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Red Zone: A College Sports Romance
A star athlete's dreams and a determined single mother's secret collide in a game where love and integrity are the true champions.
Liam
I'm on the verge of everything I've ever wanted—NFL scouts are watching, and my future is just within reach.
But when Skylar Finley walks back into my life as the football team's new social media intern, suddenly the game isn’t my only focus.
She’s keeping something from me, and her reappearance is starting to mess with my head—and my performance on the field. My coach is losing patience, and I can’t afford any more fumbles.
Just when I think I’ve got my playbook in order, a scandal blindsides the team, and I’m forced to make the hardest call of my life—one that could bench me for good.
Skye
Coming back to my alma mater was never in the cards—especially with Liam Cartwright still here.
Our college romance ended in heartbreak, and now I’m holding onto a secret that could turn everything upside a daughter he doesn’t know exists.
As the team’s new social media intern, I’m supposed to highlight their success, not uncover a dangerous conspiracy.
But as I dig deeper into the team’s suspicious activities, I find myself caught in the middle of a scandal that could ruin lives—especially Liam’s.
Now I’m juggling single motherhood, a rekindled romance, and a deadly secret that could cost us everything.
The Play
The stakes have never been higher, and the end zone seems further away with each play.
As Skylar and I confront the past, I’m pulled deeper into a web of lies, performance-enhancing drugs, and choices that could derail everything I’ve worked for.
Every snap feels like a gamble, and my NFL dreams hang in the balance. One wrong move could end my career before it even starts, but losing Skylar again? That would be the ultimate defeat.
To protect the people I love and secure our future, I’ll have to make the toughest play of my life.
But with the clock ticking down and the pressure building, I’m not sure if we can come out on top.
Some risks are worth taking, though, and for her—for us—I’ll leave it all on the field.
Red Zone is a second-chance sports romance with a single-parent twist, packed with suspense, steamy moments, and a love that defies the odds—guaranteed HEA, no cliffhangers.
Liam
I'm on the verge of everything I've ever wanted—NFL scouts are watching, and my future is just within reach.
But when Skylar Finley walks back into my life as the football team's new social media intern, suddenly the game isn’t my only focus.
She’s keeping something from me, and her reappearance is starting to mess with my head—and my performance on the field. My coach is losing patience, and I can’t afford any more fumbles.
Just when I think I’ve got my playbook in order, a scandal blindsides the team, and I’m forced to make the hardest call of my life—one that could bench me for good.
Skye
Coming back to my alma mater was never in the cards—especially with Liam Cartwright still here.
Our college romance ended in heartbreak, and now I’m holding onto a secret that could turn everything upside a daughter he doesn’t know exists.
As the team’s new social media intern, I’m supposed to highlight their success, not uncover a dangerous conspiracy.
But as I dig deeper into the team’s suspicious activities, I find myself caught in the middle of a scandal that could ruin lives—especially Liam’s.
Now I’m juggling single motherhood, a rekindled romance, and a deadly secret that could cost us everything.
The Play
The stakes have never been higher, and the end zone seems further away with each play.
As Skylar and I confront the past, I’m pulled deeper into a web of lies, performance-enhancing drugs, and choices that could derail everything I’ve worked for.
Every snap feels like a gamble, and my NFL dreams hang in the balance. One wrong move could end my career before it even starts, but losing Skylar again? That would be the ultimate defeat.
To protect the people I love and secure our future, I’ll have to make the toughest play of my life.
But with the clock ticking down and the pressure building, I’m not sure if we can come out on top.
Some risks are worth taking, though, and for her—for us—I’ll leave it all on the field.
Red Zone is a second-chance sports romance with a single-parent twist, packed with suspense, steamy moments, and a love that defies the odds—guaranteed HEA, no cliffhangers.
- GenresRomance
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2025
5 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
May 31, 2025
4 - 4.5 stars
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance is the third book in the captivating Fall Lake Ballers series, featuring the story of Skye and Liam. Isla knows the key elements that make a sports romance truly engaging.
This high-stakes, multilayered narrative weaves a complex tapestry of secrets, lies, emotions, fears, and desires. As these elements come to light, the team faces imminent threats, jeopardizing their careers and everything they hold dear.
Skylar, a social media intern, never anticipated that uncovering dark secrets within the team would be part of her responsibilities. However, this mission puts her hidden truth at risk. Liam senses that she is concealing something significant, but he doesn’t yet grasp the full extent of her secret. Compounding the tension is another darker secret that could change everything.
Red Zone is an intense and passionate tale filled with sizzling chemistry, second chances, and dangerous conspiracies. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, and I eagerly anticipate the next book in the series.
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance is the third book in the captivating Fall Lake Ballers series, featuring the story of Skye and Liam. Isla knows the key elements that make a sports romance truly engaging.
This high-stakes, multilayered narrative weaves a complex tapestry of secrets, lies, emotions, fears, and desires. As these elements come to light, the team faces imminent threats, jeopardizing their careers and everything they hold dear.
Skylar, a social media intern, never anticipated that uncovering dark secrets within the team would be part of her responsibilities. However, this mission puts her hidden truth at risk. Liam senses that she is concealing something significant, but he doesn’t yet grasp the full extent of her secret. Compounding the tension is another darker secret that could change everything.
Red Zone is an intense and passionate tale filled with sizzling chemistry, second chances, and dangerous conspiracies. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, and I eagerly anticipate the next book in the series.
May 30, 2025
This is book 3 in the Fall Lake Ballers series. This is a sports romance by one of my favourite authors. I am always so excited to pick up these books because I know I am going to be in for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as well as sizzling chemistry and characters you can't help but fall in love with. And this was another story that I lost myself in completely. It is a second chance sports romance with high stakes on and off the playing field, secrets being uncovered, and a lovely that won't be denied any longer.
This is Liam and Skye's story.
Liam and Skye have history. A brief relationship was as far as it went because Liam was too focused on his career and reaching his dream of being professional. When Skye left it broke his heart but made him more determined he would reach his dream and romance would come last.
Skye fell hard for Liam and when she realised she held a secret that could change both their futures, she knew she had to walk away. And that is what she did, even though she was heartbroken she knew it was what she had to do.
Fast forward and now their paths have crossed again because Skye is working on the teams social media. Neither of them expected all the old feelings to come rushing back instantly, but with secrets from the past which will change Liam's dreams, stress and pressure to achieve the goal he has been working towards his own life and other outside influences that is threatening to derail everything, do Skye and Liam have what it takes to fight for their second chance?
This story was very emotional. I could understand both parties feelings, Skye left because she thought Liam wouldn't want a future with her if he found out her secret, Liam is angry and hurt about the fact she left but doesn't understand the reason why and when that reason is revealed he feels even more anger. However at the same time I can understand Skye's reaction, she did what she had to do to survive and build a life for herself even if that meant leaving the man she loved behind.
This is Liam and Skye's story.
Liam and Skye have history. A brief relationship was as far as it went because Liam was too focused on his career and reaching his dream of being professional. When Skye left it broke his heart but made him more determined he would reach his dream and romance would come last.
Skye fell hard for Liam and when she realised she held a secret that could change both their futures, she knew she had to walk away. And that is what she did, even though she was heartbroken she knew it was what she had to do.
Fast forward and now their paths have crossed again because Skye is working on the teams social media. Neither of them expected all the old feelings to come rushing back instantly, but with secrets from the past which will change Liam's dreams, stress and pressure to achieve the goal he has been working towards his own life and other outside influences that is threatening to derail everything, do Skye and Liam have what it takes to fight for their second chance?
This story was very emotional. I could understand both parties feelings, Skye left because she thought Liam wouldn't want a future with her if he found out her secret, Liam is angry and hurt about the fact she left but doesn't understand the reason why and when that reason is revealed he feels even more anger. However at the same time I can understand Skye's reaction, she did what she had to do to survive and build a life for herself even if that meant leaving the man she loved behind.
June 2, 2025
Red Zone is a spicy, sweet second-chance romance with suspenseful elements that will keep your attention until the final page is read!
This is the third book in the Fall Lake Ballers Series, and it’s now time for Liam and Skye to tell us their story. Liam and Skye dated years ago, but as things were heating up between them, they broke things off. Now, Skye is back in his life as his team’s social media intern. All the feelings between them come roaring back, but now the stakes are even higher. Liam is determined to make it to the NFL, and Skye is now a single mom. They will have to overcome numerous obstacles if they are to have a chance of finally finding their happily ever after.
Skye has done her best to avoid seeing Liam for the past few years, but she can’t hide now. She is the new intern, and now she is also his chemistry tutor. She has an earth-shattering secret she is keeping from Liam, too, and it’s only a matter of time before he finds out the truth.
As with each book in the series, Vaughn does a great job of keeping readers’ interest. Additionally, she excels at character development. She begins building her main characters in previous novels, showing us just snippets of them but yet piquing our interest. So, we are somewhat invested in them before they get their own books. I enjoyed getting to know Liam, Skye, and their precious daughter, Lily. Both characters are highly complex and complicated, as well as driven to attain their own individual goals. The romance was spicy and sweet. I LOVED seeing Liam with Lily. This was a couple I was hoping would be able to put the past behind them and find a happy future together. The suspense made the book even better. It added another layer, and Vaughn did an excellent job of perfectly balancing the romance and suspense. I have enjoyed every book in the series!
This is the third book in the Fall Lake Ballers Series, and it’s now time for Liam and Skye to tell us their story. Liam and Skye dated years ago, but as things were heating up between them, they broke things off. Now, Skye is back in his life as his team’s social media intern. All the feelings between them come roaring back, but now the stakes are even higher. Liam is determined to make it to the NFL, and Skye is now a single mom. They will have to overcome numerous obstacles if they are to have a chance of finally finding their happily ever after.
Skye has done her best to avoid seeing Liam for the past few years, but she can’t hide now. She is the new intern, and now she is also his chemistry tutor. She has an earth-shattering secret she is keeping from Liam, too, and it’s only a matter of time before he finds out the truth.
As with each book in the series, Vaughn does a great job of keeping readers’ interest. Additionally, she excels at character development. She begins building her main characters in previous novels, showing us just snippets of them but yet piquing our interest. So, we are somewhat invested in them before they get their own books. I enjoyed getting to know Liam, Skye, and their precious daughter, Lily. Both characters are highly complex and complicated, as well as driven to attain their own individual goals. The romance was spicy and sweet. I LOVED seeing Liam with Lily. This was a couple I was hoping would be able to put the past behind them and find a happy future together. The suspense made the book even better. It added another layer, and Vaughn did an excellent job of perfectly balancing the romance and suspense. I have enjoyed every book in the series!
May 30, 2025
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance by Isla VaughnMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Red Zone, This is the third book in the Fall Lake Ballers series by Isla Vaughn. I have read the previous two books in this series and enjoyed them as well. Isla has done it again. There is nothing I love more than college football, romance and a little bit of danger thrown in for some added drama.
Liam- Has a reputation, he doesn't do relationships, his only priority is football and making it to the NFL. Three years ago (freshman year) he dated Skye, he still thinks about her often and wonders if she is the one that got away. Until one day there she is on the sidelines at practice taking pictures for the team's social media page. The instant he sees her all his feelings come rushing back.
Skye- She did her best to stay as far away from Liam as she could the last three years, she had one thing on her mind, being the best mom she could to her daughter Lily she knew taking this internship with the football team would put her right back into his world. And it sure did, not only does she see him on the field every day, but now she also has to tutor him in Chemistry so he stays eligible to play football.
The chemistry is still there between them and Liam will stop at nothing to win Skye's heart back, and protect her and Lily at all costs from the dangers lurking in the shadows at Fall U.
I would definitely recommend this book and the previous three of the Fall Lake Ballers series. They can be read as stand alone books, but I highly recommend reading them in order due to the characters lives that overlap in each book.
View all my reviews
June 3, 2025
Liam is riding high in College; NFL scouts are looking at him and hopefully his career is going somewhere but one afternoon when he is on cloud nine but his past crashes into him can he put that behind him and look to the future.
Skye is back at her old college as a Social Media Intern which she is looking forward to but not looking forward to running into Liam Cartwright a boy who broke her heart, so when she must uncover the dark secrets of the football team, she is holding the biggest darkest secret of them all.
As they get to know each other again and the old feelings coming back, Liam has a feeling that she is not telling him the whole story, but Skye feels if she does give up her secret her world will come crashing down around her and hurt the people most dear to her.
This is the third book in this series and just as the other two books are engaging and full of suspense and will have to turning the pages to uncover the truths and lies which lie beneath the world of football.
Although the book is part of a series it can be read as a stand-alone book and with the characters well developed you will be enthralled from the first chapter. Liam and Skye’s characters are complex and intertwine with history and the future which they both are looking for, add in the added drama which is uncovered it makes a brilliant read. The chemistry between these two characters jumps off the page and you are wishing them to get together in the end and live happily ever after. I love this author and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
Skye is back at her old college as a Social Media Intern which she is looking forward to but not looking forward to running into Liam Cartwright a boy who broke her heart, so when she must uncover the dark secrets of the football team, she is holding the biggest darkest secret of them all.
As they get to know each other again and the old feelings coming back, Liam has a feeling that she is not telling him the whole story, but Skye feels if she does give up her secret her world will come crashing down around her and hurt the people most dear to her.
This is the third book in this series and just as the other two books are engaging and full of suspense and will have to turning the pages to uncover the truths and lies which lie beneath the world of football.
Although the book is part of a series it can be read as a stand-alone book and with the characters well developed you will be enthralled from the first chapter. Liam and Skye’s characters are complex and intertwine with history and the future which they both are looking for, add in the added drama which is uncovered it makes a brilliant read. The chemistry between these two characters jumps off the page and you are wishing them to get together in the end and live happily ever after. I love this author and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
May 31, 2025
Isla Vaughn has done it again with book 3 of her Fall Lake Ballers series. Red Zone can be a standalone, as can books 1 and 2, but they each get even better with reading the series and learning all the extra bits and pieces about our characters.
Liam and Skye dated their freshman year of college and were pretty hot and heavy, but went their separate ways. He's known for being a star player and being in the eye of NFL scouts, as well as not having serious relationships - but he wonders if Skye is the one who got away. He is also nearly failing chemistry and risking his chances of staying eligible to be scouted if he doesn't get it together soon. As soon as he sees Skye on the sidelines, all of his thoughts, daydreams and doubts about her come back.
Skye has taken on the position of social media consultant with the team, knowing it would put her back in Liam's orbit, despite having a VERY big secret she hopes to continue to keep from him. She knew taking the internship for the team would give her more opportunities, but when she also starts tutoring Liam to stay eligible, their own chemistry really starts heating things up. Will Skye be able to keep her secret and keep herself safe?
Red Zone has suspense, romance, reconnection, chemistry, mystery and more. The characters are well fleshed out and enjoyable to cheer on. The mystery keeps you hanging on as well and leads to a surprising development. A great read!
Liam and Skye dated their freshman year of college and were pretty hot and heavy, but went their separate ways. He's known for being a star player and being in the eye of NFL scouts, as well as not having serious relationships - but he wonders if Skye is the one who got away. He is also nearly failing chemistry and risking his chances of staying eligible to be scouted if he doesn't get it together soon. As soon as he sees Skye on the sidelines, all of his thoughts, daydreams and doubts about her come back.
Skye has taken on the position of social media consultant with the team, knowing it would put her back in Liam's orbit, despite having a VERY big secret she hopes to continue to keep from him. She knew taking the internship for the team would give her more opportunities, but when she also starts tutoring Liam to stay eligible, their own chemistry really starts heating things up. Will Skye be able to keep her secret and keep herself safe?
Red Zone has suspense, romance, reconnection, chemistry, mystery and more. The characters are well fleshed out and enjoyable to cheer on. The mystery keeps you hanging on as well and leads to a surprising development. A great read!
June 4, 2025
Red Zone is book 3 in the series. Each book hits differently but they are all the same. These football players can be exactly that PLAYERS until they meet the one. This book is a second chance romance book. Liam and Skye dated a couple years ago. Liam and Skye both fell hard and fast. One day Skye had something important to tell Liam but he had just been yelled at by his couch to get his head in the game and not get distracted. When Skye approached him about there relationship it ended up being the end for them. They broke up and never saw eachother again until she was put as the person in charge of social
Media for the team. All those feelings come rushing back however, Skye needs to think of more than just herself now. She’s kept a big secret from Liam and she doesn’t know if or how she can ever tell him the truth. To make matters more complicated, Skye’s uncle who she lives with is also Liam’s coach.
Liam and Skye end up spending alot of time together getting to know eachother again. He even forms a special bond with her daughter. Will Skye be able to tell Liam the truth or will he be kept in the dark?
Also what happens when Skye never makes it home one night after leaving Liam’s family house? Will Liam be able to save 2 of the most important girls in his life ?
Not going to lie. This author could write just about anything and I’m sure I would love it. This book was great from beginning to end. Loved it!!!
Media for the team. All those feelings come rushing back however, Skye needs to think of more than just herself now. She’s kept a big secret from Liam and she doesn’t know if or how she can ever tell him the truth. To make matters more complicated, Skye’s uncle who she lives with is also Liam’s coach.
Liam and Skye end up spending alot of time together getting to know eachother again. He even forms a special bond with her daughter. Will Skye be able to tell Liam the truth or will he be kept in the dark?
Also what happens when Skye never makes it home one night after leaving Liam’s family house? Will Liam be able to save 2 of the most important girls in his life ?
Not going to lie. This author could write just about anything and I’m sure I would love it. This book was great from beginning to end. Loved it!!!
June 2, 2025
I couldn’t wait to jump into the next book in this series! I love this author! So I knew I would love whatever I got my hands on. Red Zone being no different. Liam is the next player to fall in these books, but this time there’s a lot more baggage and secrets to unfold. Secrets that in the end could make or break a relationship.
Liam is living his best football life. With no distractions from his focus, he’s determined to get draft by a professional team. That is till one day he literally runs into an old flame. Not just any old flame, the one who got away. Now he’s out to prove she made a mistake and their lives were better when they were there for each other. He doesn’t expect the bombshell she is keeping from him.
Skye thought she’d be able to avoid him. However when Liam legitimately ran into her that thought went out the window. With the feelings still there she had to push them down so she has to protect her heart and child from heartache. Despite Liam's best efforts she keeps him at bay.
What happens when Skye cracks?
What will Liam do when he finds out her biggest secret?
All that and a mystery of what happened to Jackson wrapped up into one book!
Is the Chemistry department involved?
As stated in the beginning this author is awesome. And if you’re not familiar you should dive right on in!
Liam is living his best football life. With no distractions from his focus, he’s determined to get draft by a professional team. That is till one day he literally runs into an old flame. Not just any old flame, the one who got away. Now he’s out to prove she made a mistake and their lives were better when they were there for each other. He doesn’t expect the bombshell she is keeping from him.
Skye thought she’d be able to avoid him. However when Liam legitimately ran into her that thought went out the window. With the feelings still there she had to push them down so she has to protect her heart and child from heartache. Despite Liam's best efforts she keeps him at bay.
What happens when Skye cracks?
What will Liam do when he finds out her biggest secret?
All that and a mystery of what happened to Jackson wrapped up into one book!
Is the Chemistry department involved?
As stated in the beginning this author is awesome. And if you’re not familiar you should dive right on in!
May 31, 2025
Liam was NFL bound since middle school. That was his dream. When Liam met Skye his freshman year of college, she was everything he needed but didn’t want. When Liam’s coach told him that he was distracted and blowing his chance, Liam did what he thought was best and told Skye that they had no future.
Skye had a decision to make. She just found out that she was pregnant. Liam just told her that they had no future. Skye made the choice not to tell Liam. For the next three years that decision made sense. When Skye becomes the Social Media Intern for the football team, she sees Liam again. Liam realizes that he never got over Skye. That Skye was and is still the one.
Skye, once again, has a decision to make. Does she tell Liam? Everyone says Liam has changed and is not the selfish kid he once was. Skye takes some time to get to know Liam again but the problem is their chemistry. It is off the charts whenever they are together. It is distracting to both. Will Liam ever find out about his daughter? Is he ready now?
The explosive dynamic between Skye and Liam heats the pages. This author nails another superior addition to a phenomenal series. The books are un-put-downable.
Skye had a decision to make. She just found out that she was pregnant. Liam just told her that they had no future. Skye made the choice not to tell Liam. For the next three years that decision made sense. When Skye becomes the Social Media Intern for the football team, she sees Liam again. Liam realizes that he never got over Skye. That Skye was and is still the one.
Skye, once again, has a decision to make. Does she tell Liam? Everyone says Liam has changed and is not the selfish kid he once was. Skye takes some time to get to know Liam again but the problem is their chemistry. It is off the charts whenever they are together. It is distracting to both. Will Liam ever find out about his daughter? Is he ready now?
The explosive dynamic between Skye and Liam heats the pages. This author nails another superior addition to a phenomenal series. The books are un-put-downable.
May 31, 2025
As she is finishing her degree, Skye takes on the role of social media intern. Hopefully being on the sidelines while her ex, Liam, continues to chase his NFL dreams won't be too big of a distraction. She needs to stay focused...because she is hiding quite the secret from Liam. However, when her new position finds her uncovering quite the scandal that could affect everyone around her...she is gonna need Liam on her side.
Liam has always been NFL bound. His freshman year, he broke up with his girlfriend, Skye, because he was told that she was distracting him from reaching his dreams. When she shows back up his senior year, he is filled with all sorts of emotions. He feels like she's hiding something...and finding out what it is will end up changing his whole life. Can he get past the secrets between them? And what happens when an even bigger secret comes to life that affects more than just these two?!?
I have enjoyed reading this series from the beginning. That being said, you do not have needed to read the previous books to understand what is happening. These characters will pull you in and make you a part of their world. There is spice and secrets...tension and drama...and, as promised, a HEA. Another great book in this series!
Liam has always been NFL bound. His freshman year, he broke up with his girlfriend, Skye, because he was told that she was distracting him from reaching his dreams. When she shows back up his senior year, he is filled with all sorts of emotions. He feels like she's hiding something...and finding out what it is will end up changing his whole life. Can he get past the secrets between them? And what happens when an even bigger secret comes to life that affects more than just these two?!?
I have enjoyed reading this series from the beginning. That being said, you do not have needed to read the previous books to understand what is happening. These characters will pull you in and make you a part of their world. There is spice and secrets...tension and drama...and, as promised, a HEA. Another great book in this series!
June 1, 2025
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance is the 3 book in the Fall Fake Ballers series, blending college romance, sports drama, and lots of heat. Centered around Liam Cartwright, the football star on the cusp of getting that sweet NFL contract, runs directly into Skylar Finley, the one who got away. She is back in town, with a small child and a broken marriage in her rearview mirror. She is now working for his team as the social media intern, and never expected to see Liam again. Long-buried secrets threaten to be aired as the chemistry between Skylar and Liam reignites. But with the past opening and Skylar’s secrets on the verge of ruining her second chance with Liam, will these two be able to work through the hurt and scandal to find a way to stay together?
I have always been a sucker for the second chance romance, and adding into the mix the single parent asepect and this story was just too great to pass up. I do wish I had read the other books in this series first, as the other characters do have spotlight moments in Red Zone, but not enough to derail the reading at all. If you are looking for a great read, with sports, rekindled love, and lots of spice, then this is the read for you!
I have always been a sucker for the second chance romance, and adding into the mix the single parent asepect and this story was just too great to pass up. I do wish I had read the other books in this series first, as the other characters do have spotlight moments in Red Zone, but not enough to derail the reading at all. If you are looking for a great read, with sports, rekindled love, and lots of spice, then this is the read for you!
June 4, 2025
Red Zone by Isla Vaughn
4 Stars
This is, the third instalment of the Fall Lake Ballers series. It is a blend of second-chance romance, sports drama, and suspense, set against the backdrop of college football. The novel mixes themes of ambition, secrecy, and redemption. The story follows Liam Cartwright, a star college quarterback on the cusp of an NFL career. His world is upended when Skylar Finley, his former college sweetheart, returns as the football team’s new social media intern. Unbeknownst to Liam, Skylar harbours a life-altering secret. As they navigate their rekindled relationship, a scandal involving performance-enhancing drugs threatens Liam’s future, forcing both to confront their past and the choices that could define their destinies . The story delves into the complexities of trust, the weight of secrets, and the challenges of balancing personal desires with professional aspirations. It includes as well the exploration of single parenthood, the pressures of collegiate athletics, and the intricacies of rekindled love. Red Zone explores love, ambition, and the courage to face one’s past. It’s a must-read for fans of sports romances that offer depth, drama, and heart.
4 Stars
This is, the third instalment of the Fall Lake Ballers series. It is a blend of second-chance romance, sports drama, and suspense, set against the backdrop of college football. The novel mixes themes of ambition, secrecy, and redemption. The story follows Liam Cartwright, a star college quarterback on the cusp of an NFL career. His world is upended when Skylar Finley, his former college sweetheart, returns as the football team’s new social media intern. Unbeknownst to Liam, Skylar harbours a life-altering secret. As they navigate their rekindled relationship, a scandal involving performance-enhancing drugs threatens Liam’s future, forcing both to confront their past and the choices that could define their destinies . The story delves into the complexities of trust, the weight of secrets, and the challenges of balancing personal desires with professional aspirations. It includes as well the exploration of single parenthood, the pressures of collegiate athletics, and the intricacies of rekindled love. Red Zone explores love, ambition, and the courage to face one’s past. It’s a must-read for fans of sports romances that offer depth, drama, and heart.
May 31, 2025
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Red Zone is Book 3 in the Fall Lake Ballers series and I was eagerly anticipating reading Liam and Skye's story and I devoured this book. I very highly recommend reading this series in order as characters are intertwined. Being a lover of sport romance, I loved the chemistry between Liam and Skye with some drama, past hurts, secrets and a definite roller coaster of emotions with a sprinkle of danger.
Liam and Skye had this connection...but when Skye asks for more of a future of being together, Liam is only focused with having his chance to make it to the NFL. Being apart for some time...Liam is at the top of his college football game when Skye returns and becoming the new social media manager for the football team. Liam wants Skye back....but secrets and betrayal come between Liam and Skye.....but also another danger is lurking in the corner when no one is prepared for. When the truth comes out of the secrets that Skye is keeping from Liam, will he be able to forgive.....and also be there for her when she needs him the most......
Definitely read and find out! Isla Vaughn is one of my favorite authors and I definitely recommend this series!!
Red Zone is Book 3 in the Fall Lake Ballers series and I was eagerly anticipating reading Liam and Skye's story and I devoured this book. I very highly recommend reading this series in order as characters are intertwined. Being a lover of sport romance, I loved the chemistry between Liam and Skye with some drama, past hurts, secrets and a definite roller coaster of emotions with a sprinkle of danger.
Liam and Skye had this connection...but when Skye asks for more of a future of being together, Liam is only focused with having his chance to make it to the NFL. Being apart for some time...Liam is at the top of his college football game when Skye returns and becoming the new social media manager for the football team. Liam wants Skye back....but secrets and betrayal come between Liam and Skye.....but also another danger is lurking in the corner when no one is prepared for. When the truth comes out of the secrets that Skye is keeping from Liam, will he be able to forgive.....and also be there for her when she needs him the most......
Definitely read and find out! Isla Vaughn is one of my favorite authors and I definitely recommend this series!!
May 31, 2025
Skye Finley is in her last year of college and has decided to work for the school's football team, helping her uncle with social media engagement, as part of her degree program. When her ex, and star player, Liam Cartwright literally runs into her on the side lines, he is irritated by her presence, and the memory of the way their relationship ended freshman year. What Liam doesn't know is that Skye broke up with him because he made it clear that his football career would always be the most important thing in his life, and she had just discovered that she was pregnant. The pair now share a daughter, Lily, and once Liam finds out about her, he wants nothing more than to be a part of her life. When a mystery on campus of drugs within the athletic and science departments, and the death of a player, gets dangerously close to Skye and Lily, Liam must put everything on the line to save what he values most. This book is a guaranteed HEA, as well as a mystery and a second chance love story that will leave you wanting to stay in this world forever. This book is book 3 in the Fall Lake Ballers series, but can absolutely be read as a stand-alone.
May 31, 2025
4 – 4.5 Stars
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance is the third book in the Fall Lake Ballers series by Isla Vaughn. This is a sports romance (football) with second chances, secrets, family, friendship, single parent, high stakes, suspense, chemistry, steam, challenges, drama, angst, emotion, and some forced proximity - with all the heartwarming touches that I have come to expect from Ms. Vaughn.
As I have said many times before, Ms. Vaughn never disappoints, and even though I was never a huge sports romance fan in the past, her books have helped me to come to love the genre, and I now look forward to reading every new release.
This is Skye and Liam’s story- they had a brief romance a few years earlier before football ambitions and big secrets pull them apart. But fate has drawn them into each other’s orbit again- their chemistry still simmers between them, but with his future career at stake and her big secret, things aren’t going to be smooth sailing. Fate seems to enjoy throwing a few curve balls their way. What ensues makes for an engrossing read…
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Isla Vaughn!
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance is the third book in the Fall Lake Ballers series by Isla Vaughn. This is a sports romance (football) with second chances, secrets, family, friendship, single parent, high stakes, suspense, chemistry, steam, challenges, drama, angst, emotion, and some forced proximity - with all the heartwarming touches that I have come to expect from Ms. Vaughn.
As I have said many times before, Ms. Vaughn never disappoints, and even though I was never a huge sports romance fan in the past, her books have helped me to come to love the genre, and I now look forward to reading every new release.
This is Skye and Liam’s story- they had a brief romance a few years earlier before football ambitions and big secrets pull them apart. But fate has drawn them into each other’s orbit again- their chemistry still simmers between them, but with his future career at stake and her big secret, things aren’t going to be smooth sailing. Fate seems to enjoy throwing a few curve balls their way. What ensues makes for an engrossing read…
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Isla Vaughn!
June 4, 2025
I love me a good sports romance, and this one did not disappoint.
Red Zone is the third book in the Fall Lake Baller Series, but in my opinion, it could be read as a standalone. However, I will be going back and reading the first two!!!
Red Zone follows Liam Cartwright and Skye Finley. Liam's teammates from the first two are also present.
Liam has always had one goal and one goal only, making it to the NFL, and he's on the right path. Until he collides with his past, literally, and his world is flipped upside down.
Skye is interning with the football team that is coached by her uncle and thought she could stay out of Liam's sight, but she was wrong.
Things were hot and heavy between the two their freshman year, but Liam had other plans which didn't include Skye. But with her return, Liam can't get her out of his head, but Skye has a secret that could disappoint everyone involved.
As they navigate old and new feelings, can Liam juggle both, a possible NFL career and a relationship with Skye?
And let's not forget the scandal that is hanging above the football team!
I will definitely be adding this author to my favorites!!!
Red Zone is the third book in the Fall Lake Baller Series, but in my opinion, it could be read as a standalone. However, I will be going back and reading the first two!!!
Red Zone follows Liam Cartwright and Skye Finley. Liam's teammates from the first two are also present.
Liam has always had one goal and one goal only, making it to the NFL, and he's on the right path. Until he collides with his past, literally, and his world is flipped upside down.
Skye is interning with the football team that is coached by her uncle and thought she could stay out of Liam's sight, but she was wrong.
Things were hot and heavy between the two their freshman year, but Liam had other plans which didn't include Skye. But with her return, Liam can't get her out of his head, but Skye has a secret that could disappoint everyone involved.
As they navigate old and new feelings, can Liam juggle both, a possible NFL career and a relationship with Skye?
And let's not forget the scandal that is hanging above the football team!
I will definitely be adding this author to my favorites!!!
June 8, 2025
Another great Fall Lakes University book. This is the third one in the series and delivers all that you have come to expect from Isla Vaughn. This is the story about Liam Cartwright and Skye Finley. Liam is in his senior year at school and is just trying to make his NFL dreams come to be. But school is taking a toll since he is not doing so well in his science class. With this being the case the coach has requested he start tutoring so he overcomes this hurdle. But it just happens that his tutor is the new intern for the team's social media platform as well as he ex-girlfriend, Skye. Thinking he would never see her again since breaking it off with her their freshman year. But all the feelings he has had seem to be stronger than they were before. Expect now Skye is also a single mother that would prefer to just be in the background and keep out of Liam's line of sight. Especially since the secret she has been hiding could tear apart everything she has held together. As well as any future she or Liam might have. Read this third book to see how their story plays out and get ready for the twists you know will be coming.
June 9, 2025
This is book three in the series and can be read as a stand alone but I highly recommend reading the others in the series because not only are they also amazing but it will help give insight into the characters as they all interact in each book. Each book in this series focuses on a different couple but the characters all make appearances in each story as the time line continues. This book centers on Skye and Liam. It has the second chance romance but not in the typical way that most books have it featured. The couple was hot and heavy their freshman year and it ended badly only to be forced together again later in college. It has everything that I love from this author, the push and pull, the steam, the banter between all the characters. The writing really makes you feel like you are a part of their group. This book is a very fast read because you won't want to put it down. I kept turning the pages to see what was going to happen and who was going to step in and give advice. I really enjoy reading this author and seeing what they will come up with next. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
May 30, 2025
This is the third book in this series which is just as great as the first two books. I highly recommend reading the previous books as well to help your enjoyment of this author’s writing skills. I enjoy this author’s ability to pull me into the characters' world with ease and keep me engaged to the end. This is a well written story about Skye and Liam. Their story is a second chance romance story like no other. Theirs was a college romance that ended up heart broken. Now they come face to face with Skye being Liam’s football team’s social media interim. Each of them have their own secret that could change everything for them. Will these two survive the secrets? I enjoyed both of these characters and how connectable they are. I enjoyed watching their growth throughout that made the story easy to read. They have great attraction and their chemistry is off the charts. This is a fast paced story that is hard to put down and one you don’t want to miss. I really enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend it.
May 31, 2025
The book that has everything we all love!Spice, drama, action, heart-break, frustration, and an HEA!? Yes please!
Liam has a reputation, he doesn't do relationships. He only focuses on football and making it to the NFL. Three years ago in his freshman year he dated Skye. He often wonders if she is the one that got away. Then one day, there she is on the sidelines at practice taking pictures for the team's social media page. And he realizes he still loves her. Skye did her best to stay as far away from Liam as she could the last three years since he broke her heart. There was only one thing on her mind. That was being the best mom she could to her daughter Lily. Taking this internship with the football team means she will put herself right back into his world. And boy did it. She not only has to see him on the field every day, but now she also has to tutor him that way he stays eligible to play. This book was great. The character development and the way the plot was driven was just wow.. If you love second-chance sports romance, this is the book for you!
Liam has a reputation, he doesn't do relationships. He only focuses on football and making it to the NFL. Three years ago in his freshman year he dated Skye. He often wonders if she is the one that got away. Then one day, there she is on the sidelines at practice taking pictures for the team's social media page. And he realizes he still loves her. Skye did her best to stay as far away from Liam as she could the last three years since he broke her heart. There was only one thing on her mind. That was being the best mom she could to her daughter Lily. Taking this internship with the football team means she will put herself right back into his world. And boy did it. She not only has to see him on the field every day, but now she also has to tutor him that way he stays eligible to play. This book was great. The character development and the way the plot was driven was just wow.. If you love second-chance sports romance, this is the book for you!
June 6, 2025
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance (Fall Lake Ballers Book 3) by Isla Vaughn. This is the 3rd book in the Fall Lake Ballers series. Its the story of Liam, a football player and Skylar who had a hot and heavy college romance but it ended very ugly. Skylar has walked back into Liam's life because his football team has hired her as their new Social Media Intern. Liam can't concentrate because he feels like Skylar is keeping something from him and he's messing up bad at practice and he can't keep doing that because his pro career is hanging in the balance. Skylar is nervous around Liam because she does have a couple of secrets that will rock Liam's world and one that could destroy his career. While Skylar is working for the team she digs into a issue she is seeing and she finds out some explosive information. What will she do with this information that could destroy the team and Liam's career. Skylar is a single mom trying to juggle her career, motherhood and a new romance with Liam. When she shares what she knows will it destroy her relationship and the team. I loved this book!
June 7, 2025
Another awesome book in the series, this is the third and maybe the last? This book followed the third roommate and friend on the football team. Liam is working hard on and off the field hoping for his big break into the NFL after he finishes college. Skye has taken an internship as the social media person for the football team. She and Liam dated for a few months years ago and she has returned as Liam’s coach’s niece with a big secret. Liam would love to rekindle what he had with Skye, he never really stopped having feelings for her but he also made a big mistake and told her football comes first. Now he is starting to doubt everything he said but he has a crap dad who is constantly on him and so negative. Skye is hesitant, not only because she never told Liam that she has a daughter, that is his, but she doesn’t trust him. Then bam, there is a twist, drug use, and everything is crazy. Liam is willing to risk everything to keep Skye and Lily safe, even if it costs him his dream if his coach finds out. Second change, hidden child, mystery, and romance, it was a great read!
June 13, 2025
I have read a few books from this author and she always blows my mind on her work. This is the third book of the amazing Fall Lake Ballers series. This book could be read as a stand alone but there are previous characters in this story as well. I absolutely love sports romance but this book exceeded my expectations yet again. You can’t help but to fall in love with these characters right from the beginning. I could not put this book down so it only took me a few hours to devour it. I can’t wait and see what she will write next.
Liam Cartwright loves his life. He is getting the attention of some NFL scouts and he feels like his dreams are coming true. Liam doesn’t do relationships at all but when the beautiful Skylar Finley comes back his feelings come back full force. She is a social media intern and she is to dig up everything, the good and the bad. Liam is on thin ice with his coach and a secret could destroy him. Will Liam get his dream or will his life turn into a nightmare?
Liam Cartwright loves his life. He is getting the attention of some NFL scouts and he feels like his dreams are coming true. Liam doesn’t do relationships at all but when the beautiful Skylar Finley comes back his feelings come back full force. She is a social media intern and she is to dig up everything, the good and the bad. Liam is on thin ice with his coach and a secret could destroy him. Will Liam get his dream or will his life turn into a nightmare?
June 21, 2025
This is the third book in the series and can be read as a stand alone, however I do suggest reading at least Quarterback keeper (1st book) before reading this one.
When I read Quartback Keeper, Liam quickly became my favorite side character. When i found out he was going to have his own book i waited impatiently for it, but it was well worth it!
Just like the first two, this book has romance, plot, and twist, and boy i was here for it all.
Skye is the one who got away. Now that her and Liam have been reunited, they both have to work through a lot and let each other back in…all while dealing with the mysteries 💀. Can Liam get over the betrayal and forgive Skye? Will Skye put her walls down and fully let Liam in?
Better hurry up and read this amazing book to find out, I promise its worth it!
P.S - just like the first two books there is spice. If you dont want to read spice just skip those scenes and still give this book a try.
Welcome to my never ending list of book boyfriends Liam.
May 31, 2025
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance (Fall Lake Ballers Book 3)
Liam's story is the one i have been waiting for since I finished the last book. I could not wait to get this started and I wasn't disappointed.
Liam the star receiver of the team is enjoying college but now that his buddies have found love he realizes that he is lonely and feeling like a fifth wheel when everyone is home.
Skye and Liam dated their freshman year but eventually broke up, she disappeared from Liam's life then, but ends up running into him or rather he literally runs into her after three years.
This story of course has to have a little bit of suspense thrown in. I think I changed my mind about who a few times before the reveal.
This was a nice bow on top of this series and will miss this group. Once again Ms. Vaughn has delivered a book I had a hard time putting down. Can't wait to see what she has in store for us in the future.
Liam's story is the one i have been waiting for since I finished the last book. I could not wait to get this started and I wasn't disappointed.
Liam the star receiver of the team is enjoying college but now that his buddies have found love he realizes that he is lonely and feeling like a fifth wheel when everyone is home.
Skye and Liam dated their freshman year but eventually broke up, she disappeared from Liam's life then, but ends up running into him or rather he literally runs into her after three years.
This story of course has to have a little bit of suspense thrown in. I think I changed my mind about who a few times before the reveal.
This was a nice bow on top of this series and will miss this group. Once again Ms. Vaughn has delivered a book I had a hard time putting down. Can't wait to see what she has in store for us in the future.
June 2, 2025
An Emotional Touchdown!
Red Zone by Isla Vaughn is everything I love about sports romance—heart-pounding stakes, sizzling chemistry, and characters that feel so real you want to cheer (and cry) for them. As someone who’s read multiple books by Isla Vaughn, I can honestly say she’s at the top of her game with this one.
Liam and Skylar’s story is a second-chance romance packed with secrets, scandal, and soul. Vaughn masterfully weaves together the high-stakes world of college football with the raw vulnerability of single motherhood and first love. The tension is electric, the emotional beats hit hard, and the twists kept me hooked until the final whistle.
This isn’t just a sports romance—it’s a story about integrity, sacrifice, and what it really means to fight for the people you love. Isla Vaughn scores big again, and Red Zone is a must-read for fans of angsty, heartfelt romance with a gripping edge.
Touchdown, Isla. You’ve done it again.
Red Zone by Isla Vaughn is everything I love about sports romance—heart-pounding stakes, sizzling chemistry, and characters that feel so real you want to cheer (and cry) for them. As someone who’s read multiple books by Isla Vaughn, I can honestly say she’s at the top of her game with this one.
Liam and Skylar’s story is a second-chance romance packed with secrets, scandal, and soul. Vaughn masterfully weaves together the high-stakes world of college football with the raw vulnerability of single motherhood and first love. The tension is electric, the emotional beats hit hard, and the twists kept me hooked until the final whistle.
This isn’t just a sports romance—it’s a story about integrity, sacrifice, and what it really means to fight for the people you love. Isla Vaughn scores big again, and Red Zone is a must-read for fans of angsty, heartfelt romance with a gripping edge.
Touchdown, Isla. You’ve done it again.
June 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this sports romance which kept me happily reading past my bedtime! With NFL scouts watching the future Liam wants is within reach, but then he’s distracted by Skylar coming back into his life. Skye and Liam’s college romance ended in heartbreak for them both, and she hadn’t planned on returning to her Alma mater, especially not with a daughter that he doesn’t know exists. Things become even more complicated when as the football team’s social media intern Skye uncovers a dangerous conspiracy and suspicious activities within the team . Liam finds himself having to make decisions which could end his NFL career before its started, or risk losing Skylar again. I loved both Skye and Liam’s characters and their chemistry sizzled off the page, leading to some steamy scenes. The storyline had plenty of drama, suspense and romance to keep me hooked throughout. I love a guaranteed HEA!
June 9, 2025
This author just keeps me coming back for more...
Liam is at the top of his career...NFL scouts are watching his dreams are within reach and in walks a blast from freshman year past...Skye.
Skye has avoided everything Liam for 3 years as Liam was all football and nothing else and she didnt want to drag him down but she walked away with a massive earth shattering secret.
So when Skye takes an internship with the football team doing social media work she knows shes playing with fire and it gets worse when Liam needs a chemistry tutor and that becomes Skye. Their natural chemistry heats up and Liam naturally develops a lot of questions... can these two survive their second chance and let go of hurt, and survive secrets and take ahold of their dreams while still holding onto one another or has it been too long and was this secret too big?
This author will keep you on the edge of your seat while this story unfolds.
Liam is at the top of his career...NFL scouts are watching his dreams are within reach and in walks a blast from freshman year past...Skye.
Skye has avoided everything Liam for 3 years as Liam was all football and nothing else and she didnt want to drag him down but she walked away with a massive earth shattering secret.
So when Skye takes an internship with the football team doing social media work she knows shes playing with fire and it gets worse when Liam needs a chemistry tutor and that becomes Skye. Their natural chemistry heats up and Liam naturally develops a lot of questions... can these two survive their second chance and let go of hurt, and survive secrets and take ahold of their dreams while still holding onto one another or has it been too long and was this secret too big?
This author will keep you on the edge of your seat while this story unfolds.
June 15, 2025
Wow this book was such a great mix of sports drama, second-chance romance, and real emotional depth. I wasn’t expecting to be so drawn into Liam and Skye’s story, but Isla Vaughn really delivered! That twist pulled me right in, and the tension between them was off the charts from the start. Skye was such a strong character. She’s juggling so much—motherhood, a tough internship, and dealing with Liam after so long apart. And Liam... I felt for him. His struggle between chasing his NFL dream and doing the right thing added so much depth. There’s definitely steam (as you’d expect from this series!), but also heartache, forgiveness, and real growth. The ending left me completely satisfied with no cliffhangers, just a well-earned HEA. I think this might be my favorite in the Fall Lake Ballers series so far. Highly recommended if you’re looking for an emotional sports romance that keeps you turning the pages.
June 20, 2025
Red Zone: A College Sports Romance (Fall Lake Ballers Book 3) by Isla Vaughn is a great sport romance series
The end zone has never been farther away, and the stakes have never been higher. A run-in with the past threatens to ruin everything as rising football star Jace tries to maintain his NFL dreams. Jace is at a crossroads where every choice he makes could affect his future since he is entangled in a perilous web of falsehoods, performance-enhancing substances, and upsetting truths. Complicating matters further is his reunion with Skylar, his first love and the one who escaped. They are inextricably linked, yet trusting one another may be the greatest risk of all given the reopening of ancient scars and the imminence of new threats.
Every page was exciting, and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. The story really brings excitement into your life. I couldn’t put the book down. I can't wait to read from this author.
The end zone has never been farther away, and the stakes have never been higher. A run-in with the past threatens to ruin everything as rising football star Jace tries to maintain his NFL dreams. Jace is at a crossroads where every choice he makes could affect his future since he is entangled in a perilous web of falsehoods, performance-enhancing substances, and upsetting truths. Complicating matters further is his reunion with Skylar, his first love and the one who escaped. They are inextricably linked, yet trusting one another may be the greatest risk of all given the reopening of ancient scars and the imminence of new threats.
Every page was exciting, and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. The story really brings excitement into your life. I couldn’t put the book down. I can't wait to read from this author.
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