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The False Start
The False Start is an open door, spicy sports romance perfect for fans of Tessa Bailey and Liz Tomforde.
Lila Summers has a great life on paper.
A kick-ass career—where she spends too many late nights with her emails.
A supportive family—whose critiques showcase exactly how short of their measuring stick she falls.
A blue-eyed boyfriend in finance—who lives 800 miles away and is really more of a situational on-again-off-again presence.
Okay, so maybe it isn’t so great after all. When her ride-or-die best friend convinces her to give one night at the club a chance, she smacks face first into the chiseled chest of newly traded NFL Tight End John “Cal” Basset. Their connection is as electric as their first dance, and as much as they might try, the sparks can’t be ignored.
Cal might have a pretty face, but he has his own baggage. Between the spotlight of a mid-season trade, a complicated relationship with his father, and a trust fund with too many strings, he’s juggling more than the average NFL tight end, but he knows what he wants.
When Lila and Cal are forced to confront their complicated feelings for each other during a trip up North, it goes almost exactly as imagined—terribly.
Can these two possibly have what it takes to overcome their own emotional baggage and have a winning season or will this be another false start?
Lila Summers has a great life on paper.
A kick-ass career—where she spends too many late nights with her emails.
A supportive family—whose critiques showcase exactly how short of their measuring stick she falls.
A blue-eyed boyfriend in finance—who lives 800 miles away and is really more of a situational on-again-off-again presence.
Okay, so maybe it isn’t so great after all. When her ride-or-die best friend convinces her to give one night at the club a chance, she smacks face first into the chiseled chest of newly traded NFL Tight End John “Cal” Basset. Their connection is as electric as their first dance, and as much as they might try, the sparks can’t be ignored.
Cal might have a pretty face, but he has his own baggage. Between the spotlight of a mid-season trade, a complicated relationship with his father, and a trust fund with too many strings, he’s juggling more than the average NFL tight end, but he knows what he wants.
When Lila and Cal are forced to confront their complicated feelings for each other during a trip up North, it goes almost exactly as imagined—terribly.
Can these two possibly have what it takes to overcome their own emotional baggage and have a winning season or will this be another false start?
376 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2025
15 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
August 22, 2025
“The one bed trope always works out in the books. How bad could it be in real life? Right? Right.”
Thank you to Lillian Lyle and LoveNotes PR for this ARC, this is a really cute debut story by this author! Im a sucker for a sports romance and enjoyed this story - the one bed at the lodge? Sign me up!!
Lila and Cal were super sweet together and I really liked the characters (although Lila’s constant need for confirmation of Cal’s feelings started to wear a bit thin towards the end).
I didn’t just love the MC’s, Lila’s best friend Katie and Cal’s best friend Theo were FANTASTIC side characters too. I’m looking forward to seeing what is in store next for this author and I’m really hoping to read more about Katie and Theo.
Without posting any spoilers… I was bummed this story wrapped up so quickly. There was a lot of heavily mentioned ‘side drama’ throughout this book for most of the characters, but no detailed closure. Still, I inhaled this book and read it within 24 hours. Really sweet, engaging characters and cute banter for the win.
“I should get back on the horse—or under the man—at some point.”
Thank you to Lillian Lyle and LoveNotes PR for this ARC, this is a really cute debut story by this author! Im a sucker for a sports romance and enjoyed this story - the one bed at the lodge? Sign me up!!
Lila and Cal were super sweet together and I really liked the characters (although Lila’s constant need for confirmation of Cal’s feelings started to wear a bit thin towards the end).
I didn’t just love the MC’s, Lila’s best friend Katie and Cal’s best friend Theo were FANTASTIC side characters too. I’m looking forward to seeing what is in store next for this author and I’m really hoping to read more about Katie and Theo.
Without posting any spoilers… I was bummed this story wrapped up so quickly. There was a lot of heavily mentioned ‘side drama’ throughout this book for most of the characters, but no detailed closure. Still, I inhaled this book and read it within 24 hours. Really sweet, engaging characters and cute banter for the win.
“I should get back on the horse—or under the man—at some point.”
August 24, 2025
The False Start 💜
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes Pr & Lillian Lyle for trusting me with this wonderful ARC!
Lila and Cal have one thing in common:for others they live the dream life.Yet those two know more than everyone that nothing like this is close to the truth.
What will happen when they will meet in a dance floor and from that moment and on an attraction,that cannot be denied,is formed?
Will these season lead to the win of their lives or it will be just an another false start?
Oh.My.God.
I have never seen a title that was more perfect for a book.False Start is exactly what happens.Not a metaphor or a tricky game to catch the eye.No.Exactly that.
Lila is one of the most relatable characters you will read about.She potrays perfectly the nowdays woman and how society has her so tired that she just says I am settled ,there nothing better,until a day that she understands that somewhere outside there IS something better,and starts searching for it until she gets what she wants and ,most importantly,deserves.
Her character development empowered me so much during the story,that I think every girl would she herself in her,and maybe takes her own decision to haunt for what its hers.
Cal,was so cute from the start.He was such a lover boy with so much going on his life that he was just trying to get everyday over.To tell you the truth they were many times that I wanted to jump into the pages and give him a big hug🥹.
However,our boy despite everything made sure his woman was treated well,was mentally okay,and generally care a lot about her well being.He was beautiful,supportive and so heart working for his own goals.
Usually we comment only for the fmc about how focused she is and about girl power,yet this time I want to adress to Cal and how hard he fought his whole life to have the career he wants.GO MY MAN!
To continue with,the romance was PERFECT this time-If you have seen my previous reviews in my last books,I struggled with the romance part,although this time Oh.My.God. Lyle did such a good job building it,express it & show it 🌶️-girls,these scenes were FIRE!
As you understood,we have a beautiful romance,powerful characters & athletes going on,so I do not need to say my classic I do recommend because I am absolutely sure half of you won't even make it to this point of the review,and you are already pre-ordering The False Start.But,just for the vibe I will say, that of course,I do recommend this story 100%
out Sept,2nd
4⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes Pr & Lillian Lyle for trusting me with this wonderful ARC!
Lila and Cal have one thing in common:for others they live the dream life.Yet those two know more than everyone that nothing like this is close to the truth.
What will happen when they will meet in a dance floor and from that moment and on an attraction,that cannot be denied,is formed?
Will these season lead to the win of their lives or it will be just an another false start?
Oh.My.God.
I have never seen a title that was more perfect for a book.False Start is exactly what happens.Not a metaphor or a tricky game to catch the eye.No.Exactly that.
Lila is one of the most relatable characters you will read about.She potrays perfectly the nowdays woman and how society has her so tired that she just says I am settled ,there nothing better,until a day that she understands that somewhere outside there IS something better,and starts searching for it until she gets what she wants and ,most importantly,deserves.
Her character development empowered me so much during the story,that I think every girl would she herself in her,and maybe takes her own decision to haunt for what its hers.
Cal,was so cute from the start.He was such a lover boy with so much going on his life that he was just trying to get everyday over.To tell you the truth they were many times that I wanted to jump into the pages and give him a big hug🥹.
However,our boy despite everything made sure his woman was treated well,was mentally okay,and generally care a lot about her well being.He was beautiful,supportive and so heart working for his own goals.
Usually we comment only for the fmc about how focused she is and about girl power,yet this time I want to adress to Cal and how hard he fought his whole life to have the career he wants.GO MY MAN!
To continue with,the romance was PERFECT this time-If you have seen my previous reviews in my last books,I struggled with the romance part,although this time Oh.My.God. Lyle did such a good job building it,express it & show it 🌶️-girls,these scenes were FIRE!
As you understood,we have a beautiful romance,powerful characters & athletes going on,so I do not need to say my classic I do recommend because I am absolutely sure half of you won't even make it to this point of the review,and you are already pre-ordering The False Start.But,just for the vibe I will say, that of course,I do recommend this story 100%
out Sept,2nd
4⭐
September 18, 2025
This is a sweet cozy sports romance that's great during the autumn months.The story has several footfall references, fantasy football talk and takes place in Chicago during the fall season.
Lila, FMC, is a determined businesswoman in her mid thirties, but still needs validation to be confidence within herself. Cal, MMC, is a sports jock knows what he wants and goes for it as well as having a big heart and loyalty to his friends.
Cal gets traded to the team where lila and tim have mutual friends and meet up one night at a club.There's instant attraction of Lila by Cal, though Lila is off limits due to her on again/off again, boyfriend who treats her terribly. While Lila gives her boyfriend multiple chances to redeem his awful behavior, cal is resigned to being just a good friend.She can talk football with and hang out along with her other friends. Cal's patience and good nature pays off one night when they are left stranded at a hotel with ONE BED, while Lila happened to have finally kicked her rude boyfriend to the curb.Their mutual chemistry is hot and steamy, and their "only friends"' status changes.
The ending felt rushed and I feel there was not a resolution for Lila and Cal and the conflicts that still played a significant part of their lives, though they both knew they wanted each other in a future together.
Lila, FMC, is a determined businesswoman in her mid thirties, but still needs validation to be confidence within herself. Cal, MMC, is a sports jock knows what he wants and goes for it as well as having a big heart and loyalty to his friends.
Cal gets traded to the team where lila and tim have mutual friends and meet up one night at a club.There's instant attraction of Lila by Cal, though Lila is off limits due to her on again/off again, boyfriend who treats her terribly. While Lila gives her boyfriend multiple chances to redeem his awful behavior, cal is resigned to being just a good friend.She can talk football with and hang out along with her other friends. Cal's patience and good nature pays off one night when they are left stranded at a hotel with ONE BED, while Lila happened to have finally kicked her rude boyfriend to the curb.Their mutual chemistry is hot and steamy, and their "only friends"' status changes.
The ending felt rushed and I feel there was not a resolution for Lila and Cal and the conflicts that still played a significant part of their lives, though they both knew they wanted each other in a future together.
September 6, 2025
I give this book 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was honestly the best book I’ve read I could not put it down! The tropes in this book is Friends to lovers, One Bed,Sports romance, He falls harder for her, and it’s a little bit of a slow burn. Lila is a Consultant, and Cal plays in the NFL they remind me of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in this book except for a singer in this book haha!! Everything in this book was a work of art there were a few characters I didn’t like which was Dennis, Lila’s mom, and Cal’s dad. First, I’m just going to start with Dennis( Lila’s Boyfriend/Ex towards the middle) he was an extremely emotional abusive asshole, always guilt tripping Lila, accusing her of cheating, making her feel less important, not supporting her dreams, wants, and needs, I just didn’t like him at all, I’m glad after Lila realized she didn’t deserve that she finally left him for good. Second, Lila’s mom she was just a little too judgmental,demanding, controlling, trying to make Lila meet her expectations, and just treating her like it’s not her life I get that she just wants what’s best for her daughter but you have to let her make her own choices let her live her life. Third, Cal’s dad he was a little too rude when he meet Lila judging her, and acting like she wasn’t nothing but when he found out she was a consultant and he got a email from Cal he had a change of heart and apologized, and he had offered her a job at his company. Finally, let’s get to the good part Lila and Cal their undeniable chemistry when they first met at the bar I think it love at first sight for them because they couldn’t keep their eyes of each other, Lila and Cal become friends because she was trying to decide if her and Dennis was back together and in the end they broke up, Cal was the nicest, thoughtful,and caring person you can ask for being there for her through her breakup, making her happy by surprising her with a picnic with both of their friends, giving her flowers in the beginning of the book, I loved when Cal was calling her love in this book, them getting to know each other, starting to realize they both have feelings for each other, and when they both realize their feelings, it was a little tricky for Lila because after Dennis she didn’t know if she trusted or she wanted it to be loved again so it took her a little while to admit her feelings, and they started dating soon after, the spice in this book wow so spicy, and passionate I Ioved every moment of it🥵 I’m so glad they ended up together in the end they were so cute, adorable, funny, thoughtful, and romantic.❤️
I just want to think Lillian Lyle for giving me, and trusting me with an ARC of The False Start it was such an amazing book, I just love the characters, romance, and passion in this book! I just want to Congratulate you on your upcoming release that’s coming out on September 2nd. I cannot wait to read more of your books in the nearby future when you release more!!!!
AGAIN CONGRATS ON THE UPCOMING RELEASE!!!!🎉 🎊
-Kierra Brice🩷
This book was honestly the best book I’ve read I could not put it down! The tropes in this book is Friends to lovers, One Bed,Sports romance, He falls harder for her, and it’s a little bit of a slow burn. Lila is a Consultant, and Cal plays in the NFL they remind me of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in this book except for a singer in this book haha!! Everything in this book was a work of art there were a few characters I didn’t like which was Dennis, Lila’s mom, and Cal’s dad. First, I’m just going to start with Dennis( Lila’s Boyfriend/Ex towards the middle) he was an extremely emotional abusive asshole, always guilt tripping Lila, accusing her of cheating, making her feel less important, not supporting her dreams, wants, and needs, I just didn’t like him at all, I’m glad after Lila realized she didn’t deserve that she finally left him for good. Second, Lila’s mom she was just a little too judgmental,demanding, controlling, trying to make Lila meet her expectations, and just treating her like it’s not her life I get that she just wants what’s best for her daughter but you have to let her make her own choices let her live her life. Third, Cal’s dad he was a little too rude when he meet Lila judging her, and acting like she wasn’t nothing but when he found out she was a consultant and he got a email from Cal he had a change of heart and apologized, and he had offered her a job at his company. Finally, let’s get to the good part Lila and Cal their undeniable chemistry when they first met at the bar I think it love at first sight for them because they couldn’t keep their eyes of each other, Lila and Cal become friends because she was trying to decide if her and Dennis was back together and in the end they broke up, Cal was the nicest, thoughtful,and caring person you can ask for being there for her through her breakup, making her happy by surprising her with a picnic with both of their friends, giving her flowers in the beginning of the book, I loved when Cal was calling her love in this book, them getting to know each other, starting to realize they both have feelings for each other, and when they both realize their feelings, it was a little tricky for Lila because after Dennis she didn’t know if she trusted or she wanted it to be loved again so it took her a little while to admit her feelings, and they started dating soon after, the spice in this book wow so spicy, and passionate I Ioved every moment of it🥵 I’m so glad they ended up together in the end they were so cute, adorable, funny, thoughtful, and romantic.❤️
I just want to think Lillian Lyle for giving me, and trusting me with an ARC of The False Start it was such an amazing book, I just love the characters, romance, and passion in this book! I just want to Congratulate you on your upcoming release that’s coming out on September 2nd. I cannot wait to read more of your books in the nearby future when you release more!!!!
AGAIN CONGRATS ON THE UPCOMING RELEASE!!!!🎉 🎊
-Kierra Brice🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2025
The False Start ARC Review
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of The False Start by Lillian Lyle from LoveNotesPR, thank you so much!! 💜
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
“the one bed trope always works out in the books. how bad could it be in real life? right?”
to say this debut novel was the cutest thing i've ever read would be an understatement. lillian truly wrote such a beautiful book, it was just perfect!!! everything about this book was amazing. this was such a quick and fun read for me and i never wanted it to end! this book was the perfect amount of sweet and spicy! i thoroughly enjoyed lila and cal and loved seeing their friendship/relationship grow into more!
lila and cal were everything and more. they were exactly what the other needed and i just loved how supportive and caring they were of each other. their chemistry is off the charts from the beginning and as much as lila tried to fight it, it was inevitable. everything about their friendship/relationship felt authentic and refreshing. i loved seeing their bond slowly grow the more time they spent together.
i can’t wait to see what lillian does next and once again thank you so much to lovenotespr and lillian lyle for providing me with this arc 💜
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of The False Start by Lillian Lyle from LoveNotesPR, thank you so much!! 💜
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/5
“the one bed trope always works out in the books. how bad could it be in real life? right?”
to say this debut novel was the cutest thing i've ever read would be an understatement. lillian truly wrote such a beautiful book, it was just perfect!!! everything about this book was amazing. this was such a quick and fun read for me and i never wanted it to end! this book was the perfect amount of sweet and spicy! i thoroughly enjoyed lila and cal and loved seeing their friendship/relationship grow into more!
lila and cal were everything and more. they were exactly what the other needed and i just loved how supportive and caring they were of each other. their chemistry is off the charts from the beginning and as much as lila tried to fight it, it was inevitable. everything about their friendship/relationship felt authentic and refreshing. i loved seeing their bond slowly grow the more time they spent together.
i can’t wait to see what lillian does next and once again thank you so much to lovenotespr and lillian lyle for providing me with this arc 💜
September 7, 2025
I’m a sucker for sports romance, especially if it’s football or hockey! 🏈🏒
I had the best time binging THE FALSE START this weekend. I finished it in less than a day because it was so cute & sweet!
It’s always refreshing getting romance books with MCs in their thirties 👏 I loved the friend group dynamics with Lila, Katie, Cal, and Theo.
Lila deserved a man like Cal after being with a guy like Dennis 🗑️🙅♀️ I loved getting a dual POV because it was so sweet seeing Cal’s feelings for Lila progress 🥰 I appreciated how patient Cal was and how he showed Lila what a true partnership looks like.
💜 friends to lovers
💜 he falls first
💜 only one bed
The football talk was so fun, especially mentions to fantasy football and even seeing my team’s name on the page! THE FALSE START was the perfect book to read as the new NFL season begins 🏈
I had the best time binging THE FALSE START this weekend. I finished it in less than a day because it was so cute & sweet!
It’s always refreshing getting romance books with MCs in their thirties 👏 I loved the friend group dynamics with Lila, Katie, Cal, and Theo.
Lila deserved a man like Cal after being with a guy like Dennis 🗑️🙅♀️ I loved getting a dual POV because it was so sweet seeing Cal’s feelings for Lila progress 🥰 I appreciated how patient Cal was and how he showed Lila what a true partnership looks like.
💜 friends to lovers
💜 he falls first
💜 only one bed
The football talk was so fun, especially mentions to fantasy football and even seeing my team’s name on the page! THE FALSE START was the perfect book to read as the new NFL season begins 🏈
August 24, 2025
"The False Start" is addictive. I couldn't put it down! It was everything I was looking for! I loved the chemistry between Cal and Lila. I also loved all of the side characters especially Lila's ride or die bestie, Katie Chen.
Lila Summers has a great life....on paper. However, her not so great on and off again boyfriend has made her lose her spark over the years.
One night, Lila's best friend Katie drags her to a club where Cal Bassett saves Lila Summers from a harsh fall at the club. They share a hot dance on the dance floor and sparks fly between them. Their chemistry is off the charts and as much as Lila tried to deny it the feelings were there and they needed to confront them which makes everything complicated.
Cal watches wale documentaries which is hilarious. Cal has such a big heart. Who doesn't love a man in grey sweatpants!
Tropes
-Girl Boss
-Mid 30s MC's
-Only One Bed
-Grey Sweatpants
-Wale Obsession
-Hand Necklaces
-Found Family
Lila Summers has a great life....on paper. However, her not so great on and off again boyfriend has made her lose her spark over the years.
One night, Lila's best friend Katie drags her to a club where Cal Bassett saves Lila Summers from a harsh fall at the club. They share a hot dance on the dance floor and sparks fly between them. Their chemistry is off the charts and as much as Lila tried to deny it the feelings were there and they needed to confront them which makes everything complicated.
Cal watches wale documentaries which is hilarious. Cal has such a big heart. Who doesn't love a man in grey sweatpants!
Tropes
-Girl Boss
-Mid 30s MC's
-Only One Bed
-Grey Sweatpants
-Wale Obsession
-Hand Necklaces
-Found Family
May 29, 2025
I was lucky enough to be chosen as a beta reader for Lyle’s first piece and WOW, it did not disappoint.
I was immediately hooked on this story. It draws you in, embraces some slow burn, and then hits the passion with the strength of 100 suns! I appreciated that the spice was very well paired with a solid plot line and character development. I straight up won’t do spicy romance without a good plot. Every character in this book gave me strong reaction; good or bad. And that’s what you want from a great book. Every character had a piece that you could relate to.
Already ready to re-read this final version and dive into sequels!
I was immediately hooked on this story. It draws you in, embraces some slow burn, and then hits the passion with the strength of 100 suns! I appreciated that the spice was very well paired with a solid plot line and character development. I straight up won’t do spicy romance without a good plot. Every character in this book gave me strong reaction; good or bad. And that’s what you want from a great book. Every character had a piece that you could relate to.
Already ready to re-read this final version and dive into sequels!
September 3, 2025
3.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The False Start was a really enjoyable read overall. I liked the balance between sports and romance—it felt fresh without being too heavy on either side. The banter between the main characters was fun, and I found myself rooting for them despite their flaws. I especially enjoyed the moments of vulnerability that gave the story a bit more depth.
Still, it’s a cute, lighthearted read with plenty of charm, and I think fans of sports romance and second-chance love stories will really enjoy it. Definitely a solid addition
The False Start was a really enjoyable read overall. I liked the balance between sports and romance—it felt fresh without being too heavy on either side. The banter between the main characters was fun, and I found myself rooting for them despite their flaws. I especially enjoyed the moments of vulnerability that gave the story a bit more depth.
Still, it’s a cute, lighthearted read with plenty of charm, and I think fans of sports romance and second-chance love stories will really enjoy it. Definitely a solid addition
September 10, 2025
ARC Review - The false start 💜
Woww !! Honestly I wasn't accepting a book to be this good . It was such a wholesome read . It was all about second chance , emotional situations a human goes through. Sometimes characters can teach you so much + the positive thing is this book was so relatable to me .
So we have Lila and Cal , who are forced to be with each other on a trip 💘 destiny is already planned and things never go as planned 😭 but the ending was smooth and worth it 😭
P.s.- Really sorry for being late as I was in a reading slump but this book felt personal
Rating - 4.5/5 ⭐
Woww !! Honestly I wasn't accepting a book to be this good . It was such a wholesome read . It was all about second chance , emotional situations a human goes through. Sometimes characters can teach you so much + the positive thing is this book was so relatable to me .
So we have Lila and Cal , who are forced to be with each other on a trip 💘 destiny is already planned and things never go as planned 😭 but the ending was smooth and worth it 😭
P.s.- Really sorry for being late as I was in a reading slump but this book felt personal
Rating - 4.5/5 ⭐
August 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 He Falls First & Harder
💜 NFL Player
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 "Good Girl"
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup.
Let me start out by saying how refreshing it is to read a sports romance where the FMC is in her 30s 🙌 and the first time Cal had flowers sent to Lila I was swooning hard! Loved Lila’s girl boss energy and I loved how supportive Cal was of her career! Definitely a must read if you love sports romance!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 He Falls First & Harder
💜 NFL Player
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 "Good Girl"
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup.
Let me start out by saying how refreshing it is to read a sports romance where the FMC is in her 30s 🙌 and the first time Cal had flowers sent to Lila I was swooning hard! Loved Lila’s girl boss energy and I loved how supportive Cal was of her career! Definitely a must read if you love sports romance!
November 9, 2025
4/5 ⭐️ This was so cute! It was a quick and easy read. Big fan of a kick ass FMC 🫶
September 12, 2025
Lillian aced this debut!! I was hooked right from the start, every page had me wanting to read the next. Lila and Cal's chemistry hits right off the bat. Cal's caring and protective nature had me obsessing over him the whole time.
The ex was insufferably infuriating, so glad Cal decided to show her she deserves better.
Lila summers, our girlboss, with such a dramatic and exhausting family, still the badass she is is great at her job.
Cal Basset, our hottest NHL player, is perfectly charming and caring, the way he notices small details and shows up for Lila is so heartwarming, I couldn't get enough of him (internally wanting a sports romance with him of my own)
The side characters were lovely, Lila's friends - Katie and Theo, were my fav!
The spicy scenes were so damn good, I inhaled it with the widest smile on my face.
The ex was insufferably infuriating, so glad Cal decided to show her she deserves better.
Lila summers, our girlboss, with such a dramatic and exhausting family, still the badass she is is great at her job.
Cal Basset, our hottest NHL player, is perfectly charming and caring, the way he notices small details and shows up for Lila is so heartwarming, I couldn't get enough of him (internally wanting a sports romance with him of my own)
The side characters were lovely, Lila's friends - Katie and Theo, were my fav!
The spicy scenes were so damn good, I inhaled it with the widest smile on my face.
May 10, 2025
A wonderful debut by an author I'm excited about. Lila and Cal's relationship was lovely to read from start to finish, and I fell in love with all the side characters and the world she built around them. Can't wait to see what else she has in the pipeline!
August 30, 2025
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What to expect:
🏈 Sports Romance
💜 Second Chance at Love
👩💼 Strong FMC in her 30s
🥹 Sweet + Patient MMC
✨ Real Relationship Struggles
🔥 Romance Front and Center
False Start by Lillian Lyle absolutely stole my heart. The title couldn’t be more perfect, Cal and Lila needed to be in the right place in their lives before their relationship could finally take off, and that made their story all the more meaningful!!
Cal was the sweetest, most patient MMC, and I loved how Lila was such a boss in her own right. Their dynamic felt authentic and refreshing, especially as they navigated real relationship challenges. And I can’t tell you how much I appreciated seeing characters in their 30s finding love, super freaking relatable!!
This book gave me all the feels: swoon, heart, and the kind of spice that makes you smile at your Kindle.
Huge thank you to Lillian Lyle and @lovenotespr for the ARC in exchange for my honest review 💌.
What to expect:
🏈 Sports Romance
💜 Second Chance at Love
👩💼 Strong FMC in her 30s
🥹 Sweet + Patient MMC
✨ Real Relationship Struggles
🔥 Romance Front and Center
False Start by Lillian Lyle absolutely stole my heart. The title couldn’t be more perfect, Cal and Lila needed to be in the right place in their lives before their relationship could finally take off, and that made their story all the more meaningful!!
Cal was the sweetest, most patient MMC, and I loved how Lila was such a boss in her own right. Their dynamic felt authentic and refreshing, especially as they navigated real relationship challenges. And I can’t tell you how much I appreciated seeing characters in their 30s finding love, super freaking relatable!!
This book gave me all the feels: swoon, heart, and the kind of spice that makes you smile at your Kindle.
Huge thank you to Lillian Lyle and @lovenotespr for the ARC in exchange for my honest review 💌.
October 19, 2025
✨ ARC Review ✨
Thank you to Lillian Lyle and Love Notes PR for the ARC!
What to expect:
💜 He Falls First & Harder
💜 NFL Player
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 “Good Girl”
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup
I was not sure what to expect heading into this one, since I do not usually read sports romances, but I wanted to try something different and I am so glad I did.
This story introduces us to Lila and Cal. After being recently traded to the Chicago NFL team, Cal finally crosses paths with Lila at a club, despite the two sharing mutual friends for years. From the very first moment, Cal feels something undeniable for her.
Lila is fresh off another breakup with her on-again, off-again boyfriend Dennis, a character I instantly disliked. That made it even more satisfying when she realized it was time to give Cal a chance.
Their story begins to take shape after a car accident leads them to a roadside hotel. The only room left is the honeymoon suite, and that is when the sparks really start to fly.
This book has a good amount of spice, with one scene in particular standing out as extra intense. Each moment is written with so much chemistry that you can feel the pull between them.
You also get to see the ups and downs of their relationship, along with the constant reassurance they both need from one another, which adds depth and heart to the story.
If you are looking for a feel-good romance with just the right amount of spice, this one is an easy recommendation.
Thank you to Lillian Lyle and Love Notes PR for the ARC!
What to expect:
💜 He Falls First & Harder
💜 NFL Player
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 “Good Girl”
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup
I was not sure what to expect heading into this one, since I do not usually read sports romances, but I wanted to try something different and I am so glad I did.
This story introduces us to Lila and Cal. After being recently traded to the Chicago NFL team, Cal finally crosses paths with Lila at a club, despite the two sharing mutual friends for years. From the very first moment, Cal feels something undeniable for her.
Lila is fresh off another breakup with her on-again, off-again boyfriend Dennis, a character I instantly disliked. That made it even more satisfying when she realized it was time to give Cal a chance.
Their story begins to take shape after a car accident leads them to a roadside hotel. The only room left is the honeymoon suite, and that is when the sparks really start to fly.
This book has a good amount of spice, with one scene in particular standing out as extra intense. Each moment is written with so much chemistry that you can feel the pull between them.
You also get to see the ups and downs of their relationship, along with the constant reassurance they both need from one another, which adds depth and heart to the story.
If you are looking for a feel-good romance with just the right amount of spice, this one is an easy recommendation.
September 8, 2025
Lila is our big city businesswoman who seamlessly goes from a professional in heels to a rabid sports fan ruling her fantasy football team with an iron fist. Cal is our pro NFLer who was recently traded to Chicago and is playing for a new team trying to juggle public engagements and his preferred couch time watching marine documentaries. Lila and Cal are introduced by friends and there is a clear connection immediately. What could have began as a meet cute immediately fizzled into a meet complicated due to Lila’s douchebag on-and-off LDR. Despite obvious friction and disrespect, Lila feels her relationship with Dennis is what she wants. Lila and Cal settle into a sweet friendship where they get to know one another amid still trying to figure their own selves out. After Lila decides to end things with her shitty ex, a spicy night with only one bed turns their friendship on its head.
I was conflicted about Lila’s character arc; she struggled to ask for what she wanted because she didn’t feel she deserved it, but Cal gave her the space, time, and respect to do it. Their matchmaker friends really do wing-person for these two throughout the entire book. The found family trope is strong in this novel, there’s no doubt about that! Bless Cal for being the most patient and respectful gentleman… except for when he wasn’t 😈🥵 ALSO, have mercyyyy when this woman tries to rile this man up because she succeeds and he is feral for it. Let me just say that I’ll never look at a football jersey the same way.
One of my favorite things about this novel was the setting. I could visualize so many of the locations referenced in this book because I live near Chicago. I’ve eaten steak and drank wine at Chicago Cut (a great plug, I hope the restaurant gives the author a free dinner for that one!) and I was easily immersed into the world of this novel from the descriptions of the Windy City weather to the traffic to popping into a crowded bar filled with jerseys and rowdy sports fans. All of these visuals were so perfectly Chicago. Another huge plus was there was actual sport in this sports romance! That does not always happen so it was great to read about them watching games and also Cal practicing and playing.
I was disappointed in the ending because it felt so rushed and fell so flat for what could have been a really beautiful moment and resolution to the story. Their parental conflicts were significant enough to cause each of them to behave certain ways yet the moments to address those issues didn’t come through. I was surprised that Lila was a die hard fantasy football girl yet we didn’t hear any more about her team in the second half of the book! There could have been so many cute little moments to bring that back around full circle, so that was a bummer for me as well. A few tweaks to those areas could have bumped this up to a five star read.
I was given an ARC of The False Start by Lillian Lyle from Love Notes PR in exchange for an honest review.
I was conflicted about Lila’s character arc; she struggled to ask for what she wanted because she didn’t feel she deserved it, but Cal gave her the space, time, and respect to do it. Their matchmaker friends really do wing-person for these two throughout the entire book. The found family trope is strong in this novel, there’s no doubt about that! Bless Cal for being the most patient and respectful gentleman… except for when he wasn’t 😈🥵 ALSO, have mercyyyy when this woman tries to rile this man up because she succeeds and he is feral for it. Let me just say that I’ll never look at a football jersey the same way.
One of my favorite things about this novel was the setting. I could visualize so many of the locations referenced in this book because I live near Chicago. I’ve eaten steak and drank wine at Chicago Cut (a great plug, I hope the restaurant gives the author a free dinner for that one!) and I was easily immersed into the world of this novel from the descriptions of the Windy City weather to the traffic to popping into a crowded bar filled with jerseys and rowdy sports fans. All of these visuals were so perfectly Chicago. Another huge plus was there was actual sport in this sports romance! That does not always happen so it was great to read about them watching games and also Cal practicing and playing.
I was disappointed in the ending because it felt so rushed and fell so flat for what could have been a really beautiful moment and resolution to the story. Their parental conflicts were significant enough to cause each of them to behave certain ways yet the moments to address those issues didn’t come through. I was surprised that Lila was a die hard fantasy football girl yet we didn’t hear any more about her team in the second half of the book! There could have been so many cute little moments to bring that back around full circle, so that was a bummer for me as well. A few tweaks to those areas could have bumped this up to a five star read.
I was given an ARC of The False Start by Lillian Lyle from Love Notes PR in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2025
Thank you Lillian Lyle and Love Notes PR for my ARC of The False start in exchange for this honest review.
3.5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
💜 He Falls First & Harder
💜 NFL Player
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 "Good Girl"
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup
Everyone deserves someone in their lives as amazing, caring, and understanding as Cal.
When Cal and Lila first meeting the chemistry is instant, the only problem Lila is still in on again off again long distance relationship with the awful Dennis.
Cal knows that what he and Lila could have is special and real and he is willing to wait and let her figure out what wants.
They both have complicated family history, but quickly learn that instead of hiding their problems away they now have someone to lean on and be on their team.
I don't know if I have seen a stronger he falls first and harder MMC. He is willing to put in the time to make her see what has been obvious to him from the very beginning.
The story was great but I felt like the end of a bit rushed. I would have enjoyed to see a more extended epilogue instead of leaving us wanting more. There were details (especially around their family dynamics) that were thrown in but not explained. Lillian come out with a bonus extended epilogue. Tell us the rest of that day 1 year later and maybe another scene!
Favorite Quotes:
"'Everyone needs someone to play for.' 'And who do you play for?' 'Ask me again when you're ready for the answer.'"
"The one bed trope always works out in the books. How bad could it be in real life? Right? Right."
"Love is stupid. But I want it, and I think I want to try it with Jonathan Callahan Basset, even if he dumps me in six months for a Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover model."
"It's like I was living in black and white, and you brought color with you, but instead of leaving it dark and grey when you left, I could still see the color, in everything. I don't want to live in grey ever again."
"When I met you, it was like I didn't need to make space for you in my life because the space was already there, waiting for you to fill it."
3.5/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
💜 He Falls First & Harder
💜 NFL Player
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 "Good Girl"
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup
Everyone deserves someone in their lives as amazing, caring, and understanding as Cal.
When Cal and Lila first meeting the chemistry is instant, the only problem Lila is still in on again off again long distance relationship with the awful Dennis.
Cal knows that what he and Lila could have is special and real and he is willing to wait and let her figure out what wants.
They both have complicated family history, but quickly learn that instead of hiding their problems away they now have someone to lean on and be on their team.
I don't know if I have seen a stronger he falls first and harder MMC. He is willing to put in the time to make her see what has been obvious to him from the very beginning.
The story was great but I felt like the end of a bit rushed. I would have enjoyed to see a more extended epilogue instead of leaving us wanting more. There were details (especially around their family dynamics) that were thrown in but not explained. Lillian come out with a bonus extended epilogue. Tell us the rest of that day 1 year later and maybe another scene!
Favorite Quotes:
"'Everyone needs someone to play for.' 'And who do you play for?' 'Ask me again when you're ready for the answer.'"
"The one bed trope always works out in the books. How bad could it be in real life? Right? Right."
"Love is stupid. But I want it, and I think I want to try it with Jonathan Callahan Basset, even if he dumps me in six months for a Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover model."
"It's like I was living in black and white, and you brought color with you, but instead of leaving it dark and grey when you left, I could still see the color, in everything. I don't want to live in grey ever again."
"When I met you, it was like I didn't need to make space for you in my life because the space was already there, waiting for you to fill it."
August 31, 2025
Per iniziare voglio ringraziare Lillian e LoveNote PR per avermi dato l'opportunità di leggere questo Arc!
Cosa aspettarvi:
💜 He Falls First & Harder (sotto mille treni)
💜 NFL Player (Football)
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 "Good Girl"
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup.
Dalla trama tu sei veramente convinta che i protagonisti vivano la loro vita al meglio, che hanno realizzato i loro sogni ma non è così. Lila è una protagonista che mi ha fatto piangere, ho odiato che quelli che "dovrebbero" essere i primi a sostenerla, sono invece i primi a buttarla giù. Ho amato la sua migliore amica, sempre pronta ad aiutarla e spero di vederla in altri!
Anche il protagonista Cal, sembra avere una vita perfetta sotto i riflettori quando invece nasconde anche lui il suo bagaglio, come il suo rapporto complicato con il padre e lotta per il suo sogno.
Cal e Lila si capiscono, si sostengono a vicenda ma hanno anche i loro alti e bassi, dovuti ad insicurezze del passato. La loro chimica però è innegabile, sin dal loro primo incontro c'era una tensione fisica che sudavo io al posto loro.
Per quanto riguarda la scrittura e la struttura della storia sono rimasta incantata sin dal primo capitolo, non riuscivo a staccarmi e per questo l'ho praticamente finito in mezza giornata! Non vedo l'ora di leggere altre storie!
First off, I want to thank Lillian and LoveNote PR for giving me the opportunity to read this Arc!
What to expect:
💜 He Falls First & Harder
💜 NFL Player
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 "Good Girl"
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup.
From the plot, you truly believe the protagonists are living their lives to the fullest, that they've achieved their dreams, but that's not the case. Lila is a protagonist who made me cry; I hated that those who "should" be the first to support her are instead the first to tear her down. I loved her best friend, always ready to help her, and I hope to see that in others!
The protagonist, Cal, also seems to have a perfect life in the spotlight, when in reality he too hides his own baggage, like his complicated relationship with his father, and fights for his dream.
Cal and Lila understand each other, they support each other, but they also have their ups and downs, due to past insecurities. Their chemistry, however, is undeniable; from their first meeting, there was a physical tension that made me sweat for them.
As for the writing and the structure of the story, I was enchanted from the first chapter; I couldn't put it down, and that's why I practically finished it in half a day! I can't wait to read more stories!
Cosa aspettarvi:
💜 He Falls First & Harder (sotto mille treni)
💜 NFL Player (Football)
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 "Good Girl"
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup.
Dalla trama tu sei veramente convinta che i protagonisti vivano la loro vita al meglio, che hanno realizzato i loro sogni ma non è così. Lila è una protagonista che mi ha fatto piangere, ho odiato che quelli che "dovrebbero" essere i primi a sostenerla, sono invece i primi a buttarla giù. Ho amato la sua migliore amica, sempre pronta ad aiutarla e spero di vederla in altri!
Anche il protagonista Cal, sembra avere una vita perfetta sotto i riflettori quando invece nasconde anche lui il suo bagaglio, come il suo rapporto complicato con il padre e lotta per il suo sogno.
Cal e Lila si capiscono, si sostengono a vicenda ma hanno anche i loro alti e bassi, dovuti ad insicurezze del passato. La loro chimica però è innegabile, sin dal loro primo incontro c'era una tensione fisica che sudavo io al posto loro.
Per quanto riguarda la scrittura e la struttura della storia sono rimasta incantata sin dal primo capitolo, non riuscivo a staccarmi e per questo l'ho praticamente finito in mezza giornata! Non vedo l'ora di leggere altre storie!
First off, I want to thank Lillian and LoveNote PR for giving me the opportunity to read this Arc!
What to expect:
💜 He Falls First & Harder
💜 NFL Player
💜 Friends to Lovers
💜 Only One Bed
💜 Found Family
💜 Hand Necklaces
💜 "Good Girl"
💜 Possessive MMC
💜 No Third Act Breakup.
From the plot, you truly believe the protagonists are living their lives to the fullest, that they've achieved their dreams, but that's not the case. Lila is a protagonist who made me cry; I hated that those who "should" be the first to support her are instead the first to tear her down. I loved her best friend, always ready to help her, and I hope to see that in others!
The protagonist, Cal, also seems to have a perfect life in the spotlight, when in reality he too hides his own baggage, like his complicated relationship with his father, and fights for his dream.
Cal and Lila understand each other, they support each other, but they also have their ups and downs, due to past insecurities. Their chemistry, however, is undeniable; from their first meeting, there was a physical tension that made me sweat for them.
As for the writing and the structure of the story, I was enchanted from the first chapter; I couldn't put it down, and that's why I practically finished it in half a day! I can't wait to read more stories!
September 20, 2025
Lord this book really made me feel for Lila so much 🥹 it truly was upsetting to see that she couldn’t realize that she deserved better than her annoying boyfriend Dennis 🙄 Dennis never deserved her at all and it was heartbreaking to see Lila thinking that at her age, 33, that she has to settle down with him. You can truly see(read) the difference when she is in Dennis’ presence and Cal’s!
This is the story of Lila and Cal, two people who meet through mutual friends and instantly they are attracted to each other ! Their chemistry was so palpable and even her neighbor can tell that Cal was head over heels for her! Sadly, she meets Cal when she’s still in her on and off relationship with Dennis 🙄 Dennis was truly a horrible person and the fact that he hated that she would hang out with other men, at his grown age, gave me the ick. It was obvious he was trying to police who she hung out with and always fought with Lila about her friendship with Cal.
Cal was always patient and never inappropriate with Lila bc of her relationship with Dennis. He also knew she had to make her own choices and even though no one liked Dennis, including her best friend Katie and Theo, at the end of the day, Lila has to make that choice. Cal will always be there, whenever she needed a shoulder to cry on and that is a man right there!
I truly loved reading this book and seeing Lila navigate her life and ignore what her mother always says. And the same can be applied to Cal and his father. Both have complicated family histories, but that doesn’t deter them from being with each other. I loved seeing how patient Cal was and always encouraging Lila to think things through. He never pressured her like Dennis and always reminded her that it’s her choice and only her choice. It was great to read Lila’s growth in the book and be able to trust her instincts and just let go and be loved 🥰
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥
This is the story of Lila and Cal, two people who meet through mutual friends and instantly they are attracted to each other ! Their chemistry was so palpable and even her neighbor can tell that Cal was head over heels for her! Sadly, she meets Cal when she’s still in her on and off relationship with Dennis 🙄 Dennis was truly a horrible person and the fact that he hated that she would hang out with other men, at his grown age, gave me the ick. It was obvious he was trying to police who she hung out with and always fought with Lila about her friendship with Cal.
Cal was always patient and never inappropriate with Lila bc of her relationship with Dennis. He also knew she had to make her own choices and even though no one liked Dennis, including her best friend Katie and Theo, at the end of the day, Lila has to make that choice. Cal will always be there, whenever she needed a shoulder to cry on and that is a man right there!
I truly loved reading this book and seeing Lila navigate her life and ignore what her mother always says. And the same can be applied to Cal and his father. Both have complicated family histories, but that doesn’t deter them from being with each other. I loved seeing how patient Cal was and always encouraging Lila to think things through. He never pressured her like Dennis and always reminded her that it’s her choice and only her choice. It was great to read Lila’s growth in the book and be able to trust her instincts and just let go and be loved 🥰
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥
Read
September 8, 2025✨️✨️ ARC Review ✨️✨️
False Start is a spicy, heartfelt sports romance that hooked me right from the start. If you love a swoony hero, sizzling chemistry and a bit of family drama woven in, this one is for you.
Lila Summers looks like she has it all together on paper. A solid career, a close-knit (if rather judgemental) family, and a boyfriend in finance who seems perfect… except he is eight hundred miles away and more off than on. It becomes very clear, very quickly, that Lila is just coasting through life and settling for far less than she deserves.
Enter John “Cal” Basset, newly traded NFL tight end. Their meet-cute is the sort that makes you smile into the page. Lila literally falls into him and he is there again when she needs saving from an over-friendly encounter at the club. Their connection is instant and impossible to ignore, even though both of them are juggling their own baggage.
Cal is in a new city, finding his rhythm with a new team, and working through complicated family issues. Lila is stuck in a relationship with Dennis (who I absolutely hated) and genuinely believes she does not deserve more than being treated as second best. Watching her slowly realise she is worthy of love and respect was so satisfying, and I was cheering when she finally put Dennis behind her.
The romance is full of lovely moments. Cal is clearly besotted but never pushes Lila too hard, and their “only one bed” scenario was one of my favourite parts. The push and pull between them felt real, with both navigating insecurities and family pressures, yet when they finally decide to give it a proper go, it is incredibly sweet.
The ending left me with a bit of a grin. It was just the right amount of tease, while still feeling like a proper happy ending.
Overall, False Start is flirty, emotional and very readable. I enjoyed every minute.
False Start is a spicy, heartfelt sports romance that hooked me right from the start. If you love a swoony hero, sizzling chemistry and a bit of family drama woven in, this one is for you.
Lila Summers looks like she has it all together on paper. A solid career, a close-knit (if rather judgemental) family, and a boyfriend in finance who seems perfect… except he is eight hundred miles away and more off than on. It becomes very clear, very quickly, that Lila is just coasting through life and settling for far less than she deserves.
Enter John “Cal” Basset, newly traded NFL tight end. Their meet-cute is the sort that makes you smile into the page. Lila literally falls into him and he is there again when she needs saving from an over-friendly encounter at the club. Their connection is instant and impossible to ignore, even though both of them are juggling their own baggage.
Cal is in a new city, finding his rhythm with a new team, and working through complicated family issues. Lila is stuck in a relationship with Dennis (who I absolutely hated) and genuinely believes she does not deserve more than being treated as second best. Watching her slowly realise she is worthy of love and respect was so satisfying, and I was cheering when she finally put Dennis behind her.
The romance is full of lovely moments. Cal is clearly besotted but never pushes Lila too hard, and their “only one bed” scenario was one of my favourite parts. The push and pull between them felt real, with both navigating insecurities and family pressures, yet when they finally decide to give it a proper go, it is incredibly sweet.
The ending left me with a bit of a grin. It was just the right amount of tease, while still feeling like a proper happy ending.
Overall, False Start is flirty, emotional and very readable. I enjoyed every minute.
September 7, 2025
I loved this book, it was sweet, yet angsty with just the right balance between chemistry and plot. There’s sort of a black cat x golden retriever trope. Lila is the girl with an on and off toxic relationship and Cal is the new guy to the friend group who’s hopelessly pining for her. Both of them have unresolved trauma and secrets to hide, but they’ll have to bring them to light for their relationship. The plot was really great, nothing shocking but I loved the direction and flow of the story. I’m also in love with the author's writing, especially Cal’s POV because it’s quite comedic. And I actually love how a lot of the falling action, and ending of the book focused on the sport itself. Lots of great descriptions and I may actually want to watch the SuperBowl next year. And as if her great writing didn’t win me over, then mentioning that a kpop boy group was a halftime show was the cherry on top. I would love to know who she had in mind (please be stray kids🙏🙏, I’m trying to manifest it). I found this book and the characters really realistic, like how Cal didn’t fully go rogue on his dad because of Lila, and how Lila wouldn’t let go of what was best for her even though it clashed with Cal. They made a good compromise and I think that’s really important. As well as how we see the families together in the end, it’s clear they sort of made up, but they didn’t become perfect in a flash. But by far my favourite thing was that the whole plot wasn’t Dennis being the toxic ex that haunts them. Because yes it’s such an overused trope now. And also it might be because I read so much dark, kinky smut but the smut in this book was so wholesome and even quite emotional for me. So yeah it appears I like my smut with emotions sometimes too. Anyways I loved this and give it a 4.5/5
September 3, 2025
Thank you, Lillian Lyle and Love Notes PR, for this ARC of The False Start. If you are looking to enter into your sports romance era, then this is a great book to start with. The book was easy to read and enjoyable.
The banter and tension between Lila and Cal is spot on. I love that the one bed trope is slipped in there too. This story is a prime example of putting in the work for your relationship. Once they were “all in” with each other the love shared between them unfolded nicely. I can also appreciate the no 3rd act break up. They both loved each other out loud once they admitted it to themselves and each other.
I have to give a shout out to the author for actually including some actual sports scenes into the story. A lot of the sport books I have read lately have glossed over the actual sport practices and games. When reading those scenes, you can picture what is happening on the football field and feel the energy off the pages.
By the end of the story, it all felt rushed. I feel like a lot was left unanswered. I am not sure if all of those loose ends were intentional, over simply overlooked. I want to know more! More about Katie and LA, Maggie, Lila’s mother, the new baby, and literally the very end. As I was finishing the story I was looking and only had 10 pages to go and a lot that I felt still needed to happen to end the book. I was hoping for an extended epilogue but did not get it. Maybe all of that was intended to leave the story line open for additional books, but I just wanted the story to continue! I hope in the future we get to see more of Cal and Lila.
The banter and tension between Lila and Cal is spot on. I love that the one bed trope is slipped in there too. This story is a prime example of putting in the work for your relationship. Once they were “all in” with each other the love shared between them unfolded nicely. I can also appreciate the no 3rd act break up. They both loved each other out loud once they admitted it to themselves and each other.
I have to give a shout out to the author for actually including some actual sports scenes into the story. A lot of the sport books I have read lately have glossed over the actual sport practices and games. When reading those scenes, you can picture what is happening on the football field and feel the energy off the pages.
By the end of the story, it all felt rushed. I feel like a lot was left unanswered. I am not sure if all of those loose ends were intentional, over simply overlooked. I want to know more! More about Katie and LA, Maggie, Lila’s mother, the new baby, and literally the very end. As I was finishing the story I was looking and only had 10 pages to go and a lot that I felt still needed to happen to end the book. I was hoping for an extended epilogue but did not get it. Maybe all of that was intended to leave the story line open for additional books, but I just wanted the story to continue! I hope in the future we get to see more of Cal and Lila.
September 9, 2025
The False Start is Lillian’s debut novel. It follows Lila Summers and John “Cal” Basset.
This was a great debut and a very enjoyable read. I will say it did take me some time to warm up to Lila. She had been in an on-and-off again relationship with a man who did not deserve or respect her and I was not a fan of the drama. She did have a lot of growth over the course of the book and really became a more confident person. Now Cal on the other hand I loved him from the start. He was such a cinnamon roll who deserves the world. He took one look at Lila and knew that she was the one for him but she had been in a relationship so he took what he could at first which was friendship. I loved Lila and Cal’s relationship and the evolution because they started as strangers but ended as lovers.
The only downside I found with this book was that the ending felt very rushed. There was an epilogue but it wasn’t titled that so it almost left me to believe there was more that was supposed to happen. There also seemed to be no resolution with some of the conflicts which I would have really loved to see.
Overall, I did enjoy their story and I hope we get to see more from Lila, Cal, and their group of friends.
You will enjoy this book if you like the following:
- Sports (football)
- Friends to lovers
- Found family
- One bed
- Hand necklaces
- No third-act breakup
Thank you so much, Lillian Lyle and Love Notes PR for the gifted copy!
This was a great debut and a very enjoyable read. I will say it did take me some time to warm up to Lila. She had been in an on-and-off again relationship with a man who did not deserve or respect her and I was not a fan of the drama. She did have a lot of growth over the course of the book and really became a more confident person. Now Cal on the other hand I loved him from the start. He was such a cinnamon roll who deserves the world. He took one look at Lila and knew that she was the one for him but she had been in a relationship so he took what he could at first which was friendship. I loved Lila and Cal’s relationship and the evolution because they started as strangers but ended as lovers.
The only downside I found with this book was that the ending felt very rushed. There was an epilogue but it wasn’t titled that so it almost left me to believe there was more that was supposed to happen. There also seemed to be no resolution with some of the conflicts which I would have really loved to see.
Overall, I did enjoy their story and I hope we get to see more from Lila, Cal, and their group of friends.
You will enjoy this book if you like the following:
- Sports (football)
- Friends to lovers
- Found family
- One bed
- Hand necklaces
- No third-act breakup
Thank you so much, Lillian Lyle and Love Notes PR for the gifted copy!
September 11, 2025
The False Start es una novela romántica que atrapa por su frescura, su tensión emocional, y un reparto de personajes con los que es fácil empatizar. La historia gira alrededor de Lila, una joven que se ve envuelta en un torbellino de sentimientos a partir de una noche inesperada: invitada a una fiesta por su mejor amiga, de Theo, cliente de aquella amiga y su amigo de toda la vida de la infancia, pero lo que menos espera es encontrarse con Cal. Cal, encantador, un “match” instantáneo. Hasta aquí lo “normal” en muchos romances… pero hay un problema: Lila está en una situación sentimental confusa, pareja, ex-pareja, presente no definido, lo que ensombrece cualquier posibilidad de “cuento de hadas” inmediato.
Lo que sigue es una mezcla entre amistad & tensión sexual, entre lo que se dice y lo que se calla, entre lo que se desea y lo que el pasado (y las dudas) permiten. La novela está narrada en primera persona desde ambos puntos de vista, lo que le da profundidad al conflicto interno de los protagonistas y hace que, como lector, puedas vivir sus inseguridades, sus vacilaciones, sus deseos no declarados.
El libro me enganchó desde el primer capítulo y lo disfruté mucho más de lo esperado. La conexión entre Lila y Cal me pareció natural y muy tierna, con una tensión que mantiene las ganas de seguir leyendo. Es de esos libros que se leen rápido y dejan con una sonrisa al cerrarlos.
Lo que sigue es una mezcla entre amistad & tensión sexual, entre lo que se dice y lo que se calla, entre lo que se desea y lo que el pasado (y las dudas) permiten. La novela está narrada en primera persona desde ambos puntos de vista, lo que le da profundidad al conflicto interno de los protagonistas y hace que, como lector, puedas vivir sus inseguridades, sus vacilaciones, sus deseos no declarados.
El libro me enganchó desde el primer capítulo y lo disfruté mucho más de lo esperado. La conexión entre Lila y Cal me pareció natural y muy tierna, con una tensión que mantiene las ganas de seguir leyendo. Es de esos libros que se leen rápido y dejan con una sonrisa al cerrarlos.
September 12, 2025
Who doesn’t love a good sports romance? The hero is usually built like a god and willing to do anything for the woman he loves—and The False Start by Lillian Lyle delivers exactly that.
Lila has been stuck in an on-again, off-again relationship with Dennis, a complete piece of work. After years of ups and downs, she finally calls it quits for good. Stepping in to help her rediscover herself is Cal, an NFL player and a close friend of her circle.
If you love when the guy falls first and is patient enough to wait while the heroine figures things out, this book will be right up your alley. Both Lila and Cal also deal with toxic family dynamics, so watching them find strength and a sense of belonging in their found family of friends was really heartwarming.
Lila especially resonated with me. Her toxic relationship with Dennis reminded me of someone I know, and I couldn’t help but cheer when she finally walked away. Every time Dennis tried to belittle her or sweep his behavior under the rug, I found myself getting angry on her behalf.
The supporting characters, Theo and Katie, were another highlight. I truly hope they each get their own stories—I’d love to see where their journeys lead. And is it bad that I kind of want their friendship to turn into something more?
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Lillian Lyle for the ARC of The False Start.
Lila has been stuck in an on-again, off-again relationship with Dennis, a complete piece of work. After years of ups and downs, she finally calls it quits for good. Stepping in to help her rediscover herself is Cal, an NFL player and a close friend of her circle.
If you love when the guy falls first and is patient enough to wait while the heroine figures things out, this book will be right up your alley. Both Lila and Cal also deal with toxic family dynamics, so watching them find strength and a sense of belonging in their found family of friends was really heartwarming.
Lila especially resonated with me. Her toxic relationship with Dennis reminded me of someone I know, and I couldn’t help but cheer when she finally walked away. Every time Dennis tried to belittle her or sweep his behavior under the rug, I found myself getting angry on her behalf.
The supporting characters, Theo and Katie, were another highlight. I truly hope they each get their own stories—I’d love to see where their journeys lead. And is it bad that I kind of want their friendship to turn into something more?
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Lillian Lyle for the ARC of The False Start.
August 21, 2025
"You're it for me. I dont See a life where you aren't right there with me. Where you go, I'll follow, even if it's to the ends of the earth."
Firstly, thank you so much Lillian Lyle for sending me this eARC copy.
I just finished The False Start and I could not put this book down. Lila and Cal's story is everything- fun with undeniable chemistry and just the right amount of spice. The way Cal went out of his way just to make sure Lila knew he was single had me grinning like an idiot, and the fact that he called her 'love' even they were just friends? I was literally kicking my feet.
Lila is such a strong, relatable heroine, balancing family pressure, career stress and complicated relationships, while Cal is the perfect mix of swoony, determined and vulnerable. He may have had baggage but his devotion to Lila was perfectly clear from the start. That woman had him wrapped around her finger before they even began dating and I was there for it.
The writing was engaging and the emotional depth gave the story a real weight, beyond the swoon worthy moments.
If you love a sports romance with heartfelt emotion, and a hero who will ruin you for anyone else... run and pre order this right now.
Firstly, thank you so much Lillian Lyle for sending me this eARC copy.
I just finished The False Start and I could not put this book down. Lila and Cal's story is everything- fun with undeniable chemistry and just the right amount of spice. The way Cal went out of his way just to make sure Lila knew he was single had me grinning like an idiot, and the fact that he called her 'love' even they were just friends? I was literally kicking my feet.
Lila is such a strong, relatable heroine, balancing family pressure, career stress and complicated relationships, while Cal is the perfect mix of swoony, determined and vulnerable. He may have had baggage but his devotion to Lila was perfectly clear from the start. That woman had him wrapped around her finger before they even began dating and I was there for it.
The writing was engaging and the emotional depth gave the story a real weight, beyond the swoon worthy moments.
If you love a sports romance with heartfelt emotion, and a hero who will ruin you for anyone else... run and pre order this right now.
August 25, 2025
3.75⭐️ 3 🌶️
Man does this book take you for a lot of events very quickly. For someone in her mid thirties with a thriving career, you’d think that Lila would be smart enough to see through the BS her on and off boyfriend of many years. It took someone sweeping her off her feet as a friend to show her she deserves more and even then she couldn’t fully figure out what she was for herself. Their mutual friends kept putting them in scenarios to clearly put them together because they thought they were a good fit for each other, so you know its bad when their friends are stepping in like girl figure out what you want because we don’t want either of you to get hurt but its also not fair to him. Honestly, I understand what she may have been going through in her head and she definitely should’ve taken more time to herself. Especially when dealing with what seemed like a narcissist for so many years. I think everything worked out the way it was supposed to and bless Cal for having patience and being a great friend and gentleman. He was so sure in himself and in his convictions and so great at constantly reassuring her when needed. The story as a whole comes together quickly and amazingly with real life factors that are constantly testing us. Overall, its a great story!
Man does this book take you for a lot of events very quickly. For someone in her mid thirties with a thriving career, you’d think that Lila would be smart enough to see through the BS her on and off boyfriend of many years. It took someone sweeping her off her feet as a friend to show her she deserves more and even then she couldn’t fully figure out what she was for herself. Their mutual friends kept putting them in scenarios to clearly put them together because they thought they were a good fit for each other, so you know its bad when their friends are stepping in like girl figure out what you want because we don’t want either of you to get hurt but its also not fair to him. Honestly, I understand what she may have been going through in her head and she definitely should’ve taken more time to herself. Especially when dealing with what seemed like a narcissist for so many years. I think everything worked out the way it was supposed to and bless Cal for having patience and being a great friend and gentleman. He was so sure in himself and in his convictions and so great at constantly reassuring her when needed. The story as a whole comes together quickly and amazingly with real life factors that are constantly testing us. Overall, its a great story!
September 7, 2025
The story centers on Cal, a charming football player, who finds himself instantly drawn to Lila. The only problem? Lila is caught in a confusing, long-distance relationship that keeps Cal at a distance, forcing their connection to blossom into a tentative friendship built on forced proximity.
What follows is a beautifully crafted friends-to-lovers story. The author expertly navigates the slow burn of their relationship, building a foundation of trust and genuine affection that makes their eventual union feel both earned and inevitable. When they finally get together, the transition feels so natural that Lila's own reluctance to fall fully in love becomes a deeply relatable source of tension.
Beyond the central couple, the book shines with its strong supporting cast of partners and friends who genuinely lift up the main characters. This isn't a story of manufactured drama. The book is a breath of fresh air, as it completely avoids the dreaded third-act breakup, instead focusing on the honest, sometimes messy, reality of two people simply falling for each other. It's a sweet, low-angst romance that feels like a warm hug. If you're looking for a football romance with all the heart and none of the unnecessary drama, this is a highly recommended read.
What follows is a beautifully crafted friends-to-lovers story. The author expertly navigates the slow burn of their relationship, building a foundation of trust and genuine affection that makes their eventual union feel both earned and inevitable. When they finally get together, the transition feels so natural that Lila's own reluctance to fall fully in love becomes a deeply relatable source of tension.
Beyond the central couple, the book shines with its strong supporting cast of partners and friends who genuinely lift up the main characters. This isn't a story of manufactured drama. The book is a breath of fresh air, as it completely avoids the dreaded third-act breakup, instead focusing on the honest, sometimes messy, reality of two people simply falling for each other. It's a sweet, low-angst romance that feels like a warm hug. If you're looking for a football romance with all the heart and none of the unnecessary drama, this is a highly recommended read.
September 10, 2025
Thanks to LoveNotes PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I’ll start with what I enjoyed: the chemistry between Lila and Cal was undeniable, and the spice definitely delivered. 🔥 The “only one bed” trope was easily my favorite part and everything with the jersey 'hot', it felt like the moment Lila truly let her guard down and reached for what she wanted. Cal being instantly smitten, possessive, and sexy worked well in those scenes.
Where it didn’t land as much for me was the character development. Lila is set up as a successful businesswoman still tied up in a toxic on-again, off-again relationship, and Cal comes into her world ready to give her everything. But the relationship progression felt a little uneven. They start out as mutual friends, then suddenly besties, and then quickly more, it almost felt like there were pieces of their story missing. While the physical connection was hot, the emotional side never fully clicked for me.
Overall, I’d say this one was steamy and fun in the moment, but not a story that stuck with me beyond the spice. A solid ⭐⭐ read for the heat factor alone.
💜 He Falls First & Harder
🏈 Sports Romance
🛏️ Only One Bed
🖐️ Jersey smut
✨ Possessive MMC
💋 “Good Girl” moments
🚫 Toxic parents and boyfriend
I’ll start with what I enjoyed: the chemistry between Lila and Cal was undeniable, and the spice definitely delivered. 🔥 The “only one bed” trope was easily my favorite part and everything with the jersey 'hot', it felt like the moment Lila truly let her guard down and reached for what she wanted. Cal being instantly smitten, possessive, and sexy worked well in those scenes.
Where it didn’t land as much for me was the character development. Lila is set up as a successful businesswoman still tied up in a toxic on-again, off-again relationship, and Cal comes into her world ready to give her everything. But the relationship progression felt a little uneven. They start out as mutual friends, then suddenly besties, and then quickly more, it almost felt like there were pieces of their story missing. While the physical connection was hot, the emotional side never fully clicked for me.
Overall, I’d say this one was steamy and fun in the moment, but not a story that stuck with me beyond the spice. A solid ⭐⭐ read for the heat factor alone.
💜 He Falls First & Harder
🏈 Sports Romance
🛏️ Only One Bed
🖐️ Jersey smut
✨ Possessive MMC
💋 “Good Girl” moments
🚫 Toxic parents and boyfriend
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