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Crossing the Lines for Love

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Niko Kemper always did things his way. Years ago, he turned down a full scholarship to play lacrosse and enlisted in the Navy instead, shocking his parents and hometown. If that wasn’t enough, after serving the country for four years, he returned home with full custody of his one-year-old son, who no one knew existed.

Now, in his senior year of college and final year as the captain of the lacrosse team, something happened that Niko didn’t expect, and it was the catalyst to a chain of events he never imagined.

In the fourth grade, Aranda ‘Randi’ Sampson fell in love with lacrosse, and it quickly took over her life. After a successful college career, she was set to move on to the next level until an injury forced her to put the sticks down.

After a few months of wallowing in self-pity, Aranda was determined to find a way to keep lacrosse in her life. She applied for a coaching position at her alma mater, Black Elm University, and was offered a job she considered the opportunity of a lifetime.

From their first meeting, sparks flew, but not in a good way. However, with each encounter, the sexual tension between them increased. Lines are crossed, but one has much more to lose than the other.

Will the love they share be worth the risk?

150 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 12, 2025

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About the author

Kay Shanee

77 books611 followers
Welcome to Kay Shanee's Reading Korner
Kay is forty something wife and mother, born and raised in the Midwest. During the day, she is a high school teacher. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Her favorite pastime is reading and writing romance novels about the dopeness of BLACK LOVE.

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5 stars
316 (70%)
4 stars
95 (21%)
3 stars
31 (6%)
2 stars
4 (<1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,772 reviews121 followers
June 15, 2025
Niko was one to walk to the beat of his own drum, and everyone had to follow his lead. After returning from the Navy with a huge surprise, his parents almost lost it. As always Niko had a plan. He would attend college and join the Lacrosse team, with his parents help of course. While out one evening, he accidentally bumps into a woman who gives him a less than pleasant response. However, she is beautiful, and he wants to shoot his shot.

What a surprise when they both learn of the other in a professional setting. Niko undeterred still goes after what he wants and assumes the risk. Aranda tried to stand firm, but Niko had her caving in no time. She knew the risks of what she was doing, but sometimes when feelings are so strong, logic goes out of the window. This could have gone south but thank God for Coach Crawford. Enjoyed!
Profile Image for Annette Williams.
1,262 reviews473 followers
June 17, 2025
Niko really was ready to risk it all. His position on the Black Elm University Lacrosse Team and Randi’s job as the assistant coach. I didn’t like this dude. He was too wreckless and didn't care how it would effect Randi. No matter how many times she warned him they needed to move in silence so no one would find out about their relationship, he just kept pushin’ the boundaries. They were being reckless and havin’ sex at his job. Niko switched up on Randi and wanted her to meet his son after they'd already agreed she wouldn’t meet him until after he graduated. Then, he wanted to tell their parents about their “secret” relationship that wasn't really a secret. Niko was all over the place like an emotional azz female. And, Randi was no better. She let Niko bulldoze all over her and throw every rule they agreed to right out window like she didn’t have the most to lose. Chanice showing’ up at the end of the book felt like an unnecessary third act breakup. She honestly could’ve been left out of the storyline altogether. Crossing the Lines for Love was a miss for me. I wasn’t a huge fan of the characters and it felt like something was missing.
Profile Image for *Ebony I*.
1,533 reviews184 followers
March 13, 2026
Risky love

I appreciate that this was about a lesser known sport. I have definitely never read a story about Lacrosse 🥍. I don't think I learned much about the sport, but I gained knowledge about how tedious the season was.

After an injury changed her life Aranda is trying to find a new path in life. It leads to coaching and helping the next generation of Lacrosse athletes.
Niko happens to be one of her players on her new team and the connection between them is so strong that Aranda tries her best to avoid him. Lines are crossed and Niko could care less about the consequences. They were reckless and willing to risk everything that they built.

I liked the idea of the story, but I didn't like the time leaps that just left out so much. I wanted to experience them as a family and not a recap. I also didn't like the use of the N word, yes it's used in plenty of stories, but it felt forced and just didn't fit into the flow of the story. The BM story line just felt pointless.

Overall an okay read.

Profile Image for 'The Book Queen'.
6,325 reviews137 followers
June 14, 2025
I really enjoyed this addition to the story. It was Uber good.
1,222 reviews8 followers
June 16, 2025
Crossing the lines for love

I enjoyed this sports romance from beginning to end. Niko and Aranda had good chemistry once they hooked up and got past her animosity toward him after their first couple of run ins, but Niko wasn’t deterred and was determined to get his girl. Their relationship was a bit taboo but they seemed to handle it well and it all worked out for them.

The situation with Niko’s son’s egg donor was crazy. She had some serious audacity all around and I was glad to see Niko’s parents have his back when she made her true reasons known for suddenly wanting a relationship with his son.

3.75/5 stars
Profile Image for Ebony | whatebonyreads.
196 reviews19 followers
June 14, 2025
They both loved lacrosse, but as a coach and player, there are certain lines that shouldn’t be crossed. However, in the game of love, that's easier said than done.

Niko said Randi was it and he applied all the pressure even tho they had to take certain precautions because of their roles. I love how this story came full circle for Randi after tragedy and what she thought was the end of life as she knew it. Romance girlies need to tap in. This is a good one.
Profile Image for Mayas.
2,688 reviews50 followers
June 15, 2025
Cute read

This book was cute, and I devoured it in one sitting. The best part for me is the way the parents intervened and had them remove their rose colored glasses.

I am happy they got back to each other in the end, though.
162 reviews
June 21, 2025
forbidden and destined

Kay Shanee never fails and this book was perfection. The two main characters’ love story was passionate, fun, and life changing. It was also dope to learn about a sport that I don’t watch while getting my dose of Black love.
Profile Image for Natoi.
250 reviews
June 14, 2025
Score!!!

Niko & Randi made me want to watch a lacrosse game! They were hot & sexy and that secret love was right on time.
Profile Image for SheKea Lindsay.
35 reviews
June 21, 2025
Kay has done it once again!

I’ve been saying this for a while Kay Shanee is a beast with sports romances! Don’t get me wrong I love all her work but something about her sports romances that get me every single time. 5 stars once again
599 reviews
June 16, 2025
Forbidden Love

Such a cute story. It’s defining a quick read and will give you all the feels!!! I loved it. Moves fast and it’s steamy!!

Definitely get into this series. These ladies are knocking it out.
Profile Image for Readwithchan_.
Author 3 books44 followers
April 12, 2026
Crossing the Line for Love by @authorkayshanee was messy, forbidden, and completely addictive from beginning to end. This wasn’t just a love story… this was the kind of love that had careers on the line, reputations at risk, and emotions running way too deep to turn back 😮‍💨

From the moment Randi and Niko crossed paths, the tension was already there. But when they realized exactly who they were to each other, I knew this situation was about to spiral. And baby… it spiraled QUICK. They both knew the relationship was dangerous, but the chemistry between them made it almost impossible to stay away.

What made this story so juicy was how Niko wasn’t backing down at all. He wanted Randi and made it clear he was willing to risk everything even when she was trying to keep her distance. Meanwhile, Randi was stuck between doing what was right and following her heart… and watching her slowly give in had me like girl… you playing with FIRE 🔥

And just when I thought the forbidden romance was messy enough… the outside drama stepped in. Between family opinions, pressure from others, and unexpected complications popping up, things started getting real complicated real fast. The situation had me stressed because one wrong move could ruin EVERYTHING.

What I loved most was how real it felt. They weren’t just falling in love they were making risky decisions, hiding feelings, sneaking around, and hoping they wouldn’t get caught. And the more they tried to fight it, the deeper they fell.

There were moments I was rooting for them hard… then moments I was like yeah… this might not end well 😩 because the stakes were just that high.

This book delivered:
• Forbidden romance 👀
• Intense chemistry 🔥
• Risky decisions 😮‍💨
• Outside drama & pressure 😬
• Emotional tension from start to finish ❤️‍🔥

Kay Shanee did an amazing job making this story feel intense, emotional, and impossible to put down. I finished this wanting more and still thinking about how far people will really go when they’re in love.

Because when it came to Randi and Niko…
They didn’t just blur the line…

They crossed it.
Profile Image for Jenae.
197 reviews5 followers
June 19, 2025
Aside from there not really being any pining or anything tangible that was romantic there are a few reasons this fell flat for me. 1. the MMC was quite unlikable in his decision making. This is the second book I’ve read by this author where the MMC forced a character to have a kid. The first book the FMC was adamant about not wanting kids and was basically bullied into changing her stance and in this one Chanice had a kid that she didn’t want and forever reason she is made to have the kid and then come back in a convoluted attempt to make her a villain. boo I say…BOO! Sometimes the authors beliefs bleed into their work and I can’t help but think if women having kids they don’t want to turn around and “want” them is a belief the author holds. Either way it’s gross. 2. I didn’t see if Niko needed to play sports for scholarship, which shouldn’t have been the case, or what was going on but coaching would have been a much better transition than playing…it was off putting like bro you are a grown ass man get a full time job and don’t pmo. chanice definitely ate with that 🤣. 3. They literally didn’t do anything but have sex…like Randi was literally hot in the ass more than anything and next thing you know it’s I love you…:/ why tho. And lastly gay/bi men aren’t accessories and I hate that Montrell was written as such.
Profile Image for Lisareadsromance.
858 reviews25 followers
June 19, 2025
Ok this one was an interesting read; I didn't expect it to turn out like it did. I will say that I was not a big fan of the MMC. Niko's parents and Aranda's parents really had him pegged. Cause even after they got together and she told him they should wait until after he graduated to announce it and introduce her to his family and his kid, they n*gga was selfish AF with putting her in a situation that sped up the timeline. Like dude are we not thinking about how this can affect her in the long run. It ain't just about you that really was pissing me off. However, I will say Aranda wasn't any better, I didn't like that she just let him bulldoze into her life, it really was annoying, like she just let him do, like she was weak, and I knew that was a far cry from the situation. All in all, the premise was good, I just didn't vibe with the characters...it def felt like something was missing.

P.S: Niko baby mama, she was dead wrong for the stunt that she tried to pull but Niko was also wrong for what he did when she didn't want to be a mother, and he was well aware.
Profile Image for NubianJoí .
2,650 reviews14 followers
July 9, 2025
Impulsive

We’re in the home stretch book eight of the ten installments in the BLP Sports Series. However, “Crossing The Lines for Love…- Book 8” was boring, juvenile, superficial & impulsive 🤷🏾‍♀️‼️Like Author Kay Shanee, I know absolutely nothing about the sport Lacrosse. …Ummm, some basis trivia, the five “W’s”of Lacrosse, scoring etc. or anything with relevant context to engage readers like myself. Unfortunately, this platform was the golden opportunity to inform, educate & or remind readers why Randi & Niko were so passionate at Lacrosse about and ultimately their infatuation for each other enough to covertly risk game full employment, career stability, respect among colleagues, season forfeitures, expulsion, reputations & integrity. I guess all’s well that ends well. Hmm 🤨, if you say so🤦🏾‍♀️‼️
Profile Image for V. Rena.
1,681 reviews15 followers
September 19, 2025
Taboo relationship but their love was not

I enjoyed this taboo story between Niko and Arandi. Fate had them crossing paths before they crossed lines. Niko might have been selfish but he was not when it came to her and their relationships. He was all in and made things happen for them to be discrete and enjoy each other. She was on the same wavelength until people got into her head. I love that Niko honored her request but Randi couldn't handle it. Don't ask for something you really don't want and don't be mad when the person gives you what you asked for. Now, Niko's son knew genuineness when he felt it because he experienced it and felt it. I love how love found them and created magic. Their relationship might have been taboo but their love was not. It was definitely worth crossing the line for.
Profile Image for Ruby.
753 reviews2 followers
June 29, 2025
Niko and Randi!!

I really enjoyed reading this cute story with Niko and Randi. I loved how Niko was the first to fall in love and how he applied pressure to get his woman. Randi was willing to risk it all having a relationship with Niko. Their relationship was just what they needed to better their lives. They did what they needed to do to make it work. I fell in love with little Deuce. He was such a cutie-pie. His mother, Chanice, was too trifling for words. The family coming together and handling her and protecting Deuce was everything. I would love to see Randi's bestie, Trell, find love as well. This was such a well-written book with emotions, chemistry and passion. Great job!!
Profile Image for Melise.
558 reviews84 followers
June 15, 2025
2 stars – For fans of taboo setups, but the delivery was flat.

This one missed the mark for me. Niko was dense and inconsiderate (even his parents knew it), and Aranda was a certified horny bird—no shade, just facts.

The “deadbeat mom” arc with Chanice felt forced. She clearly didn’t want the baby, and while her reasoning was selfish, the story painted her as the villain while Niko got a pass for insisting on the pregnancy then turning around to say he didn’t even like her outside of sex. Like if that’s the case why would you want her to keep a baby??

The taboo angle had potential, but the story lacked emotional depth and ended up feeling more bland than bold
Profile Image for Helen Clark.
1,125 reviews5 followers
July 19, 2025
Risky Love

You flipped the script on this story. Gender doesn't make you a better parent and I loved how you allow that myth to be seen.

Its amazing how selfish people are and they would do anything to save face and they get devious and destructive with their actions.

A lesson learned is we never know in which direction our lives may take a turn. Know that things are already in place for the next faze of of our lives.

The magnetic pulled they had was undeniable and I'm happy they got their happy ending.

Magnificent story!
Profile Image for Denise Newman.
395 reviews
June 19, 2025
Excellent!!

Book 8 of the BLP Sports Series was an excellent read. Kay did an outstanding job writing this love story. It was the perfect blend of love and drama.

Niko and Arandi’s love story was definitely love at first sight/argument. He definitely fell in love first but she wasn’t that far behind even with everything she could lose.

If you love forbidden love and sports romance, I definitely recommend reading this book.
1,330 reviews10 followers
July 2, 2025
Thanks for providing a story that portrayed a strong man and woman in roles that we dont typically see. Niko a.single.father and Aranda coaching male lacrosse
Niko didn't care what it took. He was going to be with Aranda by any means necessary, including crossing the line!

Both Niko and Aranda were in unconventional roles, but they worked for both of them. The families were very supportive and spoke their truths when it came to their son and daughter.

I loved the epilogue!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
67 reviews
September 7, 2025
Slow start, but ended great

I do not know anything about Lacrosse, but I ended up loving the story. So many times in life women take risks for men, and most of the time, we lose. It was great seeing how the risk she took was worth it because Bill was a stand up guy. It gives hope for those of us still searching for the one worth the risk. I will explore your other stories to become a fan of your work
Profile Image for Ayana.
107 reviews
May 12, 2026
OMG!!! Did they cross the line?? Heck what line, it had been erased as they fell deep for each other. Everything worked out for Niko & Randi, their love was too strong to stay away. Coach Crawford gave Randi the advice and assurance she needed to get back on track to loving her man.

Deuce’s incubator would have gotten punched; I was like wth!! Niko’s mom & dad gave her a good read and Niko did right to get a lawyer.

Cute story and enjoyed it.
1,229 reviews4 followers
July 18, 2025
Amazing Read

Niko knew what he wanted and went after it. Randi wasn't intended to allow a fine man to jeopardize her career. The two of them managed to keep things quiet until they couldn't. Their love and chemistry was too strong. Chanice was the definition of a deadbeat mother! Deuce was blessed to not have her. Great read!
Profile Image for Author Jen Elle.
336 reviews1 follower
September 8, 2025
So good

When you feel it, you feel it. No matter the risks, something pulls you in and it's too hard to let go. I loved every bit of this book. Aranda was stubborn but Niko ain't care nothing about that. He knew what he wanted and he went after it. The side story involved was crazy and I'm glad things played out how it did. I enjoyed this read.
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,170 reviews13 followers
September 18, 2025
Cute story! Love won

Aranda suffered a career ending injury but was fortunate enough together zn Asst. Coaching position at her Alma Mater with the men's LaCrosse team. Niko was smitten at first sight and when she became his coach not much changed. He pursued her until he finally won her heart. In the end love won.
Profile Image for KweenBee.
336 reviews6 followers
January 7, 2026
Decent Read- Cute Ending

Initially the book didn't suck me - the writing felt a little awkward and the female character was a bit rude for my liking. But I stuck with it and it was Niko who won me over and kept engaged. The spiciness also helped out and the ending was cute too. It was a decent read.
Profile Image for Patrice Latimore.
741 reviews
March 22, 2026
Love crosses many lines

Niko was no about to let anything come in between him and his happiness. Although it seemed selfish he knew what he wanted in life and went for it. Randi was straddling the fence of happiness and making others content. In the end they found their own little happiness with each other. Go read it.
555 reviews
June 22, 2025
4.5
Niko and Aranda (Randi) were a great match even though their first encounters were not ideal. Chanice was a piece of work with how she handled Deuce and her business. The appearances from Deuce were adorable especially when he told Randi not to cry.
11 reviews
June 23, 2025
Simply Beautiful

This Love Story was so Beautiful. I don’t know why but this has that Jon B They Don’t Know R&B Type of Love feeling. Also I loved that both parents were still together and Happy!! Great Job Mrs. Kay Shanee!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews