night in college, but they went in different directions, now 5 years later and their about to fake it.
Humor, romance and spice.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Humor, romance and spice.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 24, 2024
"Maybe After The Season" Again
So when does Cassandra stop these toxic people pushing back her life ans making her a muse?
He sent her away.
Shes a person or a totem, can't be both.
Sounds like a totem for if the popular boy finally gave empty, substanceless attention to the unseen, unsexed and unloved wallflower sex doll
So when does Cassandra stop these toxic people pushing back her life ans making her a muse?
He sent her away.
Shes a person or a totem, can't be both.
Sounds like a totem for if the popular boy finally gave empty, substanceless attention to the unseen, unsexed and unloved wallflower sex doll
August 3, 2024
Very light spicy romance between Cassandra, an easy going renaissance woman and Diego, first string professional football quarterback. I like Cassandras spirit and ability to adapt and not let others define her. The scene in New Hampshire felt rushed and a bit incomplete. There are a few minor editorial changes but that doesn't detract from the story.
June 26, 2024
Sarah Everly’s "Second Down Fake" is a captivating tale that blends humour, romance, and emotional depth. From the start, Cassandra and Diego's story draws you in with their palpable chemistry and engaging relationship. Cassandra's free spirit and Diego's disciplined nature create a dynamic that is both entertaining and heartfelt. The "fake romance" trope is executed perfectly, mixing humour, tension, and genuine emotion seamlessly.
Mila's interactions with Cici, Lena, Diego, Noa, and Rob add warmth and joy, enhancing the story's charm. Everly’s engaging writing style and well-paced plot make it hard to put the book down. Themes of personal growth, love, and living in the moment are woven seamlessly into the narrative.
"Second Down Fake" is more than a romance novel; it’s about finding genuine connection amid life's pressures. Diego's journey from a pressured star quarterback to discovering true love with Cassie is beautifully portrayed, and Cassie's embrace of her free spirit despite familial misunderstandings is equally compelling.
This book is a true page-turner and my favourite Sarah Everly book so far. The hilarious banter and undeniable chemistry between Diego and Cassie make their relationship a joy to witness.
Sarah Everly’s talent for creating relatable characters and compelling storylines is commendable. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable read.
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I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily reviewing.
Mila's interactions with Cici, Lena, Diego, Noa, and Rob add warmth and joy, enhancing the story's charm. Everly’s engaging writing style and well-paced plot make it hard to put the book down. Themes of personal growth, love, and living in the moment are woven seamlessly into the narrative.
"Second Down Fake" is more than a romance novel; it’s about finding genuine connection amid life's pressures. Diego's journey from a pressured star quarterback to discovering true love with Cassie is beautifully portrayed, and Cassie's embrace of her free spirit despite familial misunderstandings is equally compelling.
This book is a true page-turner and my favourite Sarah Everly book so far. The hilarious banter and undeniable chemistry between Diego and Cassie make their relationship a joy to witness.
Sarah Everly’s talent for creating relatable characters and compelling storylines is commendable. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable read.
--
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily reviewing.
September 1, 2025
Cute story. Loved the characters. Great tension. Typos and timeline consistency are issues in this book. For Cassie’s first game: “I woke up late on Saturday morning, blearily turning off the alarm and peeling my body out of bed. Lena had picked me up promptly at one, her former roommate, Cici, in tow.” Ok so it’s Saturday. (Most NFL games are on Sunday.) But then the next day should be Sunday. Cassie and Diego are making plans the day after the game, for the next day, but they mention that tomorrow is Tuesday not Monday. So the game was Sunday, not Saturday. I know this is maybe little things to notice but it takes me out of the story trying to keep up with what is going on.
December 19, 2024
Sara Everly never disappoints. I LOVE this book.
January 26, 2025
Loved the story with Diego and Cassie. You can tell they have real chemistry. I would love to see what happens with the next season for them.
July 23, 2025
I liked this one actually a lot more than the first of the series. The writing seemed to get a lot more mature and smoother. The characters were so funny and charismatic, I immediately found myself sucked into their story. I loved the chemistry between these two, and how genuine and easy they fell in love. This story was less than 300 pages, but somehow their love didn’t feel rushed at all. This was such a cute, easy, fun sports romance book and I had a good time.
December 25, 2024
I absolutely love Cassie and Diego's story. It is filled with so much fun.
Cassandra is such a strong character, who lives life on her own terms.
Diego found himself in a spot of media trouble that needed fixing.
A steamy meeting 5 years ago and a chance meeting in a car park, leads to them coming together to try to mend his image...only feelings develop and chemistry builds.
They both want more than the contract that was signed, but will a misunderstanding prevent them getting their HEA?
Give it a read to find out.
Cassandra is such a strong character, who lives life on her own terms.
Diego found himself in a spot of media trouble that needed fixing.
A steamy meeting 5 years ago and a chance meeting in a car park, leads to them coming together to try to mend his image...only feelings develop and chemistry builds.
They both want more than the contract that was signed, but will a misunderstanding prevent them getting their HEA?
Give it a read to find out.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews