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Abby Offsides
Win a free print copy of this book!
6 days and 21:14:43
50 copies available
U.S. only
In 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, ebook
First published June 23, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 578 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:
medium blog
January 6, 2026
Fresh from a broken engagement, FMC Abby moves across the Atlantic Ocean to the UK to run from her heartbreak, and start work for the Mercy Football Club. Abby is sarcastic and her self deprecating humor lends for some really funny banter between her and her new coworkers and friends. Before she even gets the job she runs into Scottish player Lachlan. Kinda wishing I listened to this one to hear his accent, I bet it’s swoony. Abby and Lachlan have instant chemistry, but once Abby realizes he’s married, into the friend zone she put him. Having been cheated on by her ex, Abby won’t be the other woman, but emotionally lines are definitely crossed. This will definitely be a slippery slope for those who don’t want OW/OM drama at all, but if you can with no issue I definitely would jump in. I liked the humanness the author was able to flesh out even from the smallest character. I definitely felt everyone’s sides to how things rolled out. Abby is our only narrator but honestly I didn’t need Lachlans. Though he and Abby never brought up the elephant in the room, once it comes to a head the resolution is so satisfying. I had that stupid, dopey grin one gets when the HEA hits hard. This is authors debut and wow. She’s definitely one I’ll follow going forward.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my review.
June 25, 2026
From the moment this debut was announced via @thousandvoices, it immediately catapulted to the top of my TBR (I mean look at this cover alone 😍). But it turns out neither the cover, nor the synopsis, nor the glowing reviews did it justice.
What I love most about this contemporary fiction with a strong side of romance, is the incredible journey our heroine takes— from the emotional to the romantic, and of course the gigantic leap of faith across the pond to a whole new sport and culture.
Her character growth arc was as wholly relatable as it was inspirational. She is a character you cannot help but root for all along the way. But just as Abby is struggling to find her way, so is Lachlan in a very different but equally profound way. What makes this story so refreshing is the mature way in which they both work towards a future they can be proud of even with missteps and communication mishaps along the way. By the end, as the reader finds themselves rooting for the Mersey Football Club to win it all, there is an equal emotional investment in the outcome of these two friends turned more.
“Life is messy. It’s imperfect and it’s hard and you can make plans but they’re going to be derailed.”
In many ways, this quote summarizes what lies at the center of this story. It’s the messiness of life; the heartbreak, the mistakes, the tears, the laughter, the friends we meet along the way, the people we let go of. And this beautiful book shows us just what Abby comes to realize— that “life is a game, and it is beautiful.”
Read if you like:
▪️genre mashups
▪️sports romance
▪️journeys of self-discovery
▪️forbidden love
▪️fútbol
▪️Ted Lasso x Kulti
Thank you Thousand Voices and PRH for the gifted copies.
What I love most about this contemporary fiction with a strong side of romance, is the incredible journey our heroine takes— from the emotional to the romantic, and of course the gigantic leap of faith across the pond to a whole new sport and culture.
Her character growth arc was as wholly relatable as it was inspirational. She is a character you cannot help but root for all along the way. But just as Abby is struggling to find her way, so is Lachlan in a very different but equally profound way. What makes this story so refreshing is the mature way in which they both work towards a future they can be proud of even with missteps and communication mishaps along the way. By the end, as the reader finds themselves rooting for the Mersey Football Club to win it all, there is an equal emotional investment in the outcome of these two friends turned more.
“Life is messy. It’s imperfect and it’s hard and you can make plans but they’re going to be derailed.”
In many ways, this quote summarizes what lies at the center of this story. It’s the messiness of life; the heartbreak, the mistakes, the tears, the laughter, the friends we meet along the way, the people we let go of. And this beautiful book shows us just what Abby comes to realize— that “life is a game, and it is beautiful.”
Read if you like:
▪️genre mashups
▪️sports romance
▪️journeys of self-discovery
▪️forbidden love
▪️fútbol
▪️Ted Lasso x Kulti
Thank you Thousand Voices and PRH for the gifted copies.
July 1, 2026
Imma be so real with y’all, I didn’t gaf about the fact that this man was married at all. This book got me out of the worst reading slump of my life. Ted Lasso if it was a 2000s messy CW show.
May 28, 2026
3/5 Stars
This was a nice debut by Anna McCallie that’s left me so conflicted. It was insanely well written. The chemistry between Abby and Lachlan was off the charts. I also loved the camaraderie among the entire team. It gave Ted Lasso vibes in the best way. I loved all the characters and the humor was laugh out loud funny.
I just wish that the Abby and Lachlan’s relationship didn’t center around infidelity. If not, this would’ve easily been a 5 star read for me. That was super disappointing and frustrating. Like why couldn’t they have a conversation about Lachlan’s marriage?! Who is telling their married friend about their sex dreams?! Why would she be the other woman when the whole plot is centered around the fact that she left a long term relationship where she was cheated on?! It made no sense and I was legitimately angry. And his poor wife! Made out to be the villain when she clearly wasn’t. The misogyny there was upsetting. The ending was partially redemptive, but they only ended up taking like 2ish months to “heal” before diving back into a relationship. That felt so disingenuous.
Ugh. I’m genuinely so bummed because I really do think this author has so much potential. But in good faith, I just can’t rate this one any higher. I would definitely check out future books by McCallie because I truly did enjoy the writing!
Biggest thanks to Netgalley and Ballantine | Dell for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review! ❤️
This was a nice debut by Anna McCallie that’s left me so conflicted. It was insanely well written. The chemistry between Abby and Lachlan was off the charts. I also loved the camaraderie among the entire team. It gave Ted Lasso vibes in the best way. I loved all the characters and the humor was laugh out loud funny.
I just wish that the Abby and Lachlan’s relationship didn’t center around infidelity. If not, this would’ve easily been a 5 star read for me. That was super disappointing and frustrating. Like why couldn’t they have a conversation about Lachlan’s marriage?! Who is telling their married friend about their sex dreams?! Why would she be the other woman when the whole plot is centered around the fact that she left a long term relationship where she was cheated on?! It made no sense and I was legitimately angry. And his poor wife! Made out to be the villain when she clearly wasn’t. The misogyny there was upsetting. The ending was partially redemptive, but they only ended up taking like 2ish months to “heal” before diving back into a relationship. That felt so disingenuous.
Ugh. I’m genuinely so bummed because I really do think this author has so much potential. But in good faith, I just can’t rate this one any higher. I would definitely check out future books by McCallie because I truly did enjoy the writing!
Biggest thanks to Netgalley and Ballantine | Dell for providing this eARC in exchange for an honest review! ❤️
June 28, 2026
oh i am so obsessed with this book!! before i get into the review, this is my warning that this book contains A LOT of emotional cheating so if that is not your jam be warned!! that’s why i can’t in good conscious give this 5 stars but just know i want to so bad!!!
but anyways, this was SO good. i have never read tension like this before i was literally sweating screaming biting my fist 🙂↕️ like i cannot stress the tension enough. AND THE BANTER!! i was grinning like a damn fool, laughing out loud at so many moments but also such a lovely story of self discovery and life changes and going after what you deserve. just all around so well done considering the situation these two are in and it truly didn’t feel icky to me at any point, i was just stressed tf out!!
but anyways, this was SO good. i have never read tension like this before i was literally sweating screaming biting my fist 🙂↕️ like i cannot stress the tension enough. AND THE BANTER!! i was grinning like a damn fool, laughing out loud at so many moments but also such a lovely story of self discovery and life changes and going after what you deserve. just all around so well done considering the situation these two are in and it truly didn’t feel icky to me at any point, i was just stressed tf out!!
July 6, 2026
3 ⭐
Післяфутбольна ейфорія покинула мене, і прийшло усвідомлення, який же чгг свиня.
Катастрофічно не вистачило розділів від нього. Хотілося б побачити деякі речі через його призму. Боягузлива поведінка і перекидання відповідальності на гг - не додали йому балів аж ніяк.
Попри все, історія написана досить цікаво: гострі жарти й живі діалоги. І все це підкріплено футбольною атмосферою Англії. Фанатам Ліверпуля ця книжка однозначно сподобається більше за інших 😅 Відсилку до Клоппа я зацінила на 100%.
YNWA 😎
Післяфутбольна ейфорія покинула мене, і прийшло усвідомлення, який же чгг свиня.
Катастрофічно не вистачило розділів від нього. Хотілося б побачити деякі речі через його призму. Боягузлива поведінка і перекидання відповідальності на гг - не додали йому балів аж ніяк.
Попри все, історія написана досить цікаво: гострі жарти й живі діалоги. І все це підкріплено футбольною атмосферою Англії. Фанатам Ліверпуля ця книжка однозначно сподобається більше за інших 😅 Відсилку до Клоппа я зацінила на 100%.
YNWA 😎
June 23, 2026
wtf, what the actual fuck
jail, straight jail to anyone who gives it a rating more than one star.
jail, straight jail to anyone who gives it a rating more than one star.
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.
February 21, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine/Dell for the ARC!
Sports romance? Absolutely count me in. As a longtime fan of rom-coms, this novel delivered everything I hoped for and more. The realness of emotions after a complicated breakup and overseas move was well displayed throughout the book. The slow burn tension was on point. All while also highlighting Abby’s friendships and chosen family. The banter is sharp, playful, and completely irresistible. This is a standout debut from Anna McCallie, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
Sports romance? Absolutely count me in. As a longtime fan of rom-coms, this novel delivered everything I hoped for and more. The realness of emotions after a complicated breakup and overseas move was well displayed throughout the book. The slow burn tension was on point. All while also highlighting Abby’s friendships and chosen family. The banter is sharp, playful, and completely irresistible. This is a standout debut from Anna McCallie, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
July 3, 2026
4.5⭐️
Thank you @prhaudio #prhaudiopartner for the #gifted audiobook so I could go between eyeballs and earballs.
🔥🔥Technically one open door scene, one HIGH tension sort of fade to black scene, as well as innuendo and chatter outside of the bedroom.
CW: Emotional infidelity
Quick intro:
On the heels of a broken engagement and in search of a fresh start, social media manager Abby up and moves to England to work for the Mersey Football Club.
Quick thoughts:
Listen, when one of my trusted friends LOVES this book (@laura.getslit) and one of my trusted friends (@books_with_bex) LOAAAAATHES it, I know I have to read it so see where I fall. I’m happy to report I fall on the LOVE side, with a couple caveats.
This book will hook you immediately with its humor and banter and if you’re listening to the audiobook, the Scottish accent that Mia Hutchinson-Shaw pulls off for Lachlan (purrrrrrrr….highly recommend). I laughed out loud so much while reading this - the author is SO dang witty. BUT LISTEN. This is a messy messy romance. There were times (many) where I wanted to smack our MCs and ring their freaking necks because of bad decisions and lack of self awareness and their inability to have a freaking conversation. Sorry to those who were around me when I read this publicly because I was….very vocal.
HOWEVER, I loved this book?! I think it’s a testament to Anna’s writing (a debut hellooooo) that I didn’t absolutely hate the whole thing given the fact that the MMC is separated from his wife for the entire book. Any instance of mess/emotional infidelity is usually a hard no for me, but for some reason it worked in this instance and I ended up feeling really satisfied with both of the MCs journeys at the end. And even cried, because it was so dang beautiful. I think the topic is handled with such care and nuance. And can we give a shout out to Josh!? Abby’s BFF who was the voice of reason and such a good friend. We need more Joshes in the world. 👏🏼
I also want to add that I LOVED the Mersey Football Club. Reading the team scenes reminded me of how I felt reading The Cheat Sheet by Sarah Adams. Anna masterfully handled the locker room and soccer scenes in a way that made the room feel full, chaotic, lively, and all-in-all made sense. It was in these scenes I felt like her writing really shined.
Read this book if you like the SLOWEST OF SLOW BURNS, sports romances, workplaces romances, high tension, so much yearning, found family, deliciously funny banter, accents, are ok with MESS, bingeable reads, and know nothing about the World Cup but are in the mood for something soccer related because of it all (I.e. me).
Thank you @prhaudio #prhaudiopartner for the #gifted audiobook so I could go between eyeballs and earballs.
🔥🔥Technically one open door scene, one HIGH tension sort of fade to black scene, as well as innuendo and chatter outside of the bedroom.
CW: Emotional infidelity
Quick intro:
On the heels of a broken engagement and in search of a fresh start, social media manager Abby up and moves to England to work for the Mersey Football Club.
Quick thoughts:
Listen, when one of my trusted friends LOVES this book (@laura.getslit) and one of my trusted friends (@books_with_bex) LOAAAAATHES it, I know I have to read it so see where I fall. I’m happy to report I fall on the LOVE side, with a couple caveats.
This book will hook you immediately with its humor and banter and if you’re listening to the audiobook, the Scottish accent that Mia Hutchinson-Shaw pulls off for Lachlan (purrrrrrrr….highly recommend). I laughed out loud so much while reading this - the author is SO dang witty. BUT LISTEN. This is a messy messy romance. There were times (many) where I wanted to smack our MCs and ring their freaking necks because of bad decisions and lack of self awareness and their inability to have a freaking conversation. Sorry to those who were around me when I read this publicly because I was….very vocal.
HOWEVER, I loved this book?! I think it’s a testament to Anna’s writing (a debut hellooooo) that I didn’t absolutely hate the whole thing given the fact that the MMC is separated from his wife for the entire book. Any instance of mess/emotional infidelity is usually a hard no for me, but for some reason it worked in this instance and I ended up feeling really satisfied with both of the MCs journeys at the end. And even cried, because it was so dang beautiful. I think the topic is handled with such care and nuance. And can we give a shout out to Josh!? Abby’s BFF who was the voice of reason and such a good friend. We need more Joshes in the world. 👏🏼
I also want to add that I LOVED the Mersey Football Club. Reading the team scenes reminded me of how I felt reading The Cheat Sheet by Sarah Adams. Anna masterfully handled the locker room and soccer scenes in a way that made the room feel full, chaotic, lively, and all-in-all made sense. It was in these scenes I felt like her writing really shined.
Read this book if you like the SLOWEST OF SLOW BURNS, sports romances, workplaces romances, high tension, so much yearning, found family, deliciously funny banter, accents, are ok with MESS, bingeable reads, and know nothing about the World Cup but are in the mood for something soccer related because of it all (I.e. me).
July 4, 2026
I feel like this will be a love it or hate it book that hinges on your feelings about infidelity.
This was a love & hate book for me and rating-wise I put it in the middle because I wasn’t sure what else to do.
The romance in this book starts as an intense emotional affair. The sexual tension is high, both parties know they shouldn’t but can’t help falling in love with one another despite the red flags everywhere.
Eventually the emotional affair ends before it gets out and out sexual and the two step back from one another and take some time to sort out their own lives and relationships.
But. This is a romance novel. You know what the ending is going in. You know that something that starts pretty toxic is going to end up happily ever after.
That is where I struggled. Fitting a very well-told story about the intoxicating experience of an emotional affair into the constraints of the romance genre… concerned me. Infidelity is not uncommon, but what place does it have in a happily ever after?
Aside from the issue of infidelity… the writing was great. The banter was cute and funny, some of the best I’ve read in a long time. The character growth was exactly what I like to see in a romance- a woman flourishing in her career and her friendships and finding herself. The football setting was fun and timely and gave that found family theme I also love in romances.
I have not read a book that elicited such complicated feelings in me. I guess that is a credit to the author, but… I think she wrote the wrong story for this genre. I’d love to see what she could do with this story as a drama or what she could with this story by making the workplace drama the tension instead.
This was a love & hate book for me and rating-wise I put it in the middle because I wasn’t sure what else to do.
The romance in this book starts as an intense emotional affair. The sexual tension is high, both parties know they shouldn’t but can’t help falling in love with one another despite the red flags everywhere.
Eventually the emotional affair ends before it gets out and out sexual and the two step back from one another and take some time to sort out their own lives and relationships.
But. This is a romance novel. You know what the ending is going in. You know that something that starts pretty toxic is going to end up happily ever after.
That is where I struggled. Fitting a very well-told story about the intoxicating experience of an emotional affair into the constraints of the romance genre… concerned me. Infidelity is not uncommon, but what place does it have in a happily ever after?
Aside from the issue of infidelity… the writing was great. The banter was cute and funny, some of the best I’ve read in a long time. The character growth was exactly what I like to see in a romance- a woman flourishing in her career and her friendships and finding herself. The football setting was fun and timely and gave that found family theme I also love in romances.
I have not read a book that elicited such complicated feelings in me. I guess that is a credit to the author, but… I think she wrote the wrong story for this genre. I’d love to see what she could do with this story as a drama or what she could with this story by making the workplace drama the tension instead.
June 25, 2026
Genre: Sports/ Contemporary Romance
Format: 📱eARC
Pub date: June 23, 2026
Abby McIntyre moves from Boston to Liverpool after breaking off her engagement with her cheating ex-fiancée. She takes a marketing job with the Mersey football club, even though she knows nothing about football (soccer). Abby develops a strong friendship with star player, Lachlan Ramsay. As Abby begins to rebuild her life, she must decide which lines she is willing to cross to get what she really wants.
Themes and Vibes:
⚽️ sports romance
⚽️ friends to more
⚽️ slow-burn
⚽️ witty banter
⚽️ self-discovery
This story was witty and heartfelt. The author did great job of bringing the characters to life, making you feel the camaraderie of the team, and making you feel the emotional dilemma that Abby faced.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the advance copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Format: 📱eARC
Pub date: June 23, 2026
Abby McIntyre moves from Boston to Liverpool after breaking off her engagement with her cheating ex-fiancée. She takes a marketing job with the Mersey football club, even though she knows nothing about football (soccer). Abby develops a strong friendship with star player, Lachlan Ramsay. As Abby begins to rebuild her life, she must decide which lines she is willing to cross to get what she really wants.
Themes and Vibes:
⚽️ sports romance
⚽️ friends to more
⚽️ slow-burn
⚽️ witty banter
⚽️ self-discovery
This story was witty and heartfelt. The author did great job of bringing the characters to life, making you feel the camaraderie of the team, and making you feel the emotional dilemma that Abby faced.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for the advance copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
July 5, 2026
I think this book best comps to Emily Henry's Funny Story in that both books are really following an FMC getting her life together after her wedding falls apart, though the two books obviously diverge tremendously from there. I compare it to Emily Henry though so that you know the vibes on the romance to contemporary fiction continuum. The romance in this book is so MESSY though too, so that's important to keep in mind. Actually read the description of this book if emotional cheating is something that you're a hard no on. But this book caught me off guard when suddenly I was crying, so I really do think it's an absolutely fantastic debut. Definitely the perfect time to read it too, with the World Cup happening.
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.
June 23, 2026
Happy pub date to one of my fave books of the year!!!
I will be singing the praises of Abby Offsides from every rooftop. This book has everything: a realistic FMC, a swoony Scottish love interest, SUCH a lovable supporting cast, and a high-energy soccer (sorry…football) atmosphere. I’d say the vibes are impeccably Ted Lasso romcom core.
Abby is a sharp, witty American coming off a baaaad breakup. She decides to hop across the pond and work for a football club in Liverpool—and she doesn’t know a thing about this kind of football! Of course, the footballers are all easy on the eyes…but none hold a candle to Lachlan Ramsey (who also happens to have a biiiiiit of baggage). Our girl Abby has a lot to learn and it is such a fun journey. This story had me giggling and blushing, but it also made my heart ache!!
All I can say is THANK YOU NetGalley for this ARC… I’m forever grateful. 4.5 🌟 rounded up! Seriously. I can’t believe this is a debut. Anna McCallie, I’m your new biggest fan. And now I have a parasocial connection to these fictional characters.
I will be singing the praises of Abby Offsides from every rooftop. This book has everything: a realistic FMC, a swoony Scottish love interest, SUCH a lovable supporting cast, and a high-energy soccer (sorry…football) atmosphere. I’d say the vibes are impeccably Ted Lasso romcom core.
Abby is a sharp, witty American coming off a baaaad breakup. She decides to hop across the pond and work for a football club in Liverpool—and she doesn’t know a thing about this kind of football! Of course, the footballers are all easy on the eyes…but none hold a candle to Lachlan Ramsey (who also happens to have a biiiiiit of baggage). Our girl Abby has a lot to learn and it is such a fun journey. This story had me giggling and blushing, but it also made my heart ache!!
All I can say is THANK YOU NetGalley for this ARC… I’m forever grateful. 4.5 🌟 rounded up! Seriously. I can’t believe this is a debut. Anna McCallie, I’m your new biggest fan. And now I have a parasocial connection to these fictional characters.
January 10, 2026
what an incredible debut novel! i loved this from the moment i picked it up. lachlan was such a golden retriever and i absolutely LOVED him! i also loved abby so much. it was so fun watching her navigate her new life in another country after a failed engagement. she was so strong and so funny! the only thing that kept this from being a 5 star for me is that i feel like it moved a little too quickly for my liking. i really enjoy more of a slow burn. this has great tension, but it could have been even better!! all in all, i HIGHLY recommend abby offsides to any romance reader and think it will be highly enjoyable!
June 20, 2026
THIS BOOK!!! It is so good, guys. I really mean it. I am floored.
And look, I’ll be honest: I have no interest in soccer (football, sorry). I have watched maybe three episodes of Ted Lasso and absolutely zero World Cup matches. I don’t even usually like friends to lovers romance.
Abby Offsides makes me want to hop on a flight to the UK and go deep, deep into football culture in Northern England.
But perhaps more importantly, I’m so glad Abby took that flight across the pond. This FMC is the perfect smart, scrappy, and a little sad heroine who just wants something new, and finds in a new home and a new job and a new sport so much more than she thought.
Her and Lochlan have that beautiful, instant chemistry of best friends who just—fit, in sync. If you’ve been there or seen that before, you’ll feel it in every bit of choreography over shared lemon wedges and fries. He’s so STUPIDLY CUTE in how he sees and appreciates her, even so early on. Also SCOTTISH. Say less.
Add to that forced proximity that builds into absolutely INSANE tension, real themes on past love and moving on, beautiful found family and friendship, and yes, the perfect bit of sport and athletic thighs and celebration, and you’ve got a championship-worthy debut.
🎧 Mia Hutchinson-Shaw never misses, and that’s absolutely the case here. Just pitch perfect in all voices, even when she has to nail these accents.
Please read this one!!!
Thank you PRH Audio for the ALC and Thousand Voices / Ballantine for the ARC!
And look, I’ll be honest: I have no interest in soccer (football, sorry). I have watched maybe three episodes of Ted Lasso and absolutely zero World Cup matches. I don’t even usually like friends to lovers romance.
Abby Offsides makes me want to hop on a flight to the UK and go deep, deep into football culture in Northern England.
But perhaps more importantly, I’m so glad Abby took that flight across the pond. This FMC is the perfect smart, scrappy, and a little sad heroine who just wants something new, and finds in a new home and a new job and a new sport so much more than she thought.
Her and Lochlan have that beautiful, instant chemistry of best friends who just—fit, in sync. If you’ve been there or seen that before, you’ll feel it in every bit of choreography over shared lemon wedges and fries. He’s so STUPIDLY CUTE in how he sees and appreciates her, even so early on. Also SCOTTISH. Say less.
Add to that forced proximity that builds into absolutely INSANE tension, real themes on past love and moving on, beautiful found family and friendship, and yes, the perfect bit of sport and athletic thighs and celebration, and you’ve got a championship-worthy debut.
🎧 Mia Hutchinson-Shaw never misses, and that’s absolutely the case here. Just pitch perfect in all voices, even when she has to nail these accents.
Please read this one!!!
Thank you PRH Audio for the ALC and Thousand Voices / Ballantine for the ARC!
July 1, 2026
I cannot believe this is a debut.
After her fiancé’s betrayal, Abby impulsively leaves everything behind for a one-way flight to the UK, where a fresh start lands her a dream job with a football club…and an unexpected connection with the team’s newest Scottish star. As the two grow closer, their chemistry is undeniable, but so are the complicated circumstances standing between them.
I was completely obsessed with this one from beginning to end. The banter is absolutely off the charts, and the romance is the slowest of slow burns, in the very best way. Every conversation, every lingering glance, and every bit of tension had me completely invested.
Abby is one of those characters I genuinely want to be friends with. Watching her rediscover herself after years of living on autopilot was just as satisfying as watching the romance unfold.
I switched between the audiobook and print, and both were excellent. The audio especially brought the humor, chemistry, and emotional moments to life, making it so easy to keep listening.
I can’t think of a more perfect time for this book to release than during the World Cup. If you’re already caught up in football fever or just love witty banter, unforgettable chemistry, and a romance that earns every moment, don’t miss this one. ⚽❤️
After her fiancé’s betrayal, Abby impulsively leaves everything behind for a one-way flight to the UK, where a fresh start lands her a dream job with a football club…and an unexpected connection with the team’s newest Scottish star. As the two grow closer, their chemistry is undeniable, but so are the complicated circumstances standing between them.
I was completely obsessed with this one from beginning to end. The banter is absolutely off the charts, and the romance is the slowest of slow burns, in the very best way. Every conversation, every lingering glance, and every bit of tension had me completely invested.
Abby is one of those characters I genuinely want to be friends with. Watching her rediscover herself after years of living on autopilot was just as satisfying as watching the romance unfold.
I switched between the audiobook and print, and both were excellent. The audio especially brought the humor, chemistry, and emotional moments to life, making it so easy to keep listening.
I can’t think of a more perfect time for this book to release than during the World Cup. If you’re already caught up in football fever or just love witty banter, unforgettable chemistry, and a romance that earns every moment, don’t miss this one. ⚽❤️
June 12, 2026
Oh, my heart. I adored this book SO much! Whyyy are there not more soccer romance books?! It’s my favorite sport and this one has SO much depth and heart.
I couldn’t help but think of Ted Lasso while reading this—it channels those vibes well. Abby picks up her life and moves on a whim to England after her fiancé admits to cheating. She ends up as the social media manager for a prominent (fictional) football (soccer) team.
Abby goes through a LOT in this book, and I was really impressed with her growth by the end. She is able to stand up for herself in a lot of ways that she couldn’t at the beginning. Lachlan also goes through a lot and sees a good amount of his own growth. I absolutely loved them both, and even more together. 😍
But when I say this is a slow burn, I sure mean it. Abby and Lachlan not only go through a lot individually, they are put through the wringer as a couple. For a good majority of the book they are “just friends”. And I will say, their friendship is total goals! (Pun intended) I cannot even tell you how much I loved their solid foundation before anything romantic ever happens.
There is a big reason it takes these two so long to get together, and while it has the potential to upset readers…I thought it was raw, real, and incredibly gracefully handled.
Guys, this book still lives rent free in my head. Everything about it is perfection—the characters, including such a fun cast of side characters; the rainy England setting; the romance; the forgiveness and (eventual) honest communication; and all the soccer additives! I’m not saying you need to love soccer to appreciate this book, but I DO think it will add quite a bit to your enjoyment!
I couldn’t help but think of Ted Lasso while reading this—it channels those vibes well. Abby picks up her life and moves on a whim to England after her fiancé admits to cheating. She ends up as the social media manager for a prominent (fictional) football (soccer) team.
Abby goes through a LOT in this book, and I was really impressed with her growth by the end. She is able to stand up for herself in a lot of ways that she couldn’t at the beginning. Lachlan also goes through a lot and sees a good amount of his own growth. I absolutely loved them both, and even more together. 😍
But when I say this is a slow burn, I sure mean it. Abby and Lachlan not only go through a lot individually, they are put through the wringer as a couple. For a good majority of the book they are “just friends”. And I will say, their friendship is total goals! (Pun intended) I cannot even tell you how much I loved their solid foundation before anything romantic ever happens.
There is a big reason it takes these two so long to get together, and while it has the potential to upset readers…I thought it was raw, real, and incredibly gracefully handled.
Guys, this book still lives rent free in my head. Everything about it is perfection—the characters, including such a fun cast of side characters; the rainy England setting; the romance; the forgiveness and (eventual) honest communication; and all the soccer additives! I’m not saying you need to love soccer to appreciate this book, but I DO think it will add quite a bit to your enjoyment!
June 27, 2026
I always say, if a book makes me cry, it’s an automatic five stars. This book was everything. It had humor, angst, yearning, found family, incredible character growth, and beautiful themes about learning to love yourself and others through life’s imperfections. I could go on and on! The banter between Abby and Lachlan was absolutely top-tier, and I laughed out loud so many times. Their chemistry was effortless, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning. This has skyrocketed to one of my favorite reads of 2026, and I already know it’s one I’ll be recommending to everyone I know.
July 9, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Guys… THE BANTER. I loved this book so much and had the best time reading it.
This might not be a book for everyone because of elements surrounding the characters’ friendship/relationship but I thought it was handled really well and the author can write some banter!!! Can’t wait to see what she comes out with next.
Guys… THE BANTER. I loved this book so much and had the best time reading it.
This might not be a book for everyone because of elements surrounding the characters’ friendship/relationship but I thought it was handled really well and the author can write some banter!!! Can’t wait to see what she comes out with next.
June 25, 2026
I was really excited for this book! However, it didn't meet my expectations. A lot of the story was tell not show, which removed a lot of the romance and relationship building. The FMC was a quasi-Mary Sue, where everyone loved her, and all the football players just adored and she was JUST SO funny. Also, it was annoying how naive she was about the relationship with the MMC. A lot of this felt silly, and not believable. It had a lot potential, it just didn't hit for me.
April 26, 2026
Abby Offsides is a fast-paced, soccer rom-com about a woman named Abby who goes through a harsh break up from her fiancé and flees Boston to live in Liverpool for a new start. She becomes a social media manager for a pro football (⚽️) team and sparks a romance with a Scottish player named Lachlan.
Abby and Lachlan become fast friends and quickly gain attraction for each other, but there’s a line they know they can’t cross for many reasons.
Something that I enjoyed from this story were the Ted Lasso vibes I got from the beginning. An American coming to work for an English football team without knowing anything about the sport. Because of this element, I was excited to dive into the story from the start.
The banter between Abby and Lachlan was really entertaining and light hearted. Abby quickly developed a good relationship with all of the players and other coworkers which I found endearing.
The reason why I’m choosing to give this story a 3 star is what Abby’s and Lachlan’s relationship is built on. I understand people go through unique experiences at all ages, but I can’t support the things they were doing and acting like as people in their early 30s. Their relationship felt dirty to me and I think the trope is one that I don’t really enjoy. I was really enjoying seeing their friendship develop but as we got deeper into the issues, it just started to feel wrong. I personally wouldn’t want my friends in this situation, so I’m not going to enjoy my fiction characters in this state of delusion either. I’m giving this an average rating because everything else other than the romance was enjoyable, I just wish the romance didn’t feel like they were late teens/early 20s even though they were in their early 30s.
Thank you to NetGalley, Anna McCallie, and Dell for the eARC! Abby Offsides will be officially published on June 23rd, 2026.
Abby and Lachlan become fast friends and quickly gain attraction for each other, but there’s a line they know they can’t cross for many reasons.
Something that I enjoyed from this story were the Ted Lasso vibes I got from the beginning. An American coming to work for an English football team without knowing anything about the sport. Because of this element, I was excited to dive into the story from the start.
The banter between Abby and Lachlan was really entertaining and light hearted. Abby quickly developed a good relationship with all of the players and other coworkers which I found endearing.
The reason why I’m choosing to give this story a 3 star is what Abby’s and Lachlan’s relationship is built on. I understand people go through unique experiences at all ages, but I can’t support the things they were doing and acting like as people in their early 30s. Their relationship felt dirty to me and I think the trope is one that I don’t really enjoy. I was really enjoying seeing their friendship develop but as we got deeper into the issues, it just started to feel wrong. I personally wouldn’t want my friends in this situation, so I’m not going to enjoy my fiction characters in this state of delusion either. I’m giving this an average rating because everything else other than the romance was enjoyable, I just wish the romance didn’t feel like they were late teens/early 20s even though they were in their early 30s.
Thank you to NetGalley, Anna McCallie, and Dell for the eARC! Abby Offsides will be officially published on June 23rd, 2026.
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.
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.
February 13, 2026
Overall: 3.25/5
Cheating: 5/5
Football Mention: 5/5
I received an ARC of Abby Offsides from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This was a hell of a book. It hit close to home in ways I wasn’t fully prepared for. At its core, it’s a story about rebuilding, starting over, and navigating the messy reality of cheating on both sides.
This feels like the “mistress story” the one where we’re asked to see her side, understand her perspective, and maybe even feel sorry for her. We’re also meant to feel relief when the original marriage falls apart. There’s very little real discussion of the emotional cheating beyond simply labeling it, which left me wanting more depth and accountability.
My favorite character was the best friend. He was the only one willing to tell the FMC the truth, and try to stick to morals and ethics.
If you’re okay with exploring the other woman’s side of the story, this might work really well for you.
Cheating: 5/5
Football Mention: 5/5
I received an ARC of Abby Offsides from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This was a hell of a book. It hit close to home in ways I wasn’t fully prepared for. At its core, it’s a story about rebuilding, starting over, and navigating the messy reality of cheating on both sides.
This feels like the “mistress story” the one where we’re asked to see her side, understand her perspective, and maybe even feel sorry for her. We’re also meant to feel relief when the original marriage falls apart. There’s very little real discussion of the emotional cheating beyond simply labeling it, which left me wanting more depth and accountability.
My favorite character was the best friend. He was the only one willing to tell the FMC the truth, and try to stick to morals and ethics.
If you’re okay with exploring the other woman’s side of the story, this might work really well for you.
June 27, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 Stars
With the World Cup in full swing, Abby Offsides was the perfect book to dive into. Anna McCallie blends romance, personal growth, and football into a story that feels both uplifting and heartfelt.
Going in, I knew almost nothing about football, so I loved learning alongside Abby as she adjusted to working for a football club in Liverpool. The sport added so much to the story without ever taking away from the romance or Abby’s personal journey.
The relationship between Abby and Lachlan was a highlight for me. Their witty banter felt effortless, their chemistry was undeniable, and I loved watching their friendship gradually grow into something deeper. Lachlan’s Scottish charm certainly didn’t hurt, either.
What really made this story stand out was Abby’s journey of rediscovering herself. After heartbreak, she takes a chance on a completely new life, and watching her rebuild her confidence, form meaningful friendships, and learn to choose herself was inspiring. One quote that really stayed with me was, “Healing is a process.” That sentiment perfectly captures the heart of Abby’s story.
The storyline involving emotional infidelity and a fractured marriage was one I found difficult at times. While I thought it was handled thoughtfully and realistically, it’s not a trope I typically enjoy reading, even though it ultimately served an important purpose in Abby’s journey.
Overall, Abby Offsides is a heartfelt sports romance filled with humor, heart, and an unforgettable journey of healing and self-discovery. If you’re looking for a romance with a lovable Scottish hero, plenty of football, and a heroine you’ll be rooting for from beginning to end, I’d definitely recommend picking this one up.
I chose to do a tandem read with the audiobook, and I highly recommend experiencing it that way. The narration brought Abby and Lachlan’s banter and chemistry to life, making it incredibly easy to get swept up in the story.
Save this for your next one-sitting read!
With the World Cup in full swing, Abby Offsides was the perfect book to dive into. Anna McCallie blends romance, personal growth, and football into a story that feels both uplifting and heartfelt.
Going in, I knew almost nothing about football, so I loved learning alongside Abby as she adjusted to working for a football club in Liverpool. The sport added so much to the story without ever taking away from the romance or Abby’s personal journey.
The relationship between Abby and Lachlan was a highlight for me. Their witty banter felt effortless, their chemistry was undeniable, and I loved watching their friendship gradually grow into something deeper. Lachlan’s Scottish charm certainly didn’t hurt, either.
What really made this story stand out was Abby’s journey of rediscovering herself. After heartbreak, she takes a chance on a completely new life, and watching her rebuild her confidence, form meaningful friendships, and learn to choose herself was inspiring. One quote that really stayed with me was, “Healing is a process.” That sentiment perfectly captures the heart of Abby’s story.
The storyline involving emotional infidelity and a fractured marriage was one I found difficult at times. While I thought it was handled thoughtfully and realistically, it’s not a trope I typically enjoy reading, even though it ultimately served an important purpose in Abby’s journey.
Overall, Abby Offsides is a heartfelt sports romance filled with humor, heart, and an unforgettable journey of healing and self-discovery. If you’re looking for a romance with a lovable Scottish hero, plenty of football, and a heroine you’ll be rooting for from beginning to end, I’d definitely recommend picking this one up.
I chose to do a tandem read with the audiobook, and I highly recommend experiencing it that way. The narration brought Abby and Lachlan’s banter and chemistry to life, making it incredibly easy to get swept up in the story.
Save this for your next one-sitting read!
June 16, 2026
First, thank you to NetGalley and Dell for sharing this eARC with me in exchange for an honest review.
I genuinely don’t know why it took me so long to crack open this book after I got it. Maybe it was just my slump, maybe it was just life and general exhaustion. Who knows. What I do know is that I kept saying “Maybe this book will cure me” until I picked up this one and it actually did. I loved Abby for being scared but still having the guts to take back a life she’d lost control of. For doing the hard thing, starting over somewhere foreign and new with only a small life line. It’s inspiring, it almost made me cut my own bangs (especially after that one character in that one show made it look so good).
And Lachlan, oh my god. What a green flag. And I know, I know he’s Scottish with a gingery beard but all I saw was Declan Rice. Don’t come for me, it just made sense in my head. Especially after the Rice Rice Baby clip and the way he stands ten toes down for his wife. Definitely something Lachlan would do. Or maybe actual Scottish footballer Kieran Tierny… (yup I’m an Arsenal fan, sorry).
The banter was captivating and so funny. The supporting characters were hilarious and so well fleshed out that I was invested in their stories as well (I’m begging for a Bashie and Sadie book). And honestly it was realistic, not the fall in love with a super famous footballer while working at that FC. But the not wanting to leave your bubble of bliss and have hard conversations, the hoping someone else will do the hard thing first, and the holding out for better times because you have history that’s hard to let go of.
Anyway, this was fantastic. Give it a go, especially if the World Cup piqued your interest about the beautiful game!
I genuinely don’t know why it took me so long to crack open this book after I got it. Maybe it was just my slump, maybe it was just life and general exhaustion. Who knows. What I do know is that I kept saying “Maybe this book will cure me” until I picked up this one and it actually did. I loved Abby for being scared but still having the guts to take back a life she’d lost control of. For doing the hard thing, starting over somewhere foreign and new with only a small life line. It’s inspiring, it almost made me cut my own bangs (especially after that one character in that one show made it look so good).
And Lachlan, oh my god. What a green flag. And I know, I know he’s Scottish with a gingery beard but all I saw was Declan Rice. Don’t come for me, it just made sense in my head. Especially after the Rice Rice Baby clip and the way he stands ten toes down for his wife. Definitely something Lachlan would do. Or maybe actual Scottish footballer Kieran Tierny… (yup I’m an Arsenal fan, sorry).
The banter was captivating and so funny. The supporting characters were hilarious and so well fleshed out that I was invested in their stories as well (I’m begging for a Bashie and Sadie book). And honestly it was realistic, not the fall in love with a super famous footballer while working at that FC. But the not wanting to leave your bubble of bliss and have hard conversations, the hoping someone else will do the hard thing first, and the holding out for better times because you have history that’s hard to let go of.
Anyway, this was fantastic. Give it a go, especially if the World Cup piqued your interest about the beautiful game!
July 1, 2026
4⭐️
If Ted Lasso was a girl, it would be this book. What a ride! I thought I was in for a garden variety rom com—but it definitely shaped its own mold.
At first, Abby and Lachan were so platonic, it made me want to puke. But the closer they got, with his unresolved marriage between them, the more it made me squirm. Thank goodness for Abby’s BFF Josh! Someone give him an award for the way he called Abby out for putting herself in such a vulnerable position with Lachan.
I spent most of the book wondering WTH is she doing? And why is Lachan treating her like this? I didn’t like him, but I also wanted there to be an explanation???? I couldn’t look away from their impending train wreck.
One little snag that bothered me throughout the book was the dialect of Abby’s internal dialogue. It was confusing. She was supposed to be American, but what American thinks things like this: “finally tell the unbearably handsome man you live with that you quite fancy him, actually.” She had quite a few little British-isms throughout the book that would throw me off just a little each time.
As the story resolved, so did my angsty feelings. In the end, I decided that this tale was quite refreshing and real. People have feelings. Sometimes inappropriate and inconvenient. And they handle them in a variety of ways. Abby and Lachan mucked through the mess of their feelings and their individual trauma, and still found a way to work towards each other. So satisfying.
And the thing I’ll most remember from this book? Erica’s lists for how to restart your life: move body, move mind, move soul. BRB while I go start my summer bucket list.
If Ted Lasso was a girl, it would be this book. What a ride! I thought I was in for a garden variety rom com—but it definitely shaped its own mold.
At first, Abby and Lachan were so platonic, it made me want to puke. But the closer they got, with his unresolved marriage between them, the more it made me squirm. Thank goodness for Abby’s BFF Josh! Someone give him an award for the way he called Abby out for putting herself in such a vulnerable position with Lachan.
I spent most of the book wondering WTH is she doing? And why is Lachan treating her like this? I didn’t like him, but I also wanted there to be an explanation???? I couldn’t look away from their impending train wreck.
One little snag that bothered me throughout the book was the dialect of Abby’s internal dialogue. It was confusing. She was supposed to be American, but what American thinks things like this: “finally tell the unbearably handsome man you live with that you quite fancy him, actually.” She had quite a few little British-isms throughout the book that would throw me off just a little each time.
As the story resolved, so did my angsty feelings. In the end, I decided that this tale was quite refreshing and real. People have feelings. Sometimes inappropriate and inconvenient. And they handle them in a variety of ways. Abby and Lachan mucked through the mess of their feelings and their individual trauma, and still found a way to work towards each other. So satisfying.
And the thing I’ll most remember from this book? Erica’s lists for how to restart your life: move body, move mind, move soul. BRB while I go start my summer bucket list.
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