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Nashville Rampage #6
Risk the Play
NYT and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylee Ryan brings you a new standalone series surrounding the Nashville Rampage football team. Risk the Play is a single mom, coach, best friend's dad, forbidden, secret-relationship, age-gap romance.
Will
Football was always simple—follow the playbook, make the sacrifice, win the game.
I lived by that rule for decades, and it cost me everything. My marriage. My daughter.
By ten, she believed I loved the game more than her. Now she’s back in my life—with a family of her own—I fight every day to show her I’ve changed.
Then I fumble it all by falling for her best friend.
Amanda is strong, stubborn, and raising her daughter alone after her husband’s betrayal.
One kiss becomes something neither of us can ignore.
She wants to keep it secret. I don’t.
Because this time, I’m willing to risk the play. I won’t lose my second chance at love.
Amanda
I always knew I wanted to be a mother. I just never planned on doing it alone.
But when my ex got his assistant pregnant, I stopped, waiting for the life I thought I’d have—and choose motherhood for myself.
Now I’m a single mom doing my best to build a quiet, steady life with no drama and no risks.
Until my best friend’s father becomes the one risk I can’t resist.
Coach Warner is disciplined, respected… and completely off limits.
Watching him fight for his daughter only makes falling for him more dangerous.
We tell ourselves it’s just once.
But one reckless kiss turns into a night we can’t take back—and a secret we definitely can’t afford to keep.
Because if we’re discovered, I could lose my best friend…
And he could lose his daughter all over again.
Falling for me was never part of his playbook.
Will
Football was always simple—follow the playbook, make the sacrifice, win the game.
I lived by that rule for decades, and it cost me everything. My marriage. My daughter.
By ten, she believed I loved the game more than her. Now she’s back in my life—with a family of her own—I fight every day to show her I’ve changed.
Then I fumble it all by falling for her best friend.
Amanda is strong, stubborn, and raising her daughter alone after her husband’s betrayal.
One kiss becomes something neither of us can ignore.
She wants to keep it secret. I don’t.
Because this time, I’m willing to risk the play. I won’t lose my second chance at love.
Amanda
I always knew I wanted to be a mother. I just never planned on doing it alone.
But when my ex got his assistant pregnant, I stopped, waiting for the life I thought I’d have—and choose motherhood for myself.
Now I’m a single mom doing my best to build a quiet, steady life with no drama and no risks.
Until my best friend’s father becomes the one risk I can’t resist.
Coach Warner is disciplined, respected… and completely off limits.
Watching him fight for his daughter only makes falling for him more dangerous.
We tell ourselves it’s just once.
But one reckless kiss turns into a night we can’t take back—and a secret we definitely can’t afford to keep.
Because if we’re discovered, I could lose my best friend…
And he could lose his daughter all over again.
Falling for me was never part of his playbook.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2026
About the author
Kaylee Ryan
104 books6,544 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylee Ryan has earned the affectionate title of “Queen of Swoon” from her devoted readers. With over sixty romance novels to her name, Kaylee has built a beloved catalog of heartfelt stories that celebrate love in all its tender, emotional, and undeniably swoony forms. Her signature blend of charm, chemistry, and genuine happily-ever-afters has captivated readers around the world.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 329 reviews
May 18, 2026
I did find the beginning a little slow, but things picked up tremendously after about 30 percent.
I love a good age gap and this oneeeee was totally it!
A solid 4 star in my eyes. While nothing stood out completely I did enjoy myself while reading.
I really liked Amanda in this one. I gained a huge appreciation for her and the way she held herself throughout. Definitely could see myself being friends with her.
Coach Warner? Completely swoon. I loveeeee him. Something about the older men just do it for me tbh. He knew exactly what he wanted and definitely got what he wanted.
The passion and chemistry were so on point with this one. I could stay reading about Amanda and Coach all day. 🫠😍
Tropes
Football romance (top 3 favorite genre)
Single mom X coach
Age gap
Forbidden love (my favorite)
Thank you Kaylee Ryan for the arc. ❤️❤️❤️
4.0/5⭐️
I love a good age gap and this oneeeee was totally it!
A solid 4 star in my eyes. While nothing stood out completely I did enjoy myself while reading.
I really liked Amanda in this one. I gained a huge appreciation for her and the way she held herself throughout. Definitely could see myself being friends with her.
Coach Warner? Completely swoon. I loveeeee him. Something about the older men just do it for me tbh. He knew exactly what he wanted and definitely got what he wanted.
The passion and chemistry were so on point with this one. I could stay reading about Amanda and Coach all day. 🫠😍
Tropes
Football romance (top 3 favorite genre)
Single mom X coach
Age gap
Forbidden love (my favorite)
Thank you Kaylee Ryan for the arc. ❤️❤️❤️
4.0/5⭐️
June 4, 2026
#Review: *Risk The Play* - Kaylee Ryan - ARC [18+]
4.3/5✨
3/5🌶️
He was her best friend's father, but Amanda have somehow gotten closer to him after her ex boyfriend cheated on her and left her for another woman, just when they were in the process of adoption for a sweet little girl. Being a single mom wasn't easy for Amanda, but having some amazing friends helped her a lot, but this constantly put her in close proximity to Will, which only intensified that insane connection between them. But were they going to risk everything to be together?
First things first, this is an age gap romance (over 20 years gap), with a secret love story which was super cute and sooo swoony. It was impossible to not find Will so sweet, attentive and kind when he was constantly helping Amanda. I liked how their relationship has slowly growing and I enjoyed so much their little secret romance. The fire between them was sooo strong, but it was more than just a physical thing, having something way more deeper than just a fling. I had the bestest time following these two and Amanda's baby, who was such a cute little thing when she was around Will. I'm just going to say that Will was for sure a baby whisperer🤭.
Even though this story had that angst which came with their secret, forbidden romance, there were so, so many sweet and heartwarming moments which tamed down a bit that tension of not being discovered. The age gap between Amanda and Will was quite big, but I liked how the author built their connection and how they were just right for one another.
Thank you much to Kaylee and her team for offering me this e-ARC!
✨Tropes
▫️Age Gap (almost 20years)
▫️Secret Romance
▫️Single Mom
▫️Best Friend's Dad
▫️Forbidden Romance
▫️Swoony
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Football Coach
4.3/5✨
3/5🌶️
He was her best friend's father, but Amanda have somehow gotten closer to him after her ex boyfriend cheated on her and left her for another woman, just when they were in the process of adoption for a sweet little girl. Being a single mom wasn't easy for Amanda, but having some amazing friends helped her a lot, but this constantly put her in close proximity to Will, which only intensified that insane connection between them. But were they going to risk everything to be together?
First things first, this is an age gap romance (over 20 years gap), with a secret love story which was super cute and sooo swoony. It was impossible to not find Will so sweet, attentive and kind when he was constantly helping Amanda. I liked how their relationship has slowly growing and I enjoyed so much their little secret romance. The fire between them was sooo strong, but it was more than just a physical thing, having something way more deeper than just a fling. I had the bestest time following these two and Amanda's baby, who was such a cute little thing when she was around Will. I'm just going to say that Will was for sure a baby whisperer🤭.
Even though this story had that angst which came with their secret, forbidden romance, there were so, so many sweet and heartwarming moments which tamed down a bit that tension of not being discovered. The age gap between Amanda and Will was quite big, but I liked how the author built their connection and how they were just right for one another.
Thank you much to Kaylee and her team for offering me this e-ARC!
✨Tropes
▫️Age Gap (almost 20years)
▫️Secret Romance
▫️Single Mom
▫️Best Friend's Dad
▫️Forbidden Romance
▫️Swoony
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Football Coach
May 21, 2026
OMG - THIS BOOK!!! LOVE! LOVE! LOVE!!
I have seen books by Kaylee pop up here and there from friends, but the blurb for this one caught my attention and Kaylee did not let me down at all.
This is part of a series, but can very easily be read as a standalone and I can attest to that as this is only one in the series I have read...so far. I am absolutely going back and reading the others.
What can I say that won't give away more than the blurb?? Nothing really. This is an age gap but done brilliantly. It's a slow-burn for sure but I thoroughly loved the build-up and then tension later on trying to keep things hidden.
GAH!! I want to say so much more but won't. I really liked that there was alot of support from characters in previous books, and instead of taking away from this story, they added to it, created a well-rounded story.
Highly, highly recommend this one!
I have seen books by Kaylee pop up here and there from friends, but the blurb for this one caught my attention and Kaylee did not let me down at all.
This is part of a series, but can very easily be read as a standalone and I can attest to that as this is only one in the series I have read...so far. I am absolutely going back and reading the others.
What can I say that won't give away more than the blurb?? Nothing really. This is an age gap but done brilliantly. It's a slow-burn for sure but I thoroughly loved the build-up and then tension later on trying to keep things hidden.
GAH!! I want to say so much more but won't. I really liked that there was alot of support from characters in previous books, and instead of taking away from this story, they added to it, created a well-rounded story.
Highly, highly recommend this one!
May 26, 2026
✨ 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 ✨
𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗸 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗯𝘆 𝗞𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗲𝗲 𝗥𝘆𝗮𝗻
𝚁𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚎: 𝙼𝚊𝚢 𝟷𝟿𝚝𝚑, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟼 — 𝙾𝚞𝚝 𝙽𝚘𝚠!
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
❤️ football romance
🏈 best friend’s dad
❤️ forbidden
🏈 single mom
❤️ secret relationship
🏈 age gap
❤️ team coach
🏈 age gap
❤️ open door romance
🏈 dual POV
𝗠𝗬 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦: I am very behind on this review because life is crazy, but I knew I wasn’t going to miss my opportunity to rave about it!! I am so sad that this series is over! I am not kidding when I say that I loved every single book in this series. Will & Amanda’s story was one that I cherished throughout knowing it was going to be the last one. Will is Bellamy’s father, who has fought hard to repair his relationship with his daughter & her family. He absolutely adores spending quality time with his granddaughter Coral. When Bellamy asks Will if he will take on one more kiddo to babysit, he doesn’t hesitate. That kiddo is Amanda’s daughter! Amanda is a single mom to her adopted daughter. At the beginning of the adoption, she found out her husband was cheating on her but she decided to go through with the adoption anyways. The way Will takes care of her & Mia MELTED my heart! I loved the balance between all of the emotional & angsty moments. This story was the perfect ending to an amazing series!
𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗸 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗯𝘆 𝗞𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗲𝗲 𝗥𝘆𝗮𝗻
𝚁𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚎: 𝙼𝚊𝚢 𝟷𝟿𝚝𝚑, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟼 — 𝙾𝚞𝚝 𝙽𝚘𝚠!
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
❤️ football romance
🏈 best friend’s dad
❤️ forbidden
🏈 single mom
❤️ secret relationship
🏈 age gap
❤️ team coach
🏈 age gap
❤️ open door romance
🏈 dual POV
𝗠𝗬 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦: I am very behind on this review because life is crazy, but I knew I wasn’t going to miss my opportunity to rave about it!! I am so sad that this series is over! I am not kidding when I say that I loved every single book in this series. Will & Amanda’s story was one that I cherished throughout knowing it was going to be the last one. Will is Bellamy’s father, who has fought hard to repair his relationship with his daughter & her family. He absolutely adores spending quality time with his granddaughter Coral. When Bellamy asks Will if he will take on one more kiddo to babysit, he doesn’t hesitate. That kiddo is Amanda’s daughter! Amanda is a single mom to her adopted daughter. At the beginning of the adoption, she found out her husband was cheating on her but she decided to go through with the adoption anyways. The way Will takes care of her & Mia MELTED my heart! I loved the balance between all of the emotional & angsty moments. This story was the perfect ending to an amazing series!
May 12, 2026
I am so sad that this series is over! Thank you Kaylee for the opportunity to read all of these amazing stories and fall in love with these characters! This was such a beautiful and fun way to end this series!!
I knew I was going to love Coach Warner, but he beat my expectations. I was so wrapped up in his and Amanda connection!! The way he cared for her & showed up for her!! Swoonnn! Amanda is a single mom & struggles with letting people help her. The way he always stepped up and never once made her feel like bad about taking a break! He just continued to be there & i loved watching her open up to having someone do things for her. I was just so obsessed with their chemistry and the heat they brought! The relationship with Mia was my fave too!! It was so sweet and melted my heart.
Kaylee forever writes the best found family & this friend group will always be one of my faves! This book was emotional, fun, swoony, and a little high risk, but man was it so worth it in the end!!! The perfect ending to the Nashville Rampage Series!
Thank you for the opportunity to early read this book!!
I knew I was going to love Coach Warner, but he beat my expectations. I was so wrapped up in his and Amanda connection!! The way he cared for her & showed up for her!! Swoonnn! Amanda is a single mom & struggles with letting people help her. The way he always stepped up and never once made her feel like bad about taking a break! He just continued to be there & i loved watching her open up to having someone do things for her. I was just so obsessed with their chemistry and the heat they brought! The relationship with Mia was my fave too!! It was so sweet and melted my heart.
Kaylee forever writes the best found family & this friend group will always be one of my faves! This book was emotional, fun, swoony, and a little high risk, but man was it so worth it in the end!!! The perfect ending to the Nashville Rampage Series!
Thank you for the opportunity to early read this book!!
June 1, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
This book was a bit of a rollercoaster for me. Overall, I actually liked the story, and as a quick, light read, it definitely hit the spot. However, a few major flaws kept it from getting a higher rating.
The biggest issue for me was the rushed pacing. The story moved forward way too fast, and the plot often skipped around too aggressively. It was a common trend for a chapter to end and the next to jump straight into "14 days later," without giving us a chance to experience what happened in between. Because of these sudden time jumps, the narrative felt a bit choppy, and the characters didn't get enough room to develop naturally.
When it comes to the plot and the main trope, everything was quite predictable. If you've read a few books in this genre, nothing will surprise you, and you'll likely know exactly where the story is headed right from the start.
Final Verdict:
Despite the predictability and the breakneck speed, it was still a fun, engaging, and easy read for a lazy afternoon. If you're looking for a quick palate cleanser and don't mind the choppy pacing, it's definitely worth a shot.
This book was a bit of a rollercoaster for me. Overall, I actually liked the story, and as a quick, light read, it definitely hit the spot. However, a few major flaws kept it from getting a higher rating.
The biggest issue for me was the rushed pacing. The story moved forward way too fast, and the plot often skipped around too aggressively. It was a common trend for a chapter to end and the next to jump straight into "14 days later," without giving us a chance to experience what happened in between. Because of these sudden time jumps, the narrative felt a bit choppy, and the characters didn't get enough room to develop naturally.
When it comes to the plot and the main trope, everything was quite predictable. If you've read a few books in this genre, nothing will surprise you, and you'll likely know exactly where the story is headed right from the start.
Final Verdict:
Despite the predictability and the breakneck speed, it was still a fun, engaging, and easy read for a lazy afternoon. If you're looking for a quick palate cleanser and don't mind the choppy pacing, it's definitely worth a shot.
May 20, 2026
4.5 stars! Binged it in a day? Why, yes I did! 🏈
-Football romance
-Age gap
-Best friends dad
-Single mom
-Secret relationship
-Football coach
If those ^ don’t make you want to read this, then idk what will!
This was a perfect conclusion to the Rampage series and I’m so glad Daddy Will was the last!
Fast paced, filled with drama, swoon, emotions, spice - it was everything I needed in a football romance!
Somehow, Ryan is able to create an amazing romance in under 300 pages each time- and this was just that.
You don’t have to read each book prior- but I highly recommend you do as they are each amazing!
Highly recommend for any romance or sports romance lovers!
-Football romance
-Age gap
-Best friends dad
-Single mom
-Secret relationship
-Football coach
If those ^ don’t make you want to read this, then idk what will!
This was a perfect conclusion to the Rampage series and I’m so glad Daddy Will was the last!
Fast paced, filled with drama, swoon, emotions, spice - it was everything I needed in a football romance!
Somehow, Ryan is able to create an amazing romance in under 300 pages each time- and this was just that.
You don’t have to read each book prior- but I highly recommend you do as they are each amazing!
Highly recommend for any romance or sports romance lovers!
May 21, 2026
4 Stars!
Kaylee Ryan has a brand new book out in her swoony Nashville Rampage series and y'all. This was a good one. Kaylee never ever disappoints, and this beauty right here delivered and some. Risk the Play is the sixth in this series and just wait until you meet Will and Amanda. These two will hook you hard and fast in their all the feels, must read journey.
I can definitely recommend this author and series y'all.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Kaylee Ryan has a brand new book out in her swoony Nashville Rampage series and y'all. This was a good one. Kaylee never ever disappoints, and this beauty right here delivered and some. Risk the Play is the sixth in this series and just wait until you meet Will and Amanda. These two will hook you hard and fast in their all the feels, must read journey.
I can definitely recommend this author and series y'all.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
May 20, 2026
These books are sickeningly sweet. The sentimentality is over the top and unrealistic, but I read them all anyway so I'm no sure what that says about me. Anyway, I didn't quite understand how these two fell in love and I don't love age gaps so it was fine.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think it’s important to note that I read this in my luteal phase, so take this review as you will with that knowledge…
The first quarter of the book had zero chemistry for me. If I didn’t know Will and Amanda were the MCs, I honestly would not have put them together. There were no sparks, lingering looks, or real tension until just after the 25% mark. But once it finally clicked it was like fireworks!
I still don’t fully know how it all happened so suddenly, but once they gave in to their feelings, they just fit. Their relationship made sense, and I was fully invested. The secrecy kept me engaged because I wanted to see how it would all play out and I was pleasantly surprised by the ending while also completely satisfied with it.
Amanda’s character was a little exhausting at times, especially with how often she resisted help and emphasized being a single mom. It had me rolling my eyes here and there, but as the story progressed, she became easier to connect with. It never took away from the book overall.
I do wish we had gotten more of their beach vacation with friends. It was a week-long trip, and we only really saw a couple of days. I also wanted more of their one on one sneaking around moments.
That said, I still fully enjoyed this book and couldn’t wait to get back to it every time real life forced me to set it down (reality, gross, I know). It’s a cute, light read that had my tummy doing somersaults throughout. Definitely recommend!
The first quarter of the book had zero chemistry for me. If I didn’t know Will and Amanda were the MCs, I honestly would not have put them together. There were no sparks, lingering looks, or real tension until just after the 25% mark. But once it finally clicked it was like fireworks!
I still don’t fully know how it all happened so suddenly, but once they gave in to their feelings, they just fit. Their relationship made sense, and I was fully invested. The secrecy kept me engaged because I wanted to see how it would all play out and I was pleasantly surprised by the ending while also completely satisfied with it.
Amanda’s character was a little exhausting at times, especially with how often she resisted help and emphasized being a single mom. It had me rolling my eyes here and there, but as the story progressed, she became easier to connect with. It never took away from the book overall.
I do wish we had gotten more of their beach vacation with friends. It was a week-long trip, and we only really saw a couple of days. I also wanted more of their one on one sneaking around moments.
That said, I still fully enjoyed this book and couldn’t wait to get back to it every time real life forced me to set it down (reality, gross, I know). It’s a cute, light read that had my tummy doing somersaults throughout. Definitely recommend!
June 26, 2026
3.5 stars. MFC handle the age gap with Grace FMC just had drama in her head.
June 9, 2026
Let me start by saying I love this series so much. The Nashville Rampage family and each of their books are so great!
Risk the Play… well, Kaylee Ryan sure can write a swoon worthy age gap romance. There is a reason she is one of my favorite authors and it is because I love her stories and every character in them. This story is no exception. ❤️ I love Amanda and Will’s story. The age gap, best friend’s dad, secret relationship, forbidden romance tropes were 🔥 in this one! (As tropes always are with @kaylee_ryan_author books!) From the very beginning of the book you knew Will was going to be such a great mmc. Amanda, well, we have all been waiting for her story from the first time she is mentioned in this series and I was so excited for it! Their HEA was so well deserved for them both. It was a great story to end the series on!
Risk the Play… well, Kaylee Ryan sure can write a swoon worthy age gap romance. There is a reason she is one of my favorite authors and it is because I love her stories and every character in them. This story is no exception. ❤️ I love Amanda and Will’s story. The age gap, best friend’s dad, secret relationship, forbidden romance tropes were 🔥 in this one! (As tropes always are with @kaylee_ryan_author books!) From the very beginning of the book you knew Will was going to be such a great mmc. Amanda, well, we have all been waiting for her story from the first time she is mentioned in this series and I was so excited for it! Their HEA was so well deserved for them both. It was a great story to end the series on!
August 1, 2026
Risk the Play is a swoony, emotionally satisfying entry in Kaylee Ryan’s Nashville Rampage series that blends sports-world stakes with a deeply personal slow-burn romance. The story pairs two characters shaped by ambition and past hurts, and Ryan does a lovely job letting their chemistry simmer before delivering genuinely tender payoffs. The hockey backdrop is vibrant and authentic, giving the romance a high-energy setting while keeping the focus on emotional growth and trust.
What shines here is the careful character work. Both leads feel lived-in—flawed, likable, and given real reasons to change—so their push-and-pull is believable and engaging. Ryan balances on-ice action and locker-room dynamics with quieter, intimate scenes that reveal vulnerability, making the relationship feel earned. The banter is fun, the emotional beats hit hard, and the secondary cast from the Rampage locker room adds warmth and camaraderie.
Pacing is mostly solid: the slow-burn romance unfolds at a satisfying tempo, with well-timed conflicts and reconciliations that keep momentum without sacrificing character development. A couple of plot conveniences and predictable trope beats appear, but they’re minor and don’t overshadow the overall strength of the story. The ending delivers a rewarding emotional payoff that fans of the series and sports romance readers will appreciate.
Overall, Risk the Play is a solid four-star read—perfect for those who enjoy heartfelt, character-driven romances set against the hustle of professional sports. Kaylee Ryan gives readers heat, heart, and a feel-good finish that leaves you cheering for both the couple and the team.
What shines here is the careful character work. Both leads feel lived-in—flawed, likable, and given real reasons to change—so their push-and-pull is believable and engaging. Ryan balances on-ice action and locker-room dynamics with quieter, intimate scenes that reveal vulnerability, making the relationship feel earned. The banter is fun, the emotional beats hit hard, and the secondary cast from the Rampage locker room adds warmth and camaraderie.
Pacing is mostly solid: the slow-burn romance unfolds at a satisfying tempo, with well-timed conflicts and reconciliations that keep momentum without sacrificing character development. A couple of plot conveniences and predictable trope beats appear, but they’re minor and don’t overshadow the overall strength of the story. The ending delivers a rewarding emotional payoff that fans of the series and sports romance readers will appreciate.
Overall, Risk the Play is a solid four-star read—perfect for those who enjoy heartfelt, character-driven romances set against the hustle of professional sports. Kaylee Ryan gives readers heat, heart, and a feel-good finish that leaves you cheering for both the couple and the team.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Risk the Play by Kaylee Ryan is absolutely incredible! It is a wonderful age gap/single mother/best friend’s father love story and is the sixth and final book in her Nashville Rampage series. It was a bittersweet book for me, knowing that this last book in the series. Who does not love a mature hero, and William Warner is the perfect hero. Kaylee Ryan is an amazing storyteller and is a must read; one click author for me. I was hooked from the first few pages, it was impossible to put Risk the Play down, and I loved every moment on every page. It filled me with a rollercoaster of emotions. It is the most enjoyable books that I have read recently. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong females, loving families, and friends, who always support one another? I love how Kaylee Ryan always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy men. Risk the Play is the story of William “Will” Warner, head coach of the Nashville Rampage, and his daughter Bellamy’s best friend, Amanda “Manda” Holden, talent scheduler for The Country Fiddle and single mother of nine-month-old daughter, Mia. Learning that her husband, Ethan was having an affair with his assistant, Mia adopts the baby girl that she was planning to adopt with Ethan. Bellamy, Reid, and all the other Rampage players and their wives, support Manda and Mia. Mia bonds with Will, and Will is attracted to Manda, but he does not want to do anything to threaten his renewed relationship with Bellamy. Manda does not want to do anything to jeopardize her friendship with Bellamy, and all the support that she receives from the other women. Things start to change between them when the friends take a vacation, including Manda and Will. Will and Manda share a room with two queen size beds. I love the chemistry between Manda and Will, their conversation flows so easily, with innuendos and playful banter, and Will constantly flirting with Manda. Will starts calling “Mandy,” a nickname no one has ever called her. I love all the little things that they do together with Mia, especially the trip to the petting zoo. Will and Mandy begin to secretly date, but Mandy keeps delaying Will from telling Bellamy about their relationship. Will does not like lying to Bellamy. I love all the changes that both Manda and Will are willing to make in their lives to have a life with one another. One of my favorite parts of the story are the heart-to-heart conversations between Manda and Will, when they discuss their shared experiences in their past marriages. I love Will’s relationship with Mia, how he is always willing the help with her, and how she called him “Dada.” The text streams are another favorite part of the story. I love how the wives of Rampage teammates embrace Manda and Mia. An unexpected plot twist has Bellamy taking Manda to the ER, which causes Will to leave a preseason game to be at Manda’s side. Therefore, revealing their relationship to Bellamy. I love all the surprises that happen in Risk the Play. Another favorite part is the gift that Sloane gives to Manda to wear and surprise Will. My favorite part are the epilogues one told from Will’s perspective, the other from Manda’s perspectives and how it goes above a happily ever after and all the surprises revealed. Another favorite part was the bonus scene shown from Will’s perspective it is the perfect ending of their love story and all the changes that they have made together. I really enjoy how the book is told in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting the insight and feelings from the different characters. I love that the dialogue that Kaylee Ryan chooses perfectly fits her characters. My favorite part of the book is how Kaylee Ryan incorporates the title of the book and the picture on the cover into the love story, and how the title is used multiple times throughout the story. This page turner is filled with heartbreaking, heartwarming, poignant, and bittersweet moments as well as plot twists and surprises, as well as all the moments that make me laugh that I have come to love and expect in a love story and was not disappointed with Kaylee Ryan’s delivery of those things. I love the characters and the family dynamic in Risk the Play. The characters feel like family and friends, especially Manda’s relationship with Corie, Rowan, Bellamy, Sloane, Eden, and Will’s players. I love that their friendships feel like family. I enjoyed all the interactions between all the Nashville Rampage football players it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. I love the descriptions of the Nashville location. I loved the relationship between Will and his teammates. I loved Risk the Play, even though it was a bittersweet series ending book. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? This book had my interest from the start, and I fell in love with the story. I thoroughly enjoyed Risk the Play who does not love an age gap/single mother/forbidden best friend’s father love story. Incredible farewell to the Nashville Rampage. I loved catching up with all the couples one final time, and finding out which couples were expecting babies. Highly recommend this incredible love story. Received an advanced copy from the author.
May 20, 2026
Risk the Play is the sixth, and final, book in the Nashville Rampage series and follows teach coach, Will as he falls for a woman half his age and her baby girl while working to improve his work/life balance.
Will, Coach Warner, married young, had a child young and made many mistakes as a young adult. He thought he was doing the right thing, taking care of his family, but what he did not realize is that spending so much time away from them caused a rift. It ultimately cost him everything he loved. It has just been in the past few years that he has been able to mend the fences and build new relationships with those he let down before.
Amanda grew up with Bellamy, Will's daughter. She was accepted into the Rampage family group just because of who she is. No judgement. So when she adopted her daughter, Mia, they were there for her. But she thought she had to be everything for Mia. She never asked for help. Mia is her daughter and she chose to adopt her as a single mom. She cannot rely on them to help raise her daughter. What she does not realize is that it takes a village to raise a child.
When Will enters Amanda's life, he quietly helps her. Taking Mia from her to give her a break and let her breathe. Carrying her around so Amanda can talk to the other women at get togethers. It is the little things he does that open her eyes to what her marriage had been missing.
So many little moments between Will and Amanda allows them to start leaning on each other and wanting to spend more time with the other. He knows that she and Mia are a package deal. He plans activities for them to do together that always include Mia and are geared towards entertaining the child. He starts to call it family time, and that is exactly what this is. Time for them to be a family without judgement.
But Amanda is afraid to tell anyone about their growing relationship. She does not want to lose Bellamy as her best friend. Nor does she want to ruin all of the work Will has done to rebuild his relationship with his daughter. She is afraid that Bellamy will be mad at both of them. So she begs him to keep their relationship a secret.
But the cat will come out of the bag. The question is, will Amanda and Will control when that happens or will it set off fireworks in the Rampage family? The old adage "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" will not be in their favor.
I was pleasantly surprised by this relationship. I never would have put Amanda and Will together, but they seem to work. I thought she would have "daddy issues" and that was why she fell for him, but was just not the case. She truly loves him. He shows her how a woman should be treated. He takes her daughter into consideration with every outing he plans for them. These two just work.
Will has made mistakes in his life. Be he has done so much in order to correct the past. He is such a loving grandpa to Coral, and all of the kiddos in the group. He really does try to have a work/life balance, and he seems to finally be able to tear himself away from work when he is needed somewhere else. I loved the scene just before the draft at the offices when you witness him making the decision to take care of life. And the reaction of the owner/GM to their conversation.
I am not sure what the future will hold for these two, but I have faith that they will be the family they both have always wanted. Cheers to you Coach Daddy and Mandy.
Will, Coach Warner, married young, had a child young and made many mistakes as a young adult. He thought he was doing the right thing, taking care of his family, but what he did not realize is that spending so much time away from them caused a rift. It ultimately cost him everything he loved. It has just been in the past few years that he has been able to mend the fences and build new relationships with those he let down before.
Amanda grew up with Bellamy, Will's daughter. She was accepted into the Rampage family group just because of who she is. No judgement. So when she adopted her daughter, Mia, they were there for her. But she thought she had to be everything for Mia. She never asked for help. Mia is her daughter and she chose to adopt her as a single mom. She cannot rely on them to help raise her daughter. What she does not realize is that it takes a village to raise a child.
When Will enters Amanda's life, he quietly helps her. Taking Mia from her to give her a break and let her breathe. Carrying her around so Amanda can talk to the other women at get togethers. It is the little things he does that open her eyes to what her marriage had been missing.
So many little moments between Will and Amanda allows them to start leaning on each other and wanting to spend more time with the other. He knows that she and Mia are a package deal. He plans activities for them to do together that always include Mia and are geared towards entertaining the child. He starts to call it family time, and that is exactly what this is. Time for them to be a family without judgement.
But Amanda is afraid to tell anyone about their growing relationship. She does not want to lose Bellamy as her best friend. Nor does she want to ruin all of the work Will has done to rebuild his relationship with his daughter. She is afraid that Bellamy will be mad at both of them. So she begs him to keep their relationship a secret.
But the cat will come out of the bag. The question is, will Amanda and Will control when that happens or will it set off fireworks in the Rampage family? The old adage "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" will not be in their favor.
I was pleasantly surprised by this relationship. I never would have put Amanda and Will together, but they seem to work. I thought she would have "daddy issues" and that was why she fell for him, but was just not the case. She truly loves him. He shows her how a woman should be treated. He takes her daughter into consideration with every outing he plans for them. These two just work.
Will has made mistakes in his life. Be he has done so much in order to correct the past. He is such a loving grandpa to Coral, and all of the kiddos in the group. He really does try to have a work/life balance, and he seems to finally be able to tear himself away from work when he is needed somewhere else. I loved the scene just before the draft at the offices when you witness him making the decision to take care of life. And the reaction of the owner/GM to their conversation.
I am not sure what the future will hold for these two, but I have faith that they will be the family they both have always wanted. Cheers to you Coach Daddy and Mandy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review of Risk The Play Book 6 in the Nashville Rampage Series by Kaylee Ryan. This is the final book in a interconnected series but can be read as a standalone. I absolutely loved this series and this book. This is a 5 star read for me. I am sad this series has ended, I am going to miss all these characters so much but this book was such great conclusion to the series. I love the found family trope in this book and series and how the Rampage guys and their wives have all become one big family and will do anything for each other. This is such a sweet and swoony low angst romance it made my heart melt. I am obsessed with all these tropes especially her best friend’s dad it was done so well in this book. This is Will and Amanda’s story. I love Amanda and how strong she is and what a great mom she is. I love watching Will with baby Mia it’s the cutest. I love Will and Amanda together so much. I love how their relationship starts slow and continues to grow. I love how even though their relationship is complicated he’s all in with her and Mia. This is a spicy, slow burn, recently divorced single mom, head football coach, 18 year age gap, best friend’s dad, secret relationship romance. Will is the head coach for the Nashville Rampage football team. He is back in his adult daughter’s life after having a strained relationship with her while she was growing up. They are repairing their relationship and he’s happy to be a part of her life again. Amanda is a divorced single mom to her recently adopted baby daughter Mia. Amanda's best friend Bellamy is Will’s daughter. Will and Amanda start being around each other more when he babysits her daughter sometimes while also watching his granddaughter. They see each other at family events and on a group vacation. They share a kiss one night and realize they have an attraction to each other and their feelings for each other are starting to grow. Amanda is scared to put her heart out there because of her past failed marriage and she’s terrified of losing her best friend. Will is in love with Amanda he doesn’t care if its complicated he knows they are meant to be and can make it work. He doesn’t want to lose his new relationship with his daughter but he knows what he wants and he won’t let it slip through his fingers. Will used to put football and his career before his family but he refuses to do that anymore. He is will to risk the play for love. He is all in with Amanda and Mia. I love how he breaks through her walls and gets her to trust and open her heart again. They are so good for each other. I definitely recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
Risk the Play by Kaylee Ryan
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
I really loved Will and Amanda’s forbidden best friend’s dad romance. This trope can go sideways fast if the setup feels uncomfortable, but Kaylee Ryan handled it in a way that felt mature and grounded. Will was largely absent from Bellamy’s life after his divorce when she was young, and Amanda didn’t grow up around him, which removes a lot of the awkwardness that can sometimes come with this dynamic. By the time they truly enter each other’s lives, Amanda is a full adult, navigating her own struggles, making the relationship feel natural despite the age gap.
Amanda’s storyline honestly broke my heart a little. After her ex cheats on her during the adoption process, she’s left raising an infant largely on her own while carrying an overwhelming amount of guilt and pressure. I really felt for her throughout the book. She struggles to lean on the people around her, even when they want to help, and that emotional isolation makes her easy to root for. Add in developing feelings for her best friend’s father, and the emotional messiness of it all just works.
And Will? This man is basically the blueprint for “good man” energy. He’s patient, attentive, emotionally mature, and so deeply caring that he never feels overbearing. One of my favorite things about him is how openly he communicates. He doesn’t play games with Amanda, and he’s constantly thinking about how his actions could affect Bellamy and the fragile relationship they rebuilt. The fact that he wants honesty from the start because he’s terrified of damaging that trust again says so much about his character.
I also absolutely melted over the quieter moments between Will, Amanda, and Mia. This isn’t a flashy or overly dramatic romance—it’s built through pizza nights, movies on the couch, cuddling in bed, and slowly becoming a family without even realizing it. The slow burn feels incredibly earned because their relationship develops through consistency and showing up for each other day after day.
And since this is the final book in the Nashville Rampage series, the group scenes hit especially hard. Kaylee Ryan always excels at creating found-family dynamics, and I loved seeing all the previous couples rally around Amanda and Mia so that she never truly has to do things alone.
Overall, this is warm, emotional, and deeply comforting—the kind of romance that feels less about grand gestures and more about choosing each other every single day.
Perfect for readers who love slow burns, found family, and MMCs who prove love through actions.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC!
Risk the Play by Kaylee Ryan
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
I really loved Will and Amanda’s forbidden best friend’s dad romance. This trope can go sideways fast if the setup feels uncomfortable, but Kaylee Ryan handled it in a way that felt mature and grounded. Will was largely absent from Bellamy’s life after his divorce when she was young, and Amanda didn’t grow up around him, which removes a lot of the awkwardness that can sometimes come with this dynamic. By the time they truly enter each other’s lives, Amanda is a full adult, navigating her own struggles, making the relationship feel natural despite the age gap.
Amanda’s storyline honestly broke my heart a little. After her ex cheats on her during the adoption process, she’s left raising an infant largely on her own while carrying an overwhelming amount of guilt and pressure. I really felt for her throughout the book. She struggles to lean on the people around her, even when they want to help, and that emotional isolation makes her easy to root for. Add in developing feelings for her best friend’s father, and the emotional messiness of it all just works.
And Will? This man is basically the blueprint for “good man” energy. He’s patient, attentive, emotionally mature, and so deeply caring that he never feels overbearing. One of my favorite things about him is how openly he communicates. He doesn’t play games with Amanda, and he’s constantly thinking about how his actions could affect Bellamy and the fragile relationship they rebuilt. The fact that he wants honesty from the start because he’s terrified of damaging that trust again says so much about his character.
I also absolutely melted over the quieter moments between Will, Amanda, and Mia. This isn’t a flashy or overly dramatic romance—it’s built through pizza nights, movies on the couch, cuddling in bed, and slowly becoming a family without even realizing it. The slow burn feels incredibly earned because their relationship develops through consistency and showing up for each other day after day.
And since this is the final book in the Nashville Rampage series, the group scenes hit especially hard. Kaylee Ryan always excels at creating found-family dynamics, and I loved seeing all the previous couples rally around Amanda and Mia so that she never truly has to do things alone.
Overall, this is warm, emotional, and deeply comforting—the kind of romance that feels less about grand gestures and more about choosing each other every single day.
Perfect for readers who love slow burns, found family, and MMCs who prove love through actions.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
O Kaylee Ryan!! You ended this series so beautifully!! It was so perfect!! Risk The Play by Kaylee Ryan is the last book in the Nashville Rampage story , Coach Will and Amanda got a true storybook ending! If you love a sexy football coach, the SWEETEST single mom who deserves the world, best friend's dad, a forbidden, secret-relationship, and my favorite age-gap, please read this book AND the whole series!
Coach Will and Amanda. O I had been waiting for these two. He’s the famous football coach, who devoted most of his life to the game leaving his daughter and first marriage to fall behind. But many years later, the chance for redemption, to become the true dad he is and a new grandpa is given to him and he takes it arms open. This man is so much more than people think. A heart of absolute gold, so caring and protective and deep down, longs to find a love forever. Amanda, we met her throughout the series. Treated horrible by her ex and left to raise their new daughter Mia alone, she is the definition of a tough, fierce woman who does it all! But there is a lot of pain there too. Her self confidence is so down and deep down she longs for a love like her friends around her have. Will and Amanda have this connection and chemistry that they fight, fear of her best friend's reaction. But the care and love this man shows, the protective heart he has, the unconditional love he shows to both her and her precious daughter. I just can't express how beautiful this whole story was! They begin a forbidden relationship and it is so so hot, but it also shows the true love that can come from the right person who is all in. And the way this man bonds with her daughter is absolutely precious!
And the found family of this book series is priceless. One of the best series I have read, they are there for each other period!
I went through every emotion. Cried, laughed, felt the burn, just everything. There is beautiful redemption, deep and true lasting love, communication that is real and raw working through this relationship coming to the light. It was so beyond the perfect end to this series and I am so sad it’s over!
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏈 Football Romance
🏈 He's the Coach
🏈 Single Mom
🏈 Best Friend's Dad
🏈 Age Gap
🏈 Forbidden Love
🏈 Secret Relationship
🎀THANK YOU Kaylee Ryan for the privilege of being a part of your Influencer team!
Coach Will and Amanda. O I had been waiting for these two. He’s the famous football coach, who devoted most of his life to the game leaving his daughter and first marriage to fall behind. But many years later, the chance for redemption, to become the true dad he is and a new grandpa is given to him and he takes it arms open. This man is so much more than people think. A heart of absolute gold, so caring and protective and deep down, longs to find a love forever. Amanda, we met her throughout the series. Treated horrible by her ex and left to raise their new daughter Mia alone, she is the definition of a tough, fierce woman who does it all! But there is a lot of pain there too. Her self confidence is so down and deep down she longs for a love like her friends around her have. Will and Amanda have this connection and chemistry that they fight, fear of her best friend's reaction. But the care and love this man shows, the protective heart he has, the unconditional love he shows to both her and her precious daughter. I just can't express how beautiful this whole story was! They begin a forbidden relationship and it is so so hot, but it also shows the true love that can come from the right person who is all in. And the way this man bonds with her daughter is absolutely precious!
And the found family of this book series is priceless. One of the best series I have read, they are there for each other period!
I went through every emotion. Cried, laughed, felt the burn, just everything. There is beautiful redemption, deep and true lasting love, communication that is real and raw working through this relationship coming to the light. It was so beyond the perfect end to this series and I am so sad it’s over!
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏈 Football Romance
🏈 He's the Coach
🏈 Single Mom
🏈 Best Friend's Dad
🏈 Age Gap
🏈 Forbidden Love
🏈 Secret Relationship
🎀THANK YOU Kaylee Ryan for the privilege of being a part of your Influencer team!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Title: Risk the Play Series: Nashville Rampage Series, Book 6
Author: Kaylee Ryan
Main Characters: Will Warner and Amanda Holton P. 268
Tropes: Football Romance, Age Gap, Single Mom, Secret Relationship, Forbidden, Best Friend’s Dad
Book Type Reviewed: E-Book
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
…and we say goodbye. Sigh! The Nashville Rampage Series has been six football stories; friends, teammates, family. Five teammates and their coach, all with the same football goal, but each of them has a different story to tell. And when it comes to their HEA…they will do anything for the ones they love.
In case a refresher is needed, five friends and teammates, Knox, Landry, Reid, Baker, and Foster all play for Nashville Rampage. Their wives are Corie, Rowan, Bellamy, Sloane, and Eden. The head coach is Will Warner, who happens to be Bellamy’s father. And in addition to the core friends, Bellamy has a childhood best friend, Amanda. See where this is going? Now, from Reid and Bellamy’s story, we learn of her estranged relationship with her father. Present day, Will and Bellamy have a much better relationship but Will still holds some guilt over missing time with his daughter, and he is determined to be present and not let his job consume him.
Amanda never imagined being in the situation she is in, a single mom. It’s a lot of work and she is exhausted but loves Mia more than anything. Amanda and Bellamy have been friends for a long time and when Bellamy met Reid, Amanda gained a whole group of friends, which she is very grateful for. Any of the five couples have been happy to lend a hand, and even Bellamy’s father, Will, has helped out some. And that’s where the story begins.
Will and Amanda have such a heartfelt story. I was so caught up in their story, I forgot about the age gap and issues they needed to overcome. Then Will with Mia…my heart. So sweet! To say I will miss this series is an understatement. I looked forward to all of these stories, knowing they were going to be great books. Loved the banter amongst the guys. Loved the teddy bear side of them. Loved the support and love from all the friends. All the couples share an intense chemistry and passion and were so much fun to read about. All six books are 5⭐️! (Maybe we can get a Christmas or Family Vacation Novella…hint hint Kaylee Ryan 🙂)
Thank you #KayleeRyan and #GiveMeBooksPR
Author: Kaylee Ryan
Main Characters: Will Warner and Amanda Holton P. 268
Tropes: Football Romance, Age Gap, Single Mom, Secret Relationship, Forbidden, Best Friend’s Dad
Book Type Reviewed: E-Book
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
…and we say goodbye. Sigh! The Nashville Rampage Series has been six football stories; friends, teammates, family. Five teammates and their coach, all with the same football goal, but each of them has a different story to tell. And when it comes to their HEA…they will do anything for the ones they love.
In case a refresher is needed, five friends and teammates, Knox, Landry, Reid, Baker, and Foster all play for Nashville Rampage. Their wives are Corie, Rowan, Bellamy, Sloane, and Eden. The head coach is Will Warner, who happens to be Bellamy’s father. And in addition to the core friends, Bellamy has a childhood best friend, Amanda. See where this is going? Now, from Reid and Bellamy’s story, we learn of her estranged relationship with her father. Present day, Will and Bellamy have a much better relationship but Will still holds some guilt over missing time with his daughter, and he is determined to be present and not let his job consume him.
Amanda never imagined being in the situation she is in, a single mom. It’s a lot of work and she is exhausted but loves Mia more than anything. Amanda and Bellamy have been friends for a long time and when Bellamy met Reid, Amanda gained a whole group of friends, which she is very grateful for. Any of the five couples have been happy to lend a hand, and even Bellamy’s father, Will, has helped out some. And that’s where the story begins.
Will and Amanda have such a heartfelt story. I was so caught up in their story, I forgot about the age gap and issues they needed to overcome. Then Will with Mia…my heart. So sweet! To say I will miss this series is an understatement. I looked forward to all of these stories, knowing they were going to be great books. Loved the banter amongst the guys. Loved the teddy bear side of them. Loved the support and love from all the friends. All the couples share an intense chemistry and passion and were so much fun to read about. All six books are 5⭐️! (Maybe we can get a Christmas or Family Vacation Novella…hint hint Kaylee Ryan 🙂)
Thank you #KayleeRyan and #GiveMeBooksPR
Review of advance copy received from Author
There’s just something about a big, intimidating football coach turning into a complete softie for the people he loves that gets me every single time, and Coach Will Warner absolutely had me melting.
What I loved most about Risk the Play was that the tension between Will and Amanda never felt forced or overly dramatic. Amanda is best friends with Bellamy, Will’s daughter, and after years of football taking priority over everything else, Will had only recently rebuilt that relationship. So this wasn’t just a “forbidden for the sake of being forbidden” romance. They both had very real reasons to fight what was happening between them, which made every lingering look, every quiet moment, and every stolen second together feel even more intense.
And Will with Amanda's daughter, Mia? Forget it. This giant football coach completely folding for that little girl had me soft the entire book. The way he naturally stepped in to help Amanda, how patient and protective he was, and how easily he became someone Mia could rely on was honestly one of the sweetest parts of the story. There is just something about a man being wrapped around a little girl’s finger that works on me every single time.
But then you also get the complete opposite side of him once he’s alone with Amanda. The contrast between sweet, attentive grandpa Will and the confident, possessive, take-control energy he brings behind closed doors was SO good. Once this man falls, he falls hard, and I loved watching him realize that for the first time in his life, something mattered more than football.
More than anything though, this story felt like two lonely people finally finding someone who made life lighter. Watching Amanda slowly learn she didn’t have to carry everything alone anymore while Will became the steady, dependable person she could lean on was emotional in the best way.
And as always, the found family aspect of this series was everything. The Nashville Rampage crew truly feels like one big family at this point, and getting one final story with all of them together felt equal parts comforting and bittersweet.
Heartfelt, emotional, sexy, and full of so much love and healing, Risk the Play was such a beautiful ending to a series that completely stole my heart.
What I loved most about Risk the Play was that the tension between Will and Amanda never felt forced or overly dramatic. Amanda is best friends with Bellamy, Will’s daughter, and after years of football taking priority over everything else, Will had only recently rebuilt that relationship. So this wasn’t just a “forbidden for the sake of being forbidden” romance. They both had very real reasons to fight what was happening between them, which made every lingering look, every quiet moment, and every stolen second together feel even more intense.
And Will with Amanda's daughter, Mia? Forget it. This giant football coach completely folding for that little girl had me soft the entire book. The way he naturally stepped in to help Amanda, how patient and protective he was, and how easily he became someone Mia could rely on was honestly one of the sweetest parts of the story. There is just something about a man being wrapped around a little girl’s finger that works on me every single time.
But then you also get the complete opposite side of him once he’s alone with Amanda. The contrast between sweet, attentive grandpa Will and the confident, possessive, take-control energy he brings behind closed doors was SO good. Once this man falls, he falls hard, and I loved watching him realize that for the first time in his life, something mattered more than football.
More than anything though, this story felt like two lonely people finally finding someone who made life lighter. Watching Amanda slowly learn she didn’t have to carry everything alone anymore while Will became the steady, dependable person she could lean on was emotional in the best way.
And as always, the found family aspect of this series was everything. The Nashville Rampage crew truly feels like one big family at this point, and getting one final story with all of them together felt equal parts comforting and bittersweet.
Heartfelt, emotional, sexy, and full of so much love and healing, Risk the Play was such a beautiful ending to a series that completely stole my heart.
June 16, 2026
Risk the Play Nashville Rampage Book 6.
I AM so sad that we are leaving the Rampage world. I fell in love with Coach and Amanda’s story and am so glad Kaylee kept the best for last!
The way that these two were drawn to one another couldn’t have been better written. It was the forbidden romance, age gap, best friend's dad and secret relationship that did it for me. And these two deserved a happy ending after what life has thrown at them. Will was getting his second chance at a love that was so forbidden due to the age gap and it’s his daughter best friend, but you can only deny feelings for so long before you pick that person out and it’s not subtle anymore. I hated that they had to keep their relationship quiet for so long but I understood why they were so much at stake with Amanda and Will, but we all know what happens when you keep something a secret from your daughter. And personally, I think Bellamy handled it well, yes, she needed her space but after she saw the happiness that they had for one another and the love I think that’s what did it for her, but I can see where I’m telling me point came from as he was getting a do over but he was finally getting his chance at love again, the one thing he really messed up the first time and he wasn’t going to take this for granted again.
But can we talk about the plot twist in chapter 22? My mouth dropped open, and I had to place my Kindle down because I was so so shocked of what came with that chapter. But I was so happy too. Never did I ever think that would be the plot twist and Kaylee just threw that in there and it was done exquisitely.
Will and Amanda even with their large age gap they make it work and shows that as long as you stick together love can truly conquer all.
The way that this man loves Amanda and the way that Amanda‘s daughter loves Will was so heartwarming. Baby girl had a thing bad for Papa Will.
I am sad that we are ending the found family that was intertwined throughout this whole series, this group just shows ups and makes everyone feel so welcomed and that’s one of the things I LOVED about Kaylee and this series. She writes so seamlessly.
It will forever be the innocent flirting in the sassy side that came out of Amanda that undid me.
I AM so sad that we are leaving the Rampage world. I fell in love with Coach and Amanda’s story and am so glad Kaylee kept the best for last!
The way that these two were drawn to one another couldn’t have been better written. It was the forbidden romance, age gap, best friend's dad and secret relationship that did it for me. And these two deserved a happy ending after what life has thrown at them. Will was getting his second chance at a love that was so forbidden due to the age gap and it’s his daughter best friend, but you can only deny feelings for so long before you pick that person out and it’s not subtle anymore. I hated that they had to keep their relationship quiet for so long but I understood why they were so much at stake with Amanda and Will, but we all know what happens when you keep something a secret from your daughter. And personally, I think Bellamy handled it well, yes, she needed her space but after she saw the happiness that they had for one another and the love I think that’s what did it for her, but I can see where I’m telling me point came from as he was getting a do over but he was finally getting his chance at love again, the one thing he really messed up the first time and he wasn’t going to take this for granted again.
But can we talk about the plot twist in chapter 22? My mouth dropped open, and I had to place my Kindle down because I was so so shocked of what came with that chapter. But I was so happy too. Never did I ever think that would be the plot twist and Kaylee just threw that in there and it was done exquisitely.
Will and Amanda even with their large age gap they make it work and shows that as long as you stick together love can truly conquer all.
The way that this man loves Amanda and the way that Amanda‘s daughter loves Will was so heartwarming. Baby girl had a thing bad for Papa Will.
I am sad that we are ending the found family that was intertwined throughout this whole series, this group just shows ups and makes everyone feel so welcomed and that’s one of the things I LOVED about Kaylee and this series. She writes so seamlessly.
It will forever be the innocent flirting in the sassy side that came out of Amanda that undid me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🏈 Risk the Play - ARC Review 🏈
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I knew Risk the Play was going to hurt me emotionally but I wasn’t fully prepared for Will Warner 🥹 Dare I say this might actually be my favorite Nashville Rampage book ?
There’s just something about two people who both carry so much loneliness finding comfort in each other so quietly that completely wrecked me. This story wasn’t about grand gestures or unnecessary drama. It was about being chosen consistently, about showing up, about finding softness after disappointment and I felt every second of it.
Will honestly surprised me in the best way. Beneath the football coach, the confidence, the authority… he’s just a man who realized a little too late what really mattered in life. Watching him fall for Amanda and Mia so naturally, so wholeheartedly, had my heart in pieces 😭 The way he cared for them never felt performative or forced. He simply loved them in all the small everyday ways that matter the most. And Amanda… after everything with her ex, seeing her slowly allow herself to lean on someone else again was so emotional. She’s strong, capable, independent but you can feel how exhausted she is from carrying everything alone. Watching her realize she didn’t have to anymore honestly made this story hit even harder.
What made this one become my favorite though was how mature and grounded everything felt. The tension is there, the chemistry is THERE 🫠 but their emotional connection came first. The conversations, the trust, the quiet moments with Mia, the way they understood each other without needing to explain everything, it all felt so genuine and comforting to read.
And Will with Mia absolutely melted me. That little family they created together felt so natural and full of love. Also, the found family in this series will forever own a piece of my heart 🥹
Such a beautiful, emotional, comforting ending to a series I completely fell in love with. I’m not ready to let them go 😭
Thank so much to @kaylee_ryan_author for having me on her team 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I knew Risk the Play was going to hurt me emotionally but I wasn’t fully prepared for Will Warner 🥹 Dare I say this might actually be my favorite Nashville Rampage book ?
There’s just something about two people who both carry so much loneliness finding comfort in each other so quietly that completely wrecked me. This story wasn’t about grand gestures or unnecessary drama. It was about being chosen consistently, about showing up, about finding softness after disappointment and I felt every second of it.
Will honestly surprised me in the best way. Beneath the football coach, the confidence, the authority… he’s just a man who realized a little too late what really mattered in life. Watching him fall for Amanda and Mia so naturally, so wholeheartedly, had my heart in pieces 😭 The way he cared for them never felt performative or forced. He simply loved them in all the small everyday ways that matter the most. And Amanda… after everything with her ex, seeing her slowly allow herself to lean on someone else again was so emotional. She’s strong, capable, independent but you can feel how exhausted she is from carrying everything alone. Watching her realize she didn’t have to anymore honestly made this story hit even harder.
What made this one become my favorite though was how mature and grounded everything felt. The tension is there, the chemistry is THERE 🫠 but their emotional connection came first. The conversations, the trust, the quiet moments with Mia, the way they understood each other without needing to explain everything, it all felt so genuine and comforting to read.
And Will with Mia absolutely melted me. That little family they created together felt so natural and full of love. Also, the found family in this series will forever own a piece of my heart 🥹
Such a beautiful, emotional, comforting ending to a series I completely fell in love with. I’m not ready to let them go 😭
Thank so much to @kaylee_ryan_author for having me on her team 🩷
Review of advance copy
5 Their Love Is Unexpected Stars!!
I don’t think I knew how much I needed this book until I sat down to read it. Will Warner has been a presence in all the books of this series, but in Learn the Play we really got to know him better. I truly felt for him as he has worked so hard to get back into his daughter's life and along with that he’s been a presence in Amanda’s life as well. And neither of them thought about each other as anything more than who they were in Bellamy’s life. That all changes in this story.
I so love how we’ve seen Will’s focus change and along with that, we see a side of him that no one else has, that of a man who’s given up on love, and never expected to fall again let alone with a woman who’s nearly twenty years younger than him and a single mother to boot. Mandy is a woman that’s been dealt a hand that she wasn’t expecting but she’s so strong and independent and she moved forward with her daughter, Mia. Their growing friendship and deep feelings are slowly built. They need each other but are afraid to admit that or go there until it’s inevitable.
The slow burn in this book was so amazing. While all the couples in this series are so intertwined, Mandy and Will are just a little on the outside and that’s no one’s fault. Everything changes for them one night and as much as they think it’ll never happen again. They truly are destiny.
This man is everything a woman could want in a partner. He’s caring, loving, swoony, handsome and their sexy times are oh so steamy! Mandy has never been loved like this before and I was ecstatic for her. The way he loves her and Mia is everything. This baby girl has this man wrapped around her little finger! It’s not an easy road they travel though given that his daughter is Mandy’s best friend. There are some tense moments where I thought maybe they weren’t going to make it.
Ms. Ryan has done an amazing job of wrapping up this series. I’m so sad to see these couples go as I’ve lived in the Nashville Rampage world for a couple of years and I’ve grown to love all them so much. I know for a fact that I’ll definitely be doing a re-read of this entire series over the summer.
I don’t think I knew how much I needed this book until I sat down to read it. Will Warner has been a presence in all the books of this series, but in Learn the Play we really got to know him better. I truly felt for him as he has worked so hard to get back into his daughter's life and along with that he’s been a presence in Amanda’s life as well. And neither of them thought about each other as anything more than who they were in Bellamy’s life. That all changes in this story.
I so love how we’ve seen Will’s focus change and along with that, we see a side of him that no one else has, that of a man who’s given up on love, and never expected to fall again let alone with a woman who’s nearly twenty years younger than him and a single mother to boot. Mandy is a woman that’s been dealt a hand that she wasn’t expecting but she’s so strong and independent and she moved forward with her daughter, Mia. Their growing friendship and deep feelings are slowly built. They need each other but are afraid to admit that or go there until it’s inevitable.
The slow burn in this book was so amazing. While all the couples in this series are so intertwined, Mandy and Will are just a little on the outside and that’s no one’s fault. Everything changes for them one night and as much as they think it’ll never happen again. They truly are destiny.
This man is everything a woman could want in a partner. He’s caring, loving, swoony, handsome and their sexy times are oh so steamy! Mandy has never been loved like this before and I was ecstatic for her. The way he loves her and Mia is everything. This baby girl has this man wrapped around her little finger! It’s not an easy road they travel though given that his daughter is Mandy’s best friend. There are some tense moments where I thought maybe they weren’t going to make it.
Ms. Ryan has done an amazing job of wrapping up this series. I’m so sad to see these couples go as I’ve lived in the Nashville Rampage world for a couple of years and I’ve grown to love all them so much. I know for a fact that I’ll definitely be doing a re-read of this entire series over the summer.
May 19, 2026
ARC REVIEW
"Risk the Play"
(Nashville Rampage # 6)
by Kaylee Ryan
Tropes:
Age gap
Best friend's dad
Single mom
Football coach
Secret relationship
The final book in the Nashville Rampage series follows coach Will and Amanda.
Will is the head coach of the Nashville Rampage. He had a daughter at 18, but at the time he was playing professional football and didn’t have time for his daughter; therefore, his wife left, and he has been alone since then. He finally reconnected with his daughter, and now he is part of her family again, with his son-in-law (one of his main players), and with his lovely 2-year-old granddaughter.
Amanda is his daughter's best friend. Her ex-husband left her with Mia, a little girl she adopted and is raising on her own.
Slowly, very slowly, they start seeing each other more and giving themselves to their feelings.
Loneliness is what connects them, initially, and then it is the feelings, growing increasingly stronger each day.
They walk slowly to their earned HEA.
Happy release day today.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
-----
some of my favorite quotes:
Although I'm here, I still feel like something is missing. I know that's the loneliness.
🏈
Amanda Holton is as gorgeous as she is off-limits.
I can't let myself forget that.
🏈
Maybe I'll just pretend that just for tonight, the two of them are mine. Then, tomorrow, I'll stop this madness.
They're not mine.
I can't have them.
🏈
Is this what rock bottom feels like? Or is it that I'm so starved for a man's attention that I'm seeing it when it's not really there?
🏈
She's a beautiful and intoxicating woman, and the air between us is electric.
🏈
It figures the first woman to light my soul on fire and garner my attention than a couple of hours is the one I can't have.
🏈
Tonight, sitting here with Amanda, it doesn't feel casual. It feels big, and overwhelming, and forbidden.
🏈
One kiss. That's all it took for me to fall under her spell.
🏈
She's everything.
"Risk the Play"
(Nashville Rampage # 6)
by Kaylee Ryan
Tropes:
Age gap
Best friend's dad
Single mom
Football coach
Secret relationship
The final book in the Nashville Rampage series follows coach Will and Amanda.
Will is the head coach of the Nashville Rampage. He had a daughter at 18, but at the time he was playing professional football and didn’t have time for his daughter; therefore, his wife left, and he has been alone since then. He finally reconnected with his daughter, and now he is part of her family again, with his son-in-law (one of his main players), and with his lovely 2-year-old granddaughter.
Amanda is his daughter's best friend. Her ex-husband left her with Mia, a little girl she adopted and is raising on her own.
Slowly, very slowly, they start seeing each other more and giving themselves to their feelings.
Loneliness is what connects them, initially, and then it is the feelings, growing increasingly stronger each day.
They walk slowly to their earned HEA.
Happy release day today.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
-----
some of my favorite quotes:
Although I'm here, I still feel like something is missing. I know that's the loneliness.
🏈
Amanda Holton is as gorgeous as she is off-limits.
I can't let myself forget that.
🏈
Maybe I'll just pretend that just for tonight, the two of them are mine. Then, tomorrow, I'll stop this madness.
They're not mine.
I can't have them.
🏈
Is this what rock bottom feels like? Or is it that I'm so starved for a man's attention that I'm seeing it when it's not really there?
🏈
She's a beautiful and intoxicating woman, and the air between us is electric.
🏈
It figures the first woman to light my soul on fire and garner my attention than a couple of hours is the one I can't have.
🏈
Tonight, sitting here with Amanda, it doesn't feel casual. It feels big, and overwhelming, and forbidden.
🏈
One kiss. That's all it took for me to fall under her spell.
🏈
She's everything.
June 17, 2026
What a beautiful way to end this series. Will and Amanda are perfectly perfect for each other. I love how Will is with Amanda. She is determined to do it all but she has support. This story was swoony and spicy but it had a depth to it that hooked me completely. Sad to see this series go but I know we have more to come from Kaylee Ryan! ☺️ ~Andrea
"I’m sad that this is the final book in this series, but Will and Amanda’s story finishes it off beautifully.
There was so much to love about their book, but I think it was the secrecy that I enjoyed the most. Almost had a bit of taboo about it, but I found that really enjoyable to read.
I liked how their relationship wasn’t rushed. It progressed at a realistic pace but once they decided that they both wanted more - they were definitely all in with both feet!!
This whole series is one of the best that Kaylee has written. And even though I’m upset that it’s over, I’m also excited to read whatever comes next" ~Sharon
"Risk the Play was such a good mix of emotional and forbidden romance. The single mom, best friend’s dad trope already had me hooked, but adding in the coach dynamic and second-chance family relationships made it even better. Will and Amanda had so much chemistry from the start, and the age gap tension just worked so well without feeling overdone.
I really loved how Will was trying to rebuild his relationship with his daughter while also falling for the one woman he probably shouldn’t. It gave the story a lot more depth than just the romance. Amanda was easy to root for too, she’s doing everything she can for her daughter after being hurt, and watching her slowly let herself take a chance on love again was honestly emotional at times.
The secret relationship aspect kept the tension high, and every scene between them felt loaded with feelings, longing.
If you like protective heroes, strong single moms, age-gap romance, and a little family drama mixed with a lot of chemistry, this one is definitely worth reading." ~Stephanie
"I’m sad that this is the final book in this series, but Will and Amanda’s story finishes it off beautifully.
There was so much to love about their book, but I think it was the secrecy that I enjoyed the most. Almost had a bit of taboo about it, but I found that really enjoyable to read.
I liked how their relationship wasn’t rushed. It progressed at a realistic pace but once they decided that they both wanted more - they were definitely all in with both feet!!
This whole series is one of the best that Kaylee has written. And even though I’m upset that it’s over, I’m also excited to read whatever comes next" ~Sharon
"Risk the Play was such a good mix of emotional and forbidden romance. The single mom, best friend’s dad trope already had me hooked, but adding in the coach dynamic and second-chance family relationships made it even better. Will and Amanda had so much chemistry from the start, and the age gap tension just worked so well without feeling overdone.
I really loved how Will was trying to rebuild his relationship with his daughter while also falling for the one woman he probably shouldn’t. It gave the story a lot more depth than just the romance. Amanda was easy to root for too, she’s doing everything she can for her daughter after being hurt, and watching her slowly let herself take a chance on love again was honestly emotional at times.
The secret relationship aspect kept the tension high, and every scene between them felt loaded with feelings, longing.
If you like protective heroes, strong single moms, age-gap romance, and a little family drama mixed with a lot of chemistry, this one is definitely worth reading." ~Stephanie
May 3, 2026
5⭐️
Review of advance copy ❤️
I was craving for this book since the moment I finished Foster and Eden’s book, and the waiting was worth it 😩❤️
I loved every second I spend reading Will and Amanda’s story, I knew this was going to be an amazing book but it was even more perfect than that! I loved how Amanda was slowly learning to trust Will and asking for help, and I loved her so much, my girl was trying to do everything in her own because her ex cheated on her and got his mistress pregnant when hi and Amanda were trying to adopt a baby because they couldn’t get pregnant, and honestly it was for the best, because when that horrible ex was out of Amanda’s life, she got her beautiful baby Mia and soon after that, she discovered Will🥹❤️
I mean they already knew each other because ahem, Will is Amanda’s best friend dad and the couch of the football team all her husband’s friends are playing for, so we had a little of forbidden romance right there because of course she was afraid of losing her best friend Bellamy because she fell in love with her dad, and even when this could be weird sometimes, I was in could 9 reading how Will and Amanda fell in love, it was gradual and beautiful and he was there for here in every aspect of her and Mia’s life and oh my heart, his bond with Mia was instantaneous and perfect and I just loved them so much 😭❤️ Will was head over heels not only for Amanda but for Mia too, and even when he was afraid too of losing his daughter because he fell for her best friend, he was willing to risk it all just to have the chance to love Amanda and Mia and that man did everything right and ahhh I just love him so much 😩❤️
I’m sad because this was the last book of the series and yes I’m attached to all this characters and I don’t want to say goodbye!! But I’m also excited to read what’s coming next ✨❤️
Also, this and ironically Bellamy’s book aka Will’s daughter are my favorites 🙈
Review of advance copy ❤️
I was craving for this book since the moment I finished Foster and Eden’s book, and the waiting was worth it 😩❤️
I loved every second I spend reading Will and Amanda’s story, I knew this was going to be an amazing book but it was even more perfect than that! I loved how Amanda was slowly learning to trust Will and asking for help, and I loved her so much, my girl was trying to do everything in her own because her ex cheated on her and got his mistress pregnant when hi and Amanda were trying to adopt a baby because they couldn’t get pregnant, and honestly it was for the best, because when that horrible ex was out of Amanda’s life, she got her beautiful baby Mia and soon after that, she discovered Will🥹❤️
I mean they already knew each other because ahem, Will is Amanda’s best friend dad and the couch of the football team all her husband’s friends are playing for, so we had a little of forbidden romance right there because of course she was afraid of losing her best friend Bellamy because she fell in love with her dad, and even when this could be weird sometimes, I was in could 9 reading how Will and Amanda fell in love, it was gradual and beautiful and he was there for here in every aspect of her and Mia’s life and oh my heart, his bond with Mia was instantaneous and perfect and I just loved them so much 😭❤️ Will was head over heels not only for Amanda but for Mia too, and even when he was afraid too of losing his daughter because he fell for her best friend, he was willing to risk it all just to have the chance to love Amanda and Mia and that man did everything right and ahhh I just love him so much 😩❤️
I’m sad because this was the last book of the series and yes I’m attached to all this characters and I don’t want to say goodbye!! But I’m also excited to read what’s coming next ✨❤️
Also, this and ironically Bellamy’s book aka Will’s daughter are my favorites 🙈
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Nashville Rampage are wrapping up their series with Coach Ripley. I’ve tried to think back and I’m not sure I can remember if Kaylee Ryan has written a coach book before. I was looking forward to Coach Ripley’s book.
Of course we saw him through each of the players books, he is their coach after all, but he particularly featured in Reid and Bellamy’s book Learn the Play as Bellamy’s dad. These two had a strained pretty much non-existent relationship until Reid. Since then, Bellamy has let her dad back into her life and we see that in this book.
Will has pretty much decided that he’s not going to have the kind of relationship his daughter has with her husband or any of the players have with their wives. He missed his chance when all he could focus on was work. Now with Bellamy back in his life, he swears not to do that again.
Amanda is the woman Will falls for and if you recognise the name, it’s because she’s Bellamy’s best friend. Yep, Will falls for a woman 20 years younger and his daughter’s best friend. What could go wrong?
Amanda has been in the books in small parts since Reid and Bellamy’s book. She’s been married but we’ve never once had her husband join the stories. Turns out he’s a bit of a douche. He cheated on her, got another woman pregnant and then left her. That doesn’t stop Amanda though. She still moves forward with their plans to adopt and ends up with a gorgeous little girl to love.
Since she’s doing it all alone, she finds it overwhelming at times, but her bestie is there as back up and as she learns so are the rest of the Rampage family. When Will ends up looking after not only his granddaughter but Amanda’s daughter too, it’s the start of something neither were looking for.
I loved that Amanda was strong enough to still go ahead with her plans and she is a really good mother. I loved that Will vowed to do things differently and mostly stuck to it. The slip ups he had were very small but the sacrifices he made when needed were really big.
I thought their story was great with plenty of sweet moments and some passion too. I had hoped Will might be a bit more growly and ‘mine’ but it’s not really Kaylee’s style. It was nice to round the series out with the coach and loved the older man, silver fox vibes.
Looking forward to seeing where Kaylee goes next.
Happy Reading.
Of course we saw him through each of the players books, he is their coach after all, but he particularly featured in Reid and Bellamy’s book Learn the Play as Bellamy’s dad. These two had a strained pretty much non-existent relationship until Reid. Since then, Bellamy has let her dad back into her life and we see that in this book.
Will has pretty much decided that he’s not going to have the kind of relationship his daughter has with her husband or any of the players have with their wives. He missed his chance when all he could focus on was work. Now with Bellamy back in his life, he swears not to do that again.
Amanda is the woman Will falls for and if you recognise the name, it’s because she’s Bellamy’s best friend. Yep, Will falls for a woman 20 years younger and his daughter’s best friend. What could go wrong?
Amanda has been in the books in small parts since Reid and Bellamy’s book. She’s been married but we’ve never once had her husband join the stories. Turns out he’s a bit of a douche. He cheated on her, got another woman pregnant and then left her. That doesn’t stop Amanda though. She still moves forward with their plans to adopt and ends up with a gorgeous little girl to love.
Since she’s doing it all alone, she finds it overwhelming at times, but her bestie is there as back up and as she learns so are the rest of the Rampage family. When Will ends up looking after not only his granddaughter but Amanda’s daughter too, it’s the start of something neither were looking for.
I loved that Amanda was strong enough to still go ahead with her plans and she is a really good mother. I loved that Will vowed to do things differently and mostly stuck to it. The slip ups he had were very small but the sacrifices he made when needed were really big.
I thought their story was great with plenty of sweet moments and some passion too. I had hoped Will might be a bit more growly and ‘mine’ but it’s not really Kaylee’s style. It was nice to round the series out with the coach and loved the older man, silver fox vibes.
Looking forward to seeing where Kaylee goes next.
Happy Reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Risk the Play completely stole my heart. I went into this expecting a fun football romance, but what I got was an emotional, swoony, beautifully layered finale that had me smiling one minute and tearing up the next.
Will Warner is the kind of hero that sneaks up on you. On the surface he’s the confident, respected football coach, but underneath all of that is a man carrying regret, loyalty, and such a huge capacity to love. Watching him fall for Amanda felt natural, tender, and incredibly real. And Amanda? She was impossible not to root for. She’s exhausted from carrying everything on her own, trying to protect her heart while raising her daughter, but there’s still this quiet strength about her that made me love her even more.
The chemistry between these two was unreal. The tension, the flirting, the stolen moments. Every interaction had me completely invested. But what made this story stand out wasn’t just the romance. It was the emotional depth behind it. Their relationship felt mature, vulnerable, and deeply healing for both of them.
And Mia absolutely melted my heart. The bond that develops between her and Will added such a sweet, emotional layer to the story. Some of my favorite moments were the quieter family scenes because they made everything feel so genuine and heartfelt.
One thing this series has always done perfectly is found family, and this book delivered that in every possible way. The friendships, the support system, the team dynamic… it all gave this story so much warmth. Saying goodbye to this world honestly feels bittersweet.
This book had:
🏈 Football romance
❤️ Best friend’s dad
🔥 Age gap tension
🤍 Single mom heroine
🔒 Secret relationship
👨👧 Found family vibes
Risk the Play was emotional, romantic, spicy, comforting, and the perfect sendoff for this series. I already miss these characters so much. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Kaylee Ryan for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Will Warner is the kind of hero that sneaks up on you. On the surface he’s the confident, respected football coach, but underneath all of that is a man carrying regret, loyalty, and such a huge capacity to love. Watching him fall for Amanda felt natural, tender, and incredibly real. And Amanda? She was impossible not to root for. She’s exhausted from carrying everything on her own, trying to protect her heart while raising her daughter, but there’s still this quiet strength about her that made me love her even more.
The chemistry between these two was unreal. The tension, the flirting, the stolen moments. Every interaction had me completely invested. But what made this story stand out wasn’t just the romance. It was the emotional depth behind it. Their relationship felt mature, vulnerable, and deeply healing for both of them.
And Mia absolutely melted my heart. The bond that develops between her and Will added such a sweet, emotional layer to the story. Some of my favorite moments were the quieter family scenes because they made everything feel so genuine and heartfelt.
One thing this series has always done perfectly is found family, and this book delivered that in every possible way. The friendships, the support system, the team dynamic… it all gave this story so much warmth. Saying goodbye to this world honestly feels bittersweet.
This book had:
🏈 Football romance
❤️ Best friend’s dad
🔥 Age gap tension
🤍 Single mom heroine
🔒 Secret relationship
👨👧 Found family vibes
Risk the Play was emotional, romantic, spicy, comforting, and the perfect sendoff for this series. I already miss these characters so much. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Kaylee Ryan for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 19, 2026
Ahhhh I don’t want this series to be over. I have fallen so hard for all these characters and their babies. I desperately need a future novella with everyone together or maybe even a second generation series!
Will and Amanda have both been part of this series, but separately. Will is the head coach of the football team and Bellamy’s dad. Amanda is Bellamy’s best friend, who had been trying to save her marriage before discovering her husband cheated on her. In the previous book, Amanda announced that she was adopting a baby as a single mom.
This story starts during Bellamy’s daughter’s birthday party, where Amanda is helping out while Will steps in to entertain Amanda’s 9-month-old daughter. The bond Will forms with her baby was honestly one of the sweetest parts of this book. Their relationship takes time to build, which I really appreciated. I think they don’t even kiss until around the halfway mark, but the slow burn worked so well for them. Amanda was terrified that if Bellamy found out about their relationship, she would lose her friendship, which added another emotional layer to the story.
I had always wanted more of Amanda’s story throughout the series, and while we still didn’t get a ton from her perspective, I loved finally getting more insight into Will’s mindset. He completely stole my heart. He was ready to jump in and love both Amanda and her daughter from the very beginning.
Amanda frustrated me at times because she wanted to keep their relationship a secret for so long, but once everything came out, they fit perfectly into the group dynamic. Overall, this was such a sweet, emotional, and satisfying addition to the series, and I’m genuinely sad to say goodbye to these characters.
Tropes:
Age Gap (20 years)
Forbidden Secret Relationship
Single mom
Single Dad
Best Friend’s Dad
NFL Had Coach
Second Chance For Love
Found Family
Will and Amanda have both been part of this series, but separately. Will is the head coach of the football team and Bellamy’s dad. Amanda is Bellamy’s best friend, who had been trying to save her marriage before discovering her husband cheated on her. In the previous book, Amanda announced that she was adopting a baby as a single mom.
This story starts during Bellamy’s daughter’s birthday party, where Amanda is helping out while Will steps in to entertain Amanda’s 9-month-old daughter. The bond Will forms with her baby was honestly one of the sweetest parts of this book. Their relationship takes time to build, which I really appreciated. I think they don’t even kiss until around the halfway mark, but the slow burn worked so well for them. Amanda was terrified that if Bellamy found out about their relationship, she would lose her friendship, which added another emotional layer to the story.
I had always wanted more of Amanda’s story throughout the series, and while we still didn’t get a ton from her perspective, I loved finally getting more insight into Will’s mindset. He completely stole my heart. He was ready to jump in and love both Amanda and her daughter from the very beginning.
Amanda frustrated me at times because she wanted to keep their relationship a secret for so long, but once everything came out, they fit perfectly into the group dynamic. Overall, this was such a sweet, emotional, and satisfying addition to the series, and I’m genuinely sad to say goodbye to these characters.
Tropes:
Age Gap (20 years)
Forbidden Secret Relationship
Single mom
Single Dad
Best Friend’s Dad
NFL Had Coach
Second Chance For Love
Found Family
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