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Abby Offsides
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Expected 23 Jun 26In this witty and heartfelt debut, a woman's impulsive journey across the pond after a broken engagement leads her to a new love—and a new version of herself.
Seeking a fresh start after leaving her cheating fiancé, Abby McIntyre makes a series of spontaneous decisions: She quits her job. She books a one-way flight to the UK. She even gets bangs!
Newly arrived in Liverpool, she lands a job with the Mersey Football Club and meets Lachlan Ramsay, the recently recruited Scottish star midfielder. Both lonely in a new city, the pair bond quickly, and Abby finds it nearly impossible to deny their chemistry—despite the nagging guilt she feels about Lachlan’s mysterious wife who didn’t relocate with her husband.
When Abby’s housing falls through, Lachlan insists she move into his massive penthouse. As they spend almost every waking moment together, Abby wonders if it’s possible that the world-famous footballer could be falling for her, too. But with her job and his marriage dependent on them staying firmly in the friend zone, can Abby risk being caught offside?
Crackling with witty banter and palpable sexual tension, Abby Offsides is at once a smoldering, slow-burn romance and a nuanced exploration of one woman’s journey to reclaim her own dreams and desires after years of living life on autopilot.
Seeking a fresh start after leaving her cheating fiancé, Abby McIntyre makes a series of spontaneous decisions: She quits her job. She books a one-way flight to the UK. She even gets bangs!
Newly arrived in Liverpool, she lands a job with the Mersey Football Club and meets Lachlan Ramsay, the recently recruited Scottish star midfielder. Both lonely in a new city, the pair bond quickly, and Abby finds it nearly impossible to deny their chemistry—despite the nagging guilt she feels about Lachlan’s mysterious wife who didn’t relocate with her husband.
When Abby’s housing falls through, Lachlan insists she move into his massive penthouse. As they spend almost every waking moment together, Abby wonders if it’s possible that the world-famous footballer could be falling for her, too. But with her job and his marriage dependent on them staying firmly in the friend zone, can Abby risk being caught offside?
Crackling with witty banter and palpable sexual tension, Abby Offsides is at once a smoldering, slow-burn romance and a nuanced exploration of one woman’s journey to reclaim her own dreams and desires after years of living life on autopilot.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 23, 2026
9 people are currently reading
749 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
November 12, 2025
First of all, I have to admit something crucial: I LOVE football (and yes, it's blasphemy to call it soccer—it's FOOTBALL, dear readers!). I come from a family of passionate football lovers who took me to matches when I was only five years old! I had my designated groups in the stadiums, my sacred match-day routines, and I know the entire rulebook—probably better than some TV sports commentators, if I'm being honest. I've arrived late to my prom, my wedding day, and important meetings when they conflicted with my team's matches, so yes, I breathe and live this sport. Naturally, this made me the perfect fit to dive headfirst into this book with unbridled enthusiasm!
There are striking similarities with my favorite Apple TV show, Ted Lasso—only gender-reversed! We have an American learning the rules of the British Premier League, a friendship forged between wounded souls, troubled marriages, and healing from the damage inflicted by toxic exes. It also reminds me of Ted and Rebecca's dynamic (though they're unfortunately not meant to be romantically—though I'm STILL keeping my hopes up for a surprising upcoming season in Kansas featuring the women's soccer league!). Anyway, let's return to this debut novel, which I mostly enjoyed, especially the entertaining job interview opening where Abby decides to leave her life in the States behind and become part of Mersey Football Club in Liverpool. She wants to showcase her social media marketing skills, even though she doesn't know much about the sport—but her confidence and determination were enough to hook me immediately!
After her meeting with grumpy but gorgeously, mouth-wateringly hot Lachlan Ramsay, the storyline's resemblance to Ted and Rebecca quickly shifted into something more reminiscent of Keeley and Roy Kent's relationship (though Abby is vastly different from Keeley's bubbly personality, Lachlan's grumpiness and no-nonsense demeanor absolutely reminded me of Roy's energy). Lachlan is a Scottish star midfielder recently transferred from Spain, with a mysterious wife Abby never gets the chance to meet. Their dynamic starts with a slight enemies-to-lovers vibe—mostly grumpy-meets-partial-sunshine energy—then gradually transforms into friends-to-lovers with delicious slow-burn progression and forced proximity thrown into the equation when Abby's housing situation falls apart and she moves into Lachlan's luxurious penthouse.
The chemistry? Absolutely scorching. The banter? Brilliantly executed and laugh-out-loud funny. As both a football fanatic and a devoted Ted Lasso enthusiast, it was impossible for me not to thoroughly enjoy this book, which expertly weaves together several beloved tropes. I especially loved the themes of self-discovery and learning to differentiate right from wrong as Abby tries desperately to hold back her growing feelings because she believes she's falling for a married man. She respects the ethics of her profession and doesn't want to lose the job she's worked so hard to secure.
The only thing that made me drop my rating to 3.5 stars (and this is hard to explain without spoiling anything) is that certain communication issues in this book dragged on unrealistically long for normal, rational people, which significantly affected the entire progression between the main characters. I genuinely wished the obstacles could have been constructed differently or resolved more naturally. Besides that one frustration, this is a fun, easy-to-read, thoroughly enjoyable debut from an author whose sarcastic, engaging tone I absolutely loved. I'm genuinely looking forward to reading her upcoming works!
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine/Dell for providing me with this entertaining rom-com's digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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There are striking similarities with my favorite Apple TV show, Ted Lasso—only gender-reversed! We have an American learning the rules of the British Premier League, a friendship forged between wounded souls, troubled marriages, and healing from the damage inflicted by toxic exes. It also reminds me of Ted and Rebecca's dynamic (though they're unfortunately not meant to be romantically—though I'm STILL keeping my hopes up for a surprising upcoming season in Kansas featuring the women's soccer league!). Anyway, let's return to this debut novel, which I mostly enjoyed, especially the entertaining job interview opening where Abby decides to leave her life in the States behind and become part of Mersey Football Club in Liverpool. She wants to showcase her social media marketing skills, even though she doesn't know much about the sport—but her confidence and determination were enough to hook me immediately!
After her meeting with grumpy but gorgeously, mouth-wateringly hot Lachlan Ramsay, the storyline's resemblance to Ted and Rebecca quickly shifted into something more reminiscent of Keeley and Roy Kent's relationship (though Abby is vastly different from Keeley's bubbly personality, Lachlan's grumpiness and no-nonsense demeanor absolutely reminded me of Roy's energy). Lachlan is a Scottish star midfielder recently transferred from Spain, with a mysterious wife Abby never gets the chance to meet. Their dynamic starts with a slight enemies-to-lovers vibe—mostly grumpy-meets-partial-sunshine energy—then gradually transforms into friends-to-lovers with delicious slow-burn progression and forced proximity thrown into the equation when Abby's housing situation falls apart and she moves into Lachlan's luxurious penthouse.
The chemistry? Absolutely scorching. The banter? Brilliantly executed and laugh-out-loud funny. As both a football fanatic and a devoted Ted Lasso enthusiast, it was impossible for me not to thoroughly enjoy this book, which expertly weaves together several beloved tropes. I especially loved the themes of self-discovery and learning to differentiate right from wrong as Abby tries desperately to hold back her growing feelings because she believes she's falling for a married man. She respects the ethics of her profession and doesn't want to lose the job she's worked so hard to secure.
The only thing that made me drop my rating to 3.5 stars (and this is hard to explain without spoiling anything) is that certain communication issues in this book dragged on unrealistically long for normal, rational people, which significantly affected the entire progression between the main characters. I genuinely wished the obstacles could have been constructed differently or resolved more naturally. Besides that one frustration, this is a fun, easy-to-read, thoroughly enjoyable debut from an author whose sarcastic, engaging tone I absolutely loved. I'm genuinely looking forward to reading her upcoming works!
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine/Dell for providing me with this entertaining rom-com's digital reviewer copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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October 25, 2025
Abby finds herself in Liverpool, thousands of miles from home, after calling off her wedding to her cheating fiancé. When she lands a content creator role for a professional football (aka soccer) team, she meets Lachlan Ramsey — handsome, funny, kind… and married. Though Lachlan and his wife, Claire, are clearly on the rocks and have already filed for separation, something still holds him back from Abby. It all comes to a crashing head on New Year’s Eve — words are said, mistakes are made, and hearts are broken. Can Abby and Lachlan find a way through the mess?
Okay, first of all — this book is a masterpiece. Second of all, I wanted to throw my Kindle against the wall more than once. Both characters are painfully avoidant, and it drove me absolutely mad (in the best way). Around 70% in, something happened that made me have to take a walk to cool off. But that’s the power of a good book — it makes you feel everything.
It was laugh-out-loud funny, the humor was 10/10, and I highlighted a million witty lines. The angst and sexual tension were unmatched, and the slow burn? Torturous in the most delicious way. I couldn’t put it down. Not gonna lie, I was kicking my feet more than a few times. Complicated, emotional, funny, and full of heart — I loved every minute.
Tropes:
🔥 Forbidden romance
💬 Friends to lovers
⚽ Professional athlete
💞 Slow burn
Thank you to NetGalley and Dell for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Okay, first of all — this book is a masterpiece. Second of all, I wanted to throw my Kindle against the wall more than once. Both characters are painfully avoidant, and it drove me absolutely mad (in the best way). Around 70% in, something happened that made me have to take a walk to cool off. But that’s the power of a good book — it makes you feel everything.
It was laugh-out-loud funny, the humor was 10/10, and I highlighted a million witty lines. The angst and sexual tension were unmatched, and the slow burn? Torturous in the most delicious way. I couldn’t put it down. Not gonna lie, I was kicking my feet more than a few times. Complicated, emotional, funny, and full of heart — I loved every minute.
Tropes:
🔥 Forbidden romance
💬 Friends to lovers
⚽ Professional athlete
💞 Slow burn
Thank you to NetGalley and Dell for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2025
Right off the bat, I knew this book was going to lean full rom-com in the best way. And when I pick up a rom-com, I want to know that’s what I’m getting into. From the very first chapter, Abby’s personality jumps off the page—quick-witted, sharp as a tack, effortlessly funny. Every one of her relationships, from friendships to colleagues to romance, has this warm, genuine feel that makes you root for her instantly.
Nobody loves a storyline where the “other woman” wins… but this book handles that angle so differently. It is that trope, but also absolutely not. You really have to read through to the end to understand how thoughtfully it’s done.
What I loved most was watching Abby find herself over the course of the story. It isn’t just a romance—it’s a journey of self-worth and stepping into your own life with confidence.
This is a slow-burn, soccer-themed rom-com, but you definitely don’t need to know anything about soccer to follow along. Some of the phrases the characters use went right over my head at first, but they fit the tone perfectly and added charm instead of confusion.
Abby and Lachlan’s progression felt natural, sweet, and genuinely satisfying. Overall, I really enjoyed the entire story and the heart behind it.
If this is going to end up a series, there are so many side characters with perfect main character energy.
Nobody loves a storyline where the “other woman” wins… but this book handles that angle so differently. It is that trope, but also absolutely not. You really have to read through to the end to understand how thoughtfully it’s done.
What I loved most was watching Abby find herself over the course of the story. It isn’t just a romance—it’s a journey of self-worth and stepping into your own life with confidence.
This is a slow-burn, soccer-themed rom-com, but you definitely don’t need to know anything about soccer to follow along. Some of the phrases the characters use went right over my head at first, but they fit the tone perfectly and added charm instead of confusion.
Abby and Lachlan’s progression felt natural, sweet, and genuinely satisfying. Overall, I really enjoyed the entire story and the heart behind it.
If this is going to end up a series, there are so many side characters with perfect main character energy.
November 21, 2025
*ARC review 11/21/25*
This book had such a good premise to it that I was excited to read it, but I had some “issues” with it.
There was so much telling rather than showing. A lot of conversations we were just told bits of what happened/how Abby felt about it, but not given the actual dialogue so we didn’t get to hear the conversations ourselves. Sure, not every conversation needs to be given dialogue, but there were quite a few places where it felt important to the story and it just wasn’t there.
Now, I understand that Abby and Lachlan are friends first. But that’s all I got from them. I felt no chemistry, whatsoever. Up until the last like five chapters, they had no serious or even semi-serious conversations/interactions. There was just constant banter back and forth and it started to get annoying and unrealistic (this may just be a me problem because I am very much an introvert).
Lastly, the constant time jumps. We would hear about Abby or Abby and Lachlan together going to do something and then it would just jump to a different day without us actually seeing what they’re doing. It could be a couple days, a few weeks, or a month later. It was constant and kept throwing me out of the story. Which this story lasted like a year and I just felt like nothing actually happened? The biggest conflict I felt was where is Abby supposed to live when she keeps leaving or getting kicked out of people’s homes.
These all very well could just be my problems, but the book sadly just fell flat for me.
This book had such a good premise to it that I was excited to read it, but I had some “issues” with it.
There was so much telling rather than showing. A lot of conversations we were just told bits of what happened/how Abby felt about it, but not given the actual dialogue so we didn’t get to hear the conversations ourselves. Sure, not every conversation needs to be given dialogue, but there were quite a few places where it felt important to the story and it just wasn’t there.
Now, I understand that Abby and Lachlan are friends first. But that’s all I got from them. I felt no chemistry, whatsoever. Up until the last like five chapters, they had no serious or even semi-serious conversations/interactions. There was just constant banter back and forth and it started to get annoying and unrealistic (this may just be a me problem because I am very much an introvert).
Lastly, the constant time jumps. We would hear about Abby or Abby and Lachlan together going to do something and then it would just jump to a different day without us actually seeing what they’re doing. It could be a couple days, a few weeks, or a month later. It was constant and kept throwing me out of the story. Which this story lasted like a year and I just felt like nothing actually happened? The biggest conflict I felt was where is Abby supposed to live when she keeps leaving or getting kicked out of people’s homes.
These all very well could just be my problems, but the book sadly just fell flat for me.
November 18, 2025
✨I can’t believe this is a debut. Anna McCallie cracked the rom-com code with this one: warm, funny, heartfelt, and so beautifully written I had to stop and feel it over and over again. 🤯
The meet cute? Legendary. It cracked the whole book wide open and had me rooting for them from the very beginning. I laughed out loud. I clutched my chest. I teared up. I felt everything with Abby throughout her whole journey and that’s rare. 🥹📣
From the first chapter, I was hooked. The banter? Unreal. Abby’s voice is fresh and full of heart, and watching her uproot her life, take this huge chance, and slowly begin to fall in love again; with the game, with herself, and with love itself was just stunning. As an expat myself, I could really relate to the effort it takes to relearn and rebuild, not just your own life abroad, but establishing and maintaining friendships - this book handles it so truthfully and beautifully.
This book was everything I want in a rom-com: sharp banter, deep heart, laugh-out-loud joy, and a love story that sticks with you. I feel lucky to have read it, and even luckier knowing this author is just getting started. 🫶📖
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Dell and Random House for sharing this beautiful ARC with me! 🥰
The meet cute? Legendary. It cracked the whole book wide open and had me rooting for them from the very beginning. I laughed out loud. I clutched my chest. I teared up. I felt everything with Abby throughout her whole journey and that’s rare. 🥹📣
From the first chapter, I was hooked. The banter? Unreal. Abby’s voice is fresh and full of heart, and watching her uproot her life, take this huge chance, and slowly begin to fall in love again; with the game, with herself, and with love itself was just stunning. As an expat myself, I could really relate to the effort it takes to relearn and rebuild, not just your own life abroad, but establishing and maintaining friendships - this book handles it so truthfully and beautifully.
This book was everything I want in a rom-com: sharp banter, deep heart, laugh-out-loud joy, and a love story that sticks with you. I feel lucky to have read it, and even luckier knowing this author is just getting started. 🫶📖
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Dell and Random House for sharing this beautiful ARC with me! 🥰
November 23, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine/Dell for the ARC!
(maybe 3.5/5?)
This was so rom-commy it hurt (in a good way). It felt very classic with larger than life characters and a cute little premise. Abby was truly messy like her Bridget Jones foremother, and Lachlan was for sure... there. There were some moments between them that made me really smile, and I really liked the progression of their relationship through its whole arc. I was also happy in the book's attempt to humanize Lachlan's ex-wife and emphasize how she, Abby, and Lachlan all had some blame. It was especially nice how it wasn't afraid to call out its characters' shortcomings in creating the problem at the core of the novel.
Super breezy read despite the (in my opinion) overuse of five-dollar-words, and I'm happy to read a sports romance that at least somewhat centers the sport and what it can do to the people around it (see: my most recent reviews). I can see this becoming very popular with the right crowd, and I'm excited to see what Anna McCallie writes next!
(maybe 3.5/5?)
This was so rom-commy it hurt (in a good way). It felt very classic with larger than life characters and a cute little premise. Abby was truly messy like her Bridget Jones foremother, and Lachlan was for sure... there. There were some moments between them that made me really smile, and I really liked the progression of their relationship through its whole arc. I was also happy in the book's attempt to humanize Lachlan's ex-wife and emphasize how she, Abby, and Lachlan all had some blame. It was especially nice how it wasn't afraid to call out its characters' shortcomings in creating the problem at the core of the novel.
Super breezy read despite the (in my opinion) overuse of five-dollar-words, and I'm happy to read a sports romance that at least somewhat centers the sport and what it can do to the people around it (see: my most recent reviews). I can see this becoming very popular with the right crowd, and I'm excited to see what Anna McCallie writes next!
December 6, 2025
Abby Offsides was an absolute standout romcom read for me. The character development was strong, the pacing flowed so well, and the premise pulled me in right away. I stayed hooked from start to finish and truly loved the story. I’ll absolutely be reading more from this author. It was such a great read and I highly recommend!
December 10, 2025
This was FAN👏🏼TAS👏🏼TIC👏🏼. Absolutely loved it. Would have read it in one sitting but paced myself to extend the experience.
I think you'll agree if you're forever on the hunt for:
Exceptional banter. I'm talking SEP-levels of wit and callbacks.1
True friendship chemistry between the MCs. Sure, Abby (the sole POV character) identifies Lachlan as a sexy man. Because she has eyes. But she wasn't constantly lusting after him, and you could tell they truly enjoyed each other's company. 2
Gradual sexual tension. I'm talking to the point that I would have sued for physical distress if there wasn't sex scene near the end. 3>/sup>
A messy FMC who isn't TSTL. With multiple friends! Many of whom are men! Plus, she's into sports. All without a speck of NLOG energy.
Three-dimensional supporting characters. Each of Abby's friends have personalities and lives that don't revolve around the Main Character.4 Lachlan's teammates are distinguishable from each other (!)
[Minor Spoilers Ahead]
The OW drama was real, ya'll. In fact, at one point I was concerned this wasn't a true HEA. But I appreciate that the author subverted this reader's expectations and that Lachlan's marriage wasn't explained away with misunderstandings or miscommunications. There were nuances, and dude was truly conflicted. And his wife wasn't the caricature you'd expect from a WAG. 5
Don't worry, there was a HEA. And it does not involve a saccharine epilogue with an engagement and/or baby. Nope, the author did such a good job convincing us these two kids were gonna make it that she didn't need to jump ahead ten years just to prove it.
Gosh, I just want to scream from the rooftops (or rather, in r/Romancebooks) about how good this was. I guess my only real issue with this book, then, is that it doesn't come out until freakin' JUNE.
Well done, Anna McCallie. I wish you had a back catalogue I could devour and am looking forward to your (hopefully many) follow-ups.
Thank you so so so so much to the author, publisher, Netgalley, and any other powers that be for the ARC. I promise I wasn't paid for this review lol
1 Although the multiple references to how good their banter was took away from the magic a lil bit.
2 Aided, I think, by the lack of Lachlan's POV keeping it out of insta-lust territory.
3 Which is very unlike me. I usually find late third-act sex scenes gratituous. Not here. This one was necessary for my health.
4 I will say that the conflict between Abby and her Stateside BFF was the one point in the story where I got frustrated while reading. But after thinking about it some more, I decided his reaction and his stubbornness was actually very realistic and human, which is what made it even more aggravating.
5 Plus, Abby gets to (gasp!) hook up with another team hottie while she waits for Lachlan to get his shit together.
I think you'll agree if you're forever on the hunt for:
Exceptional banter. I'm talking SEP-levels of wit and callbacks.1
True friendship chemistry between the MCs. Sure, Abby (the sole POV character) identifies Lachlan as a sexy man. Because she has eyes. But she wasn't constantly lusting after him, and you could tell they truly enjoyed each other's company. 2
Gradual sexual tension. I'm talking to the point that I would have sued for physical distress if there wasn't sex scene near the end. 3>/sup>
A messy FMC who isn't TSTL. With multiple friends! Many of whom are men! Plus, she's into sports. All without a speck of NLOG energy.
Three-dimensional supporting characters. Each of Abby's friends have personalities and lives that don't revolve around the Main Character.4 Lachlan's teammates are distinguishable from each other (!)
[Minor Spoilers Ahead]
The OW drama was real, ya'll. In fact, at one point I was concerned this wasn't a true HEA. But I appreciate that the author subverted this reader's expectations and that Lachlan's marriage wasn't explained away with misunderstandings or miscommunications. There were nuances, and dude was truly conflicted. And his wife wasn't the caricature you'd expect from a WAG. 5
Don't worry, there was a HEA. And it does not involve a saccharine epilogue with an engagement and/or baby. Nope, the author did such a good job convincing us these two kids were gonna make it that she didn't need to jump ahead ten years just to prove it.
Gosh, I just want to scream from the rooftops (or rather, in r/Romancebooks) about how good this was. I guess my only real issue with this book, then, is that it doesn't come out until freakin' JUNE.
Well done, Anna McCallie. I wish you had a back catalogue I could devour and am looking forward to your (hopefully many) follow-ups.
Thank you so so so so much to the author, publisher, Netgalley, and any other powers that be for the ARC. I promise I wasn't paid for this review lol
1 Although the multiple references to how good their banter was took away from the magic a lil bit.
2 Aided, I think, by the lack of Lachlan's POV keeping it out of insta-lust territory.
3 Which is very unlike me. I usually find late third-act sex scenes gratituous. Not here. This one was necessary for my health.
4 I will say that the conflict between Abby and her Stateside BFF was the one point in the story where I got frustrated while reading. But after thinking about it some more, I decided his reaction and his stubbornness was actually very realistic and human, which is what made it even more aggravating.
5 Plus, Abby gets to (gasp!) hook up with another team hottie while she waits for Lachlan to get his shit together.
November 17, 2025
I inhaled this book. I felt it deep in my bones, nerves in my legs, butterflies in my belly, excitement in my chest and pain my in my cheeks from smiling. I laughed out loud, I cried, my lips wobbled with overwhelming emotion. I held my breath, reread sentences to draw out the suspense of the moment. Abby Offsides is messy, and real, with a genuine conflict. It is a romance but still central to Abby and her healing, and it is remarkably believable in how we make the same mistakes more than once. This had be my the throat at every page. I need to read it again already.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Ballantine for the ARC and the opportunity to read and review this title. I look forward to purchasing a hard copy for my shelf.
favorite quotes:
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Ballantine for the ARC and the opportunity to read and review this title. I look forward to purchasing a hard copy for my shelf.
favorite quotes:
“You’ve got to do the things that make you happiest, even if they’re hard.”
“You’re the perfect shape for me. You’re the perfect shape for my life, and I’m so glad you’re in it.”
Little collection of anxieties
Healing is a process. It’s not as easy as a scab closing over a wound, it’s a slow and steady realignment of things in your body.
December 27, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, Ballantine, and Anna McCallie for this ARC! All opinions are my own.
Before Christmas break, I was not expecting that I would request this novel and thought I would just wait to read it on publication day. But the title and synopsis just kept calling out to me, so when the request was approved, I knew this one would make my holiday TBR list.
As a social media coordinator for an institution, I immediately connect with any story and character that is based in the marketing and communications realm, and this book felt like the most delightful cross between Emily in Paris and Ted Lasso. There aren’t nearly enough good books about women taking a leap of faith and taking a chance on themselves to leave America for a better opportunity abroad, so whenever I find one, I become mildly obsessed with it. Abby Offsides is the perfection representation of that.
I’ll go ahead and say that the storyline and some of the characters are firmly planted in the morally grey area. Because the main character Abby could be considered as “the other woman,” I know that this book will definitely not be for everyone, no matter how the characters and storyline are presented. And while I had my doubts about how these characters would end up halfway through the novel, I was impressed how well the author handled such a tricky and delicate subject matter with such finesse and careful intention. This kind of subject matter is not one that is easy to navigate, but Anna McCallie did it with flying colors on her debut!
Abby was a very emotionally rich and relatable FMC. She certainly had her flaws, but she was also someone I could root for nearly every step of the way as she found her footing for the first time across the pond after a failed engagement. We really saw her grow into herself, take accountability when she needed to, and step into her own power both professionally and personally. Her journey felt earned, realistic, and deeply satisfying, especially as she learned to trust her instincts and more importantly, trust herself.
The romance was layered, complicated, and undeniably compelling. I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from the messiness of real emotions or try to oversimplify difficult choices. Instead, the story allowed space for growth, reflection, and consequences, which made the emotional payoff that much stronger. The banter, the slow-burn tension, and the moments of vulnerability all worked beautifully together and kept me completely invested from beginning to end.
The setting and supporting cast added so much charm and warmth to the story. From the workplace dynamics to the sense of community Abby builds abroad, everything felt vibrant and alive. McCallie’s writing struck the perfect balance between humor, heart, and introspection, making this a delightful and compelling read.
Overall, this was a standout debut that exceeded my expectations in every way. Thoughtful, romantic, and emotionally resonant, Abby Offsides is a smart, modern story about starting over, taking risks, and choosing yourself.
Before Christmas break, I was not expecting that I would request this novel and thought I would just wait to read it on publication day. But the title and synopsis just kept calling out to me, so when the request was approved, I knew this one would make my holiday TBR list.
As a social media coordinator for an institution, I immediately connect with any story and character that is based in the marketing and communications realm, and this book felt like the most delightful cross between Emily in Paris and Ted Lasso. There aren’t nearly enough good books about women taking a leap of faith and taking a chance on themselves to leave America for a better opportunity abroad, so whenever I find one, I become mildly obsessed with it. Abby Offsides is the perfection representation of that.
I’ll go ahead and say that the storyline and some of the characters are firmly planted in the morally grey area. Because the main character Abby could be considered as “the other woman,” I know that this book will definitely not be for everyone, no matter how the characters and storyline are presented. And while I had my doubts about how these characters would end up halfway through the novel, I was impressed how well the author handled such a tricky and delicate subject matter with such finesse and careful intention. This kind of subject matter is not one that is easy to navigate, but Anna McCallie did it with flying colors on her debut!
Abby was a very emotionally rich and relatable FMC. She certainly had her flaws, but she was also someone I could root for nearly every step of the way as she found her footing for the first time across the pond after a failed engagement. We really saw her grow into herself, take accountability when she needed to, and step into her own power both professionally and personally. Her journey felt earned, realistic, and deeply satisfying, especially as she learned to trust her instincts and more importantly, trust herself.
The romance was layered, complicated, and undeniably compelling. I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from the messiness of real emotions or try to oversimplify difficult choices. Instead, the story allowed space for growth, reflection, and consequences, which made the emotional payoff that much stronger. The banter, the slow-burn tension, and the moments of vulnerability all worked beautifully together and kept me completely invested from beginning to end.
The setting and supporting cast added so much charm and warmth to the story. From the workplace dynamics to the sense of community Abby builds abroad, everything felt vibrant and alive. McCallie’s writing struck the perfect balance between humor, heart, and introspection, making this a delightful and compelling read.
Overall, this was a standout debut that exceeded my expectations in every way. Thoughtful, romantic, and emotionally resonant, Abby Offsides is a smart, modern story about starting over, taking risks, and choosing yourself.
November 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! 4 stars
Abby Offsides has lots tropes I enjoy…
-Pro-Athlete
-Strangers to Lovers
-Found Family
-Workplace Romance
-slow burn
Anna McCallie’s writing style is a lot of fun. We’re in Abby’s POV the whole book which was a narration I really enjoyed. I typically prefer a Dual POV but this plot required a single POV and I wasn’t sad about it. Abby’s voice and sense of the world really came through the writing. The banter and humor were really well done. I had such a genuinely good time with the back and forths between Lachlan and Abby or Abby and her friends.
Side characters were dynamic and loveable. McAllie also cultivated a warmth and affection for the spaces and places like Liverpool, the F.C. and especially Oban/ the Highlands. Together, these things made me hope we have a series in the works. Does our sweet quiet Phil find love next? Maybe the boy-king Kieran? Or better yet Mummy Collins????
However, as much as seriously loved this book……I have a huge bone to pick with the central conflict. I did not love that
I did want a little more of Lachlan -
It speaks to McCallie writing that she lands this plane and I left this book rooting for Lachlan and Abby.
So please, tell me Lachlan has brothers and we can spend more time with hot Scotsmen up in the Highlands saying things like, “Give us the wee bairn.”
Thank you to NetGalley and Dell for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Abby Offsides has lots tropes I enjoy…
-Pro-Athlete
-Strangers to Lovers
-Found Family
-Workplace Romance
-slow burn
Anna McCallie’s writing style is a lot of fun. We’re in Abby’s POV the whole book which was a narration I really enjoyed. I typically prefer a Dual POV but this plot required a single POV and I wasn’t sad about it. Abby’s voice and sense of the world really came through the writing. The banter and humor were really well done. I had such a genuinely good time with the back and forths between Lachlan and Abby or Abby and her friends.
Side characters were dynamic and loveable. McAllie also cultivated a warmth and affection for the spaces and places like Liverpool, the F.C. and especially Oban/ the Highlands. Together, these things made me hope we have a series in the works. Does our sweet quiet Phil find love next? Maybe the boy-king Kieran? Or better yet Mummy Collins????
However, as much as seriously loved this book……I have a huge bone to pick with the central conflict. I did not love that
I did want a little more of Lachlan -
It speaks to McCallie writing that she lands this plane and I left this book rooting for Lachlan and Abby.
So please, tell me Lachlan has brothers and we can spend more time with hot Scotsmen up in the Highlands saying things like, “Give us the wee bairn.”
Thank you to NetGalley and Dell for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2025
3 stars ⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book was nice! The tension between Abby and Lachlan was so intense, and their friendship was genuinely lovely to read. I really enjoyed how their bond slowly built, from friendship, to care, to love. I might be a little biased because I love a slow burn, and this one was slowww in the best way possible.
The humor was another highlight. Abby’s inner monologue was hilarious, her jokes, her witty comments, and her way of seeing the world made the book so fun to read. I really enjoyed being inside her head.
However, there were a few things that didn’t quite work for me. I’m not a fan of miscommunication tropes, and I found it hard to believe that two best friends who share everything could avoid such important topics, especially their relationship histories. Lachlan not knowing about Abby’s past with her fiancé just didn’t make sense to me.
Another thing that bothered me was the “telling instead of showing.” We hear about their deep conversations, about their pasts, their childhoods, their personal struggles, but we don’t actually see them. Most of their on-page interactions are banter and lighter moments, which are fun, but it made their friendship feel a bit superficial from the reader’s perspective.
Overall, it was a fun read with great tension and humor, but some of the relationship choices and pacing just didn’t hit for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book was nice! The tension between Abby and Lachlan was so intense, and their friendship was genuinely lovely to read. I really enjoyed how their bond slowly built, from friendship, to care, to love. I might be a little biased because I love a slow burn, and this one was slowww in the best way possible.
The humor was another highlight. Abby’s inner monologue was hilarious, her jokes, her witty comments, and her way of seeing the world made the book so fun to read. I really enjoyed being inside her head.
However, there were a few things that didn’t quite work for me. I’m not a fan of miscommunication tropes, and I found it hard to believe that two best friends who share everything could avoid such important topics, especially their relationship histories. Lachlan not knowing about Abby’s past with her fiancé just didn’t make sense to me.
Another thing that bothered me was the “telling instead of showing.” We hear about their deep conversations, about their pasts, their childhoods, their personal struggles, but we don’t actually see them. Most of their on-page interactions are banter and lighter moments, which are fun, but it made their friendship feel a bit superficial from the reader’s perspective.
Overall, it was a fun read with great tension and humor, but some of the relationship choices and pacing just didn’t hit for me.
November 9, 2025
read if you like:
⚽️ soccer
👩❤️👨 forbidden love
💙 friends-to-lovers
summary:
Girl flees to the UK to escape her failing relationship. Girl meets boy. Boy is the star of a European soccer team, where Girl happens to work. Girl and Boy become friends. Will they be anything more? That is essentially the premise of this book.
It follows Abby McIntyre, an expat who moves to Liverpool to take a job managing the social media for Mersey Football Club. While she’s there, she meets Lachlan Ramsey, a Scottish football star who has been recently signed by the team. The two become fast friends, and when she gets kicked out of her apartment, Abby moves in with him, bringing them even closer. Despite this, she knows their relationship can’t be romantic — Lachlan is married, for starters, and her boss made it very clear that players are off limits. But can you fight fate?
I really, really wanted to love this book — but there just wasn’t enough depth or conflict. Everything plays out perfectly for Abby — she lands a job she’s wildly unqualified for, she hits it off with the star player her first day on the job, and she’s quickly able to leave behind her drama from home while she thrives in Liverpool. Even when she’s evicted — a real conflict — Lachlan immediately moves her into his palatial apartment. While she’s a vulnerable and honest character, she hardly faces any real challenges. Lachlan, on the other hand, is hard to understand — while married he immediately forms this intense, platonic friendship with Abby, with essentially zero conflict or strife. He seems privileged, perfect and yet pretty unlikeable.
The story drags on without much fanfare; and wraps up with an all-too-perfect ending you can see coming from a mile away. Boring? Hardly, but captivating? Not so much.
If you’re looking for fluff and love soccer, you might like this one! Thanks to Ballantine and NetGalley for the advanced copy!
⚽️ soccer
👩❤️👨 forbidden love
💙 friends-to-lovers
summary:
Girl flees to the UK to escape her failing relationship. Girl meets boy. Boy is the star of a European soccer team, where Girl happens to work. Girl and Boy become friends. Will they be anything more? That is essentially the premise of this book.
It follows Abby McIntyre, an expat who moves to Liverpool to take a job managing the social media for Mersey Football Club. While she’s there, she meets Lachlan Ramsey, a Scottish football star who has been recently signed by the team. The two become fast friends, and when she gets kicked out of her apartment, Abby moves in with him, bringing them even closer. Despite this, she knows their relationship can’t be romantic — Lachlan is married, for starters, and her boss made it very clear that players are off limits. But can you fight fate?
I really, really wanted to love this book — but there just wasn’t enough depth or conflict. Everything plays out perfectly for Abby — she lands a job she’s wildly unqualified for, she hits it off with the star player her first day on the job, and she’s quickly able to leave behind her drama from home while she thrives in Liverpool. Even when she’s evicted — a real conflict — Lachlan immediately moves her into his palatial apartment. While she’s a vulnerable and honest character, she hardly faces any real challenges. Lachlan, on the other hand, is hard to understand — while married he immediately forms this intense, platonic friendship with Abby, with essentially zero conflict or strife. He seems privileged, perfect and yet pretty unlikeable.
The story drags on without much fanfare; and wraps up with an all-too-perfect ending you can see coming from a mile away. Boring? Hardly, but captivating? Not so much.
If you’re looking for fluff and love soccer, you might like this one! Thanks to Ballantine and NetGalley for the advanced copy!
October 29, 2025
���💔 ABBY OFFSIDES by Anna McCallie 💔⚽
A slow-burn, laugh-out-loud debut about fresh starts, forbidden chemistry, and finding yourself halfway across the world.
After walking away from her cheating fiancé (and making some truly iconic breakup decisions - ✂️ hello, bangs! ✈️ goodbye, America!), Abby McIntyre impulsively hops a one-way flight to Liverpool. She lands a job as a content creator for the Mersey Football Club and straight into the orbit of Lachlan Ramsay, the charming, broody, very married Scottish midfielder who makes resisting temptation feel like a full-time job.
When Abby’s housing falls through, Lachlan offers her his guest room, and suddenly, late-night takeout turns into quiet glances, inside jokes, and enough tension to set the penthouse on fire. Their connection is magnetic, funny, tender, and absolutely forbidden. Because when your career (and his reputation) depend on keeping your distance, falling for each other is the biggest offside of all.
💫 Expect:
💞 Friends-to-lovers slow burn (the kind that hurts)
🔥 Forbidden tension with emotional depth
⚽ Broody Scottish footballer x chaotic American sweetheart
🤣 Smart banter + laugh-out-loud moments
💔 Angst, self-discovery, and second chances
This book wrecked me in the best way. The chemistry is sizzling, the banter crackles, and the emotional payoff is so worth the wait. Abby’s journey from heartbroken to fearless is full of humor, warmth, and a little chaos, the perfect reminder that sometimes, love finds you right when you’re rebuilding from the ground up.
✨ “It wasn’t love at first sight. It was love at every sight after.” ✨
#AbbyOffsides #AnnaMcCallie #NetGalley #RomanceReaders #SlowBurnRomance #FriendsToLovers #ForbiddenRomance #SportsRomance #Bookstagram #ContemporaryRomance #RomComReads #BookishLove #DebutAuthor #BookReview #BanterAndBurn #KickOffYourHeart #DellPublishing
A slow-burn, laugh-out-loud debut about fresh starts, forbidden chemistry, and finding yourself halfway across the world.
After walking away from her cheating fiancé (and making some truly iconic breakup decisions - ✂️ hello, bangs! ✈️ goodbye, America!), Abby McIntyre impulsively hops a one-way flight to Liverpool. She lands a job as a content creator for the Mersey Football Club and straight into the orbit of Lachlan Ramsay, the charming, broody, very married Scottish midfielder who makes resisting temptation feel like a full-time job.
When Abby’s housing falls through, Lachlan offers her his guest room, and suddenly, late-night takeout turns into quiet glances, inside jokes, and enough tension to set the penthouse on fire. Their connection is magnetic, funny, tender, and absolutely forbidden. Because when your career (and his reputation) depend on keeping your distance, falling for each other is the biggest offside of all.
💫 Expect:
💞 Friends-to-lovers slow burn (the kind that hurts)
🔥 Forbidden tension with emotional depth
⚽ Broody Scottish footballer x chaotic American sweetheart
🤣 Smart banter + laugh-out-loud moments
💔 Angst, self-discovery, and second chances
This book wrecked me in the best way. The chemistry is sizzling, the banter crackles, and the emotional payoff is so worth the wait. Abby’s journey from heartbroken to fearless is full of humor, warmth, and a little chaos, the perfect reminder that sometimes, love finds you right when you’re rebuilding from the ground up.
✨ “It wasn’t love at first sight. It was love at every sight after.” ✨
#AbbyOffsides #AnnaMcCallie #NetGalley #RomanceReaders #SlowBurnRomance #FriendsToLovers #ForbiddenRomance #SportsRomance #Bookstagram #ContemporaryRomance #RomComReads #BookishLove #DebutAuthor #BookReview #BanterAndBurn #KickOffYourHeart #DellPublishing
November 1, 2025
Big thanks to Thousand Voices and Dell Romance for the ARC of this book! This was a fantastic debut novel and I became immersed in the story almost immediately. I am not really a football/soccer fan but was a huge fan or Ted Lasso and I think this would book will be universally likeable to sports fans and not sports fans. The book follows Abby, an American who moves to the UK for a job at a football club as a social media manager, She moves on the heels of her long term relationship spectacularly ending and is looking to start over and get away from real life. What she doesn't expect is to fall in love with the club, the players, the job and the UK as a whole. She f0rms an unlikely friendship with a player right when she gets there and they develop a deep bond despite the fact that he is married. Lachlan is Scottish, charming and all around likeable. He has just moved back to the team after spending many years playing in Spain. His wife didn't relocate with him, but Abby finds herself wondering what the status of their relationship is. She know she should ask, but finds herself falling into an easy friendship with him despite the fact that he doesn't share that huge part of his life with her. When her housing falls through, she even ends up moving into his spare room in his massive penthouse. They both know they are skirting the line of an appropriate relationship due the fact that they are married. The push and pull of their relationship and the sexual tension made for a fantastic read. This one is a slow burn for sure, but I liked how the topic was handled over all by the author. This book is a romance, but it is also a book about deciding between right and wrong, finding yourself and healing as well. It was five stars for sure and I will be looking for more by this author in the future!
November 25, 2025
*I received an advanced copy through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
The premise of this book hooked me right away: Abby leaves Boston and her job as social media manager for the Red Sox after discovering her longtime fiancé cheated on her. She escapes to the UK and ends up running social media for a British football club, where she meets a very charming Scottish player.
I loved the banter between Abby and the love interest; their chemistry is fun and easy. But I did feel their friendship and the intimacy that comes with it developed way too fast. Both of them were coming out of serious relationship issues, yet somehow they go from strangers to deeply connected without actually learning much of substance about each other. I wanted more slow-burn friendship and more emotional groundwork.
I also would have liked more “side quests.” She is in a whole new country, but most of the scenes outside her apartment happen with the football team. A little more exploration, travel, culture, or even everyday moments would have added depth.
What I did appreciate was how Abby’s heartbreak wasn’t just a background detail. You really feel how she is struggling and doing her best to heal, and the book lets that grief breathe instead of rushing past it.
Overall, it is an easy, enjoyable read with some genuinely cute moments. I would definitely recommend it if you are in the mood for something light with solid banter and a sweet romance.
The premise of this book hooked me right away: Abby leaves Boston and her job as social media manager for the Red Sox after discovering her longtime fiancé cheated on her. She escapes to the UK and ends up running social media for a British football club, where she meets a very charming Scottish player.
I loved the banter between Abby and the love interest; their chemistry is fun and easy. But I did feel their friendship and the intimacy that comes with it developed way too fast. Both of them were coming out of serious relationship issues, yet somehow they go from strangers to deeply connected without actually learning much of substance about each other. I wanted more slow-burn friendship and more emotional groundwork.
I also would have liked more “side quests.” She is in a whole new country, but most of the scenes outside her apartment happen with the football team. A little more exploration, travel, culture, or even everyday moments would have added depth.
What I did appreciate was how Abby’s heartbreak wasn’t just a background detail. You really feel how she is struggling and doing her best to heal, and the book lets that grief breathe instead of rushing past it.
Overall, it is an easy, enjoyable read with some genuinely cute moments. I would definitely recommend it if you are in the mood for something light with solid banter and a sweet romance.
October 18, 2025
After catching her fiancé cheating on her, Abby quits her job working for the Red Sox in search of a fresh start working for a Premier League team in Liverpool. She quickly dives in to the fascinating world of football (soccer to us Americans) and all the interesting characters that come with it. She finds herself growing closer to one of the star players for Mersey F.C., Lachlan, but he comes with his own baggage. Can she balance her new job and budding friendships on the team? Or will she crack under the pressure and retreat home to Boston?
This book was such a fun, well written emotional rollercoaster! Abby's journey across the pond to find herself after calling off her wedding had a perfect mix of messy characters (but also lots of growth), comedic moments, found family, and I truly could not put this one down, This slow burn was perfectly paced and I loved that all of the issues these characters had were actually dealt with and not just ignored for the sake of a happy ending. In a market with very few soccer romances, this one definitely stands out as one of my favorites and I can tell I will be searching for one like it for a while!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced review copy!
This book was such a fun, well written emotional rollercoaster! Abby's journey across the pond to find herself after calling off her wedding had a perfect mix of messy characters (but also lots of growth), comedic moments, found family, and I truly could not put this one down, This slow burn was perfectly paced and I loved that all of the issues these characters had were actually dealt with and not just ignored for the sake of a happy ending. In a market with very few soccer romances, this one definitely stands out as one of my favorites and I can tell I will be searching for one like it for a while!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced review copy!
November 23, 2025
I think it’s clear by the description of this book, I’ll warn anyway: a large majority of this book is an emotional affair between Abby and Lachlan. They were called out on it by different people, they were told after that it was an emotional affair, and more. I think it helped make this book a slow burn. I won’t say this took away from the book because I went in expecting it. Since I expected it, I wish they had deeper conversations at least.
What did sort of gross me out was the last 30%. Lachlan’s actions were just not it. Very realistic, but didn’t help me buy into their relationship when they finally got together. Also, his bff Matt? I’m all for calling out people having affairs. But the way he did it made me uncomfortable. Going to Abby’s boss, when there’s such a power imbalance between Abby and Lachlan (and Matt) bothered me because Lachlan (the married player) would face zero consequences. Also, there is no chance the tabloids wouldn’t have gotten pictures of Lachlan and Abby hanging out!! Lastly, I’m American and I have had kettles my entire life.
This was far from perfect and not for everyone, but I would be interested to see the author writers next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
What did sort of gross me out was the last 30%. Lachlan’s actions were just not it. Very realistic, but didn’t help me buy into their relationship when they finally got together. Also, his bff Matt? I’m all for calling out people having affairs. But the way he did it made me uncomfortable. Going to Abby’s boss, when there’s such a power imbalance between Abby and Lachlan (and Matt) bothered me because Lachlan (the married player) would face zero consequences. Also, there is no chance the tabloids wouldn’t have gotten pictures of Lachlan and Abby hanging out!! Lastly, I’m American and I have had kettles my entire life.
This was far from perfect and not for everyone, but I would be interested to see the author writers next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2025
This is my first ARC review, so forgive me if I do it wrong…
Anyone who has watched Ted Lasso will immediately recognize that this premise could’ve been lifted directly from the show. As a Ted Lasso fan, those are big shoes to fill so I was concerned this would be a sad knock off riding the coattails of the show’s success.
I really liked this book. 100% recommend. The characters are fun and lively and I will always root for an imperfect, unglamorous thirty-something MFC. Abby is just so likeable. I love her banter with Lachlan and the rest of the Mersey F.C. team but also her internal monologue where she is just as witty but more introspective about her own shortcomings. Abby’s friends back in Boston and in Liverpool readily provide unconditional love and hard truths.
I love a feel good romance but the thing I liked most about it is that the story and characters are relatable. When everything goes tits up, there’s no sweeping grand gesture and reconciliation 5 business days later. The characters put in time and effort to work on themselves and their issues (everyone goes to therapy???) to *earn* their HEA. At the end, I had all the warm fuzzies I got from watching Ted Lasso plus the happy afterglow of an excellent romance novel.
Anyone who has watched Ted Lasso will immediately recognize that this premise could’ve been lifted directly from the show. As a Ted Lasso fan, those are big shoes to fill so I was concerned this would be a sad knock off riding the coattails of the show’s success.
I really liked this book. 100% recommend. The characters are fun and lively and I will always root for an imperfect, unglamorous thirty-something MFC. Abby is just so likeable. I love her banter with Lachlan and the rest of the Mersey F.C. team but also her internal monologue where she is just as witty but more introspective about her own shortcomings. Abby’s friends back in Boston and in Liverpool readily provide unconditional love and hard truths.
I love a feel good romance but the thing I liked most about it is that the story and characters are relatable. When everything goes tits up, there’s no sweeping grand gesture and reconciliation 5 business days later. The characters put in time and effort to work on themselves and their issues (everyone goes to therapy???) to *earn* their HEA. At the end, I had all the warm fuzzies I got from watching Ted Lasso plus the happy afterglow of an excellent romance novel.
December 23, 2025
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Dell for an early e-Arc copy of Abby Offsides by Anna McCallie
I wanted to like this more than I actually did. In theory the premise of the story is right up my alley, unfortunately the execution felt flat.
Abbey is a likeable FMC, I won’t lie there. She’s funny, witty and has been through a lot and it’s just trying to stay afloat. My issue is that she’s doing to someone exactly what was done to her. She’s having a whole emotional affair with Lachlan, all the while, knowing he was married.
I did see that the blurb had mentioned he was married but I figured they wouldn’t get emotionally involved with each other until afterwards.
I did like the friendship and banter between Abby and Lachlan, I just wish that they would be distant friends while he was married and that things had only developed after his separation, and I wished they had conversations about the situation sooner. If it wasn’t for this, I honestly think I would’ve really enjoyed the story and the development between the characters since they had some good banter and time to develop as characters. Honestly they deserve each other.
Overall the story was okay, definitely not for me personally but the book wasn’t terribly written or had bad pacing issues.
I wanted to like this more than I actually did. In theory the premise of the story is right up my alley, unfortunately the execution felt flat.
Abbey is a likeable FMC, I won’t lie there. She’s funny, witty and has been through a lot and it’s just trying to stay afloat. My issue is that she’s doing to someone exactly what was done to her. She’s having a whole emotional affair with Lachlan, all the while, knowing he was married.
I did see that the blurb had mentioned he was married but I figured they wouldn’t get emotionally involved with each other until afterwards.
I did like the friendship and banter between Abby and Lachlan, I just wish that they would be distant friends while he was married and that things had only developed after his separation, and I wished they had conversations about the situation sooner. If it wasn’t for this, I honestly think I would’ve really enjoyed the story and the development between the characters since they had some good banter and time to develop as characters. Honestly they deserve each other.
Overall the story was okay, definitely not for me personally but the book wasn’t terribly written or had bad pacing issues.
November 5, 2025
An absolutely smashing book! The banter between Abby, an American “yank” who knows nothing about Soccer and Lachlan, a Scottish football legend has off the charts chemistry. Abby comes to Liverpool to start over after her fiancé cheats on her. She has an interview at Mersey Football Club and almost bombs the interview. While leaving she runs into Lachlan Ramsay. They immediately just click. They become fast friends, more like best friends but Lachlan is married. They never cross a line physically however emotionally it is not good. It all comes to a head on New Year’s. This book was getting so good, I was loving the friendship and the banter then it gets ugly throwing the book in a totally heartbreaking direction. Even so I thoroughly enjoyed it and know you will too. The team is spectacular and the camaraderie is so good. The lads will keep you in stitches.
This Arc is a Ballantine Random House Publishing Group title from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
Abby Offsides: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/boo...
Pub Date: Jun 23 2026
Archive Date: Aug 23 2026
This Arc is a Ballantine Random House Publishing Group title from NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.
Abby Offsides: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/boo...
Pub Date: Jun 23 2026
Archive Date: Aug 23 2026
December 27, 2025
This book is such a strong example of a romantic comedy done right: funny without trying too hard and emotionally grounded.
What stood out to me immediately was the chemistry between Abby and Lachlan. It was never just physical attraction—their banter, humor, and emotional connection is there from the start.
One thing I really appreciated was how the author handled Abby’s position in the story. Abby could easily be labeled as “the other woman” (Lachlan is still married when they meet), which is a role that often leads to automatic dislike for many. But the author did an excellent job of adding nuance to the situation. The story allowed space for moral complexity and growth. It was impossible to not root for Abby. Her personal growth arc was incredibly satisfying and added real depth to the romance.
Also, the football (soccer) setting in Liverpool was so fun and gives the reader access to so many fun and interesting characters.
Overall, this book balances humor, emotional messiness, and romance perfectly. It’s proof that the best love stories aren’t always neat or perfect.
**Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review***
What stood out to me immediately was the chemistry between Abby and Lachlan. It was never just physical attraction—their banter, humor, and emotional connection is there from the start.
One thing I really appreciated was how the author handled Abby’s position in the story. Abby could easily be labeled as “the other woman” (Lachlan is still married when they meet), which is a role that often leads to automatic dislike for many. But the author did an excellent job of adding nuance to the situation. The story allowed space for moral complexity and growth. It was impossible to not root for Abby. Her personal growth arc was incredibly satisfying and added real depth to the romance.
Also, the football (soccer) setting in Liverpool was so fun and gives the reader access to so many fun and interesting characters.
Overall, this book balances humor, emotional messiness, and romance perfectly. It’s proof that the best love stories aren’t always neat or perfect.
**Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review***
October 22, 2025
After dealing with a cheating fiancé, Abby decides it’s time for a major change. She uproots her life and moves to England, taking a new job running social media for a football team - a sport she knows nothing about. As she learns the ropes and nurses a broken heart, things get complicated when she forms an unexpected connection with Lachlan, the team’s superstar player. He’s famously married… but his wife is nowhere to be seen. As the year unfolds, Abby must decide what she really wants from her new life abroad.
This story was refreshing and different, it doesn’t follow the usual rom-com formula, and I loved that. The pacing and structure give Abby room to grow, and watching that growth makes her story so satisfying. We know Abby and Lachlan are endgame, but it’s not just about the romance - it’s about how they evolve together. The camaraderie and relationships throughout the book feel authentic and organic, never forced.
I highly recommend this one to fans of Ted Lasso, sports rom-coms, and anyone who loves a good American-across-the-pond romance.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
This story was refreshing and different, it doesn’t follow the usual rom-com formula, and I loved that. The pacing and structure give Abby room to grow, and watching that growth makes her story so satisfying. We know Abby and Lachlan are endgame, but it’s not just about the romance - it’s about how they evolve together. The camaraderie and relationships throughout the book feel authentic and organic, never forced.
I highly recommend this one to fans of Ted Lasso, sports rom-coms, and anyone who loves a good American-across-the-pond romance.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
November 24, 2025
4.5/5
Thank you to Ballantine/Dell for the advance reader copy of Abby Offsides by Anna McCallie.
A broken engagement leads Abby to apply to a job with a football club in Liverpool, despite the fact that Abby doesn’t know anything about football. She’s able to secure the job and soon after meets the players, which includes Lachlan Ramsay, a star who recently transferred to the team.
I absolutely loved Abby. I definitely felt the electricity between Abby and Lachlan and was drawn in to see how their relationship was going to progress given Lachlan’s marriage. What really got me immersed in this book though was Abby and her journey through the course of this story. Readers checking out this book should check the content warnings. This book has flawed characters and the author explores the flaws and complexities of Abby and Lachlan’s characters and their growing relationship with each other. I do think this book is an amazing debut for Anna McCallie and am looking forward to checking out future books.
Thank you to Ballantine/Dell for the advance reader copy of Abby Offsides by Anna McCallie.
A broken engagement leads Abby to apply to a job with a football club in Liverpool, despite the fact that Abby doesn’t know anything about football. She’s able to secure the job and soon after meets the players, which includes Lachlan Ramsay, a star who recently transferred to the team.
I absolutely loved Abby. I definitely felt the electricity between Abby and Lachlan and was drawn in to see how their relationship was going to progress given Lachlan’s marriage. What really got me immersed in this book though was Abby and her journey through the course of this story. Readers checking out this book should check the content warnings. This book has flawed characters and the author explores the flaws and complexities of Abby and Lachlan’s characters and their growing relationship with each other. I do think this book is an amazing debut for Anna McCallie and am looking forward to checking out future books.
December 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine/Dell for an ARC of this book!
Not only did I fall in love with both main characters in this book, I also fell in love with a whole soccer (I mean, football..) team! This book was SO CUTE, I smiled the whole time.
After a messy break up, Abby decides she needs a change and moves from Boston to Liverpool and secures a job doing social media for the Mersey Football team. She meets Lachlan Ramsey, the new star midfielder, and the two become fast friends since they’re both new to town. Their banter?! Hilarious. I laughed out loud multiple times! Their romance is a slowwww burn but sooo good.
This book was more than just a cute rom-com. I also loved the growth and maturity both Lachlan and Abby made throughout the book- the character development was great. Without giving anything away, their lack of communication about difficult matters stressed me out a bit and went on a little long but I love the self-awareness that came out of it.
If you love sports romance, definitely put this one on your list for 2026!!
Not only did I fall in love with both main characters in this book, I also fell in love with a whole soccer (I mean, football..) team! This book was SO CUTE, I smiled the whole time.
After a messy break up, Abby decides she needs a change and moves from Boston to Liverpool and secures a job doing social media for the Mersey Football team. She meets Lachlan Ramsey, the new star midfielder, and the two become fast friends since they’re both new to town. Their banter?! Hilarious. I laughed out loud multiple times! Their romance is a slowwww burn but sooo good.
This book was more than just a cute rom-com. I also loved the growth and maturity both Lachlan and Abby made throughout the book- the character development was great. Without giving anything away, their lack of communication about difficult matters stressed me out a bit and went on a little long but I love the self-awareness that came out of it.
If you love sports romance, definitely put this one on your list for 2026!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When Abby’s fiancé breaks off their engagement, she impulsively quits her job in Boston, flees to England and applies for a position with a soccer club, a sport she knows nothing about. Desperate not to return to Boston where her brothers are all more accomplished then she is and her ex is starting over with the woman he cheated on her with, she throws herself into learning the position and quickly finds herself immersed not only with the club but also with the players, particularly Lachlan Ramsay, the married-but-separated star player who has just returned to play for his original team after a stint in Spain.
I enjoyed this book. There’s a lot of pining and I do wish we got more of the actual romance. They become friends very quickly to the point where he gives he keys to his apartment which wasn’t entirely believable to me given where they were in their respective lives. Overall though, it was a cute sports romance and it was fun to read about a sport that we don’t get a lot of in the U.S.
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine/Dell for the ARC.
I enjoyed this book. There’s a lot of pining and I do wish we got more of the actual romance. They become friends very quickly to the point where he gives he keys to his apartment which wasn’t entirely believable to me given where they were in their respective lives. Overall though, it was a cute sports romance and it was fun to read about a sport that we don’t get a lot of in the U.S.
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine/Dell for the ARC.
October 27, 2025
Now this book was CUTE! I read it in 2 days and just could not put it down. This book is about our main character Abby starting fresh - which for her is moving from Boston to Liverpool. She then interviews for a media job for a soccer/football team. This is where she meets the other big character in this book, who turns into the love interest. This book is a slooooow burn to the max, but worth the wait.
I really enjoyed the banter in this book - it was quick and witty, which are two things I love. At times, it maybe went a little too far (to the point of cringy), but it never made me want to put the book down. Another part of this book I liked was that it took place over months - it wasn’t just a romance that happened in 3 weeks. Some parts still happened “quick”, but in general it gave a more “this could actually happen in real life” vibe.
I will 100% be reading more from Anna McCallie in the future! It was awesome getting this book released early from NetGalley.
I really enjoyed the banter in this book - it was quick and witty, which are two things I love. At times, it maybe went a little too far (to the point of cringy), but it never made me want to put the book down. Another part of this book I liked was that it took place over months - it wasn’t just a romance that happened in 3 weeks. Some parts still happened “quick”, but in general it gave a more “this could actually happen in real life” vibe.
I will 100% be reading more from Anna McCallie in the future! It was awesome getting this book released early from NetGalley.
November 1, 2025
Well, this was such a delight. This is one of those books that as soon as you get it, you HAVE to read it because the story sounds so great. It's the type of book where you root for the main character (Abby) from the first pages until the very end. And it's the kind of book that the journey is just so, so good. Abby moves to Liverpool to take a job with the Mersey football club after lots of life changes. There she finds a friendship with one of the players, Lachlan Ramsey. Given this is a romance, you can probably infer that there's more to this story. The way their relationship (including the friendship part) is just so, so wonderful. Also, great is how Abby finds connection with the club. I recognize this review is just me saying a bunch of different ways what a joy of a read this is, but just trust me - When this comes out in June 2026, it's a read you'll want to check out! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the early look at this release!
October 30, 2025
𝐀𝐛𝐛𝐲 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐞 𝐌𝐜𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐞 ♡
“𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒊𝒇 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆?”
i finished this one and idk what to do with my life now😩 it was INSANELY good!!! i'm so OBSESSED with Abby and Lachlan♥️ the friends to lovers trope is EVERYTHING in this one! the banter and the tension were *chef kiss*!!! (the truth or dare and the club dancing scenes almost killed me istg😮💨) and listen, football is my absolute favorite sport, so you bet i was happy AF the entire time reading this. the club and the players stole my heart🫂 anyway, i was giddy and kicking my feet the entire book and i’m beyond grateful i got to read this one early🥺 i wanna experience it for the first time again😭🤣 i didn’t even mind the slow burn!! and for me to say that?! ohmy🙌🏻
𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔: 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆, 𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒉 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕, 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒚 𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓, 𝒔𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏
𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 23𝐫𝐝, 2026
“𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒊𝒇 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆?”
i finished this one and idk what to do with my life now😩 it was INSANELY good!!! i'm so OBSESSED with Abby and Lachlan♥️ the friends to lovers trope is EVERYTHING in this one! the banter and the tension were *chef kiss*!!! (the truth or dare and the club dancing scenes almost killed me istg😮💨) and listen, football is my absolute favorite sport, so you bet i was happy AF the entire time reading this. the club and the players stole my heart🫂 anyway, i was giddy and kicking my feet the entire book and i’m beyond grateful i got to read this one early🥺 i wanna experience it for the first time again😭🤣 i didn’t even mind the slow burn!! and for me to say that?! ohmy🙌🏻
𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔: 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆, 𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒉 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕, 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒚 𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓, 𝒔𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏
𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 23𝐫𝐝, 2026
November 8, 2025
This book blended two of my favorite things: professional sports romance and Scottish characters.
Abby is fresh out of an engagement when she takes off to England and lands a job as a social media manager of a popular soccer (sorry football) club. The general outline of the story is predictable: swears she won’t fall in love with one of the rich, hot athletes and totally does.
But where this story really shines is the relationships she has outside of her love interest. She has a complex family relationship, several close friends that offer support in different ways. And in all of that she sometimes feels deeply lonely and sad. You get a deep look at all of her emotional turmoil, not just the butterflies and sexual tension-though there’s plenty of that, too.
It’s a romance story, yes, but also a bit of a comeback story too. Definitely a slow burn, but deeply satisfying.
Abby is fresh out of an engagement when she takes off to England and lands a job as a social media manager of a popular soccer (sorry football) club. The general outline of the story is predictable: swears she won’t fall in love with one of the rich, hot athletes and totally does.
But where this story really shines is the relationships she has outside of her love interest. She has a complex family relationship, several close friends that offer support in different ways. And in all of that she sometimes feels deeply lonely and sad. You get a deep look at all of her emotional turmoil, not just the butterflies and sexual tension-though there’s plenty of that, too.
It’s a romance story, yes, but also a bit of a comeback story too. Definitely a slow burn, but deeply satisfying.
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