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Sports in the Sunshine State RomComs #2
Off the Bench: A Sweet & Clean Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine Football Romantic Comedy
Austin Taylor, once an undrafted free agent and a third-string quarterback, was never supposed to be the starting QB for the Tampa Bay Bucs.
Except now, he is.
Dani Marshall, the Bucs’ data analyst whiz, is all in—betting her career, and even her car, on Austin's success. The real challenge? Keeping her heart out of the game.
Austin
When the achingly gorgeous Dani Marshall shows up in my tiny Ohio town to sign me to the Bucs, I can't say no. I expect to ride the bench in obscurity for my entire NFL career. What I don't expect is to become the starting QB in my first month—or to end up as a viral GIF, tripping over my cleats.
Dani's betting on me, but I'm starting to think her faith might be misplaced. The closer we get, the more her walls stay mile-high—even as I’m being pulled to her as surely as the moon pulls the tides.
Dani
Research shows that spending time together and sharing personal goals increases the likelihood of developing romantic feelings by 30%. (I will not be part of this statistic. I will not be part of this statistic. I will NOT be part… oh crap.)
After I sign Austin Taylor to the Bucs, I make it my mission to stay away from him—he's too attractive for me, and, as an absolute rule, I don't date athletes. Not after what happened last time.
But when I make a bet with my work nemesis over Austin Taylor's performance, my car is on the line. Now I have to get involved.
The problem? The more I work with Austin Taylor, the more afraid I am that he's going to steal my heart.
This is the first novel in the Sports in the Sunshine State RomCom a collection of interconnected, clean sports romances, each featuring its own unique love story. While all books are linked, they can be enjoyed as standalones. You’ll enjoy high-action sports sequences, sizzling chemistry, with no cursing or smut.
Except now, he is.
Dani Marshall, the Bucs’ data analyst whiz, is all in—betting her career, and even her car, on Austin's success. The real challenge? Keeping her heart out of the game.
Austin
When the achingly gorgeous Dani Marshall shows up in my tiny Ohio town to sign me to the Bucs, I can't say no. I expect to ride the bench in obscurity for my entire NFL career. What I don't expect is to become the starting QB in my first month—or to end up as a viral GIF, tripping over my cleats.
Dani's betting on me, but I'm starting to think her faith might be misplaced. The closer we get, the more her walls stay mile-high—even as I’m being pulled to her as surely as the moon pulls the tides.
Dani
Research shows that spending time together and sharing personal goals increases the likelihood of developing romantic feelings by 30%. (I will not be part of this statistic. I will not be part of this statistic. I will NOT be part… oh crap.)
After I sign Austin Taylor to the Bucs, I make it my mission to stay away from him—he's too attractive for me, and, as an absolute rule, I don't date athletes. Not after what happened last time.
But when I make a bet with my work nemesis over Austin Taylor's performance, my car is on the line. Now I have to get involved.
The problem? The more I work with Austin Taylor, the more afraid I am that he's going to steal my heart.
This is the first novel in the Sports in the Sunshine State RomCom a collection of interconnected, clean sports romances, each featuring its own unique love story. While all books are linked, they can be enjoyed as standalones. You’ll enjoy high-action sports sequences, sizzling chemistry, with no cursing or smut.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2024
24 people are currently reading
420 people want to read
About the author
Tiffany Noelle Chacon
12 books101 followersTiffany was riding horses before she could walk. She's a five-time IAHA national champion and competed regularly at the Winter Equestrian Festival with her gentle giant, Obi-Wan. She received her Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Tampa. This is her debut novel - an outpouring of her love for horses, and her love for love. She lives in Tampa with her middle-school sweetheart and her two wild and crazy sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
October 27, 2024
This book is amazing!! I haven’t finished a book in one sitting in forever but this one I did!
For a sports romcom this checked off all the boxes:
Plenty of high action football scenes
Scenes that made me laugh out loud (I’m looking at you Yoga)
Fantastic Banter
Wonderful tension between Dani and Austin
Perfect kissing scenes
Great family dynamics
Character Growth
I could go on and on! Literally if I could give this book 10 stars I would!
The MMC Austin is the perfect sunshine cinnamon roll. But he also feels so grounded and trustworthy. You just want the best for him and want to believe in him as much as Dani does. I love that he also still had his struggles with self confidence and finding who he was. He wasn’t just a NFL quarterback who had his whole life put together. He had to have grit, determination and work hard for everything, even winning Dani’s heart.
The FMC Dani is the grumpy to Austin’s sunshine with a brilliant mind of a NFL analyst. She has rough edges and is all business. And yet there is a spark between Dani and Austin right off the bat that she tries valiantly to not encourage. I loved that we got to see the real Dani and to see her go through pivotal moments of growth and healing.
Their chemistry, banter, and tension was perfection and I couldn’t get enough of them together. I love how they just wanted the best for each other and worked hard in both their professions.
I also loved that Tiffany put so much work and effort to get all the football plays, terminology, and scenes done flawlessly. With a super NFL fan hubby he would be impressed by the football scenes Tiffany wrote. They pull you into the game and even a non football fan will be cheering for Dani and Austin’s team.
If you are looking for a perfectly sweet sports romcom with wonderful MCs, high action football and moments to make you laugh out loud and even cry. Give this one a go ASAP!!!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2
Zero Swearing
Dual 1st Person POV
For a sports romcom this checked off all the boxes:
Plenty of high action football scenes
Scenes that made me laugh out loud (I’m looking at you Yoga)
Fantastic Banter
Wonderful tension between Dani and Austin
Perfect kissing scenes
Great family dynamics
Character Growth
I could go on and on! Literally if I could give this book 10 stars I would!
The MMC Austin is the perfect sunshine cinnamon roll. But he also feels so grounded and trustworthy. You just want the best for him and want to believe in him as much as Dani does. I love that he also still had his struggles with self confidence and finding who he was. He wasn’t just a NFL quarterback who had his whole life put together. He had to have grit, determination and work hard for everything, even winning Dani’s heart.
The FMC Dani is the grumpy to Austin’s sunshine with a brilliant mind of a NFL analyst. She has rough edges and is all business. And yet there is a spark between Dani and Austin right off the bat that she tries valiantly to not encourage. I loved that we got to see the real Dani and to see her go through pivotal moments of growth and healing.
Their chemistry, banter, and tension was perfection and I couldn’t get enough of them together. I love how they just wanted the best for each other and worked hard in both their professions.
I also loved that Tiffany put so much work and effort to get all the football plays, terminology, and scenes done flawlessly. With a super NFL fan hubby he would be impressed by the football scenes Tiffany wrote. They pull you into the game and even a non football fan will be cheering for Dani and Austin’s team.
If you are looking for a perfectly sweet sports romcom with wonderful MCs, high action football and moments to make you laugh out loud and even cry. Give this one a go ASAP!!!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2
Zero Swearing
Dual 1st Person POV
December 15, 2024
This was a cute easy read and flowed well.
I loved the whole grumpy x sunshine reversed also.
Dani and Austin are super cute, Austin is like a puppy and so eager to please and that makes it so nice.
Thank you netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved the whole grumpy x sunshine reversed also.
Dani and Austin are super cute, Austin is like a puppy and so eager to please and that makes it so nice.
Thank you netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 15, 2024
LOVED IT
This is a true sports romance story and I am OBSESSED.
I loved all the football scenes, the plays, the stats, the inclusion of Austin experiencing a game. It was awesome and really brought in a lot of fun to the game. I want to actually watch a football game with Austin as quarterback after this!
Don't even get me started on how awesome Dani is. She was amazing! I loved that she was a person of color. Totally jealous of her braids!
There was so much growth between Austin and Dani and I loved their relationship journey but also how they both grew in confidence and in their jobs and positions.
The build up to the first kiss was totally worth it because 🔥🔥🔥 the romance is soooo swoony whole staying at the just kisses level.
Love love love! This will definitely be a book I'll read every football season!;
💋Kisses
⚠️Dani lost her mother at a young age and her dad remarried. Emotional struggles from that experience are mentioned.
🍷characters do drink alcohol, main characters drink responsibly
This is a true sports romance story and I am OBSESSED.
I loved all the football scenes, the plays, the stats, the inclusion of Austin experiencing a game. It was awesome and really brought in a lot of fun to the game. I want to actually watch a football game with Austin as quarterback after this!
Don't even get me started on how awesome Dani is. She was amazing! I loved that she was a person of color. Totally jealous of her braids!
There was so much growth between Austin and Dani and I loved their relationship journey but also how they both grew in confidence and in their jobs and positions.
The build up to the first kiss was totally worth it because 🔥🔥🔥 the romance is soooo swoony whole staying at the just kisses level.
Love love love! This will definitely be a book I'll read every football season!;
💋Kisses
⚠️Dani lost her mother at a young age and her dad remarried. Emotional struggles from that experience are mentioned.
🍷characters do drink alcohol, main characters drink responsibly
February 28, 2025
3.5 Stars
Kindle Unlimited
This was a cute story but I felt like it was lacking something. Almost like I wanted more!
Kindle Unlimited
This was a cute story but I felt like it was lacking something. Almost like I wanted more!
January 14, 2025
If you like sport romance with actual football knowledge and realistic sports scenes included, run and get this book. I loved it! Let me get into my review.
Dani is a Jr. Analyst for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. She is rare in her field, a woman with advanced football knowledge. She is nervous during her first season and first draft with the Buccaneers and advocates hard to draft a quarterback that her stats tell her has great potential. She is overruled in the room but she is given permission to go make him an offer as their 3rd string QB. Austin, is not expecting to be drafted let alone exception someone to show up to his hometown to sign him and he takes Dani and the Bucs up on their offer. He sees very little practice time but when the newly drafted Second String QB gets suspended and the Starting QB has a season ending injury, Austin gets is shot.
There is so much more to this book than football, (although I do love a good sports romance that actually incorporates sports scenes in a real and realistic way and this book does that well). Dani is a woman in a male dominated position, she is also dealing with some self esteem issues from a past bad relationship with a football player and some unresolved issues around her mother’s death and her father’s remarriage and new family. Austin also has some self esteem issues around his talent as a football player and whether or not he deserves to be in the NFL at all. What I loved about this book is that Dani’s unwavering faith in Austin’s abilities pulls them both out of their comfort zones. This is a slow burn read but in the very best of ways. I loved the growth of both Dani and Austin throughout this book. This the first book I have read by this author but it definitely won’t be my last. Loved everything about this book it including the realistic mentions of black hair and issues from not just a female but also a black female perspective a realistic way that enhancing the story. Great read!!
Dani is a Jr. Analyst for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. She is rare in her field, a woman with advanced football knowledge. She is nervous during her first season and first draft with the Buccaneers and advocates hard to draft a quarterback that her stats tell her has great potential. She is overruled in the room but she is given permission to go make him an offer as their 3rd string QB. Austin, is not expecting to be drafted let alone exception someone to show up to his hometown to sign him and he takes Dani and the Bucs up on their offer. He sees very little practice time but when the newly drafted Second String QB gets suspended and the Starting QB has a season ending injury, Austin gets is shot.
There is so much more to this book than football, (although I do love a good sports romance that actually incorporates sports scenes in a real and realistic way and this book does that well). Dani is a woman in a male dominated position, she is also dealing with some self esteem issues from a past bad relationship with a football player and some unresolved issues around her mother’s death and her father’s remarriage and new family. Austin also has some self esteem issues around his talent as a football player and whether or not he deserves to be in the NFL at all. What I loved about this book is that Dani’s unwavering faith in Austin’s abilities pulls them both out of their comfort zones. This is a slow burn read but in the very best of ways. I loved the growth of both Dani and Austin throughout this book. This the first book I have read by this author but it definitely won’t be my last. Loved everything about this book it including the realistic mentions of black hair and issues from not just a female but also a black female perspective a realistic way that enhancing the story. Great read!!
November 16, 2024
This was my first football romance, and it was great. Being a Brit, football to me is what Americans call soccer so it took me a while to get used to that terminology without getting confused but I definitely enjoyed this romance.
Austin has to be the sweetest guy in the world. He is charming, unassuming and laidback. He is a gentleman and a sweetheart. He’s pretty much resigned himself to not being called up, and then when he is, he’s happy to get paid to sit on the bench, never thinking he’ll play one game when suddenly, thanks to accidents and rehabs, he’s the starting quarterback. His team are counting on him to help them land the title and the Superbowl and the team’s statistician Dani Marshall is counting on him to save her reputation and her car. He’s nervous about being thrust into a starting position suddenly and in a spotlight but he also knows his strengths and with Dani on his side to help him learn the plays, he steps up to the task.
Dani is determined not to fall for (another) footballer but the more time she spends helping Austin and just being around him means he gets through her defences and she begins to like him more and more until she’s completely smitten with him. She’s so confident in every other aspect of her life but she won’t trust her heart with a footballer even though he’s perfect for her.
The relationship between them was sweet and endearing, a real feel-good story and the book was a gentle, warm hug of a read.
Austin has to be the sweetest guy in the world. He is charming, unassuming and laidback. He is a gentleman and a sweetheart. He’s pretty much resigned himself to not being called up, and then when he is, he’s happy to get paid to sit on the bench, never thinking he’ll play one game when suddenly, thanks to accidents and rehabs, he’s the starting quarterback. His team are counting on him to help them land the title and the Superbowl and the team’s statistician Dani Marshall is counting on him to save her reputation and her car. He’s nervous about being thrust into a starting position suddenly and in a spotlight but he also knows his strengths and with Dani on his side to help him learn the plays, he steps up to the task.
Dani is determined not to fall for (another) footballer but the more time she spends helping Austin and just being around him means he gets through her defences and she begins to like him more and more until she’s completely smitten with him. She’s so confident in every other aspect of her life but she won’t trust her heart with a footballer even though he’s perfect for her.
The relationship between them was sweet and endearing, a real feel-good story and the book was a gentle, warm hug of a read.
November 12, 2024
Actual rating is a 4.5 star. The moment I heard football, I was sold! I’m an avid Denver Broncos fan and I fell in love with this book. Tiffany began every chapter heading by explaining different statistics or football terminology which I loved! 🙌 Austin and Dani were adorable and I loved watching the two fall in love. I was getting A Cinderella Story vibes towards the end of the story since Austin was a quarterback and the ending. 🤭 I also loved watching Dani get the respect and spotlight in the male dominated environment. I want to see so many more women in sports and this was empowering! I would recommend this read for romance and sports readers. Very cute and fast paced book! I look forward to the next book!
November 16, 2024
My first full sports romance 🏈 ❤️
Tiffany did an amazing job capturing my attention from the very beginning. I am not a football girl! But I truly enjoyed the romance between Dani and Austin.
Dani is in a league of her own. One of the one female data analysts in the NFL and black! She proudly wears her title, braids and heels. She only has one rule! Don’t date the players!!
Until she meets Austin. Austin doesn’t get what he wants but gets what he needs when Dani shows up during wings.
This book was completely clean, a few kisses but I enjoyed the way the author handled the story. The banter and friendship was pure and amazing.
I look forward to reading more from this author. Thank you for allowing me to review this book, all opinions are my own.
Content warnings:
Grief
Tiffany did an amazing job capturing my attention from the very beginning. I am not a football girl! But I truly enjoyed the romance between Dani and Austin.
Dani is in a league of her own. One of the one female data analysts in the NFL and black! She proudly wears her title, braids and heels. She only has one rule! Don’t date the players!!
Until she meets Austin. Austin doesn’t get what he wants but gets what he needs when Dani shows up during wings.
This book was completely clean, a few kisses but I enjoyed the way the author handled the story. The banter and friendship was pure and amazing.
I look forward to reading more from this author. Thank you for allowing me to review this book, all opinions are my own.
Content warnings:
Grief
December 28, 2024
This was the slowest slow burn I have ever read and I ATE it up!
There was a lot of football talk which I couldn’t understand but obviously it’s a book about football, so you win some and you lose some.
If you are looking for a no spice, sweet romance then this is the book for you. Dani and Austin were adorable and the way their story bloomed was perfect.
Thank you to Netgalley, Tiffany Noelle Chacon and Write Horse Publishing for this Earc 🫶
There was a lot of football talk which I couldn’t understand but obviously it’s a book about football, so you win some and you lose some.
If you are looking for a no spice, sweet romance then this is the book for you. Dani and Austin were adorable and the way their story bloomed was perfect.
Thank you to Netgalley, Tiffany Noelle Chacon and Write Horse Publishing for this Earc 🫶
January 5, 2025
Ｅｂｏｏｋ Ｒｅｖｉｅｗ
4 ☆
Austin Taylor, once an undrafted free agent and a third-string quarterback, was never supposed to be the starting QB for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Except now, he is. Dani Marshall, the Buccaneers' data analyst whiz, is all in—betting her career.
I actually enjoyed this story! The romance was super cute, and sometimes you just want a clean romance, and this is definitely that!
Thank you, Netgellay, and White Horse Publishing for the ebook in exchange for my honest review.
4 ☆
Austin Taylor, once an undrafted free agent and a third-string quarterback, was never supposed to be the starting QB for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Except now, he is. Dani Marshall, the Buccaneers' data analyst whiz, is all in—betting her career.
I actually enjoyed this story! The romance was super cute, and sometimes you just want a clean romance, and this is definitely that!
Thank you, Netgellay, and White Horse Publishing for the ebook in exchange for my honest review.
December 31, 2024
i aboustly love this book ! i finsihed in one setting. MMC Austin,he is just perfect sunshine cinnamon roll but he does feel grounded and trustworthy. FMC Dani, she is grumpt to Austin's sunshine but have a brilliant mind of a NFL analyst. I love their chemistry, banter and tension was just perfect! I just love them
December 7, 2024
A clean and heartwarming love story is exactly what I needed. The story is not what I expected, but so much more.
December 12, 2024
4.25 stars. Read this entire book on a whim in almost one sitting. This book has single-handedly redeemed sports romances for me.
May 8, 2025
I did enjoy the book even though I'm not normally a romance reader. I will say it was nice to read a book where a woman in business who comments about sexism in the industry actually has to deal with it at some point. I feel often I am reading the lady leads spend an awfully lot of time talking about their struggles, but you never actually see it. This did a good job of seeing not telling.
May 16, 2025
I don't know what addictive awesome sauce Tiffany puts in her books but I could not put this down and read it in about a day! I was really invested in seeing Austin succeed like Dani was sure he could, and seeing Dani let down her walls and let Austin in. I loved seeing their growing friendship and support for each other.
Austin is such a humble, sweet, and caring character. Dani is a strong, determined, and confident woman, driven to succeed in a field dominated by men.
I really liked the stats and definitions at the beginning of each chapter. I know next to nothing about American football, and these little tidbits of information were really interesting and helpful to my understanding and enjoyment of this book. Tiffany did a great job describing the action during the games, which were really immersive. I'm sure if I knew more (anything?) about the sport I would appreciate her attention to detail even more.
I loved the cameo of Luke and Anya and the Equine Assisted Therapy that made it into this book! The Equestrian Dreams series is also a wonderful, heartfelt sports romance read.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Austin is such a humble, sweet, and caring character. Dani is a strong, determined, and confident woman, driven to succeed in a field dominated by men.
I really liked the stats and definitions at the beginning of each chapter. I know next to nothing about American football, and these little tidbits of information were really interesting and helpful to my understanding and enjoyment of this book. Tiffany did a great job describing the action during the games, which were really immersive. I'm sure if I knew more (anything?) about the sport I would appreciate her attention to detail even more.
I loved the cameo of Luke and Anya and the Equine Assisted Therapy that made it into this book! The Equestrian Dreams series is also a wonderful, heartfelt sports romance read.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 25, 2024
Is a sweet opposites attract, work place, football rom-com with no cliffhanger.
I love that she throws in football info at the start of Austin's chapters: Turnover: A turnover in football occurs when a team loses possession of the ball to the opposing team, either through a fumble or an interception. This is a critical error as it immediately halts the team’s offensive drive and gives the opposing team an opportunity to score. Turnovers are often momentum shifting plays that can significantly impact the outcome of a game. -- This is very helpful since I know very little about football.
Some of the lines I really like ---- Realistic schm-ealistic. You’ve got skills, man. Someone’s gonna notice. ---- “Hey, it’s the Elusive Dani Marshall,” I say because I’m an idiot and that’s what popped into my head. ---- “Oh but darlin’ the chemistry is where all the magic presides. What if you meet them in person and there’s no chemistry? Then all your data,” she waves a hand like “data” is a strange term, “would be useless.” ---- this could be my time to shine, my chance to prove myself. ---- “Behind Every Great Team is a Data Analyst with Coffee.” ---- “It’s a challenge, no doubt. The pressure is intense. But I’ve got to focus and learn from my mistakes. Today was a tough day, but we’ll keep pushing forward.” ---- “Sometimes you just have to borrow other people’s faith in you. And I’ve got plenty to share.” ----- “And one day you’re going to realize that the numbers are never wrong. And since I’m always on the side of the numbers, I’m never wrong.” ---- “Dude, under what circumstances am I actually slathering myself in peanut butter and hopping in a lake with alligators?” ---- “He said he felt uncomfortable with the idea of his mom being in the grocery checkout with his oiled up, half-naked body right in her face.” ------ “All the dots are real—both your dots and mine are technically accurate. But it’s a choice how we connect them. We each decide which dots are most important. And why not choose the positive ones, instead of the negative?” ---- "But love is what makes life sweet. Don’t be like me, waiting too long.” ---- “Why does it matter what people are saying about you if they don’t even know you?” ---- "you can’t control what people say about you. You can only control your response. So, what’s your response going to be? Are you going to let yourself be victimized or are you going to stand up and fight?” ----
What's with Ethan? Who's @Gridirongeek? These and other questions will all be answered.
I loved Dani and Austin's story and I'm sure you will too. I've loved everyone of her books that I've read and can't wait to read her next book.
I love that she throws in football info at the start of Austin's chapters: Turnover: A turnover in football occurs when a team loses possession of the ball to the opposing team, either through a fumble or an interception. This is a critical error as it immediately halts the team’s offensive drive and gives the opposing team an opportunity to score. Turnovers are often momentum shifting plays that can significantly impact the outcome of a game. -- This is very helpful since I know very little about football.
Some of the lines I really like ---- Realistic schm-ealistic. You’ve got skills, man. Someone’s gonna notice. ---- “Hey, it’s the Elusive Dani Marshall,” I say because I’m an idiot and that’s what popped into my head. ---- “Oh but darlin’ the chemistry is where all the magic presides. What if you meet them in person and there’s no chemistry? Then all your data,” she waves a hand like “data” is a strange term, “would be useless.” ---- this could be my time to shine, my chance to prove myself. ---- “Behind Every Great Team is a Data Analyst with Coffee.” ---- “It’s a challenge, no doubt. The pressure is intense. But I’ve got to focus and learn from my mistakes. Today was a tough day, but we’ll keep pushing forward.” ---- “Sometimes you just have to borrow other people’s faith in you. And I’ve got plenty to share.” ----- “And one day you’re going to realize that the numbers are never wrong. And since I’m always on the side of the numbers, I’m never wrong.” ---- “Dude, under what circumstances am I actually slathering myself in peanut butter and hopping in a lake with alligators?” ---- “He said he felt uncomfortable with the idea of his mom being in the grocery checkout with his oiled up, half-naked body right in her face.” ------ “All the dots are real—both your dots and mine are technically accurate. But it’s a choice how we connect them. We each decide which dots are most important. And why not choose the positive ones, instead of the negative?” ---- "But love is what makes life sweet. Don’t be like me, waiting too long.” ---- “Why does it matter what people are saying about you if they don’t even know you?” ---- "you can’t control what people say about you. You can only control your response. So, what’s your response going to be? Are you going to let yourself be victimized or are you going to stand up and fight?” ----
What's with Ethan? Who's @Gridirongeek? These and other questions will all be answered.
I loved Dani and Austin's story and I'm sure you will too. I've loved everyone of her books that I've read and can't wait to read her next book.
November 15, 2024
Off The Bench? More like…off the hook!
Where’s this author been all my life? Not only am I left with an insatiable desire to watch TONS of football, but I’m also currently buying up all her backlist - because this book scored touchdown after touchdown!
Ms. Chacon mastered the plot, chemistry, romance, friendships, and beautiful family dynamics, but she also nailed the heart-pumping actions scenes! This book was one pic-six after another!
Warning: Do not start this story till you’ve got a few hours to burn - because you will NOT want to put it down. Dani and Austin were endearing on their own (great job, Ms. Chacon, with backstory), but they were even better together; and watching their story play out was highly entertaining. (Also, great play action on the side characters, I literally could not get enough - his family, her family, her BFFs, Ethan and her other coworkers, his teammates, Omar and Caleb, I could go on and on. The banter, the rivalries, the friendships, all top-notch!)
Notable Quotables:
- Research shows that spending time together and sharing personal goals increases the likelihood of developing romantic feelings by 30%. (I will not be part of this statistic. I will not be part of this statistic. I will NOT be part... oh crap.)
- Dani strikes me as the kind of person that needs to be coaxed into opening up. Slowly, gently. Like a rare flower blooming in the dead of night.
- I am breathless yet he’s giving me life. I am swept away by the current that is Austin Taylor, and yet he’s anchoring me in place. I’ve never experienced anything like this before—and I never want this with anyone else other than Austin Taylor.
- That’s what life is about too: it’s about getting up when you fall, it’s about pushing through when the odds are stacked against you. It’s about believing in yourself and believing in others. And when the person you love is lacking, you let them borrow your faith.
Sports romance might be the “bull-rush” right now, but this one has a little extra: it’s exciting but balanced, provoking but full of heart, and bonus: it contains a few valuable life lessons. If those things are your play, then this book is for you!
I highly recommend this sweet, swoony page-turner that will keep your heart pounding like we’re in the red zone. 5 pigskin-shaped stars!
Where’s this author been all my life? Not only am I left with an insatiable desire to watch TONS of football, but I’m also currently buying up all her backlist - because this book scored touchdown after touchdown!
Ms. Chacon mastered the plot, chemistry, romance, friendships, and beautiful family dynamics, but she also nailed the heart-pumping actions scenes! This book was one pic-six after another!
Warning: Do not start this story till you’ve got a few hours to burn - because you will NOT want to put it down. Dani and Austin were endearing on their own (great job, Ms. Chacon, with backstory), but they were even better together; and watching their story play out was highly entertaining. (Also, great play action on the side characters, I literally could not get enough - his family, her family, her BFFs, Ethan and her other coworkers, his teammates, Omar and Caleb, I could go on and on. The banter, the rivalries, the friendships, all top-notch!)
Notable Quotables:
- Research shows that spending time together and sharing personal goals increases the likelihood of developing romantic feelings by 30%. (I will not be part of this statistic. I will not be part of this statistic. I will NOT be part... oh crap.)
- Dani strikes me as the kind of person that needs to be coaxed into opening up. Slowly, gently. Like a rare flower blooming in the dead of night.
- I am breathless yet he’s giving me life. I am swept away by the current that is Austin Taylor, and yet he’s anchoring me in place. I’ve never experienced anything like this before—and I never want this with anyone else other than Austin Taylor.
- That’s what life is about too: it’s about getting up when you fall, it’s about pushing through when the odds are stacked against you. It’s about believing in yourself and believing in others. And when the person you love is lacking, you let them borrow your faith.
Sports romance might be the “bull-rush” right now, but this one has a little extra: it’s exciting but balanced, provoking but full of heart, and bonus: it contains a few valuable life lessons. If those things are your play, then this book is for you!
I highly recommend this sweet, swoony page-turner that will keep your heart pounding like we’re in the red zone. 5 pigskin-shaped stars!
November 30, 2024
It was really important for me to do justice to this book review on multiple levels. Primarily, I wanted to honor the characters and storyline that I fell deeply in love with since the book was written with such care and depth and loving attention to detail. On a secondary note, I got to be an ARC reader which was so special (I was able to voluntarily read it early- all opinions expressed are my own heartfelt words)! I never want to wait for the release date of any of her books again! I literally took several screenshots of the electronic pages so I could go back to them and laugh and swoon and reconnect with Dani & Austin all over again. I actually read several of the first pages to my husband as he drove us home on a long drive and he even laughed aloud. I don’t know how she does it, time and time again… how she weaves such masterful storytelling in what seems to me a short amount of pages. That said, I literally have no idea how long the book is because I devoured it in 1.5 sessions. How does she reveal such depth into so many characters that you feel like you know them or long to know them and encourage them and hug them and give them tissue or your shoulder to cry on and high-five them all at once? I devoured every sentence and I can’t wait to read it again! One of my favorite scenes was the jersey scene (his words to her), which I believe will be a favorite for many. There were poignant scenes as well, that make you really care for these beautifully written fictional characters. The guy always gets the girl and the girl always gets the guy in rom-coms; however, this is not a book of predictability. I was shocked that certain things happened the way they did, actually. I was fearful for how things might end up based on how each of the main characters might perceive the other’s action. I really enjoyed the statistical facts at each chapter heading, though it, too, made me nervous for what awaited in the pages before me. I was pleasantly and excitedly surprised! I really would like to read more of Dani & Austin, and of the supporting characters presented in this amazing sports romance! Be prepared to pay it forward- you’ll want to share it with others though there may be a slight hesitation as you’ll want to read it again yourself before you pass it along! Off the Bench is a TOUCHDOWN!!!!!
November 20, 2024
📚Book Review📚
🏈Off The Bench by Tiffany Noelle Chacon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6⭐️!!)
Our strengths complement each other—as if we’re pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly together.
“Don’t let the fear of loss keep you from living your fullest life right now.”
🏈My Thoughts🏈
First of all I am loving the little statistics about football at the beginning of each chapter. I grew up watching football with my dad and 3 older brothers so we ride or die the Washington Redskins and I really enjoyed all the little facts some I didn’t even know. I also love the incorporation of text messages and Twitter/X posts in this book I love when books include things like that!
This is the second book in the sports in the sunshine state romcom. It centers around Dani she is a female sports analyst for the Bucs’ and then we have Austin Taylor a college quarterback that didn’t get picked up during the NFL draft that is until Dani believes he has something special that could be great because after all the statistics don’t lie!
Y’all this book got me in all my feels I was happy, laughing, tearing up, swooning, and absolutely sobbing at one point! You know that moment in Ratatouille when the food critic eats the ratatouille and he has a flash back to his childhood growing up, I had the same reaction with this book! It made me feel like I was a teenager sitting in the living room with my dad and brothers watching football!
Tiffany’s writing is phenomenal I was hooked from the start of this book and was quite literally stuck to my kindle till the very last page! I was even tearing up reading her acknowledgments and thanks at the end of the book! If you want a realistic football sports romcom this is the one! I adored Dani and connected with her on so many levels! And Austin the way he was there for her during her migraine I swooned so much! Then when he left the note for their sports playbook! There are just so many great moments and quotes in this book it’s hard to mention them all just know this is a must read book and perfect read for the Thanksgiving holiday coming up!
🏈Thank you so much Tiffany Noelle Chacon for sending me a e-arc to read and review. All thoughts, fangirling, and opinions are my own.
🏈Off The Bench by Tiffany Noelle Chacon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6⭐️!!)
Our strengths complement each other—as if we’re pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly together.
“Don’t let the fear of loss keep you from living your fullest life right now.”
🏈My Thoughts🏈
First of all I am loving the little statistics about football at the beginning of each chapter. I grew up watching football with my dad and 3 older brothers so we ride or die the Washington Redskins and I really enjoyed all the little facts some I didn’t even know. I also love the incorporation of text messages and Twitter/X posts in this book I love when books include things like that!
This is the second book in the sports in the sunshine state romcom. It centers around Dani she is a female sports analyst for the Bucs’ and then we have Austin Taylor a college quarterback that didn’t get picked up during the NFL draft that is until Dani believes he has something special that could be great because after all the statistics don’t lie!
Y’all this book got me in all my feels I was happy, laughing, tearing up, swooning, and absolutely sobbing at one point! You know that moment in Ratatouille when the food critic eats the ratatouille and he has a flash back to his childhood growing up, I had the same reaction with this book! It made me feel like I was a teenager sitting in the living room with my dad and brothers watching football!
Tiffany’s writing is phenomenal I was hooked from the start of this book and was quite literally stuck to my kindle till the very last page! I was even tearing up reading her acknowledgments and thanks at the end of the book! If you want a realistic football sports romcom this is the one! I adored Dani and connected with her on so many levels! And Austin the way he was there for her during her migraine I swooned so much! Then when he left the note for their sports playbook! There are just so many great moments and quotes in this book it’s hard to mention them all just know this is a must read book and perfect read for the Thanksgiving holiday coming up!
🏈Thank you so much Tiffany Noelle Chacon for sending me a e-arc to read and review. All thoughts, fangirling, and opinions are my own.
December 17, 2024
🌟4.5🌟
"As of 2023, women hold less than 2% of data analyst positions in the NFL."
That is one of the facts TIffany Noelle Chacon included in the book. It puts it into perspective, the book also does briefly speak about the horrible treatment women are shown in male-dominant work fields.
I love a smart woman, especially one that is a woman of colour. Our main woman, Dani is so beautifully written - she is so good at what she does, she's incredibly smart and passionate about her career as a data analyst. But she's also mature and loving, I found myself falling in love with her character. She embraces her femininity despite the judgement she may receive.
Our main man, Austin had an amazing journey through his own career - he worked on becoming part of the team, it wasn't just handed to him. I loved how his relationship developed with the other team members throughout the story. I love his relationship with his family as well. His character development was compelling to witness, as he gradually overcame his insecurities and transformed into a true leader.
As for the actual book itself, I left more about American Football in the couple of hours it took to read this book, than I've learnt in my entire life. I'm from the UK, our football is different here (what Americans call soccer). I loved the way the author managed to add in all the facts and shows just how it works in the NFL, I learnt so much about this sport through this book. It was rather informative.
I loved all the side characters as well; especially Claire. I can't wait for her book, I think it's the one coming out next? So excited for it. I need to read Tiffany's book "Jump"! That'll be on my list for sometime soon.
Another part I loved was Ethan's and Dani's slow forming friendship, wasn't sure on Ethan at the start but he grew on me.
This was an incredible book, I really enjoyed reading it (I haven't stood up in like three hours, send help.) and I'm looking forward to what comes next from Tiffany.
Thank you to Netgalley, Write Horse publishing and of course our lovely author, Tiffany Noelle Chacon for this ARC. Everything written was my honest opinion.
"As of 2023, women hold less than 2% of data analyst positions in the NFL."
That is one of the facts TIffany Noelle Chacon included in the book. It puts it into perspective, the book also does briefly speak about the horrible treatment women are shown in male-dominant work fields.
I love a smart woman, especially one that is a woman of colour. Our main woman, Dani is so beautifully written - she is so good at what she does, she's incredibly smart and passionate about her career as a data analyst. But she's also mature and loving, I found myself falling in love with her character. She embraces her femininity despite the judgement she may receive.
Our main man, Austin had an amazing journey through his own career - he worked on becoming part of the team, it wasn't just handed to him. I loved how his relationship developed with the other team members throughout the story. I love his relationship with his family as well. His character development was compelling to witness, as he gradually overcame his insecurities and transformed into a true leader.
As for the actual book itself, I left more about American Football in the couple of hours it took to read this book, than I've learnt in my entire life. I'm from the UK, our football is different here (what Americans call soccer). I loved the way the author managed to add in all the facts and shows just how it works in the NFL, I learnt so much about this sport through this book. It was rather informative.
I loved all the side characters as well; especially Claire. I can't wait for her book, I think it's the one coming out next? So excited for it. I need to read Tiffany's book "Jump"! That'll be on my list for sometime soon.
Another part I loved was Ethan's and Dani's slow forming friendship, wasn't sure on Ethan at the start but he grew on me.
This was an incredible book, I really enjoyed reading it (I haven't stood up in like three hours, send help.) and I'm looking forward to what comes next from Tiffany.
Thank you to Netgalley, Write Horse publishing and of course our lovely author, Tiffany Noelle Chacon for this ARC. Everything written was my honest opinion.
December 15, 2024
✨ARC Review✨
Rating: 6/5⭐️
Recommended Age: 13+
Series: Sports in the Sunshine State #2
This is loaded with football! It felt like I was watching an actual game. Amazing job getting all those details down. But for me, some of it went over my head. I like football, but not like my sister who would love it. However, don’t let this deter you, I still loved the book, and it makes me want to pay attention during football games.
Austin is so gone for her!😍 And I love that in a MMC. I like that they never waver on their feelings. They know what they want and don’t let distractions deter them. And his character is so 🫠🫠! The humbleness of this man is utter perfection
Austin and Dani’s love story is so cute!💕 It is a slow burn🔥, but with a love at first sight trope. Ik ik, that trope is hated by some, but believe me, Tiffany does it SO well!!!
I gobbled this book up in three days. It’s not my fastest, but given the circumstances of my life, it was pretty fast.
I like that family was ever present in this book. I come from a huge family, and this just brought back all those memories! I like the faith references, but it isn’t overly done for those who don’t like that kinda thing.
I recommend this book to all football lovers like my sister. But this book can also be for those who don’t love the sport. So, basically, everyone!!😂 Everyone needs this book!!
This book made me feel: 😍❤️🤭😂🥰🙈🫠🫠🫠🥵❤️🦋💔😭🥰❤️
As you can see, I REALLY loved this book.
Things you’ll find:
🏈 football quarterback
🏈 reverse grumpy/sunshine
🏈 witty banter
🏈 slow burn
🏈 love at first sight
🏈 workplace romcom
🏈 football games
🏈 underdog
🏈 family
🏈 yoga
🏈 6 A.M.
POV: Dual POV, first person, present tense
Door: Closed door 🚪
Spice level according to Closed Door Romance: Level 2
Swearing chart according to Closed Door Romance: Zero
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.**
Rating: 6/5⭐️
Recommended Age: 13+
Series: Sports in the Sunshine State #2
This is loaded with football! It felt like I was watching an actual game. Amazing job getting all those details down. But for me, some of it went over my head. I like football, but not like my sister who would love it. However, don’t let this deter you, I still loved the book, and it makes me want to pay attention during football games.
Austin is so gone for her!😍 And I love that in a MMC. I like that they never waver on their feelings. They know what they want and don’t let distractions deter them. And his character is so 🫠🫠! The humbleness of this man is utter perfection
Austin and Dani’s love story is so cute!💕 It is a slow burn🔥, but with a love at first sight trope. Ik ik, that trope is hated by some, but believe me, Tiffany does it SO well!!!
I gobbled this book up in three days. It’s not my fastest, but given the circumstances of my life, it was pretty fast.
I like that family was ever present in this book. I come from a huge family, and this just brought back all those memories! I like the faith references, but it isn’t overly done for those who don’t like that kinda thing.
I recommend this book to all football lovers like my sister. But this book can also be for those who don’t love the sport. So, basically, everyone!!😂 Everyone needs this book!!
This book made me feel: 😍❤️🤭😂🥰🙈🫠🫠🫠🥵❤️🦋💔😭🥰❤️
As you can see, I REALLY loved this book.
Things you’ll find:
🏈 football quarterback
🏈 reverse grumpy/sunshine
🏈 witty banter
🏈 slow burn
🏈 love at first sight
🏈 workplace romcom
🏈 football games
🏈 underdog
🏈 family
🏈 yoga
🏈 6 A.M.
POV: Dual POV, first person, present tense
Door: Closed door 🚪
Spice level according to Closed Door Romance: Level 2
Swearing chart according to Closed Door Romance: Zero
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.**
March 7, 2025
Spice: some minor kissing
I’m still newer to reading books that aren’t fantasy but this was an awesome read!
I didn’t always understand all of the football lingo (though the author did a great job breaking it down), but it didn’t effect my ability to enjoy the story
I really liked the MMC and his golden retriever energy. A man who knows what really matters and has his priorities straight, even when he’s thrown into the spotlight and given the world and everything in it if he wants.
I liked being able to see the relationship progress from both POVs. I really appreciated how much Austin (our MMC) respected Dani. He was always willing to defer to her level of comfort, even when he wanted to kiss her and be with her. He respected her choice to have space but still did all he could to show he cared for her.
I appreciated how realistic it was that Dani was scolded and judged and put her career on the line kissing Austin, but no one batted an eye or yelled at him. They basically said “good for you, man” to him. Unfortunately, this is very accurate in real life and I thought Dani’s POV of wanting to be seen for her career brain and not judged by who she was dating was valid.
I loved that Austin refused to do a shirtless interview but then they went back to him and paid him double and let him keep his jersey on. What a cool example of living your standards!
If you finish the book, there is an author email list you can join to receive some way in the future epilogue of these two and I highly recommend.
While not nearly long enough to fill my need to see their future life, it was so cute to see snippets of them with their future family, still all about football and realizing that family was worth everything
All in all a great and fun read! I look forward to trying more of the author’s books!
I’m still newer to reading books that aren’t fantasy but this was an awesome read!
I didn’t always understand all of the football lingo (though the author did a great job breaking it down), but it didn’t effect my ability to enjoy the story
I really liked the MMC and his golden retriever energy. A man who knows what really matters and has his priorities straight, even when he’s thrown into the spotlight and given the world and everything in it if he wants.
I liked being able to see the relationship progress from both POVs. I really appreciated how much Austin (our MMC) respected Dani. He was always willing to defer to her level of comfort, even when he wanted to kiss her and be with her. He respected her choice to have space but still did all he could to show he cared for her.
I appreciated how realistic it was that Dani was scolded and judged and put her career on the line kissing Austin, but no one batted an eye or yelled at him. They basically said “good for you, man” to him. Unfortunately, this is very accurate in real life and I thought Dani’s POV of wanting to be seen for her career brain and not judged by who she was dating was valid.
I loved that Austin refused to do a shirtless interview but then they went back to him and paid him double and let him keep his jersey on. What a cool example of living your standards!
If you finish the book, there is an author email list you can join to receive some way in the future epilogue of these two and I highly recommend.
While not nearly long enough to fill my need to see their future life, it was so cute to see snippets of them with their future family, still all about football and realizing that family was worth everything
All in all a great and fun read! I look forward to trying more of the author’s books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2024
Quarterback, Austin is left undrafted because no one sees his potential.... except Dani. She's a sport analyst who has been following his career and she sees what he's capable of. And in an effort to prove herself and give Austin his chance she signs him to their team. When Austin ends up going from their third string quarterback to the starting quarterback, things get interesting. She believes in him, even more than he believes in himself! As if her reputation wasn't already on the line, she bets her coworker that he will win 6 games , or she loses her car! With all of that on the line, she takes Austin under her wing, working with him to give him every chance at success. But what starts out as a bet, and just two people working together ... soon turns to stolen glances and developing feelings. But what happens if Austin can't win all the games? What happens when Dani's finished helping him adjust to his new role? And what happens if their developing feelings no longer can be hidden?!
I loved this! At first, I was worried I would be bogged down with all the sports info. But it was the perfect balance, and gosh, the chemistry between Austin and Dani was incredible too! This was the first book I've read by Tiffany, but it won't be my last!
***I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and reflect my personal thoughts and experiences with the book.
I loved this! At first, I was worried I would be bogged down with all the sports info. But it was the perfect balance, and gosh, the chemistry between Austin and Dani was incredible too! This was the first book I've read by Tiffany, but it won't be my last!
***I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and reflect my personal thoughts and experiences with the book.
November 19, 2024
If you’re looking for a fun mix of laughs, sports, and a sweet love story, Off the Bench is a great choice for your next read! This book has everything you need for a light, entertaining read with just the right amount of drama and humor.
One of the best parts of Off the Bench is the relationship between the main characters. Their chemistry is spot-on, and their playful back-and-forth keeps you hooked and smiling as you read. You’ll be rooting for them from the start, and the way their relationship unfolds is super enjoyable.
I also loved that this was a clean romance. If you like love stories that are sweet without getting steamy, this book hits the mark. It’s full of charm and real connection, proving that a story can be captivating without being too intense.
And even if you’re not a huge football fan, Off the Bench makes the sport easy to follow and actually fun. The author, Tiffany, explains just enough to keep you in the loop, so you won’t feel lost during the game scenes. I even picked up some new things about football that made watching real games more enjoyable! I was able to impress my husband with my new football vocab!
All in all, Off the Bench is a cute, uplifting story that mixes sports and romance perfectly. Whether you love romantic comedies, like sports-themed stories, or just want a lighthearted book, this one will leave you happy. I am looking forward to reading more books by Tiffany and the next book in this series!
One of the best parts of Off the Bench is the relationship between the main characters. Their chemistry is spot-on, and their playful back-and-forth keeps you hooked and smiling as you read. You’ll be rooting for them from the start, and the way their relationship unfolds is super enjoyable.
I also loved that this was a clean romance. If you like love stories that are sweet without getting steamy, this book hits the mark. It’s full of charm and real connection, proving that a story can be captivating without being too intense.
And even if you’re not a huge football fan, Off the Bench makes the sport easy to follow and actually fun. The author, Tiffany, explains just enough to keep you in the loop, so you won’t feel lost during the game scenes. I even picked up some new things about football that made watching real games more enjoyable! I was able to impress my husband with my new football vocab!
All in all, Off the Bench is a cute, uplifting story that mixes sports and romance perfectly. Whether you love romantic comedies, like sports-themed stories, or just want a lighthearted book, this one will leave you happy. I am looking forward to reading more books by Tiffany and the next book in this series!
December 3, 2024
This was such a sweet romance with an amazing cast of characters. The chapters were nice and short, the writing a breeze to follow through, making it a rather quick read.
Tiffany is a master of balancing football action with the romance in a way that neither of the two feels neglected.
Austin is such a sunshine of a human, a golden retriever through and through. He was so pure in his pursuit of Dani, never stepping out of line, giving her the space she needed, whenever she needed. I liked that about his character—the fact that he was a decent guy and a gentleman. His character arc of finally learning to believe in his abilities as a QB was very well done and definitely one of my favorite parts of the book.
Talking about our female lead, Dani, she was a solid character, just not my personal favorite. She's super intelligent but lacks the courage to stand up for herself, always choosing to run instead of confronting the problems life throws her way. This didn't necessarily change by the end of the story, and that was a bit disappointing, really.
The romance was sweet and slow-paced, a reverse grumpy × sunshine which I'm always in the mood for. I'll be looking out for more works from Tiffany in the future.
**A huge thank you to Write Horse Publishing, the author, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Tiffany is a master of balancing football action with the romance in a way that neither of the two feels neglected.
Austin is such a sunshine of a human, a golden retriever through and through. He was so pure in his pursuit of Dani, never stepping out of line, giving her the space she needed, whenever she needed. I liked that about his character—the fact that he was a decent guy and a gentleman. His character arc of finally learning to believe in his abilities as a QB was very well done and definitely one of my favorite parts of the book.
Talking about our female lead, Dani, she was a solid character, just not my personal favorite. She's super intelligent but lacks the courage to stand up for herself, always choosing to run instead of confronting the problems life throws her way. This didn't necessarily change by the end of the story, and that was a bit disappointing, really.
The romance was sweet and slow-paced, a reverse grumpy × sunshine which I'm always in the mood for. I'll be looking out for more works from Tiffany in the future.
**A huge thank you to Write Horse Publishing, the author, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
February 15, 2025
What a fun read!
As someone who knows very little about football, this book was the perfect balance of sports facts with enough background information to let me know what was going on. I loved getting both Dani and Austin's perspectives of the game from an analytical and player point of view.
I loved Dani and Austin's chemistry throughout the book, and their relationship progression was so sweet!
Dani's growth as a character was so heartwarming to read, especially as she learned to work through her relationship with her family. I also loved the discussion of femininity and how Dani embraced this in a male dominated sport.
Austin was a great male lead but fell a little flat for me. His growth in self-confidence was great, but this was the only main challenge he had to go through. Though this issue of confidence spread its reach into many aspects of his life, I just felt like I was missing a bit more vulnerability from his character.
The only other minor thing that bothered me about this read was that the pacing in the first half felt a little rushed, but I thought that the pacing remedied itself in the last half.
I binged this book in only a few sittings, so I think it is a great romance to read if you want a captivating sports themed book! I would highly recommend this to sports fans and romance fans alike!
As someone who knows very little about football, this book was the perfect balance of sports facts with enough background information to let me know what was going on. I loved getting both Dani and Austin's perspectives of the game from an analytical and player point of view.
I loved Dani and Austin's chemistry throughout the book, and their relationship progression was so sweet!
Dani's growth as a character was so heartwarming to read, especially as she learned to work through her relationship with her family. I also loved the discussion of femininity and how Dani embraced this in a male dominated sport.
Austin was a great male lead but fell a little flat for me. His growth in self-confidence was great, but this was the only main challenge he had to go through. Though this issue of confidence spread its reach into many aspects of his life, I just felt like I was missing a bit more vulnerability from his character.
The only other minor thing that bothered me about this read was that the pacing in the first half felt a little rushed, but I thought that the pacing remedied itself in the last half.
I binged this book in only a few sittings, so I think it is a great romance to read if you want a captivating sports themed book! I would highly recommend this to sports fans and romance fans alike!
November 10, 2024
It’s safe to say this is going in my top 5 reads of this year. I’ve always loved sport’s romances but I wasn’t expecting what I got out this book and that was the feeling of recognition. Hands down there is not enough women of color depicted in clean/Christian/closed door romances, but in this book I truly felt seen and represented throughout Dani’s story. From the description of her braids and her step mother doing her hair the best she could, to her helping her aunt re-tie her sister locs, to Dani and her friends listening to Forest Frank! It was not only the cutest romances ever but the details that made this story 5 stars for me. I loved seeing people of color with wealth and careers. I just loved this book. Ok I’m done yapping about representation lol this story follows Daniella, a football analyst for the buccaneers who has to convince her father (the teams gm) and her uncle (the teams coach), and everyone else just how amazing of a football player our MMC Austin can be. She even has to convince Austin, who was a UFDA and personally scouted by the bucs a day after the draft. Austin was so sweet, respectful, and head over heels in love with Dani from day 1 and I was here for every second off it!
**Thank you to the author for my review copy!🥰
December 2, 2024
You had me at closed door football romance.
Austin Taylor, once an undrafted free agent and a third-string quarterback, was never supposed to be the starting QB for the Tampa Bay Bucs.
Except now, he is.
Dani Marshall, the Bucs’ data analyst whiz, is all in—betting her career, and even her car, on Austin's success. The real challenge? Keeping her heart out of the game.
As a huge football fan this is one of my fav romcoms based on the sport and I’ll tell you why. Austin plays for a real team, plays against real teams and there’s tons of real players mentioned: which is just soooo cool. It makes the story more realistic and gives you the sense that this could really be happening in a stadium somewhere while I’m watching the game from my couch. I loved everything about this book from the short chapters, quick wit/banter and of course all of the behind the scene football fun.
I also really enjoyed how the author gave a nod to her other series based on the sport of equestrian!
While I give this five stars and highly recommend, I do wonder if a non football fan would love this as much as it heavily relies on football terminology and plays (even though they are all explained well)
Austin Taylor, once an undrafted free agent and a third-string quarterback, was never supposed to be the starting QB for the Tampa Bay Bucs.
Except now, he is.
Dani Marshall, the Bucs’ data analyst whiz, is all in—betting her career, and even her car, on Austin's success. The real challenge? Keeping her heart out of the game.
As a huge football fan this is one of my fav romcoms based on the sport and I’ll tell you why. Austin plays for a real team, plays against real teams and there’s tons of real players mentioned: which is just soooo cool. It makes the story more realistic and gives you the sense that this could really be happening in a stadium somewhere while I’m watching the game from my couch. I loved everything about this book from the short chapters, quick wit/banter and of course all of the behind the scene football fun.
I also really enjoyed how the author gave a nod to her other series based on the sport of equestrian!
While I give this five stars and highly recommend, I do wonder if a non football fan would love this as much as it heavily relies on football terminology and plays (even though they are all explained well)
March 10, 2025
Off the Bench by Tiffany Noelle Chacon is the second book in her series, Sports in the Sunshine State RomComs. Ms. Chacon uses the tropes of Love at First Sight (Insta-Love), friends to lovers, Opposites Attract (reverse grumpy-sweet) and sports romance. This story is the first one I have read by this author, and I liked the initial description and the cover is cute. The story was very easy to read, and the narrative flowed smoothly. Dani Marshall is a numbers-driven analyst for the Tampa Bay Bucs; she struggles for validity as a rarity in football, a female predictor. When she urges her team to sign Austin Taylor as back-up third-string quarterback, everyone scoffs. Austin is extremely laid back, but even he loses his composure at the aspect of being drafted into the NFL. He had all but given up hope for a career in the NFL so when Dani approached him, she made two dreams come true: a football career and a chance to love. In her personal life, Dani had a lot to contend with, the optics of her job and her strained family relationships. As they worked on his game and plays, I loved the friendship that kindhearted Austin developed with by the books Dani, they were so cute together. I really enjoyed this book, and I learned a great deal about football.
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December 15, 2024
Danielle Marshall is a data analyst for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a brainy and beautiful young woman who's trying to make it in a man's world. So when she advocates for the acquisition of a third-string quarterback who nobody else wants, her rep and future pretty much ride on that recommendation. Management agrees to hire Austin Taylor, who is expected to ride the bench all season. When the starting and backup QBs fall like dominoes, Austin steps up. He's a good leader and a kind person, and we love the success he creates.
As his star rises, so does their attraction, but Dani can't afford the hit to her career it would be if she were seen on the arm of this man. But they're perfect for each other! This is a nicely paced, well-written sports romance, something I don't usually read, but I was hooked all the way through. I know a little about football but don't watch games, but in this story, the descriptions were easy to understand and feel the excitement. I loved the two mains, and even though you know they'll end up together, the big question is always how they'll do that. A good read. I'll look for more from this capable author.
As his star rises, so does their attraction, but Dani can't afford the hit to her career it would be if she were seen on the arm of this man. But they're perfect for each other! This is a nicely paced, well-written sports romance, something I don't usually read, but I was hooked all the way through. I know a little about football but don't watch games, but in this story, the descriptions were easy to understand and feel the excitement. I loved the two mains, and even though you know they'll end up together, the big question is always how they'll do that. A good read. I'll look for more from this capable author.
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