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The Cornerback's Chase
Senior cornerback Brandt Garrett loves his teammates and his family. The one thing that would make his life even better? If Joella Miller would agree to be his girlfriend.
A trumpet player in the band, Joella's first date with Brandt was a disaster. After getting to know one another better, and a second-chance date to homecoming, they begin dating.
But things aren't perfect as Brandt imagined. They find themselves navigating serious issues with family and friends.
Is their new relationship strong enough to withstand these trials?
The Cornerback's Chase is a spice-free YA football romance.
A trumpet player in the band, Joella's first date with Brandt was a disaster. After getting to know one another better, and a second-chance date to homecoming, they begin dating.
But things aren't perfect as Brandt imagined. They find themselves navigating serious issues with family and friends.
Is their new relationship strong enough to withstand these trials?
The Cornerback's Chase is a spice-free YA football romance.
443 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
4 people want to read
About the author
L.M. Ransom
25 books45 followersL. M. Ransom lives in a place called Blooming Valley, located not too far off the shores of Lake Michigan. She is married to her best friend, and they have two adult children. She shares her home with an older black merle Jackshund, who always keeps things interesting. L. M. works at the library in her hometown, mostly behind the scenes in the back room. She would love to have a real-life AT-AT from Star Wars, but is settling for her collection of Walkers in her home office (for now). She enjoys watching TV and movies with her family. She adores The Big Bang Theory, Brooklyn 99, and The Middle, and she absolutely loves writing young adult romance. You can find L. M. on Instagram, Threads, and X at @lmransomwrites.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
September 15, 2025
I ADORE THEIR NICKNAMES!
Okay, I’ve calmed down now. But also, their shared interest in Lord of the Rings & ensuing conversations and activities around said interest made me so happy.
(Side story, when I first was introduced to and fell into complete obsession with LOTR, I was frustratingly posed the question from a relative “What if your future husband doesn’t approve of LOTR? Will you still marry him or choose LOTR?” First of all, How Dare. Second, I was 13. Third, if someone doesn’t approve of LOTR, how are we close enough friends to have even lead to anything of a romantic relationship???)
Anywayyyy…I really appreciated the way a lot of real and difficult situations were portrayed in this story. Every single one of L. M. Ransom’s books has such genuine, mature (some less than others, but often the full grown adults are even more less so than the) teenagers. It’s such a trying stage to be in, and I never like it when older adults belittle or overlook that stage compared to their own present.
Brandt & Joella are so good together. A very heathy relationship amongst others in their lives that are not.
Okay, I’ve calmed down now. But also, their shared interest in Lord of the Rings & ensuing conversations and activities around said interest made me so happy.
(Side story, when I first was introduced to and fell into complete obsession with LOTR, I was frustratingly posed the question from a relative “What if your future husband doesn’t approve of LOTR? Will you still marry him or choose LOTR?” First of all, How Dare. Second, I was 13. Third, if someone doesn’t approve of LOTR, how are we close enough friends to have even lead to anything of a romantic relationship???)
Anywayyyy…I really appreciated the way a lot of real and difficult situations were portrayed in this story. Every single one of L. M. Ransom’s books has such genuine, mature (some less than others, but often the full grown adults are even more less so than the) teenagers. It’s such a trying stage to be in, and I never like it when older adults belittle or overlook that stage compared to their own present.
Brandt & Joella are so good together. A very heathy relationship amongst others in their lives that are not.
September 15, 2025
Wow, where to begin? Firstly, this is another amazing book written by L.M. Ransom. I loved Fall Fervor, so I was really looking forward to getting to know more of her characters.
The Cornerback’s Chase is the 5th in the Sullivan Cougars series. It can be read as a standalone, although there are plenty of recurring characters, so if you haven’t read the other books before this one, you will probably want to by the time you reach the end!
Joella and Brandt were so good together. I love it when we get to see characters get together and still have plenty of time in the book to see them actually be together. Both Brandt and Joella had a lot going on in their lives, and it was great to see the pair work through it all as a team.
Brandt is such a genuine person, and it was nice to see his thought processes, especially when it led to personal growth. Meanwhile, Joella learnt how to stand up for herself, which we love to see.
L.M. Ransom maintained her immersive writing style, and she has an exceptional ability to draw emotional responses from her readers (Aunt Vi and Avery were driving me up the wall – you’ll see!)
The Cornerback’s Chase is the 5th in the Sullivan Cougars series. It can be read as a standalone, although there are plenty of recurring characters, so if you haven’t read the other books before this one, you will probably want to by the time you reach the end!
Joella and Brandt were so good together. I love it when we get to see characters get together and still have plenty of time in the book to see them actually be together. Both Brandt and Joella had a lot going on in their lives, and it was great to see the pair work through it all as a team.
Brandt is such a genuine person, and it was nice to see his thought processes, especially when it led to personal growth. Meanwhile, Joella learnt how to stand up for herself, which we love to see.
L.M. Ransom maintained her immersive writing style, and she has an exceptional ability to draw emotional responses from her readers (Aunt Vi and Avery were driving me up the wall – you’ll see!)
August 21, 2025
Wow. I absolutely adored this book! It has all the adorable, fluffy but real feels of two high schoolers falling in love, but there was also some serious tension and drama that quickly tipped toward dangerous circumstances that will keep you on your toes even as you cheer for protective Brandt and sweet Joella as they grow individually and as a couple. They are both so sweet and fiercely loyal, and this book is filled with their innocent love. ❤️
I also really loved the camaraderie between them and their friends, specifically the football team, the GG’s, and Joella’s bandmates! There was one scene in particular that really made my heart happy with the GG’s, but I won’t spoil it for ya. Just know there is some serious brotherhood and sisterhood vibes that you won’t want to miss! 💜🏈🎺
I would totally recommend this book for a heartfelt read anytime of the year, but all the cozy flannel and hot drink mentions would make it perfect for a fall mood read! 🥰🍁
I also really loved the camaraderie between them and their friends, specifically the football team, the GG’s, and Joella’s bandmates! There was one scene in particular that really made my heart happy with the GG’s, but I won’t spoil it for ya. Just know there is some serious brotherhood and sisterhood vibes that you won’t want to miss! 💜🏈🎺
I would totally recommend this book for a heartfelt read anytime of the year, but all the cozy flannel and hot drink mentions would make it perfect for a fall mood read! 🥰🍁
September 4, 2025
Man, this team went through it in this book! I always enjoy reading L.M. Ransom's books because she has a knack for bringing all the nostalgia and cozy vibes, while still being unafraid to tackle tough topics. Brandt is a very caring and protective MMC, but he has a bit of perfectionism, which I think caused some issues for him when things weren't *perfect*. His girl, band player Joella (love that name) is a shy and quiet girl but is by no means weak. I loved how well these two communicated with one another and were each other's support systems as they navigated some really tough things. I would recommend this to anyone who loves football, protective MMCs, and cozy fall vibes.
September 30, 2025
Another AMAZING book from L.M. Ransom!! She has such a way of bringing the cast to life with all of their quirks and interests, which makes them feel like friends, rather than characters.
Brandt and Joella (as do all of Linda's characters) go through real struggles that leave you with no choice but to continue reading, because even though you know it's going to be an HEA, you HAVE to read every last page of their story. Their book was beautifully crafted, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Honorable mention is the LOTR references! If you get it, you get it! 😉😂
Brandt and Joella (as do all of Linda's characters) go through real struggles that leave you with no choice but to continue reading, because even though you know it's going to be an HEA, you HAVE to read every last page of their story. Their book was beautifully crafted, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Honorable mention is the LOTR references! If you get it, you get it! 😉😂
September 16, 2025
I. LOVED. EVERY. WORD.
L.M’s sports romance tackles real-life high school drama and serious challenges without being too explicit. It is the fifth book in the Sullivan Cougars series, but it can be read on its own too. I will only give away one spoiler…(my favorite part of the whole story). I love when Joella finally stands up to her aunt. Durning a point of the book I had thought, why doesn’t she just tell her off and put her in her place. But then i remembered how life works and how unfair it can be. Growing up the way I did I can understand where Joella is coming from, L.M gives people who is struggling with abuse a sense of peace that there are happy endings its not always bad. I also think Brandt is amazing with Joella….they are a perfect match made. 5 out of 5 must read
L.M’s sports romance tackles real-life high school drama and serious challenges without being too explicit. It is the fifth book in the Sullivan Cougars series, but it can be read on its own too. I will only give away one spoiler…(my favorite part of the whole story). I love when Joella finally stands up to her aunt. Durning a point of the book I had thought, why doesn’t she just tell her off and put her in her place. But then i remembered how life works and how unfair it can be. Growing up the way I did I can understand where Joella is coming from, L.M gives people who is struggling with abuse a sense of peace that there are happy endings its not always bad. I also think Brandt is amazing with Joella….they are a perfect match made. 5 out of 5 must read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2025
Another fantastic addition to The Sullivan Cougars series!
I love the way this author weaves real life, serious issues into her young adult romance books! Yes, there are plenty of adorably sweet moments between the main characters, but readers also get plenty of drama and tension.
Brandt is a sweet, protective MMC! All of The Sullivan Cougars books features MMCs who are protective, but I never tire of watching a hero stand up for his girl. In addition to dealing with complicated family matters (looking at you, Connor!), Brandt was able to keep his head. He also had a mixed relationship with his ex. All too often, the ex's in books are branded as terrible, but I appreciated the was Brandt could still see the good in Brigette.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was the way that we as readers get to experience Joella (the FMC) as she finds her voice and stands up for herself. There were so many times I wanted to beg her to put her foot down in the beginning of the story, but by the end it was so worth it to see her growth! I'm also a sucker for band kids, so that was a definite plus in my book!
If you're a fan of sweet romances that give all the cozy nostalgia of high school, I would absolutely recommend this book (and anything else written by L.M. Ransom)!
I love the way this author weaves real life, serious issues into her young adult romance books! Yes, there are plenty of adorably sweet moments between the main characters, but readers also get plenty of drama and tension.
Brandt is a sweet, protective MMC! All of The Sullivan Cougars books features MMCs who are protective, but I never tire of watching a hero stand up for his girl. In addition to dealing with complicated family matters (looking at you, Connor!), Brandt was able to keep his head. He also had a mixed relationship with his ex. All too often, the ex's in books are branded as terrible, but I appreciated the was Brandt could still see the good in Brigette.
One of my favorite aspects of this story was the way that we as readers get to experience Joella (the FMC) as she finds her voice and stands up for herself. There were so many times I wanted to beg her to put her foot down in the beginning of the story, but by the end it was so worth it to see her growth! I'm also a sucker for band kids, so that was a definite plus in my book!
If you're a fan of sweet romances that give all the cozy nostalgia of high school, I would absolutely recommend this book (and anything else written by L.M. Ransom)!
October 22, 2025
Another 5 star read from the Author! This is book 5 in the Sullivan Cougars series, and I can still remember reading the first book in the series.
Brandt is one heck of a protector and if you know me, you I LOVE that in an MMC. He’s strong in body and mind, and I instantly loved getting to know him better. Joella reminds me of me in some ways; she may be timid at times, but that doesn’t mean she is timid in her values or life. I think the two of them together made the cutest couple ever!
They both find themselves running into real world, large problems that require them to lean on each other and their friends. I will say, there are some characters who exhibit very toxic traits that lead to them and others getting hurt. Alcohol and violence are some of the themes mentioned.
If you’re looking for a series filled with strong MCs who love each other and their friends, this is the one for you! A beloved YA sports romance with zero spice but ALL of the romance, humor, sports and feels.
Brandt is one heck of a protector and if you know me, you I LOVE that in an MMC. He’s strong in body and mind, and I instantly loved getting to know him better. Joella reminds me of me in some ways; she may be timid at times, but that doesn’t mean she is timid in her values or life. I think the two of them together made the cutest couple ever!
They both find themselves running into real world, large problems that require them to lean on each other and their friends. I will say, there are some characters who exhibit very toxic traits that lead to them and others getting hurt. Alcohol and violence are some of the themes mentioned.
If you’re looking for a series filled with strong MCs who love each other and their friends, this is the one for you! A beloved YA sports romance with zero spice but ALL of the romance, humor, sports and feels.
August 29, 2025
The Cornerback's Chase is part of LM Ransom's Sullivan Cougars series about a group of HS football players and their girlfriends. Sweet Joella is the newest girl to the group. She begins dating Brandt and he finds himself protecting her during a few scary moments. In return, she is there to comfort him when he has family drama overwhelms him.
These two are a great couple together and within the bigger circle of friends. They are a small family that looks after and protects one another. The realities of high school are evident throughout. Brace yourself. The antagonists (there are a few), will make you very angry. They are memorable, revealing Ms. Ransom's talent in bringing the villains to life.
I recommend this book to everyone!
These two are a great couple together and within the bigger circle of friends. They are a small family that looks after and protects one another. The realities of high school are evident throughout. Brace yourself. The antagonists (there are a few), will make you very angry. They are memorable, revealing Ms. Ransom's talent in bringing the villains to life.
I recommend this book to everyone!
September 16, 2025
L.M. Ransom did it again! I loved The Cornerback's Chase and Brandt and Joella. Brandt was so sweet and such a good friend/boyfriend. Joella was super fun and I enjoyed watching her stand up for herself in the end. I also loved all the Percy Jackson and Lord of the Rings references. Someday, I would love to see a bonus scene with the hobbit and elf costumes that were mentioned... Brandt and Joella would be adorable in them! I definitely recommend The Cornerback's Chase and the rest of The Sullivan Cougars books.
October 26, 2025
📚ARC REVIEW 📚
The Cornerback’s Chase ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I adore books by L.M. Ransom! She writes such good young adult characters and their struggles. I loved Brandt and the way he takes care of Joella. I also liked how Joella finally stood her ground and her character growth. They were such a cute couple and worked thru their struggles together. There are some hard topics discussed in this book, but it was handled with care. Overall, I enjoyed this one!
This book is already out. Thank you to the author for my advanced reader’s copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
The Cornerback’s Chase ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I adore books by L.M. Ransom! She writes such good young adult characters and their struggles. I loved Brandt and the way he takes care of Joella. I also liked how Joella finally stood her ground and her character growth. They were such a cute couple and worked thru their struggles together. There are some hard topics discussed in this book, but it was handled with care. Overall, I enjoyed this one!
This book is already out. Thank you to the author for my advanced reader’s copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews