Offside-Limits Quarterback

by Esther Jade

I get sacked mid-game, wreck my shoulder, and suddenly I’m stuck with her.
Amber Reed, the too-cheerful team therapist who believes in “positive energy” and towel dividers on shared beds.

Yeah. Shared beds.

She talks too much. Smiles too wide. Looks at me like I’m salvageable.
I hate how much I want her to be right.

Then some photographer catches us post-gala looking a little too cozy.
The team spins it into PR gold.

Now we’re faking a relationship for the cameras.
Public hand-holding. Private restraint.

Except the line between fake and real is blurring fast.

I watch her laugh with my teammates, dream out loud, sleep curled up in my hoodie.
And somehow, this therapist becomes the only thing keeping me sane.

But someone’s gunning for her.
Slipping threats into her locker.

And if I can’t protect her.

I’ll lose the one person who ever saw through the armor.

ebook

First published September 14, 2025

Reviews

[Leo D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't a book of grand gestures, the romance is built in the small, quiet details. The way Jax watches Amber, how he steps up to defend her against an old rival, or the way she meets his every challenge with a patient smile that's where the real connection forms. It's a beautiful, realistic progression that shows love is found in the everyday moments.

[Jetscarbie · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5 ⭐️ I’m not sure if my kindle downloaded the book wrong or what, but there were major parts that were disjointed. The plot was not bad, but the way it would abruptly skip between scenes was jarring. (Possible spoilers ahead)
I was shocked at all the high ratings, so maybe my copy was corrupt. 🤷‍♀️


Just a few issues that left me scratching my head:
The first smex scene-I couldn’t figure out if he was just dreaming it or if it was actually happening. It never showed the moment afterwards, it just skipped to 3 days later. Neither MC even thought/mentioned the smex moment again. It was so randomly thrown in there

h’s ex is mentioned throughout the book as Drew. Then it changes to Nate. I couldn’t even figure out how he was connected to the team. Then when they were trying to think of suspects, a few random names were thrown in.

The backup QB- what comeuppance did he get for setting this all up?

Why were the MCs made to fake date for PR, but then she was fired for it not being fake? It just didn’t make any sense. None of the conflict made sense.

One moment, h is ONLY wearing a sweatshirt. The next, H is lifting her skirt. Or H was wearing sweatpants, then he mentions he wasn’t proposing without pants on. 🙃 I mean….there are multiple instances of this happening in this book. Those inconsistencies made it hard to get through this book.

When h was fired, it showed that she was leaving and she told H it was just for a bit while she got “her head right” but she would be back. Then 1 month later, he has to go grovel. Why?

“ “ quote marks were used randomly in places where it didn’t need to be, or they wouldn’t be used in spots where the characters were talking. Sometimes it was hard to tell if a character was saying or thinking something.

I couldn’t figure out h’s whole dynamics with the team. It started off where it seemed like the team respected her, but then they were all laughing and making jokes about her. Also, H was some amazing QB, but he had absolutely no pull with the higher-ups?

I don’t know squat about how real NFL teams work, but I can’t imagine any NFL team forcing a male to room with his female physical therapist. Come on! I GET authors like to do forced proximity or one bed storylines, but it needs to be half way believable……or a dark romance with an OTT alpha male. 😂

Finally…the smex scenes. Awkward. I thought at first it was going to be closed door scenes (and it did act like that) but then at the end there were open door scenes that were (not sure what word would accurately describe them)…….?????

Not my vibe

[rochelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story drew me in from the start and kept me turning the pages with delight. Amber, the team therapist for the Houston Breakers, is passionate, dedicated, and warm—a personality shaped in order to thrive in a male-dominated environment. Jax Taylor, the team’s quarterback, is her opposite: focused, controlling, and at times impossible. When he’s placed under her care for rehab after an injury, their contrasting personalities spark both friction and chemistry.

After an incident at a gala, the PR and coaching staff push Amber and Jax into a fake relationship. What begins as a façade becomes a layered journey of trust, vulnerability, and slow-building intensity. Their connection is marked by constant push and pull—opening up, shutting down, crossing boundaries, and learning how to rebuild them.

Adding to the tension are anonymous messages they both receive, which heighten the pressure on their already fragile dynamic. This isn’t a story of characters simply falling in love—it’s about growing into love. The narrative takes you through subtle shifts, heated friction, the challenges of workplace politics, media scrutiny, and the balancing act of finding love without losing one’s identity.

Esther Jade does a wonderful job of weaving it all together, creating a romance that feels both authentic and deeply engaging. The only drawback is the need for editing, as Amber is given multiple surnames throughout—Cole, Reyes, Blake, and in the blurb, Reed—which can be confusing.

A strong, heartfelt sports romance with intensity, growth, and emotional depth.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[MhiZ Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was completely captivated by the character development in this story. Jax, the arrogant, broody quarterback, is a fantastic hero to watch unfold. The author does a brilliant job of peeling back his layers, showing his vulnerability beneath the tough exterior. And Amber is more than just a cheerful therapist; she's a strong, resilient woman who knows her worth. Their growth, both individually and as a couple, is the heart of this book.

[Sol Ek · Rating 4 out of 5]

What truly sets this book apart is its exploration of identity. Jax isn't just an arrogant quarterback; he's a man whose sense of self is tied to his physical ability. Amber isn't just a cheerful therapist; she's a professional who finds strength in her positivity. The story does an incredible job of showing how their unexpected connection forces them to face who they are without their usual armor. It's a deep, introspective read disguised as a hot sports romance.

[Emil Isaksson · Rating 5 out of 5]

his is a masterclass in building a relationship from the ground up. I loved how the story starts with two people who are barely tolerating each other and slowly, through small, believable moments, builds a genuine connection. There's no sudden, out-of-character shift; instead, you see Jax's subtle defense of Amber at the gala and his small gestures in the rehab gym. Every step they take toward each other feels earned and makes the romance so much more satisfying.

[Hanin Holmgren · Rating 5 out of 5]

his is a masterclass in building a relationship from the ground up. I loved how the story starts with two people who are barely tolerating each other and slowly, through small, believable moments, builds a genuine connection. There's no sudden, out of character shift; instead, you see Jax's subtle defense of Amber at the gala and his small gestures in the rehab gym. Every step they take toward each other feels earned and makes the romance so much more satisfying.

[Amelia Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're skeptical of romance novels, this is the one for you. It's grounded in a realistic world, and the characters don't fall in love for ridiculous reasons. Their connection is built on shared frustration, mutual respect, and a dawning realization that they're a lot more alike than they want to admit. The story feels refreshingly honest and avoids all the over the top cliches, making the emotional payoff truly resonate.

[Sophia Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I found most compelling was what wasn't said. The author uses silence and subtle actions to convey so much. The tension in the elevator after the gala, the brief, meaningful touch in the rain, and the quiet understanding in the hallway after the team's teasing these moments are more powerful than any dialogue could be. The book does an amazing job of showing the emotional shifts between the characters without them ever having to say a word.

[Dalia Paloma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really drawn to the way the book incorporates the high pressure world of professional football. It’s not just a backdrop; it’s a constant source of conflict. The story shows the immense pressure on Jax, the scrutiny he's under, and the professional risks Amber takes for him. This realistic environment adds a sense of high stakes and authenticity to their relationship, making it feel like it's a romance against all odds.

[Jonas Ilias · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first chapter, the love interest completely drew me in. His inner conflict about wanting someone he shouldn’t created such a strong sense of tension. Every decision he made had me wondering if he’d finally give in, and when he did, it was so rewarding. The mix of loyalty, family, and forbidden attraction made this more than just a love story.

[Estelle Gaia · Rating 4 out of 5]

More than just a fun romance, this book has real emotional depth. The story touches on themes of identity, fear of failure, and what it means to heal, both physically and emotionally. I loved watching Amber not only fix Jax's body but also help him confront the emotional demons that were holding him back. It's a heartwarming journey that left me with a lump in my throat.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

The slow burn in this romance is exquisite. The author builds the chemistry between Jax and Amber with incredible patience, starting with sharp words and escalating to stolen glances and charged moments. The tension is palpable, and the payoff is absolutely worth the wait. It’s the kind of book that makes you believe in true, sizzling chemistry.

[Noemi Chiara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a lot of sports romances, but this one felt fresh and unique. The focus on the physical therapist's role and her unwavering professionalism added a new dimension to the "she helps him heal" trope. It's not just about a cheerleader and a quarterback; it's about two professionals who challenge and support each other in ways I haven't seen before.

[Evelyn Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is just so funny! Beyond the romantic tension, the humor is what really stands out. From Jax's grumpy inner thoughts to Amber's perfectly timed comebacks, I was laughing out loud on almost every page. The witty banter is a constant source of entertainment and makes their relationship feel so real.

[Joaquim Nassim · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author does a fantastic job of building the world and the atmosphere. I could feel the energy of the stadium, the quiet claustrophobia of the hotel suite, and the sterile environment of the rehab clinic. These settings aren't just backdrops; they are key to the story and really draw you into the characters' lives.

[Scout Hilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

While the focus is on Jax and Amber, I loved the subtle "found family" element with the team. You get a sense of the camaraderie and respect, which makes Jax's struggles feel even more real. Their interactions with the coach and the rest of the staff add a wonderful layer that makes the story feel richer and more complete.

[Barbara Harrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have a tissue handy on the day you allow for this slow-bulid, steamy, off-limits, sports injury romance between quarterback Jax Taylor of the Houston Havok and his therapist, Amber, with grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, and the occasional laugh-out-loud.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a book that keeps you on your toes, and this one does it perfectly. The way the author weaves in the suspense plot, with the threats against Amber, elevates the entire story. It's not just a fake-dating romance; it's a high-stakes tale of a man who discovers something worth fighting for. The combination of slow-burn romance and thrilling suspense is executed flawlessly.

[Ava Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of this story's narrative voice. Reading from Jax's perspective adds so much to the experience. His internal monologue is a brilliant blend of cynicism, self-awareness, and growing confusion as Amber slowly breaks down his walls. It's not just about what he says; it's about what he's thinking, and that makes his transformation all the more satisfying.

[Adora · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author has an incredible knack for creating a vivid, immersive world. You can feel the tension and hear the hush of the crowd after the tackle, smell the eucalyptus in the rehab gym, and feel the cold rain at the gala. These sensory details pull you deep into the story and make you feel like you're right there with the characters, experiencing their every emotion.

[Caspian Lundin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author has an incredible knack for creating a vivid, immersive world. You can feel the tension and hear the hush of the crowd after the tackle, smell the eucalyptus in the rehab gym, and feel the cold rain at the gala. These sensory details pull you deep into the story and make you feel like you're right there with the characters, experiencing their every emotion.

[Scott R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was totally caught off guard by the new layer of suspense that was introduced. The new character adds a fantastic, high stakes element to the story that makes you worry for the characters safety. It takes the us against the world trope to a whole new level, and I can't wait to see how they handle it together. This book is the perfect mix of heart-pounding romance and heart-stopping plot.

[Walter A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amber is an incredible heroine. She's not just the sweet foil to the grumpy hero; she is a strong, confident professional who refuses to be intimidated. She challenges Jax, calls him out on his behavior, and never compromises her integrity. Her strength is what makes her so captivating, and it's what makes her the only person capable of seeing the real man behind the armor.

[Frederick L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a masterclass in pacing. The author expertly controls the slow burn, using a fantastic mix of fast, witty dialogue and quiet, intimate scenes. Every moment feels intentional, from the initial hostile humor to the charged glances in an elevator. The slow build of their bond makes the romance feel incredibly genuine and well earned.

[Rami Martinsson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a sucker for books where the characters feel like real people, and this one nailed it. The author does an incredible job of getting into Jax and Amber's heads. I felt their frustrations, their tiny moments of triumph, and the slow, reluctant pull between them. Their individual struggles are just as compelling as their shared romance, making for a truly satisfying character arc.

[Paul R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you live for the will they/won't they tension, this book is your new best friend. The author makes you wait for every little piece of a kiss and every emotional reveal. The slow burn is agonizing in the best way possible, and the payoff is absolutely explosive. It’s a masterclass in building romantic tension.

[L KQ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Therapy Healing

Amber and Jax engage in a fake relationship but as real feelings begin to surface so does the appearance of mysterious notes. This was a well rounded story with steam, intrigue and overall surprises. I did not want to put it down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Daniel Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amber is my new favorite heroine! She's strong and kind, and her optimism is a force, not a weakness. I love how she never backs down from Jax's grumpiness and holds her own in every interaction. She's proof that a heroine doesn't have to be loud or dramatic to be memorable and powerful.

[Jeff Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a perfect escape, this is it. It’s a feel good, emotionally satisfying, and genuinely fun read that will lift your spirits. I read it on a gloomy weekend, and it completely brightened my mood. It’s a great book to get lost in when you need a break from reality.