What do you think?
Rate this book
Rampage Football #2
Side Lined
Noah Abbott is the Rampage’s unbreakable wall—big, quiet, protective. The man who keeps his team safe.
He’s also the man who never got over Emily Sanders—his college almost, his late-night laughter, the girl he wanted but never claimed.
When they reconnect at a Central State alumni event, the attraction is immediate. Familiar. Explosive. For the first time in years, Noah thinks he might get a second chance.
Then his sister dies and her will makes Noah guardian of her five-year-old son.
Now Noah is fighting on every front—grief, a custody battle, and a little boy who needs him more than the spotlight ever did. Emily refuses to walk away, especially when her design business lands a contract with the Rampage and forces them into close quarters.
He’s built to take hits. He’s not built to ask for help.
But Emily is all in…even when his walls are up, even when the court dates pile up, even when love feels like one more risk he can’t afford.
Because this time, Noah isn’t playing to win. He’s playing to keep his family.
And Em? She’s fighting to finally be chosen.
Side Lined is a standalone romance with unrequited love, friends to lovers, second chance, roommates, work place romance.
He’s also the man who never got over Emily Sanders—his college almost, his late-night laughter, the girl he wanted but never claimed.
When they reconnect at a Central State alumni event, the attraction is immediate. Familiar. Explosive. For the first time in years, Noah thinks he might get a second chance.
Then his sister dies and her will makes Noah guardian of her five-year-old son.
Now Noah is fighting on every front—grief, a custody battle, and a little boy who needs him more than the spotlight ever did. Emily refuses to walk away, especially when her design business lands a contract with the Rampage and forces them into close quarters.
He’s built to take hits. He’s not built to ask for help.
But Emily is all in…even when his walls are up, even when the court dates pile up, even when love feels like one more risk he can’t afford.
Because this time, Noah isn’t playing to win. He’s playing to keep his family.
And Em? She’s fighting to finally be chosen.
Side Lined is a standalone romance with unrequited love, friends to lovers, second chance, roommates, work place romance.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2026
About the author
Jaqueline Snowe
39 books1,308 followersJaqueline Snowe lives in Arizona where the "dry heat" really isn't that bad. She prefers drinking coffee all hours of the day and snacking on anything that has peanut butter or chocolate. She is the mother to two dogs who don’t realize they aren’t humans and a = mom to the sweetest boy. She is an avid reader and writer of romances and tends to write about athletes. Her husband works for an MLB team (not a player, lol) so she knows more about baseball than any human ever should.
Join my newsletter--> https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Join my newsletter--> https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
June 8, 2026
4.5🌟, 3🌶️
I am still reeling from how much I loved this story.
The writing is absolutely beautiful, and I found myself highlighting dozens of lines because the characters just knew exactly how to voice their feelings. Being such a huge fan of the best-friends-to-lovers trope, I was completely hooked by Noah and Emily’s journey right from the start. Noah is the ultimate dream guy because he is so protective, kind, and truly sees Emily for who she is. Watching them navigate being roommates and finally realizing they were meant to be together felt incredibly earned and satisfying.
Beyond the romance, the found family aspect really tugged at my heartstrings. Noah stepping up to take care of his nephew, Miles, was such a beautiful and emotional anchor to the story, and watching Emily bond with them felt so natural and real. Plus, Sassy the dog added the perfect touch of charm to every scene she was in. I felt everything while reading this, from the butterflies of their slow burn to the tears over their struggles.
I can say without a doubt that this has become one of my favorite reads.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Jaqueline Snowe & Love Notes PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
I am still reeling from how much I loved this story.
The writing is absolutely beautiful, and I found myself highlighting dozens of lines because the characters just knew exactly how to voice their feelings. Being such a huge fan of the best-friends-to-lovers trope, I was completely hooked by Noah and Emily’s journey right from the start. Noah is the ultimate dream guy because he is so protective, kind, and truly sees Emily for who she is. Watching them navigate being roommates and finally realizing they were meant to be together felt incredibly earned and satisfying.
Beyond the romance, the found family aspect really tugged at my heartstrings. Noah stepping up to take care of his nephew, Miles, was such a beautiful and emotional anchor to the story, and watching Emily bond with them felt so natural and real. Plus, Sassy the dog added the perfect touch of charm to every scene she was in. I felt everything while reading this, from the butterflies of their slow burn to the tears over their struggles.
I can say without a doubt that this has become one of my favorite reads.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Jaqueline Snowe & Love Notes PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
May 30, 2026
Thank you so much for the arc!
Noah and Em’s story brought me joy! We have yearning, friends to lovers, and found family. These two main characters work hard to make their dreams come true and the support they offer each other is top tier!
Noah is a professional athlete (yay football) who is grieving the loss of his sister while also raising her son (Miles is the sweetest little human). His parents are going against his sister’s wishes and trying to start a custody battle for their grandson, driving a wedge between them and their son.
Em is a sports fashion designer with the best dog (five stars for Sassy) and she is struggling to prove herself to her parents (and herself). But when she gets an amazing opportunity, her siblings (and the team)step in to help!
I gave this book 4 stars, I thought Noah was one of the sweetest men that I’ve ever read. I loved Em and Sassy’s connection with Miles, it was so genuine! I’m excited to read more books by this author. ☺️
Noah and Em’s story brought me joy! We have yearning, friends to lovers, and found family. These two main characters work hard to make their dreams come true and the support they offer each other is top tier!
Noah is a professional athlete (yay football) who is grieving the loss of his sister while also raising her son (Miles is the sweetest little human). His parents are going against his sister’s wishes and trying to start a custody battle for their grandson, driving a wedge between them and their son.
Em is a sports fashion designer with the best dog (five stars for Sassy) and she is struggling to prove herself to her parents (and herself). But when she gets an amazing opportunity, her siblings (and the team)step in to help!
I gave this book 4 stars, I thought Noah was one of the sweetest men that I’ve ever read. I loved Em and Sassy’s connection with Miles, it was so genuine! I’m excited to read more books by this author. ☺️
June 1, 2026
4 Stars for this Jaqueline Snowe Rampage book.
There was not much football in the book, it is a friends-to-lovers trope, which is one of my favorites. Both main characters suffer not living up to their parent’s expectations, but in spite of that, thrived with their chosen passion.
Sassy plays a main role as an emotional support dog for both Emily and Miles. The book is dedicated to Snowe’s dog who crossed the rainbow bridge this year. Emily is forever pushing up her glasses, which I believe is a nod to Snowe herself.
I love how much Noah wants to take care of Emily.
There was not much football in the book, it is a friends-to-lovers trope, which is one of my favorites. Both main characters suffer not living up to their parent’s expectations, but in spite of that, thrived with their chosen passion.
Sassy plays a main role as an emotional support dog for both Emily and Miles. The book is dedicated to Snowe’s dog who crossed the rainbow bridge this year. Emily is forever pushing up her glasses, which I believe is a nod to Snowe herself.
I love how much Noah wants to take care of Emily.
July 1, 2026
Rating: 4.5/5
Thanks to @lovenotes.pr and @jaquelinesnowe for the #gifted copy of this book. 🫶
My Thoughts: Ohh, I loved the friendship between Em and Noah- best of friends reunited with a side of sizzling tension. From the moment Em and Noah reconnected at their college reunion, I couldn't put this book down. However, I was soooo mad at Noah for not calling Em that night. Because of his mistake, it takes them even longer to begin where they left off.
Em is on the verge of something so big with her clothing line, but she needs the push Noah gives her the night of the reunion. I love that from the very beginning of this book, Noah is 100% committed to seeing Em's dreams come to reality. Not only did Noah support Em's ambitions, but those around her did too—all she had to do was ask.
And then there's Noah... Golly, I loved him so much. He had so much thrown at him at once, but he had the best friend group to keep him going. Despite being a pro football player, Noah didn't hesitate to become guardian of his nephew Miles, which only made me love him more. When Em comes to stay with them, she folds seamlessly into their routine, becoming the little family they were always meant to be.
I'm loving this series and can't wait to see what's next. Be sure to check this one out... It can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend just reading both books that are already out.
What You'll Find:
🤭Friends to Lovers
💞Second Chance
🥰 Unrequited Love
🧡Roommates
💌 Always Been Her
Thanks to @lovenotes.pr and @jaquelinesnowe for the #gifted copy of this book. 🫶
My Thoughts: Ohh, I loved the friendship between Em and Noah- best of friends reunited with a side of sizzling tension. From the moment Em and Noah reconnected at their college reunion, I couldn't put this book down. However, I was soooo mad at Noah for not calling Em that night. Because of his mistake, it takes them even longer to begin where they left off.
Em is on the verge of something so big with her clothing line, but she needs the push Noah gives her the night of the reunion. I love that from the very beginning of this book, Noah is 100% committed to seeing Em's dreams come to reality. Not only did Noah support Em's ambitions, but those around her did too—all she had to do was ask.
And then there's Noah... Golly, I loved him so much. He had so much thrown at him at once, but he had the best friend group to keep him going. Despite being a pro football player, Noah didn't hesitate to become guardian of his nephew Miles, which only made me love him more. When Em comes to stay with them, she folds seamlessly into their routine, becoming the little family they were always meant to be.
I'm loving this series and can't wait to see what's next. Be sure to check this one out... It can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend just reading both books that are already out.
What You'll Find:
🤭Friends to Lovers
💞Second Chance
🥰 Unrequited Love
🧡Roommates
💌 Always Been Her
June 1, 2026
ARC Review
Thank you LoveNotes PR & Jacqueline Snowe for my advance copy!
I read this book blindly just because it caught my interest A LOT and it definitely exceeded my expectations A LOT. I was already hooked during the first few chapters. The writing and the story was beautifully written and I literally have 34 ANNOTATIONS from the book! I loved a lot of the lines of the characters and I cannot express how much they both worded out their feelings so good!
I am such a sucker for best friends to lovers and this book did it so well 🥹 you can FEEL Noah’s yearning since the beginning and he is literally every girl’s dream because he is someone who SEES you and KNOWS you. They are the perfect pair.
The writing is just so so beautiful!! The pacing too and I like how it wasn’t rushed or slow, it’s just right. Their love story felt right.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you LoveNotes PR & Jacqueline Snowe for my advance copy!
I read this book blindly just because it caught my interest A LOT and it definitely exceeded my expectations A LOT. I was already hooked during the first few chapters. The writing and the story was beautifully written and I literally have 34 ANNOTATIONS from the book! I loved a lot of the lines of the characters and I cannot express how much they both worded out their feelings so good!
I am such a sucker for best friends to lovers and this book did it so well 🥹 you can FEEL Noah’s yearning since the beginning and he is literally every girl’s dream because he is someone who SEES you and KNOWS you. They are the perfect pair.
The writing is just so so beautiful!! The pacing too and I like how it wasn’t rushed or slow, it’s just right. Their love story felt right.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 21, 2026
I was excited to head into Noah’s story after Game Stopper. But what I was not prepared is to cry while reading this one!
The friends to lovers just always gets me. These two both feel bigger feelings than just friends. But never say anything. After a night at their college Alumni night and seeing each other again, they’re both ready to take a chance. But then life happens as it does. Noah loses his sister and is now raising his nephew Miles. Two months later and Em is back in his life again working for the team he plays for.
I absolutely loved how Noah was Em’s biggest supporter and was not about to let her family, especially her dad make her feel any less than amazing. The way Noah literally remembered every little thing about Em over the years. Noah was such a thoughtful, loyal, dependable MC and I really loved him. Then you have Miss Emily who was so hardworking and determined to show her dad she could succeed. And her brothers coming in and helping. Also all the football team help was so fun. I love a good found family!
Miles, sweet miles. I loved the way he immediately just loved Sassy and those two were just two peas in a pod. Those scenes with them tugged my heart strings and were just so fun to read.
Thank you LoveNotes and Jaqueline for this ARC!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
•unrequited love
•friends to lovers
•second chance
•roommates
•always been her
The friends to lovers just always gets me. These two both feel bigger feelings than just friends. But never say anything. After a night at their college Alumni night and seeing each other again, they’re both ready to take a chance. But then life happens as it does. Noah loses his sister and is now raising his nephew Miles. Two months later and Em is back in his life again working for the team he plays for.
I absolutely loved how Noah was Em’s biggest supporter and was not about to let her family, especially her dad make her feel any less than amazing. The way Noah literally remembered every little thing about Em over the years. Noah was such a thoughtful, loyal, dependable MC and I really loved him. Then you have Miss Emily who was so hardworking and determined to show her dad she could succeed. And her brothers coming in and helping. Also all the football team help was so fun. I love a good found family!
Miles, sweet miles. I loved the way he immediately just loved Sassy and those two were just two peas in a pod. Those scenes with them tugged my heart strings and were just so fun to read.
Thank you LoveNotes and Jaqueline for this ARC!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
•unrequited love
•friends to lovers
•second chance
•roommates
•always been her
June 7, 2026
This book had me almost crying multiple times. And Miles... Oh my heart 🥹
You follow Em, a designer, and Noah, a professional athlete. They get a chance after reuniting in the same community. But it never seems like the right time. Until they are thrown to live together.
Everyone needs a supportive man like Noah 💗 He is fighting his own demons but won't hesitate to fight yours. Em has the kindest heart. She has never felt like enough, that is until she finally allowed people to help
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
You follow Em, a designer, and Noah, a professional athlete. They get a chance after reuniting in the same community. But it never seems like the right time. Until they are thrown to live together.
Everyone needs a supportive man like Noah 💗 He is fighting his own demons but won't hesitate to fight yours. Em has the kindest heart. She has never felt like enough, that is until she finally allowed people to help
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
May 25, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
RTC
RTC
June 3, 2026
There is something about a romance built on years of friendship, quiet longing, and being each other’s safe place that always gets me.
Side Lined gave me exactly that.
Noah and Em’s story is filled with the kind of yearning that makes every interaction matter. The feelings are there from the start, lingering beneath conversations, shared history, and all the moments they spend supporting one another. It wasn’t dramatic or over-the-top. It was emotional, heartfelt, and incredibly easy to become invested in.
Noah completely won me over.
As a professional football player, he seems strong enough to handle anything life throws at him. But beneath that strength is a man grieving the loss of his sister while trying to honor her wishes and raise her son, Miles. Watching him navigate grief, parenthood, and an unexpected custody battle made his story incredibly emotional.
What hit me hardest was seeing how fiercely he loved Miles.
The custody battle creates tension not only within Noah’s life but also between him and his parents, who are challenging his sister’s wishes. Those family dynamics added an emotional depth that made the story feel bigger than just the romance.
And then there was Em.
Em is a sports fashion designer trying to prove herself—to her parents, to the people around her, and sometimes even to herself. I loved watching her chase opportunities and grow into her confidence. What made her stand out was that she wasn’t waiting for someone else to save her. She worked hard for her dreams, and the support system around her only made her stronger.
One of my favorite parts of the book was seeing how Noah and Em balanced each other. They felt like true partners. The kind of couple who make each other better simply by showing up when it matters most.
The found family elements were wonderful, the friendships felt genuine, and the emotional moments landed exactly where they needed to.
Most of all, I loved the hope woven throughout the story. Even during the difficult moments, there was always the feeling that these characters were building something worth fighting for.
Noah was the perfect MMC.
Em was the perfect person for him.
And together, they made this book impossible not to root for.
⭐️ Overall Rating: 5/5
🔥 Burn Level: 5/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3.5/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 5/5
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Jaqueline Snowe for the opportunity to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Side Lined gave me exactly that.
Noah and Em’s story is filled with the kind of yearning that makes every interaction matter. The feelings are there from the start, lingering beneath conversations, shared history, and all the moments they spend supporting one another. It wasn’t dramatic or over-the-top. It was emotional, heartfelt, and incredibly easy to become invested in.
Noah completely won me over.
As a professional football player, he seems strong enough to handle anything life throws at him. But beneath that strength is a man grieving the loss of his sister while trying to honor her wishes and raise her son, Miles. Watching him navigate grief, parenthood, and an unexpected custody battle made his story incredibly emotional.
What hit me hardest was seeing how fiercely he loved Miles.
The custody battle creates tension not only within Noah’s life but also between him and his parents, who are challenging his sister’s wishes. Those family dynamics added an emotional depth that made the story feel bigger than just the romance.
And then there was Em.
Em is a sports fashion designer trying to prove herself—to her parents, to the people around her, and sometimes even to herself. I loved watching her chase opportunities and grow into her confidence. What made her stand out was that she wasn’t waiting for someone else to save her. She worked hard for her dreams, and the support system around her only made her stronger.
One of my favorite parts of the book was seeing how Noah and Em balanced each other. They felt like true partners. The kind of couple who make each other better simply by showing up when it matters most.
The found family elements were wonderful, the friendships felt genuine, and the emotional moments landed exactly where they needed to.
Most of all, I loved the hope woven throughout the story. Even during the difficult moments, there was always the feeling that these characters were building something worth fighting for.
Noah was the perfect MMC.
Em was the perfect person for him.
And together, they made this book impossible not to root for.
⭐️ Overall Rating: 5/5
🔥 Burn Level: 5/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3.5/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 5/5
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Jaqueline Snowe for the opportunity to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 6, 2026
Noah Abbott is the Rampage’s unbreakable wall—big, quiet, protective. The man who keeps his team safe.
He’s also the man who never got over Emily Sanders—his college almost, his late-night laughter, the girl he wanted but never claimed.
When they reconnect at a Central State alumni event, the attraction is immediate. Familiar. Explosive. For the first time in years, Noah thinks he might get a second chance.
Then his sister dies and her will makes Noah guardian of her five-year-old son.
Now Noah is fighting on every front—grief, a custody battle, and a little boy who needs him more than the spotlight ever did. Emily refuses to walk away, especially when her design business lands a contract with the Rampage and forces them into close quarters.
He’s built to take hits. He’s not built to ask for help.
But Emily is all in…even when his walls are up, even when the court dates pile up, even when love feels like one more risk he can’t afford.
Because this time, Noah isn’t playing to win. He’s playing to keep his family.
And Em? She’s fighting to finally be chosen.
Tropes: Standalone, Unrequited Love, Friends-to-Lovers, Second Chance, Roommates, Work Place Romance, It’s Always Been Her, Forced Proximity, He Falls First and Harder, Reconnection, Close Proximity, Single Guardian, It’s Always Been You, Internal Issues, Trauma, Obsession, Football/Sports Romance, Slow-Burn, Dual POV, Found Family, MMCs College ‘Almost’, He Friend-Zoned Himself, Surprise Custody, Push-Pull Tension, FMC shows Different Stages of Grief/Healthy vs Unhealthy and even Toxic, Spicy, Friends-Roommates-to-Lovers, Single Dad, He’s Pined after Her for Years, Protective MMC, Sweet MMC, Angst, Patient/Cinnamon Roll MMC, Tough/Independent FMC, Contemporary, Rampage Football
Side Lined is the 2nd book in the Rampage Football Series by Jaqueline Snowe. This book is a standalone romance with unrequited love, friends to lovers, second chance, roommates, work place romance. This is the first book by Jaqueline Snowe that I have had the pleasure of reading but after reading “Side Lined” I can honestly say that it’s not going to be the last.
I really enjoyed Noah and Emily’s friends-to-roommates-to-lovers romance.
Noah and Emily were best friends who couldn’t be ripped apart in college and Noah considers Emily his ‘college almost’. After they graduated, they went their separate ways and over time they lost contact as often happens with college friends. But Noah never got over Emily, no matter how hard he tried and no matter how hard he tried to move on.
While at an alumni event Noah and Emily end up reconnecting and Noah finds that the chemistry between them is still there and it’s immediate. Right away Noah is ready to ask Emily out and make her his, especially after all the years, he’s spent yearning after her, wondering what could have been if he had taken his chance and asked her out back in college. But, just like in college his insecurities get in his way and hold him back once again.
It takes another few months before Noah and Emily reconnect again after the alumni event. And Noah has found his life has completely changed. Tragically his sister passes away and in her will she names Noah as the guardian of her young son, Noah’s nephew Miles. And sudden circumstances find Noah and Emily in very close quarters suddenly living temporarily as roommates. And lets just say the tension between the two is thick enough to cut with a spoon and just like Noah and Emily, doesn’t stand a chance.
I adore an MMC who yearns for the right woman, and boy does Noah yeah for Emily in a big way. Noah’s a professional football player, and he could have any woman he wanted, but you can tell from the very beginning, the only woman he wants is Emily and she’s the only woman he’s focused on.
Noah is this thoughtful, dependable, loyal, sweet, and really very genuinely kind guy – Noah is the kind of MMC who shows his love through his actions over just his words. From opening up his own home to Emily after her own home floods to stepping up and taking in Miles when everyone else doubts him, Noah is constantly proving just what a truly good man he really is. And he really stole my heart the way he supported Emily’s dreams and supported everyone of her successes. He is truly a one in a million kind of guy.
And I couldn’t help but love Emily as well. She’s this ambitious, hardworking, and she is bound and determined to ensure that her fashion design business is a success even though her own father keeps pushing back on her dreams, trying to hold her back.
Emily grew up having been parentified, she is so used to carrying everyone else’s expectations and the weight that comes with that, and watching her finally step away from that and put herself first was so immensely satisfying. And the relationship she develops with Noah is so beautiful, healthy, and just one that everyone should want for themselves. And I loved watching her bond with Miles, even though she wasn’t obligated to. Noah, Emily, and Miles just fall into this beautiful family unit so naturally that feels warm, natural, authentic, real, and so easy and you can’t help but want to root for them.
As a couple Noah and Emily as so sweet, supportive of each other, and oh so very sexy. They don’t have this insta-love, their relationship is a slow, delicate, delicious, slow-burn that’s built on their years of friendship and of course their mutual respect for each other and this makes the eventual payoff feel completely earned. And when they finally give up on resisting each other and the chemistry and pull towards each-other they feel, we get spice that delivers everything we hopped it would.
This is the first book in the Rampage Football series that I have read but I will be going back and reading the first book in the series as I am really curious about the first book now. I will say that Jaqueline did give us a beautifully balanced romance, emotional depth, fantastic found-family dynamics, and I absolutely loved this book. I can’t wait to read more of this series, both the first book but also future books in the series.
I have to say that Noah’s nephew Miles was just this little gorgeous boy who you know is going to grow up to steal and break hearts. And Emily, she has this dog Sassy who is just far to cute and I found that Sassy added something special to the story and tried to steal every scene she was in.
If you enjoy a football romance, emotional, funny books that are also full of love that will make you cry at times and have a cute dog and stunningly cute kid then you want to pick up this book ASAP!
My favorite quote from this book is:
Everything about her was made specifically for me. Her perfume was my kryptonite, her laugh my own soundtrack.
He’s also the man who never got over Emily Sanders—his college almost, his late-night laughter, the girl he wanted but never claimed.
When they reconnect at a Central State alumni event, the attraction is immediate. Familiar. Explosive. For the first time in years, Noah thinks he might get a second chance.
Then his sister dies and her will makes Noah guardian of her five-year-old son.
Now Noah is fighting on every front—grief, a custody battle, and a little boy who needs him more than the spotlight ever did. Emily refuses to walk away, especially when her design business lands a contract with the Rampage and forces them into close quarters.
He’s built to take hits. He’s not built to ask for help.
But Emily is all in…even when his walls are up, even when the court dates pile up, even when love feels like one more risk he can’t afford.
Because this time, Noah isn’t playing to win. He’s playing to keep his family.
And Em? She’s fighting to finally be chosen.
Tropes: Standalone, Unrequited Love, Friends-to-Lovers, Second Chance, Roommates, Work Place Romance, It’s Always Been Her, Forced Proximity, He Falls First and Harder, Reconnection, Close Proximity, Single Guardian, It’s Always Been You, Internal Issues, Trauma, Obsession, Football/Sports Romance, Slow-Burn, Dual POV, Found Family, MMCs College ‘Almost’, He Friend-Zoned Himself, Surprise Custody, Push-Pull Tension, FMC shows Different Stages of Grief/Healthy vs Unhealthy and even Toxic, Spicy, Friends-Roommates-to-Lovers, Single Dad, He’s Pined after Her for Years, Protective MMC, Sweet MMC, Angst, Patient/Cinnamon Roll MMC, Tough/Independent FMC, Contemporary, Rampage Football
Side Lined is the 2nd book in the Rampage Football Series by Jaqueline Snowe. This book is a standalone romance with unrequited love, friends to lovers, second chance, roommates, work place romance. This is the first book by Jaqueline Snowe that I have had the pleasure of reading but after reading “Side Lined” I can honestly say that it’s not going to be the last.
I really enjoyed Noah and Emily’s friends-to-roommates-to-lovers romance.
Noah and Emily were best friends who couldn’t be ripped apart in college and Noah considers Emily his ‘college almost’. After they graduated, they went their separate ways and over time they lost contact as often happens with college friends. But Noah never got over Emily, no matter how hard he tried and no matter how hard he tried to move on.
While at an alumni event Noah and Emily end up reconnecting and Noah finds that the chemistry between them is still there and it’s immediate. Right away Noah is ready to ask Emily out and make her his, especially after all the years, he’s spent yearning after her, wondering what could have been if he had taken his chance and asked her out back in college. But, just like in college his insecurities get in his way and hold him back once again.
It takes another few months before Noah and Emily reconnect again after the alumni event. And Noah has found his life has completely changed. Tragically his sister passes away and in her will she names Noah as the guardian of her young son, Noah’s nephew Miles. And sudden circumstances find Noah and Emily in very close quarters suddenly living temporarily as roommates. And lets just say the tension between the two is thick enough to cut with a spoon and just like Noah and Emily, doesn’t stand a chance.
I adore an MMC who yearns for the right woman, and boy does Noah yeah for Emily in a big way. Noah’s a professional football player, and he could have any woman he wanted, but you can tell from the very beginning, the only woman he wants is Emily and she’s the only woman he’s focused on.
Noah is this thoughtful, dependable, loyal, sweet, and really very genuinely kind guy – Noah is the kind of MMC who shows his love through his actions over just his words. From opening up his own home to Emily after her own home floods to stepping up and taking in Miles when everyone else doubts him, Noah is constantly proving just what a truly good man he really is. And he really stole my heart the way he supported Emily’s dreams and supported everyone of her successes. He is truly a one in a million kind of guy.
And I couldn’t help but love Emily as well. She’s this ambitious, hardworking, and she is bound and determined to ensure that her fashion design business is a success even though her own father keeps pushing back on her dreams, trying to hold her back.
Emily grew up having been parentified, she is so used to carrying everyone else’s expectations and the weight that comes with that, and watching her finally step away from that and put herself first was so immensely satisfying. And the relationship she develops with Noah is so beautiful, healthy, and just one that everyone should want for themselves. And I loved watching her bond with Miles, even though she wasn’t obligated to. Noah, Emily, and Miles just fall into this beautiful family unit so naturally that feels warm, natural, authentic, real, and so easy and you can’t help but want to root for them.
As a couple Noah and Emily as so sweet, supportive of each other, and oh so very sexy. They don’t have this insta-love, their relationship is a slow, delicate, delicious, slow-burn that’s built on their years of friendship and of course their mutual respect for each other and this makes the eventual payoff feel completely earned. And when they finally give up on resisting each other and the chemistry and pull towards each-other they feel, we get spice that delivers everything we hopped it would.
This is the first book in the Rampage Football series that I have read but I will be going back and reading the first book in the series as I am really curious about the first book now. I will say that Jaqueline did give us a beautifully balanced romance, emotional depth, fantastic found-family dynamics, and I absolutely loved this book. I can’t wait to read more of this series, both the first book but also future books in the series.
I have to say that Noah’s nephew Miles was just this little gorgeous boy who you know is going to grow up to steal and break hearts. And Emily, she has this dog Sassy who is just far to cute and I found that Sassy added something special to the story and tried to steal every scene she was in.
If you enjoy a football romance, emotional, funny books that are also full of love that will make you cry at times and have a cute dog and stunningly cute kid then you want to pick up this book ASAP!
My favorite quote from this book is:
Everything about her was made specifically for me. Her perfume was my kryptonite, her laugh my own soundtrack.
May 29, 2026
firstly thank you to LoveNotes PR and Jaqueline Snowe for allowing e to have this book and be an ARC reader!
NOAH AND EMMM!
i love a good friends to lovers trope and a “it’s always been you”. this book was so good ! kind of a slow burn but also a quick read. definitely a book to get you out of a reading slump.
i absolutely loved how trusting Noah and Em were with each other with all they’ve been through. Noah dealing with grief from his sister passing, taking in his nephew Miles who he loves like his own and his parents harassing him and threatening to take Miles from him because he’s playing in the NFL.
Em having to deal with her father not believing in the designs she comes up with and her passion for it. for her whole family thinking she is a child all over again after trauma happens
this book shows that dealing with grief or those that don’t believe in what you believe is hard but having that right person in your life can make it all the more better. found family has to be the best kind of family you can have when things in life are going wrong!
i can’t wait for everyone to read their story and see how loveable each character is!
NOAH AND EMMM!
i love a good friends to lovers trope and a “it’s always been you”. this book was so good ! kind of a slow burn but also a quick read. definitely a book to get you out of a reading slump.
i absolutely loved how trusting Noah and Em were with each other with all they’ve been through. Noah dealing with grief from his sister passing, taking in his nephew Miles who he loves like his own and his parents harassing him and threatening to take Miles from him because he’s playing in the NFL.
Em having to deal with her father not believing in the designs she comes up with and her passion for it. for her whole family thinking she is a child all over again after trauma happens
this book shows that dealing with grief or those that don’t believe in what you believe is hard but having that right person in your life can make it all the more better. found family has to be the best kind of family you can have when things in life are going wrong!
i can’t wait for everyone to read their story and see how loveable each character is!
June 8, 2026
this was so cute!! i loved it!!
June 6, 2026
I’m so sad to say that this book wasn’t for me which is disappointing because I absolutely love Jacqueline‘s books, especially the central state universe that she created. However, the rampage football series hasn’t been hitting its mark for me personally.
I was excited to read this book because our female main character is one that we have seen in the past. If you have read the Central state hockey series by Jacqueline, then you met Emily in the books through the ice and under the ice. I love the Sanders family, and when we originally met Theo and his siblings, I remember thinking that I wanted more of them. Well, here we have Emily years later, having already graduated from Central State university, and now living as an adult in the real world.
In all honesty, I cannot remember if we met Noah Abbott in the past, however his name does sound very familiar, so I will need to go back and see if he was mentioned in any other book somewhere along the way. Obviously, we met him in GameStop as a teammate of Oliver and I know I enjoyed his gentle personality, and how great of a friend he was to Oliver.
So in this story, we have Noah and Emily, who had gone to Central state together years prior and met as freshman. They spent the four years that they went to college together as friends, and while Noah always had a crush on Emily he never actually pursued anything with her. Once they graduated and each went on with their lives, they lost contact. I still don’t fully understand why neither one of them maintained contact with the other if they were such good friends for four years, however that is just a plot hole that exists in the story. They come together at the very beginning of side lined at an alumni event and despite having a lovely evening together, neither one of them is able to reach out to the other in the coming days. Unfortunately, tragedy be falls on Noah’s personal life, and he finds himself being a guardian to his nephew after the death of his sister. Because life gets in the way again, he loses the impulse to reach out to Emily and maintain a friendship.
Huge red flag for me. How is it that we are now grown adults, and still don’t understand how to avoid the miscommunication trope. I can understand something like this when you’re teenagers in high school, or even if you’re in college. But as adult adults. No. This should have been assigned for me to stop reading the book because I knew I was going to be pissed off. However, I pushed forward.
Over the next few chapters, I mean, hundred or so pages, we continuously have the trope of insecurity and doubt and miscommunication again. This just continued to piss me off. The individuals find themselves living together. Noah is in need of a Nany for his nephew so that he can maintain custody per his sister‘s wishes, and Emily is stubborn and refuses to accept help from her older brother Theo. she continues to live in self-doubt when starting her business instead of acting like an adult and just putting herself out there. It gets to be annoying and all honesty.
It takes forever for them to actually act up upon their chemistry and attraction for each other, despite starting to vocalize it right before the 50% mark of the book, it’s still another 10 to 15% before anything physical happens. And even after it happens, it is very subdued and stretch few and far scenes. Normally that would be fine, however, if you’ve read Jacqueline‘s other works, you know this isn’t her normal go to. Most of her books start the spice somewhere around the 40 to 50% mark and then continue through constantly. They’re not explicit and overly graphic scenes, however, you know that her couples usually are a bit… Horny. Experimental? Physical? Why is it that the couples so far in this series make the books feel like a fade to black almost.
Then there is the actual plot. Emily‘s relationship with her parents, especially with her father, is just annoying. While I understand her motives and reasoning behind the resentment, I can also say that she is an adult and is at a point where she can vocalize what she is thinking. She can also stand up for herself. I think she’s just acting like the teenager she was when everything went down within her family. If you read through the ice, then you know what I’m talking about.
Noah’s relationship with his parent, and the whole custody battle regarding his nephew, his truthfully infuriating. Yes, his parents make me mad, especially because of the way that they would rather fight their son rather than understand their grief, but Noah too. He’s an adult. He has to understand that his parent also lost a daughter and now fear that they may lose their their grandchild. I think a lot of their issues could either be resolved or calmed down if they act like the adults that they are and support each other rather than bigger and fight.
I just… I didn’t feel this book… I didn’t vibe with it. I’ve enjoyed the the other Central state series that Jacqueline has put out before. And considering that the rampage series all interlocks those previous ones with this one through X students and alumni, I was expecting to enjoy it more however it’s not meeting the mark that I wanted. I’m not getting that team vibe and dynamic that I’ve seen in previous books. I’m not getting the spice level that I’m used to in Jacqueline’s works. And I feel that the characters are not acting like the adults that they should be, rather they are acting like college students or young adults that they used to be.
I was excited to read this book because our female main character is one that we have seen in the past. If you have read the Central state hockey series by Jacqueline, then you met Emily in the books through the ice and under the ice. I love the Sanders family, and when we originally met Theo and his siblings, I remember thinking that I wanted more of them. Well, here we have Emily years later, having already graduated from Central State university, and now living as an adult in the real world.
In all honesty, I cannot remember if we met Noah Abbott in the past, however his name does sound very familiar, so I will need to go back and see if he was mentioned in any other book somewhere along the way. Obviously, we met him in GameStop as a teammate of Oliver and I know I enjoyed his gentle personality, and how great of a friend he was to Oliver.
So in this story, we have Noah and Emily, who had gone to Central state together years prior and met as freshman. They spent the four years that they went to college together as friends, and while Noah always had a crush on Emily he never actually pursued anything with her. Once they graduated and each went on with their lives, they lost contact. I still don’t fully understand why neither one of them maintained contact with the other if they were such good friends for four years, however that is just a plot hole that exists in the story. They come together at the very beginning of side lined at an alumni event and despite having a lovely evening together, neither one of them is able to reach out to the other in the coming days. Unfortunately, tragedy be falls on Noah’s personal life, and he finds himself being a guardian to his nephew after the death of his sister. Because life gets in the way again, he loses the impulse to reach out to Emily and maintain a friendship.
Huge red flag for me. How is it that we are now grown adults, and still don’t understand how to avoid the miscommunication trope. I can understand something like this when you’re teenagers in high school, or even if you’re in college. But as adult adults. No. This should have been assigned for me to stop reading the book because I knew I was going to be pissed off. However, I pushed forward.
Over the next few chapters, I mean, hundred or so pages, we continuously have the trope of insecurity and doubt and miscommunication again. This just continued to piss me off. The individuals find themselves living together. Noah is in need of a Nany for his nephew so that he can maintain custody per his sister‘s wishes, and Emily is stubborn and refuses to accept help from her older brother Theo. she continues to live in self-doubt when starting her business instead of acting like an adult and just putting herself out there. It gets to be annoying and all honesty.
It takes forever for them to actually act up upon their chemistry and attraction for each other, despite starting to vocalize it right before the 50% mark of the book, it’s still another 10 to 15% before anything physical happens. And even after it happens, it is very subdued and stretch few and far scenes. Normally that would be fine, however, if you’ve read Jacqueline‘s other works, you know this isn’t her normal go to. Most of her books start the spice somewhere around the 40 to 50% mark and then continue through constantly. They’re not explicit and overly graphic scenes, however, you know that her couples usually are a bit… Horny. Experimental? Physical? Why is it that the couples so far in this series make the books feel like a fade to black almost.
Then there is the actual plot. Emily‘s relationship with her parents, especially with her father, is just annoying. While I understand her motives and reasoning behind the resentment, I can also say that she is an adult and is at a point where she can vocalize what she is thinking. She can also stand up for herself. I think she’s just acting like the teenager she was when everything went down within her family. If you read through the ice, then you know what I’m talking about.
Noah’s relationship with his parent, and the whole custody battle regarding his nephew, his truthfully infuriating. Yes, his parents make me mad, especially because of the way that they would rather fight their son rather than understand their grief, but Noah too. He’s an adult. He has to understand that his parent also lost a daughter and now fear that they may lose their their grandchild. I think a lot of their issues could either be resolved or calmed down if they act like the adults that they are and support each other rather than bigger and fight.
I just… I didn’t feel this book… I didn’t vibe with it. I’ve enjoyed the the other Central state series that Jacqueline has put out before. And considering that the rampage series all interlocks those previous ones with this one through X students and alumni, I was expecting to enjoy it more however it’s not meeting the mark that I wanted. I’m not getting that team vibe and dynamic that I’ve seen in previous books. I’m not getting the spice level that I’m used to in Jacqueline’s works. And I feel that the characters are not acting like the adults that they should be, rather they are acting like college students or young adults that they used to be.
June 9, 2026
Thank you Love Notes PR and Jaqueline Snowe for this early ARC — my heart is still doing laps around the Rampage stadium.
This one gave me everything: a college friends‑to‑lovers slow burn, found family in overflowing buckets, laugh‑out‑loud moments, and just enough drama to keep my appetite perfectly whetted.
And listen… Noah Abbott? The blueprint. The definition of the perfect book boyfriend. Protective, funny, emotionally aware, and constantly checking in on everyone around him — even when he can’t quite accept help himself. Watching him navigate grief, guardianship, and the absolute audacity of his parents trying to take Miles from him had me ready to throw hands. They never once saw the quiet, consistent ways he shows up for that boy. The validation. The imagination. The memories of his sister he keeps alive. I was fuming.
Then there’s Em — stubborn, independent, emotionally bruised from toxic relationships and parents who never took her dreams seriously. Seeing her reconnect with Noah at the alumni event, laughing again, sharing soft secrets… it chipped away at her walls one scene at a time. And when fate (and a flooded flat) turns them into roommates? The slow unfurling of once‑unrequited love absolutely melted me. Soft touches. Gentle boundaries. Regular check‑ins. Trust built brick by brick.
Noah is a consent king, and his need to go slow with Em made my heart ache in the best way. But I’ll be honest — once they were officially together, I wanted that patience to snap just a little. Give me the passion, the heat, the “I’ve wanted you for years” energy. The slow burn was delicious, but I wouldn’t have minded a little extra spice once the match was lit.
Special shoutout to Miles and Sassy the black lab, the emotional glue of this entire story. Miles is so deeply loved — by Noah, by Em, by the team, even by Em’s family — that if this custody battle ever hit a courtroom, there’s no universe where he wouldn’t end up exactly where he belongs. And Sassy? A sworn protector, a joy‑bringer, a tail‑wagging serotonin machine. Good girl indeed.
Overall, Sidelined is heartfelt, warm, and full of found‑family goodness. I just wish the romance and the custody‑battle tension had been dialled up a notch — but Noah and Em’s journey still left me smiling.
This one gave me everything: a college friends‑to‑lovers slow burn, found family in overflowing buckets, laugh‑out‑loud moments, and just enough drama to keep my appetite perfectly whetted.
And listen… Noah Abbott? The blueprint. The definition of the perfect book boyfriend. Protective, funny, emotionally aware, and constantly checking in on everyone around him — even when he can’t quite accept help himself. Watching him navigate grief, guardianship, and the absolute audacity of his parents trying to take Miles from him had me ready to throw hands. They never once saw the quiet, consistent ways he shows up for that boy. The validation. The imagination. The memories of his sister he keeps alive. I was fuming.
Then there’s Em — stubborn, independent, emotionally bruised from toxic relationships and parents who never took her dreams seriously. Seeing her reconnect with Noah at the alumni event, laughing again, sharing soft secrets… it chipped away at her walls one scene at a time. And when fate (and a flooded flat) turns them into roommates? The slow unfurling of once‑unrequited love absolutely melted me. Soft touches. Gentle boundaries. Regular check‑ins. Trust built brick by brick.
Noah is a consent king, and his need to go slow with Em made my heart ache in the best way. But I’ll be honest — once they were officially together, I wanted that patience to snap just a little. Give me the passion, the heat, the “I’ve wanted you for years” energy. The slow burn was delicious, but I wouldn’t have minded a little extra spice once the match was lit.
Special shoutout to Miles and Sassy the black lab, the emotional glue of this entire story. Miles is so deeply loved — by Noah, by Em, by the team, even by Em’s family — that if this custody battle ever hit a courtroom, there’s no universe where he wouldn’t end up exactly where he belongs. And Sassy? A sworn protector, a joy‑bringer, a tail‑wagging serotonin machine. Good girl indeed.
Overall, Sidelined is heartfelt, warm, and full of found‑family goodness. I just wish the romance and the custody‑battle tension had been dialled up a notch — but Noah and Em’s journey still left me smiling.
June 1, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Side Lined by Jaqueline Snowe
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
I loved Noah and Em’s friends-to-lovers romance. After losing touch following college, they reconnect at an alumni event, and the chemistry is immediate. Noah is finally ready to ask Em out after years of quietly pining for her, but his insecurities get in the way. By the time they reconnect again months later, Noah has unexpectedly become the guardian of his young nephew, Miles, and circumstances force him and Em into close quarters as temporary roommates. Needless to say, the tension doesn't stand a chance.
I am an absolute sucker for a man who yearns, and Noah delivers in a big way. As a professional football player, he could have anyone he wants, but from the very beginning, his focus is entirely on Em. He’s thoughtful, dependable, and genuinely kind—the type of MMC who shows his love through actions. Whether he’s opening his home to her after her apartment floods or stepping up for Miles when others doubt him, Noah consistently proves what a good man he is. And the way he supports Em’s dreams and celebrates her successes? Swoon.
I really liked Em, too. She’s ambitious, hardworking, and determined to make her fashion design business a success despite her father's constant pushback. Having been heavily parentified growing up, she’s used to carrying the weight of everyone else's expectations, so watching her finally prioritize herself was incredibly satisfying. I also loved the relationship she develops with Miles. The three of them naturally fall into a family dynamic that feels warm, authentic, and easy to root for.
Together, Noah and Em are sweet, supportive, and undeniably sexy. Their relationship develops slowly, built on years of friendship and mutual respect, which makes the payoff feel completely earned. And once they finally stop resisting each other? The spice absolutely delivers.
This is another fantastic addition to the Rampage Football series. Jaqueline Snowe continues to balance romance, emotional depth, and found-family dynamics so well, and I think this may be my favorite installment yet.
Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for providing an ARC!
Side Lined by Jaqueline Snowe
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
I loved Noah and Em’s friends-to-lovers romance. After losing touch following college, they reconnect at an alumni event, and the chemistry is immediate. Noah is finally ready to ask Em out after years of quietly pining for her, but his insecurities get in the way. By the time they reconnect again months later, Noah has unexpectedly become the guardian of his young nephew, Miles, and circumstances force him and Em into close quarters as temporary roommates. Needless to say, the tension doesn't stand a chance.
I am an absolute sucker for a man who yearns, and Noah delivers in a big way. As a professional football player, he could have anyone he wants, but from the very beginning, his focus is entirely on Em. He’s thoughtful, dependable, and genuinely kind—the type of MMC who shows his love through actions. Whether he’s opening his home to her after her apartment floods or stepping up for Miles when others doubt him, Noah consistently proves what a good man he is. And the way he supports Em’s dreams and celebrates her successes? Swoon.
I really liked Em, too. She’s ambitious, hardworking, and determined to make her fashion design business a success despite her father's constant pushback. Having been heavily parentified growing up, she’s used to carrying the weight of everyone else's expectations, so watching her finally prioritize herself was incredibly satisfying. I also loved the relationship she develops with Miles. The three of them naturally fall into a family dynamic that feels warm, authentic, and easy to root for.
Together, Noah and Em are sweet, supportive, and undeniably sexy. Their relationship develops slowly, built on years of friendship and mutual respect, which makes the payoff feel completely earned. And once they finally stop resisting each other? The spice absolutely delivers.
This is another fantastic addition to the Rampage Football series. Jaqueline Snowe continues to balance romance, emotional depth, and found-family dynamics so well, and I think this may be my favorite installment yet.
Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for providing an ARC!
June 1, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy Level:🌶️🌶️
✨Friends to Lovers
✨Second Chance
✨Unrequited Love
✨Roommates
✨ It's Always Been Her
This was such a good read - I loved the way the book ties into the previous series but was able to stand all on its own! Friends to lovers is one of my absolute favorite tropes, and this one was done so well! Loved the Central State connection - seeing small glimpses into the life Theo and Audrey have now was such a treat! Noah and Em were perfect for each other - it took some time for them both to see this, but sometimes time is what you need. This was a slow burn that gave you all the yearning (mostly him) and the support and encouragement (mostly her) - both getting what they need out of the relationship. Noah (MMC) is a professional football player who recently became the guardian of his young nephew. He is trying to be the support and build the home Miles needs while fighting with his parents to remain the guardian. Emily “Em” (FMC) is struggling to make her dream of becoming a designer come true, putting all her extra time and effort into it while trying to fight the constant doubt from her father. Noah and Em were best friends in college, completely inseparable. Noah always wanted more with Em, but was afraid to ruin the friendship. A chance encounter at a Central State alumni event seemed like the restart Noah was looking for, but life got in the way, and Noah became a guardian for his nephew. This upheaval in his life leads to his missed chance to reconnect with Em.
A flood in Em’s apartment gives Noah the second chance he needs, he has Em move in while he apartment is being fixed. During this time, they get closer, begin to rely on each other, and be the support the other needs. This book had a great build-up, the best side characters (Sassy and Miles), and all the friends-to-lovers second-chance magic I love in a book. Noah always knew that Em was his end goal and wanted to make sure he got his HEA and gave Em the one that she deserved!
**I received an Advanced Readers' Copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Spicy Level:🌶️🌶️
✨Friends to Lovers
✨Second Chance
✨Unrequited Love
✨Roommates
✨ It's Always Been Her
This was such a good read - I loved the way the book ties into the previous series but was able to stand all on its own! Friends to lovers is one of my absolute favorite tropes, and this one was done so well! Loved the Central State connection - seeing small glimpses into the life Theo and Audrey have now was such a treat! Noah and Em were perfect for each other - it took some time for them both to see this, but sometimes time is what you need. This was a slow burn that gave you all the yearning (mostly him) and the support and encouragement (mostly her) - both getting what they need out of the relationship. Noah (MMC) is a professional football player who recently became the guardian of his young nephew. He is trying to be the support and build the home Miles needs while fighting with his parents to remain the guardian. Emily “Em” (FMC) is struggling to make her dream of becoming a designer come true, putting all her extra time and effort into it while trying to fight the constant doubt from her father. Noah and Em were best friends in college, completely inseparable. Noah always wanted more with Em, but was afraid to ruin the friendship. A chance encounter at a Central State alumni event seemed like the restart Noah was looking for, but life got in the way, and Noah became a guardian for his nephew. This upheaval in his life leads to his missed chance to reconnect with Em.
A flood in Em’s apartment gives Noah the second chance he needs, he has Em move in while he apartment is being fixed. During this time, they get closer, begin to rely on each other, and be the support the other needs. This book had a great build-up, the best side characters (Sassy and Miles), and all the friends-to-lovers second-chance magic I love in a book. Noah always knew that Em was his end goal and wanted to make sure he got his HEA and gave Em the one that she deserved!
**I received an Advanced Readers' Copy in exchange for an honest review.**
July 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Genuine friends-to-lovers is hard to find done well, and this one delivered exactly what I go looking for in the trope — history, restraint, and two people who clearly should have found their way to each other years ago.
Noah is the heart of this book. Watching a man rebuild his entire life around a nephew who isn't biologically his, without hesitation and without resentment, said everything about who he is before he and Emily even get their moment. He's steady, protective, and quietly devoted in a way that doesn't need grand gestures to prove itself — though when he finally does go big, it lands even harder because of everything that came before it. Emily matches him perfectly: endlessly understanding, warm, and easy to root for from page one. Her bond with Miles, and with her own dog, added such a sweet, lived-in texture to the story.
What I loved most was the found-family element running underneath the romance. Noah's team and Emily's own circle both show up for each other like real family — especially when Emily's design business starts taking off and the people around her rally instead of competing. That community feeling elevated the whole book for me.
The emotional backbone comes from Emily confronting an old wound tied to her father's choices, and watching Noah help her work through that without ever trying to fix her or rush her healing was some of the most tender writing in the book. I did find myself frustrated with her aunt's storyline — the pushback on Emily's career made sense from a place of concern, but it crossed into dismissiveness that never fully got resolved for me.
The standout moment, hands down, is the proposal! Noah turns it into a treasure hunt that pulls in every single person who matters to Emily, and the payoff of that scene — after everything both of them worked through to get there — was genuinely one of my favorite proposal scenes I've read all year.
If you love guardian/single-dad romances, found family, and slow-burn friends-to-lovers done right, this is one to add to your list.
Genuine friends-to-lovers is hard to find done well, and this one delivered exactly what I go looking for in the trope — history, restraint, and two people who clearly should have found their way to each other years ago.
Noah is the heart of this book. Watching a man rebuild his entire life around a nephew who isn't biologically his, without hesitation and without resentment, said everything about who he is before he and Emily even get their moment. He's steady, protective, and quietly devoted in a way that doesn't need grand gestures to prove itself — though when he finally does go big, it lands even harder because of everything that came before it. Emily matches him perfectly: endlessly understanding, warm, and easy to root for from page one. Her bond with Miles, and with her own dog, added such a sweet, lived-in texture to the story.
What I loved most was the found-family element running underneath the romance. Noah's team and Emily's own circle both show up for each other like real family — especially when Emily's design business starts taking off and the people around her rally instead of competing. That community feeling elevated the whole book for me.
The emotional backbone comes from Emily confronting an old wound tied to her father's choices, and watching Noah help her work through that without ever trying to fix her or rush her healing was some of the most tender writing in the book. I did find myself frustrated with her aunt's storyline — the pushback on Emily's career made sense from a place of concern, but it crossed into dismissiveness that never fully got resolved for me.
The standout moment, hands down, is the proposal! Noah turns it into a treasure hunt that pulls in every single person who matters to Emily, and the payoff of that scene — after everything both of them worked through to get there — was genuinely one of my favorite proposal scenes I've read all year.
If you love guardian/single-dad romances, found family, and slow-burn friends-to-lovers done right, this is one to add to your list.
June 1, 2026
🏈 Everything about her was made specifically for me. Her perfume was my kryptonite, her laugh my own soundtrack. 🪡
"When love is real, it finds a way." 💜
My first thought when I started reading this book and getting to know Em and Noah’s story was that the fake dating trope would have been absolutely perfect for them! 🤭💕 Even though the author chose a different direction, I ended up loving every second of this book 😍
Noah completely stole my heart 🫠 He’s handsome, caring, supportive, and honestly just the kind of book boyfriend who is impossible not to love. A wonderful uncle, brother, and friend ❤️I loved that he got a second chance at love and didn’t let it slip away. The way he supported Em, encouraged her, and paid attention to all the little things that mattered to her was simply beautiful 🥹 And don’t even get me started on how he took care of his nephew, Miles! 🐉🥹 He was so loving, patient, protective, and devoted... it melted my heart 🤍
Em is such a lovely FMC 🩷 She’s talented, kind, supportive, and determined, even when her insecurities try to hold her back. I loved seeing her fight for her dreams and refuse to give up 🪡🧵💎💖 I also adored her relationships with Sassy 🐕 Miles 🐉📚 and her siblings 🏡 They added so much warmth and depth to the story 🫶🏻
What I loved most was Em and Noah’s relationship 💜 Their friendship felt so genuine, and watching it slowly grow into something more was absolutely everything 🥹🥰 They supported each other through the highs and lows, always putting the people they loved first. The care, trust, and comfort between them made me fall in love with their story even more 😍
Perfect for anyone who enjoys tropes such as:
friends to lovers 🫶🏻
forced proximity 👥
roommates 🏠
he falls first and harder 🫠
second chance 💞
📖 Side Lined by Jaqueline Snowe (ARC) 🏈🪡🐕🐉
"When love is real, it finds a way." 💜
My first thought when I started reading this book and getting to know Em and Noah’s story was that the fake dating trope would have been absolutely perfect for them! 🤭💕 Even though the author chose a different direction, I ended up loving every second of this book 😍
Noah completely stole my heart 🫠 He’s handsome, caring, supportive, and honestly just the kind of book boyfriend who is impossible not to love. A wonderful uncle, brother, and friend ❤️I loved that he got a second chance at love and didn’t let it slip away. The way he supported Em, encouraged her, and paid attention to all the little things that mattered to her was simply beautiful 🥹 And don’t even get me started on how he took care of his nephew, Miles! 🐉🥹 He was so loving, patient, protective, and devoted... it melted my heart 🤍
Em is such a lovely FMC 🩷 She’s talented, kind, supportive, and determined, even when her insecurities try to hold her back. I loved seeing her fight for her dreams and refuse to give up 🪡🧵💎💖 I also adored her relationships with Sassy 🐕 Miles 🐉📚 and her siblings 🏡 They added so much warmth and depth to the story 🫶🏻
What I loved most was Em and Noah’s relationship 💜 Their friendship felt so genuine, and watching it slowly grow into something more was absolutely everything 🥹🥰 They supported each other through the highs and lows, always putting the people they loved first. The care, trust, and comfort between them made me fall in love with their story even more 😍
Perfect for anyone who enjoys tropes such as:
friends to lovers 🫶🏻
forced proximity 👥
roommates 🏠
he falls first and harder 🫠
second chance 💞
📖 Side Lined by Jaqueline Snowe (ARC) 🏈🪡🐕🐉
June 7, 2026
ARC review
⭐3/5
🌶️2/5
📌Check TW
I love the friends-to-lovers trope because there's something so special about watching two people who have shared so much of their lives realize they're meant to be something more. Of course, Emily and Noah did everything they could to fight those feelings.
These two spent far too much time going back and forth, held back by the fear of losing the friendship they treasured most. Both carried insecurities that prevented them from seeing what everyone else could: they were already enough for each other. Noah was loyal, thoughtful, dependable, and completely devoted, but fear kept him from taking the leap. Emily, on the other hand, was so busy carrying everyone else's expectations that she lost sight of her own wants and needs, giving up on the possibility of Noah before it ever had a chance. They were perfect together, but somehow, they were the last ones to realize it.
The real standout for me, though, was Miles, Noah's nephew. His storyline completely stole my heart. He was so vulnerable and easy to love that all I wanted was to step into the pages and give him a hug. I adored the bond he formed with Emily from the very beginning and how naturally he saw her as family. Noah's dedication to becoming Miles's guardian and protecting him at all costs only made me love him more. This entire storyline was the emotional heart of the book.
And then there's Sassy, Emily's dog, who was the perfect addition to the story. She was adorable, brought so much charm to every scene, and somehow managed to steal the spotlight whenever she appeared.
If you enjoy football romances, friends-to-lovers stories, lovable kids, and scene-stealing dogs, then the second book in the Rampage Football series should definitely be on your TBR.
Thank you to Jaqueline and Love Notes PR for this eARC!
⭐3/5
🌶️2/5
📌Check TW
I love the friends-to-lovers trope because there's something so special about watching two people who have shared so much of their lives realize they're meant to be something more. Of course, Emily and Noah did everything they could to fight those feelings.
These two spent far too much time going back and forth, held back by the fear of losing the friendship they treasured most. Both carried insecurities that prevented them from seeing what everyone else could: they were already enough for each other. Noah was loyal, thoughtful, dependable, and completely devoted, but fear kept him from taking the leap. Emily, on the other hand, was so busy carrying everyone else's expectations that she lost sight of her own wants and needs, giving up on the possibility of Noah before it ever had a chance. They were perfect together, but somehow, they were the last ones to realize it.
The real standout for me, though, was Miles, Noah's nephew. His storyline completely stole my heart. He was so vulnerable and easy to love that all I wanted was to step into the pages and give him a hug. I adored the bond he formed with Emily from the very beginning and how naturally he saw her as family. Noah's dedication to becoming Miles's guardian and protecting him at all costs only made me love him more. This entire storyline was the emotional heart of the book.
And then there's Sassy, Emily's dog, who was the perfect addition to the story. She was adorable, brought so much charm to every scene, and somehow managed to steal the spotlight whenever she appeared.
If you enjoy football romances, friends-to-lovers stories, lovable kids, and scene-stealing dogs, then the second book in the Rampage Football series should definitely be on your TBR.
Thank you to Jaqueline and Love Notes PR for this eARC!
June 15, 2026
I was lucky enough to get an arc for this book and man I loved it so much! I was late for the review and I apologize for not getting to the review sooner, with that being said this book was perfect and I hate it took me so long to read it!
I have to say the first three chapters of this book were amazing, so amazing that I re-read them three times before I could start the rest of the book. Noah and Em were the perfect MMC and FMC. I loved they had a shared history from college and they both pined for one another for years and let their friendship run its course but still wanted one another in a more romantic way.
I love how Em was in love with fashion and I believe that was another reason why this book was such a good read for me because we both shared that love. I love how the author would describe Em’s outfits and how her business was a passion for her and it was a business that was exciting and not like other characters in books like this!
Noah is literally the perfect MMC. Not since Dean Di LAURENTIS jn the off campus series has a MMC loved the FMC so much and I just loved how Em was his universe and how he had loved her from afar since their college days and wasn’t ashamed to admit it. His grief story was good too, not too much and also football didn’t take up too much of the story.
Now the side characters I loved sassy and miles! They were perfect and to me the story was just so much better because of them! The love that this found family shared was something special and how they worked to keep their family in tact was so great! I loved how the author didn’t have a third act break up or endless back and forth between the characters, she made their love known and it showed throughout the book and never deterred!
I can’t say enough good things about this book! I adored it!
I have to say the first three chapters of this book were amazing, so amazing that I re-read them three times before I could start the rest of the book. Noah and Em were the perfect MMC and FMC. I loved they had a shared history from college and they both pined for one another for years and let their friendship run its course but still wanted one another in a more romantic way.
I love how Em was in love with fashion and I believe that was another reason why this book was such a good read for me because we both shared that love. I love how the author would describe Em’s outfits and how her business was a passion for her and it was a business that was exciting and not like other characters in books like this!
Noah is literally the perfect MMC. Not since Dean Di LAURENTIS jn the off campus series has a MMC loved the FMC so much and I just loved how Em was his universe and how he had loved her from afar since their college days and wasn’t ashamed to admit it. His grief story was good too, not too much and also football didn’t take up too much of the story.
Now the side characters I loved sassy and miles! They were perfect and to me the story was just so much better because of them! The love that this found family shared was something special and how they worked to keep their family in tact was so great! I loved how the author didn’t have a third act break up or endless back and forth between the characters, she made their love known and it showed throughout the book and never deterred!
I can’t say enough good things about this book! I adored it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I will forever stand by the fact that Jaqueline Snowe deserves so much more hype because she writes emotional slow burn romance SO well.
Side Lined felt really grounded and heartfelt. It’s one of those friends-to-lovers stories where the connection is already there from page one, and you spend the whole book watching two people slowly stop fighting what’s been between them all along.
Noah and Em were best friends in college before life, timing, and fear pulled them apart for years. But the moment they reconnect? The comfort between them is still there instantly. The little details they remember about each other, the way they naturally fall back into place together… it felt very soft and very real.
What I liked most about this book was that it wasn’t just focused on romance. Both characters are dealing with a lot internally, especially around feeling worthy of being chosen and loved. Em carries this fear of always being “too much” for people, while Noah is trying to hold together a life that constantly feels one step away from falling apart. Their emotional growth mattered just as much as the relationship itself.
And Noah absolutely made this book for me. Quietly protective MMCs who love through actions instead of speeches will always win. Watching him care for Em while also trying to protect the people around him had me emotional the entire time.
The romance is definitely a slow burn, but it works because the foundation between them already feels so strong. There’s longing, tension, comfort, emotional vulnerability, and that “you’ve always been my person” kind of love that hits every single time.
Also Miles completely stole my heart.
This was emotional, comforting, and full of heart — exactly the kind of sports romance I love getting lost in. 🤍🏈
I will forever stand by the fact that Jaqueline Snowe deserves so much more hype because she writes emotional slow burn romance SO well.
Side Lined felt really grounded and heartfelt. It’s one of those friends-to-lovers stories where the connection is already there from page one, and you spend the whole book watching two people slowly stop fighting what’s been between them all along.
Noah and Em were best friends in college before life, timing, and fear pulled them apart for years. But the moment they reconnect? The comfort between them is still there instantly. The little details they remember about each other, the way they naturally fall back into place together… it felt very soft and very real.
What I liked most about this book was that it wasn’t just focused on romance. Both characters are dealing with a lot internally, especially around feeling worthy of being chosen and loved. Em carries this fear of always being “too much” for people, while Noah is trying to hold together a life that constantly feels one step away from falling apart. Their emotional growth mattered just as much as the relationship itself.
And Noah absolutely made this book for me. Quietly protective MMCs who love through actions instead of speeches will always win. Watching him care for Em while also trying to protect the people around him had me emotional the entire time.
The romance is definitely a slow burn, but it works because the foundation between them already feels so strong. There’s longing, tension, comfort, emotional vulnerability, and that “you’ve always been my person” kind of love that hits every single time.
Also Miles completely stole my heart.
This was emotional, comforting, and full of heart — exactly the kind of sports romance I love getting lost in. 🤍🏈
June 8, 2026
Affinity 💫 Star Read!!!
I was thrilled about this ARC because I’m a huge fan of Friends to Lovers Romance, and this book absolutely delivered. It’s one of my favorites of the year. I couldn’t put it down because I loved it so much and wanted to see what happens next.
The romance between Em and Noah was captivating throughout the book. I was so happy that they got a second chance at being together. Their love for each other was evident, and they showed incredible care and support during their challenging times. They lifted each other up and stood by one another.
I also enjoyed the moments when Em and Noah were with Noah’s nephew, Miles. They were always there for him, and I appreciated their unwavering support. And let’s not forget Em’s adorable dog, Sassy 🐶.
Em’s siblings and Miles’ teammates were also wonderful characters. They loved Em, Noah, and Miles throughout the book and were always there for them when they needed it.
This book had a profound impact on me. It made me laugh, cry, and smile. I felt sorry for Em’s mother, who went through a difficult time with her illness. I also disliked Noah’s parents for how they treated Noah and Em, especially when they wanted custody of their grandchild. I also didn’t like Em’s dad for not supporting her dreams.
However, I was relieved to see that Noah’s parents received help with their grief over their daughter. Em’s dad also got the support he needed, and they were able to have some semblance of a relationship with Em, Noah, and Miles.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Jacqueline Snowe, especially those who enjoy a second chance romance with emotional depth. Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for providing me with the ARC. I’ll definitely be looking out for their future releases.
I was thrilled about this ARC because I’m a huge fan of Friends to Lovers Romance, and this book absolutely delivered. It’s one of my favorites of the year. I couldn’t put it down because I loved it so much and wanted to see what happens next.
The romance between Em and Noah was captivating throughout the book. I was so happy that they got a second chance at being together. Their love for each other was evident, and they showed incredible care and support during their challenging times. They lifted each other up and stood by one another.
I also enjoyed the moments when Em and Noah were with Noah’s nephew, Miles. They were always there for him, and I appreciated their unwavering support. And let’s not forget Em’s adorable dog, Sassy 🐶.
Em’s siblings and Miles’ teammates were also wonderful characters. They loved Em, Noah, and Miles throughout the book and were always there for them when they needed it.
This book had a profound impact on me. It made me laugh, cry, and smile. I felt sorry for Em’s mother, who went through a difficult time with her illness. I also disliked Noah’s parents for how they treated Noah and Em, especially when they wanted custody of their grandchild. I also didn’t like Em’s dad for not supporting her dreams.
However, I was relieved to see that Noah’s parents received help with their grief over their daughter. Em’s dad also got the support he needed, and they were able to have some semblance of a relationship with Em, Noah, and Miles.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Jacqueline Snowe, especially those who enjoy a second chance romance with emotional depth. Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for providing me with the ARC. I’ll definitely be looking out for their future releases.
June 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️ /5
Friends to lovers
He falls first and Hard
Emily is trying to make it into the fashion world. Her parents are hard on her and continuously tell her to grow up. After a night on a Ferris wheel during her college alumni night, her world starts to change.
Noah is a NFL player who has had a crush on Emily since he first laid eyes on her. Though his parents did not like that he went the NFL route, he still continues to thrive. After the night spend with Emily during alumni night, his life changes drastically.
This is a best friend to lover’s book. Noah has loved Emily and it shows through the whole book. Whether it be something that she mentioned years ago, or her face when she is going through any type of emotions. Noah falls first and hard. Where Emily starts to realize that she has feeling for Noah. This is a slow burn friends to lovers.
What I liked:
❤️Both are protective over each other
❤️Her siblings and how supportive they are of her
❤️The epilogue, how thoughtful Noah was during the whole process, continuing to show he remembers anything that has to do about Emily.
❤️ To make Emily feel comfortable after being vulnerable he really does touch base with her through every communication.
What I disliked:
❤️🩹A lot of the buildup tension scenes were… cringe.
❤️🩹When he calls her Honey. Her mom calls her this.
❤️🩹Everything was focused on her and how she was feeling. ❤️🩹He rarely checked on him. Even though she knew what he was going through with his loss and family, it was very focused on him making her feel better. I would’ve liked to see the author focus on his trauma as well and how Emily can do things to help him out.
Thank you Love Notes PR for my E-ARC
🌶️ /5
Friends to lovers
He falls first and Hard
Emily is trying to make it into the fashion world. Her parents are hard on her and continuously tell her to grow up. After a night on a Ferris wheel during her college alumni night, her world starts to change.
Noah is a NFL player who has had a crush on Emily since he first laid eyes on her. Though his parents did not like that he went the NFL route, he still continues to thrive. After the night spend with Emily during alumni night, his life changes drastically.
This is a best friend to lover’s book. Noah has loved Emily and it shows through the whole book. Whether it be something that she mentioned years ago, or her face when she is going through any type of emotions. Noah falls first and hard. Where Emily starts to realize that she has feeling for Noah. This is a slow burn friends to lovers.
What I liked:
❤️Both are protective over each other
❤️Her siblings and how supportive they are of her
❤️The epilogue, how thoughtful Noah was during the whole process, continuing to show he remembers anything that has to do about Emily.
❤️ To make Emily feel comfortable after being vulnerable he really does touch base with her through every communication.
What I disliked:
❤️🩹A lot of the buildup tension scenes were… cringe.
❤️🩹When he calls her Honey. Her mom calls her this.
❤️🩹Everything was focused on her and how she was feeling. ❤️🩹He rarely checked on him. Even though she knew what he was going through with his loss and family, it was very focused on him making her feel better. I would’ve liked to see the author focus on his trauma as well and how Emily can do things to help him out.
Thank you Love Notes PR for my E-ARC
June 8, 2026
Sweet and swoony
This is the second book in the Rampage series, and it was such a delightful read. Noah and Em were absolutely adorable together. Friends-to-lovers isn't usually one of my favorite tropes, but Jacqueline Snowe executed it beautifully. The chemistry between Noah and Em was undeniable, and their relationship developed in a way that felt genuine and heartfelt.
Noah was so caring, thoughtful, supportive, and completely swoon-worthy. He was the ultimate green flag, and his kindness had my stomach doing little happy flips. I especially loved how patient and encouraging he was with Em. Noah saw her potential and constantly reminded her of her worth.
My heart broke for Noah and difficulties he faced over the custody of Miles after his sister's death, he was dealing with the emotional weight of honoring her wishes while facing opposition from his parents. Watching Em support him through this made their connection even more meaningful.
Em was a wonderful. Although she often questioned herself, she never gave up on her dreams. She was relatable, funny, easygoing, and incredibly lovable. Her growth throughout the story was inspiring, and I enjoyed seeing her gain confidence in herself.
The side characters were fantastic as well. Noah's teammates brought so much warmth, humor, and found-family energy to the story. Their unwavering support for one another was heartwarming. And Miles and Sassy were pure cuteness overload—they added so much charm and laughter to every scene they were in.
Overall, this was an easy, enjoyable read filled with sweet romance, lovable characters, and plenty of heart.
This is the second book in the Rampage series, and it was such a delightful read. Noah and Em were absolutely adorable together. Friends-to-lovers isn't usually one of my favorite tropes, but Jacqueline Snowe executed it beautifully. The chemistry between Noah and Em was undeniable, and their relationship developed in a way that felt genuine and heartfelt.
Noah was so caring, thoughtful, supportive, and completely swoon-worthy. He was the ultimate green flag, and his kindness had my stomach doing little happy flips. I especially loved how patient and encouraging he was with Em. Noah saw her potential and constantly reminded her of her worth.
My heart broke for Noah and difficulties he faced over the custody of Miles after his sister's death, he was dealing with the emotional weight of honoring her wishes while facing opposition from his parents. Watching Em support him through this made their connection even more meaningful.
Em was a wonderful. Although she often questioned herself, she never gave up on her dreams. She was relatable, funny, easygoing, and incredibly lovable. Her growth throughout the story was inspiring, and I enjoyed seeing her gain confidence in herself.
The side characters were fantastic as well. Noah's teammates brought so much warmth, humor, and found-family energy to the story. Their unwavering support for one another was heartwarming. And Miles and Sassy were pure cuteness overload—they added so much charm and laughter to every scene they were in.
Overall, this was an easy, enjoyable read filled with sweet romance, lovable characters, and plenty of heart.
June 7, 2026
Loved this book. The only reason it took me so long to finish was due to another arc and also being super busy. I'll admit there was one time I really wanted to throw my kindle.. but then I realized I was at work on a work computer and it would be in my best interest to not throw a monitor... This book was amazing. Jaqueline Snowe is such an amazing author and I am in awe with every book she has released recently (still need to read her backlog). She definitely is an auto-buy author. This book really touched me because she has said it is a love letter to her dog that had unfortunately passed this past year. The dog, Sassy reminded me of my childhood dog. the MMC Noah unfortunately loses his sister Nat and gets guardianship of his nephew Miles. Noah and the FMC Emily went to college together. Emily is the lucky owner of Sassy. Sassy is basically her emotional support dog but seems to be the emotional support dog for everyone. Sassy and Miles are quick friends and I will say I do love how Miles does not have a filter. He truly had me laughing out loud with some of his comments. I am the youngest in my family so I don't have a whole lot exposure to younger kids. Since Noah and Emily know each other from college they are able to pick up their friendship right where they left it. This is a slow-burn book so there is lots of will they won't they but once they do it's chef's kiss. It is an open door romance book which are always favorites for me. I can not stop thinking about this book and am loving this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
4.5⭐|2🌶️|12%🌶️frequency
Oh... I'm not sure if I'm not paying enough attention or if it was just a surprise. But either way, I have a very bad name memory 🙈 But when the name Theo, and the later Aubrey appeared in the book, I remembered 😁 What? Theo is Em's brother from "Through the Ice" (Central State Hockey). I don't know anymore how present Em was in the book, but still, I love such connections 🤩
This book is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. There is the grief Noah has. Because his sister just died, and now he has his grieving nephew to take care of.
There is this "crush" Noah and Em have had for years for each other, but neither dared to confess it.
There are problematic family relationships.
And especially because of the family situation, Em has huge self-esteem problems 😔
So there is a lot going on...
But there are also so many beautiful situations. Especially because of Miles and Sassy. Yeah, a dog is such a perfect helper for a kid, especially when there are mental issues, like grief. Sassy is such a wonderful dog 🩷
Noah and Em are so cute. Yes, sometimes I just wanted to scream: "For f's sake, just say it" 🤣 But I love such moments in books. That's what gives me the kick 😁 That's what makes me love a book. And it was all at the right place 🩷
Thanks to the author and Love Notes PR for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
4.5⭐|2🌶️|12%🌶️frequency
Oh... I'm not sure if I'm not paying enough attention or if it was just a surprise. But either way, I have a very bad name memory 🙈 But when the name Theo, and the later Aubrey appeared in the book, I remembered 😁 What? Theo is Em's brother from "Through the Ice" (Central State Hockey). I don't know anymore how present Em was in the book, but still, I love such connections 🤩
This book is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. There is the grief Noah has. Because his sister just died, and now he has his grieving nephew to take care of.
There is this "crush" Noah and Em have had for years for each other, but neither dared to confess it.
There are problematic family relationships.
And especially because of the family situation, Em has huge self-esteem problems 😔
So there is a lot going on...
But there are also so many beautiful situations. Especially because of Miles and Sassy. Yeah, a dog is such a perfect helper for a kid, especially when there are mental issues, like grief. Sassy is such a wonderful dog 🩷
Noah and Em are so cute. Yes, sometimes I just wanted to scream: "For f's sake, just say it" 🤣 But I love such moments in books. That's what gives me the kick 😁 That's what makes me love a book. And it was all at the right place 🩷
Thanks to the author and Love Notes PR for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
Review of advance copy received from Author
An emotional slow burn romance between two college best friends who lost touch but find their way back to each other despite complications and setbacks.
Noah has loved Em forever, but he has been too afraid to do something about those feelings. Even when they reconnect at an alumni party, he doesn't call and life gets in the way. Em has a history of not being enough, so Noah ghosting her just proves the point. Her struggles with her self esteem and her fear that she is "too much" and Noah's fears that his life is too messy (his parents are horrible in their attempts to steal custody of Miles) are the building blocks of the emotional arc of this story, driving their early interactions as they slowly go from re-establishing their friendship to more.
There are moments of humor, hope, and longing. Miles and Sassy steal their scenes. You know Noah's parents will do something that will hurt everyone involved, and your heart will race as you get to those scenes. All of this keeps the story moving although the book could have been tightened up in spots, especially early on when Noah and Em seem to rehash the same inner monologues on why they will only be friends... it feels a bit repetitive. Setting that aside, however, overall, this is a great friends to lovers, sports romance with enough happening to keep you invested in the HEA, the football team, Miles, and, of course, Sassy.
Noah has loved Em forever, but he has been too afraid to do something about those feelings. Even when they reconnect at an alumni party, he doesn't call and life gets in the way. Em has a history of not being enough, so Noah ghosting her just proves the point. Her struggles with her self esteem and her fear that she is "too much" and Noah's fears that his life is too messy (his parents are horrible in their attempts to steal custody of Miles) are the building blocks of the emotional arc of this story, driving their early interactions as they slowly go from re-establishing their friendship to more.
There are moments of humor, hope, and longing. Miles and Sassy steal their scenes. You know Noah's parents will do something that will hurt everyone involved, and your heart will race as you get to those scenes. All of this keeps the story moving although the book could have been tightened up in spots, especially early on when Noah and Em seem to rehash the same inner monologues on why they will only be friends... it feels a bit repetitive. Setting that aside, however, overall, this is a great friends to lovers, sports romance with enough happening to keep you invested in the HEA, the football team, Miles, and, of course, Sassy.
July 28, 2026
3⭐ 2,5🌶️
*I received this ARC from LoveNotes PR and I'm leaving this review voluntarily*
This was a very sweet and gentle love story between two old best friends reuniting after years. The story in itself was interesting and I enjoyed the characters and how they each dealt with what life threw at them.
I especially connected with the way Noah showed us how everyone deals with grief in their own way, there's no right way to do it and it's okay if it takes time and you take a few steps backwards in order to move forward.
I was so sad to read about little Miles not knowing how to navigate life without his mom, how he struggled at school and trying to find a dynamic with his uncle being his guardian and having his grandparents fight for custody.
His growing relationship with Em and Sassy really brought out the kid in him again and it was beautiful to read.
The reason I rated 3⭐ was that I really struggled to connect with the writers writing style. It was mostly telling and little showing, which had many parts of the story feeling boring and flat. Even the conversations between the characters were so analytical and explanatory that it felt awkward and unnatural. The spice/romance was also fairly awkward due to the same reason so I felt a little weird reading it sometimes.
All in all, it was an alright light romance, perfect for readers preferring NA romance books with sweet moments and soft spice.💕✨
*I received this ARC from LoveNotes PR and I'm leaving this review voluntarily*
This was a very sweet and gentle love story between two old best friends reuniting after years. The story in itself was interesting and I enjoyed the characters and how they each dealt with what life threw at them.
I especially connected with the way Noah showed us how everyone deals with grief in their own way, there's no right way to do it and it's okay if it takes time and you take a few steps backwards in order to move forward.
I was so sad to read about little Miles not knowing how to navigate life without his mom, how he struggled at school and trying to find a dynamic with his uncle being his guardian and having his grandparents fight for custody.
His growing relationship with Em and Sassy really brought out the kid in him again and it was beautiful to read.
The reason I rated 3⭐ was that I really struggled to connect with the writers writing style. It was mostly telling and little showing, which had many parts of the story feeling boring and flat. Even the conversations between the characters were so analytical and explanatory that it felt awkward and unnatural. The spice/romance was also fairly awkward due to the same reason so I felt a little weird reading it sometimes.
All in all, it was an alright light romance, perfect for readers preferring NA romance books with sweet moments and soft spice.💕✨
August 5, 2026
Side Lined Book 2 in the Rampage Series.
Instantly fell in love with Noah and Emily, the way this man cares for Emily and has given up so many chances to shoot his shot because he didn’t want to ruin their friendship, I commend him for his willingness to put those feelings aside to keep their friendship alive.
But when Emily is in need of temporary housing Noah steps in and watching them navigate them being roommates and finally realizing they were meant to be together felt incredibly earned and satisfying. I fully fell into this book and the writing. I probably looked like the biggest weirdo because I couldn’t stop smiling at their story.
Plus the accomplishments that Em made with “the side thing” YES girl, wear that crown!
It was the best it is a friends-to-lovers trope, which is one of my favorites. Both main characters suffer not living up to their parent's expectations, but in spite of that, thrived with their chosen passion.
Sassy plays a main role as an emotional support dog for both Emily and Miles. The book is dedicated to Snowe's dog who crossed the rainbow bridge this year. Beyond the romance, the found family aspect really tugged at my heartstrings. Noah stepping up to take care of his nephew, Miles, was such a beautiful and emotional anchor to the story, and watching Emily bond with them felt so natural and real.
And in the end Noah and Emily show up for what matters and finally see that what they have building is worth the heartache in the end.
Instantly fell in love with Noah and Emily, the way this man cares for Emily and has given up so many chances to shoot his shot because he didn’t want to ruin their friendship, I commend him for his willingness to put those feelings aside to keep their friendship alive.
But when Emily is in need of temporary housing Noah steps in and watching them navigate them being roommates and finally realizing they were meant to be together felt incredibly earned and satisfying. I fully fell into this book and the writing. I probably looked like the biggest weirdo because I couldn’t stop smiling at their story.
Plus the accomplishments that Em made with “the side thing” YES girl, wear that crown!
It was the best it is a friends-to-lovers trope, which is one of my favorites. Both main characters suffer not living up to their parent's expectations, but in spite of that, thrived with their chosen passion.
Sassy plays a main role as an emotional support dog for both Emily and Miles. The book is dedicated to Snowe's dog who crossed the rainbow bridge this year. Beyond the romance, the found family aspect really tugged at my heartstrings. Noah stepping up to take care of his nephew, Miles, was such a beautiful and emotional anchor to the story, and watching Emily bond with them felt so natural and real.
And in the end Noah and Emily show up for what matters and finally see that what they have building is worth the heartache in the end.
June 3, 2026
ARC Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jacqueline Snowe didn't again. My emotions were everywhere with this book, in a good way.
Noah and Em....best friend to lovers romance. Noah is a football player for the Rampage. Em designs clothes and trying to catch her big break. Knew each other in college, went some time without talking and met back up at an alumni event. It's like no time has passed, he wants to confess his feelings for her and does convinces her to email someone from his team about her designs. Unfortunately they get interrupted and Noah says he will call her later. The phone call never came. Em is hurt by Noah not calling. Fast forward a few months...Em gets a job designing team wear for the Rampage. Of course they run into each other. But a lot has happened in Noah's life in the last few months. He now has guardianship of his nephew. Then Em's apartment floods and she calls a friend, she happens to be at Noah's with a group of people. Noah tells Em to get her stuff and he's coming for her. He makes her move in with him.
So now we are in close proximity and both have feelings for each other. But we have a 5 year old and some grandparents that are trying to take him. Will Noah and Em be able to confess their feelings? Will Noah get to keep his guardianship of his nephew?
Must read to find out.....such a good read.
Slow burn, but when it gets to the spice. It's worth it 🌶️🌶️🌶️🥵
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jacqueline Snowe didn't again. My emotions were everywhere with this book, in a good way.
Noah and Em....best friend to lovers romance. Noah is a football player for the Rampage. Em designs clothes and trying to catch her big break. Knew each other in college, went some time without talking and met back up at an alumni event. It's like no time has passed, he wants to confess his feelings for her and does convinces her to email someone from his team about her designs. Unfortunately they get interrupted and Noah says he will call her later. The phone call never came. Em is hurt by Noah not calling. Fast forward a few months...Em gets a job designing team wear for the Rampage. Of course they run into each other. But a lot has happened in Noah's life in the last few months. He now has guardianship of his nephew. Then Em's apartment floods and she calls a friend, she happens to be at Noah's with a group of people. Noah tells Em to get her stuff and he's coming for her. He makes her move in with him.
So now we are in close proximity and both have feelings for each other. But we have a 5 year old and some grandparents that are trying to take him. Will Noah and Em be able to confess their feelings? Will Noah get to keep his guardianship of his nephew?
Must read to find out.....such a good read.
Slow burn, but when it gets to the spice. It's worth it 🌶️🌶️🌶️🥵
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews