Lady and the Footballer

by Ellie St. Clair

He plays to win—but loving her could cost him everything.

Miss Lily Evans has always believed she would marry for love, but with her parents growing impatient and her freedom slipping away, she’s desperate to escape her mother’s choice of suitor. She never expected her surprising protector to be the very man she’s forbidden to love, a working-class footballer who plays for her father’s team.

Colin Thornton has no time for highborn ladies—especially not the viscount’s fiery daughter. With his family relying on him, he’s buried his dreams to work and play football, the only passion left that’s truly his. Falling for Lily could cost him everything.

But when sabotage strikes both the family business and Colin’s beloved football club, Lily and Colin are forced to work together to uncover the truth. As danger draws them closer, desire ignites between them—and suddenly, defying society’s rules becomes the least of their worries.

The Lady and the Footballer is a steamy Victorian historical romance.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Amazon, Sports, Victorian

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 27, 2025

About the author

Ellie St. Clair writes heartwarming Regency romances with spirited heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and happily ever afters. Her passion for history shines through in richly drawn characters and romances brimming with irresistible tension.

A former journalist with an incurable love of history, she is the author of popular series such as Remingtons of the Regency and The Bluestocking Scandals. She lives in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her husband and three children.

When she isn’t crafting romantic tales or keeping up with her kids, she’s mainlining coffee, sweating it out on her Peloton, valiantly attempting to keep her plants alive, planning her next dog rescue, or dreaming of lake escapes.

Ellie loves corresponding with readers, so visit her website, email her, sign up for her newsletter or join her Facebook group for exclusive content, giveaways, and sneak peeks at upcoming books.

Contact her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/elliestclair, and sign up for her mailing list at http://www.elliestclair.com/subscribe.

Reviews

[Becky (romantic_pursuing_feels) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers

Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋 (I wanted a bit more….details and emotional in the moment thoughts)
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑 (they are average, not super long)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥
Humor: A touch
Perspective: third person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? plot
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: quite soon in, chapter 1
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after for the mains
Epilogue: Yes
Format: read a bought e-book version
Why I chose this book: I have been curious about Ellie St. Clair’s books and wanted to try!
Mains: Colin and Lily – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)

Should I read in order?
This is the first in Clair’s Scandals and Scores series.

Basic plot:
Lily’s intrigued by Colin, who works at her fathers mill and plays football for her father’s team.

Give this a try if you want:
- historical romance - Victorian
- England setting
- heroine loves books and football
- hero plays football and is the foreman of a factory
- class difference – she’s the daughter of (I think) a Viscount and he’s a working class mill operator
- working together to solve the mystery of who is sabotaging the team
- medium steam – 3 full scenes and some kisses

Ages:
- hero is 26, heroine is 24

First line:
Nothing could compete with a day like this.

My thoughts:
I have been meaning to try Ellie St. Clair for quite a while now and thought a historical sports romance might be a fun one!

This one I liked a lot about it – it was kind of a gentle, sweet read that played up the class difference in a believable way that I enjoyed. The football aspect was fun and not something I’ve read before in historical. There was a lot of sweetness in the novel.

I wanted just a touch more from it though – maybe a touch more character depth as it seemed to be more focused on the mystery and plot elements (which is just my personal preference) and maybe the spicy scenes a bit more emotional developed. But this was a really pleasant read and I loved the characters in it.

Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 4 stars
Favorite book: This one by default

Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.

- some scenes of the heroine being harassed by an undesired man
Author content warnings? Didn’t catch any (I always encourage you to check author’s websites, since Amazon penalizes authors for certain content warning words in their novels)


Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:

Safe sex: the first time it’s not really mentioned either way, he pulls out the second time
How’s the consent? It’s good
Pregnancy/children in story? No
Chapter 15 – kiss
Chapter 18 – 🔥 kisses, fingering for her that continues in to the next chapter
Gasping and panting, she rocked her hips against his hand, desperate for more of his touch.
“Colin,” she moaned wantonly, barely recognizing her voice. “Oh, don’t stop…”
He growled low in his throat, the sound sending delicious shivers down her spine.
Chapter 22 – 🔥 fingering for her, missionary at the inn
”That’s it, luv,” Colin groaned once he lifted his head, circling the sensitive nub at the apex of her thighs. “Let me hear you.”
Chapter 24 – 🔥 missionary, her on top in the gazebo
””You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen, and I am so lucky that you have blessed me with any of your time.”
“Colin,” she said, her voice soft and breathy. “What am I to do with you?”
“Anything you want.”
Chapter 28 – kiss
Chapter 29 – kisses
Chapter 31 - kiss


Total chapters: 32 and an epilogue


Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs


Full break down on what my ratings above mean here:
Overall: How I felt about it everything considered!
Readability: How ‘readable’ was the book? Did I fly through it? Did I have to tell myself to pick it back up repeatedly? Were any passages confusing? (I will probably score like (1) is literally unreadable due to formatting/typing errors, etc (2) There were lots of errors that made it difficult to read OR It was extremely confusing and I had to reread passages to make sense of it OR I disliked it so much I had to bribe myself to keep reading (3) I didn’t really want to keep reading and would have preferred to abandon the read and start something else OR some minor continuity issues/confusion (4) I liked it fine, maybe a minor error or 2. I was happy to pick it up when I had time. (5) I never wanted to put this down. I thought about it when I wasn’t reading it. I hid in the bathroom from my kids to read. I threw inappropriate food at my children for dinner so I could read instead.)
Feels: Totally subjective to each person but did the book give me any tingles? Any butterflies? Did it rip my heart out (in a good way?)
Emotional depth: How well do I feel I know the characters at the end? How much did I feel their emotions throughout the story?
Sexual tension: Again, subjective, but how strong was the wanting and longing to me between the characters? A book might have strong sexual tension without a single touch.
Romance: Was there romance? Did romantic things happen? This can be actions/words/thoughts of the characters and again is subjective.
Sensuality: This is how the intimate scenes are written. Kisses and sexual scenes – how sensual were they? Were they on the mechanical side? Was there emotional pull tied in? Were the details explicit or flowery? These are subjective but generally (1) too short to get a good judgment (2) not all what I'm looking for - very vague or flowery prose (3) either not explicit enough or not enough emotional pull (too mechanical/physically descriptive without the emotions) (4) what I love in a scene (5) absolute perfection - perfect balance of emotional longing and explicit descriptions
Sex Scene Length: How long the bedroom scenes are (generally (1) is 1-3 sentences (2) is a few paragraphs to a page-ish (3) is about average, a few pages (4) more well developed scenes, quite a few pages with descriptions (5) the majority of the book takes place in the bedroom. This is always hard to tell for me on audio!
Steam Scale: Generally, each flame is a scene. If scenes are super close together I sometimes combine them. If a scene is super short or so vague I don’t know what’s happening, I don’t count it. There’s some levels of grey but generally the number of flames is how many sex scenes there are (I max out at 5 so I’ll put a + after if there’s more than that)


Find me
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Book Clubs
The Ton and the Tartans (Historical Romance)
Upturned Petticoats and Undone Cravats (Historical Romance with Steam Requirements)
A Love Less Ordinary (Science Fiction, Paranormal, Monster, Fantasy)
Modern Manuscripts (Contemporary Romance)
Words for the Wicked (Contemporary Romance with Steam Requirements)
Vintage Romance (Old School Romance – published 2000 and prior)

[KelseyreadsHR · Rating 4 out of 5]

Victorian sports romance and fraud

A Victorian sports romance, yes please! I’ve been eyeballing this book for a while and really enjoyed it.

I loved the dynamic of the sports team where the players are all part of the working or trade class where they’re not supposed to be paid to play. Although Colin secretly does but I ignored that because he needs to take care of his mom and sisters.

Lily is the daughter of a viscount, mill owner, and main sponsor of the football (soccer) club. Between class difference and conflict of interest there’s plenty standing in their way. Add in a bookkeeping and fraud plot, this was right up my alley.

I enjoyed all the twists and turns as it kept me guessing how they’d get to their HEA in the end.

Lady and the Footballer is the first book in the Scandals and Scores series.

This is a new to me author.

There are three open door encounters. Lower on the spice scales, descriptive but not explicit.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll be honest and say I was skeptical about this story because I'm not a fan of sports however the way Ellie did this story.. I wasn't able to stop reading it until I finished it which was an all night binge read..

While the mention of football is in the storyline it's not overwhelming to the point where if you aren't a fan of sports you will dose off..

This story is definitely unique and refreshing, she's a lady and he is a footballer/millworker but there's someone trying to harm the club and the mill that they both care about so they work with each to figure out what is going on along the way despite the fact they shouldn't they fall in love with each other.. and they will do anything to be together..

I can't wait to read the rest of this series..

I received this book from the author as an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest voluntary review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no else.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Lily Evans never expected to find purpose in her father’s textile mill—let alone in a working-class footballer. But when sabotage threatens the family business and football club, she teams up with the infuriatingly handsome Colin Thornton to uncover the truth. Colin has no time for nobles but with his team’s future and his family’s survival on the line, he needs Lily’s sharp wit as much as she needs his grit. As they race to stop a saboteur, sparks fly—and so do the rules of society.
The first book in a new series & another very well written romance. It was different, I don’t think I’ve read a historical romance which featured a football team. There was intrigue, skulduggery, twists & turns & sizzling chemistry. I loved both Colin & Lily & loved their journey to a HEA. He’s fiercely protective of those he loves, as well as honest, hardworking & intelligent. Lily is no simpering miss but intelligent & willing to fight for who she loves. They made a formidable couple. I look forward to the rest of the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I absolutely adored The Lady and the Footballer by Ellie St. Claire! As the first book in the series, it sets a remarkable foundation with its exciting characters who are both relatable and compelling. The chemistry between the protagonists kept me engrossed from start to finish.

The plot is excellently crafted, maintaining a steady pace that never feels rushed or dragging. Every twist and heartfelt moment is perfectly timed, making it impossible to put the book down. The setting is vividly described, transporting readers right into the heart of the story’s world, adding depth and charm to the narrative.

Ellie St. Claire's writing style is captivating, blending romance, drama, and character development seamlessly. I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series. Highly recommended to anyone who loves a well-paced, engaging romance with memorable characters!

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my 43rd book by Ellie St. Clair. I picked up 1 book in late 2017, then 2 more in 2018 and then not again until May 2022. She is quickly becoming a favorite. I'm glad to see a new series out. I'm a Regency snob so hope this doesn't read too modern.

I'm not sure how I feel about this book. I mean, I liked it in a weird way because it is totally out of my normal read in both trope and genre. I liked Lily and Colin. They had great personalities. It was a good storyline. Just different for me. I will read book 2 though. Like I said, it was good just very different for me. :)

[Diana]

Light-hearted romance mixed in with mystery and reform.

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book! I enjoyed the forward-thinking dynamics of this family (or at least, her father) in allowing Lily to do something more than usual. Lily and Colin’s story is unusual and Lily is quite the woman!

I received a free copy of this book from the author. The thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kendall Hoxsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love historical romance and soccer/football! So this was right up my alley! I really enjoyed the characterization of Lily the FMC and how she wasn't a typical poor little rich girl. She had more depth to her which was very refreshing. Also the MMC, Colin, was delicious. He saw Lily as much more than just physically beautiful. Very excited to read the next Scandals and Scores with Rhys and Emmaline!

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say I almost didn’t read this story as I am the least sport person on the face of the planet! With this story about football, I wasn’t sure what to think. But Ellie is one of my favorite authors and am so glad I did. What a story, Lily is the daughter of a viscount who owns a factory and a football team. She knows what is expected of her from society and her very overwhelming mother. She refuses to marry the man her mother thinks would raise then in the ton and luckily her father agrees with her. The man has a very bad reputation for being mean and nasty. Lily needs a purpose, something that she can do to help. Her father lets her work in his office one day a week. Colin Thornton has no time for spoiled society ladies who come to see the games he plays in. He has given up a lot to support his mother, brothers and sister. Football is his passion the one thing he does for himself. Then he almost ruins everything my hitting the owner’s daughter with a ball at one of the games. He also works in the man’s factory too. Lily and Colin have a rough start as neither like the other. But neither can’t stop thinking about the other either! There attraction is great to watch. As they are forced to spend time together, both are drawn into problems and sabotage in the team and factory. There are tons of secrets, misinformation, danger, suspense and of course desire and passion too. I even liked all the information on football included in the story. I can’t wait for the next book. This is going to prove to be a great, different series am sure. So, rush and get your copy and get stated to see what happens to our couple. With society rules, class differences and villains too this is quite the read. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a unique storyline. It started out a little slow, then I became so engaged in the story it was hard to put down. I was torn between wanting to know the outcome and seeing how it would end. But, another part of me wanted to savor it and make it last.

Great main and secondary characters. Some of the villains you know right away but it is still a great whodunit. Story filled with suspense, twists, intrigue, great main and secondary characters.

Our h takes some chances that could ruin her reputation, but her heart was in the right place. I liked how they fought their attraction but lost out because they were so good together. Both MC are loving and caring for those in their orbit.

Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 3 out of 5. For me was filled with passion because I felt a connection to them.

Great teaser at the end for the next story, which I can't wait for. This story ends at 94% on my e-reader, rest is the teaser.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, unique, romantic and tad of steam. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase.

I received an ARC and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily Evans never expected to find purpose in the smoky halls of her father’s textile mill, much less among the muddy boots and bruises of his working-class football club. As daughter of Viscount Harcourt, she’s no stranger to the expectations of the ton, but it’s Colin Thornton, the club’s blunt, fiercely loyal striker, who awakens her sense of belonging and sparks a fire she can’t ignore.

When sabotage threatens the future of both mill and team, Lily and Colin must trust each other across the chasm of class. He’s all grit and honor; she’s quick-witted and unafraid to break convention. Together, they form an unlikely alliance; one teeming with danger, slow-burning attraction, and just enough scandal to make society sweat.

This vibrant series debut delivers something rare: a historical romance where cleats meet cravats and the heart’s the real battleground. With passion, twists, and a hero you'll fall hard for, it’s a top-of-the-table triumph. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do a Lady and a Footballer Stand a Chance?
He worked in her father’s mill and played for her father’s football team. She’s a lady; he’s a commoner. Her father would never approve.
When Lily steps in to help with the mill’s bookkeeping, she spots discrepancies that don’t make sense. Then the “accidents” start—first at the mill, then involving the team. Suddenly Lily and Colin are drawn into a mystery neither of them can ignore. And the deeper they dig, the closer they become.
There’s treachery in the shadows and danger on all sides, and the two of them get swept straight into the chaos. What exactly is going on behind the scenes? And with class standing between them, can a lady and a footballer really hope for a future together?
The story starts on the slow side, but before I realized it, I was completely wrapped up in the intrigue and the growing connection between Lily and Colin. If you enjoy Victorian romance threaded with mystery and suspense, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Karen Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unusual cast of characters. It's too late to be a "Regency Romance" since football wasn't started in England until 1863, but it still deals with the aristocratic system. In this story, the "lower class" who fell for the Viscount's daughter wasn't a servant, or a stable boy, or the valet, but a handsome man who worked at the father's mill and played on his newly formed football team. The addition of the sport added to the mystery and suspense plot, which included attempts to destroy both the team and the football star, and destroy the relationship that was building between him and the Viscount's daughter. And, of course, the threat of an "arranged marriage," to a jerk. I found this book interesting and enjoyable enough to give it 5 stars.

[Annette Drewett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This seems to be an awesome start to another winning series by Ms St Clair. The characters are believable, and the storyline is very well written. I found my interest captured from the very first chapter. This book has suspense, intrigue, drama and a few twists which will keep the reader turning the pages to find out what will happen next. Lily and Colin make a wonderful couple, and I enjoyed following their romantic journey throughout the story. Take a chance on this one.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[NelleRenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a unique story with the FMC being a viscount’s daughter and the MMC being a millworker and football player. They team up as a villain is trying to sabotage the factory and also the football team. It had enough intrigue to keep me interested. I thought the secondary characters were good additions.

[J P · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the unique plot (at least I’ve never read one like this before). It was fascinating to read about the beginnings of football (soccer), and I loved how the romance between Lily and Colin began.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun story! The story is very interesting with lots of action. It's fast moving with lots of twists. Lily is a wonderful character who sees beyond status. Colin cares so much for his family and puts them before all else. But oh is Lily a temptation for him!