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Alive and Kicking
Rachel Cramer prefers quiet nights, familiar routines, and absolutely no surprises. But when her adventurous sister Richie dies far too young, she leaves Rachel a parting a bucket list of all the things she never got to do—and a gentle nudge from beyond to start living boldly. Tasked with honoring her sister’s wishes, Rachel finds herself juggling her not-so-glamorous job at her grandparents' sewage pump company (yes, really) and an unexpectedly viral social media presence that has the internet flushing with laughter.
Enter TJ Doyle, midfielder for the Boston Buzzards and professional life avoider. Off the field, TJ is lost—adrift in endless scrolling, shallow content, and a growing sense that something’s missing. He’s not sure what he’s searching for, but he knows it’s not more of the same.
Number 8 on Richie’s list? Meet TJ Doyle. And when their paths collide, Rachel and TJ—polar opposites on paper—begin to challenge each other in all the right ways. As they stumble toward connection, healing, and maybe even love, they’ll discover that sometimes, the best goals in life aren’t the ones you plan.
Enter TJ Doyle, midfielder for the Boston Buzzards and professional life avoider. Off the field, TJ is lost—adrift in endless scrolling, shallow content, and a growing sense that something’s missing. He’s not sure what he’s searching for, but he knows it’s not more of the same.
Number 8 on Richie’s list? Meet TJ Doyle. And when their paths collide, Rachel and TJ—polar opposites on paper—begin to challenge each other in all the right ways. As they stumble toward connection, healing, and maybe even love, they’ll discover that sometimes, the best goals in life aren’t the ones you plan.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2025
3 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn R. Biel
27 books374 followersKathryn R. Biel writes low-to-no spice contemporary romance, rom-com, sports romance, and women’s fiction full of humor, heart, and happily-ever-afters. Her books balance the drama and challenges of real life with witty banter, strong heroines, and swoony cinnamon-roll heroes. Whether she’s writing laugh-out-loud romantic comedies, emotional women’s fiction, or heartfelt sports romances, Kathryn delivers stories where resilience, love, and laughter take center stage.
Kathryn is the author of more than 20 books, including the award-winning Live for This, Made for Me, and The UnBRCAble Women Series (Ready for Whatever, Seize the Day, and Underneath It All).
Kathryn is the author of more than 20 books, including the award-winning Live for This, Made for Me, and The UnBRCAble Women Series (Ready for Whatever, Seize the Day, and Underneath It All).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 9, 2025
This was my second ARC and the fourth book I’ve read from Kathryn Biel, and once again I was hooked right from the start—I finished it in just three days!
What I love most is how the author doesn’t shy away from tough issues but writes them in a way that feels so authentic and relatable. I don’t usually read soccer romances, but this one completely won me over (and even made me want to rewatch Ted Lasso).
The friendship, the slow-burn attraction, and the humor kept me turning the pages, but what stood out most was the personal growth each character experienced. Their journeys felt genuine and heartfelt, and I loved how their connection encouraged them to step outside of their comfort zones.
Overall, this was such a fun, engaging read and a great addition to the series!
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
What I love most is how the author doesn’t shy away from tough issues but writes them in a way that feels so authentic and relatable. I don’t usually read soccer romances, but this one completely won me over (and even made me want to rewatch Ted Lasso).
The friendship, the slow-burn attraction, and the humor kept me turning the pages, but what stood out most was the personal growth each character experienced. Their journeys felt genuine and heartfelt, and I loved how their connection encouraged them to step outside of their comfort zones.
Overall, this was such a fun, engaging read and a great addition to the series!
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
October 25, 2025
Sometimes you need a good romance story to get lost into. Alive and Kicking, the fourth book in the Boston Buzzards series, by Kathryn R Biel is that and so much more !!!
In Alive in Kicking readers are introduced to Rachel and TJ (Tyler to his family and friends). Rachel is trying to deal with the lose of her sister Richie. Richie was her best friend and made life better, now without her she is completely lost. Richie knew that it would be hard for Rachel to move on so at the six month anniversary of her death, she has their grandmother give Rachel a letter. In this letter she gives her a bucket list, ten things she wants Rachel to do.
One of the things on the list is to met TJ Doyle who is a soccer player for the Boston Buzzards. So she gets tickets to a charity event that he is participating in.
TJ has always played soccer, that is his life. He doesn't know what he will do when he is unable to do it anymore. And that is weighing heavy on his mind. So when he meets Rachel and falls for her, he knows that he has to step back. He doesn't think that he can be more than a friend to her.
Rachel is also facing a lot of obstacles in her life and falling for TJ isn't something that she thinks she can handle.
Readers will love reading Alive and Kicking and getting to know Rachel and TJ. And Biel does it beautifully by providing chapters with each characters viewpoint of the story. You really get to know them individually as well as together .... and you will LOVE it !!!!
In Alive in Kicking readers are introduced to Rachel and TJ (Tyler to his family and friends). Rachel is trying to deal with the lose of her sister Richie. Richie was her best friend and made life better, now without her she is completely lost. Richie knew that it would be hard for Rachel to move on so at the six month anniversary of her death, she has their grandmother give Rachel a letter. In this letter she gives her a bucket list, ten things she wants Rachel to do.
One of the things on the list is to met TJ Doyle who is a soccer player for the Boston Buzzards. So she gets tickets to a charity event that he is participating in.
TJ has always played soccer, that is his life. He doesn't know what he will do when he is unable to do it anymore. And that is weighing heavy on his mind. So when he meets Rachel and falls for her, he knows that he has to step back. He doesn't think that he can be more than a friend to her.
Rachel is also facing a lot of obstacles in her life and falling for TJ isn't something that she thinks she can handle.
Readers will love reading Alive and Kicking and getting to know Rachel and TJ. And Biel does it beautifully by providing chapters with each characters viewpoint of the story. You really get to know them individually as well as together .... and you will LOVE it !!!!
October 27, 2025
Synopsis:
After her sister’s death, Rachel Cramer is left with a bucket list of bold dreams to fulfill. Along the way, she crosses paths with TJ Doyle, a pro soccer player searching for purpose. Together, they just might help each other find the courage to start living again.
My Thoughts:
Alive and Kicking is a sweet, feel-good romance about grief, growth, and second chances. Rachel’s journey is heartfelt, TJ is easy to root for, and the “bucket list” twist adds both humor and heart.
📚Final Verdict:
I really enjoyed watching both TJ and Rachel challenge and grow beyond their own self-perceptions. This is the third book I’ve read in the series, and I love how familiar faces from the previous stories make cameo appearances.
If you’re looking for a fun soccer romance that still tackles deeper issues, definitely add this one to your TBR.
Thank you to the author for a copy before it was released.
After her sister’s death, Rachel Cramer is left with a bucket list of bold dreams to fulfill. Along the way, she crosses paths with TJ Doyle, a pro soccer player searching for purpose. Together, they just might help each other find the courage to start living again.
My Thoughts:
Alive and Kicking is a sweet, feel-good romance about grief, growth, and second chances. Rachel’s journey is heartfelt, TJ is easy to root for, and the “bucket list” twist adds both humor and heart.
📚Final Verdict:
I really enjoyed watching both TJ and Rachel challenge and grow beyond their own self-perceptions. This is the third book I’ve read in the series, and I love how familiar faces from the previous stories make cameo appearances.
If you’re looking for a fun soccer romance that still tackles deeper issues, definitely add this one to your TBR.
Thank you to the author for a copy before it was released.
October 28, 2025
The character growth in this book was amazing! Rachel and Tyler both grew so much, for themselves and each other. I had so many emotions while reading this book! The longing and angst was very well done! Read this book, you won’t be disappointed!!
October 27, 2025
Alive and Kicking is a great addition to the Boston Buzzards series! The story line was a great concept of completing a bucket list of adventures in honor of her sister’s death. While there is talk of death and loss the story wasn’t dark and depressing. Yet another great story by the author!
October 20, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Alive and Kicking. This book is a heartfelt and hilarious journey of self-discovery, proving that the most profound life changes often come when you least expect—or want—them. Blending sharp wit with genuine emotion, this book is a must-read for anyone who has ever needed a nudge (or a full-blown shove) out of their comfort zone. Definitely add to you TBR!
October 18, 2025
I recently finished reading the latest book in the Boston Buzzards series by Kathryn R. Biel, and it has quickly become my favorite. Despite starting with a death, the adventure that unfolds is truly captivating.
The story centers around Rachel, whose sister, Richie, passed away and left her a "Live Like You're Dying" to-do list. Rachel, who works for her grandparents' septic tank and grinding operation, finds herself on a journey of self-discovery. Interestingly, she also found success during the pandemic creating popular "ClikClaks."
We are introduced to TJ, a professional soccer player who also creates viral "ClikClaks." He's a self-deprecating character who, as we discover, is far smarter than he gives himself credit for. Rachel meets TJ while fulfilling one of Richie's tasks, and their connection blossoms as they help each other and complete her list.
I particularly related to Rachel's love for books, a sentiment I share as a lifelong reader. As an avid reader I have always had a book on hand to read no matter where I am. The Kindle app helps make this much easier. The humor, flirting, and serious undertones of the story, combined with the well-developed characters, made this an incredibly enjoyable read. It was also great to revisit characters from the previous books in the series.
I laughed. I cried. I had a good time.
I highly recommend this series and eagerly await more books from Ms. Biel!
The story centers around Rachel, whose sister, Richie, passed away and left her a "Live Like You're Dying" to-do list. Rachel, who works for her grandparents' septic tank and grinding operation, finds herself on a journey of self-discovery. Interestingly, she also found success during the pandemic creating popular "ClikClaks."
We are introduced to TJ, a professional soccer player who also creates viral "ClikClaks." He's a self-deprecating character who, as we discover, is far smarter than he gives himself credit for. Rachel meets TJ while fulfilling one of Richie's tasks, and their connection blossoms as they help each other and complete her list.
I particularly related to Rachel's love for books, a sentiment I share as a lifelong reader. As an avid reader I have always had a book on hand to read no matter where I am. The Kindle app helps make this much easier. The humor, flirting, and serious undertones of the story, combined with the well-developed characters, made this an incredibly enjoyable read. It was also great to revisit characters from the previous books in the series.
I laughed. I cried. I had a good time.
I highly recommend this series and eagerly await more books from Ms. Biel!
October 16, 2025
Super grateful to receive this ARC! This was such a cute soccer romance that tackled some heavy issues but managed to remain lighthearted. Bucket list premise felt very original but there were a few situations that felt implausible which pulled me out of the story a little bit. Overall enjoyable if you’re looking for a sweet sports romance!
October 18, 2025
Bereft Rachel is struggling with her grief when her life is turned upside down by people who she thought should support her. Fulfilling her dead siblings bucket list leads her on an adventure taking her out of her comfortable solitude into life full of new experiences and into the arms of TJ who's struggling with his own identity. I went from giggling over both characters awkward ways to grieving the losses and had tears of happiness in finding their happily ever after.
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October 17, 2025Loved, loved, loved this book. Funny, endearing characters. Couldn’t put it down!
October 31, 2025
Sometimes you need a sweet romance comedy. This book for me definitely hit home as I lost my father to glioblastoma in 2021. I loved the plot of this book and it had me wanting the two main characters to get together so bad. I really connected to the FMC because of the loss of someone close and the challenges of moving on from something like that.
I felt this story was beautifully written and I enjoyed every minute of it. This was also my first soccer romance and I liked that Anxiety was a topic as I suffer from it as well. I will definitely be reading more by this Author.
I felt this story was beautifully written and I enjoyed every minute of it. This was also my first soccer romance and I liked that Anxiety was a topic as I suffer from it as well. I will definitely be reading more by this Author.
September 29, 2025
I am SOBBING and I am IN LOVE.
Biel once again delivers with a grounded narrative about likable but flawed characters, each with their own struggles and strengths. Every single book in the Boston Buzzards series just HITS in a real but also romantic way.
Strangers-to-friends-to-lovers ✔️
Emotionally intelligent, self aware MMC and FMC ✔️
Witty banter ✔️
MMC is Chris Evans (with a beard) look alike ✔️
Implied spice ✔️
They communicate and it’s just *chefs kiss* 🤌🏼 ✔️
MMC and FMC have growth ✔️
Am obsessed, am smitten, am wishing she will write another one 🤞🏼
(I was given an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.)
Biel once again delivers with a grounded narrative about likable but flawed characters, each with their own struggles and strengths. Every single book in the Boston Buzzards series just HITS in a real but also romantic way.
Strangers-to-friends-to-lovers ✔️
Emotionally intelligent, self aware MMC and FMC ✔️
Witty banter ✔️
MMC is Chris Evans (with a beard) look alike ✔️
Implied spice ✔️
They communicate and it’s just *chefs kiss* 🤌🏼 ✔️
MMC and FMC have growth ✔️
Am obsessed, am smitten, am wishing she will write another one 🤞🏼
(I was given an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.)
October 23, 2025
What a great book.
Losing a loved one can be extremely hard, especially someone close to you.
To see them both heal and grow together, healing each other is amazing.
Great romance story.
Losing a loved one can be extremely hard, especially someone close to you.
To see them both heal and grow together, healing each other is amazing.
Great romance story.
Read
October 5, 2025I Love TJ and Rachel together!
October 5, 2025
For a short little soccer romance, it was cute.
September 17, 2025
I’d like to send a thank you to Kathryn R. Biel for this ARC!
I’ve only read a few sports romance books, but I loved this one so much Rachel was a relatable character and I found myself really enjoying her. Just like Rachel, I also enjoyed TJ’s character. The storyline of the book being a sister completing her dead sister’s bucket list was very unique. I was able to fly through this story and fall in love with Rachel and TJ’s story. This was such a nice lighthearted, easy read. Though that grief is one of the main themes in the story, I really like how the author portrayed it. This title is set to be released on October 20th, 2025.
September 27, 2025
ARC review
This is my first sports romance book I've read and I loved it. the author grabs you at the beginning then twists and turns and doesn't stop till the end Theres a list her sister leaves for her that surrounds the story. A well written book.
This is my first sports romance book I've read and I loved it. the author grabs you at the beginning then twists and turns and doesn't stop till the end Theres a list her sister leaves for her that surrounds the story. A well written book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! This entire series is so good! The MMC and the FMC are both very relatable with personal issues and/or trauma they need to overcome and work their way through. And it’s done with some humor mixed it to keep it light.
It’s a closed door/fade-to-black romance, so no need to worry about cringey wording for… certain things 🫣 if you know what I mean 👀🤣
It is the 4th book in the series but it can still be read as a standalone, and while you don’t need to read books 1-3 before reading this one, it just adds a nice touch to the story when you know some of the characters and their background and story.
Overall, highly recommend! This author has a similar style to Emily Henry, so if you enjoy her books then definitely give this one a go!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration, and all opinions are my own.
It’s a closed door/fade-to-black romance, so no need to worry about cringey wording for… certain things 🫣 if you know what I mean 👀🤣
It is the 4th book in the series but it can still be read as a standalone, and while you don’t need to read books 1-3 before reading this one, it just adds a nice touch to the story when you know some of the characters and their background and story.
Overall, highly recommend! This author has a similar style to Emily Henry, so if you enjoy her books then definitely give this one a go!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration, and all opinions are my own.
September 28, 2025
See my full review of this title on my blog: Books Under the Blanket (with a flashlight): https://booksundertheblanket.com/what...
Live on October 12, 2025
Live on October 12, 2025
September 18, 2025
Just finished this amazing book. I love soccer so this was right up my alley. This story has humor and all the feels. I had to wipe my tears so bring the tissues. Great read.
October 21, 2025
I received an ARC of this book, and I will first say that I usually don't read much contemporary romance. However, I had won a copy of Biel's XOXO several years ago and really enjoyed it, so I quickly volunteered to read this one. I wasn't disappointed! I read it over a weekend and pretty much couldn't put it down.
The main character, Rachel, is grieving her sister's recent passing, and is surprised to learn that her sister has given her a bucket list of tasks to accomplish that her sister was never able to do. Rachel's in a bit of a slump, working for the family sewage business and continuing to stay in bed as much as possible as she wallows in self-pity and misery over her sister. One of the tasks on her list, which she has no intention of completing, is to meet a well-known soccer player, T.J. Doyle. She decides to attend an event that might allow her to meet him, and at least do one thing on the list.
T.J. Doyle is a gorgeous soccer player who spends all his time either playing soccer, making videos for social media, or doomscrolling. He's not living life, and he's beginning to wonder just what he'll do with his life when his soccer career is over. Their meeting kicks off a series of events that make both of them aware that something needs to change in their lives. It also makes them very aware of each other!
Despite Rachel's repeated attempts to NOT live her life, the book itself is fast-paced and fun. I love the characters, and what's more, there are a few characters that make an appearance from her XOXO book, so it was nice to get an update on what's going on in their lives, though reading XOXO is not necessary to read and enjoy Alive and Kicking. It was just a perk.
Overall, I totally recommend this book to any and all who like contemporary sports romance, and really to anyone who enjoys an uplifting, fun, and interesting read. I don't even enjoy soccer and I love these books!
The main character, Rachel, is grieving her sister's recent passing, and is surprised to learn that her sister has given her a bucket list of tasks to accomplish that her sister was never able to do. Rachel's in a bit of a slump, working for the family sewage business and continuing to stay in bed as much as possible as she wallows in self-pity and misery over her sister. One of the tasks on her list, which she has no intention of completing, is to meet a well-known soccer player, T.J. Doyle. She decides to attend an event that might allow her to meet him, and at least do one thing on the list.
T.J. Doyle is a gorgeous soccer player who spends all his time either playing soccer, making videos for social media, or doomscrolling. He's not living life, and he's beginning to wonder just what he'll do with his life when his soccer career is over. Their meeting kicks off a series of events that make both of them aware that something needs to change in their lives. It also makes them very aware of each other!
Despite Rachel's repeated attempts to NOT live her life, the book itself is fast-paced and fun. I love the characters, and what's more, there are a few characters that make an appearance from her XOXO book, so it was nice to get an update on what's going on in their lives, though reading XOXO is not necessary to read and enjoy Alive and Kicking. It was just a perk.
Overall, I totally recommend this book to any and all who like contemporary sports romance, and really to anyone who enjoys an uplifting, fun, and interesting read. I don't even enjoy soccer and I love these books!
October 26, 2025
Caution- a few spoilers/hints included
Well-I lucked out for sure! Not only did I get an advanced copy-I was a beta reader! But it was hard to critique when it was just a wonderful story!
Anxiety is no joke and the author really helped us to understand how hard it can be for someone to explain to others how they feel and how hard it is to move outside their comfort zone. It was also clear that people don't truly understand anxiety all the time and think it is something you can "get over". The fact that Rachel did not go off the deep end with the things thrown at her is testimony to how much her sister helped her!
I loved how the characters got to know each other and while other reviews thought it started slow, I liked the pace. For once the leads did not end up in bed in 3 chapters! I loved how it jumped right in with the list her sister left her and her grief and frustration combated for top feeling. I know if I lost my sister and she did the same to me I would waver between both feelings too. The author really let us know how hard this period of mourning was for her. As for TJ-he started out as a bit of a jerk at the ice cream shop but then he turned into the most thoughtful man for her. I liked the internal conversations they had with themselves, you always knew how they were feeling. And for TJ, his parents "protecting" him from his learning disability-I can see parents doing that! They really thought they were doing the right thing.
All in all-a great addition to the series. You don't have to read them in order; they are all standalone stories-but it is fun to get glimpses of the previous characters and see where they are now! I look forward to the next book!
Well-I lucked out for sure! Not only did I get an advanced copy-I was a beta reader! But it was hard to critique when it was just a wonderful story!
Anxiety is no joke and the author really helped us to understand how hard it can be for someone to explain to others how they feel and how hard it is to move outside their comfort zone. It was also clear that people don't truly understand anxiety all the time and think it is something you can "get over". The fact that Rachel did not go off the deep end with the things thrown at her is testimony to how much her sister helped her!
I loved how the characters got to know each other and while other reviews thought it started slow, I liked the pace. For once the leads did not end up in bed in 3 chapters! I loved how it jumped right in with the list her sister left her and her grief and frustration combated for top feeling. I know if I lost my sister and she did the same to me I would waver between both feelings too. The author really let us know how hard this period of mourning was for her. As for TJ-he started out as a bit of a jerk at the ice cream shop but then he turned into the most thoughtful man for her. I liked the internal conversations they had with themselves, you always knew how they were feeling. And for TJ, his parents "protecting" him from his learning disability-I can see parents doing that! They really thought they were doing the right thing.
All in all-a great addition to the series. You don't have to read them in order; they are all standalone stories-but it is fun to get glimpses of the previous characters and see where they are now! I look forward to the next book!
October 22, 2025
This book was such a beautiful surprise. It is heartfelt, funny, and deeply human in a way that made me laugh and tear up at the same time. Kathryn R. Biel writes characters who feel completely real, imperfect but strong, flawed but full of heart.
The story balances humor and heartbreak perfectly. It is about resilience, starting over, and finding yourself again when life changes in ways you never expected. The friendships and family moments felt so genuine, especially the quiet ones that sneak up on you. There is a warmth to this story that makes even the most difficult moments feel filled with hope.
What stayed with me most was how it reminded me that strength does not always mean pushing through everything. Sometimes, it means allowing yourself to rest and heal. I finished this book feeling lighter, comforted, and deeply moved.
Spice: 🌶️ (gentle and emotional)
Cozy: ☕☕☕☕☕ (comforting and full of heart)
Chills: 👻 (emotional rather than scary)
Action: ⚔️⚔️ (personal battles and growth)
The story balances humor and heartbreak perfectly. It is about resilience, starting over, and finding yourself again when life changes in ways you never expected. The friendships and family moments felt so genuine, especially the quiet ones that sneak up on you. There is a warmth to this story that makes even the most difficult moments feel filled with hope.
What stayed with me most was how it reminded me that strength does not always mean pushing through everything. Sometimes, it means allowing yourself to rest and heal. I finished this book feeling lighter, comforted, and deeply moved.
Spice: 🌶️ (gentle and emotional)
Cozy: ☕☕☕☕☕ (comforting and full of heart)
Chills: 👻 (emotional rather than scary)
Action: ⚔️⚔️ (personal battles and growth)
September 25, 2025
I have read a lot of sports romance but not a lot that involve soccer as the sport. I loved this book so much!! I loved how relatable Rachel and TJ were. They both go through things in this book that are very relatable.
Tropes:
⚽️Loss of a Sibling
⚽️Abandonment Issues
⚽️Reading Disorder Representation
⚽️Sports Romance
⚽️Character Growth
⚽️Found Family
This story follows Rachel who is trying to do the the things on her sister’s bucket list that she left for her before she died. Tj started as just one of the items on the bucket list but turned into so much more. He has some things he is going through too in this book which is what made this book so good. It wasn't just a dual pov where his pov didn't add much to the story! I flew through this book because it was so good! The author did a great job with some very tough themes!!
This title is set to be released on October 20th, 2025
Tropes:
⚽️Loss of a Sibling
⚽️Abandonment Issues
⚽️Reading Disorder Representation
⚽️Sports Romance
⚽️Character Growth
⚽️Found Family
This story follows Rachel who is trying to do the the things on her sister’s bucket list that she left for her before she died. Tj started as just one of the items on the bucket list but turned into so much more. He has some things he is going through too in this book which is what made this book so good. It wasn't just a dual pov where his pov didn't add much to the story! I flew through this book because it was so good! The author did a great job with some very tough themes!!
This title is set to be released on October 20th, 2025
November 11, 2025
Alive and Kicking was a field goal. My first experience was with the Boston Buzzards was Zero To Hero (If you haven't read it you need to it lives rent free in my head.) and it only gets better. In Alive and Kicking we get the story of Rachel Cramer and midfielder TJ Cramer. Biel does not shy away from heavy topics loss, grief, and living life despite it are featured heavily and with proper respect with in the pages.
Rachel is a homebody, who plans her every step. TJ is drifting through life playing soccer and posting to social media. When they find each other there are sparks, and not just the good kind. Watching them learn to trust each other and grow with a bit of help from well meaning family is a joy. I read this in an afternoon, and I think fans of contemporary and sports romance alike would love this book.
I received a free copy of this book, and am leaving this review of my own volition.
Rachel is a homebody, who plans her every step. TJ is drifting through life playing soccer and posting to social media. When they find each other there are sparks, and not just the good kind. Watching them learn to trust each other and grow with a bit of help from well meaning family is a joy. I read this in an afternoon, and I think fans of contemporary and sports romance alike would love this book.
I received a free copy of this book, and am leaving this review of my own volition.
October 22, 2025
Rachel's sister has been her best friend and her support through their tumultuous childhood. When Rachel loses he sister to cancer in her 20's she is lost. But her sister left her a bucket list to complete. To honor her sister's memory Rachel start checking things off the list. One of the items is to meet profession soccer player TJ Doyle. Rachel and TJ embark on a friendship that turns into so much more.
This was such a fun RomCom. Both main characters were awkward in such an endearing way. I was routing for them the entire book. The cast of characters around them was so enjoyable. And the players from the previous Boston Buzzards books made cameo appearances. Loved that!
I highly recommend this to all the romance fans out there.
This was such a fun RomCom. Both main characters were awkward in such an endearing way. I was routing for them the entire book. The cast of characters around them was so enjoyable. And the players from the previous Boston Buzzards books made cameo appearances. Loved that!
I highly recommend this to all the romance fans out there.
October 4, 2025
Honestly, this started a bit slow for me. Rachel is fulfilling a bucket list that her younger sister left for her when she died. I read to escape so it was a bit heavy. I kept reading because I enjoyed the writing and how much was in the words. By the third chapter I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. TJ is a professional soccer player in his own way. Together what starts as friendship turns into a slow burn. This is a great story about found family, real family and significant character growth.
September 19, 2025
This was a cute and innocent read. I liked the bucket list idea and Rachel learning how to live through her grief. I didnt love the way she handled TJ finding out he had dyslexia. I thought her reaction was pretty cringey. Also did not love the closed door scenes. The main characters were around 30 years old but acted much more immature in my opinion. I am in my 30s and did not connect with them. I couldn't really find them relatable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2025
Want an awkward heroine and a hot hero who is struggling with his self esteem? This book will surprise you with heart and humor. Rachel and TJ are an unlucky pair. She is mourning the loss of her sister. He is worried he will soon be out of the only job he feels defines him, soccer. Together can they find a path to a successful and happy future? This hard to put down book and you will laugh, cry and root for Rachel and TJ.
October 20, 2025
Oh my goodness. This story was so enjoyable. So full of healing and growth on both characters parts. Anxiety is something I struggle with as well so that part really spoke to me on a special level. It truly was magnificent how Rachel and TJ helped each other through their struggles. Love this series so much. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by bookfunnel.
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