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Blindsided By You
She makes the rules. He wants to break them all.
JENNA
I have rules. Don’t mix business with pleasure. Don’t fall for nice guys who’ll break my heart. And absolutely don’t get involved with my father’s rugby players—especially not my best friend’s younger brother.
But Geordie MacDonald isn’t the sunny little boy who once trailed after me through Cluanie anymore. The man who’s returned from the oil rigs is all quiet confidence and capable hands, with a golden heart that makes my carefully constructed walls crumble.
Our attraction was supposed to burn out quickly. A secret fling to get each other out of our systems. Yet as autumn deepens in the Highlands, so does our connection—one that could cost him his place on the team, and me my hard-won independence.
GEORDIE
Eight years away taught me how to survive harsh conditions, but nothing prepared me for the storm that is Jenna Sharpe. My sister’s best friend. My coach’s daughter. The woman I’ve wanted since the first time I laid eyes on her.
She says we’re just having fun—that’s what she insisted that first night. But there’s nothing casual about how I feel when she’s in my arms. Now I’m playing the best rugby of my life by day and sneaking through town to be with her by night.
In a place where whispers travel faster than rugby scores, keeping us hidden might be impossible. But revealing what we are could destroy everything we’ve worked for—and everything we’re beginning to feel.
Some games aren’t played on the field. And some hearts don’t follow the rulebook.
JENNA
I have rules. Don’t mix business with pleasure. Don’t fall for nice guys who’ll break my heart. And absolutely don’t get involved with my father’s rugby players—especially not my best friend’s younger brother.
But Geordie MacDonald isn’t the sunny little boy who once trailed after me through Cluanie anymore. The man who’s returned from the oil rigs is all quiet confidence and capable hands, with a golden heart that makes my carefully constructed walls crumble.
Our attraction was supposed to burn out quickly. A secret fling to get each other out of our systems. Yet as autumn deepens in the Highlands, so does our connection—one that could cost him his place on the team, and me my hard-won independence.
GEORDIE
Eight years away taught me how to survive harsh conditions, but nothing prepared me for the storm that is Jenna Sharpe. My sister’s best friend. My coach’s daughter. The woman I’ve wanted since the first time I laid eyes on her.
She says we’re just having fun—that’s what she insisted that first night. But there’s nothing casual about how I feel when she’s in my arms. Now I’m playing the best rugby of my life by day and sneaking through town to be with her by night.
In a place where whispers travel faster than rugby scores, keeping us hidden might be impossible. But revealing what we are could destroy everything we’ve worked for—and everything we’re beginning to feel.
Some games aren’t played on the field. And some hearts don’t follow the rulebook.
405 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2025
6 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Corvin
8 books92 followersCaroline Corvin is a writer of romance fiction. Before publishing her first novel, Caroline had a career in education, from classroom teacher of lively little people, to principal of a large primary school. Mother of fur kids—dogs, cats and vertically challenged horses—she’s sometimes described as animal obsessed. But she’s made room in her life for her other magnificent obsessions: travel, genealogy, history, some stargazing and, of course, books.
Raised under the shadow of a volcano in provincial New Zealand, she now lives on the edge of Auckland, the City of Sails with stunning beaches and good coffee (and surrounded by more volcanoes, fortunately extinct).
Caroline didn’t set out to write romance, but her characters took control the moment she let them loose on the page, reminding her that finding happy ever afters are the reason she’s one of those people who sometimes reads the last page first—just to be safe.
Raised under the shadow of a volcano in provincial New Zealand, she now lives on the edge of Auckland, the City of Sails with stunning beaches and good coffee (and surrounded by more volcanoes, fortunately extinct).
Caroline didn’t set out to write romance, but her characters took control the moment she let them loose on the page, reminding her that finding happy ever afters are the reason she’s one of those people who sometimes reads the last page first—just to be safe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
May 19, 2025
I think this will turn out to be a good book once some more editing is done. This is an age gap, best friend's younger brother, coach's daughter romance.
What I liked about the book: I loved that we got to see the family dynamics between both characters. Usually you only get snippets. I also loved the relationships between the guys on the rugby team.
What I didn't like about the book: It felt incredibly slow, pacing wise. Jenna, our fmc, felt flaky as a character. Also not a fan of the miscommunication trope. That's just a personal dislike.
I think if more editing is completed and a look more into Jenna's arc throughout the book, I think it will be better come June 3rd!
What I liked about the book: I loved that we got to see the family dynamics between both characters. Usually you only get snippets. I also loved the relationships between the guys on the rugby team.
What I didn't like about the book: It felt incredibly slow, pacing wise. Jenna, our fmc, felt flaky as a character. Also not a fan of the miscommunication trope. That's just a personal dislike.
I think if more editing is completed and a look more into Jenna's arc throughout the book, I think it will be better come June 3rd!
May 8, 2025
E-ARC REVIEW
This was a solid sports romance read for me. It could use some editing to make the story flow better, as parts did seem repetitive, and other parts came across as choppy.
I’ll start with the things I enjoyed. I really enjoyed the childhood friends reunited as adults trope, and the friends with benefits that came out of that relationship. I also loved Andy, Jenna’s stubborn little dog. I think this book did a great job discussing the effects of losing a parent, and how previous relationships can shape how we act in future relationships.
Now for the parts I didn’t love about this book. And take these criticisms lightly. I do not pretend to know anything about rugby aside from following the rugby 7s just for Ilona Maher. This book had a lot of rugby terms, which is to be expected. I would’ve appreciated a key or some parts of the book where rugby was explained in simpler terms. I also think the relationship, although well thought-out, moved in a weird slow and fast pace. I felt like the whole book was spent dealing with their back and forth feelings about their relationship’s future.
ETA: On May 8, 2025, the author of this book, Caroline, updated the ARCs to include a quick guide to rugby for readers! I cannot express how much it means that the author is taking feedback into consideration and working to make her work more accessible! I loved this addition! Worthy of an increase from 3 stars to 4 stars in my opinion!
This was a solid sports romance read for me. It could use some editing to make the story flow better, as parts did seem repetitive, and other parts came across as choppy.
I’ll start with the things I enjoyed. I really enjoyed the childhood friends reunited as adults trope, and the friends with benefits that came out of that relationship. I also loved Andy, Jenna’s stubborn little dog. I think this book did a great job discussing the effects of losing a parent, and how previous relationships can shape how we act in future relationships.
Now for the parts I didn’t love about this book. And take these criticisms lightly. I do not pretend to know anything about rugby aside from following the rugby 7s just for Ilona Maher. This book had a lot of rugby terms, which is to be expected. I would’ve appreciated a key or some parts of the book where rugby was explained in simpler terms. I also think the relationship, although well thought-out, moved in a weird slow and fast pace. I felt like the whole book was spent dealing with their back and forth feelings about their relationship’s future.
ETA: On May 8, 2025, the author of this book, Caroline, updated the ARCs to include a quick guide to rugby for readers! I cannot express how much it means that the author is taking feedback into consideration and working to make her work more accessible! I loved this addition! Worthy of an increase from 3 stars to 4 stars in my opinion!
May 14, 2025
Blindsided By You is a best friends younger brother rugby romance set in Scotland. It features Jenna and Geordie who have grown up together and they both return home after years away and realise they have feelings for each other. This was an enjoyable read however I struggled with some chapters as I felt there were too many story lines at times and I think some of them we really didn’t need. There is a lot of rugby in this one which I didn’t mind and I did enjoy this one. I received a complementary copy from NetGalley.
June 2, 2025
Jenna and Geordie story is based on the chance that Geordie would never have an opportunity to date Jenna because she is the coaches daughter. Okay, sign me up! Well, I can report back and state that I did finish this book, however, the pacing and flow felt like it dragged on a bit.
Honestly, the large background information could have been tightened up a bit and gotten straight to the point. I do love a long winded narration when it serves purpose. This felt like it was words filling a page and did not add depth to the story or character development.
I do love the fact that Geordie has a learning disability that was showcased and spoken about because invisible differences are often overlooked and can put a damper on a characters evolution. This did not. It added depth to his character and I loved that he didn't allow it to stop him from being successful.
Jenna's character could use some work. I understand that she is going through a lot but her character felt like there was something missing. Or maybe it was her acting like a child when she was triggered. I personally don't know of people who run when triggered but hey, I guess that's a thing?
Overall, I enjoyed the story and the diverse representation of characters, the ending (even if it could have been a bit sooner), and the friends around both of these characters. Rounded up from 3.75 to 4 Stars.
Honestly, the large background information could have been tightened up a bit and gotten straight to the point. I do love a long winded narration when it serves purpose. This felt like it was words filling a page and did not add depth to the story or character development.
I do love the fact that Geordie has a learning disability that was showcased and spoken about because invisible differences are often overlooked and can put a damper on a characters evolution. This did not. It added depth to his character and I loved that he didn't allow it to stop him from being successful.
Jenna's character could use some work. I understand that she is going through a lot but her character felt like there was something missing. Or maybe it was her acting like a child when she was triggered. I personally don't know of people who run when triggered but hey, I guess that's a thing?
Overall, I enjoyed the story and the diverse representation of characters, the ending (even if it could have been a bit sooner), and the friends around both of these characters. Rounded up from 3.75 to 4 Stars.
May 30, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive this as an ARC. I’m not one to enjoy a romcom book, but I throughly enjoyed seeing the dynamics of the MFC and MMC change. It’s a feel good book, that shows, despite age gaps things can happen!
May 7, 2025
This book has good bones, but it needs a lot more editing. Jenna is a 34 year old PR specialist who moved back to her hometown with her rugby coach father when her mother gets sick and passes away. Geordie is a 38 year old amateur rugby player who moves back home after working on drill rigs all over the world, and Jen is his sister's best friend. The book takes place over 6ish weeks I think, but the timeline isn't super clear throughout. It's pretty heavy on expository writing, so there are long paragraphs of internal monologue that aren't plot-focussed.
I think some of my issues with the characters may just be cultural differences, but a 34 year old living at home and letting her dad dictate her dating life is not something I find normal. I had a really hard time not rolling my eyes every time Jen mentioned hiding their relationship from her dad. For her age, she acted really immature throughout the book and it made her really unlikable. It felt like she kept stringing Geordie along and giving him little crumbs of hope when she had no intention on following through; I felt bad for Geordie the whole time because he deserved someone better.
The pacing of the story needed some work as it felt really clunky in some parts. In the middle of the chapter, there was a time jump with no explanation of how much time had passed and no change in font or spacing to let you know the scene had changed. I finally got to a part where it said 2 days had passed, and I had to go back and reread multiple pages because I needed that context. There were also some events that occurred (I'm avoiding spoilers) that were completely unnecessary. There was a traumatic event that doesn't actually move the plot forward at all because Jen had already had her phonecard with her old boss. Geordie's mom being sick is mentioned like twice, but doesn't do anything for the story because he doesn't seem that worried about her. Also, Jen has 2 migraines over the course of I think 2 weeks. Girl go to the doctor and get yourself some new meds because, as someone with migraines, that is unacceptable.
I think this story was fun and I definitely enjoyed it, I just wish the plot was a bit tighter.
Thank you NetGalley and Caroline Corvin for the free eARC!
I think some of my issues with the characters may just be cultural differences, but a 34 year old living at home and letting her dad dictate her dating life is not something I find normal. I had a really hard time not rolling my eyes every time Jen mentioned hiding their relationship from her dad. For her age, she acted really immature throughout the book and it made her really unlikable. It felt like she kept stringing Geordie along and giving him little crumbs of hope when she had no intention on following through; I felt bad for Geordie the whole time because he deserved someone better.
The pacing of the story needed some work as it felt really clunky in some parts. In the middle of the chapter, there was a time jump with no explanation of how much time had passed and no change in font or spacing to let you know the scene had changed. I finally got to a part where it said 2 days had passed, and I had to go back and reread multiple pages because I needed that context. There were also some events that occurred (I'm avoiding spoilers) that were completely unnecessary. There was a traumatic event that doesn't actually move the plot forward at all because Jen had already had her phonecard with her old boss. Geordie's mom being sick is mentioned like twice, but doesn't do anything for the story because he doesn't seem that worried about her. Also, Jen has 2 migraines over the course of I think 2 weeks. Girl go to the doctor and get yourself some new meds because, as someone with migraines, that is unacceptable.
I think this story was fun and I definitely enjoyed it, I just wish the plot was a bit tighter.
Thank you NetGalley and Caroline Corvin for the free eARC!
July 17, 2025
2/5 ✩ - best friends brother, older woman, rugby romance, themes of grief, death and cancer
Summary PR Manager Jenna moves back home after her mothers passing and finds herself in a situationship with Geordie, her best friends little brother who also plays for her dads rugby team. Jenna is mainly hesitant but Geordie is down bad for her.
────୨ৎ────
Immediate thoughts
Unfortunately, this just wasn't for me. It was fun, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped I would
what I loved
I enjoyed some of the struggles faced by both our main characters; I think they were explored well. For example, Geordie's struggle with dyslexia and his father and Jennas' conflict with her job and the passing of her mother. I liked the side characters and their impact on the plot, not too much, but also added a bit extra to the story. I thought the romance was cute; however, I felt like something was missing. Sometimes I would believe it, and other times I wouldn't. It was nice to read about a sport that isn't a professional league but still has the passion and competitiveness of it. I liked the sense of community portrayed in Cluanie.
what I didn’t love
My main issues were the pacing and tone; they did not feel consistent throughout the book. It was overall slow, but then there would be scenes where the characters getting to places is missed out, but there are 5 pages of the same internal monologue. This was another issue for me, the conflict of them being together was so repetitive, and it felt like suddenly the issue changed and was fine. The slang and terminology used in the first few chapters are not consistent throughout the book, and make it feel disjointed, along with the uneven pacing. Also, the last thing I expected was for someone to die. I understand that grief was a theme here, but it genuinely felt so random; I was baffled. Some of the spice felt repetitive, and the dialogue to accompany it was a hit or miss for me. Why is a 34-year-old not dating people because her Dad said so, and then when he finds out he's fine with it, I understand this is just another miscommunication, but this was insane to me.
────୨ৎ────
Overall
I found myself forced to read this, and even though it has a solid foundation, I don't think it was my cup of tea.
🌶️3
⭐️2
📖 9 day reading time
Summary PR Manager Jenna moves back home after her mothers passing and finds herself in a situationship with Geordie, her best friends little brother who also plays for her dads rugby team. Jenna is mainly hesitant but Geordie is down bad for her.
────୨ৎ────
Immediate thoughts
Unfortunately, this just wasn't for me. It was fun, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped I would
what I loved
I enjoyed some of the struggles faced by both our main characters; I think they were explored well. For example, Geordie's struggle with dyslexia and his father and Jennas' conflict with her job and the passing of her mother. I liked the side characters and their impact on the plot, not too much, but also added a bit extra to the story. I thought the romance was cute; however, I felt like something was missing. Sometimes I would believe it, and other times I wouldn't. It was nice to read about a sport that isn't a professional league but still has the passion and competitiveness of it. I liked the sense of community portrayed in Cluanie.
what I didn’t love
My main issues were the pacing and tone; they did not feel consistent throughout the book. It was overall slow, but then there would be scenes where the characters getting to places is missed out, but there are 5 pages of the same internal monologue. This was another issue for me, the conflict of them being together was so repetitive, and it felt like suddenly the issue changed and was fine. The slang and terminology used in the first few chapters are not consistent throughout the book, and make it feel disjointed, along with the uneven pacing. Also, the last thing I expected was for someone to die. I understand that grief was a theme here, but it genuinely felt so random; I was baffled. Some of the spice felt repetitive, and the dialogue to accompany it was a hit or miss for me. Why is a 34-year-old not dating people because her Dad said so, and then when he finds out he's fine with it, I understand this is just another miscommunication, but this was insane to me.
────୨ৎ────
Overall
I found myself forced to read this, and even though it has a solid foundation, I don't think it was my cup of tea.
🌶️3
⭐️2
📖 9 day reading time
June 2, 2025
Blindsided By You is a solid, slow-burn sports romance that blends small-town charm, family dynamics, and forbidden love with a dash of humor and heart. I was lucky enough to receive an E-ARC of this book, and while I think it needs a bit more editing to fully shine, the bones of a great story are definitely here.
This is an age-gap, best friend’s younger brother, coach’s daughter romance—a delicious combo for fans of layered, character-driven love stories. Jenna, a 34-year-old PR specialist, returns to her hometown after her mother’s passing, only to find herself drawn to Geordie, her best friend’s younger brother and a recently returned amateur rugby player. Their chemistry is undeniable, and what starts as a secret fling quickly deepens into something more.
What stood out most to me were the strong family dynamics on both sides. It was refreshing to see those relationships explored beyond just surface-level mentions. I also loved the camaraderie among the rugby team—it added warmth and authenticity to the story.
However, the book does suffer from pacing issues. The story moves slowly, weighed down by heavy exposition and long internal monologues that often stalled the plot. Some sections felt repetitive or choppy, and I found myself wishing the timeline and structure were a bit clearer. Jenna, as a character, came off somewhat inconsistent, which made it hard to fully connect with her at times. I’m also personally not a fan of the miscommunication trope, which played a role here.
That said, the romance itself was sweet and believable, with real emotional payoff. Geordie is a golden-hearted hero who’s easy to root for, and the chemistry between him and Jenna is palpable. This was my first rugby romance, and while I struggled with some of the technical aspects of the sport, however, the emotional depth and romantic development kept me engaged.
Overall, Blindsided By You is a heartfelt story that just needs a bit more polish to reach its full potential. If you enjoy slow placed forbidden romance with family ties, strong emotional moments, and a rugged sports backdrop, this might be worth checking out.
This is an age-gap, best friend’s younger brother, coach’s daughter romance—a delicious combo for fans of layered, character-driven love stories. Jenna, a 34-year-old PR specialist, returns to her hometown after her mother’s passing, only to find herself drawn to Geordie, her best friend’s younger brother and a recently returned amateur rugby player. Their chemistry is undeniable, and what starts as a secret fling quickly deepens into something more.
What stood out most to me were the strong family dynamics on both sides. It was refreshing to see those relationships explored beyond just surface-level mentions. I also loved the camaraderie among the rugby team—it added warmth and authenticity to the story.
However, the book does suffer from pacing issues. The story moves slowly, weighed down by heavy exposition and long internal monologues that often stalled the plot. Some sections felt repetitive or choppy, and I found myself wishing the timeline and structure were a bit clearer. Jenna, as a character, came off somewhat inconsistent, which made it hard to fully connect with her at times. I’m also personally not a fan of the miscommunication trope, which played a role here.
That said, the romance itself was sweet and believable, with real emotional payoff. Geordie is a golden-hearted hero who’s easy to root for, and the chemistry between him and Jenna is palpable. This was my first rugby romance, and while I struggled with some of the technical aspects of the sport, however, the emotional depth and romantic development kept me engaged.
Overall, Blindsided By You is a heartfelt story that just needs a bit more polish to reach its full potential. If you enjoy slow placed forbidden romance with family ties, strong emotional moments, and a rugged sports backdrop, this might be worth checking out.
June 1, 2025
Rounded up from 3.75 stars
ARC received via NetGalley—opinions are my own.
I requested this ARC because the tropes sounded right up my alley: sports romance, best friend’s brother, and an age gap where he’s younger? Instantly intrigued. Add in the small-town setting and the fact that her dad is also the coach of the amateur rugby team he plays for, and you’ve got a setup with plenty of tension. You can feel the sparks from the moment Jenna and Geordie reconnect. The fact that they’ve known each other their whole lives adds an extra layer of intimacy; the childhood-friends-to-lovers angle here feels genuinely sweet.
That said, I struggled with the pacing. It felt oddly slow, even when things were happening. The internal monologues (especially from both MCs) dragged in parts and started to feel repetitive. There was a lot of back-and-forth about how they felt about each other, and a fair bit of self-deprecation, which is understandable given their insecurities, but I found myself wishing the plot would move forward more. The emotional groundwork was laid early, so some of the continued introspection started to feel like filler. At times, I even got a bit confused about the timeline.
Still, I understand where both characters are coming from, and their individual insecurities made sense. I just think a tighter structure and slightly faster pacing would’ve made the story hit harder. There were a lot of tender moments, and I found myself rooting for Geordie—the Scottish lad with a soft heart and blonde curls—who really just wants to show Jenna what love can look like.
ARC received via NetGalley—opinions are my own.
I requested this ARC because the tropes sounded right up my alley: sports romance, best friend’s brother, and an age gap where he’s younger? Instantly intrigued. Add in the small-town setting and the fact that her dad is also the coach of the amateur rugby team he plays for, and you’ve got a setup with plenty of tension. You can feel the sparks from the moment Jenna and Geordie reconnect. The fact that they’ve known each other their whole lives adds an extra layer of intimacy; the childhood-friends-to-lovers angle here feels genuinely sweet.
That said, I struggled with the pacing. It felt oddly slow, even when things were happening. The internal monologues (especially from both MCs) dragged in parts and started to feel repetitive. There was a lot of back-and-forth about how they felt about each other, and a fair bit of self-deprecation, which is understandable given their insecurities, but I found myself wishing the plot would move forward more. The emotional groundwork was laid early, so some of the continued introspection started to feel like filler. At times, I even got a bit confused about the timeline.
Still, I understand where both characters are coming from, and their individual insecurities made sense. I just think a tighter structure and slightly faster pacing would’ve made the story hit harder. There were a lot of tender moments, and I found myself rooting for Geordie—the Scottish lad with a soft heart and blonde curls—who really just wants to show Jenna what love can look like.
May 11, 2025
4.5/5
When I got approved for this ARC I couldn’t have been more excited - sports romance, best-friends brother, reverse age gap? Abso-freaking-lutely! The fact that it was a rugby romance and I am a huge rugby fan was just the icing on the cake.
This book was about an amateur rugby player, Geordie, who had recently returned to his Scottish hometown after spending years working all around the world. He then reconnects with his older sisters best friend, Jenna. Jenna is the daughter of his rugby coach and is totally off limits. Almost instantly sparks begin to fly between the two. However trying to keep things quiet in a small town presents it’s own challenges.
The spice was amazing and every time Geordie called her ‘sweetheart’ I nearly swooned. They had such a cute relationship that was so cute. The way that from the beginning Geordie was so determined to take care of Jenna even when trying to deny his attraction.
Lets be real, there are so many sports romances around at the moment so what makes this one stand out? I loved the amateur element - so many sports romances are either about professional athletes or aspiring professionals. It was so nice to read about someone who was so passionate about the sport, just for a love of the sport!
When this book comes out on June 3rd I would recommend it for anyone who loves a sports romance x small town x forbidden romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Caroline Corvin for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When I got approved for this ARC I couldn’t have been more excited - sports romance, best-friends brother, reverse age gap? Abso-freaking-lutely! The fact that it was a rugby romance and I am a huge rugby fan was just the icing on the cake.
This book was about an amateur rugby player, Geordie, who had recently returned to his Scottish hometown after spending years working all around the world. He then reconnects with his older sisters best friend, Jenna. Jenna is the daughter of his rugby coach and is totally off limits. Almost instantly sparks begin to fly between the two. However trying to keep things quiet in a small town presents it’s own challenges.
The spice was amazing and every time Geordie called her ‘sweetheart’ I nearly swooned. They had such a cute relationship that was so cute. The way that from the beginning Geordie was so determined to take care of Jenna even when trying to deny his attraction.
Lets be real, there are so many sports romances around at the moment so what makes this one stand out? I loved the amateur element - so many sports romances are either about professional athletes or aspiring professionals. It was so nice to read about someone who was so passionate about the sport, just for a love of the sport!
When this book comes out on June 3rd I would recommend it for anyone who loves a sports romance x small town x forbidden romance.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Caroline Corvin for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2025
I love a sports romance, and I liked that this was a rugby romance, which I have never read before. It’s a sport I only watch during the Olympics.
I found it refreshing that this featured an amateur team, and that Geordie has found success through working on oil rigs, and is not a multimillionaire athlete. In fact, Jenna has had more career success than he has, which is an interesting dynamic.
They have both returned to their hometown in Scotland, and they immediately feel a spark, but she is his coaches daughter, and sister’s friend. When their chemistry can no longer be ignored, they decide to be secret friends with benefits.
I enjoyed the interactions between all the characters and pets. It really gave off that small town vibe. I liked the golden retriever/ black cat dynamics.
I enjoyed learning a bit more about rugby and appreciated the realistic portrayal of a couple falling for each other, while navigating their own insecurities.
Caroline’s acknowledgment that Jenna’s dad, the coach, was inspired by her own dad was very heart warming.
Thank you to #netgalley, #carolinecorvin for the ARC in return for an honest review.
I found it refreshing that this featured an amateur team, and that Geordie has found success through working on oil rigs, and is not a multimillionaire athlete. In fact, Jenna has had more career success than he has, which is an interesting dynamic.
They have both returned to their hometown in Scotland, and they immediately feel a spark, but she is his coaches daughter, and sister’s friend. When their chemistry can no longer be ignored, they decide to be secret friends with benefits.
I enjoyed the interactions between all the characters and pets. It really gave off that small town vibe. I liked the golden retriever/ black cat dynamics.
I enjoyed learning a bit more about rugby and appreciated the realistic portrayal of a couple falling for each other, while navigating their own insecurities.
Caroline’s acknowledgment that Jenna’s dad, the coach, was inspired by her own dad was very heart warming.
Thank you to #netgalley, #carolinecorvin for the ARC in return for an honest review.
May 7, 2025
Books have always been my “happy place.” The genre that I can never get enough of is romance. Although my preferred genre is romantic suspense books, romances centered around the sports world are growing on me as well. Because of this, I was extremely excited to read this book.
As this is an author that I have not read before, there was a slight worry that I would struggle with getting into the story. While it did take me a bit to get into it, I eventually did get hooked. One thing I will say is that I went through large portions of the group not liking the female main character AT ALL! Although I understood her reasoning on some things, one of her biggest concerns in the book turned out to be a huge “nothing burger.”
I was geared up to give this book a solid “4” rating, but I am a sucker for a good satisfying epilogue. This definitely delivers. All in all, I really enjoyed this book, and I am glad to see that it is going to be a series.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
As this is an author that I have not read before, there was a slight worry that I would struggle with getting into the story. While it did take me a bit to get into it, I eventually did get hooked. One thing I will say is that I went through large portions of the group not liking the female main character AT ALL! Although I understood her reasoning on some things, one of her biggest concerns in the book turned out to be a huge “nothing burger.”
I was geared up to give this book a solid “4” rating, but I am a sucker for a good satisfying epilogue. This definitely delivers. All in all, I really enjoyed this book, and I am glad to see that it is going to be a series.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
June 23, 2025
A lovely small-town Scottish romance with more depth than I expected! Jenna and Geordie’s slow-burn connection was full of warmth, tension, and genuinely heartfelt moments. I loved how the rugby element grounded the story— just real people navigating life, grief, and new beginnings.
The forbidden element (coach’s daughter + best friend’s younger brother) added just the right touch of angst. While Jenna’s reluctance lingered slightly too long at times, it made sense given her grief and trust issues. And Andy the dog stole every scene, of course!
A charming debut—perfect if you enjoy slow-burn chemistry, authentic settings, and plenty of heart.
Thank you NetGalley and Hayling Bookstorm Ltd for the ARC!
The forbidden element (coach’s daughter + best friend’s younger brother) added just the right touch of angst. While Jenna’s reluctance lingered slightly too long at times, it made sense given her grief and trust issues. And Andy the dog stole every scene, of course!
A charming debut—perfect if you enjoy slow-burn chemistry, authentic settings, and plenty of heart.
Thank you NetGalley and Hayling Bookstorm Ltd for the ARC!
May 7, 2025
Blindsided By You by Caroline Corvin is the first book in the Heartlands Rugby Series. Jenna is back living at home with her dad, starting her own PR business while grieving the death of her mother. Geordie has moved back to his childhood town of Cluanie after working abroad on oil rigs for the past 8 years. This book is full of fun tropes - friends-to-lovers, reverse age gap, forbidden romance, secret romance, and small town love. This was my first rugby romance book and I did struggle through a lot of the technical aspects of the sport, as I am not well versed. I did enjoy the romance aspect of the book and how the author developed the relationship and I loved the chemistry between the characters. Overall, I enjoyed the book and found it had humor mixed with tender moments.
Thank you to NetGalley, Grenwyvern Publishing, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, Grenwyvern Publishing, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2025
This was a fun sports romance featuring rugby- the first I’ve read. I loved Jenna and Geordie- they had the most amazing chemistry and a forbidden romance always makes it a more fun. Both returned back to their small town Claunie, which is at the edge of highlands in Scotland. Geordie to play and Jenna to launch her own PR business. I enjoyed their banter, the Scottish setting and the side characters, especially Skylar and Andy the grumpy dog. A good mix of romance and some more serious topics. I enjoyed the extra touches such as the cute dedication, playlist and Rugby positions and numbers and team players. Perfect for those who enjoy sport romance, small town, forbidden romance, reverse age gap and a little bit of miscommunication.
June 2, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Grenwyvern Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I really loved the premise behind the novel. At first the narrative moved at a great pace and we were able to see the two main characters reconnecting, but the farther I got into it I felt that some of the scenes were rushed and we didn't get to see as much interaction between the main characters. Toward the end though, the pace of the novel evened out and the book ended sweetly, even if there were some bumps along the way.
I really loved the premise behind the novel. At first the narrative moved at a great pace and we were able to see the two main characters reconnecting, but the farther I got into it I felt that some of the scenes were rushed and we didn't get to see as much interaction between the main characters. Toward the end though, the pace of the novel evened out and the book ended sweetly, even if there were some bumps along the way.
June 14, 2025
A talented rugby player. The coach’s daughter, and the team’s head of PR.
She’s been hurt before and carries emotional scars. He’s always there, ready to show her what real love looks like.
It’s a slow burn romance with an age gap and a touch of forbidden love, all set in a charming small town.
I loved that the book starts with an explanation of the rugby rules — even if I forgot them halfway through 😂 — and the fact that the story takes place in Scotland made it even better.
I just wish a bit more had happened in the beginning, as the pacing is slow at first, but it picks up nicely later on.
4⭐️
She’s been hurt before and carries emotional scars. He’s always there, ready to show her what real love looks like.
It’s a slow burn romance with an age gap and a touch of forbidden love, all set in a charming small town.
I loved that the book starts with an explanation of the rugby rules — even if I forgot them halfway through 😂 — and the fact that the story takes place in Scotland made it even better.
I just wish a bit more had happened in the beginning, as the pacing is slow at first, but it picks up nicely later on.
4⭐️
June 1, 2025
Arc review-overall a cute read. I did have some difficulty at times especially with Jenna I just couldn’t come to terms with her “issues” and it left me not caring too much for her. Geordie on the other hand was a super solid mmc and put up with more than I would have. I also had an unexpected cry moment which was nice but overall I wasn’t able to super invest in the characters.
June 3, 2025
Rugby has become my new favorite sport. This was such a good book. I loved the tropes in this book. Coaches daughter, best friend’s younger brother.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 20, 2025
I wanted to love this book. I’m casually interested in rugby simply because of the big burly men and I love reading about them.
However this just kind of felt flat to me. It took a while for me to get into, the first several chapters felt rather repetitive as the two main characters were introduced. Then initial spark of interest between them was there but I didn’t really feel their growing connection.
There were very few strong rugby scenes, most of them revolving around practice or after matches.
The shock at the end was very jarring and heavy for a romance novel and felt more for shock value than anything. I think it was meant to really solidify the MCs getting back together but they were already strongly heading in that direction without that. Then the aftermath was just kind of glossed over. I was ready to give this three stars up until that point.
I think with some further professional editing, especially in the first 25-30%, this book could be solid.
However this just kind of felt flat to me. It took a while for me to get into, the first several chapters felt rather repetitive as the two main characters were introduced. Then initial spark of interest between them was there but I didn’t really feel their growing connection.
There were very few strong rugby scenes, most of them revolving around practice or after matches.
The shock at the end was very jarring and heavy for a romance novel and felt more for shock value than anything. I think it was meant to really solidify the MCs getting back together but they were already strongly heading in that direction without that. Then the aftermath was just kind of glossed over. I was ready to give this three stars up until that point.
I think with some further professional editing, especially in the first 25-30%, this book could be solid.
June 8, 2025
While I was initially excited by the basis of Blindsided By You, I was left a little disappointed and underwhelmed by the story as a whole. Spoilers ahead!
BBY is a best friend’s brother, rugby romance. It follows Geordie, who’s back home and finding some escape at his local rugby club and Jenna, the daughter of his coach. Jenna is on a mission to set up her own sports PR company, and is off-limits to any of the boys on the team. Their history brings them together, and their story starts after their reunion following many years away from home.
The story is a dual POV telling, so it was interesting to see the story unfold through each of their eyes. Though in the beginning I was extremely put off by the constant sexualisation of Jenna in Geordie’s POV chapters. This eventually turned into a genuine adoration and desire to be together, so in a way it showed aspects of Geordie’s character evolution.
Blindsided By You is a classic (and infuriating, but potentially in a good way depending on your taste) example of the miscommunication trope. The story is propelled by the fact that these characters just refuse to tell each other how they feel.
There were several side plots going on which added to the story, though in the end you did not really get to see these come into fruition. For instance, there was great emphasis put onto Jenna’s PR company and her taking an intern in under her wing, but as Geordie and her’s relationship dramas progressed, we never really saw what came of this endeavour.
Unfortunately, there were some moments that seemed to be set up for crucial moments later on, such as Jenna’s dad being overbearingly strict, Rachel (the sister and best friend) not approving of their relationship, and Kyle the fling from the past - though they all seemed to be resolved quickly and underwhelmingly. The Dad barely put up a fight and the argument with Rachel lasted all of a chapter. The only exception was Kyle who did contribute to a major fight between Jenna and Geordie, but it felt lacklustre.
Regardless, I did enjoy the depiction of some of the more intimate scenes and how the romance and yearning was portrayed.
While the story was not for me, I do believe that the premise is good and that the writing style could be well suited to other readers. I also liked the intimacy of the story being set in a small town, Geordie’s determination and how Jenna evolved to finally let herself love and be loved again.
BBY is a best friend’s brother, rugby romance. It follows Geordie, who’s back home and finding some escape at his local rugby club and Jenna, the daughter of his coach. Jenna is on a mission to set up her own sports PR company, and is off-limits to any of the boys on the team. Their history brings them together, and their story starts after their reunion following many years away from home.
The story is a dual POV telling, so it was interesting to see the story unfold through each of their eyes. Though in the beginning I was extremely put off by the constant sexualisation of Jenna in Geordie’s POV chapters. This eventually turned into a genuine adoration and desire to be together, so in a way it showed aspects of Geordie’s character evolution.
Blindsided By You is a classic (and infuriating, but potentially in a good way depending on your taste) example of the miscommunication trope. The story is propelled by the fact that these characters just refuse to tell each other how they feel.
There were several side plots going on which added to the story, though in the end you did not really get to see these come into fruition. For instance, there was great emphasis put onto Jenna’s PR company and her taking an intern in under her wing, but as Geordie and her’s relationship dramas progressed, we never really saw what came of this endeavour.
Unfortunately, there were some moments that seemed to be set up for crucial moments later on, such as Jenna’s dad being overbearingly strict, Rachel (the sister and best friend) not approving of their relationship, and Kyle the fling from the past - though they all seemed to be resolved quickly and underwhelmingly. The Dad barely put up a fight and the argument with Rachel lasted all of a chapter. The only exception was Kyle who did contribute to a major fight between Jenna and Geordie, but it felt lacklustre.
Regardless, I did enjoy the depiction of some of the more intimate scenes and how the romance and yearning was portrayed.
While the story was not for me, I do believe that the premise is good and that the writing style could be well suited to other readers. I also liked the intimacy of the story being set in a small town, Geordie’s determination and how Jenna evolved to finally let herself love and be loved again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
This was SUCH a hard book to rate for me. While there were so many good parts including the descriptions, some beautiful quotes, and the worldbuilding and presence of side characters that were fully explained, it was a three or maybe three and a half star (at a push) read for me. To start with the good: I adored the presentation of dyslexia and chronic illness in this book that flowed with the narrative and did not feel forced. Additionally, the accessibility of this book was appreciated (as someone not versed at all in rugby) with the glossary and explanation before the book began being a good stepping stone introduction. I LOVED the side characters (specifically Skylar and Nathan) who seemed, at times, more likeable than the main characters.However, there were parts of the book that felt a little lengthy/finding-your-feet that could have been significantly cut down (see multi-page description of taking a slipper from a dog…). Also, more of a personal preference I admit, the miscommunication trope though interspersed with half-hearted communication where it seems all may be resolved, but is indeed not, got a bit old. And the BIGGEST issue for me…the entire crux of the book being centered on a 34 year old woman not being allowed, or rather fearing the repercussions of, her father finding out she is dating a member of his team (it seems almost more of a problem that may have been better suited to younger, possibly teenage characters - although I did enjoy not reading a romance with 20 year old characters for a change!). Moreover, the end was…a little disjointed for me namely the tragedy that strikes though affects the main characters a lot less reducing the lasting impact (I fear it could have shaved a lot of time from the end if it was removed, unless of course this is alluded to in future books!). Overall, I did seem to enjoy the book after I moved past the initial chapters that were slow and cliche (strong woman drives flashy sports car who is a, direct quote, ‘small woman leading a trail of large, brawny men’. Though, overlooking cliches, slow pacing, and turning a blind eye to the frail plot of scary brooding father controls grown woman’s love life, this book does have potential in the writing style and hidden gems of truly meaningful quotes and, if not for the miscommunication, I feel I could have truly grown to love the characters and will use this to satiate my partially disappointed mind.
May 25, 2025
This was my first time reading a Rugby Romance and I enjoyed it so much! I love how Caroline had a reference guide to go by that explains the game. It was such a fun read. I enjoyed the chemistry between Jenna & Geordie! This book has everything from heartfelt moments, secret hookups, undeniable love, awesome banter and the perfect amount of spice. There were several moments that made me laugh out loud! I would highly recommend this book! Perfect summer sports romance! I cannot wait to read more from Caroline Corvin!
Tropes:
🏉Sports Romance
💙Rugby Player
🏉Off Limits
💙Secret Relationship
🏉Reverse Age Gap
💙Best Friend's Brother
🏉Black Cat/Golden Retriever
💙Small Town
She makes the rules. He wants to break them all.
JENNA
I have rules. Don’t mix business with pleasure. Don’t fall for nice guys who’ll break my heart. And absolutely don’t get involved with my father’s rugby players—especially not my best friend’s younger brother.
But Geordie MacDonald isn’t the sunny little boy who once trailed after me through Cluanie anymore. The man who’s returned from the oil rigs is all quiet confidence and capable hands, with a golden heart that makes my carefully constructed walls crumble.
Our attraction was supposed to burn out quickly. A secret fling to get each other out of our systems. Yet as autumn deepens in the Highlands, so does our connection—one that could cost him his place on the team, and me my hard-won independence.
GEORDIE
Eight years away taught me how to survive harsh conditions, but nothing prepared me for the storm that is Jenna Sharpe. My sister’s best friend. My coach’s daughter. The woman I’ve wanted since the first time I laid eyes on her.
She says we’re just having fun—that’s what she insisted that first night. But there’s nothing casual about how I feel when she’s in my arms. Now I’m playing the best rugby of my life by day and sneaking through town to be with her by night.
In a place where whispers travel faster than rugby scores, keeping us hidden might be impossible. But revealing what we are could destroy everything we’ve worked for—and everything we’re beginning to feel.
Some games aren’t played on the field. And some hearts don’t follow the rulebook
Tropes:
🏉Sports Romance
💙Rugby Player
🏉Off Limits
💙Secret Relationship
🏉Reverse Age Gap
💙Best Friend's Brother
🏉Black Cat/Golden Retriever
💙Small Town
She makes the rules. He wants to break them all.
JENNA
I have rules. Don’t mix business with pleasure. Don’t fall for nice guys who’ll break my heart. And absolutely don’t get involved with my father’s rugby players—especially not my best friend’s younger brother.
But Geordie MacDonald isn’t the sunny little boy who once trailed after me through Cluanie anymore. The man who’s returned from the oil rigs is all quiet confidence and capable hands, with a golden heart that makes my carefully constructed walls crumble.
Our attraction was supposed to burn out quickly. A secret fling to get each other out of our systems. Yet as autumn deepens in the Highlands, so does our connection—one that could cost him his place on the team, and me my hard-won independence.
GEORDIE
Eight years away taught me how to survive harsh conditions, but nothing prepared me for the storm that is Jenna Sharpe. My sister’s best friend. My coach’s daughter. The woman I’ve wanted since the first time I laid eyes on her.
She says we’re just having fun—that’s what she insisted that first night. But there’s nothing casual about how I feel when she’s in my arms. Now I’m playing the best rugby of my life by day and sneaking through town to be with her by night.
In a place where whispers travel faster than rugby scores, keeping us hidden might be impossible. But revealing what we are could destroy everything we’ve worked for—and everything we’re beginning to feel.
Some games aren’t played on the field. And some hearts don’t follow the rulebook
June 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Caroline Corvin delivered a fun, sport romance, age gap, slow burn with Blindsided By You. As our MCs gravitate towards each other, the chemistry is obvious from the first meeting. As they skirt around their feelings, determining how to make their mutual attraction work for them, their story was enjoyable to read and their romance was so sweet to watch unfold. While there are some drawn out inner monologues throughout the story, Caroline wrote a story that was easy to read and thoroughly enjoyable.
Jenna has returned home after the passing of her mother and moved back in with her father. With her experience as a PR specialist, she hopes to use her expertise to help grow her father’s rugby team presence. Her best friend Jen is so happy for her to be home, but when she reconnects with Jen’s younger brother, she doesn’t remember him being so tall, athletic, and handsome. I may have missed something in regards to the relationship with her father, but it seemed that her age, the fear she had over her father’s opinion felt off. I understood the age gap can cause pause, but Jenna genuinely seemed afraid of upsetting her father.
Geordie is an amateur rugby player who is immediately drawn to Jenna. While she is hesitant to give into her feelings, Geordie is not about to let her go, as he can see something special in her that is worth fighting for. He is beyond patient with her, letting her figure things out for herself, and being supportive when she needs it. He was easy to root for and I truly wanted him to find his happiness.
Over all this story has layers, complexities, and depth that made the romance between Jenna and Geordie relatable and easy to connect to. The story is so heartwarming, even beyond the romance, the complexity of the father and daughter relationship and having Jenna navigate through that. I did enjoy the story as a whole and do recommend it to anyone who enjoys reverse age-gap, forbidden romance.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🏉Forbidden Romance
🔀Reverse Age Gap
🏉Best Friend’s Brother
🔀Coach’s Daughter
🏉Small Town Romance
🔀Secret Relationship
🏉Black Cat FMC
🔀Golden Retriever MMC
Caroline Corvin delivered a fun, sport romance, age gap, slow burn with Blindsided By You. As our MCs gravitate towards each other, the chemistry is obvious from the first meeting. As they skirt around their feelings, determining how to make their mutual attraction work for them, their story was enjoyable to read and their romance was so sweet to watch unfold. While there are some drawn out inner monologues throughout the story, Caroline wrote a story that was easy to read and thoroughly enjoyable.
Jenna has returned home after the passing of her mother and moved back in with her father. With her experience as a PR specialist, she hopes to use her expertise to help grow her father’s rugby team presence. Her best friend Jen is so happy for her to be home, but when she reconnects with Jen’s younger brother, she doesn’t remember him being so tall, athletic, and handsome. I may have missed something in regards to the relationship with her father, but it seemed that her age, the fear she had over her father’s opinion felt off. I understood the age gap can cause pause, but Jenna genuinely seemed afraid of upsetting her father.
Geordie is an amateur rugby player who is immediately drawn to Jenna. While she is hesitant to give into her feelings, Geordie is not about to let her go, as he can see something special in her that is worth fighting for. He is beyond patient with her, letting her figure things out for herself, and being supportive when she needs it. He was easy to root for and I truly wanted him to find his happiness.
Over all this story has layers, complexities, and depth that made the romance between Jenna and Geordie relatable and easy to connect to. The story is so heartwarming, even beyond the romance, the complexity of the father and daughter relationship and having Jenna navigate through that. I did enjoy the story as a whole and do recommend it to anyone who enjoys reverse age-gap, forbidden romance.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🏉Forbidden Romance
🔀Reverse Age Gap
🏉Best Friend’s Brother
🔀Coach’s Daughter
🏉Small Town Romance
🔀Secret Relationship
🏉Black Cat FMC
🔀Golden Retriever MMC
May 29, 2025
Rating: 4⭐️/5
Blindsided by You is the first book in the Heartlands Rugby Series. Only child Jenna Sharpe, a 34-year-old PR specialist, is back home with her dad, building her own business while grieving her mother’s death. With her father, Coach Robbie “Razor” Sharpe, leading the team, Jenna keeps things strictly professional—never mixing business with pleasure, especially when it comes to his players. But then there’s Geordie MacDonald—her best friend’s younger brother, an amateur rugby player from her dad’s team, recently returned after working offshore—and Jenna has been the only woman he’s wanted since the first time he saw her. Sparks fly quickly, but keeping their relationship quiet in a tight-knit town is easier said than done.
The story has plenty of charm, featuring fun tropes like best-friend’s brother, reverse age gap, and secret romance set in a cozy small town. Jenna starts off confident, but her insistence on keeping their relationship secret from her dad, Coach Razor, felt old-fashioned and made her seem immature for her age. She kept Geordie at a distance, giving him hope without fully committing, which made her hard to root for—while Geordie came across as loyal and steady, fully invested from the start. The pacing felt uneven at times, with sudden time jumps and some repetitive scenes, but Geordie’s likability and Jenna’s stubborn dog Andy were definite highlights. The book thoughtfully explores themes of grief and how past relationships shape us, though I found the rugby details a bit hard to follow. The eARC is adorable too, with charming intro and chapter graphics—ooh those cute jerseys! Despite its flaws, this book still feels like a familiar, comforting story you’d enjoy!
A big thanks to Hayling Bookstorm and Caroline Corvin for providing me with a digital ARC of this book!
Releasing 06/03/25 on Amazon, KU, and paperback.
E-book pre-orders are available NOW.
—
#AdvancedReaderCopy
Blindsided by You is the first book in the Heartlands Rugby Series. Only child Jenna Sharpe, a 34-year-old PR specialist, is back home with her dad, building her own business while grieving her mother’s death. With her father, Coach Robbie “Razor” Sharpe, leading the team, Jenna keeps things strictly professional—never mixing business with pleasure, especially when it comes to his players. But then there’s Geordie MacDonald—her best friend’s younger brother, an amateur rugby player from her dad’s team, recently returned after working offshore—and Jenna has been the only woman he’s wanted since the first time he saw her. Sparks fly quickly, but keeping their relationship quiet in a tight-knit town is easier said than done.
The story has plenty of charm, featuring fun tropes like best-friend’s brother, reverse age gap, and secret romance set in a cozy small town. Jenna starts off confident, but her insistence on keeping their relationship secret from her dad, Coach Razor, felt old-fashioned and made her seem immature for her age. She kept Geordie at a distance, giving him hope without fully committing, which made her hard to root for—while Geordie came across as loyal and steady, fully invested from the start. The pacing felt uneven at times, with sudden time jumps and some repetitive scenes, but Geordie’s likability and Jenna’s stubborn dog Andy were definite highlights. The book thoughtfully explores themes of grief and how past relationships shape us, though I found the rugby details a bit hard to follow. The eARC is adorable too, with charming intro and chapter graphics—ooh those cute jerseys! Despite its flaws, this book still feels like a familiar, comforting story you’d enjoy!
A big thanks to Hayling Bookstorm and Caroline Corvin for providing me with a digital ARC of this book!
Releasing 06/03/25 on Amazon, KU, and paperback.
E-book pre-orders are available NOW.
—
#AdvancedReaderCopy
May 23, 2025
In the vast and often predictable landscape of romance books, finding a story that truly resonates can feel like a victory in itself. This story achieved just that, leaving a lasting impression with its compelling characters and refreshingly grounded narrative.
While sports romance is one of my favorite tropes, this book ventured into uncharted territory for this me: the world of Rugby. What truly set this story apart was its focus on an amateur team. In a genre often dominated by stories of professional athletes basking in the spotlight, the portrayal of a team striving for success without the glitz and glamour felt strikingly authentic. This realism extended to the MMC, Geordie. Unlike the often-idealized alpha males typically found in sports romance, Geordie was simply a "good" athlete and person – a relatable character with flaws and vulnerabilities. This approach made him far more appealing than a flawless, superstar athlete. The female lead, Jenna, was equally compelling. She embodied the strength and independence sought in modern FMC, yet she also delt with insecurities and imperfections, making her deeply relatable. The author created characters who were both admirable and human. Ultimately, what elevated this book beyond the typical romance was its exploration of deeper themes. The narrative delicately touched upon grief and trauma, adding layers of emotional complexity to the characters' journeys. This willingness to delve into these subjects transformed the story into something far more profound and memorable for me. The different array of characters (don’t forget Andy, the dog) and their interconnected lives have left me yearning for more. A series centered around these characters and their experiences would be a welcome addition to the sports romance genre.
While sports romance is one of my favorite tropes, this book ventured into uncharted territory for this me: the world of Rugby. What truly set this story apart was its focus on an amateur team. In a genre often dominated by stories of professional athletes basking in the spotlight, the portrayal of a team striving for success without the glitz and glamour felt strikingly authentic. This realism extended to the MMC, Geordie. Unlike the often-idealized alpha males typically found in sports romance, Geordie was simply a "good" athlete and person – a relatable character with flaws and vulnerabilities. This approach made him far more appealing than a flawless, superstar athlete. The female lead, Jenna, was equally compelling. She embodied the strength and independence sought in modern FMC, yet she also delt with insecurities and imperfections, making her deeply relatable. The author created characters who were both admirable and human. Ultimately, what elevated this book beyond the typical romance was its exploration of deeper themes. The narrative delicately touched upon grief and trauma, adding layers of emotional complexity to the characters' journeys. This willingness to delve into these subjects transformed the story into something far more profound and memorable for me. The different array of characters (don’t forget Andy, the dog) and their interconnected lives have left me yearning for more. A series centered around these characters and their experiences would be a welcome addition to the sports romance genre.
May 31, 2025
ARC review:
I love a good sports romance every now and then and this was a fun one! The story takes place in the Scottish Highlands, where childhood friends Jenna and Geordie reconnect through rugby. She does sports PR for a living and is the local team’s captain’s daughter. Geordie rejoins the local rugby club after spending years abroad on a rig. The pair soon transition into a friends with benefits situation, but is that all their relationship can be?
As I said, this was a fun story. I liked the setting as I don’t often come across sports romances that aren’t American. I also liked that the rugby wasn’t professional, instead of the normal high pressure environment, the lads were playing for fun and stress relief, so there was more of a chance to explore their friendships and relationship with the sport. I liked that it was dual pov and the exploration of grief and loss was handled well. Some parts of the pacing was odd, especially the middle part of the tale, where the two main characters were deciding what they wanted from each other. However, I don’t typically pick up a romance book for a literary structure, so this didn’t bother me much. I thought the characters worked well together and their reasons for taking it slow made sense, but I wish these reasons culminated to more when they came to head. I don’t like the lack of communication trope, so this bothered me a tad, but that’s a very personal thing.
I don’t know anything about rugby but you don’t need to to understand this book. The author has put a key at the start to explain certain things and I found I understood everything I needed to!
I would definitely recommend this book as a fun sports romance to pick up when you want a sunshine mmc, dual POV, spice and the exploration of deeper emotions.
I love a good sports romance every now and then and this was a fun one! The story takes place in the Scottish Highlands, where childhood friends Jenna and Geordie reconnect through rugby. She does sports PR for a living and is the local team’s captain’s daughter. Geordie rejoins the local rugby club after spending years abroad on a rig. The pair soon transition into a friends with benefits situation, but is that all their relationship can be?
As I said, this was a fun story. I liked the setting as I don’t often come across sports romances that aren’t American. I also liked that the rugby wasn’t professional, instead of the normal high pressure environment, the lads were playing for fun and stress relief, so there was more of a chance to explore their friendships and relationship with the sport. I liked that it was dual pov and the exploration of grief and loss was handled well. Some parts of the pacing was odd, especially the middle part of the tale, where the two main characters were deciding what they wanted from each other. However, I don’t typically pick up a romance book for a literary structure, so this didn’t bother me much. I thought the characters worked well together and their reasons for taking it slow made sense, but I wish these reasons culminated to more when they came to head. I don’t like the lack of communication trope, so this bothered me a tad, but that’s a very personal thing.
I don’t know anything about rugby but you don’t need to to understand this book. The author has put a key at the start to explain certain things and I found I understood everything I needed to!
I would definitely recommend this book as a fun sports romance to pick up when you want a sunshine mmc, dual POV, spice and the exploration of deeper emotions.
June 2, 2025
I was beyond thrilled when I got approved for this ARC. A romance involving sports, a best friend’s younger brother, and a reverse age gap? Count me in! The fact that it revolves around rugby, a sport I absolutely love, made it even more exciting.
The story centers on Geordie, an amateur rugby player who returns to his small Scottish hometown after spending years working abroad. He ends up reconnecting with Jenna, his sister’s close friend. She also happens to be the daughter of his rugby coach, which makes things complicated. From the moment they meet again, there’s clear chemistry between them. Hiding their growing feelings in a town where everyone knows everything is not so simple.
The romantic tension and steamy scenes were so well done. Every time Geordie called Jenna “sweetheart,” I couldn’t help but swoon. Their relationship had such a sweet and sincere vibe. I especially loved how Geordie was always looking out for Jenna, even when he was trying to suppress his own feelings.
With so many sports romances around these days, what really made this one different was its focus on amateur-level passion. Most books in the genre highlight pro athletes, but this story was more grounded. It was about someone who played purely because he loved the game. That made it feel much more relatable and heartfelt.
I’d definitely recommend picking this up when it comes out on June 3rd. It’s perfect for fans of:
🏉 Sports romance
🏡 Small-town settings
💔 Off-limits relationships
A big thank-you to NetGalley and Caroline Corvin for sending me this early copy in exchange for an honest review!
The story centers on Geordie, an amateur rugby player who returns to his small Scottish hometown after spending years working abroad. He ends up reconnecting with Jenna, his sister’s close friend. She also happens to be the daughter of his rugby coach, which makes things complicated. From the moment they meet again, there’s clear chemistry between them. Hiding their growing feelings in a town where everyone knows everything is not so simple.
The romantic tension and steamy scenes were so well done. Every time Geordie called Jenna “sweetheart,” I couldn’t help but swoon. Their relationship had such a sweet and sincere vibe. I especially loved how Geordie was always looking out for Jenna, even when he was trying to suppress his own feelings.
With so many sports romances around these days, what really made this one different was its focus on amateur-level passion. Most books in the genre highlight pro athletes, but this story was more grounded. It was about someone who played purely because he loved the game. That made it feel much more relatable and heartfelt.
I’d definitely recommend picking this up when it comes out on June 3rd. It’s perfect for fans of:
🏉 Sports romance
🏡 Small-town settings
💔 Off-limits relationships
A big thank-you to NetGalley and Caroline Corvin for sending me this early copy in exchange for an honest review!
June 3, 2025
This book was such a fun ride! I'm not usually a huge fan of friends-to-lovers, but this felt like a unique twist on the trope. Jenna and Geordie weren’t exactly friends, they were friendly because Jenna was best friends with Rachel, Geordie’s older sister. That dynamic gave their story a layered starting point I really enjoyed.
Watching Geordie evolve in Jenna's mind from the “annoying little brother who’s always around” into a confident man who was ready to show up for Jenna (and help rebuild her confidence after her breakup) was incredibly satisfying. He was all in, and you could feel it.
Jenna, on the other hand, was a bit back-and-forth at first. I understood her hesitation. Starting over is hard, especially when it involves something that changes everything about who you think you are, but the hot-and-cold energy did leave me a little whiplashed early on.
The secret/forbidden element of their relationship (coach’s daughter + best friend’s little brother)? Absolutely my jam and it was handled with just the right amount of tension and heart.
One of my favorite parts, though, was the family dynamic on both sides. This wasn’t just background noise. It was front and center, showing how complicated, supportive, and messy family can be. I especially loved the found family vibe with the rugby team. It added so much warmth.
Also: a rugby glossary?! Bless. I’m still learning the sport, and it made a huge difference in helping me enjoy the gameplay elements without feeling lost.
Thank you @carolinecorvin and @haylingbookstormltd for this charming romcom full of heart, laughs, and one incredibly endearing athlete who never stood a chance.
Watching Geordie evolve in Jenna's mind from the “annoying little brother who’s always around” into a confident man who was ready to show up for Jenna (and help rebuild her confidence after her breakup) was incredibly satisfying. He was all in, and you could feel it.
Jenna, on the other hand, was a bit back-and-forth at first. I understood her hesitation. Starting over is hard, especially when it involves something that changes everything about who you think you are, but the hot-and-cold energy did leave me a little whiplashed early on.
The secret/forbidden element of their relationship (coach’s daughter + best friend’s little brother)? Absolutely my jam and it was handled with just the right amount of tension and heart.
One of my favorite parts, though, was the family dynamic on both sides. This wasn’t just background noise. It was front and center, showing how complicated, supportive, and messy family can be. I especially loved the found family vibe with the rugby team. It added so much warmth.
Also: a rugby glossary?! Bless. I’m still learning the sport, and it made a huge difference in helping me enjoy the gameplay elements without feeling lost.
Thank you @carolinecorvin and @haylingbookstormltd for this charming romcom full of heart, laughs, and one incredibly endearing athlete who never stood a chance.
June 4, 2025
#reverseagegap
#coach’s daughter
#sports romance
#bestfriendsyoungerbrother
#offlimitsrelationships
#secretfling
I believe this book has the makings of being a top seller, just needs some things tightened up. It was choppy in some parts of the book, Jenna’s character just didn’t care a lot for, why someone her age has to hide her relationship from her father is a mystery to me. However overall, I enjoyed reading the book, and hope that we can get the plot tightened up. Geordie has a learning disability, and I like how the author brought that into the book and worked on throughout the book.
The female Jenna has one major rule that she lives by, don’t get involved with Rugby players, especially not my best friend’s younger brother. And that brother is Geordie, he is a Blindside Flanker (that’s his position he plays), he’s lovable, has a heart and is very protective of people he cares about. And he has his sights on his sister’s best friend, and the daughter of the coach. She makes the rules, and he wants to break them and boy do they ever break all the rules. But will their hearts survive, and will her best friend forgive her for falling for her baby brother? The ending was perfect, I loved the friendships that were created.
I loved the playlist that was created for this book, do love that authors are putting in the books. One of my favorite quotes:
“8 years away taught me a lot, how to survive however they didn’t know Jenna-she’s a thunderstorm and we are playing in the rain – the lighting will strike.”
“Some games aren’t played on the field. And some hearts don’t follow the rulebook.”
#coach’s daughter
#sports romance
#bestfriendsyoungerbrother
#offlimitsrelationships
#secretfling
I believe this book has the makings of being a top seller, just needs some things tightened up. It was choppy in some parts of the book, Jenna’s character just didn’t care a lot for, why someone her age has to hide her relationship from her father is a mystery to me. However overall, I enjoyed reading the book, and hope that we can get the plot tightened up. Geordie has a learning disability, and I like how the author brought that into the book and worked on throughout the book.
The female Jenna has one major rule that she lives by, don’t get involved with Rugby players, especially not my best friend’s younger brother. And that brother is Geordie, he is a Blindside Flanker (that’s his position he plays), he’s lovable, has a heart and is very protective of people he cares about. And he has his sights on his sister’s best friend, and the daughter of the coach. She makes the rules, and he wants to break them and boy do they ever break all the rules. But will their hearts survive, and will her best friend forgive her for falling for her baby brother? The ending was perfect, I loved the friendships that were created.
I loved the playlist that was created for this book, do love that authors are putting in the books. One of my favorite quotes:
“8 years away taught me a lot, how to survive however they didn’t know Jenna-she’s a thunderstorm and we are playing in the rain – the lighting will strike.”
“Some games aren’t played on the field. And some hearts don’t follow the rulebook.”
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