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Love and #1
Love and Other Goals
If you fail to plan, you plan to fail…right??
Lana Grant’s goal is too important to risk failing, so she’s formulated an iron-clad plan to get to where she wants to be—changing the world as an immigration lawyer, just like her mother.
She’s spent all of high school and college ticking off boxes toward her future, aided by the support of her family, sorority friends, and campus ministry group. She hopes her recent summer internship will be the final factor that makes her law school application stand out in the stack. Now, all Lana needs is for her long-time crush to finally confess his love and her dream future can become a reality.
Lana thinks she has the dominoes all lined up—that is, until the captain of the soccer team, Mateo Alvarez, asks her to coffee and throws a very unexpected wrench into her plans.
With senior year responsibilities and law school deadlines looming, Lana balances her relationships with her best friends and new boyfriend while still pursuing that all-encompassing life goal. But what happens when unforeseen circumstances turn things upside down and her well-planned future threatens to unravel? How will Lana choose which goals to fight for?
Love and Other Goals is a college soccer romance for fans of swoon-worthy but meaningful contemporary romance. Readers who appreciate seeing faith elements woven into characters’ lives will especially love this story. You’ll find all the heart-melting, feet-kicking moments with zero explicit content in this closed-door, kisses only romance.
Content Warning: Brief mention of opioid addiction, miscarriage, and child loss in side characters. Contains references to the ramifications of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Romance spice level is sweet, swoony kisses only.
Lana Grant’s goal is too important to risk failing, so she’s formulated an iron-clad plan to get to where she wants to be—changing the world as an immigration lawyer, just like her mother.
She’s spent all of high school and college ticking off boxes toward her future, aided by the support of her family, sorority friends, and campus ministry group. She hopes her recent summer internship will be the final factor that makes her law school application stand out in the stack. Now, all Lana needs is for her long-time crush to finally confess his love and her dream future can become a reality.
Lana thinks she has the dominoes all lined up—that is, until the captain of the soccer team, Mateo Alvarez, asks her to coffee and throws a very unexpected wrench into her plans.
With senior year responsibilities and law school deadlines looming, Lana balances her relationships with her best friends and new boyfriend while still pursuing that all-encompassing life goal. But what happens when unforeseen circumstances turn things upside down and her well-planned future threatens to unravel? How will Lana choose which goals to fight for?
Love and Other Goals is a college soccer romance for fans of swoon-worthy but meaningful contemporary romance. Readers who appreciate seeing faith elements woven into characters’ lives will especially love this story. You’ll find all the heart-melting, feet-kicking moments with zero explicit content in this closed-door, kisses only romance.
Content Warning: Brief mention of opioid addiction, miscarriage, and child loss in side characters. Contains references to the ramifications of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Romance spice level is sweet, swoony kisses only.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2024
99 people are currently reading
1117 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
August 30, 2024
Read if you love:
Clean sports romance (kisses only)
He falls first
Faith elements
Strong girl group
Love letters
This was such a sweet and swoony college soccer romance! I enjoyed the college atmosphere, the characters, and how the story depicted healthy friendships and relationships. The faith elements interwoven throughout the story were prominent without being over the top and were so well done. I loved the friendship dynamics between Lana, Teegan, and Amaya. They were so supportive in the way they lifted each other, were always there for each other, and rooting each other. The romance between Mateo and Lana is adorable and truly Mateo is sweet, kind, and respectful from the very beginning, a character, and real gem you quickly grow to love. As someone who played soccer for 10 years, I loved the dynamic between Mateo and Lana when it came to playing, discussing, and watching soccer it was one of my favorite parts of the book! I also just loved Tracy's writing style and storytelling, she pulls you right in where you don't want to put the book down!
I highly recommend and cannot wait to read more books by Tracy in the future.💜
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: No language, swoony kisses only. Past miscarriage and opioid addiction in side characters. Discussion of consequences surrounding the US troops pulling out of Afghanistan.
Clean sports romance (kisses only)
He falls first
Faith elements
Strong girl group
Love letters
This was such a sweet and swoony college soccer romance! I enjoyed the college atmosphere, the characters, and how the story depicted healthy friendships and relationships. The faith elements interwoven throughout the story were prominent without being over the top and were so well done. I loved the friendship dynamics between Lana, Teegan, and Amaya. They were so supportive in the way they lifted each other, were always there for each other, and rooting each other. The romance between Mateo and Lana is adorable and truly Mateo is sweet, kind, and respectful from the very beginning, a character, and real gem you quickly grow to love. As someone who played soccer for 10 years, I loved the dynamic between Mateo and Lana when it came to playing, discussing, and watching soccer it was one of my favorite parts of the book! I also just loved Tracy's writing style and storytelling, she pulls you right in where you don't want to put the book down!
I highly recommend and cannot wait to read more books by Tracy in the future.💜
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: No language, swoony kisses only. Past miscarriage and opioid addiction in side characters. Discussion of consequences surrounding the US troops pulling out of Afghanistan.
June 29, 2024
5 stars
I think this is my favorite romcom to date, for sure the swoony-est. The way Tracy made the characters THE MOST relatable had me drawing on my own fond memories of college. Anyone that’s been involved in a student ministry will have an instant connection to this storyline.
The characters were real, like people I’d want to hang out with and friends I’d want to have in college. I saw bit and pieces of myself, my college roommates, and my college flings *cough* Aaron *cough* in the characters. I have multiple journals worth of melodramatic worry and young adult angst that made me feel completely seen by the female main character. The struggles and fears were real and appropriate for the characters’ life stages and I absolutely admired how healthy all the relationships were. No toxicity to be found in the friend group and no reproach to be sniffed in the love interest.
Additionally, I loved how the Christianity aspect and faith components weren’t overdone and cheesy, the setting and extracurricular activities the characters were involved in made it all seem like a natural part of the narrative. The swoon factor was off the charts and I silly grinned my way through the majority of the book. Only singing the highest praises for this romcom!
Content: no language, swoony kisses only. Past miscarriage and opioid addiction in side characters. Discussion of consequences surrounding the US troops pulling out of Afghanistan.
I think this is my favorite romcom to date, for sure the swoony-est. The way Tracy made the characters THE MOST relatable had me drawing on my own fond memories of college. Anyone that’s been involved in a student ministry will have an instant connection to this storyline.
The characters were real, like people I’d want to hang out with and friends I’d want to have in college. I saw bit and pieces of myself, my college roommates, and my college flings *cough* Aaron *cough* in the characters. I have multiple journals worth of melodramatic worry and young adult angst that made me feel completely seen by the female main character. The struggles and fears were real and appropriate for the characters’ life stages and I absolutely admired how healthy all the relationships were. No toxicity to be found in the friend group and no reproach to be sniffed in the love interest.
Additionally, I loved how the Christianity aspect and faith components weren’t overdone and cheesy, the setting and extracurricular activities the characters were involved in made it all seem like a natural part of the narrative. The swoon factor was off the charts and I silly grinned my way through the majority of the book. Only singing the highest praises for this romcom!
Content: no language, swoony kisses only. Past miscarriage and opioid addiction in side characters. Discussion of consequences surrounding the US troops pulling out of Afghanistan.
July 31, 2025
Aww...another YA type by a new author I have bought, read, and now supported as possible to help them while checking it too. I try give them a try and then exposure per say to aid them in their writing journey.
It was a lovely young adult contemporary rom-com I suppose/romance with lots of wonderful spiritual aspects that makes it impressive and one that's worth recommending to anyone else.! I 'm not in that category as the fmc was a 22 year old and I have a daughter that age but it was amusing as I stated I like to check those out for curiousity as well. She was sensible enough at times but naive as in a flirtationship basically for a few years; Honey...if he hasn't asked you by then, he isn't! The hot headed reaction she expressed near the end made me shake my head and laugh in a sense as having my own 22 year old act that way at times so it was partly relatable! ha....of course without a conflict, there wouldn't be as much of a story naturally.
There were pop culture references here and there and also with Christian elements besides. It was likeable tale overall with a happily ever after :) I would more by this author yes....
It was a lovely young adult contemporary rom-com I suppose/romance with lots of wonderful spiritual aspects that makes it impressive and one that's worth recommending to anyone else.! I 'm not in that category as the fmc was a 22 year old and I have a daughter that age but it was amusing as I stated I like to check those out for curiousity as well. She was sensible enough at times but naive as in a flirtationship basically for a few years; Honey...if he hasn't asked you by then, he isn't! The hot headed reaction she expressed near the end made me shake my head and laugh in a sense as having my own 22 year old act that way at times so it was partly relatable! ha....of course without a conflict, there wouldn't be as much of a story naturally.
There were pop culture references here and there and also with Christian elements besides. It was likeable tale overall with a happily ever after :) I would more by this author yes....
June 15, 2024
Rating this as a much younger version of myself. What a lovely YA Christian romance. Younger me swooned on several occasions, older me is loving that my teen has access to some wholesome swoony romances.
This brought me back to that awkward time of life navigating through boys I thought I liked, not wanting to waste time with boys who I couldn't see myself with in the future.
I loved all of the MCs and SCs, the messy thinking, insecurities, jealousies, friendships felt very real to life (this may not be the case for people outside of Christianity)
Included in this novel are background themes of drinking, frat parties, death, drugs and addiction, social injustice, immigration and asylum seekers. The main theme for me is navigating all of these other themes through a Christian young adult perspective.
This book isn't going to be for everyone, the faith aspects are at the forefront but there is truly a lovely special romance on these pages. A reminder that your person can be found at a young age and the God is control, life doesn't always go according to plan.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This brought me back to that awkward time of life navigating through boys I thought I liked, not wanting to waste time with boys who I couldn't see myself with in the future.
I loved all of the MCs and SCs, the messy thinking, insecurities, jealousies, friendships felt very real to life (this may not be the case for people outside of Christianity)
Included in this novel are background themes of drinking, frat parties, death, drugs and addiction, social injustice, immigration and asylum seekers. The main theme for me is navigating all of these other themes through a Christian young adult perspective.
This book isn't going to be for everyone, the faith aspects are at the forefront but there is truly a lovely special romance on these pages. A reminder that your person can be found at a young age and the God is control, life doesn't always go according to plan.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
June 22, 2024
ARC review
Okay can I start by say thank you so much to Tracy Baack for letting be apart of the ARC Team!!!
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy: 0 /🌶️ just kissing but that is it
Now to the book review OMG WHAT LOOK FOR WHEN READING THIS BOOK
- He falls FIRST
- College romance
- The MMC is a cinnamon roll and kinda golden retriever vibes
- mentions of faith and both MMC and FMC love Jesus ✝️
- MMC captain of the soccer team ⚽️ 🥅
- FMC goal driven 🥅
Lana is such a relatable character for me I am a college student myself and I am alway doing things that will make my resume look better soooo I get Lana in doing things out of your comfort zone. I related a lot to Lana especially her being a planner and having her life details to the point i understand her because I am the same. Then we have Mateo which love the name. Mateo falls first for Lana and now they have to see if their plans and future will work and they go through this wonderful journey. As well will their faith become stronger?
Ahh I loved Mateo he is added to the book boyfriends list for me he makes her playlist LOVES TO WRITE LOVE LETTERS LIKE OMG HE IS A ROMANTIC!!!!! And my favorite part of all he gives her a jersey with HIS NAME ON IT OMG !!
My first book that had faith in it if you aren’t religious it okay but the plot is good and I get it is Christian faith and I am Catholic but I love it highly recommend.
Love and other goals comes out June 27 you will love it 🥰💜💜⚽️⚽️⚽️🥅🥅🥅
Okay can I start by say thank you so much to Tracy Baack for letting be apart of the ARC Team!!!
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy: 0 /🌶️ just kissing but that is it
Now to the book review OMG WHAT LOOK FOR WHEN READING THIS BOOK
- He falls FIRST
- College romance
- The MMC is a cinnamon roll and kinda golden retriever vibes
- mentions of faith and both MMC and FMC love Jesus ✝️
- MMC captain of the soccer team ⚽️ 🥅
- FMC goal driven 🥅
Lana is such a relatable character for me I am a college student myself and I am alway doing things that will make my resume look better soooo I get Lana in doing things out of your comfort zone. I related a lot to Lana especially her being a planner and having her life details to the point i understand her because I am the same. Then we have Mateo which love the name. Mateo falls first for Lana and now they have to see if their plans and future will work and they go through this wonderful journey. As well will their faith become stronger?
Ahh I loved Mateo he is added to the book boyfriends list for me he makes her playlist LOVES TO WRITE LOVE LETTERS LIKE OMG HE IS A ROMANTIC!!!!! And my favorite part of all he gives her a jersey with HIS NAME ON IT OMG !!
My first book that had faith in it if you aren’t religious it okay but the plot is good and I get it is Christian faith and I am Catholic but I love it highly recommend.
Love and other goals comes out June 27 you will love it 🥰💜💜⚽️⚽️⚽️🥅🥅🥅
April 14, 2025
Thank you to Tracy & the publishers for this ARC Copy!
Closed-door romance, He Falls First, emotional intelligence...read this book if you love this type of content!
Lana & Mateo are driven college students, both very family & faith centered. She is a justice-driven, pre-law high achiever & he is a student athlete soccer star! I read many types of books & many romance books. I would have to describe this book as "CHILL." The closed-door romance, the faith basis, allow this book to truly lower your blood pressure. The characters are unbelievably likeable and the romance flows naturally but leaves these little mini-surprises along the way to find. I read this book slowly just to keep it going, TBH! It also reminds me of college when you start dating someone and then (due to college campus/classes/after class activities) you literally see them EVERY DAY, so in a way, the pacing of the relationship actually fit the university on-campus setting! The TSwift nuggets were such little gems to find, also! Such a warm, fun summer read for anyone who loves sports and is either in college or had such a great time making lifelong friends & romance while pursuing their dreams!! Well done, Tracy!
Closed-door romance, He Falls First, emotional intelligence...read this book if you love this type of content!
Lana & Mateo are driven college students, both very family & faith centered. She is a justice-driven, pre-law high achiever & he is a student athlete soccer star! I read many types of books & many romance books. I would have to describe this book as "CHILL." The closed-door romance, the faith basis, allow this book to truly lower your blood pressure. The characters are unbelievably likeable and the romance flows naturally but leaves these little mini-surprises along the way to find. I read this book slowly just to keep it going, TBH! It also reminds me of college when you start dating someone and then (due to college campus/classes/after class activities) you literally see them EVERY DAY, so in a way, the pacing of the relationship actually fit the university on-campus setting! The TSwift nuggets were such little gems to find, also! Such a warm, fun summer read for anyone who loves sports and is either in college or had such a great time making lifelong friends & romance while pursuing their dreams!! Well done, Tracy!
June 27, 2024
Ok so romance is not my genre. I have never met a romance book I've liked. Until now. I truly was pleasantly surprised by how much I got caught up in the characters and the story of Lana and Mateo. I loved how the author showed how magical a dating relationship can be written without pushing the characters into a purely physical relationship.
I found myself goofy grinning at times and reminiscing about how special the early days of dating my husband were.
I highly recommend this closed door, faith based romance book. Zero spice but so much heart!
Special thanks to the author Tracy Baack for the ARC copy. All opinions are purely my own.
I found myself goofy grinning at times and reminiscing about how special the early days of dating my husband were.
I highly recommend this closed door, faith based romance book. Zero spice but so much heart!
Special thanks to the author Tracy Baack for the ARC copy. All opinions are purely my own.
December 7, 2024
LOAG was so nostalgic for me!! I started dating my husband in college so it felt very real. I enjoyed the dynamic between the main characters and I appreciate so much that this is a clean romance! They’re so hard to find and I’d feel comfortable recommending this to teens from my church, my MIL, my grandma, etc. There are definite strong faith themes so if that’s not up your alley, maybe pass, but I thought it was great! Especially for a debut novel 🫶🏼 Great work, Tracy!!
July 5, 2024
There are some stories that settle in your heart in the most comforting way and feel like a giant hug… this book was definitely one of them!
This sweet coming of age story highlights a time in life that is most tender and precious— a time of growing up and spreading your wings, figuring out who you are and what you want in life. It’s a little scary and oh so exciting all at the same time. It’s also the newness and shyness of that first date, discovering a mutual attraction and starting a new relationship. It’s just all so good!
💜What I loved… (bear with me, there’s a lot!)
🏫 College campus, sorority, and student ministry life
👯♀️Girl besties/tribe
📝 Lana’s journaling and pouring over Psalm 62
👩❤️👨He falls first, he falls hard
☕️ He’s been studying her (he knows her likes/dislikes)
💞Supportive, happy parents on both sides! (This is refreshing!)
❤️🔥Physical boundaries set by MMC
✝️Faith in Christ strongly displayed and lived out
💌Love notes
🎹 The piano music gift
📸 The photo lol… (iykyk)
⚽️ Rules of soccer broken down
💜Kansas and….
🧤 Hart, Michigan location (love when my home state is in a story!)
⚖️Learning about the law and immigration specifically regarding families in Afghanistan
💋 Their first kiss!
It was really exciting to read Tracy’s debut novel… if you don’t already, go over to her account and give her a follow. She is the most genuine and kind person! And you will definitely fall in love with Lana & Mateo’s love story like I did this summer! This is a perfect book for the teen girl in your life, as well.
Content: closed door, no language. Brief mention of miscarriage in the past and opioid addiction in a side character. Immigration law and discussions concerning Afghanistan
This sweet coming of age story highlights a time in life that is most tender and precious— a time of growing up and spreading your wings, figuring out who you are and what you want in life. It’s a little scary and oh so exciting all at the same time. It’s also the newness and shyness of that first date, discovering a mutual attraction and starting a new relationship. It’s just all so good!
💜What I loved… (bear with me, there’s a lot!)
🏫 College campus, sorority, and student ministry life
👯♀️Girl besties/tribe
📝 Lana’s journaling and pouring over Psalm 62
👩❤️👨He falls first, he falls hard
☕️ He’s been studying her (he knows her likes/dislikes)
💞Supportive, happy parents on both sides! (This is refreshing!)
❤️🔥Physical boundaries set by MMC
✝️Faith in Christ strongly displayed and lived out
💌Love notes
🎹 The piano music gift
📸 The photo lol… (iykyk)
⚽️ Rules of soccer broken down
💜Kansas and….
🧤 Hart, Michigan location (love when my home state is in a story!)
⚖️Learning about the law and immigration specifically regarding families in Afghanistan
💋 Their first kiss!
It was really exciting to read Tracy’s debut novel… if you don’t already, go over to her account and give her a follow. She is the most genuine and kind person! And you will definitely fall in love with Lana & Mateo’s love story like I did this summer! This is a perfect book for the teen girl in your life, as well.
Content: closed door, no language. Brief mention of miscarriage in the past and opioid addiction in a side character. Immigration law and discussions concerning Afghanistan
June 17, 2024
If I could give this sweet book more than five stars I would!! Reading LAOG was like a warm hug! It was a look into college life that I never got to experience. The campus ministry, the Bible studies, the soccer games (and explanations) and sorority activities, all of it was so fun to read!
The love that blossomed over the course of this book between Mateo and Lana made me literally tear up. Tracy, you already experienced my blubbering, lol. Mateo’s dedication to Lana and all those he loves is SO beautiful to watch play out. Lana’s passion for people and drive to help those in need had me cheering for her and feel inspired so often throughout this book.
I love that Psalm 62 is a running theme through this book and an ever present reminder that ultimately God is our refuge and our fortress in times of trouble.
Some things I loved (in no particular order): The Beefs!!! (Teegs especially 🩷)The Harry Potter room, the absolute sweetheart that is Mateo, delicious slushies, and the loving family elements.
Love and Other Goals releases on June 27th, mark your calendars because you will absolutely want to read Tracy Baack’s debut novel!
(From the book overview: Content Warnings: Brief mention of opioid addiction, miscarriage, and child loss in side characters. Contains references to the ramifications of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Romance spice level is sweet, swoony kisses only.)
I was gifted a copy of Love and Other Goals, all opinions and love for this book are my own. 💜
The love that blossomed over the course of this book between Mateo and Lana made me literally tear up. Tracy, you already experienced my blubbering, lol. Mateo’s dedication to Lana and all those he loves is SO beautiful to watch play out. Lana’s passion for people and drive to help those in need had me cheering for her and feel inspired so often throughout this book.
I love that Psalm 62 is a running theme through this book and an ever present reminder that ultimately God is our refuge and our fortress in times of trouble.
Some things I loved (in no particular order): The Beefs!!! (Teegs especially 🩷)The Harry Potter room, the absolute sweetheart that is Mateo, delicious slushies, and the loving family elements.
Love and Other Goals releases on June 27th, mark your calendars because you will absolutely want to read Tracy Baack’s debut novel!
(From the book overview: Content Warnings: Brief mention of opioid addiction, miscarriage, and child loss in side characters. Contains references to the ramifications of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Romance spice level is sweet, swoony kisses only.)
I was gifted a copy of Love and Other Goals, all opinions and love for this book are my own. 💜
June 15, 2024
ARC REVIEW
Love and Other Goals by Tracy Baack
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lana is about to start her senior year of college. She has her life mapped out. She know what law school she’s planning to attend and she even knows what boy she is going to date and hopefully marry.
What she wasn’t expecting was that her best laid plans could change. Beginning when the hot soccer player Mateo asks her out and admits to having a crush on her. Lana and Mateo end up dating and falling in love. Lana has to learn how to navigate her plans coming together and then how plans sometimes have to change.
I loved this story! There were hidden gems of wisdom from Lana’s best friends and parents. I loved how Lana really had to learn to accept herself in what she really wanted.
Love and Other Goals by Tracy Baack
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lana is about to start her senior year of college. She has her life mapped out. She know what law school she’s planning to attend and she even knows what boy she is going to date and hopefully marry.
What she wasn’t expecting was that her best laid plans could change. Beginning when the hot soccer player Mateo asks her out and admits to having a crush on her. Lana and Mateo end up dating and falling in love. Lana has to learn how to navigate her plans coming together and then how plans sometimes have to change.
I loved this story! There were hidden gems of wisdom from Lana’s best friends and parents. I loved how Lana really had to learn to accept herself in what she really wanted.
June 21, 2024
4 Stars
⚽️ The vibes:
- College romance
- Soccer captain MMC
- Coming of age
- Christian fiction
- immigration law
🥅 My thoughts:
Lana is living her busy college life filled with church group, her sorority besties, and studying hard for immigration law school- she’s working hard to get all her ducks in a row for the future she’s mapped out. She’s been hoping her long time crush/friend - Aaron -will finally take the plunge and ask her out. But to her surprise- Mateo, the captain of the soccer team, swoops in and asks her out to coffee and shakes up all of her laid out plans.
⚽️ I loved the soccer scenes, the Harry Potter topic of conversations, and Lana’s mom who had so much wisdom and love.
⚽️ I loved that this book 100% dives into the Christian fiction genre. The genre confuses me sometimes but this is very clear. God is weaved in thoroughly into the plot which I enjoyed. I grew up in church and this entire church group gave me MAJOR nostalgia of my highschool youth group.
⚽️ As Mateo and Lana navigate a new relationship in the midst of also chasing dreams, there’s lots of sweet moments, college angst, and forgiveness. I found a lot of it totally relatable to when I was in college and starting a serious relationship during the chaos of this season of finding yourself and your dreams while also falling in love.
⚽️ Their initial interaction felt a little awkward and intense for me and I wished I got to see more of a progression of Mateo’s feelings for Lana - but once they found their groove I thought they fit well together.
⚽️ As a total side note that must be said- I wanted to slap Aaron so many times. 😇
🖤 If you’re looking for a book that feels YA with a coming of age story, soccer romance, Christian culture, and a guy who will do all the things to pursue the girl of his dreams- add this to your list.
Note- closed door
Releases June 27, 2024.
Thank you so much to Tracy Baack for the gifted copy.
⚽️ The vibes:
- College romance
- Soccer captain MMC
- Coming of age
- Christian fiction
- immigration law
🥅 My thoughts:
Lana is living her busy college life filled with church group, her sorority besties, and studying hard for immigration law school- she’s working hard to get all her ducks in a row for the future she’s mapped out. She’s been hoping her long time crush/friend - Aaron -will finally take the plunge and ask her out. But to her surprise- Mateo, the captain of the soccer team, swoops in and asks her out to coffee and shakes up all of her laid out plans.
⚽️ I loved the soccer scenes, the Harry Potter topic of conversations, and Lana’s mom who had so much wisdom and love.
⚽️ I loved that this book 100% dives into the Christian fiction genre. The genre confuses me sometimes but this is very clear. God is weaved in thoroughly into the plot which I enjoyed. I grew up in church and this entire church group gave me MAJOR nostalgia of my highschool youth group.
⚽️ As Mateo and Lana navigate a new relationship in the midst of also chasing dreams, there’s lots of sweet moments, college angst, and forgiveness. I found a lot of it totally relatable to when I was in college and starting a serious relationship during the chaos of this season of finding yourself and your dreams while also falling in love.
⚽️ Their initial interaction felt a little awkward and intense for me and I wished I got to see more of a progression of Mateo’s feelings for Lana - but once they found their groove I thought they fit well together.
⚽️ As a total side note that must be said- I wanted to slap Aaron so many times. 😇
🖤 If you’re looking for a book that feels YA with a coming of age story, soccer romance, Christian culture, and a guy who will do all the things to pursue the girl of his dreams- add this to your list.
Note- closed door
Releases June 27, 2024.
Thank you so much to Tracy Baack for the gifted copy.
June 18, 2024
ARC Review ✨
First I would like to say a big thank you to Tracy Baack for letting me be apart of this ARC Team!
Rate: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 0/5🌶️
What to expect when reading Love and Other Goals;
-He falls first
-College
-Soccer
-Cinnamon roll MMC
Mrs. Ma’am! What an awesome debut book!
Lana was so relatable! Her drive, the way she cares, the planner she is I saw so much of myself in her it was kind of scary lol. Mateo is the ultimate book boyfriend! He is so patient, supportive and kind, like ughhhhh how amazing can he honestly be! You get to follow Lana and Mateo and their journey of seeing if their plans line up. Can they navigate the bumps in their relationship road? Will having faith make everything worth it?
I will say even thought I loved Lana and Mateo’s storyline I have to give it up for the best friend trio! That dynamic was everything to me! I loved every second of them! I hope to see more of them in the future!
Fav Quote: “You listen to a lot of Taylor Swift and cello music”
Make sure you get the book when it releases on June 27th💜
#bookstagram #romance #review
First I would like to say a big thank you to Tracy Baack for letting me be apart of this ARC Team!
Rate: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 0/5🌶️
What to expect when reading Love and Other Goals;
-He falls first
-College
-Soccer
-Cinnamon roll MMC
Mrs. Ma’am! What an awesome debut book!
Lana was so relatable! Her drive, the way she cares, the planner she is I saw so much of myself in her it was kind of scary lol. Mateo is the ultimate book boyfriend! He is so patient, supportive and kind, like ughhhhh how amazing can he honestly be! You get to follow Lana and Mateo and their journey of seeing if their plans line up. Can they navigate the bumps in their relationship road? Will having faith make everything worth it?
I will say even thought I loved Lana and Mateo’s storyline I have to give it up for the best friend trio! That dynamic was everything to me! I loved every second of them! I hope to see more of them in the future!
Fav Quote: “You listen to a lot of Taylor Swift and cello music”
Make sure you get the book when it releases on June 27th💜
#bookstagram #romance #review
June 19, 2024
4.44 ⭐( angel couples deserve an angel number)
My 14 year old self would be in cloud nine reading this book. The now me is swooning every time Mateo even breathes 😂
It is a closed door romance. It's been a while since I've read any but I can assure you, this book makes it to the top.
Mateo is just perfect. I don't know how else to describe this gem of a man. He is caring, supportive, present and anything and everything a girl can ask for. I loved him from the moment I met him, he just has that charm in him.
Lana is a strong, independent, determined and empathetic woman. Although I didn't like the whole drama with Aaron and at times even felt that she doesn't deserve Mateo (or that maybe because I love him a little too much).
Overall, I loved it. I literally stayed up till 3 am finishing this book. Totally worth it
If I ever fall in love with someone in real life, I want it to be like Mateo and Lana's love.
My 14 year old self would be in cloud nine reading this book. The now me is swooning every time Mateo even breathes 😂
It is a closed door romance. It's been a while since I've read any but I can assure you, this book makes it to the top.
Mateo is just perfect. I don't know how else to describe this gem of a man. He is caring, supportive, present and anything and everything a girl can ask for. I loved him from the moment I met him, he just has that charm in him.
Lana is a strong, independent, determined and empathetic woman. Although I didn't like the whole drama with Aaron and at times even felt that she doesn't deserve Mateo (or that maybe because I love him a little too much).
Overall, I loved it. I literally stayed up till 3 am finishing this book. Totally worth it
If I ever fall in love with someone in real life, I want it to be like Mateo and Lana's love.
July 4, 2024
ARC review 💗
congratulations (in advance) on your release tracy! you should be so proud of yourself!
‘love and other games’ revolves a lot around themes of faith, and i think because i’m not christian, i found it difficult to follow.
to be 100% honest, i don’t think the book was for me partly because of the aspects of religion mentioned and partly because i’m not quite fond of the way the two love interests got together (i’m definitely a more slow burn kind of girl:) i find it easier to create a connection with characters during the build up of their relationship, before they get together, and i think that was what was missing for me since it happened so quick!
however, i do encourage anyone who thinks they may enjoy it to give it a try!
regardless, thank you so so much for the early opportunity to read your novel. i’m still trying to get into the groove of being an arc reader, and you were kind enough to include me in your publishing journey. even though ‘love and other games’ wasn’t my cup of tea, i’m certain you will find your target audience and blow them away with your writing.
congratulations (in advance) on your release tracy! you should be so proud of yourself!
‘love and other games’ revolves a lot around themes of faith, and i think because i’m not christian, i found it difficult to follow.
to be 100% honest, i don’t think the book was for me partly because of the aspects of religion mentioned and partly because i’m not quite fond of the way the two love interests got together (i’m definitely a more slow burn kind of girl:) i find it easier to create a connection with characters during the build up of their relationship, before they get together, and i think that was what was missing for me since it happened so quick!
however, i do encourage anyone who thinks they may enjoy it to give it a try!
regardless, thank you so so much for the early opportunity to read your novel. i’m still trying to get into the groove of being an arc reader, and you were kind enough to include me in your publishing journey. even though ‘love and other games’ wasn’t my cup of tea, i’m certain you will find your target audience and blow them away with your writing.
January 25, 2025
Loved, loved, loved Mateo and Lana's story! This book brought back so many memories from my own college ministry experiences. Which made this book very relatable to me! However, you'd still enjoy Mateo and Lana's story even if you don't have those same college memories. I love the depth of the characters, and the growth Mateo and Lana both experienced. Mateo is a very respectful, thoughtful, swoony MMC. Lana was a relatable FMC with her stubbornness, desire to help others, and loyalty.
I highly recommend this book! It was a fast paced story, that keeps you wanting more and hard to put the book down. I cannot wait for Teegan's story in Tracy's next book coming out in March, Love and Other Chances!
I highly recommend this book! It was a fast paced story, that keeps you wanting more and hard to put the book down. I cannot wait for Teegan's story in Tracy's next book coming out in March, Love and Other Chances!
July 3, 2024
I couldn’t put this book down! It had me smiling, crying, squealing; all the emotions were packed into this debut novel!
“Love and Other Goals” was absolutely beautifully written. The story flowed smoothly and I was 100% invested the entire read. The intensity during the soccer matches was amazing. I don’t know the rules around soccer, but between the explanations and the energy of the characters I was on the edge of my seat.
I loved how Mateo was introduced to
the story. We weren’t given an instant introduction or a background right away; he just seamlessly waltzes into Lana’s life and asks her to coffee. Yet he was always in the background, always overlooked before his intentions were made, which we see as Lana discovers more about him. Mateo is the ultimate representation of a gentleman and treats Lana how every woman should be treated, with gentleness and respect. He gave me butterflies and reminded me of my first dates with my husband.
This was a step back in time to the schedules, friendships, and experiences of college. As someone who went to a Christian college, watched soccer matches on campus, and met some of my best friends during those experiences, it was nostalgic and close to my heart to read and experience those feelings again through this book. The college in the book wasn’t a Christian one, yet the novel is faith based and centered around a Christian campus outreach that I have also had experience with.
⭐️5/5
🎙️ no language
❤️🔥 swoony kisses only
“Love and Other Goals” was absolutely beautifully written. The story flowed smoothly and I was 100% invested the entire read. The intensity during the soccer matches was amazing. I don’t know the rules around soccer, but between the explanations and the energy of the characters I was on the edge of my seat.
I loved how Mateo was introduced to
the story. We weren’t given an instant introduction or a background right away; he just seamlessly waltzes into Lana’s life and asks her to coffee. Yet he was always in the background, always overlooked before his intentions were made, which we see as Lana discovers more about him. Mateo is the ultimate representation of a gentleman and treats Lana how every woman should be treated, with gentleness and respect. He gave me butterflies and reminded me of my first dates with my husband.
This was a step back in time to the schedules, friendships, and experiences of college. As someone who went to a Christian college, watched soccer matches on campus, and met some of my best friends during those experiences, it was nostalgic and close to my heart to read and experience those feelings again through this book. The college in the book wasn’t a Christian one, yet the novel is faith based and centered around a Christian campus outreach that I have also had experience with.
⭐️5/5
🎙️ no language
❤️🔥 swoony kisses only
April 17, 2025
Goodness. gracious.
In an attempt to write a realistic romance, this was made entirely unrealistic. So many cringey moments I almost couldn’t get through. And literally every chapter has “tears sprung to my eyes” in some way… why is everyone so emotionally unstable.
In an attempt to write a realistic romance, this was made entirely unrealistic. So many cringey moments I almost couldn’t get through. And literally every chapter has “tears sprung to my eyes” in some way… why is everyone so emotionally unstable.
June 14, 2024
thank you to tracy baack for sending me this ARC of love and other goals. it was an absolute honor to read and review this book! Love and other goals releases june 27!!
I could not put love and other goals down once i started reading! this book is such a feel good sports romance book and had my face hurting from the constant smiling. dont even get me started on mateo because i am absolutely in love with him. he is the ultimate book boyfriend.
5⭐️
if you like sports romance then you definitely need to give this book a read!! ⚽️🖤
I could not put love and other goals down once i started reading! this book is such a feel good sports romance book and had my face hurting from the constant smiling. dont even get me started on mateo because i am absolutely in love with him. he is the ultimate book boyfriend.
5⭐️
if you like sports romance then you definitely need to give this book a read!! ⚽️🖤
June 25, 2024
After reading this book for the second time (thanks for the ARC) I think it is safe to say I loved the second read thru maybe even more than the first. I LOVE the setting (probably because of my own very fond memories of my time in college.) The characters that Tracy created are raw and real and swoon-worthy. The threads throughout the book on the importance of community, of being intentional, of paying attention to the people around you, of advocating for those who need help finding their voice… ALL the good things are in this book.
September 23, 2024
You guys.. this book was so sweet!! This is my first book this author and won’t be my last! My good friend @samanthakreads recommended this one and I know I can always trust her recs! 💯
I loved this book because we really get to see Mateo + Lana’s relationship develop and go through all the new stages and the hard stages. I’ve been looking for a book like this for a while and I fell in love with these two watching their relationship blossom! Mateo has had his eye on Lana for a long time and the way he pursues her is precious!! The way their first kiss really needed to mean something to them 🫠 The love letters & the relationship between Lana and her best friends in college was super special!
✨Bonus quote
“You’ve stolen my favorite celebration and my favorite PK strategy, so what do you plan to steal next?” I ask him in a teasing tone. Mateo’s eyes are on the road, but the right side of his mouth gently upturns. “Whatever you’ll give me, Lana.” 🥹🥹🥹
Thank you, Tracy for this wonderful book 💜
I loved this book because we really get to see Mateo + Lana’s relationship develop and go through all the new stages and the hard stages. I’ve been looking for a book like this for a while and I fell in love with these two watching their relationship blossom! Mateo has had his eye on Lana for a long time and the way he pursues her is precious!! The way their first kiss really needed to mean something to them 🫠 The love letters & the relationship between Lana and her best friends in college was super special!
✨Bonus quote
“You’ve stolen my favorite celebration and my favorite PK strategy, so what do you plan to steal next?” I ask him in a teasing tone. Mateo’s eyes are on the road, but the right side of his mouth gently upturns. “Whatever you’ll give me, Lana.” 🥹🥹🥹
Thank you, Tracy for this wonderful book 💜
June 28, 2024
Story time! When I was 19, I met a young man with shaggy hair (apparently college boys can’t afford haircuts), oversized clothes, a Circle trilogy necklace (shout-out to any OG Dekker fans!), and red Crocs (I know, I know). We had the nicest conversation but he had a gf back home so the connection was nice but meaningless since I was on a quest to find a husband (I can’t be shy about that when I tell college stories now because it’s just true). “So many handsome guys with longing in their eyes / And all you had to do was pick the age, the weight, the size!” Fast forward a bit and we now have a bowling class (very athletic of us!) which requires a twice-a-week gym time; during which, despite having other friends in the class, just ended up being me and him every week for a month, talking as we panted our way through the treadmill and weight machines. Somewhere along the way of our forced proximity, he broke up with his gf (unrelated to me!) and I fell so hard that I awkwardly flirted with him for a week, before blurting out, “I really, really like you.” Turns out, he liked me too and seventeen years and three kids later, the rest is history.
But THAT story is why “Love and Other Goals” hit me so hard in the feels. Sure, our college didn’t have fraternities and sororities; and I fell hard for a nerd not an athlete. But I know very, very well what it’s like to do the Christian dating thing in college: to juggle classes, want love, follow Jesus, mess up all of it at one point or another. And Tracy Baack’s debut novel does a good job of capturing those elements but also smoothing them out just enough to make it a truly sweet rom-com. I mean, Mateo is top-notch book boyfriend material; his thoughtfulness and directness are *chef’s kiss*. And I relate to Lana so much; my dreams and ambitions were smaller than hers but I was so tightly wound in college that, despite almost 3 years together, I almost broke up with the aforementioned boyfriend over an extremely small, comprisable matter just because I was so overwrought– sometimes, no matter how smart or invested you are, it’s possible to not see something clearly. Watching Lana kind of collapse in on herself during her own crisis but then get turned around by good friends and supportive family was done so well.
Anyway. This is a good one. Tracy can only go up from here and I hope people buy her book.
But THAT story is why “Love and Other Goals” hit me so hard in the feels. Sure, our college didn’t have fraternities and sororities; and I fell hard for a nerd not an athlete. But I know very, very well what it’s like to do the Christian dating thing in college: to juggle classes, want love, follow Jesus, mess up all of it at one point or another. And Tracy Baack’s debut novel does a good job of capturing those elements but also smoothing them out just enough to make it a truly sweet rom-com. I mean, Mateo is top-notch book boyfriend material; his thoughtfulness and directness are *chef’s kiss*. And I relate to Lana so much; my dreams and ambitions were smaller than hers but I was so tightly wound in college that, despite almost 3 years together, I almost broke up with the aforementioned boyfriend over an extremely small, comprisable matter just because I was so overwrought– sometimes, no matter how smart or invested you are, it’s possible to not see something clearly. Watching Lana kind of collapse in on herself during her own crisis but then get turned around by good friends and supportive family was done so well.
Anyway. This is a good one. Tracy can only go up from here and I hope people buy her book.
March 8, 2025
Wow! I truly loved this sweet romance and everything about it. The faith themes throughout, the friendships, the close family relationships, the dates, the way they serve others, waiting for the first kiss, taking time to know each other, and Mateo! Oh Mateo!! He is probably one of my favorite MMCs. He was so sweet, attentive, respectful and honorable in every way that he treated Lana. I love how Tracy portrayed Christian college students and how they handled parties and dating. This would be a good read for teen girls going to or already in college. Another favorite added to my 2025 reads!!! 👏🏼👏🏼🫶🏻
FMC: Lana - studying immigration law
MMC: Mateo - college soccer player
What you’ll find:
⚽️ Single POV
⚽️ College romance
⚽️ Cinnamon roll MMC
⚽️ She wears his jersey
⚽️ Greek housing
⚽️ Passing notes
⚽️ Sweet dates
⚽️ Close families
⚽️ Best friends (“beefs”)
⚽️ Soccer games
⚽️ Christian themes
𝘞𝘩𝘰 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘰𝘥? 𝘖𝘳 𝘴𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘱? 𝘖𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘳? 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘰’𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵.
INFO:
📚: Book 1 of 2 - “Love and Other…” series
🔹: interconnected standalones
📖: 346 pages
CONTENT:
🌶️: Sweet, swoony kisses only.
🤬: None
⚠️: Brief mentions of opioid addiction, miscarriage, and child loss among side characters. Contains references to the ramifications of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.
FMC: Lana - studying immigration law
MMC: Mateo - college soccer player
What you’ll find:
⚽️ Single POV
⚽️ College romance
⚽️ Cinnamon roll MMC
⚽️ She wears his jersey
⚽️ Greek housing
⚽️ Passing notes
⚽️ Sweet dates
⚽️ Close families
⚽️ Best friends (“beefs”)
⚽️ Soccer games
⚽️ Christian themes
𝘞𝘩𝘰 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘰𝘥? 𝘖𝘳 𝘴𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘱? 𝘖𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘳? 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘰’𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘴𝘶𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵.
INFO:
📚: Book 1 of 2 - “Love and Other…” series
🔹: interconnected standalones
📖: 346 pages
CONTENT:
🌶️: Sweet, swoony kisses only.
🤬: None
⚠️: Brief mentions of opioid addiction, miscarriage, and child loss among side characters. Contains references to the ramifications of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.
June 23, 2024
Best book I’ve read this year. Truthfully it deserves more than 5 stars!! I couldn’t put this book down! All the emotions were packed into this debut novel!
This was a fun read that took me back to the schedules and friendships of college. The book is centered around a Christian campus ministry—I love all the faith aspects throughout the book!
Lana has a passion for all people and a drive to help those in need. She wants to be a immigration lawyer and has a special place in her heart for the Afghan refugees. She had me cheering for her and feel inspired so often throughout the book. Mateo is captain of the soccer team and loved by everyone. I loved how Mateo was introduced—he seamlessly waltzes into Lana’s life and asks her to coffee. Even though for the last few years he had always been in the background, always been overlooked until he made his intentions known. We learn how patient and attentive Mateo is as Lana discovers more about him. Mateo treats Lana how every woman should be treated, with gentleness and respect. Mateo and Lana’s love that blossomed over the course of this book was so beautifully written and had me tearing up. Mateo’s dedication to those he loves, especially Lana, is so beautiful to watch. I loved Lana with her BEEFS!!
This novel was absolutely beautifully written. The story flowed so smoothly and I was 100% invested and didn’t want it to end!
Love and Other Goals is faith based, closed door-swoon worthy kisses only romance.
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
This was a fun read that took me back to the schedules and friendships of college. The book is centered around a Christian campus ministry—I love all the faith aspects throughout the book!
Lana has a passion for all people and a drive to help those in need. She wants to be a immigration lawyer and has a special place in her heart for the Afghan refugees. She had me cheering for her and feel inspired so often throughout the book. Mateo is captain of the soccer team and loved by everyone. I loved how Mateo was introduced—he seamlessly waltzes into Lana’s life and asks her to coffee. Even though for the last few years he had always been in the background, always been overlooked until he made his intentions known. We learn how patient and attentive Mateo is as Lana discovers more about him. Mateo treats Lana how every woman should be treated, with gentleness and respect. Mateo and Lana’s love that blossomed over the course of this book was so beautifully written and had me tearing up. Mateo’s dedication to those he loves, especially Lana, is so beautiful to watch. I loved Lana with her BEEFS!!
This novel was absolutely beautifully written. The story flowed so smoothly and I was 100% invested and didn’t want it to end!
Love and Other Goals is faith based, closed door-swoon worthy kisses only romance.
Thank you to the author for an ARC copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
June 19, 2024
mateo has my heart forever and ever <3
LOAG is about how lana, who is a senior in college and has her future mapped out to a T, gets thrown for a loop when mateo, someone who has never been on her radar asks her on a date <3
mateo has liked her from afar for years, and now he is taking a chance and shooting his shot after lana has had a crush on someone else for years
LOAG is a he falls first & harder, golden retriever mmc, soccer/college romance
i really enjoyed how they both agreed that honesty was the most important thing, and they were constantly talking about their feelings
what really had me kicking my feet screaming twirling my hair crying was when he ASKED IF HE COULD KISS HER
HELLO CHIVALRY IS NOT DEAD IT IS ALIVE IN MATEO ALVAREZ THE LOML
(dont get me started on when he asked if he could hold her hand, i.e., benedict bridgerton when he spilled his drink)
i love sports romances with all my heart, and i LOVE soccer, but have never read a soccer romance, and it was so nice (:
i was constantly smiling and giggling while reading about their wholesome interactions (: one of the cutest and fluffiest and sweetest books i've read for sure
thank you so much Tracy Baack for my ARC of LOAG in exchange for an honest review <3
LOAG is about how lana, who is a senior in college and has her future mapped out to a T, gets thrown for a loop when mateo, someone who has never been on her radar asks her on a date <3
mateo has liked her from afar for years, and now he is taking a chance and shooting his shot after lana has had a crush on someone else for years
LOAG is a he falls first & harder, golden retriever mmc, soccer/college romance
i really enjoyed how they both agreed that honesty was the most important thing, and they were constantly talking about their feelings
what really had me kicking my feet screaming twirling my hair crying was when he ASKED IF HE COULD KISS HER
HELLO CHIVALRY IS NOT DEAD IT IS ALIVE IN MATEO ALVAREZ THE LOML
(dont get me started on when he asked if he could hold her hand, i.e., benedict bridgerton when he spilled his drink)
i love sports romances with all my heart, and i LOVE soccer, but have never read a soccer romance, and it was so nice (:
i was constantly smiling and giggling while reading about their wholesome interactions (: one of the cutest and fluffiest and sweetest books i've read for sure
thank you so much Tracy Baack for my ARC of LOAG in exchange for an honest review <3
May 23, 2025
This is sugar in a book. SO STINKIN SWEET! Mateo deserves an award for sweetest most respectful and caring person ever. Truly. He was too perfect 😂 I loved Lana too! Although I wish we would have been able to see her through his eyes as she did with him. 💕 Regardless I liked her too! She was caring and sweet and I loved how she immediately decided to give her all into their relationship ❤️ Only a couple times I disagreed with her haha! I loved the sweet friendships …where can I get my own beefs?😭😂💕 so so glad I picked this back up!
(May be considered spoiler? Idk) I lowky think Mateo deserved a better proposal scene LOL I mean it was super and emotion and sweet and if I was a romcom crier that was the moment 😂 but I think we missed out on an AWESOME proposal scene if they hadn’t broke up😪
(May be considered spoiler? Idk) I lowky think Mateo deserved a better proposal scene LOL I mean it was super and emotion and sweet and if I was a romcom crier that was the moment 😂 but I think we missed out on an AWESOME proposal scene if they hadn’t broke up😪
June 14, 2024
Wow. Guys I just read this in a single day. I could not put this book down!! I was so hooked & engulfed in these characters & their love story.
Tracy Baack did such an amazing job. These characters have such great depth. Along with the fact that everything that happens and all the characters seem so real, raw, & relatable. It’s not one of those ‘oh that would never happen in real life though’ romances at all.
The faith elements were amazing. I loved them so much! It was awesome seeing it in the aspect of a campus ministry and to get to read some testimonies through that environment was something I really enjoyed! Along with a whole verse quoted in the book beautifully!
The love interests though! Guys!!! Lana & Mateo are now one of my all time favorite book couples. This was one of the sweetest romances I’ve read. The thought and care and love behind every action and word was heartwarming, and Matteo had me grinning, squealing, & swooning at so many points of this book.
*If you like these things in your romance you should definitely check this out! : college romance, sports romance ; specially soccer, faith elements; girl group; he falls first, & closed door; kissing only.
Which btw guys, completely spice free, kissing only!! And that did not mean any less butterflies or swooning at all, if anything even more so for me!!
I can not recommend this enough! It comes out June 27th & if you’re a romance reader you need to run & get it when it does!!!
Tracy Baack did such an amazing job. These characters have such great depth. Along with the fact that everything that happens and all the characters seem so real, raw, & relatable. It’s not one of those ‘oh that would never happen in real life though’ romances at all.
The faith elements were amazing. I loved them so much! It was awesome seeing it in the aspect of a campus ministry and to get to read some testimonies through that environment was something I really enjoyed! Along with a whole verse quoted in the book beautifully!
The love interests though! Guys!!! Lana & Mateo are now one of my all time favorite book couples. This was one of the sweetest romances I’ve read. The thought and care and love behind every action and word was heartwarming, and Matteo had me grinning, squealing, & swooning at so many points of this book.
*If you like these things in your romance you should definitely check this out! : college romance, sports romance ; specially soccer, faith elements; girl group; he falls first, & closed door; kissing only.
Which btw guys, completely spice free, kissing only!! And that did not mean any less butterflies or swooning at all, if anything even more so for me!!
I can not recommend this enough! It comes out June 27th & if you’re a romance reader you need to run & get it when it does!!!
June 23, 2024
Let me start this off by saying if I could give this 6⭐️s I would. LAOG had me literally smiling and kicking my feet. From the moment I was introduced to Mateo I was like head over heels for him. I typically don’t route for couples in books but I found myself routing for Lana and Mateo. Let’s just say that their breakup had me literally screaming what the heck. But then the epilogue made up for it!!! Everyone needs to read this ASAP. Thank you Tracy for choosing me to be on the ARC team for LAOG!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2025
4⭐️
what an absolutely adorable time!!! This is my first book from Tracy Baack and I am absolutely hooked! 🩵 the romance in this book was just so sweet and wholesome, and it was refreshing to be able to read a little college sports romance without having to worry about spice and language. I will definitely be finishing this series and I’m so excited to try more from this author! Highly recommend giving this book a read if you are looking for a clean college romance with a super cute couple, faith elements, and a sweet friend group!
what an absolutely adorable time!!! This is my first book from Tracy Baack and I am absolutely hooked! 🩵 the romance in this book was just so sweet and wholesome, and it was refreshing to be able to read a little college sports romance without having to worry about spice and language. I will definitely be finishing this series and I’m so excited to try more from this author! Highly recommend giving this book a read if you are looking for a clean college romance with a super cute couple, faith elements, and a sweet friend group!
June 19, 2024
Love and Other Goals - Tracy Baack
** I received a free digital copy of this book in return for an honest review **
Lana Grant has her life planned out to the minute to get her to her future goals. She has been through college looking to check off boxes to her future. Out of left field, Mateo Alvarez, captain of the soccer team, asks her out for coffee and makes Lana second guess everything.
This is a super sweet faith based romance that will leave you with all the heartwarming moments your heart desires.
“Everywhere you go, you leave behind a trail of people whose lives are better after crossing paths with you.”
Read if you like:
+ Christian YA Romance
+ College Athlete X Greek Life
+ He Falls First
** I received a free digital copy of this book in return for an honest review **
Lana Grant has her life planned out to the minute to get her to her future goals. She has been through college looking to check off boxes to her future. Out of left field, Mateo Alvarez, captain of the soccer team, asks her out for coffee and makes Lana second guess everything.
This is a super sweet faith based romance that will leave you with all the heartwarming moments your heart desires.
“Everywhere you go, you leave behind a trail of people whose lives are better after crossing paths with you.”
Read if you like:
+ Christian YA Romance
+ College Athlete X Greek Life
+ He Falls First
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