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Play You For It: A Novel
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • In this sizzling sapphic romance, sparks fly between a sports journalist and her latest source—the first woman to be named head coach of a Division 1 men’s basketball team—but are they willing to risk their careers for a shot at love?
When Jordan D’Amato becomes the first woman named head coach of a top-level men’s college basketball team, journalist Caroline Beck is determined to get the story. After years of scraping her way into the world of sports reporting, Beck knows that snagging the first one-on-one interview with the elusive head coach could be her big break. But Jordan is wary of the media and the attention her historic new appointment attracts, especially as her boss makes it clear that it’s a temporary assignment—and if she doesn’t lead the team to victory, it won’t become permanent.
Beck’s persistence, however, charms Jordan, and she agrees to sit down for an interview. The two women have undeniable chemistry—but journalists definitely can’t fall for sources, and Jordan certainly can’t fully trust the ambitious reporter who has every reason to use her team secrets for the next big scoop. Though they both know it will ruin their reputations and likely also cost them their jobs if anyone finds out they are romantically involved, they can’t seem to stay away from each other.
With the national tournament in sight and both of their careers on the line, they must decide whether to take the shot on their budding love story—or walk away from the risky game they’ve been playing for good.
When Jordan D’Amato becomes the first woman named head coach of a top-level men’s college basketball team, journalist Caroline Beck is determined to get the story. After years of scraping her way into the world of sports reporting, Beck knows that snagging the first one-on-one interview with the elusive head coach could be her big break. But Jordan is wary of the media and the attention her historic new appointment attracts, especially as her boss makes it clear that it’s a temporary assignment—and if she doesn’t lead the team to victory, it won’t become permanent.
Beck’s persistence, however, charms Jordan, and she agrees to sit down for an interview. The two women have undeniable chemistry—but journalists definitely can’t fall for sources, and Jordan certainly can’t fully trust the ambitious reporter who has every reason to use her team secrets for the next big scoop. Though they both know it will ruin their reputations and likely also cost them their jobs if anyone finds out they are romantically involved, they can’t seem to stay away from each other.
With the national tournament in sight and both of their careers on the line, they must decide whether to take the shot on their budding love story—or walk away from the risky game they’ve been playing for good.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
13 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
July 17, 2025
I read some other reviews of this book that described it as light and fluffy but I couldn't disagree more. "Play You For It" is a sweet, sapphic sports romance that also covers some deeper themes, like homophobia, sexism, unaccepting families, and toxic workplaces for women trying to succeed in professions dominated by men.
I devoured this one in one or two sittings. I don't see enough forbidden love romances between reporters and their sources and I'd love to see more of them. When her coach moves on to a new job, assistant head coach Jordan D'Amato is promoted to head coach at David Douglas, and becomes the first women's head coach of a Division 1 college basketball team. But she faces hostility at every turn, from management determined to fire her for every mistake to a team she's trying too hard to prove herself to.
But then she's pursued by a scrappy reporter for a regional news channel, determined to get a one-on-one. But sparks fly and Jordan, who's openly gay, and Caroline Beck, who's realizing she's bi, soon can't deny their attraction, despite their forbidden relationship needing to stay in the shadows.
I loved the idea of a coach and a reporter as love interests, and I liked how this didn't focus on the women's game. A lot of sports romances aren't really about sports and that is just a setting for the romance, but this book put sports front and center. So if you don't like sports you will likely find this tedious. As someone who loves basketball though, I appreciated the accurate references to the game. The love of the game really shone through these pages as the catalyst for a sizzling romance.
It was a little instalust, but the forbidden nature of their relationship still kept the tension high as they can only see each other through heated looks and secret dates.
I also appreciated how I could tell the author was a broadcast journalist, because her knowledge of the profession really shone through and added color to the story. I hope she never worked at a TV station like Beck's but as a former print journalist the toxicity is sadly common to the industry.
Beck deals with sexism and harassment on the daily, including an annoying man who keeps asking her out. I was rooting for her to get her big break.
I also loved the idea of them as a sports power couple and their safe space for each other. I found it inspiring how Jordan got the team on her side and was rooting for them to go all the way.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I devoured this one in one or two sittings. I don't see enough forbidden love romances between reporters and their sources and I'd love to see more of them. When her coach moves on to a new job, assistant head coach Jordan D'Amato is promoted to head coach at David Douglas, and becomes the first women's head coach of a Division 1 college basketball team. But she faces hostility at every turn, from management determined to fire her for every mistake to a team she's trying too hard to prove herself to.
But then she's pursued by a scrappy reporter for a regional news channel, determined to get a one-on-one. But sparks fly and Jordan, who's openly gay, and Caroline Beck, who's realizing she's bi, soon can't deny their attraction, despite their forbidden relationship needing to stay in the shadows.
I loved the idea of a coach and a reporter as love interests, and I liked how this didn't focus on the women's game. A lot of sports romances aren't really about sports and that is just a setting for the romance, but this book put sports front and center. So if you don't like sports you will likely find this tedious. As someone who loves basketball though, I appreciated the accurate references to the game. The love of the game really shone through these pages as the catalyst for a sizzling romance.
It was a little instalust, but the forbidden nature of their relationship still kept the tension high as they can only see each other through heated looks and secret dates.
I also appreciated how I could tell the author was a broadcast journalist, because her knowledge of the profession really shone through and added color to the story. I hope she never worked at a TV station like Beck's but as a former print journalist the toxicity is sadly common to the industry.
Beck deals with sexism and harassment on the daily, including an annoying man who keeps asking her out. I was rooting for her to get her big break.
I also loved the idea of them as a sports power couple and their safe space for each other. I found it inspiring how Jordan got the team on her side and was rooting for them to go all the way.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2025
this was the best sapphic sports romance i’ve ever read and up there in sports romances fs. really unique concept (coach + sports reporter) and executed in perfection. both characters were vividly portrayed and incredibly themselves. they both deal with major sexism which in another book would have made their plotlines feel too similar but in this it just showed different sides of things and who the characters are. brilliant characters all around, i especially loved the team. lots of different conflicts stemming from genuine things with good pacing and good resolution. i was stressed but also knew things would turn out mostly well. i really liked the news element of it and you can tell the author knows how to write that stuff, along with writing basketball. i was also scared there wouldn’t be a lot of basketball with the mc being a coach not a player but it was way more than some hockey player romances i’ve read. brilliant, enjoyable, lovely, and unique!
also shout out to UT, who lost in the sweet sixteen
also shout out to UT, who lost in the sweet sixteen
October 21, 2025
I’m a sucker for forbidden romances, more so when it feels inevitable, like they can’t fathom being apart. Jordan and Beck were so good together, their chemistry from the beginning was incredible. I loved that the reader also gets to know the main characters individually, we learn a bit about Jordan’s upbringing, we learn about Beck’s family and their expectations, the toxic workplace that they both face and just how much more difficult it can be to be a woman in sports, particularly in positions with a lot of publicity. There were some side characters that stole my heart (shoutout to Todd and Frost) and some truly insufferable side characters (I’m looking at you, Easton and Mark).
I loved this book so much! I could not put it down. I’m not the biggest basketball fan, I can watch a game but it’s not my favorite sport. The way the games in this book were written absolutely felt like it was a sports commentator. I feel like I lived the games in this book, truly so well narrated.
Some triggers to look out for: homophobia, sexism, sexual harassment, assault jokes and workplace toxicity. If none of those topics trigger you, give this book a try. Thank you to Samantha Saldivar, Ballantine | Dell and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC.
Rated 4.5⭐️ rounded up to 5
I loved this book so much! I could not put it down. I’m not the biggest basketball fan, I can watch a game but it’s not my favorite sport. The way the games in this book were written absolutely felt like it was a sports commentator. I feel like I lived the games in this book, truly so well narrated.
Some triggers to look out for: homophobia, sexism, sexual harassment, assault jokes and workplace toxicity. If none of those topics trigger you, give this book a try. Thank you to Samantha Saldivar, Ballantine | Dell and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC.
Rated 4.5⭐️ rounded up to 5
August 15, 2025
This felt like a unique take on a sapphic sports romance. I enjoyed how it was between a coach and a reporter, it felt like a nice departure from athlete focused stories. Jordan and Beck both had interesting personal journeys throughout the course of the book. Jordan is dealing with all of the pressure of becoming the first woman to coach a D1 men’s basketball team while Beck is trying to get her big break to become more important to her network. Of course it would be extremely complicated for a reporter and her source to get involved with one another…
Samantha Saldivar spends a lot of time fleshing out Jordan and Beck as individuals and giving you their backstories. It definitely makes them feel very real and you understand why they’re so dedicated to their careers. There is some good tension when they realize they have feelings for one another and when they’re deciding if they can try to make a secret relationship work.
However, I wasn’t fully convinced of their relationship or when they were telling each other “I love you” for the first time. I think that all of the focus on their individual stories took away from the development of the romance. Sometimes it just felt rushed or like it wasn’t being given the same amount of page time as descriptions of games or other struggles in their professional lives.
I still enjoyed my time reading the book. But I feel like it works more as a contemporary fiction story rather than a ROMANCE. If it sounds interesting to you I’d recommend giving it a shot. It does provide a different version of a sports romance story than what is typically available.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Samantha Saldivar spends a lot of time fleshing out Jordan and Beck as individuals and giving you their backstories. It definitely makes them feel very real and you understand why they’re so dedicated to their careers. There is some good tension when they realize they have feelings for one another and when they’re deciding if they can try to make a secret relationship work.
However, I wasn’t fully convinced of their relationship or when they were telling each other “I love you” for the first time. I think that all of the focus on their individual stories took away from the development of the romance. Sometimes it just felt rushed or like it wasn’t being given the same amount of page time as descriptions of games or other struggles in their professional lives.
I still enjoyed my time reading the book. But I feel like it works more as a contemporary fiction story rather than a ROMANCE. If it sounds interesting to you I’d recommend giving it a shot. It does provide a different version of a sports romance story than what is typically available.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 15, 2025
What a great book. Especially if you're a basketball fan. I had never heard of the author before. I still haven't checked to see if this was a debut or not but will as soon as I'm done with this review.
There really was so much to enjoy about this novel. We've got the great romance between a college men's basketball coach and a sports reporter. We've got the battle the coach and team endure over the sexist sports director/alumni/press. We've got various issues that the players are dealing with. And we've got a touch of family drama. It could feel overwhelming as a reader, but it all felt completely natural and believable.
I think the only stumbling block I had was some of the word choices used. Not that they were wrong, necessarily, but that some of them fucked up the flow for me. But at the same time, it was a delight to read something with a more grown-up vocabulary. Sometimes I want to read multisyllabic words and even have to look one or two up. Actually, I almost always want a more mature vocabulary in my romance novels, but it doesn't really seem like something that's done in the genre often. So, when I find a book that challenges my brain a little with words, I tend to love it even more.
I'm so glad Play You For It came up as a suggestion on NetGalley. Otherwise, I'm pretty sure I would have missed it. It'll definitely go on my re-read list.
Big thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the hook up!
There really was so much to enjoy about this novel. We've got the great romance between a college men's basketball coach and a sports reporter. We've got the battle the coach and team endure over the sexist sports director/alumni/press. We've got various issues that the players are dealing with. And we've got a touch of family drama. It could feel overwhelming as a reader, but it all felt completely natural and believable.
I think the only stumbling block I had was some of the word choices used. Not that they were wrong, necessarily, but that some of them fucked up the flow for me. But at the same time, it was a delight to read something with a more grown-up vocabulary. Sometimes I want to read multisyllabic words and even have to look one or two up. Actually, I almost always want a more mature vocabulary in my romance novels, but it doesn't really seem like something that's done in the genre often. So, when I find a book that challenges my brain a little with words, I tend to love it even more.
I'm so glad Play You For It came up as a suggestion on NetGalley. Otherwise, I'm pretty sure I would have missed it. It'll definitely go on my re-read list.
Big thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the hook up!
August 28, 2025
Thank you to Ballantine for this eARC! This was a delightful romance between two professional adults who act like actual adults about each-other! It was so refreshing and the basketball aspect of it added a fun momentum to the story that kept me hooked. I flew through this read in the very best way!
October 16, 2025
Play You For It is a delightful sapphic sports romance. We follow Jordan, the first woman to be named head coach of a D1 men’s basketball team. Determined to get the inside scoop, journalist Caroline Beck hounds Jordan for an exclusive interview. However with each encounter they discover an undeniable pull towards one another. But with both their careers and integrity on the line, this sizzling chemistry could be their downfall.
I love a good sports romance, especially when the sport is actually integrated into the plot instead of just being a backdrop. As much as I loved the romance, I also loved seeing the Bulldog’s season and Jordan’s relationship with her team.
I adored Beck and Jordan’s chemistry, I think they worked really well together. I really appreciated their drive and determination while in male dominated fields. The way they navigated doubt, pressure, and prejudice was admirable. Seeing how they struggled to juggle those passions with their growing romance added a lot of depth to their character arcs.
I do think their careers kind of got in the way of the romance. I felt like we speed ran through very key moments, leaving me wanting more. I wish we spent more time on their growing feelings and their interactions on the daily. They fell for each other very quickly, so i was hoping for a little more tension to keep me invested.
I love a good sports romance, especially when the sport is actually integrated into the plot instead of just being a backdrop. As much as I loved the romance, I also loved seeing the Bulldog’s season and Jordan’s relationship with her team.
I adored Beck and Jordan’s chemistry, I think they worked really well together. I really appreciated their drive and determination while in male dominated fields. The way they navigated doubt, pressure, and prejudice was admirable. Seeing how they struggled to juggle those passions with their growing romance added a lot of depth to their character arcs.
I do think their careers kind of got in the way of the romance. I felt like we speed ran through very key moments, leaving me wanting more. I wish we spent more time on their growing feelings and their interactions on the daily. They fell for each other very quickly, so i was hoping for a little more tension to keep me invested.
October 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an early copy of this gorgeous book.
Guys, this book is the sports romance you've been missing in your life. It's full of fun, spunky moments, found family, teamwork, LGBT representation, women in sports, female struggles in the work place, and even, somehow, finds time to include a little romance. Sure, Jordan and Beck are the main characters, but that doesn't mean they are the only stories that matter in this novel. Samantha Saldivar is a beautiful author who never forgets the little guy, and seems to always find the right moment to flesh out each and every character just exactly right. If you need a warm, cozy feel good story that still rings true to life, this novel is for you.
Guys, this book is the sports romance you've been missing in your life. It's full of fun, spunky moments, found family, teamwork, LGBT representation, women in sports, female struggles in the work place, and even, somehow, finds time to include a little romance. Sure, Jordan and Beck are the main characters, but that doesn't mean they are the only stories that matter in this novel. Samantha Saldivar is a beautiful author who never forgets the little guy, and seems to always find the right moment to flesh out each and every character just exactly right. If you need a warm, cozy feel good story that still rings true to life, this novel is for you.
October 22, 2025
This was a standout Sapphic sports romance debut that has a reporter falling for the first female head coach of a college basketball team. There's a scintillating forbidden aspect to this slow burn that has the two women first becoming friends and later trying to maintain a secret relationship. I loved the insider look into college basketball and the strong female leads. This was excellent on audio and perfect for fans of books like Love and sportsball or How you get the girl. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
September 24, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for this ARC e-copy of Play You For It by Samantha Saldivar.
Jordan D’Amato is the first female head coach of a D1 men’s college basketball team. Caroline Beck is a scrappy sports journalist looking to break the next big story. When their paths consistently cross, sparks fly—but can their relationship, a textbook conflict-of-interest, survive intact along with their precarious careers?
This is probably one of the best—if not the best—LGBTQ+ romance books I’ve ever read…. or maybe just the best romance book I’ve read in general, because it wasn’t just about the romance. There was an overarching plot that actually made sense, tons of fully realized characters, and for once, the author made me CARE about all of it. I absolutely loved the basketball team, Caroline’s allies in the journalism world, and the fact that at the end of the book, I was sad to leave the world the author had created. It was pure excellence.
I highly recommend this book to readers of sapphic fiction, sports romance, and those interested in plenty of basketball action. I already can’t wait to read Samantha Saldivar’s next book.
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ - EXCELLENT
CW: homophobia, d-slur, bone rebreaking (maybe that’s just me), threats of sexual assault
Jordan D’Amato is the first female head coach of a D1 men’s college basketball team. Caroline Beck is a scrappy sports journalist looking to break the next big story. When their paths consistently cross, sparks fly—but can their relationship, a textbook conflict-of-interest, survive intact along with their precarious careers?
This is probably one of the best—if not the best—LGBTQ+ romance books I’ve ever read…. or maybe just the best romance book I’ve read in general, because it wasn’t just about the romance. There was an overarching plot that actually made sense, tons of fully realized characters, and for once, the author made me CARE about all of it. I absolutely loved the basketball team, Caroline’s allies in the journalism world, and the fact that at the end of the book, I was sad to leave the world the author had created. It was pure excellence.
I highly recommend this book to readers of sapphic fiction, sports romance, and those interested in plenty of basketball action. I already can’t wait to read Samantha Saldivar’s next book.
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ - EXCELLENT
CW: homophobia, d-slur, bone rebreaking (maybe that’s just me), threats of sexual assault
November 15, 2025
The romance in this was cute, but what really kept me interested was actually the sports?? And I'm not a basketball girly in the slightest, but the author did such a good job of immersing me in the world of this college basketball coach that I was rooting harder for her and her team than I was for the relationship. Not that the romance wasn't great, too-- there was good pacing and relationship development, realistic obstacles that both characters handled in realistically mature ways, and decent chemistry. And we had two romance leads who actually acted like grown adults!! I love to see it. Overall this was a really solid story and I'm excited to see any future sapphic sports romances this author writes. My only complaint is that I wanted it to be spicier, but that's just me being a perv I guess
October 19, 2025
WOMEN! IN! SPORTS!
December 7, 2025
I want to say a huge thank you to Samantha Saldivar and Ballantine publishing for letting me read an early e-arc copy of Play You For It on NetGalley. (I’m now realizing that this book is out but it wasn’t when I got the arc. Soooo, yeah keep that in mind.) I rated this book 3.75 ✨. Our characters Jordan and Beck have a lot of challenges to get through to be together. I do kind of wish that there was more communication in this book because it would’ve felt more engaging because our characters are adults and should know how to communicate if there’s a problem.
Another thing that I wasn’t a fan of in this book was the back and forth of Jordan and Beck fighting and then immediately forgiving each other. I know this is fiction but we all know that arguments aren’t really like that in real life. I also think that Beck should’ve voiced her problems with Easton and Wyatt from the start because it was annoying how poorly she was being treated. And again, if she communicated with both of them and her boss we would have a less bittersweet ending.
But now into the things that I really adored in this book. Off the bat when I first met Jordan and Brooks I knew that he would be a son to her and she would be a mother figure. I also loved their dynamic of them supporting each other no matter what it was. They also always had each other’s backs and I felt like that really tied in to the found family with the Bulldogs basketball team and how well they played together.
I feel like everyone on the team were close to each other like family and I really loved that and everyone was supportive of Brooks being gay and of Jordan’s relationship with Beck. Even though Jordan had some doubts with Beck she always valued her team and how they were doing because she realized being the stickler coach wasn’t going to help the go all the way to the championship.
I feel like the relationship with our main characters went way too fast for me to catch up. Like there was no pining or any of the stuff that I was looking for. It was so insta lovely that I kinda wasn’t looking forward to their romance. I was mainly looking forward to the boys on the team and all of the side characters because they were more interesting. I also don’t think that Beck and Jordan should have said ‘I love you’ until the end of the book and not in between because this book takes course over a month and a half maybe more. I think they were rushing their relationship. But enough of my complaining. Again I want to say a big thanks to Samantha Saldivar and Ballantine books for giving me the e-arc of Play You For It.
Another thing that I wasn’t a fan of in this book was the back and forth of Jordan and Beck fighting and then immediately forgiving each other. I know this is fiction but we all know that arguments aren’t really like that in real life. I also think that Beck should’ve voiced her problems with Easton and Wyatt from the start because it was annoying how poorly she was being treated. And again, if she communicated with both of them and her boss we would have a less bittersweet ending.
But now into the things that I really adored in this book. Off the bat when I first met Jordan and Brooks I knew that he would be a son to her and she would be a mother figure. I also loved their dynamic of them supporting each other no matter what it was. They also always had each other’s backs and I felt like that really tied in to the found family with the Bulldogs basketball team and how well they played together.
I feel like everyone on the team were close to each other like family and I really loved that and everyone was supportive of Brooks being gay and of Jordan’s relationship with Beck. Even though Jordan had some doubts with Beck she always valued her team and how they were doing because she realized being the stickler coach wasn’t going to help the go all the way to the championship.
I feel like the relationship with our main characters went way too fast for me to catch up. Like there was no pining or any of the stuff that I was looking for. It was so insta lovely that I kinda wasn’t looking forward to their romance. I was mainly looking forward to the boys on the team and all of the side characters because they were more interesting. I also don’t think that Beck and Jordan should have said ‘I love you’ until the end of the book and not in between because this book takes course over a month and a half maybe more. I think they were rushing their relationship. But enough of my complaining. Again I want to say a big thanks to Samantha Saldivar and Ballantine books for giving me the e-arc of Play You For It.
November 7, 2025
thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the advanced digital copy.
this book is available for purchase now.
--
a really great sports romance that reminded me a lot of ted lasso, maybe a little bit of rudy. jordan's arc as a coach breaking barriers in men's college basketball was both hopeful and maddening in the best way because wow, it's frustrating to read about how people still believe women aren't capable of doing certain things just because they're women. it's not surprising, but the way this book captures the exhausting double standard, the pressure to be perfect just to compete with mediocre men, really hit hard.
the basketball side of things was immersive and detailed, which i loved. you could feel how much the author loves the game, and it elevated everything. jordan's relationship with her team and the grind of the season gave the story momentum beyond just the romance.
and speaking of the romance, it's the reason this wasn't a full five stars for me. i absolutely bought the chemistry between jordan and caroline, but their dynamic as a coach and a reporter was always going to be tricky. i found myself frustrated at some of caroline's choices, especially when she clearly prioritized her job in ways that felt dismissive of what jordan was risking. maybe that's realistic, but it made their connection feel a little shakier to me. still, the tension and forbidden vibe worked well overall.
this was a solid, smart, and heartfelt sports romance with two driven women at its center, and i really appreciated the balance between professional ambition and personal connection. definitely worth picking up if you like a bit of fire with your basketball.
this book is available for purchase now.
--
a really great sports romance that reminded me a lot of ted lasso, maybe a little bit of rudy. jordan's arc as a coach breaking barriers in men's college basketball was both hopeful and maddening in the best way because wow, it's frustrating to read about how people still believe women aren't capable of doing certain things just because they're women. it's not surprising, but the way this book captures the exhausting double standard, the pressure to be perfect just to compete with mediocre men, really hit hard.
the basketball side of things was immersive and detailed, which i loved. you could feel how much the author loves the game, and it elevated everything. jordan's relationship with her team and the grind of the season gave the story momentum beyond just the romance.
and speaking of the romance, it's the reason this wasn't a full five stars for me. i absolutely bought the chemistry between jordan and caroline, but their dynamic as a coach and a reporter was always going to be tricky. i found myself frustrated at some of caroline's choices, especially when she clearly prioritized her job in ways that felt dismissive of what jordan was risking. maybe that's realistic, but it made their connection feel a little shakier to me. still, the tension and forbidden vibe worked well overall.
this was a solid, smart, and heartfelt sports romance with two driven women at its center, and i really appreciated the balance between professional ambition and personal connection. definitely worth picking up if you like a bit of fire with your basketball.
September 17, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Samantha Saldivar, and Dell for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
There is something special about the way that Samantha Saldivar writes characters and their stories that drew me into this story. I'm a sucker for a found family story, which Coach D’Amato had with her team. I've noticed that in sapphic romance, even though it's my favorite genre, there tends to be at least one of the main female characters that I dislike. However, in this story, I loved Jordan and Beck; they are such relatable characters. I wanted both of them to succeed, whether they ended up together or not. That tells me how much I adored these characters. Many difficult topics in this book could be triggers for some, which include: coming out, "coming out after" rejection, sexism, and sexual harassment. Please, read with care. I liked the way that Samantha Saldivar handled these topics.
I look forward to reading more of their books in the future. I already noticed there’s another book coming out in 2026! There's one coming out in 2026! I can't wait! I highly recommend this book!
There is something special about the way that Samantha Saldivar writes characters and their stories that drew me into this story. I'm a sucker for a found family story, which Coach D’Amato had with her team. I've noticed that in sapphic romance, even though it's my favorite genre, there tends to be at least one of the main female characters that I dislike. However, in this story, I loved Jordan and Beck; they are such relatable characters. I wanted both of them to succeed, whether they ended up together or not. That tells me how much I adored these characters. Many difficult topics in this book could be triggers for some, which include: coming out, "coming out after" rejection, sexism, and sexual harassment. Please, read with care. I liked the way that Samantha Saldivar handled these topics.
I look forward to reading more of their books in the future. I already noticed there’s another book coming out in 2026! There's one coming out in 2026! I can't wait! I highly recommend this book!
November 4, 2025
I really enjoyed Play You For It! You can tell it was written by someone who truly understands both basketball and sports reporting—the details felt authentic and added so much depth to the story. I especially appreciated the side story focusing on Jordan’s relationship with her players; it gave her character extra heart and grounded the high-stakes setting.
Jordan and Beck’s relationship was a standout for me. They’re two passionate, driven women who felt like a total sports power couple—balancing ambition, vulnerability, and chemistry in such a believable way.
I’ll definitely be picking up more books by Samantha Saldivar.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Jordan and Beck’s relationship was a standout for me. They’re two passionate, driven women who felt like a total sports power couple—balancing ambition, vulnerability, and chemistry in such a believable way.
I’ll definitely be picking up more books by Samantha Saldivar.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2025
this is the second book of samantha’s i’ve had the pleasure of being able to do an arc of and she is quickly becoming one of my favorites! she is able to capture love, heartbreak and the guilt felt in between so expertly.
jordan and beck are two different parts of the same circle and are meant to stay on their respective sides, however life has different plans! the love of the game and the love of the girl could have jordan risking it all.
jordan and beck are two different parts of the same circle and are meant to stay on their respective sides, however life has different plans! the love of the game and the love of the girl could have jordan risking it all.
December 23, 2025
really really enjoyed this! the characters and their problems felt so realistic and flowed so naturally. my favorite parts of this were definitely the team interactions with jordan. i loved how much both jordan and beck grew throughout this too. the romance itself was good, not great. i'm a sucker for banter and would have appreciated a bit more of that but all other aspects of the book were great. 4.5 stars
August 2, 2025
I read this as an ARC via Edelweiss. Thank you to the publisher for access!
Play You for It was a deliciously cute romance, with a touch of genuinely thrilling sports writing. Coming into this, knowing that the premise involved a reporter, I was totally primed for the third-act conflict of this story to be Beck accidentally reporting on something she wasn't supposed to about Jordan, which causes them to break up, but actually it was a big misunderstanding and actually it was Beck's evil coworker who wrote something under her name, etc.. etc... but I was very pleasantly surprised when that wasn't the case at all! I won't spoil anything, but if you are like me and dread the frequently reused conflicts like that, you can rest easy knowing it isn't present here.
I want to touch on something I just mentioned, that being the sports writing. I don't mean in a journalistic sense, but the action that takes place during the few games that we get to watch through one of the characters' eyes are genuinely so well written. I don't know how to describe it properly, but the games had me on the edge of my seat. Maybe it's the tension from the stakes, maybe it is genuinely the tension from the game, either way it was super enjoyable. Often times when reading a sports romance the sports aspect is sorta skipped over or not very well done, so once again, it was a pleasant surprise that it was done as well as it was.
Give this one a shot, support a local PNW writer by reading this amazing PNW sports romance!
Play You for It was a deliciously cute romance, with a touch of genuinely thrilling sports writing. Coming into this, knowing that the premise involved a reporter, I was totally primed for the third-act conflict of this story to be Beck accidentally reporting on something she wasn't supposed to about Jordan, which causes them to break up, but actually it was a big misunderstanding and actually it was Beck's evil coworker who wrote something under her name, etc.. etc... but I was very pleasantly surprised when that wasn't the case at all! I won't spoil anything, but if you are like me and dread the frequently reused conflicts like that, you can rest easy knowing it isn't present here.
I want to touch on something I just mentioned, that being the sports writing. I don't mean in a journalistic sense, but the action that takes place during the few games that we get to watch through one of the characters' eyes are genuinely so well written. I don't know how to describe it properly, but the games had me on the edge of my seat. Maybe it's the tension from the stakes, maybe it is genuinely the tension from the game, either way it was super enjoyable. Often times when reading a sports romance the sports aspect is sorta skipped over or not very well done, so once again, it was a pleasant surprise that it was done as well as it was.
Give this one a shot, support a local PNW writer by reading this amazing PNW sports romance!
November 21, 2025
My friend wrote this book, so maybe I’m biased, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! Between reading “Play You For It” and “Beartown” this year, I’ve discovered I really enjoy sports fiction.
Thank you, Samantha, for writing a novel that accurately reflects the work of journalists, and many of the hardships in the industry — the hustle to climb the ladder, the travel and wacky hours, and the integrity they’re expected to uphold.
I will never look at the simple act of putting a lav mic on someone in the same way. 😉
Thank you, Samantha, for writing a novel that accurately reflects the work of journalists, and many of the hardships in the industry — the hustle to climb the ladder, the travel and wacky hours, and the integrity they’re expected to uphold.
I will never look at the simple act of putting a lav mic on someone in the same way. 😉
October 29, 2025
CANNOT SCREAM LOUD ENOUGH FOR THIS BOOK!!!!
This is Samantha Saldivar’s debut novel, and IT WAS FANTASTIC!!! ❤️
This is a sapphic romance, involving a Head Coach, Jordan D’Amato and Sport Journalist, Caroline Beck. From the moment you are introduced to these characters, you immediately drawn in by the headstrong, independent, yet welcoming reputations of both women in the work field, but also personally. Jordan is starting off as the FIRST WOMAN HEAD COACH of a top-level men’s college basketball team, and with that sparks the “big break” Caroline has been WAITING FOR.
Both women, in predominantly male career fields, are up against MAJOR pressure to succeed. For Coach, the media attention is attracting multiple reactions, and she is faced with being told if she doesn't win -she will be replaced/fired. (Immediately - ICK but ya know men...lol) . Her love for the game, her teams, and her career ?!
Caroline is trying to make a name for herself, but her ambition is what is truly remarkable. Her determination has her set out to land the first ever One on One interview with the First Woman Head Coach, no matter the costs. So, what can she do to persuade coach that she’s the right reporter for the job, and help her change the media’s narrative into a more postitive light? - place a bet. NOT just any bet, bet the former WNBA player, now coach to a game of horse ..... and you guessed it - “PLAY YOU FOR IT?”
This will by far by my top read of the year, I JUST KNOW IT. The writing, the quotes, the passion and love personally and with sports was truly so fun and engaging to read. I am so so so happy i got to read and experience this romance of Beck and Coach in a way that just pulled at every heartstring. I just cannot stress enough how everyone needs to read this, for the romance, for the friendships, for the emotions etc. ❤️
This is Samantha Saldivar’s debut novel, and IT WAS FANTASTIC!!! ❤️
This is a sapphic romance, involving a Head Coach, Jordan D’Amato and Sport Journalist, Caroline Beck. From the moment you are introduced to these characters, you immediately drawn in by the headstrong, independent, yet welcoming reputations of both women in the work field, but also personally. Jordan is starting off as the FIRST WOMAN HEAD COACH of a top-level men’s college basketball team, and with that sparks the “big break” Caroline has been WAITING FOR.
Both women, in predominantly male career fields, are up against MAJOR pressure to succeed. For Coach, the media attention is attracting multiple reactions, and she is faced with being told if she doesn't win -she will be replaced/fired. (Immediately - ICK but ya know men...lol) . Her love for the game, her teams, and her career ?!
Caroline is trying to make a name for herself, but her ambition is what is truly remarkable. Her determination has her set out to land the first ever One on One interview with the First Woman Head Coach, no matter the costs. So, what can she do to persuade coach that she’s the right reporter for the job, and help her change the media’s narrative into a more postitive light? - place a bet. NOT just any bet, bet the former WNBA player, now coach to a game of horse ..... and you guessed it - “PLAY YOU FOR IT?”
This will by far by my top read of the year, I JUST KNOW IT. The writing, the quotes, the passion and love personally and with sports was truly so fun and engaging to read. I am so so so happy i got to read and experience this romance of Beck and Coach in a way that just pulled at every heartstring. I just cannot stress enough how everyone needs to read this, for the romance, for the friendships, for the emotions etc. ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2025
Play You For It is a slam dunk! Saldivar expertly balances romance and storytelling in her debut novel. The stakes are real, the spice is hot, and the characters are worth falling for.
November 22, 2025
4.5⭐️
Such a cute sports romance between a basketball coach and a sports journalist! I loved the dynamic between Jordan and Beck from sweet to their friendly bickering. Not only did the main romantic relationship draw me in but I loved seeing the bond of Jordan and the team. The boys on the team were such vidid characters and their bond had me cheering them on by the end of the book. Each character was so distinct that you couldn’t help but love each one.
I may not be very well versed in basketball but I thoroughly enjoyed this sports romance. I found myself missing the characters once I put down the book.
Such a cute sports romance between a basketball coach and a sports journalist! I loved the dynamic between Jordan and Beck from sweet to their friendly bickering. Not only did the main romantic relationship draw me in but I loved seeing the bond of Jordan and the team. The boys on the team were such vidid characters and their bond had me cheering them on by the end of the book. Each character was so distinct that you couldn’t help but love each one.
I may not be very well versed in basketball but I thoroughly enjoyed this sports romance. I found myself missing the characters once I put down the book.
December 10, 2025
This is one of the best sport romances I’ve ever read. Both characters felt real, mature and well developed. I rooted for both of them so much. Delivered a great HEA. Looking forward to more books from this author.
December 26, 2025
Play You For It by Samantha Saldivar is a sapphic romance novel starring a female coach of a D1 men's basketball team and a local female sports journalist. I love a sapphic sports romance, and I have not read one yet where neither of the MCs is playing.
Beck, being a journalist, has charm and determination and is willing to do what it takes to get her source. She is real and persistent in her approach and I loved her spunk. I was obbsessed with Jordans coaching arc, and her finally finding her footing. And her team being on her side was heartwarming. The chemistry and banter between the two are fantastic, and I love the play you for it scenes and their communication with one another. The real-world issues with falling for someone that could potentially change your life and ruin your career felt real and authentic. This brand of forbidden had eating up everyword. This a book you I would highly reccomend picking up.
Thank you to Netgally and Ballantine | Dell for the copy to review in exchange for an honest review
Beck, being a journalist, has charm and determination and is willing to do what it takes to get her source. She is real and persistent in her approach and I loved her spunk. I was obbsessed with Jordans coaching arc, and her finally finding her footing. And her team being on her side was heartwarming. The chemistry and banter between the two are fantastic, and I love the play you for it scenes and their communication with one another. The real-world issues with falling for someone that could potentially change your life and ruin your career felt real and authentic. This brand of forbidden had eating up everyword. This a book you I would highly reccomend picking up.
Thank you to Netgally and Ballantine | Dell for the copy to review in exchange for an honest review
November 5, 2025
Thank you so much NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for this ARC!
Jordan, who just went from assistant coach to head coach of a male university basketball team, and Beck, a small station reporter, are women in male centric fields struggling to prove themselves against all the bigotry they face, constantly fighting to show the world that they deserve to be where they are, that they deserve to succeed. They're both very passionate about their jobs.
The romance is really sweet, even though a bit "troublesome" due to the circumstances of Jordan being a source and Beck being a reporter. Sometimes they try to fight their attraction, sometimes they give in - it's a bit unsettling how they keep going back and forth so often and so suddenly. But yeah, it does have that little touch of forbidden romance for those who like it. Also... they're cozy scenes together were so sweet!!
I really enjoyed the setting as well, I mean, a sapphic romance between a reporter and a basketball player/coach? COUNT ME IN. They're also both in their early thirties, which is a good thing too - I believe there's always room for more adult sapphic romance. The book has a romcom-y vibe, which I also love, and a happy ending. And altough Jordan's pov started a bit stiff and it threw me off a little, it did get better at some point. I felt like the author struggled to find Jordan's voice, while with Beck things went on more smoothly.
This was very entertaining overall, but, in my opinion, there were too many men. Going in, I knew it would be a sapphic romance so I guess I just assumed there would be more women. I was wrong. Aside from Jordan and Beck themselves, there were maybe one or two women that appeared consistently along the story. Unfortunately, for me, this is a downside. However, I understand that they both are in male centric fields and the story revolves a lot around their jobs: Jordan coaches a male team, Beck is a sports reporter... I get it. Doesn't mean I have to like it, though.
The constant sexism and misoginy is exhausting, but it really surprised me (negativelly) when the women validated it somehow. A male character would be like "hey these men don't like you because you're too harsh, you're not being understanding enough" and the women agree? Like, no, girl. They don't like you because they're sexist pigs. She's told "you should be nicer" and she's like "you're right, I'm sorry", like... GIRL?! It honestly pissed me off. And one scene specifically where Jordan gets mad for all the wrong reasons, with focus on what doesn't matter, when a man is being gross towards Beck... Ugh. Beck's reaction was pretty weird too. It made me a bit icky.
I liked it! However, I would've liked it more if there were more women lol, and more female friendships specially - I believe they're always of extreme importance in any piece of media. I finished it rather quickly and my heart literally ached in many of the sweet and tense moments. Beck's yearning was on point, SO GOOD, but I do believe Jordan's could've been more shown than told (lesbian yearning is the best, like, c'mon!)
If you want to read a quick and sweet sapphic romcom-like story set in the sports world, please consider picking this up!
CONTENT WARNINGS: Homophobia, Misogyny, Sexism, Lesbophobia, Sexual harassment
Jordan, who just went from assistant coach to head coach of a male university basketball team, and Beck, a small station reporter, are women in male centric fields struggling to prove themselves against all the bigotry they face, constantly fighting to show the world that they deserve to be where they are, that they deserve to succeed. They're both very passionate about their jobs.
The romance is really sweet, even though a bit "troublesome" due to the circumstances of Jordan being a source and Beck being a reporter. Sometimes they try to fight their attraction, sometimes they give in - it's a bit unsettling how they keep going back and forth so often and so suddenly. But yeah, it does have that little touch of forbidden romance for those who like it. Also... they're cozy scenes together were so sweet!!
I really enjoyed the setting as well, I mean, a sapphic romance between a reporter and a basketball player/coach? COUNT ME IN. They're also both in their early thirties, which is a good thing too - I believe there's always room for more adult sapphic romance. The book has a romcom-y vibe, which I also love, and a happy ending. And altough Jordan's pov started a bit stiff and it threw me off a little, it did get better at some point. I felt like the author struggled to find Jordan's voice, while with Beck things went on more smoothly.
This was very entertaining overall, but, in my opinion, there were too many men. Going in, I knew it would be a sapphic romance so I guess I just assumed there would be more women. I was wrong. Aside from Jordan and Beck themselves, there were maybe one or two women that appeared consistently along the story. Unfortunately, for me, this is a downside. However, I understand that they both are in male centric fields and the story revolves a lot around their jobs: Jordan coaches a male team, Beck is a sports reporter... I get it. Doesn't mean I have to like it, though.
The constant sexism and misoginy is exhausting, but it really surprised me (negativelly) when the women validated it somehow. A male character would be like "hey these men don't like you because you're too harsh, you're not being understanding enough" and the women agree? Like, no, girl. They don't like you because they're sexist pigs. She's told "you should be nicer" and she's like "you're right, I'm sorry", like... GIRL?! It honestly pissed me off. And one scene specifically where Jordan gets mad for all the wrong reasons, with focus on what doesn't matter, when a man is being gross towards Beck... Ugh. Beck's reaction was pretty weird too. It made me a bit icky.
I liked it! However, I would've liked it more if there were more women lol, and more female friendships specially - I believe they're always of extreme importance in any piece of media. I finished it rather quickly and my heart literally ached in many of the sweet and tense moments. Beck's yearning was on point, SO GOOD, but I do believe Jordan's could've been more shown than told (lesbian yearning is the best, like, c'mon!)
If you want to read a quick and sweet sapphic romcom-like story set in the sports world, please consider picking this up!
CONTENT WARNINGS: Homophobia, Misogyny, Sexism, Lesbophobia, Sexual harassment
November 27, 2025
When the book begins, we meet Jordan, who is an assistant coach for a college basketball team. The head coach, whom she's worked with closely for years, is leaving to coach an NBA team; he wants Jordan to take over his job. The higher-ups are skeptical of a woman running their men's team, but they reluctantly agree to give her the job temporarily as a test run.
Beck is a sports reporter who is covering Jordan's history-making promotion. She wants to get the first interview with Jordan to prove herself to her bosses, who favor her male colleagues.
The two women are clearly interested in each other, and they both realize that fairly early on. Both women are career-oriented, and their personal lives have taken a backseat to their jobs. Much of their conflict comes as they learn to balance their relationship with their professions. It's a great dynamic that I haven't seen in many romances.
This book tackles societal issues that lend the story a depth I didn't expect. Both women deal with sexism that many women, especially those who work in male-dominated professions, will likely relate to. The book has an optimistic message, but its realistic portrayal of these ongoing issues lends the book a sense of realism that other sports romances can sometimes lack.
My favorite parts of the book were the first and the final thirds, which focused heavily on Jordan and her team. I found her struggles with the team owners, the players, and the fans to be incredibly interesting, and I loved watching her (and those around her) grow. Her relationship with her players is especially moving at times. The middle section of the book dragged a bit as it focused on other things, but it all comes together for a fantastic ending!
* I received an advanced copy of this book for free, thanks to NetGalley & the publisher. *
Beck is a sports reporter who is covering Jordan's history-making promotion. She wants to get the first interview with Jordan to prove herself to her bosses, who favor her male colleagues.
The two women are clearly interested in each other, and they both realize that fairly early on. Both women are career-oriented, and their personal lives have taken a backseat to their jobs. Much of their conflict comes as they learn to balance their relationship with their professions. It's a great dynamic that I haven't seen in many romances.
This book tackles societal issues that lend the story a depth I didn't expect. Both women deal with sexism that many women, especially those who work in male-dominated professions, will likely relate to. The book has an optimistic message, but its realistic portrayal of these ongoing issues lends the book a sense of realism that other sports romances can sometimes lack.
My favorite parts of the book were the first and the final thirds, which focused heavily on Jordan and her team. I found her struggles with the team owners, the players, and the fans to be incredibly interesting, and I loved watching her (and those around her) grow. Her relationship with her players is especially moving at times. The middle section of the book dragged a bit as it focused on other things, but it all comes together for a fantastic ending!
* I received an advanced copy of this book for free, thanks to NetGalley & the publisher. *
October 19, 2025
In this sizzling sapphic romance, sparks fly between a sports journalist and her latest source, the first woman to be named head coach of a D1 ment's basketball learn but are they wukkubg ti risk their careers for a shot at love.
When Jordan D'Amato becomes the fist woman named head coach of a tope level ment's college basketball team joinrnalist Caroline
Beck is determined to get the story. After years of scraping her way into the world of sports reporting. Beck knows that snagging the first one one one interview with the elusive head coach could be her beg break. But Jordan is wary of the media & Attention historic new appointment attracts, especially as her basss makes it clear that it's a temporary assignment if she doesn't lead the team to victory it won't become permanent.
Beck's persistence however charms Jordan and she agrees to sit down for an interview. The two women have undeniable chemistry bu the journalist definitely can't fall for a sources and Jordan certainly can't fully trust the ambitious reporter who has every reason to use her team secrets for the next big scoop. Though they both know it would ruin their reputations and likely cost them theirs jobs if anyone found out they were romantically involved, they can't seem to stay away from each other. With the national tournament in sight both of their of their carriers on the line, they must decide whether to take the shot on their budding love story or walk away from the rest game they've been playing for good
Thanks NetGalley, Samantha Saldivar, and penguin Random House for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#NetGalley
#Playyouforit
#PenguinRandomHouse
#Samantha Salivar
When Jordan D'Amato becomes the fist woman named head coach of a tope level ment's college basketball team joinrnalist Caroline
Beck is determined to get the story. After years of scraping her way into the world of sports reporting. Beck knows that snagging the first one one one interview with the elusive head coach could be her beg break. But Jordan is wary of the media & Attention historic new appointment attracts, especially as her basss makes it clear that it's a temporary assignment if she doesn't lead the team to victory it won't become permanent.
Beck's persistence however charms Jordan and she agrees to sit down for an interview. The two women have undeniable chemistry bu the journalist definitely can't fall for a sources and Jordan certainly can't fully trust the ambitious reporter who has every reason to use her team secrets for the next big scoop. Though they both know it would ruin their reputations and likely cost them theirs jobs if anyone found out they were romantically involved, they can't seem to stay away from each other. With the national tournament in sight both of their of their carriers on the line, they must decide whether to take the shot on their budding love story or walk away from the rest game they've been playing for good
Thanks NetGalley, Samantha Saldivar, and penguin Random House for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#NetGalley
#Playyouforit
#PenguinRandomHouse
#Samantha Salivar
November 29, 2025
Play You for It follows Jordan, the first woman to lead a D1 men’s basketball team, and Caroline, a sharp, determined sports reporter whose job often puts her at odds with the very people she writes about. When their professional worlds collide, chemistry sparks, tensions rise, and both are forced to navigate the delicate line between ambition, loyalty, and love within the high-pressure world of college basketball.
________________________________________________
This story holds a special place in my heart. Experiencing everything through the perspective of a coach and a reporter gave the narrative such a unique and compelling angle on the game. I loved seeing the intensity of recruiting, the nonstop pressure to produce results, and the emotional weight that coaching places on someone’s shoulders. The glimpses into the players Jordan worked with made the team feel like its own constellation of personalities, and I genuinely felt like I got to know them. Also, I loved the details that went into the basketball games and the play descriptions themselves.
The ending sent me on a full emotional ride. The small time skip was beautifully handled, and the way the author tied loose ends together made the story feel complete in the most satisfying way. Watching Jordan and Caroline progress in their careers and work through the realistic challenges of dating across such delicate professional lines felt honest and heartfelt. Their relationship never felt idealized; it felt earned.
This novel was such an excellent read. I loved every moment and cannot wait to read more from Samantha Saldivar.
________________________________________________
This story holds a special place in my heart. Experiencing everything through the perspective of a coach and a reporter gave the narrative such a unique and compelling angle on the game. I loved seeing the intensity of recruiting, the nonstop pressure to produce results, and the emotional weight that coaching places on someone’s shoulders. The glimpses into the players Jordan worked with made the team feel like its own constellation of personalities, and I genuinely felt like I got to know them. Also, I loved the details that went into the basketball games and the play descriptions themselves.
The ending sent me on a full emotional ride. The small time skip was beautifully handled, and the way the author tied loose ends together made the story feel complete in the most satisfying way. Watching Jordan and Caroline progress in their careers and work through the realistic challenges of dating across such delicate professional lines felt honest and heartfelt. Their relationship never felt idealized; it felt earned.
This novel was such an excellent read. I loved every moment and cannot wait to read more from Samantha Saldivar.
October 15, 2025
This is an all-around great book. I loved how real this felt; that's what I liked and appreciated the most. The intensity felt silly at first, but I warmed up to it quickly. Both characters felt like real people. Yeah, they flip-flopped about what they wanted and what they were willing to risk, but it felt authentic and human. I felt like I was reading about two real people, not a fictional romance book. I'm so excited to read more of this author's work.
I like that we can easily see both characters' flaws. Some books, even dual pov, have one character that seems more flawed than the other. Still, both of these characters bring equal issues to the relationship. They have different problems, but I never thought that one of them is more aggressively in the wrong than the other. When they fight, it's over understandable stuff from both sides, so it makes sense.
I can say with my full chest that I would recommend this book to anyone. There were a couple of "open door" scenes, but in a "it's cracked open at night" type of way, not wide open and explicit. It's vague almost to a point of weird, but that's neither here nor there, and it didn't take away from the story. I don't know what else to say to convince you to read it except that it felt real. Both characters had real issues that they brought into the relationship, and their fights didn't feel ridiculous; they felt like two people fighting for both their careers and each other.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 rounded up)
🌶️ (2.5 scenes, very vague & barely open door)
I like that we can easily see both characters' flaws. Some books, even dual pov, have one character that seems more flawed than the other. Still, both of these characters bring equal issues to the relationship. They have different problems, but I never thought that one of them is more aggressively in the wrong than the other. When they fight, it's over understandable stuff from both sides, so it makes sense.
I can say with my full chest that I would recommend this book to anyone. There were a couple of "open door" scenes, but in a "it's cracked open at night" type of way, not wide open and explicit. It's vague almost to a point of weird, but that's neither here nor there, and it didn't take away from the story. I don't know what else to say to convince you to read it except that it felt real. Both characters had real issues that they brought into the relationship, and their fights didn't feel ridiculous; they felt like two people fighting for both their careers and each other.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 rounded up)
🌶️ (2.5 scenes, very vague & barely open door)
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