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Stumped: An Age Gap Cricket Romance
One night was all it took for her to bowl him over.
Businesswoman Vera Thomas is tired of misogynists and relationships. Her family, friends and job are a priority, leaving everything else at the bottom of her list. Including finding her forever person.
Cricket star Elias Joseph is not having the best year. After an epic loss last season and missing out on the World Cup because of an injury, he’s losing hope of ever getting back on the pitch. And he definitely doesn’t have time to do anything fun either.
When an encounter at a bar ends with Vera and Elias in bed together, it’s not meant to be anything more than one night. Except, feelings start to develop, emotions are running high and ignoring what they want from each other becomes difficult.
Especially when they realise they make more sense together rather than apart.
But when external forces get in the way of their happily ever after, they have to make a choice between love and career.
This book is meant for readers 18+
Businesswoman Vera Thomas is tired of misogynists and relationships. Her family, friends and job are a priority, leaving everything else at the bottom of her list. Including finding her forever person.
Cricket star Elias Joseph is not having the best year. After an epic loss last season and missing out on the World Cup because of an injury, he’s losing hope of ever getting back on the pitch. And he definitely doesn’t have time to do anything fun either.
When an encounter at a bar ends with Vera and Elias in bed together, it’s not meant to be anything more than one night. Except, feelings start to develop, emotions are running high and ignoring what they want from each other becomes difficult.
Especially when they realise they make more sense together rather than apart.
But when external forces get in the way of their happily ever after, they have to make a choice between love and career.
This book is meant for readers 18+
388 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2025
9 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Anna P.
15 books129 followersSince she was a child, Anna has lived in a world of imagination—teaching in a classroom to being an astronaut, she’s done it all.
Anna has a Masters in Creative Writing, and a love for music and writing got her jobs with Rolling Stone India and Sony Music. After a couple of years of selling her soul to advertising, she’s finally following her dream of writing books.
Currently living in South India, she rocks out to Foo Fighters and reads 300 romance novels a year. She works as a copy consultant and book editor, while sipping on copious amounts of black tea.
Anna has a Masters in Creative Writing, and a love for music and writing got her jobs with Rolling Stone India and Sony Music. After a couple of years of selling her soul to advertising, she’s finally following her dream of writing books.
Currently living in South India, she rocks out to Foo Fighters and reads 300 romance novels a year. She works as a copy consultant and book editor, while sipping on copious amounts of black tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
June 2, 2025
I was slightly behind on my ARCs for May so I was glad that I got a chance to read this before the month ended. In fact, about 20% in I stopped reading the ARC copy and bought the kindle version because I was locked in. What a treat this was!
I *loved* Stumped! I don't know anything about the sport cricket and even though this book is very detailed in the scenes where the sport was taking place, I still don't know anything about cricket LOL. This is very much a me thing because I'm not sports-savvy, but Anna P. did a great job between the descriptions and the footnotes explaining what was going on. I've never read a contemporary romance with footnotes, but I loved it!
This book was so…balanced? Both Elias and Vera were extremely well-developed between their careers, friend groups, and relationships with their families. Vera is 40 so she is an established CEO who is no-nonsense, firm, assertive, and all the things female main characters—especially Black and brown ones—are rarely allowed to be without getting knocked down a peg for it. She's also the breadwinner and debatably the one who is ~in charge~ in this relationship but she's not at all overbearing or emasculating about it. Elias is 33 and a professional cricket player, but he is a cinnamon roll angel cutie patootie pookie butt who was a good sport about not being the hot shot in the relationship even though he's certainly the star, and he fell in love first which was delicious.
Stumped is rich in Indian culture and customs and put me onto knowledge that there are different traditions, popular foods, etc. depending on what state one lives in within India. Since we don't learn much about India in the States, I really enjoyed this aspect. Also Vera and other characters are queer and it felt very natural and not contrived, which I always appreciate in books by and about people of color.
The spice was perfect—not over the top, very passionate, and well-written. Overall I loved Anna P.'s writing style and I look forward to the next book in this series very, very, very much!
Thank you to swipethebook PR connect and Anna P. for sending me an ARC!
5 ⭐️s
3 🌶️
I *loved* Stumped! I don't know anything about the sport cricket and even though this book is very detailed in the scenes where the sport was taking place, I still don't know anything about cricket LOL. This is very much a me thing because I'm not sports-savvy, but Anna P. did a great job between the descriptions and the footnotes explaining what was going on. I've never read a contemporary romance with footnotes, but I loved it!
This book was so…balanced? Both Elias and Vera were extremely well-developed between their careers, friend groups, and relationships with their families. Vera is 40 so she is an established CEO who is no-nonsense, firm, assertive, and all the things female main characters—especially Black and brown ones—are rarely allowed to be without getting knocked down a peg for it. She's also the breadwinner and debatably the one who is ~in charge~ in this relationship but she's not at all overbearing or emasculating about it. Elias is 33 and a professional cricket player, but he is a cinnamon roll angel cutie patootie pookie butt who was a good sport about not being the hot shot in the relationship even though he's certainly the star, and he fell in love first which was delicious.
Stumped is rich in Indian culture and customs and put me onto knowledge that there are different traditions, popular foods, etc. depending on what state one lives in within India. Since we don't learn much about India in the States, I really enjoyed this aspect. Also Vera and other characters are queer and it felt very natural and not contrived, which I always appreciate in books by and about people of color.
The spice was perfect—not over the top, very passionate, and well-written. Overall I loved Anna P.'s writing style and I look forward to the next book in this series very, very, very much!
Thank you to swipethebook PR connect and Anna P. for sending me an ARC!
5 ⭐️s
3 🌶️
May 23, 2025
pre-read ✿༄࿔｡☆˚.
GOT THE ARC!!! Looking forward to Anna's first sports romance hehehe
ARC REVIEW
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: ♡♡♡
atp, I am obsessed with Anna's books. I'll read anything she writes. Seriously, guys, she is so underrated, and I can't believe people are sleeping on her books.
She slayed every single book, and this was no exception. Her first series was a total banger, and when I thought that was it, she stepped up her game with sports romance. And as always - story, characters, chemistry, spice - everything was just *mwuahh* Also, the representation of brown people, mental health, plus-size characters, social issues, etc., is on point.
Vera & Elias - I am so in love with them! They are the endgame. Incredible chemistry, banter, spice, lots of communication, understanding, and motivates each other. WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT!?? They both have amazing friends and a lovely, supportive family, too. *sigh*
In short, this is a great beginning to the series, and I can't wait for more. I am so thankful to Anna and swipethebook PR, for providing me with the e-ARC.
TROPES:
Sports romance
Age gap (7)
CEO x cricketer
Secret relationship
One-night stand
FWB
Fast burn
GOT THE ARC!!! Looking forward to Anna's first sports romance hehehe
ARC REVIEW
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: ♡♡♡
atp, I am obsessed with Anna's books. I'll read anything she writes. Seriously, guys, she is so underrated, and I can't believe people are sleeping on her books.
She slayed every single book, and this was no exception. Her first series was a total banger, and when I thought that was it, she stepped up her game with sports romance. And as always - story, characters, chemistry, spice - everything was just *mwuahh* Also, the representation of brown people, mental health, plus-size characters, social issues, etc., is on point.
Vera & Elias - I am so in love with them! They are the endgame. Incredible chemistry, banter, spice, lots of communication, understanding, and motivates each other. WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT!?? They both have amazing friends and a lovely, supportive family, too. *sigh*
In short, this is a great beginning to the series, and I can't wait for more. I am so thankful to Anna and swipethebook PR, for providing me with the e-ARC.
“Everyone fucks up. Everyone makes mistakes and doesn’t deliver. Being a failure means you don’t even try. And you tried. God, Elias. I watched you, you were playing so fucking hard. I saw the way your body was prepared for every shot, I saw how you swung and cursed yourself for every missed boundary and whenever you couldn’t take a run.” Her hands drop to my shoulders and she squeezes. “I love your broad shoulders, honey, but they’re not meant to carry an entire cricket team.”
TROPES:
Sports romance
Age gap (7)
CEO x cricketer
Secret relationship
One-night stand
FWB
Fast burn
May 30, 2025
Thank you Anna for an ARC of this book!
Let me first present to you Elias Joseph, down bad lover extraordinaire. Oh yeah, and superstar cricketer. 😉 To no one's surprise, I was enamored with him. Who *wouldn't* fall for a man who loves so fully his every waking thought revolves around her, whose whole being is tuned to her, and whose heart constantly seeks hers out? I WOULD BC I AM IN LOVE. Unfortunately I'm not the "her" but every second of watching Elias fall for Vera was a second of joy. All he ever wanted was to be with her without making any demands of her and you can't tell me that isn't the purest love. WE MUST PROTECT HIM ALWAYS.
And not to be outshined, our QUEEN Vera Thomas is everything I wish I was. She's sassy, strong, and, yeah, "too much" but why would she be fucking less for *anyone*? That just means there's more of her to love and if people can't get on board, good fucking riddance. We hope the door hits you on your way out. 👋 But seriously, I loved how she owned who she was and never took shit from anyone. She knew her worth and she was going to make sure everyone knew it too. Not to mention, she made sure that sense of worthiness extended to the people who worked for her and that's what we call a REAL LEADER *AND* TEAM PLAYER. Take notes villains of Vera's past; y'all know who you are.
We also have to talk about the magic that is these two. Bc they went from friends-with-benefits to domestic adorableness *snaps* like that. AND I LIVED FOR IT. I loved the way Elias reminded Vera in her moments of doubts that her "too much" was his "exactly enough." And for Vera's part, I loved that she reminded Elias in his low moments that his hiccups were not failures that made him unworthy. The way these two took care of each other? I WANT IT. Ugh, I love them so much.
CN: open-door romance, infidelity (not MCs), workplace misogyny, career sabotage, grief, feelings of worthlessness
Let me first present to you Elias Joseph, down bad lover extraordinaire. Oh yeah, and superstar cricketer. 😉 To no one's surprise, I was enamored with him. Who *wouldn't* fall for a man who loves so fully his every waking thought revolves around her, whose whole being is tuned to her, and whose heart constantly seeks hers out? I WOULD BC I AM IN LOVE. Unfortunately I'm not the "her" but every second of watching Elias fall for Vera was a second of joy. All he ever wanted was to be with her without making any demands of her and you can't tell me that isn't the purest love. WE MUST PROTECT HIM ALWAYS.
And not to be outshined, our QUEEN Vera Thomas is everything I wish I was. She's sassy, strong, and, yeah, "too much" but why would she be fucking less for *anyone*? That just means there's more of her to love and if people can't get on board, good fucking riddance. We hope the door hits you on your way out. 👋 But seriously, I loved how she owned who she was and never took shit from anyone. She knew her worth and she was going to make sure everyone knew it too. Not to mention, she made sure that sense of worthiness extended to the people who worked for her and that's what we call a REAL LEADER *AND* TEAM PLAYER. Take notes villains of Vera's past; y'all know who you are.
We also have to talk about the magic that is these two. Bc they went from friends-with-benefits to domestic adorableness *snaps* like that. AND I LIVED FOR IT. I loved the way Elias reminded Vera in her moments of doubts that her "too much" was his "exactly enough." And for Vera's part, I loved that she reminded Elias in his low moments that his hiccups were not failures that made him unworthy. The way these two took care of each other? I WANT IT. Ugh, I love them so much.
CN: open-door romance, infidelity (not MCs), workplace misogyny, career sabotage, grief, feelings of worthlessness
June 15, 2025
2.8
i signed up for the arc because of cricket romance which is so rare and because of this I kinda overlooked on 'friends to benefits' which was literally so wrong of me since I despise that trope.
the book is great if you like FWB but it was just not for me.
the sports part and the found family part was really nice but then being in fwb really turned into a corner.
for me, I felt like the connection was forced and they fell for each other just because they were sleeping together specially in case of Vera and I know she had trauma from her part relationships but again it just didn't feel right to me.
i signed up for the arc because of cricket romance which is so rare and because of this I kinda overlooked on 'friends to benefits' which was literally so wrong of me since I despise that trope.
the book is great if you like FWB but it was just not for me.
the sports part and the found family part was really nice but then being in fwb really turned into a corner.
for me, I felt like the connection was forced and they fell for each other just because they were sleeping together specially in case of Vera and I know she had trauma from her part relationships but again it just didn't feel right to me.
May 30, 2025
Stumped is Anna’s first book in her new series about sports and romance. This is the story of Vera Thomas, a very strong businesswoman, Elias Joseph, a star cricket player, and their one night stand that turns into so much more than they could have imagined!
I absolutely loved Vera and Elias’ story from start to finish. From their meeting at the bar with the sassy banter, to the no strings attached wild night in Vera’s bed, to realizing that they were developing feelings for each other and it just was better when they were together.
I can tell that Anna spent a lot of time on this gem and that a lot of Anna, her family, and her life are written on these pages. I really can see Anna is Vera. :0)
Little Touches That I Loved:
- The Dedication
- The Message to the ARC Readers & Author’s Note
- The Sex Index (1st book I have seen with one!)
- Family Trees and List of Important People & Their Relationship
- THE FOOTNOTES!!! Since this book takes place in India and around the sport of Cricket, Anna took the time to put footnotes to explain the languages she used, places they visited, and cricket terms.
- The fun banter between Vera and Elias
- How strong Vera is and that she knows what she wants and goes after it.
- The love that you can see that Elias has for Vera from the beginning.
- The love and support that their families and friends have for Vera & Elias.
This was my first sports related romance and I absolutely LOVED it!!! This one is definitely a must read and I am looking forward to the next books in the series.
Thank you Anna and Swipe The Book PR Connect for the ARC!!!
Final Rating - 5 Stars
Spice Rating - 4 Chili Peppers
I absolutely loved Vera and Elias’ story from start to finish. From their meeting at the bar with the sassy banter, to the no strings attached wild night in Vera’s bed, to realizing that they were developing feelings for each other and it just was better when they were together.
I can tell that Anna spent a lot of time on this gem and that a lot of Anna, her family, and her life are written on these pages. I really can see Anna is Vera. :0)
Little Touches That I Loved:
- The Dedication
- The Message to the ARC Readers & Author’s Note
- The Sex Index (1st book I have seen with one!)
- Family Trees and List of Important People & Their Relationship
- THE FOOTNOTES!!! Since this book takes place in India and around the sport of Cricket, Anna took the time to put footnotes to explain the languages she used, places they visited, and cricket terms.
- The fun banter between Vera and Elias
- How strong Vera is and that she knows what she wants and goes after it.
- The love that you can see that Elias has for Vera from the beginning.
- The love and support that their families and friends have for Vera & Elias.
This was my first sports related romance and I absolutely LOVED it!!! This one is definitely a must read and I am looking forward to the next books in the series.
Thank you Anna and Swipe The Book PR Connect for the ARC!!!
Final Rating - 5 Stars
Spice Rating - 4 Chili Peppers
May 30, 2025
What a ride man! I loved the Indian-pana of this book! This is a perfect read in this IPL season! What happened if we couldn't get CSK qualified, our fictional men can fulfil our wishes 🥹
I love Vera! She's the most practical, calculative and sensible female character I have read! She is for sure going to be an inspiration for many. Elias' actions are cute because of how he goes to any extent to convey his love to Vera. He's not the controlling jealous type, but the possessive jealous type (I hope you get the difference 😁)
Together Elias and Vera make a strong couple. The plot was also unique, because I have been seeing a lot many books having miscommunication trope. But this had nothing like that. Elias and Vera were there for each other in thick and thin, and that's what the base of any relationship should be (be it in books or in reality 🫶🏻). Moreover the dialogue delivery between both the characters was on point!
I'm very excited to read about the next couple, Anna has given us a short insight into their lives and I'm sure it's going to be fun 🤭
I love Vera! She's the most practical, calculative and sensible female character I have read! She is for sure going to be an inspiration for many. Elias' actions are cute because of how he goes to any extent to convey his love to Vera. He's not the controlling jealous type, but the possessive jealous type (I hope you get the difference 😁)
Together Elias and Vera make a strong couple. The plot was also unique, because I have been seeing a lot many books having miscommunication trope. But this had nothing like that. Elias and Vera were there for each other in thick and thin, and that's what the base of any relationship should be (be it in books or in reality 🫶🏻). Moreover the dialogue delivery between both the characters was on point!
I'm very excited to read about the next couple, Anna has given us a short insight into their lives and I'm sure it's going to be fun 🤭
May 18, 2025
Okay okay okay stop guys I'm here with an amazing review of this book.
STUMPED is a rich sports romance which hooked me from the very first page. Anna is immersive and vibrant and brings two incredibly compelling characters together in a way that feels authentic and deeply satisfying.
Vera thomas is a unapologetically bold and who's done wasting time on men's who can't handle either. With her heart guarded and her priorities set love which is the last thing on her to do list.
On the other side, Elias Joseph is a cricket star who's battling a losing streak on the field and off it. The only thing he expects instead of injury, frustration and the sync is a one night spark who challenged everything he thought he knew about healing, purpose and connection.
This book stands out for it's fresh take on the genre. The pacing is just right , the emotional stakes are high and the chemistry between the leads are off the charts.
If you are looking for a book which has emotional depth and who feels good then STUMPED is totally for you.
STUMPED is a rich sports romance which hooked me from the very first page. Anna is immersive and vibrant and brings two incredibly compelling characters together in a way that feels authentic and deeply satisfying.
Vera thomas is a unapologetically bold and who's done wasting time on men's who can't handle either. With her heart guarded and her priorities set love which is the last thing on her to do list.
On the other side, Elias Joseph is a cricket star who's battling a losing streak on the field and off it. The only thing he expects instead of injury, frustration and the sync is a one night spark who challenged everything he thought he knew about healing, purpose and connection.
This book stands out for it's fresh take on the genre. The pacing is just right , the emotional stakes are high and the chemistry between the leads are off the charts.
If you are looking for a book which has emotional depth and who feels good then STUMPED is totally for you.
May 30, 2025
oh my GOD this was so good!!!! I’m obsessed with Vera and Elias. The age gap didn’t feel icky since they’re older (and SHES OLDER YAY). I loved learning about cricket. I loved the depth of each character and learning more about them. Anna did a fantastic job at discussing women in male-dominated fields and the sexism that comes with that. We love women in charge!! I have so many highlights it’s crazy. I’m so excited for Patrick and Tamara’s book!!
June 7, 2025
Thank you to the author for selecting me to arc read this early, I’m a little late and behind on arcs but I finally did finish this book. Absolutely 1,000% loved it, the banter back and forth since the beginning was amazing, I don’t think I laughed so much in my life! Also never read or knew about cricket, so it was refreshing to read something new! A good start of the summer break read! 9/10!
June 10, 2025
This book had me fully crashing out to the point of concern by my husband and now I'm forcing this man to watch cricket with me!!!! Anna is incredible yet again, you will fall head over heels in love with Vera and my pathetic (complimentary) Elias!!! Get ready to enter your cricket era!!!
May 30, 2025
3.5⭐
First of all, I'm an RCB, so the ending was painful to read 😂
And also the MMC got bonus points for showing love to and losing against Mavericks
ok jokes apart, it was a fun read, especially during the ipl season
it honestly surprised me to see how the whole plot came together
First of all, I'm an RCB, so the ending was painful to read 😂
And also the MMC got bonus points for showing love to and losing against Mavericks
ok jokes apart, it was a fun read, especially during the ipl season
it honestly surprised me to see how the whole plot came together
May 30, 2025
4.5⭐️
Who knew being Stumped could feel a lot like falling in love? This book had me grinning like a fool. It snuck up on me like a smooth-talking book boyfriend with irresistible banter & the best kind of trouble. Saying this louder for the folks in the back: Anna didn’t just write this book, she cartwheeled into this series with fireworks, fierce energy, & a pen clearly powered by unicorn magic & cricket stardust.
The writing was heartwarming, real, romantic, & empowering. The pacing was just right as everything unfolded in the most natural, heart-fluttering, organic way. The tension simmered, chemistry deliciously built & by the time we reached that emotional crescendo, it was earned, real, satisfying.
Anna’s characters are always a slay. She never fails to deliver on this front. Her characters are more than names, they are well rounded, layered, fleshed out, relatable, & beautifully vulnerable. You don’t just read them, you feel them unless you are a stone cold-hearted reader. Just kidding! or maybe not?!
Vera? Confident. Fierce. Loyal. She’s got her priorities straight & a beautifully guarded softness under that armor. She’s unapologetic about her body, success, & ambition. She worked hard for everything she earned & she owns it. I adored how rooted in her own power she was. And let’s be real, watching her believe in Elias, fight for him, see him beyond his sport persona? That’s the kind of love that sticks. The way she refused to let cricket be the only thing that defined him? Whew. She loved him for all his layers & that made me admire her more.
Elias? Charming, quietly shouldering a lot behind the scenes, trying to hold it all together under the spotlight. Well famous, but so human. His insecurities, the inner critic he carries, the quiet vulnerability. Anna wrote him with such tenderness. He knew what he wanted & he showed up.
Watching their relationship evolve from a one-time thing to friends to true love? PERFECTION. The growth. The slow trust. The vulnerability. The teasing. The spicy bits. The safe space they created for one other. I was swooning & cheering left & right. You know. I know. The whole universe knows. They were just perfect for one another. And watching them fight through their fears and finally choose each other? You have earned yourself a free pass entry to their cheering squad.
I appreciated how their respective family and friend groups were portrayed in this one. Their support, love, & genuine warmth was the real treasure. Something I hope everyone in this life is blessed to have in their corner as this is the true backbone we all need in this life.
The footnotes that were spread throughout the book were amazing and well utilized. They added that extra layer of context that made me feel IN on everything, never lost.
Anna, you have hit a SIX with this one. Just book me a one-way ticket on this Chennai Express as I’m only moving forward on this ride.
Thank you Anna and Swipethebook PR for providing me with an e-ARC of this book!
Who knew being Stumped could feel a lot like falling in love? This book had me grinning like a fool. It snuck up on me like a smooth-talking book boyfriend with irresistible banter & the best kind of trouble. Saying this louder for the folks in the back: Anna didn’t just write this book, she cartwheeled into this series with fireworks, fierce energy, & a pen clearly powered by unicorn magic & cricket stardust.
The writing was heartwarming, real, romantic, & empowering. The pacing was just right as everything unfolded in the most natural, heart-fluttering, organic way. The tension simmered, chemistry deliciously built & by the time we reached that emotional crescendo, it was earned, real, satisfying.
Anna’s characters are always a slay. She never fails to deliver on this front. Her characters are more than names, they are well rounded, layered, fleshed out, relatable, & beautifully vulnerable. You don’t just read them, you feel them unless you are a stone cold-hearted reader. Just kidding! or maybe not?!
Vera? Confident. Fierce. Loyal. She’s got her priorities straight & a beautifully guarded softness under that armor. She’s unapologetic about her body, success, & ambition. She worked hard for everything she earned & she owns it. I adored how rooted in her own power she was. And let’s be real, watching her believe in Elias, fight for him, see him beyond his sport persona? That’s the kind of love that sticks. The way she refused to let cricket be the only thing that defined him? Whew. She loved him for all his layers & that made me admire her more.
Elias? Charming, quietly shouldering a lot behind the scenes, trying to hold it all together under the spotlight. Well famous, but so human. His insecurities, the inner critic he carries, the quiet vulnerability. Anna wrote him with such tenderness. He knew what he wanted & he showed up.
Watching their relationship evolve from a one-time thing to friends to true love? PERFECTION. The growth. The slow trust. The vulnerability. The teasing. The spicy bits. The safe space they created for one other. I was swooning & cheering left & right. You know. I know. The whole universe knows. They were just perfect for one another. And watching them fight through their fears and finally choose each other? You have earned yourself a free pass entry to their cheering squad.
I appreciated how their respective family and friend groups were portrayed in this one. Their support, love, & genuine warmth was the real treasure. Something I hope everyone in this life is blessed to have in their corner as this is the true backbone we all need in this life.
The footnotes that were spread throughout the book were amazing and well utilized. They added that extra layer of context that made me feel IN on everything, never lost.
Anna, you have hit a SIX with this one. Just book me a one-way ticket on this Chennai Express as I’m only moving forward on this ride.
Thank you Anna and Swipethebook PR for providing me with an e-ARC of this book!
May 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Stumped surprised me in the best way. I went in expecting a flirty sports romance and came out with a heart full of feels, a serious soft spot for Elias Joseph, and a deep appreciation for how Anna Writeshere handles complex characters with care.
Let’s start with Vera Thomas, CEO, queen, and unapologetically too much for anyone who can’t keep up. She’s fierce in the boardroom, loyal to her people, and someone who’s already built a life she’s proud of, romance optional. I loved that about her. She's a plus-size heroine who owns her space, and that confidence? Infectious. Watching her soften, not in a shrinking way, but in a way that allows love in, was such a joy.
And then there’s Elias Joseph, the golden boy cricketer, going through his own career dip. I was not prepared to fall this hard. He’s all charm and wit on the outside, but quietly battling self-doubt, grief, and pressure on the inside. There’s something incredibly moving about the way he shows up, for Vera, for himself, for a future he’s not sure he deserves but dares to want anyway.
Their romance? A fast burn with real emotional depth. What starts as a one-night stand quickly morphs into something tender, healing, and undeniably electric. From banter to belly-flips, from “no feelings” to all the feelings—it unfolds so naturally you don’t even realise you’re halfway to obsessed. Their friends-with-benefits-to-soulmates arc is what romance dreams are made of.
Also, brown love is at the centre of it all? Yes, please. The cultural nuances, the South Indian rep, the side characters who feel like family—it’s rich, joyful, and rooted in the kind of world I rarely get to see in mainstream romance. Bonus points for the footnotes that made the reading experience feel even more personal and immersive.
If I had to nitpick, while it’s marketed as an age gap romance, the gap (7 years) didn’t play a huge thematic role. And at times, the supportive family dynamics, while heartwarming, felt a tad idealised. But those are minor quibbles in a story that gave me everything I came for—and then some.
In short, Stumped is warm, witty, sexy, and unexpectedly soft. It’s about second chances, choosing joy, and loving someone through the messy middle. Anna’s writing continues to shine with heart, humour, and honesty. I’m already counting down to the next book in the series.
If you love sports romance with substance, layered characters, and top-tier banter, you need to meet Vera and Elias. They’ll bowl you over, pun very much intended. 😉
Stumped surprised me in the best way. I went in expecting a flirty sports romance and came out with a heart full of feels, a serious soft spot for Elias Joseph, and a deep appreciation for how Anna Writeshere handles complex characters with care.
Let’s start with Vera Thomas, CEO, queen, and unapologetically too much for anyone who can’t keep up. She’s fierce in the boardroom, loyal to her people, and someone who’s already built a life she’s proud of, romance optional. I loved that about her. She's a plus-size heroine who owns her space, and that confidence? Infectious. Watching her soften, not in a shrinking way, but in a way that allows love in, was such a joy.
And then there’s Elias Joseph, the golden boy cricketer, going through his own career dip. I was not prepared to fall this hard. He’s all charm and wit on the outside, but quietly battling self-doubt, grief, and pressure on the inside. There’s something incredibly moving about the way he shows up, for Vera, for himself, for a future he’s not sure he deserves but dares to want anyway.
Their romance? A fast burn with real emotional depth. What starts as a one-night stand quickly morphs into something tender, healing, and undeniably electric. From banter to belly-flips, from “no feelings” to all the feelings—it unfolds so naturally you don’t even realise you’re halfway to obsessed. Their friends-with-benefits-to-soulmates arc is what romance dreams are made of.
Also, brown love is at the centre of it all? Yes, please. The cultural nuances, the South Indian rep, the side characters who feel like family—it’s rich, joyful, and rooted in the kind of world I rarely get to see in mainstream romance. Bonus points for the footnotes that made the reading experience feel even more personal and immersive.
If I had to nitpick, while it’s marketed as an age gap romance, the gap (7 years) didn’t play a huge thematic role. And at times, the supportive family dynamics, while heartwarming, felt a tad idealised. But those are minor quibbles in a story that gave me everything I came for—and then some.
In short, Stumped is warm, witty, sexy, and unexpectedly soft. It’s about second chances, choosing joy, and loving someone through the messy middle. Anna’s writing continues to shine with heart, humour, and honesty. I’m already counting down to the next book in the series.
If you love sports romance with substance, layered characters, and top-tier banter, you need to meet Vera and Elias. They’ll bowl you over, pun very much intended. 😉
May 30, 2025
Ahhh!! Another absolutely amazing Anna P. book! I'm almost all caught up with her backlist and I've adored them all so far, she's amazing!
Unlike the others, this one (and this series) is set in India where Anna lives and I loved that! Having never been to India and not having read many, if any, books set there it's not somewhere I'm familiar with and it was lovely to see some sights, traditions and Anna's love for her city and country woven throughout! Another thing that I was absolutely obsessed with was Anna's little footnotes that provided extra info/context when there were either specific Indian or cricket terms that you might not know of. I loved so much learning about the foods and holidays mentioned as well a few Malayalam words/terms for family members I wouldn't have otherwise known about. Sometimes I find with books where there's a, for example, Indian MC you're usually stuck between either the other MC is fully American and asks the question for you and the Indian MC explains to them what the food is, or both MCs are Indian so it would be weird to have it explained within the story and I have to either go away and try to google what it is or just accept that it's an Indian dish I don't know and move on because it doesn't really matter to the story if I don't know exactly what the food is. But I'd always like to know! So reading Anna's footnotes explaining Indian sweets and telling us what she likes I thought was perfect and really beautiful. I love seeing inside author's minds haha!
But onto the story and the perfection that is Vera and Elias! I'm a bit in love with them both! They're so sweet and I loved the way their whole story played out. They both had some really crappy exes that messed them up a bit in different ways and it was lovely to see them both reassuring each other all the time and helping them over any bumps that caused. Just constantly being there for each other, their number one fan! I really want to rave about certain bits but I feel like that's kind of spoilers, but just know it was packed with excellent moments. The way their relationship panned out, from one night stand to full meeting-the-parents relationship, was perfect and I loved how they handled everything so maturely no matter what was thrown at them.
I honestly can't recommend this book enough, and from the snippets we saw of book 2's MCs I am incredibly excited for that and the rest of this series!
Unlike the others, this one (and this series) is set in India where Anna lives and I loved that! Having never been to India and not having read many, if any, books set there it's not somewhere I'm familiar with and it was lovely to see some sights, traditions and Anna's love for her city and country woven throughout! Another thing that I was absolutely obsessed with was Anna's little footnotes that provided extra info/context when there were either specific Indian or cricket terms that you might not know of. I loved so much learning about the foods and holidays mentioned as well a few Malayalam words/terms for family members I wouldn't have otherwise known about. Sometimes I find with books where there's a, for example, Indian MC you're usually stuck between either the other MC is fully American and asks the question for you and the Indian MC explains to them what the food is, or both MCs are Indian so it would be weird to have it explained within the story and I have to either go away and try to google what it is or just accept that it's an Indian dish I don't know and move on because it doesn't really matter to the story if I don't know exactly what the food is. But I'd always like to know! So reading Anna's footnotes explaining Indian sweets and telling us what she likes I thought was perfect and really beautiful. I love seeing inside author's minds haha!
But onto the story and the perfection that is Vera and Elias! I'm a bit in love with them both! They're so sweet and I loved the way their whole story played out. They both had some really crappy exes that messed them up a bit in different ways and it was lovely to see them both reassuring each other all the time and helping them over any bumps that caused. Just constantly being there for each other, their number one fan! I really want to rave about certain bits but I feel like that's kind of spoilers, but just know it was packed with excellent moments. The way their relationship panned out, from one night stand to full meeting-the-parents relationship, was perfect and I loved how they handled everything so maturely no matter what was thrown at them.
I honestly can't recommend this book enough, and from the snippets we saw of book 2's MCs I am incredibly excited for that and the rest of this series!
May 30, 2025
Just read my first Anna book and I’m absolutely wrecked in the best way possible 😭💖 This book was EVERYTHING I didn’t know I needed and more!!
First off… it’s a sports romance. But not just any sports romance. A CRICKET ROMANCE!! 🏏 As an Indian, you know how deep our love for this sport runs. It’s not just a game, it’s an emotion and this book captured that beautifully.💗
From start to finish, it was flawless. The pacing, the emotions, the chemistry?? PERFECTION. And shoutout to the best surprise ever: NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP 😭 I was so relieved to finally read a love story that didn’t break my heart just to piece it back together. It was a safe, warm, gorgeous ride the whole way through 💕
The representation in this book?? Unmatched. A plus-size fmc , brown people, mental health handled with care, and characters written with real, raw, messy, beautiful depth. It felt real. It felt right.
Let’s talk about Elias and Vera. My whole heart.💗😭
Elias??? BREATHTAKING. The way he never once made her feel bad about being loud, bold, and dominant, the way her exes did but instead uplifted her, supported her, and made her feel safe in her element… I swooned💗😩. He stood by her like a rock, admired her strength, and never dimmed her light. I fell for him SO HARD.😭💗
And Vera… my god🛐. She’s strong, driven, ambitious, loving, and takes zero bullshit. She’s the kind of heroine you root for with every fiber of your being. I love how she showed up for herself, how she held space for others, how she owned who she was ,every part of her. 💗
And what made their relationship even more special was the way she showed up for Elias too. 💗😭She believed in him, motivated him, helped him see his own worth, and stood by him when he felt low. Their bond felt so real and beautifully mutual. It wasn’t just about one person being the rock. They were each other’s safe place. I LOVE their dynamic so much 😭.
I honestly don’t know who I was falling for more… Elias or Vera 😭
AND THOSE NICKNAMES?? 🥺💗 Too cute to handle. Every page had me smiling and swooning. I’m so down bad for them it’s not even funny 😭
Anna, thank you for this book. You’ve made a fan for life 💌✨
First off… it’s a sports romance. But not just any sports romance. A CRICKET ROMANCE!! 🏏 As an Indian, you know how deep our love for this sport runs. It’s not just a game, it’s an emotion and this book captured that beautifully.💗
From start to finish, it was flawless. The pacing, the emotions, the chemistry?? PERFECTION. And shoutout to the best surprise ever: NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP 😭 I was so relieved to finally read a love story that didn’t break my heart just to piece it back together. It was a safe, warm, gorgeous ride the whole way through 💕
The representation in this book?? Unmatched. A plus-size fmc , brown people, mental health handled with care, and characters written with real, raw, messy, beautiful depth. It felt real. It felt right.
Let’s talk about Elias and Vera. My whole heart.💗😭
Elias??? BREATHTAKING. The way he never once made her feel bad about being loud, bold, and dominant, the way her exes did but instead uplifted her, supported her, and made her feel safe in her element… I swooned💗😩. He stood by her like a rock, admired her strength, and never dimmed her light. I fell for him SO HARD.😭💗
And Vera… my god🛐. She’s strong, driven, ambitious, loving, and takes zero bullshit. She’s the kind of heroine you root for with every fiber of your being. I love how she showed up for herself, how she held space for others, how she owned who she was ,every part of her. 💗
And what made their relationship even more special was the way she showed up for Elias too. 💗😭She believed in him, motivated him, helped him see his own worth, and stood by him when he felt low. Their bond felt so real and beautifully mutual. It wasn’t just about one person being the rock. They were each other’s safe place. I LOVE their dynamic so much 😭.
I honestly don’t know who I was falling for more… Elias or Vera 😭
AND THOSE NICKNAMES?? 🥺💗 Too cute to handle. Every page had me smiling and swooning. I’m so down bad for them it’s not even funny 😭
Anna, thank you for this book. You’ve made a fan for life 💌✨
June 1, 2025
I received an ARC of the book and this is my review.
Anna P. does it again.
Stumped is everything I love in a romance: mature characters, deep emotional arcs, delicious chemistry, and storytelling that feels both intimate and expansive. Vera and Elias are so perfectly matched, not just in attraction but in how they truly see and support each other.
Both are navigating burnout in high-pressure careers. Elias is the star cricket player whose entire team and country seem to rest on his shoulders. Vera is the powerhouse CEO of a thriving PR firm, constantly holding everything together. The pressure they each carry is all-consuming at times, but they meet in the middle with care, honesty, and real tenderness. They don’t fix each other; they support each other. And it’s beautiful to witness.
Also, can we talk about how refreshing it is to read a romance where the heroine is older and still gets the HEA she deserves? Vera is 40, confident, curvy, successful, and deeply loved. More of this, always.
The romance kicks off with a bang (hello, steamy one-night stand 👀) but then settles into a fast-slow burn. The kind that simmers with emotional tension and a growing sense of intimacy. Anna P. writes with such emotional intelligence and warmth. The chemistry is electric, but it’s the emotional safety and care between Vera and Elias that truly shine.
And the cricket! I loved how integral it was to the story. It’s not just a setting, it’s a meaningful part of Elias’s identity and healing. Anna gives us a thoughtful glimpse into her South Indian roots, and I adored learning more about the culture, the food, the family dynamics, and the everyday details that made the story feel so alive.
Anna P. is a forever auto-buy for me. Every story she writes gives me characters I want to root for and romances that feel like home. Stumped is no exception.
If you're into:
✔️ Plus-size, confident heroines
✔️ Age gap (older woman and younger man)
✔️ Sports romance with emotional depth (Cricket!)
✔️ Friends-with-benefits that turns into real love
✔️ Cultural richness and character-driven storytelling
Then Stumped absolutely belongs on your TBR.
Anna P. does it again.
Stumped is everything I love in a romance: mature characters, deep emotional arcs, delicious chemistry, and storytelling that feels both intimate and expansive. Vera and Elias are so perfectly matched, not just in attraction but in how they truly see and support each other.
Both are navigating burnout in high-pressure careers. Elias is the star cricket player whose entire team and country seem to rest on his shoulders. Vera is the powerhouse CEO of a thriving PR firm, constantly holding everything together. The pressure they each carry is all-consuming at times, but they meet in the middle with care, honesty, and real tenderness. They don’t fix each other; they support each other. And it’s beautiful to witness.
Also, can we talk about how refreshing it is to read a romance where the heroine is older and still gets the HEA she deserves? Vera is 40, confident, curvy, successful, and deeply loved. More of this, always.
The romance kicks off with a bang (hello, steamy one-night stand 👀) but then settles into a fast-slow burn. The kind that simmers with emotional tension and a growing sense of intimacy. Anna P. writes with such emotional intelligence and warmth. The chemistry is electric, but it’s the emotional safety and care between Vera and Elias that truly shine.
And the cricket! I loved how integral it was to the story. It’s not just a setting, it’s a meaningful part of Elias’s identity and healing. Anna gives us a thoughtful glimpse into her South Indian roots, and I adored learning more about the culture, the food, the family dynamics, and the everyday details that made the story feel so alive.
Anna P. is a forever auto-buy for me. Every story she writes gives me characters I want to root for and romances that feel like home. Stumped is no exception.
If you're into:
✔️ Plus-size, confident heroines
✔️ Age gap (older woman and younger man)
✔️ Sports romance with emotional depth (Cricket!)
✔️ Friends-with-benefits that turns into real love
✔️ Cultural richness and character-driven storytelling
Then Stumped absolutely belongs on your TBR.
May 30, 2025
I just finished reading my first Anna book and I'm completely hooked! I couldn't put it down and ended up reading it in one sitting🤌🏻 This book is perfect for anyone looking for a romance that celebrates confident, ambitious women and pairs them with endearing, supportive partners💙
The FMC, Vera Thomas embodies everything I adore in a heroine - she's a confident, successful, plus-sized entrepreneur who's built her business from scratch and isn't afraid to speak her mind. After swearing off relationships and embracing her independence, Vera's life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Elias Joseph, a charming stranger and famous cricket player, at a bar. Their encounter sparks a connection that challenges Vera's stance on love and relationships🫶🏻
The MMC, Elias is absolutely captivating! The way he wholeheartedly accepts and empowers her, never trying to change who she is, is truly breathtaking. He's her rock, celebrating her confidence, ambition, and boldness, making her feel seen, supported, and safe to be herself. Elias, struggling to come to terms with a career-threatening injury, was at a low point when he met Vera. He was immediately drawn to her unwavering confidence and unapologetic boldness, finding himself captivated by her sharp wit and unfiltered opinions🙈
Vera is phenomenal!🔥 She's a force to be reckoned with - strong, driven, ambitious, and unapologetically herself. Her confidence, resilience, and compassion make her an irresistible heroine. I admire how she shows up authentically, holds space for others, and owns her truth without apology. She's a true inspiration✨
Those nicknames are adorable!🥰 They're so sweet and endearing, it's impossible not to melt. Every mention of them had me smiling and swooning too. I'm completely smitten with this couple!🥹🤌🏻
The author's writing style is captivating, weaving a beautiful and emotional romance that draws you in and leaves a lasting impression. It's a true page-turner that will captivate you from start to finish. Highly recommended!👍🏻
The FMC, Vera Thomas embodies everything I adore in a heroine - she's a confident, successful, plus-sized entrepreneur who's built her business from scratch and isn't afraid to speak her mind. After swearing off relationships and embracing her independence, Vera's life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Elias Joseph, a charming stranger and famous cricket player, at a bar. Their encounter sparks a connection that challenges Vera's stance on love and relationships🫶🏻
The MMC, Elias is absolutely captivating! The way he wholeheartedly accepts and empowers her, never trying to change who she is, is truly breathtaking. He's her rock, celebrating her confidence, ambition, and boldness, making her feel seen, supported, and safe to be herself. Elias, struggling to come to terms with a career-threatening injury, was at a low point when he met Vera. He was immediately drawn to her unwavering confidence and unapologetic boldness, finding himself captivated by her sharp wit and unfiltered opinions🙈
Vera is phenomenal!🔥 She's a force to be reckoned with - strong, driven, ambitious, and unapologetically herself. Her confidence, resilience, and compassion make her an irresistible heroine. I admire how she shows up authentically, holds space for others, and owns her truth without apology. She's a true inspiration✨
Those nicknames are adorable!🥰 They're so sweet and endearing, it's impossible not to melt. Every mention of them had me smiling and swooning too. I'm completely smitten with this couple!🥹🤌🏻
The author's writing style is captivating, weaving a beautiful and emotional romance that draws you in and leaves a lasting impression. It's a true page-turner that will captivate you from start to finish. Highly recommended!👍🏻
May 30, 2025
Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ — Anything less would honestly be a total rip-off. This book’s a five-alarm fire. Don’t even argue.
Okay, listen—Stumped by Anna P came outta nowhere and just steamrolled right over my expectations. I went in thinking I’d get another typical, fluffy romance, maybe a dance number or two in the rain. Nope. This one’s got South Indian swagger, a cricket bat swinging, and a heroine who could probably set your self-esteem on fire just by walking past.
We’re smack dab in Chennai, with Kerala peeking in, and our star, Vera Thomas, owns every room she enters. She’s a CEO, she’s got curves for days, and she walks with the kind of “deal with it” confidence that makes you want to upgrade your own life soundtrack. And Elias Joseph? Dude is an injured cricketer with a heart of gold, and he falls for her so fast, I’m surprised he didn’t pull a muscle. Gravity’s got nothing on this man.
You get those hilarious “naatil evideya” moments, and then, bam—spicy scenes that straight-up torch the idea of “just friends.” Elias calls her Peaches, she calls him Superstar, and I swear, that alone deserves its own trophy. Their banter? Sizzling. The realness and respect? Perfection. Emotional intimacy? I want to live in it.
Look, I’ll just say it: Vera in the bedroom is a straight-up menace (in the best way), and Elias worships her like he’s found religion. They’re messy, they’re honest, and there’s not an ounce of shame between them. Somehow, it’s super hot without tipping over into cringe or cliché, and it’s got enough heart to make you reread half the conversations just to catch your breath.
Anna P didn’t just write a love story—she threw a party for everyone who’s ever been told they’re “too much.” This book’s about loving hard, living loud, and not apologizing for taking up space.
So yeah, if you want an Indian romance that actually feels fresh, with a southern kick, unapologetic women, and a cricketer who’s basically a cinnamon roll dipped in sriracha—grab Stumped. You’ll thank me later.😉🤭
@destiny._.decides💗💌
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ — Anything less would honestly be a total rip-off. This book’s a five-alarm fire. Don’t even argue.
Okay, listen—Stumped by Anna P came outta nowhere and just steamrolled right over my expectations. I went in thinking I’d get another typical, fluffy romance, maybe a dance number or two in the rain. Nope. This one’s got South Indian swagger, a cricket bat swinging, and a heroine who could probably set your self-esteem on fire just by walking past.
We’re smack dab in Chennai, with Kerala peeking in, and our star, Vera Thomas, owns every room she enters. She’s a CEO, she’s got curves for days, and she walks with the kind of “deal with it” confidence that makes you want to upgrade your own life soundtrack. And Elias Joseph? Dude is an injured cricketer with a heart of gold, and he falls for her so fast, I’m surprised he didn’t pull a muscle. Gravity’s got nothing on this man.
You get those hilarious “naatil evideya” moments, and then, bam—spicy scenes that straight-up torch the idea of “just friends.” Elias calls her Peaches, she calls him Superstar, and I swear, that alone deserves its own trophy. Their banter? Sizzling. The realness and respect? Perfection. Emotional intimacy? I want to live in it.
Look, I’ll just say it: Vera in the bedroom is a straight-up menace (in the best way), and Elias worships her like he’s found religion. They’re messy, they’re honest, and there’s not an ounce of shame between them. Somehow, it’s super hot without tipping over into cringe or cliché, and it’s got enough heart to make you reread half the conversations just to catch your breath.
Anna P didn’t just write a love story—she threw a party for everyone who’s ever been told they’re “too much.” This book’s about loving hard, living loud, and not apologizing for taking up space.
So yeah, if you want an Indian romance that actually feels fresh, with a southern kick, unapologetic women, and a cricketer who’s basically a cinnamon roll dipped in sriracha—grab Stumped. You’ll thank me later.😉🤭
@destiny._.decides💗💌
June 1, 2025
Stumped is an age gap cricket romance set in Chennai, India. I specifically picked this book because I don’t think I’ve ever seen a cricket romance and that felt interesting. I also love how, through books, we can experience other cultures and places and find the similarities to our own lives and experiences.
The relationships in Stumped are central to the story, but not just the one between our FMC and MMC. Vera and Elias’ relationships with their families and friends are also important to help us understand who they are as people and how their worlds function. I loved seeing Vera with her family and the love they share. Elias’ family are no different but seeing how the three athletes support each other was wonderful. There is also an element of found family with each of their sets of friends who are equally as loving and supportive. This then sets a real contrast to other characters and bolsters their villainy (no spoilers!)
I could clearly picture the world Anna P was creating for us. I have an understanding of Cricket as a game so I think this was helpful, but there is also a glossary and footnotes to guide you if you don’t! I enjoyed when Vera shows Elias her favourite places in Chennai, it helped to immerse the reader into the atmosphere.
I was hooked on their book pretty quickly, Vera felt like a woman I just wanted to be friends with and Elias is the ultimate golden retriever who falls fast and hard. I wanted to know their story and watch as they grew with each other. The representation of anxiety, past trauma and self doubt were very well handled and added to my need to find out how the book ended.
I always love a good supporting cast and the family and friends were no exception in Stumped. I think there is a full series just exploring their lives as well, and I can’t wait for the next book (no spoilers on who it is - read the book to find out).
This book has a great amount of spice in it, alongside the entertaining and emotional story. I really enjoyed it and recommend you grab it now!
The relationships in Stumped are central to the story, but not just the one between our FMC and MMC. Vera and Elias’ relationships with their families and friends are also important to help us understand who they are as people and how their worlds function. I loved seeing Vera with her family and the love they share. Elias’ family are no different but seeing how the three athletes support each other was wonderful. There is also an element of found family with each of their sets of friends who are equally as loving and supportive. This then sets a real contrast to other characters and bolsters their villainy (no spoilers!)
I could clearly picture the world Anna P was creating for us. I have an understanding of Cricket as a game so I think this was helpful, but there is also a glossary and footnotes to guide you if you don’t! I enjoyed when Vera shows Elias her favourite places in Chennai, it helped to immerse the reader into the atmosphere.
I was hooked on their book pretty quickly, Vera felt like a woman I just wanted to be friends with and Elias is the ultimate golden retriever who falls fast and hard. I wanted to know their story and watch as they grew with each other. The representation of anxiety, past trauma and self doubt were very well handled and added to my need to find out how the book ended.
I always love a good supporting cast and the family and friends were no exception in Stumped. I think there is a full series just exploring their lives as well, and I can’t wait for the next book (no spoilers on who it is - read the book to find out).
This book has a great amount of spice in it, alongside the entertaining and emotional story. I really enjoyed it and recommend you grab it now!
June 9, 2025
Stumped is a sizzling and emotionally rich sports romance that packs both heart and heat. Revolving around powerhouse CEO Vera Thomas and cricket star Elias Joseph, this story brings together two driven individuals who are at very different crossroads in life—but find unexpected solace and strength in each other.
Vera is the epitome of a boss lady—strong, focused, and unapologetically in charge of her life and career. Tired of being underestimated and hurt, she has no room for love, especially not in a world dominated by toxic masculinity. Elias, on the other hand, is a professional athlete struggling to rebuild his career after an injury sidelined his dreams. Despite his fame, he’s endearing, emotionally intelligent, and radiates golden retriever energy—charming, loyal, and warm-hearted.
What starts as a passionate one-night stand quickly turns into something deeper, and the chemistry between Vera and Elias is nothing short of electric. Their connection is grounded in mutual respect, vulnerability, and an unshakable sense of support. It's refreshing to see a romance where both leads genuinely empower one another through their individual journeys.
The character development is a standout aspect of the book. Watching Vera gradually let her guard down and Elias reclaim his confidence is incredibly satisfying. Their emotional growth feels natural and well-paced, making their love story feel all the more earned.
While external conflicts do challenge their relationship—forcing them to choose between love and ambition—the resolution is heartfelt and empowering. This isn’t just a love story; it’s about balance, healing, and the courage to embrace happiness on your own terms.
Perfect for readers who love steamy chemistry, sports backdrops, and strong female leads paired with wholesome, supportive heroes. A must-read for fans of modern romance with emotional depth.
Vera is the epitome of a boss lady—strong, focused, and unapologetically in charge of her life and career. Tired of being underestimated and hurt, she has no room for love, especially not in a world dominated by toxic masculinity. Elias, on the other hand, is a professional athlete struggling to rebuild his career after an injury sidelined his dreams. Despite his fame, he’s endearing, emotionally intelligent, and radiates golden retriever energy—charming, loyal, and warm-hearted.
What starts as a passionate one-night stand quickly turns into something deeper, and the chemistry between Vera and Elias is nothing short of electric. Their connection is grounded in mutual respect, vulnerability, and an unshakable sense of support. It's refreshing to see a romance where both leads genuinely empower one another through their individual journeys.
The character development is a standout aspect of the book. Watching Vera gradually let her guard down and Elias reclaim his confidence is incredibly satisfying. Their emotional growth feels natural and well-paced, making their love story feel all the more earned.
While external conflicts do challenge their relationship—forcing them to choose between love and ambition—the resolution is heartfelt and empowering. This isn’t just a love story; it’s about balance, healing, and the courage to embrace happiness on your own terms.
Perfect for readers who love steamy chemistry, sports backdrops, and strong female leads paired with wholesome, supportive heroes. A must-read for fans of modern romance with emotional depth.
May 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)
What a delightful surprise! I had the absolute joy of reading an advance copy of Stumped by @annawriteshere, and I’m still smiling. There’s a special kind of pride in seeing Indian authors shine globally—and Anna delivers a story that’s vibrant, rooted, and full of heart.
Set against the high-energy world of cricket 🏏 (which I grew up watching and still love!), this romance pulled me in from page one. The instant spark between Elias and Vera felt genuine and grounded. And what stood out most? Vera. A big girl heroine who’s confident, ambitious, loyal, and loved—completely and wholeheartedly. Her fire, her heart, and yes, her curves, are all celebrated. That’s rare, and it hit home for me. 💖
Vera is the kind of heroine I cheer for: complex, resilient, and unapologetically herself. And Elias? Oh, Elias. Charming, respectful, emotionally aware—he’s the kind of book boyfriend who feels like a warm hug after a long day. 💐
The Mallu cultural rep added such flavor and authenticity (shoutout to my Mallu bestie—this made me smile big time!). The long-distance romance set during cricket season felt refreshingly real—emotionally resonant without slipping into melodrama.
If I had one tiny note—it’s promoted as an age gap romance, but that didn’t play a significant role in the story. And while the supportive families were lovely, they felt a touch idealistic by Indian standards. But honestly? The heart, the hope, the love—it all more than makes up for that. 🌸
I’m rating this a strong 4/5 ⭐️. Uplifting, romantic, and charming. Vera and Elias have my heart—and I’m already counting down the days until we get Sam and Patrick’s story! 📚✨
P.S. Feeling very lucky to be holding this gorgeous ARC—Stumped releases May 30, 2025. Romance readers, make sure it’s on your radar. You don’t want to miss this one! 👀
What a delightful surprise! I had the absolute joy of reading an advance copy of Stumped by @annawriteshere, and I’m still smiling. There’s a special kind of pride in seeing Indian authors shine globally—and Anna delivers a story that’s vibrant, rooted, and full of heart.
Set against the high-energy world of cricket 🏏 (which I grew up watching and still love!), this romance pulled me in from page one. The instant spark between Elias and Vera felt genuine and grounded. And what stood out most? Vera. A big girl heroine who’s confident, ambitious, loyal, and loved—completely and wholeheartedly. Her fire, her heart, and yes, her curves, are all celebrated. That’s rare, and it hit home for me. 💖
Vera is the kind of heroine I cheer for: complex, resilient, and unapologetically herself. And Elias? Oh, Elias. Charming, respectful, emotionally aware—he’s the kind of book boyfriend who feels like a warm hug after a long day. 💐
The Mallu cultural rep added such flavor and authenticity (shoutout to my Mallu bestie—this made me smile big time!). The long-distance romance set during cricket season felt refreshingly real—emotionally resonant without slipping into melodrama.
If I had one tiny note—it’s promoted as an age gap romance, but that didn’t play a significant role in the story. And while the supportive families were lovely, they felt a touch idealistic by Indian standards. But honestly? The heart, the hope, the love—it all more than makes up for that. 🌸
I’m rating this a strong 4/5 ⭐️. Uplifting, romantic, and charming. Vera and Elias have my heart—and I’m already counting down the days until we get Sam and Patrick’s story! 📚✨
P.S. Feeling very lucky to be holding this gorgeous ARC—Stumped releases May 30, 2025. Romance readers, make sure it’s on your radar. You don’t want to miss this one! 👀
June 1, 2025
I just love Anna P. She’s an auto-read author for me, and she’s done it again—with her first sports romance! Stumped brings us the world of cricket. My stepdad grew up in Guyana and passed on his love for the sport to me. But even if you don’t know what a “googly” is, you’ll still be swept away by this story. Because Anna gives us so much more—passion, romance, emotional depth, and cultural richness that transports you to India. You’ll feel the heat, smell the spices, and catch the sizzle between Elias and Vera.
And I have to highlight this powerful dedication:
“For those who are told they’re ‘too much.’ If they can’t handle you when you’re too much, they don’t deserve you when you’re just enough.”
I felt that. The entire story embodies this truth.
Vera Thomas is the kind of heroine who inspires you to level up. A CEO who’s smart, self-assured, and unapologetically takes up space—in her body, in business, and in love. I was here for every bit of her red-lipped confidence and badassery.
Elias Joseph? Whew. He had me in a chokehold.
Recovering from an injury that threatens his cricket career, he remains grounded, gentle, and genuinely kind. He’s patient, respectful, and deeply attuned to Vera. A cinnamon-roll hero who sees her clearly and worships every part of who she is.
Anna laces her storytelling with so much heart. Whether it’s family, friendship, or found connections, she builds worlds that feel lived in—populated with characters who feel like home.
Stumped checks every box:
✔️ Positive fat representation
✔️ Diverse and compelling characters
✔️ Mental health and authentic healing
✔️ Beautiful cultural details
✔️ Banter that slaps
✔️ Tenderness, steam, and swoon
I can’t wait for the next book in the series. Don’t sleep on this one—grab your copy of Stumped today!
And I have to highlight this powerful dedication:
“For those who are told they’re ‘too much.’ If they can’t handle you when you’re too much, they don’t deserve you when you’re just enough.”
I felt that. The entire story embodies this truth.
Vera Thomas is the kind of heroine who inspires you to level up. A CEO who’s smart, self-assured, and unapologetically takes up space—in her body, in business, and in love. I was here for every bit of her red-lipped confidence and badassery.
Elias Joseph? Whew. He had me in a chokehold.
Recovering from an injury that threatens his cricket career, he remains grounded, gentle, and genuinely kind. He’s patient, respectful, and deeply attuned to Vera. A cinnamon-roll hero who sees her clearly and worships every part of who she is.
Anna laces her storytelling with so much heart. Whether it’s family, friendship, or found connections, she builds worlds that feel lived in—populated with characters who feel like home.
Stumped checks every box:
✔️ Positive fat representation
✔️ Diverse and compelling characters
✔️ Mental health and authentic healing
✔️ Beautiful cultural details
✔️ Banter that slaps
✔️ Tenderness, steam, and swoon
I can’t wait for the next book in the series. Don’t sleep on this one—grab your copy of Stumped today!
May 31, 2025
Stumped by Anna P
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @annawriteshere and @swipethebook.pr for providing me with an eArc. Stumped is out now!!!
Whewwwwww this book was a whole vibe from start to finish! Stumped is the sizzling first installment in The Love League series, set in South India, and packed with spice, banter, and boss energy. It follows Vera Thomas, a 40-year-old powerhouse businesswoman who’s done playing games in love, and Elias Joseph, a 33-year-old cricket star recovering from a major injury and some even bigger life disappointments. Their one-night stand at a bar? Let’s just say everything changes.
This was such a fun read! I lovedddd the diversity, the unapologetic discussion of sexism in the workplace, and the layered, mature romance between two people who just get each other. Vera is straight-up main character energy: smart, sexy, in charge, and completely owning her space. And Elias? He’s officially entered my book boyfriend league. Supportive, respectful, obsessed with Vera in the best way, and not afraid of her power, in fact, he’s in awe of it.
💬 The banter? Top tier.
🔥 The spice? SCORCHING.
💥 The chemistry? ELECTRIC.
This is an age-gap romance where the age gap actually works because the emotional maturity between them is so strong. I loved how they communicated, supported each other, and built something real, a fast burn, but still so authentic. The side characters? A riot. So excited for who’s getting their stories next!
Read this if you love:
💓Sports romance with substance
💓Powerful women in male-dominated fields
💓Steamy scenes that’s not for the faint of heart
💓Book boyfriends who worship the ground she walks on
Anna P, you’ve got a hit on your hands, and I am so ready for more from The Love League!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @annawriteshere and @swipethebook.pr for providing me with an eArc. Stumped is out now!!!
Whewwwwww this book was a whole vibe from start to finish! Stumped is the sizzling first installment in The Love League series, set in South India, and packed with spice, banter, and boss energy. It follows Vera Thomas, a 40-year-old powerhouse businesswoman who’s done playing games in love, and Elias Joseph, a 33-year-old cricket star recovering from a major injury and some even bigger life disappointments. Their one-night stand at a bar? Let’s just say everything changes.
This was such a fun read! I lovedddd the diversity, the unapologetic discussion of sexism in the workplace, and the layered, mature romance between two people who just get each other. Vera is straight-up main character energy: smart, sexy, in charge, and completely owning her space. And Elias? He’s officially entered my book boyfriend league. Supportive, respectful, obsessed with Vera in the best way, and not afraid of her power, in fact, he’s in awe of it.
💬 The banter? Top tier.
🔥 The spice? SCORCHING.
💥 The chemistry? ELECTRIC.
This is an age-gap romance where the age gap actually works because the emotional maturity between them is so strong. I loved how they communicated, supported each other, and built something real, a fast burn, but still so authentic. The side characters? A riot. So excited for who’s getting their stories next!
Read this if you love:
💓Sports romance with substance
💓Powerful women in male-dominated fields
💓Steamy scenes that’s not for the faint of heart
💓Book boyfriends who worship the ground she walks on
Anna P, you’ve got a hit on your hands, and I am so ready for more from The Love League!
June 20, 2025
Elias and vera
One a cricket sensation the other a triumphant enterpreneur who built a marketting and pe agencies from ground up . As much as they feel like they belong to one another they have there own demons to fight , there own fears to conquer there own life which is fulfilled with a loving understanding and encouraging family, at the same time voids which none could explain . They were never searching for someone to heal them but things happen and somehow pieces fell into place and they found each other amongst all HR paperwork , clubs , secret gigs , professional obligations and careers at stake they bloom or rather choose to grow into pieces now ready to fit one another , human emotions of fear , apprehension , dejection , and de ja vu all things combined together in a beautiful story is stumped .
The malayali cultural accents helps us peeking into the beautiful nuances in terms of loving endearments and tasty delicacies ,the cricket enthusiasts would love the touch of cricket which elias plays. Family dynamics where people actually support each other in all aspects 👀( read the book guys go ahead and plz do ) .
Also also also foreshadowing of the next book in the series is 🤌 I am waiting for tamara and Patrick ✨giving us a rel glimpse of how male domination in corporate sectors demands a lot more than females than males , how females are expected to do more cause " they need to prove themselves more than men " for equal or at par wages , how even after reaching heights a women is subjected to public crushing allegations just because she lives her life. All in all an adequate mirror of society in the accentuate of the story it's definitely a 4.2 /5 ⭐ read.
One a cricket sensation the other a triumphant enterpreneur who built a marketting and pe agencies from ground up . As much as they feel like they belong to one another they have there own demons to fight , there own fears to conquer there own life which is fulfilled with a loving understanding and encouraging family, at the same time voids which none could explain . They were never searching for someone to heal them but things happen and somehow pieces fell into place and they found each other amongst all HR paperwork , clubs , secret gigs , professional obligations and careers at stake they bloom or rather choose to grow into pieces now ready to fit one another , human emotions of fear , apprehension , dejection , and de ja vu all things combined together in a beautiful story is stumped .
The malayali cultural accents helps us peeking into the beautiful nuances in terms of loving endearments and tasty delicacies ,the cricket enthusiasts would love the touch of cricket which elias plays. Family dynamics where people actually support each other in all aspects 👀( read the book guys go ahead and plz do ) .
Also also also foreshadowing of the next book in the series is 🤌 I am waiting for tamara and Patrick ✨giving us a rel glimpse of how male domination in corporate sectors demands a lot more than females than males , how females are expected to do more cause " they need to prove themselves more than men " for equal or at par wages , how even after reaching heights a women is subjected to public crushing allegations just because she lives her life. All in all an adequate mirror of society in the accentuate of the story it's definitely a 4.2 /5 ⭐ read.
May 29, 2025
🩶 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 🩶
🎧 currently playing: “Water Fountain” by Alec Benjamin + “Yellow Hearts” by Ant Saunders
(vibes: flirty banter, post-match tension, late-night confessions)
☁️ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 ☁️
🏏 sports romance
🧍♀️🧍♂️ age gap
🔐 secret relationship
🔥 one-night stand
😮💨 friends with benefits
⚡ fast burn
💬 mutual support + real communication
🌙﹒₊˚✧༚｡⋆
🩶 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐓
This was my first book by Anna and now I get the hype. I’m officially obsessed. If this is how she starts her sports romance era, I will be seated for every single one that follows.
Vera and Elias had me kicking my feet. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Their connection? So deep and emotionally satisfying. The banter, the spice, the way they show up for each other? I am unwell.
Also, the rep is everything. Brown girls, plus-size girls, mental health, real-life struggles handled with so much care. I felt seen. I felt heard. I felt hungry for more.
Fav quote:
> “I love your broad shoulders, honey, but they're not meant to carry an entire cricket team.”
It’s giving comfort. It’s giving love. It’s giving softness.
🌙﹒₊˚✧༚｡⋆
🖤 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐀
Confident, vulnerable, powerful. A brown girl who knows her worth.
✨ 𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐀𝐒
Sexy, sweet, and sensitive. The quiet storm type.
🌙﹒₊˚✧༚｡⋆
📌 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫
Their connection builds fast but feels earned. The way they support and challenge each other is pure magic.
🌟 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞
Smart, spicy, and full of heart. I devoured this book.
Big thank you to Anna and swipethebook PR for the ARC. Cannot wait for more.
💭
Instant favorite. Add this to your TBR right now.
🎧 currently playing: “Water Fountain” by Alec Benjamin + “Yellow Hearts” by Ant Saunders
(vibes: flirty banter, post-match tension, late-night confessions)
☁️ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 ☁️
🏏 sports romance
🧍♀️🧍♂️ age gap
🔐 secret relationship
🔥 one-night stand
😮💨 friends with benefits
⚡ fast burn
💬 mutual support + real communication
🌙﹒₊˚✧༚｡⋆
🩶 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐓
This was my first book by Anna and now I get the hype. I’m officially obsessed. If this is how she starts her sports romance era, I will be seated for every single one that follows.
Vera and Elias had me kicking my feet. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Their connection? So deep and emotionally satisfying. The banter, the spice, the way they show up for each other? I am unwell.
Also, the rep is everything. Brown girls, plus-size girls, mental health, real-life struggles handled with so much care. I felt seen. I felt heard. I felt hungry for more.
Fav quote:
> “I love your broad shoulders, honey, but they're not meant to carry an entire cricket team.”
It’s giving comfort. It’s giving love. It’s giving softness.
🌙﹒₊˚✧༚｡⋆
🖤 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐀
Confident, vulnerable, powerful. A brown girl who knows her worth.
✨ 𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐀𝐒
Sexy, sweet, and sensitive. The quiet storm type.
🌙﹒₊˚✧༚｡⋆
📌 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫
Their connection builds fast but feels earned. The way they support and challenge each other is pure magic.
🌟 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞
Smart, spicy, and full of heart. I devoured this book.
Big thank you to Anna and swipethebook PR for the ARC. Cannot wait for more.
💭
Instant favorite. Add this to your TBR right now.
June 14, 2025
“That afternoon, he tracked your every movement and smiled when you weren’t looking. Elias looks at you the way your father looks at me.”
Just ohmygod…!!! Such kind, supportive, and loving parents always manage to get me emotional. Both sets of parents in this one are just the sweetest. I sincerely hope I never ever forget the way Vera’s family reacted to having Elias over for lunch with them for the first time. If the sweetest parents weren’t enough, Vera is also surrounded by a friend group that could easily be envied by many. Honestly, I would be totally fine if @annawriteshere gave us stories of alllll the characters in this one. If the beginning of this world is so engagingly beautiful, I am certainly looking forward to more and more! 💛
“You’re a chaos demon.”
“Yeah, but I’m your chaos demon.”
Vera and Elias, peaches and her superstar…these two have my heart. The way they not just care for each other but firmly believe in the other is something everyone should aspire for. Hyping each other up whenever needed and doing it sincerely is what I take from this couple. They are definitely an example of how two characters are written to belong with each other beyond any doubt.
Stumped is possibly only the second cricket romance I’ve read, but it was certainly as entertaining and nail-biting as watching an actual match. The cricket fan in me definitely enjoyed a lot and my reader self was absolutely stumped by the story too. And like one instance in this book, pun absolutely intended 😉
“Sometimes the best things in life are surprises.”
Just ohmygod…!!! Such kind, supportive, and loving parents always manage to get me emotional. Both sets of parents in this one are just the sweetest. I sincerely hope I never ever forget the way Vera’s family reacted to having Elias over for lunch with them for the first time. If the sweetest parents weren’t enough, Vera is also surrounded by a friend group that could easily be envied by many. Honestly, I would be totally fine if @annawriteshere gave us stories of alllll the characters in this one. If the beginning of this world is so engagingly beautiful, I am certainly looking forward to more and more! 💛
“You’re a chaos demon.”
“Yeah, but I’m your chaos demon.”
Vera and Elias, peaches and her superstar…these two have my heart. The way they not just care for each other but firmly believe in the other is something everyone should aspire for. Hyping each other up whenever needed and doing it sincerely is what I take from this couple. They are definitely an example of how two characters are written to belong with each other beyond any doubt.
Stumped is possibly only the second cricket romance I’ve read, but it was certainly as entertaining and nail-biting as watching an actual match. The cricket fan in me definitely enjoyed a lot and my reader self was absolutely stumped by the story too. And like one instance in this book, pun absolutely intended 😉
“Sometimes the best things in life are surprises.”
May 29, 2025
ANNNAAAAAA….. YOU DID THAT! 👏🏼
I absolutely LOVE Anna’s books! Anna’s writing style is SOOO bingable, easy to read and everything hits - the characters, their stories, the chemistry, the spice, the build up, the romance.. all of it is just so well done! Stop sleeping on this queen! 👑
I absolutely loved this book! I feel like I gained so much knowledge on top of just enjoying the book as a whole! I knew absolutely nothing about cricket and Anna found a way to educate without making it feel like a lesson! I understood what i was reading in regards to cricket and enjoyed it within the story! Not only that but the cultural knowledge that she shared was great! I love reading books that immerse me into a culture I am not familiar with so I can learn and appreciate!
Stumped checks so many boxes for me as well - plus size representation, social issues, diverse characters, mental health representation and so many more!
Vera is such a bad a$$ FMC. She’s confident on levels i strive to someday be. She knows who she is and she knows she worked her a$$ off to get where she’s at and she is not going to let anyone (ESPECIALLY NO MAN) make that smaller.
Elias is such a lover boy! I adored how he literally groveled at every single inch of Vera and who she is. He literally would give it all for her and we love that!
The vibes Stumped brings to the party:
-Sports Romance
-Age Gap
-Friends with Benefits
10/10 recommend! STOP SLEEPING ON ANNA’S BOOKS! 🏏
I absolutely LOVE Anna’s books! Anna’s writing style is SOOO bingable, easy to read and everything hits - the characters, their stories, the chemistry, the spice, the build up, the romance.. all of it is just so well done! Stop sleeping on this queen! 👑
I absolutely loved this book! I feel like I gained so much knowledge on top of just enjoying the book as a whole! I knew absolutely nothing about cricket and Anna found a way to educate without making it feel like a lesson! I understood what i was reading in regards to cricket and enjoyed it within the story! Not only that but the cultural knowledge that she shared was great! I love reading books that immerse me into a culture I am not familiar with so I can learn and appreciate!
Stumped checks so many boxes for me as well - plus size representation, social issues, diverse characters, mental health representation and so many more!
Vera is such a bad a$$ FMC. She’s confident on levels i strive to someday be. She knows who she is and she knows she worked her a$$ off to get where she’s at and she is not going to let anyone (ESPECIALLY NO MAN) make that smaller.
Elias is such a lover boy! I adored how he literally groveled at every single inch of Vera and who she is. He literally would give it all for her and we love that!
The vibes Stumped brings to the party:
-Sports Romance
-Age Gap
-Friends with Benefits
10/10 recommend! STOP SLEEPING ON ANNA’S BOOKS! 🏏
May 30, 2025
OMG OMG OMG, THIS BOOK? I am in love. I never enjoyed reading e books but I just couldn't keep it down and finished it in just a span of a few days😭🤚🏻
This sports romance book was everything i didn't know I needed. This was my first ever cricket romance book (i don't think I've even heard of any book w cricket romance before) But as my first, this was so good and really unexpected.
Well, coming to the book, the book revolves around a CEO businesswoman Vera Thomas, who's not interested in any kind of commitments after she got her heart broken a few times before, and Elias Joseph, an injured cricketer who has never been in love and questions his worth daily. And how their 'Friends with benefits' deal changes into much more. The story is set in the south part of India (Chennai)
I loved the book's plot and the characters so much. Vera? Oh my god, she's such a badass fmc, always so freaking blunt and sassy? I love her. Admire her. And she's my IDOL FROM NOW ON. I love how she always motivates the people she loves🥹 And Elias? omg He's such a sweetheart, supporting boyfriend. Always supporting his girlfriend, he deserves ALL THE LOVE IN THE WORLD. And the side characters? I loved Tamara so much too, i love how she's so goofy and fun and full of life and I am really looking forward to her book next🥹 (She's the cousin/bestfriend of the fmc)
Plus the spicy scenes? 🥵🥵 i can't describe it, god. Everything was just so thoroughly written and I DEVOURED THIS BOOK!
This sports romance book was everything i didn't know I needed. This was my first ever cricket romance book (i don't think I've even heard of any book w cricket romance before) But as my first, this was so good and really unexpected.
Well, coming to the book, the book revolves around a CEO businesswoman Vera Thomas, who's not interested in any kind of commitments after she got her heart broken a few times before, and Elias Joseph, an injured cricketer who has never been in love and questions his worth daily. And how their 'Friends with benefits' deal changes into much more. The story is set in the south part of India (Chennai)
I loved the book's plot and the characters so much. Vera? Oh my god, she's such a badass fmc, always so freaking blunt and sassy? I love her. Admire her. And she's my IDOL FROM NOW ON. I love how she always motivates the people she loves🥹 And Elias? omg He's such a sweetheart, supporting boyfriend. Always supporting his girlfriend, he deserves ALL THE LOVE IN THE WORLD. And the side characters? I loved Tamara so much too, i love how she's so goofy and fun and full of life and I am really looking forward to her book next🥹 (She's the cousin/bestfriend of the fmc)
Plus the spicy scenes? 🥵🥵 i can't describe it, god. Everything was just so thoroughly written and I DEVOURED THIS BOOK!
May 31, 2025
This book?? Absolutely everything (✿ ♡‿♡)
I went in expecting a cute sports romance and came out with a full-blown emotional attachment to these characters. Elias and Vera stole my heart -their chemistry was electric, their connection was deep, and their love felt real in every sense.
Elias and Vera completely stole my heart. Elias is a cricket player who is kind, caring, and so in love with Vera. He supports her fully and loves her for who she is. Vera is a confident, plus-size businesswoman who knows her worth. She is strong, sassy, and never afraid to speak her mind. I admired her so much, especially the way she takes care of others and stands up for herself.
Their relationship was beautiful. They started off as friends with benefits, but slowly their bond grew into something deeper and full of love. The way they encouraged and comforted each other made their love story so special. The romance was both steamy and emotional, written in a way that felt real and respectful.
Even though I don't know much about cricket, the book explained things clearly and made it easy to enjoy. The story flowed well, with no unnecessary drama. I also loved the side characters, especially Tamara. She was funny, full of life, and I can't wait to read her story next.
This book gave me everything I wanted-love, laughter, friendship, passion, and personal growth. No toxic tropes, just pure, gorgeous love and growth.
I went in expecting a cute sports romance and came out with a full-blown emotional attachment to these characters. Elias and Vera stole my heart -their chemistry was electric, their connection was deep, and their love felt real in every sense.
Elias and Vera completely stole my heart. Elias is a cricket player who is kind, caring, and so in love with Vera. He supports her fully and loves her for who she is. Vera is a confident, plus-size businesswoman who knows her worth. She is strong, sassy, and never afraid to speak her mind. I admired her so much, especially the way she takes care of others and stands up for herself.
Their relationship was beautiful. They started off as friends with benefits, but slowly their bond grew into something deeper and full of love. The way they encouraged and comforted each other made their love story so special. The romance was both steamy and emotional, written in a way that felt real and respectful.
Even though I don't know much about cricket, the book explained things clearly and made it easy to enjoy. The story flowed well, with no unnecessary drama. I also loved the side characters, especially Tamara. She was funny, full of life, and I can't wait to read her story next.
This book gave me everything I wanted-love, laughter, friendship, passion, and personal growth. No toxic tropes, just pure, gorgeous love and growth.
June 7, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.75) stars
.
.
I love sports romance and when the sport is CRICKET ✨✨✨
.
It's a cricket romance, reverse age gap, black cat woman, plus size FMC, Forbidden (kinda), smutty romance, amazing familial connection, athlete family, part of a series....what else do you want???
This is perfect for sports romance, smutty reader girlies. You will love it.
I love the characters, the way the author shows the importance of women in leading positions and the struggles they face through this story is wonderful 💯
Vera, a leading Business woman who built walls against her heart because of her previous breakups find Elias Joseph, the cricketer who is under physio and with losing hope of going back on the pitch in a pub. But that one night isn't enough cause our MMC has already caught feelings but she can't do relationships. Though they start their relationship with "friends with benefits" they soon start catching feelings and they can't ignore the bubbling emotions and love towards each other. But can Vera crack those walls against her heart and invite Elias in. Can Elias Joseph make Vera fall for him. Can they excel both in Love and Career?
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I had such a fun time reading this novel. If you are a sports romance reader who loves open door smutty romance with heart warming scenes and emotional moments and well built character arcs go for this one. I am sure you will enjoy it so much 😊❤️
.
.
I love sports romance and when the sport is CRICKET ✨✨✨
.
It's a cricket romance, reverse age gap, black cat woman, plus size FMC, Forbidden (kinda), smutty romance, amazing familial connection, athlete family, part of a series....what else do you want???
This is perfect for sports romance, smutty reader girlies. You will love it.
I love the characters, the way the author shows the importance of women in leading positions and the struggles they face through this story is wonderful 💯
Vera, a leading Business woman who built walls against her heart because of her previous breakups find Elias Joseph, the cricketer who is under physio and with losing hope of going back on the pitch in a pub. But that one night isn't enough cause our MMC has already caught feelings but she can't do relationships. Though they start their relationship with "friends with benefits" they soon start catching feelings and they can't ignore the bubbling emotions and love towards each other. But can Vera crack those walls against her heart and invite Elias in. Can Elias Joseph make Vera fall for him. Can they excel both in Love and Career?
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I had such a fun time reading this novel. If you are a sports romance reader who loves open door smutty romance with heart warming scenes and emotional moments and well built character arcs go for this one. I am sure you will enjoy it so much 😊❤️
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