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The Winged Game: A Novel
Not yet published
Expected 30 Jun 26Fantasy meets sports romance in this sizzling slow-burn novel in which the disgraced star of a brutal magical sport must team up with the rival who destroyed her career, from the #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of The God and the Gumiho.
Carriwitchet, the violent, rugby-esque game played atop winged beasts, was once Taissa Cho’s whole life, and she was once the United Kingdom’s most promising player. Until her nemesis, rival player Kion Locke, destroyed her career in a single moment. Expelled from the sport in disgrace, Taissa has spent the last two years dreaming of nothing but revenge and relishing watching Kion’s team plummet to the bottom of the league.
So when Taissa is offered the chance to redeem herself and her career, she can’t refuse—even if the offer is coming from the very man who ruined everything in the first place. It’s close to a dream come true . . . except for that pesky clause in her contract that demands she and Kion enter a fake relationship in order to garner some much-needed positive PR for the team. This could not be a worse match. Taissa and Kion only have two things in their love of the game, and their undying hatred for each other.
Yet as a mysterious illness befalls the winged creatures of the entire league—putting both the beasts’ lives and the very sport itself at stake—the athletes find themselves partnering up in other ways, determined to crack the case of the eerie sickness. As their investigation takes them on a whirlwind adventure, Kion and Taissa are prepared for anything . . .
Anything, that is, but their fake-for-the-cameras relationship to maybe, just maybe, become something real after all.
Carriwitchet, the violent, rugby-esque game played atop winged beasts, was once Taissa Cho’s whole life, and she was once the United Kingdom’s most promising player. Until her nemesis, rival player Kion Locke, destroyed her career in a single moment. Expelled from the sport in disgrace, Taissa has spent the last two years dreaming of nothing but revenge and relishing watching Kion’s team plummet to the bottom of the league.
So when Taissa is offered the chance to redeem herself and her career, she can’t refuse—even if the offer is coming from the very man who ruined everything in the first place. It’s close to a dream come true . . . except for that pesky clause in her contract that demands she and Kion enter a fake relationship in order to garner some much-needed positive PR for the team. This could not be a worse match. Taissa and Kion only have two things in their love of the game, and their undying hatred for each other.
Yet as a mysterious illness befalls the winged creatures of the entire league—putting both the beasts’ lives and the very sport itself at stake—the athletes find themselves partnering up in other ways, determined to crack the case of the eerie sickness. As their investigation takes them on a whirlwind adventure, Kion and Taissa are prepared for anything . . .
Anything, that is, but their fake-for-the-cameras relationship to maybe, just maybe, become something real after all.
544 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 30, 2026
752 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Kim
15 books996 followersSophie Kim is the #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of stories that feature mythology, monsters, mystery, and magic. Her critically acclaimed work includes young adult novels such as the Talons series, as well as books on the adult spectrum such as The God and the Gumiho.
Profile illustration by @warickaart.
Profile illustration by @warickaart.
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December 14, 2025Honestly pretty thrilled about a fantasy x sports romance mix by Sophie Kim.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Romantasy meets sports romance!
This is one of my top reads of the year. It was such a refreshingly unique book in multiple ways. First of all, I’m kind of hit or miss with contemporary sports romances because I’m such a fantasy/romantasy girlie at heart. This is such an interesting mix because the book centers around the game of Carriwitchet.
Carriwitchet is played on the backs of various magical creatures. Each team has one specific kind of creature they ride, for example wyverns. I’ve seen some reviews comparing Carriwitchet to Quidditch from Harry Potter, but I think that’s an extremely unfair comparison seeing as the only similarity is that both games are played in the air. The positions are different, and the goal is to steal three gems from the opposing team’s tower. Whoever brings all three of the opposing team’s gems back to their side of the field first wins.
It took me a while to understand the game and the different roles of the players. I read an ARC copy, and hopefully Sophie Kim will add a glossary or a diagram of the playing field at some point.
The book starts off two years before the main story, and we find out how and why Taissa is forced to leave her Carriwitchet team in disgrace. Flash forward to two years later, and her biggest opponent, MMC Kion, asks her to return to the league on his team to help them out of the bad losing streak they’ve been having. The team desperately needs some good PR, so they agree to fake date for the good of the club. This brings me to my second point that made this book unique. In my opinion, this was a TRUE enemies to lovers. Every book claims to have that trope nowadays, but it really delivered here. I absolutely hated both of these characters for one another in the beginning, and I didn’t know how Kim was going to be able to change my mind about that.
I don’t want to reveal too much because there were a couple of twists that I didn’t see coming, and I don’t want to ruin that experience for anyone. However, I feel legally obligated to mention how absolutely obsessed I am with Cronus. I’m not even going to tell you who/what that is...I guess you’ll just have to read this!!!!
—Thank you to NetGalley, Sophie Kim, and Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore for the ARC copy of The Winged Game—
This is one of my top reads of the year. It was such a refreshingly unique book in multiple ways. First of all, I’m kind of hit or miss with contemporary sports romances because I’m such a fantasy/romantasy girlie at heart. This is such an interesting mix because the book centers around the game of Carriwitchet.
Carriwitchet is played on the backs of various magical creatures. Each team has one specific kind of creature they ride, for example wyverns. I’ve seen some reviews comparing Carriwitchet to Quidditch from Harry Potter, but I think that’s an extremely unfair comparison seeing as the only similarity is that both games are played in the air. The positions are different, and the goal is to steal three gems from the opposing team’s tower. Whoever brings all three of the opposing team’s gems back to their side of the field first wins.
It took me a while to understand the game and the different roles of the players. I read an ARC copy, and hopefully Sophie Kim will add a glossary or a diagram of the playing field at some point.
The book starts off two years before the main story, and we find out how and why Taissa is forced to leave her Carriwitchet team in disgrace. Flash forward to two years later, and her biggest opponent, MMC Kion, asks her to return to the league on his team to help them out of the bad losing streak they’ve been having. The team desperately needs some good PR, so they agree to fake date for the good of the club. This brings me to my second point that made this book unique. In my opinion, this was a TRUE enemies to lovers. Every book claims to have that trope nowadays, but it really delivered here. I absolutely hated both of these characters for one another in the beginning, and I didn’t know how Kim was going to be able to change my mind about that.
I don’t want to reveal too much because there were a couple of twists that I didn’t see coming, and I don’t want to ruin that experience for anyone. However, I feel legally obligated to mention how absolutely obsessed I am with Cronus. I’m not even going to tell you who/what that is...I guess you’ll just have to read this!!!!
—Thank you to NetGalley, Sophie Kim, and Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore for the ARC copy of The Winged Game—
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
.4.5 stars.
⤿ 💌 ⌗ publishing date: 30th June 2026.
.my thoughts.
I actually did not meant to pick this book up, when I heard about it, I was very skeptical because this whole situation sounds interesting but I was scared, but then it's written by Sophie Kim, and I would always love to give her books a chance.
And they hit. no lie.
So sports romantasy is the best thing ever? Sophie Kim tries something new and I'm ready for her to serve and exactly it left me amused and interested. The whole plot infact blew my mind, I was in fact already love with the characters.
Yes, the writing style and dialogues are no joke, not for the weak hearted, the dialogues made my head ache with amusement, and frustration both. Because did I expect the foul language? No, but even more the language was funnily put. On some other day I would have been annoyed, luckily I was bored so I loved it.
Also this book was funny for me, like I don't know why I kept laughing at so many things that occurred in the middle of the book and from the starting it seems to draw me in.
Taissa Cho, is a very fierce character. She's strong, unwilling to backdown from a fight or a verbal even physical spar. If I could be honest, I'm saying that the way she spoke back made me feel satisfied, honestly she was so different and I loved it about her. She was indeed soft from inside, but the way she spoke in her thick accent was anything but cute. She would make you regret talking with her.
And she loved to fight with Kion.
Kion is the very person who brought her career to downhill in jealousy, insecurity and even as a way to revenge on the defeat he has recieved because of her. She would always be good and she hated him which would piss him off more. Butt underneath all those years we have a 'pookie' -- yes that's why Taissa called him - who secretly is a yearner and yearns for touch a lot haha.
Honestly these both were very different characters, they were fighting like siblings/ rivals both at the same time which made it interesting. Their banter made me chuckle and laugh, even made me feel embarrassed because what the hell is a bahoochie situation!?!? I was feeling so many emotions at once with this book. The way he would care for her and the way she cared for him, in the end she was the real yearner I know, and I loved it all, there were so many beautiful moments.
James, I doubted him, for a second I wondered if he was gay [I'm sorry but the way he acted jealous] sorry James, but connecting with him was a bit harder since he was barely on screen with other crew. Yet I loved his bond with Kion, they were good friends indeed. Even though the way they stopped talking after Kion lied was a bit tad dramatic but then I'm the same so I don't blame him.
Knox, wow he was such a cutie at the same time funny. He was very carefree and good to go with, always engaging and verbally sparring with Orion, which seemed like his daily hobby. Yet I loved his character it was easy to like him the way he commented in a funny way.
There are other team members too whom I loved them so much, but you would have to read the book to know about them!! Bronte, Orion and [another one I forgot the name] are the best ones too <3.
The found family was so cute honestly, it made me happy at how when they all opened up they were so sincere in protecting each other. Didn't expect much of it but I loved it.
Even the plot that revolved around when solved, it was hinted at, and it did went in circles before settling in, it was surprising and enjoyable I would say, sometimes it may dim but then the characters itself are interesting so you don't actually see yourself in a dim boring situation.
The ending did had a satisfying end, but I expected more of Taissa's old team hoping that they get what they deserve. Aster and Elise were mean and rude, dare I hoped for revenge hehe sorry.
I would yes , recommend this book a lot! It was so good, sports and romantasy do go well off! But just a tad bit warning about the writing, scottish it is, and dangerously weird. Yet I loved it.
💌 Thank you, Netgalley and Del Ray, Random House Worlds, for this beautiful arc in exchange for an honest review.
.# preread.
I didn't expect to get this arc I'm screaming!?!?! O my goodness I'm not gonna read this yet but in March end probably [watch me go back on my words and read it rn]..
⤿ 💌 ⌗ publishing date: 30th June 2026.
.my thoughts.
I actually did not meant to pick this book up, when I heard about it, I was very skeptical because this whole situation sounds interesting but I was scared, but then it's written by Sophie Kim, and I would always love to give her books a chance.
And they hit. no lie.
So sports romantasy is the best thing ever? Sophie Kim tries something new and I'm ready for her to serve and exactly it left me amused and interested. The whole plot infact blew my mind, I was in fact already love with the characters.
Yes, the writing style and dialogues are no joke, not for the weak hearted, the dialogues made my head ache with amusement, and frustration both. Because did I expect the foul language? No, but even more the language was funnily put. On some other day I would have been annoyed, luckily I was bored so I loved it.
Also this book was funny for me, like I don't know why I kept laughing at so many things that occurred in the middle of the book and from the starting it seems to draw me in.
Taissa Cho, is a very fierce character. She's strong, unwilling to backdown from a fight or a verbal even physical spar. If I could be honest, I'm saying that the way she spoke back made me feel satisfied, honestly she was so different and I loved it about her. She was indeed soft from inside, but the way she spoke in her thick accent was anything but cute. She would make you regret talking with her.
And she loved to fight with Kion.
Kion is the very person who brought her career to downhill in jealousy, insecurity and even as a way to revenge on the defeat he has recieved because of her. She would always be good and she hated him which would piss him off more. Butt underneath all those years we have a 'pookie' -- yes that's why Taissa called him - who secretly is a yearner and yearns for touch a lot haha.
Honestly these both were very different characters, they were fighting like siblings/ rivals both at the same time which made it interesting. Their banter made me chuckle and laugh, even made me feel embarrassed because what the hell is a bahoochie situation!?!? I was feeling so many emotions at once with this book. The way he would care for her and the way she cared for him, in the end she was the real yearner I know, and I loved it all, there were so many beautiful moments.
James, I doubted him, for a second I wondered if he was gay [I'm sorry but the way he acted jealous] sorry James, but connecting with him was a bit harder since he was barely on screen with other crew. Yet I loved his bond with Kion, they were good friends indeed. Even though the way they stopped talking after Kion lied was a bit tad dramatic but then I'm the same so I don't blame him.
Knox, wow he was such a cutie at the same time funny. He was very carefree and good to go with, always engaging and verbally sparring with Orion, which seemed like his daily hobby. Yet I loved his character it was easy to like him the way he commented in a funny way.
There are other team members too whom I loved them so much, but you would have to read the book to know about them!! Bronte, Orion and [another one I forgot the name] are the best ones too <3.
The found family was so cute honestly, it made me happy at how when they all opened up they were so sincere in protecting each other. Didn't expect much of it but I loved it.
Even the plot that revolved around when solved, it was hinted at, and it did went in circles before settling in, it was surprising and enjoyable I would say, sometimes it may dim but then the characters itself are interesting so you don't actually see yourself in a dim boring situation.
The ending did had a satisfying end, but I expected more of Taissa's old team hoping that they get what they deserve. Aster and Elise were mean and rude, dare I hoped for revenge hehe sorry.
I would yes , recommend this book a lot! It was so good, sports and romantasy do go well off! But just a tad bit warning about the writing, scottish it is, and dangerously weird. Yet I loved it.
💌 Thank you, Netgalley and Del Ray, Random House Worlds, for this beautiful arc in exchange for an honest review.
.# preread.
I didn't expect to get this arc I'm screaming!?!?! O my goodness I'm not gonna read this yet but in March end probably [watch me go back on my words and read it rn]..
Currently reading
January 4, 2026Trying to move on from my Heated Rivalry brainrot by reading about fantasy sports rivals 🫂
__________________
Thank you to Del Rey for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
__________________
Thank you to Del Rey for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Want to read
December 16, 2025At this point if she writes it, I’ll buy. Sophie Kim truly does not get enough hype.
Read
January 16, 2026I can’t share my full review yet per the guidelines BUT I think this book will be very popular when it comes out especially given that it’s coming in on the heels of a new wave of intrigue in sports romances! I mean I devoured the book in no time at all! Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me an ARC! I can’t wait to share the full review in the future!!
Want to read
January 18, 2026a new sophie kim world? im sat 🙂↕️ fantasy sports romance, here i come ^^ (delrey gimme that copy rn!!!)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It feels so good to be obsessed with a book after a month long reading slump (yes it was because of heated rivalry).
Here is the line that made me laugh out loud at 4 a.m :
Like that he was spotted at an Elvis impersonator's concert in 2018 - Elvish Presley
The beginning of the book made me think that it would be more lighthearted than it actually was but in the end I was enamored exactly because of the balance between humor and heavy issues.
The romance : impeccable. Even thought it included some of my least favorite tropes (see enemies to lovers and fake dating), it was written so well and it made so much sense for the story that I actually loved it. We actually see them turn into lovers and the sex scene was fucking earned.
The characters: incredible. Both the main and the side characters were well written and fleshed out. Their found family seriously melt my heart.
The plot: impressive. It was about the sport, and about the characters, and about the mystery, and about the romance all at once without being confusing or overwhelming. I was truly astonished by how well balanced every aspect of the book was.
I've been swooning too much I think so I will say that I wish the worldbuilding was woven a little bit better and that I hadn't actually solved the mystery before they did, but that's just a pet peeve of mine so whatever. It does not matter in the grand scheme of how much I love this book.
Here is the line that made me laugh out loud at 4 a.m :
Like that he was spotted at an Elvis impersonator's concert in 2018 - Elvish Presley
The beginning of the book made me think that it would be more lighthearted than it actually was but in the end I was enamored exactly because of the balance between humor and heavy issues.
The romance : impeccable. Even thought it included some of my least favorite tropes (see enemies to lovers and fake dating), it was written so well and it made so much sense for the story that I actually loved it. We actually see them turn into lovers and the sex scene was fucking earned.
The characters: incredible. Both the main and the side characters were well written and fleshed out. Their found family seriously melt my heart.
The plot: impressive. It was about the sport, and about the characters, and about the mystery, and about the romance all at once without being confusing or overwhelming. I was truly astonished by how well balanced every aspect of the book was.
I've been swooning too much I think so I will say that I wish the worldbuilding was woven a little bit better and that I hadn't actually solved the mystery before they did, but that's just a pet peeve of mine so whatever. It does not matter in the grand scheme of how much I love this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Del Rey and NetGalley for the ARC
Fantasy Sports Romance you say? Enemies to lovers? She imagines killing someone with her crochet scarves, relatable, We've all been there haven't we?
I love how Sophie Kim blends folklore with the story she writes, her Fates Threads books remain a favourite asn she has hit the ball out of the park again (or should I say Jewel).
We meet disgraced ex-pro carriwitchet player Taissa trying to make ends meet after a heartbreak of being shunned and blacklisted from the NCL league, when who comes along but the other guy who got her fired. And he's asking her to come play for his team? Somehow they have to also fake being in love? Surely they can endure it for the love of the game 😌 (Niamh ghostwrote this)
I like how the story progressed through the mystery of the terrible plays and the even worse luck of the Stymphs and how the Romance was built on trust and communication and not just damn I hate to love you, let's shag in a closet 😂.
I would love a deeper dive into this world building, I love the things we learned about the land through the story itself. I felt it was a great blend of mystery, fantasy sports romance and a little dash of shenanigans. NGL I almost became a hater of the wrong person at a point. I loved Taissa and her insane bird.
What a way to start off an year with a good book.
The only feedback I would say is that readers familiar with Fae/folklore will find it easier to follow this story though it's not really necessary in the long run.
In summary, I devoured this book , like Cronus did or attempted to, his children.
Fantasy Sports Romance you say? Enemies to lovers? She imagines killing someone with her crochet scarves, relatable, We've all been there haven't we?
I love how Sophie Kim blends folklore with the story she writes, her Fates Threads books remain a favourite asn she has hit the ball out of the park again (or should I say Jewel).
We meet disgraced ex-pro carriwitchet player Taissa trying to make ends meet after a heartbreak of being shunned and blacklisted from the NCL league, when who comes along but the other guy who got her fired. And he's asking her to come play for his team? Somehow they have to also fake being in love? Surely they can endure it for the love of the game 😌 (Niamh ghostwrote this)
I like how the story progressed through the mystery of the terrible plays and the even worse luck of the Stymphs and how the Romance was built on trust and communication and not just damn I hate to love you, let's shag in a closet 😂.
I would love a deeper dive into this world building, I love the things we learned about the land through the story itself. I felt it was a great blend of mystery, fantasy sports romance and a little dash of shenanigans. NGL I almost became a hater of the wrong person at a point. I loved Taissa and her insane bird.
What a way to start off an year with a good book.
The only feedback I would say is that readers familiar with Fae/folklore will find it easier to follow this story though it's not really necessary in the long run.
In summary, I devoured this book , like Cronus did or attempted to, his children.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Firstly, thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey for the chance to read this ARC. I have read a couple of works by this author and was super excited to read one of my most anticipated reads for this year.
I've rated this 3 stars to recognise that I believe there is an audience that will love the level of world building and imagination. However for me, I feel like this is a case of my expectations not being met, rather than an issue with the book per se. Let’s get into this...
The world building was ambitious, and I found it personally overwhelming from the start. I would have loved to see the world building woven more organically into the plot as the story progressed, rather than packed in at the beginning.
There was a fair amount of meandering throughout the character building. It’s great to get insight into internal monologues or the characters' perspectives and thoughts; however, I felt these could have been a little more concise and snappy. At times, I found myself zoning out as the characters internalised waffle was carrying over paragraphs, rather than sentences.
I appreciated the attempt to inject levity into the grumpy rivals/enemies dynamic, as banter was something I enjoyed in previous works I’ve read from this author. However, some of the colloquial Britishisms throughout the dialogue and world building felt a bit forced and disingenuous, particularly those associated with very specific cultural groups and movements within the UK.
The fictional sport was interesting, though it did feel very reminiscent of a more adult, avian version of the sport in a certain magic school book that shall not be named.
For context, I am a 'sports' person, particularly football, which is very much a core part of my upbringing, coming from a poor, working class background; your team is part of your identity. I’m also a romantasy reader, so I went into this expecting it to be the ultimate crossover episode. Sadly, it just didn't hit the mark for me. I couldn't buy into the sport element and the romantasy element was overshadowed by info overload, and I just felt a bit lost throughout it all.
I've rated this 3 stars to recognise that I believe there is an audience that will love the level of world building and imagination. However for me, I feel like this is a case of my expectations not being met, rather than an issue with the book per se. Let’s get into this...
The world building was ambitious, and I found it personally overwhelming from the start. I would have loved to see the world building woven more organically into the plot as the story progressed, rather than packed in at the beginning.
There was a fair amount of meandering throughout the character building. It’s great to get insight into internal monologues or the characters' perspectives and thoughts; however, I felt these could have been a little more concise and snappy. At times, I found myself zoning out as the characters internalised waffle was carrying over paragraphs, rather than sentences.
I appreciated the attempt to inject levity into the grumpy rivals/enemies dynamic, as banter was something I enjoyed in previous works I’ve read from this author. However, some of the colloquial Britishisms throughout the dialogue and world building felt a bit forced and disingenuous, particularly those associated with very specific cultural groups and movements within the UK.
The fictional sport was interesting, though it did feel very reminiscent of a more adult, avian version of the sport in a certain magic school book that shall not be named.
For context, I am a 'sports' person, particularly football, which is very much a core part of my upbringing, coming from a poor, working class background; your team is part of your identity. I’m also a romantasy reader, so I went into this expecting it to be the ultimate crossover episode. Sadly, it just didn't hit the mark for me. I couldn't buy into the sport element and the romantasy element was overshadowed by info overload, and I just felt a bit lost throughout it all.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sophie Kim's signature humorous voice shines in her newest standalone novel, 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘎𝘢𝘮𝘦. This unique tale masterfully blends readers' favorite parts of fantasy and sports romance, featuring a high-speed rugby and Quidditch-inspired game where players ride winged beasts in lieu of broomsticks.
Taissa lost everything at the hands of her rival, Kion. The ability to play carriwitchet and her tight-knit wyvern bond have quickly been replaced with relentless sneers and a steep pile of bills. When Kion begs her to return to the sport and fill a spot on his team, she agrees, only to find herself fake dating her rival and investigating a strange illness affecting the magical beasts.
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘎𝘢𝘮𝘦 is a unique crowd pleaser! While it felt a bit longer than it needed to be, the pacing does allow for appropriate setup and payoff. I adored the winged bonding and telepathic connections, and the character work was fantastic. There are well-built backstories and motivations that made for an intriguing and empathetic read. A fierce found family element develops throughout the story, and I really enjoyed watching it unfold. The inclusion of BSL was refreshing and well-presented, too!
Sophie Kim is such a fresh voice in the fantasy genre, and I adored her unique writing style yet again. I can't wait to see what she crafts next!
Thank you to Del Rey and NetGalley for the advance reading copy!
{{If you're sensitive to triggers, PTSD, abuse, and bullying are fairly heavily explored with a serious tone that opposes the humor, so please check before diving in.}}
Taissa lost everything at the hands of her rival, Kion. The ability to play carriwitchet and her tight-knit wyvern bond have quickly been replaced with relentless sneers and a steep pile of bills. When Kion begs her to return to the sport and fill a spot on his team, she agrees, only to find herself fake dating her rival and investigating a strange illness affecting the magical beasts.
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘎𝘢𝘮𝘦 is a unique crowd pleaser! While it felt a bit longer than it needed to be, the pacing does allow for appropriate setup and payoff. I adored the winged bonding and telepathic connections, and the character work was fantastic. There are well-built backstories and motivations that made for an intriguing and empathetic read. A fierce found family element develops throughout the story, and I really enjoyed watching it unfold. The inclusion of BSL was refreshing and well-presented, too!
Sophie Kim is such a fresh voice in the fantasy genre, and I adored her unique writing style yet again. I can't wait to see what she crafts next!
Thank you to Del Rey and NetGalley for the advance reading copy!
{{If you're sensitive to triggers, PTSD, abuse, and bullying are fairly heavily explored with a serious tone that opposes the humor, so please check before diving in.}}
January 21, 2026
Ted Lasso meets Heated Rivalry meets Harry Potter in this adorable sports Romantasy! Once again, Sophie Kim absolutely nails the grumpy-snarky-lovers vibes. If you enjoyed the dynamics in the God and the Gumiho, you will also enjoy this book! And beyond the love story, Sophie Kim also does a great job at looking at sports teams with a critical but tender eye, calling out the neoliberalisation, sexism, and more of sports while still keeping everything sweet because the whole cast of characters is so adorable. The only negative thing I’d have to say is that the book could have been just a tidy bit shorter!
Thank you Netgalley and DelRey for the ARC!
Thank you Netgalley and DelRey for the ARC!
Read
January 12, 2026DNF @ 25%
I tried for several days with this one because I like a sports romance, but the writing is really terrible and the tropes are so poorly shoehorned into the plot that I wanted to rip my hair out. It feels like a pretty craven cash grab.
I tried for several days with this one because I like a sports romance, but the writing is really terrible and the tropes are so poorly shoehorned into the plot that I wanted to rip my hair out. It feels like a pretty craven cash grab.
Want to read
January 12, 2026Thank you so much, Del Rey for the digital ARC!! 🥹🪽
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rating: 4.5 stars, rounded up
The Winged Game by Sophie Kim is a sports romance novel set in the magical towns of the United Kingdom. Our female main character, Taissa Cho, has been disgraced because of the use of an illicit rune that ruined her career. Her rival, Kion Locke, is our male protagonist, struggling with a team that in two years has plummeted to the bottom of the rankings. Kion and Taissa had a long rivalry before Locke turned her in for the illegal rune, but the hatred between these characters runs deep. Kion recruits Taissa to be on their team to save it from the brink of dissolvement, but the two end up forced into a fake-dating plot in order to keep Taissa’s involvement in the team a secret. In the process, they discover a conspiracy against their team and their sport, and spend their time trying to figure out the cause of all the chaos.
The Winged Game is advertised as being a Romantasy book with a sports romance element. However, I would argue against that classification. This book is a contemporary sports romance book, from the plot to the characters to the pacing to the texting to the tropes. This romance happens to be in a fantasy setting. Calling this Romantasy neglects the larger movements in the genre, specifically the larger-scale stakes and the epic fantasy settings. People expect certain things when you say “Romantasy” or even “fantasy”, and this book does not follow those rhythms. The Winged Game is a dual point of view sports romance centering on a fictional sport involving magical creatures, but it is, at its core, a sports romance.
The premise—sports romance with magical creatures—was very well done. The fake dating plot is fun, the characters have good banter, elements from throughout the book are woven well, with small details coming to have later impact. The magic system is well thought out and not overdone: witches and wizards are humans with magical powers draw runes in order to cast spells; bonding runes connect riders to their Winged; and other magical creatures exist as the “Unseelies”. Everything was easy to understand and consistent, which is always nice. The story also ends various chapters with the captions and comments from an Instagram-style social media, which lends itself to interesting discussion. Usually I really dislike when authors use things like texting or social media, but this was used effectively to prove a point.
The found family elements of this book were very solid, with our side characters having a lot of depth. The team has real growth both as a collective and as individuals. This book is advertised as a stand-alone, but the side characters could easily be spun into their own romances to create a series of interconnected romances.
The story also spent a lot of time talking about trauma, both abuse from the experience of a child and the online hate that we see so prevalent in our culture today. Because of her “cancellation”, Taissa receives an enormous amount of painful and damaging comments, which our author dives into the experience of notoriety in our modern world. We also have a character who was the victim of physical abuse, and the story really works to detail and explain the various ways that this impacts him and prevents him from interacting with the world around him. This depiction was well-done, though I hope that any copies of this book will be very clear about the trigger warnings.
My largest qualm for the book was a plot hole that was left open for far too long. In the second chapter, we find out from Taissa that she was forced into the luck rune by her coach, and that no one would believe her when she told the truth. In the third chapter, we see Kion perform a simple Truth rune, which casts a spell in which the person is incapable of lying. It seems obvious that when presented with a conflict, officials would simply put a simple truth rune on both Taissa and her coach, and see what is real. Taissa later explains in the book why she was afraid to use the rune, which were legitimate reasons, but I wish that those motives were given earlier in the story. For most of the first half of the book, I was distracted by the obvious injustice of Taissa’s experience, when it seemed like there was an obvious solution that would have cleared everyone. If her reasons had been even briefly explained earlier, I might have been able to connect with the story more.
Altogether, this was an excellent sports romance. This book should not be marketed as a Romantasy book or a fantasy novel, as both feel like they have specific definitions in the cultural zeitgeist. This is a sports romance set with magical elements, and very well done sports romance at that. I’ll definitely have to go back to visit more of Kim’s writing, as this was very well thought out and enjoyable.
This book had one scene that was explicit, lasting a few paragraphs. It was not graphic in its description.
A big thank you to Del Rey for this advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Winged Game by Sophie Kim is a sports romance novel set in the magical towns of the United Kingdom. Our female main character, Taissa Cho, has been disgraced because of the use of an illicit rune that ruined her career. Her rival, Kion Locke, is our male protagonist, struggling with a team that in two years has plummeted to the bottom of the rankings. Kion and Taissa had a long rivalry before Locke turned her in for the illegal rune, but the hatred between these characters runs deep. Kion recruits Taissa to be on their team to save it from the brink of dissolvement, but the two end up forced into a fake-dating plot in order to keep Taissa’s involvement in the team a secret. In the process, they discover a conspiracy against their team and their sport, and spend their time trying to figure out the cause of all the chaos.
The Winged Game is advertised as being a Romantasy book with a sports romance element. However, I would argue against that classification. This book is a contemporary sports romance book, from the plot to the characters to the pacing to the texting to the tropes. This romance happens to be in a fantasy setting. Calling this Romantasy neglects the larger movements in the genre, specifically the larger-scale stakes and the epic fantasy settings. People expect certain things when you say “Romantasy” or even “fantasy”, and this book does not follow those rhythms. The Winged Game is a dual point of view sports romance centering on a fictional sport involving magical creatures, but it is, at its core, a sports romance.
The premise—sports romance with magical creatures—was very well done. The fake dating plot is fun, the characters have good banter, elements from throughout the book are woven well, with small details coming to have later impact. The magic system is well thought out and not overdone: witches and wizards are humans with magical powers draw runes in order to cast spells; bonding runes connect riders to their Winged; and other magical creatures exist as the “Unseelies”. Everything was easy to understand and consistent, which is always nice. The story also ends various chapters with the captions and comments from an Instagram-style social media, which lends itself to interesting discussion. Usually I really dislike when authors use things like texting or social media, but this was used effectively to prove a point.
The found family elements of this book were very solid, with our side characters having a lot of depth. The team has real growth both as a collective and as individuals. This book is advertised as a stand-alone, but the side characters could easily be spun into their own romances to create a series of interconnected romances.
The story also spent a lot of time talking about trauma, both abuse from the experience of a child and the online hate that we see so prevalent in our culture today. Because of her “cancellation”, Taissa receives an enormous amount of painful and damaging comments, which our author dives into the experience of notoriety in our modern world. We also have a character who was the victim of physical abuse, and the story really works to detail and explain the various ways that this impacts him and prevents him from interacting with the world around him. This depiction was well-done, though I hope that any copies of this book will be very clear about the trigger warnings.
My largest qualm for the book was a plot hole that was left open for far too long. In the second chapter, we find out from Taissa that she was forced into the luck rune by her coach, and that no one would believe her when she told the truth. In the third chapter, we see Kion perform a simple Truth rune, which casts a spell in which the person is incapable of lying. It seems obvious that when presented with a conflict, officials would simply put a simple truth rune on both Taissa and her coach, and see what is real. Taissa later explains in the book why she was afraid to use the rune, which were legitimate reasons, but I wish that those motives were given earlier in the story. For most of the first half of the book, I was distracted by the obvious injustice of Taissa’s experience, when it seemed like there was an obvious solution that would have cleared everyone. If her reasons had been even briefly explained earlier, I might have been able to connect with the story more.
Altogether, this was an excellent sports romance. This book should not be marketed as a Romantasy book or a fantasy novel, as both feel like they have specific definitions in the cultural zeitgeist. This is a sports romance set with magical elements, and very well done sports romance at that. I’ll definitely have to go back to visit more of Kim’s writing, as this was very well thought out and enjoyable.
This book had one scene that was explicit, lasting a few paragraphs. It was not graphic in its description.
A big thank you to Del Rey for this advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of an advance e-copy received from Netgalley
The Winged Game is your next addictive Sports Romantasy that'll keep you up all night.
While I am not fond of stories with various mystical creatures, monsters, and the like, it didn't bother me at all here. I had to search some of them up just to visualise what they look like, because it just helps me follow the story better. But overall, while it takes some time to get the grasp of the workings of the game and the world, it did create a fully immersive and original world. It also helped that there were references to our modern world (England, Scotland, some European countries, and modern technology).
The plot, pace, and writing style
Easy to follow (though I couldn't pronounce some names and terms out loud). As a non-native English language speaker, I think that the difficulty is a bit above average. The pacing was just perfect. There were not too many plots, and it helped that they were connected and not just scattered randomly throughout the story. The pace picked up with action-packed scenes and slowed down during more intimate and emotional scenes. There are lots of '(....)' in the characters' dialogues as inner thoughts. It was a bit too exaggerated, but it also added depth to said characters. I loved the interludes of social media-like posts/messages and the newspaper paragraphs. It breaks the (often serious) long chapters. Moreover, I was amazed by the originality of it. I mean, Sports romance x Romantasy? That just foregrounds an international bestseller! The magical system wasn't too difficult; it reminded me a lot of Shadowhunters.
The Characters
While the main characters are Kion and Taissa Cho, the team is like a family as a whole. Including their Wingeds. They bicker, joke, hate, and are at each other's throats, but in the end, they're a warm family. They all have their own traumatic pasts, and they share a common love for the game. I love their family-like dynamic and how we get glimpses of their distinct personalities. Some players were more in-depth than others, so I'd love to read more about the other players.
Taissa is hotheaded, stubborn, and doesn't let go easily. She WILL hold a grudge, especially against Kion, her former celebrity crush. Sophie Kim emphasizes her adorable Scottish accent. I admire her courage, loyalty, and tenacity while having a soft side. While she and Kion have much in common regarding their grumpy-like adamancy, Taissa is more playful and more of a jest. Kion is your typical 'big, strong, brooding, emotionally isolated, MMC who secretly is a softie'. He is immensely loyal to his friend, James, and of course, his teammates. As their captain, he has this authoritative aura. It's so cute to slowly see him recognise his feelings for Taissa and his attempts to navigate their digital world on social media.
Themes
There's serious trauma being addressed here, in addition to the use of drugs, stalking, abuse, and some explicit sexual content. There's also the use of strong language and curse words (in all languages), so I'd recommend it to a more mature audience who can handle these triggers.
How I envisioned/ What I loved
- Quidditch x Ever After High Dragon Games x HTTYD.
- Shadow Hunters.
- Found Family.
- Heated rivalry-to-puppy love.
- Ethnicity/LGBTQ+ representation.
- High-stakes games and adventure.
Thank you, Sophie Kim, NetGalley, and Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore, for this incredible e-arc! I hope it'll reach many readers.
The Winged Game is your next addictive Sports Romantasy that'll keep you up all night.
While I am not fond of stories with various mystical creatures, monsters, and the like, it didn't bother me at all here. I had to search some of them up just to visualise what they look like, because it just helps me follow the story better. But overall, while it takes some time to get the grasp of the workings of the game and the world, it did create a fully immersive and original world. It also helped that there were references to our modern world (England, Scotland, some European countries, and modern technology).
The plot, pace, and writing style
Easy to follow (though I couldn't pronounce some names and terms out loud). As a non-native English language speaker, I think that the difficulty is a bit above average. The pacing was just perfect. There were not too many plots, and it helped that they were connected and not just scattered randomly throughout the story. The pace picked up with action-packed scenes and slowed down during more intimate and emotional scenes. There are lots of '(....)' in the characters' dialogues as inner thoughts. It was a bit too exaggerated, but it also added depth to said characters. I loved the interludes of social media-like posts/messages and the newspaper paragraphs. It breaks the (often serious) long chapters. Moreover, I was amazed by the originality of it. I mean, Sports romance x Romantasy? That just foregrounds an international bestseller! The magical system wasn't too difficult; it reminded me a lot of Shadowhunters.
The Characters
While the main characters are Kion and Taissa Cho, the team is like a family as a whole. Including their Wingeds. They bicker, joke, hate, and are at each other's throats, but in the end, they're a warm family. They all have their own traumatic pasts, and they share a common love for the game. I love their family-like dynamic and how we get glimpses of their distinct personalities. Some players were more in-depth than others, so I'd love to read more about the other players.
Taissa is hotheaded, stubborn, and doesn't let go easily. She WILL hold a grudge, especially against Kion, her former celebrity crush. Sophie Kim emphasizes her adorable Scottish accent. I admire her courage, loyalty, and tenacity while having a soft side. While she and Kion have much in common regarding their grumpy-like adamancy, Taissa is more playful and more of a jest. Kion is your typical 'big, strong, brooding, emotionally isolated, MMC who secretly is a softie'. He is immensely loyal to his friend, James, and of course, his teammates. As their captain, he has this authoritative aura. It's so cute to slowly see him recognise his feelings for Taissa and his attempts to navigate their digital world on social media.
Themes
There's serious trauma being addressed here, in addition to the use of drugs, stalking, abuse, and some explicit sexual content. There's also the use of strong language and curse words (in all languages), so I'd recommend it to a more mature audience who can handle these triggers.
How I envisioned/ What I loved
- Quidditch x Ever After High Dragon Games x HTTYD.
- Shadow Hunters.
- Found Family.
- Heated rivalry-to-puppy love.
- Ethnicity/LGBTQ+ representation.
- High-stakes games and adventure.
Thank you, Sophie Kim, NetGalley, and Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore, for this incredible e-arc! I hope it'll reach many readers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was an INCREDIBLEEEEE start to my 2026 reading year. I am EXTREMLY selective with my 5-star ratings, and this book earned every bit of it. It had me giggling, squealing and kicking my feet at 4am. Absolute insanity but in the best way.
The Winged Game blends fantasy and sports romance in a world where Carriwitchet, a violent, high-stakes game played atop winged beasts, dominates the league. After a scandal destroys her career, former star player Taissa Cho is offered a chance at redemption, with one catch: she must team up with her rival, Kion Locke, and enter a fake relationship for the sake of public image. What begins as pure animosity slowly turns into something far more complicated.
The enemies-to-lovers here is top tier. These two are not mildly annoyed with each other. They hate each other. The tension is built on rivalry, pride, and grudging respect, and the slow burn is IMMACULATE. BRILLIANT. CHEF'S KISS.
The dual POV. Don't even get me started. The dual POV was EVERYTHING I wanted and more. Kion’s chapters completely had me in a chokehold. His dry humour, quiet devotion, and inability to use modern technology were genuinely hilarious and added so much charm. The fake dating moments were also a highlight, especially the photoshoot and media appearances, which balanced humour with delicious tension.
Beyond the romance, the worldbuilding was engaging and surprisingly heartfelt. The winged creatures (Cronus and Sansa my BABIES), the sport itself, and the found family all felt vivid and meaningful. I loooooved the found family element. The side characters felt distinct and memorable rather than blending into the background, which made the team dynamics and emotional beats land even harder.
My only nitpick was the pacing towardS the end, which felt a little awkward. The story slows down before suddenly speeding up, and the final stretch felt more rushed than I expected. I also went into this thinking it would be a trilogy, or even a duology. Given the slow-burn romance, where the characters don’t officially come together until after the eighty percent mark, I would have loved a second book to explore the aftermath of their relationship and see them navigate being an actual couple. That said, this is very much a personal preference. The book still works incredibly well as a standalone, and honestly, in a world full of trilogies and long-running series, it's refreshing. But, you know... I won't say no to a novella if that means we get to see more of #Kiossa #pookie #sweetheart 👀
This 5/5 star read has set the bar very high for the rest of the year.
Sophie Kim, I was not familiar with your game, but I absolutely am now. BRB, just going to add all her books to my never ending TBR list.
Thank you to Del Rey Random House Worlds and Netgalley for this ARC.
The Winged Game blends fantasy and sports romance in a world where Carriwitchet, a violent, high-stakes game played atop winged beasts, dominates the league. After a scandal destroys her career, former star player Taissa Cho is offered a chance at redemption, with one catch: she must team up with her rival, Kion Locke, and enter a fake relationship for the sake of public image. What begins as pure animosity slowly turns into something far more complicated.
The enemies-to-lovers here is top tier. These two are not mildly annoyed with each other. They hate each other. The tension is built on rivalry, pride, and grudging respect, and the slow burn is IMMACULATE. BRILLIANT. CHEF'S KISS.
The dual POV. Don't even get me started. The dual POV was EVERYTHING I wanted and more. Kion’s chapters completely had me in a chokehold. His dry humour, quiet devotion, and inability to use modern technology were genuinely hilarious and added so much charm. The fake dating moments were also a highlight, especially the photoshoot and media appearances, which balanced humour with delicious tension.
Beyond the romance, the worldbuilding was engaging and surprisingly heartfelt. The winged creatures (Cronus and Sansa my BABIES), the sport itself, and the found family all felt vivid and meaningful. I loooooved the found family element. The side characters felt distinct and memorable rather than blending into the background, which made the team dynamics and emotional beats land even harder.
My only nitpick was the pacing towardS the end, which felt a little awkward. The story slows down before suddenly speeding up, and the final stretch felt more rushed than I expected. I also went into this thinking it would be a trilogy, or even a duology. Given the slow-burn romance, where the characters don’t officially come together until after the eighty percent mark, I would have loved a second book to explore the aftermath of their relationship and see them navigate being an actual couple. That said, this is very much a personal preference. The book still works incredibly well as a standalone, and honestly, in a world full of trilogies and long-running series, it's refreshing. But, you know... I won't say no to a novella if that means we get to see more of #Kiossa #pookie #sweetheart 👀
This 5/5 star read has set the bar very high for the rest of the year.
Sophie Kim, I was not familiar with your game, but I absolutely am now. BRB, just going to add all her books to my never ending TBR list.
Thank you to Del Rey Random House Worlds and Netgalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4/5/5 stars, and thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
The book kicks off the story right in the middle of a Carriwitchet game, which I fell in love with instantly, what with the flying sentient steeds, weapons, stealing jewels, and daring-do and battles in the skies. It also immediately gets us into the heads of our main characters, Taissa Cho and Kion Locke and their deep rivalry, and it's a wonderful, exciting, heart-felt journey to see them clash and ultimately come together.
From the start, you can see that they're more alike than different; both hot-tempered, grumpy, vindictive, and hiding secret hurts and pain. You can also tell from the very beginning the sexual and romantic tension sizzling between the two of them, full of conflicting feelings of yearning, disgust, love, and long-time obsession.
Pretty much sums up their relationship for most of the book, but you do get a delicious scene at the beginning of Tarissa forcing Kion to kneel and beg her join his team after he was the one who basically got her labeled a cheater in the league two years ago. Their relationship builds slowly but surely, jam-packed with so much UST as they are forced to fake-date for good PR, so when they finally kiss (and more!), you will applaud.
But it's not just our two lovebirds that make this story, the entire team of the NCL Stymphs are loveable and endearing as well. Special shoutout to stoic maybe-assassin Orion and the mischievous Knox who are constantly bickering (and I would love to read a spin-off about the two of them at some point), but also Cronus, Tarissa's new, crotchety, elderly steed. I loved all her bonding moments with him, and getting to see Cronus grow as well was great.
As for why I took half a star off, the pacing at the end grows extremely hectic as the story tries to wrap up the overall mystery of why all the winged beasts are cursed and also be a standalone and give Tarissa and Kion their happy ending. Also, all of the Unseelie characters are revealed as secret softies? Even though they should be dark and dangerous still, in my opinion. Also would have loved to see more of Sansa, Tarissa's original wyvern.
Still, all in all, this was a book that I couldn't put down, and I loved the world-building and romance and highly recommend everyone to read this!
The book kicks off the story right in the middle of a Carriwitchet game, which I fell in love with instantly, what with the flying sentient steeds, weapons, stealing jewels, and daring-do and battles in the skies. It also immediately gets us into the heads of our main characters, Taissa Cho and Kion Locke and their deep rivalry, and it's a wonderful, exciting, heart-felt journey to see them clash and ultimately come together.
From the start, you can see that they're more alike than different; both hot-tempered, grumpy, vindictive, and hiding secret hurts and pain. You can also tell from the very beginning the sexual and romantic tension sizzling between the two of them, full of conflicting feelings of yearning, disgust, love, and long-time obsession.
"You're mine to hate."
Pretty much sums up their relationship for most of the book, but you do get a delicious scene at the beginning of Tarissa forcing Kion to kneel and beg her join his team after he was the one who basically got her labeled a cheater in the league two years ago. Their relationship builds slowly but surely, jam-packed with so much UST as they are forced to fake-date for good PR, so when they finally kiss (and more!), you will applaud.
But it's not just our two lovebirds that make this story, the entire team of the NCL Stymphs are loveable and endearing as well. Special shoutout to stoic maybe-assassin Orion and the mischievous Knox who are constantly bickering (and I would love to read a spin-off about the two of them at some point), but also Cronus, Tarissa's new, crotchety, elderly steed. I loved all her bonding moments with him, and getting to see Cronus grow as well was great.
As for why I took half a star off, the pacing at the end grows extremely hectic as the story tries to wrap up the overall mystery of why all the winged beasts are cursed and also be a standalone and give Tarissa and Kion their happy ending. Also, all of the Unseelie characters are revealed as secret softies? Even though they should be dark and dangerous still, in my opinion. Also would have loved to see more of Sansa, Tarissa's original wyvern.
Still, all in all, this was a book that I couldn't put down, and I loved the world-building and romance and highly recommend everyone to read this!
January 18, 2026
This was SO chaotic - mostly in a fun way? I was hesitant about the "romantasy sports" tagline and premise, that seemed like a lot of genres for one book, but I enjoyed Kim's other adult duology so I gave this a try. It did indeed feel like a rushed version of each genre with none of many tropes really having the time and space to develop. The "sport" was verrrrry confusing and quidditch-derivative and I'm hoping the final copy will at least include glossaries and diagrams. The world-building in general felt super confusing actually. It also felt very much like an American author trying way too hard to make their world British (the slang and colloquialisms were UNHINGED) -and if I picked up on that as an American reader I imagine it will really bother readers actually from the UK? Another thing that could probably be easily fixed for the final edit though.
So why did I give it 4.5 stars? Because it was FUN. The enemies to lovers was really well done, I love when an author can make me really dislike a character before they redeem them, let alone with BOTH MCs. The "winged" were super fun, and even though we crammed every single fantasy creature known to man into this world, I loved seeing the more obscure ones pop up! Kim's humor and banter are better than most, and our side characters were just as fun as our MCs. The moments where Kim pokes fun at the common tropes were my favorite, we love a self-aware girlie.
I stayed up late to finish it in one sitting and here I am writing the longest review I've written in forever, which I think says a lot about how much I enjoyed this. I really hope we get more books set in this world, I think Kim has something really special here - it just needs a bit more tightening and refining.
Thank you to Del Ray and Net Galley for the ARC!
So why did I give it 4.5 stars? Because it was FUN. The enemies to lovers was really well done, I love when an author can make me really dislike a character before they redeem them, let alone with BOTH MCs. The "winged" were super fun, and even though we crammed every single fantasy creature known to man into this world, I loved seeing the more obscure ones pop up! Kim's humor and banter are better than most, and our side characters were just as fun as our MCs. The moments where Kim pokes fun at the common tropes were my favorite, we love a self-aware girlie.
I stayed up late to finish it in one sitting and here I am writing the longest review I've written in forever, which I think says a lot about how much I enjoyed this. I really hope we get more books set in this world, I think Kim has something really special here - it just needs a bit more tightening and refining.
Thank you to Del Ray and Net Galley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A sports/romance/fantasy...a sporomantasy?! Sorry, it had to be done, I will see myself out.
I am a huge fan of The God and the Gumiho and it usually makes me nervous that this wasn't going to be a good- I have been burned many times in the past where authors subsequent books have not lived up to my expectations. Which now that I think of it, is very much a me problem and not the author's problem. Anyway, what I am very inarticulately saying is that I needn't be worried - I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
It has so much heart with a side of humour and absurdity that has me cackling like a witch while kicking my feet. I really enjoyed both Taissa and Kion'c characters and not only how their relationship developed but also with the team as a whole.
For my trope loving peeps, we have found family, touch her/him/my winged beast and die, hurt/comfort, grumpy and grumpier...I am sure that there are more but I just can't think of them right now.
The only reason that this wasn't a 5 star read for me was that I got lost in some of the colloquialisms. I am usually pretty good with slang from the UK, but this one has me scratching my head more often that I would have liked which kept pulling me out of the story. I eventually got the meaning from context but that was kinda annoying.
Overall, this was an absolute delight to read and the fact that I wanted to read it and not rewatch Heated Rivalry forthe millionth time is probably a good indicator that I would definitely recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley and Del Ray for the eARC and because I am now feeling the urge to rewatch Heated Rivalry again, I have left an honest review.
I am a huge fan of The God and the Gumiho and it usually makes me nervous that this wasn't going to be a good- I have been burned many times in the past where authors subsequent books have not lived up to my expectations. Which now that I think of it, is very much a me problem and not the author's problem. Anyway, what I am very inarticulately saying is that I needn't be worried - I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
It has so much heart with a side of humour and absurdity that has me cackling like a witch while kicking my feet. I really enjoyed both Taissa and Kion'c characters and not only how their relationship developed but also with the team as a whole.
For my trope loving peeps, we have found family, touch her/him/my winged beast and die, hurt/comfort, grumpy and grumpier...I am sure that there are more but I just can't think of them right now.
The only reason that this wasn't a 5 star read for me was that I got lost in some of the colloquialisms. I am usually pretty good with slang from the UK, but this one has me scratching my head more often that I would have liked which kept pulling me out of the story. I eventually got the meaning from context but that was kinda annoying.
Overall, this was an absolute delight to read and the fact that I wanted to read it and not rewatch Heated Rivalry forthe millionth time is probably a good indicator that I would definitely recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley and Del Ray for the eARC and because I am now feeling the urge to rewatch Heated Rivalry again, I have left an honest review.
January 23, 2026
I’m such a fan of Sophie Kim, she knows how to write a great fantasy with humor and romance! This one had me literally giggling and kicking my feet 🤭
Our main characters Taissa Cho and Kion Locke begin as true enemies and literal rivals competing against each other in a sport called Carriwitchet. This game is like a mix of rugby, quidditch, and dueling on flying magical beasts. Idk but it sounds fun! A little confusing in the beginning, but like with all new things you’ll eventually get it.
After being expelled from the game, Taissa lost it all. Her bond to her Wyvern Sansa, her team that she thought were her friends, and of course her career that she loved most of all. After spending two miserable years drowning in bills and hate from ex fans, Taissa is surprised with a visit from the very man she blames for her downfall.
Kion Locke shows up and begs her to join his team after they themselves have fell from the top to the very bottom, with the threat of dissolution breathing down their necks. Not one to miss her only chance to rejoin the game, Taissa agrees.
The fake dating and enemies to lovers is soooo well done with funny bickering and well placed tension, and it made so much sense for the story overall. The side characters, the magical animals, and our main characters are all fully fleshed out and so likable. The overall plot with the mystery, curses, romance, found family, and sports competition was very well balanced to me, and very enjoyable! Also surprise, New Sinsi was mentioned so this is the same world as her God and Gumiho duology. I hope she writes more in this world, I love it here!
5 ⭐️
🖤Thank you NetGalley for this eARC!
Our main characters Taissa Cho and Kion Locke begin as true enemies and literal rivals competing against each other in a sport called Carriwitchet. This game is like a mix of rugby, quidditch, and dueling on flying magical beasts. Idk but it sounds fun! A little confusing in the beginning, but like with all new things you’ll eventually get it.
After being expelled from the game, Taissa lost it all. Her bond to her Wyvern Sansa, her team that she thought were her friends, and of course her career that she loved most of all. After spending two miserable years drowning in bills and hate from ex fans, Taissa is surprised with a visit from the very man she blames for her downfall.
Kion Locke shows up and begs her to join his team after they themselves have fell from the top to the very bottom, with the threat of dissolution breathing down their necks. Not one to miss her only chance to rejoin the game, Taissa agrees.
The fake dating and enemies to lovers is soooo well done with funny bickering and well placed tension, and it made so much sense for the story overall. The side characters, the magical animals, and our main characters are all fully fleshed out and so likable. The overall plot with the mystery, curses, romance, found family, and sports competition was very well balanced to me, and very enjoyable! Also surprise, New Sinsi was mentioned so this is the same world as her God and Gumiho duology. I hope she writes more in this world, I love it here!
5 ⭐️
🖤Thank you NetGalley for this eARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2025
I was a bit hesitant getting into this book, concerned that it might read a little like some quidditch fan-fic, but I'd previously read and enjoyed several of the author's other novels, so I decided to try this one. Though there are slight similarities in the sport of carriwitchet with the game created for the Harry Potter series, there are also differences, but the key to set this novel apart from some derivative is the well-told plot with fully developed original (well, somewhat archetypical) characters. Taissa Cho and Kion Locke are set up for a cute enemies to lovers romance from the start, but the characters that make up the rest of the team and the story of the beasts that the players fly on in the game make this more than just a romance. The bromances, friendships that feel like a found family, and connections to the winged creatures balance out the relationships that have their own subplots. The main plot deals with trying to resurrect a once great team that has fallen in the ranks and save the league's winged creatures from mysterious ailments that threaten to end the league. It is interesting how the side stories get woven into this main plot and how the stories are brought together for an enjoyable ending...
I received access to this ARC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
I received access to this ARC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fantasy at its best. This is just SO MUCH FUN!There are just so many things this book draws on, all fitted perfectly together. I absolutely loved it.
Snark, humour, a mystery, mis-understandings, romance, second chances, romance, a sporting setting, social media, found family - the list goes on.
The characters are all different, all enjoyable. The main two:
We have Taissa Cho, disgraced Winged rider, who slips into her natural Scottish dialect when she’s angry. (I could clearly hear her highland island lilt as I read.) So much strength, so much hurt, so much to give. Her put downs of Kion are an absolute joy. We all have an inner teenage child, hopefully not silenced by our life’s experiences.
Kion her ‘numpty’ - her teenage heart throb, her destroyer, her Winged coach. Her what if….if he hadn’t totally broken her teenage heart.
Kion’s team are his family, even when he’s shouting at them. He will protect them, and maybe protect Taissa too. If he can finds his words.
And Carriwhicet, played on winged supernatural beasts. The sort of sport that sounds wonderfully violent, and that I’m thinking I don’t quite understand. To Taisso and Kion, it’s their freedom. Climb on, fall off, do it all again. Fly!
The winged are lovely too, especially Sasha, and Cronus. Just don’t say it to Cronus’ face - he bites.
Thank you to Michael Joseph, Penguin Random House and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
Snark, humour, a mystery, mis-understandings, romance, second chances, romance, a sporting setting, social media, found family - the list goes on.
The characters are all different, all enjoyable. The main two:
We have Taissa Cho, disgraced Winged rider, who slips into her natural Scottish dialect when she’s angry. (I could clearly hear her highland island lilt as I read.) So much strength, so much hurt, so much to give. Her put downs of Kion are an absolute joy. We all have an inner teenage child, hopefully not silenced by our life’s experiences.
Kion her ‘numpty’ - her teenage heart throb, her destroyer, her Winged coach. Her what if….if he hadn’t totally broken her teenage heart.
Kion’s team are his family, even when he’s shouting at them. He will protect them, and maybe protect Taissa too. If he can finds his words.
And Carriwhicet, played on winged supernatural beasts. The sort of sport that sounds wonderfully violent, and that I’m thinking I don’t quite understand. To Taisso and Kion, it’s their freedom. Climb on, fall off, do it all again. Fly!
The winged are lovely too, especially Sasha, and Cronus. Just don’t say it to Cronus’ face - he bites.
Thank you to Michael Joseph, Penguin Random House and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Taissa Cho lo perdió todo el día que fue expulsada del deporte que definía su vida. De promesa indiscutible del carriwitchet pasó a convertirse en un nombre incómodo, una figura señalada y olvidada. Vive lejos del ruido de los estadios, arrastrando una ausencia que duele más que la derrota y una rabia que nunca terminó de apagarse. El pasado parece cerrado hasta que Kion Locke reaparece, trayendo consigo una propuesta imposible y una herida que jamás cicatrizó.
Kion no llega buscando redención ni disculpas sinceras, sino supervivencia. Su equipo se desmorona, su legado está en ruinas y la única jugadora capaz de cambiarlo todo es precisamente la mujer a la que ayudó a destruir. La rivalidad que los unió en el aire vuelve a encenderse en tierra firme, cargada de reproches, orgullo y una tensión que nunca fue solo odio.
Aceptar significaría regresar al lugar donde Taissa fue castigada, enfrentarse a un sistema que nunca fue justo y decidir si todavía cree en sí misma cuando nadie más lo hace. Rechazarla sería renunciar para siempre a lo único que la hacía sentir viva. El juego vuelve a comenzar, pero esta vez el riesgo no está solo en el campo.
__
Me cayo mal James.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Kion no llega buscando redención ni disculpas sinceras, sino supervivencia. Su equipo se desmorona, su legado está en ruinas y la única jugadora capaz de cambiarlo todo es precisamente la mujer a la que ayudó a destruir. La rivalidad que los unió en el aire vuelve a encenderse en tierra firme, cargada de reproches, orgullo y una tensión que nunca fue solo odio.
Aceptar significaría regresar al lugar donde Taissa fue castigada, enfrentarse a un sistema que nunca fue justo y decidir si todavía cree en sí misma cuando nadie más lo hace. Rechazarla sería renunciar para siempre a lo único que la hacía sentir viva. El juego vuelve a comenzar, pero esta vez el riesgo no está solo en el campo.
__
Me cayo mal James.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
December 30, 2025
I hate being that person who gives the first bad review, but I just couldn’t grasp this book. I was so confused I stopped at the 40% mark
I would have liked an intro where the rules for this game are presented and what the field looks like. All I could picture was quidditch on a soccer field where the snitch is a gemstone and the brooms are giant birds. That is it. Each player has a position, but I don’t know how that position plays a role in the game. I just couldn’t picture any of this accurately and I felt so lost.
Where do those glyphs stem from? How does one get their qly? I needed some background info, because this felt like a reimagining of The Mortal Instruments. They draw in themselves and get these powers, except here they can erase them.
By the point I stopped, I couldn’t feel any chemistry between Kion and Taissa. They truly disliked each other. Even when they kissed it was just flat because they didn’t enjoy it and were faking it. And the weird jumping on the bed scene? Uh, mid-twenty and early thirties folks wouldn’t do this. It was sort of childish.
I was so excited for this book, but between confusion and too many similarities between other novels, I couldn’t see it to the end.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
I would have liked an intro where the rules for this game are presented and what the field looks like. All I could picture was quidditch on a soccer field where the snitch is a gemstone and the brooms are giant birds. That is it. Each player has a position, but I don’t know how that position plays a role in the game. I just couldn’t picture any of this accurately and I felt so lost.
Where do those glyphs stem from? How does one get their qly? I needed some background info, because this felt like a reimagining of The Mortal Instruments. They draw in themselves and get these powers, except here they can erase them.
By the point I stopped, I couldn’t feel any chemistry between Kion and Taissa. They truly disliked each other. Even when they kissed it was just flat because they didn’t enjoy it and were faking it. And the weird jumping on the bed scene? Uh, mid-twenty and early thirties folks wouldn’t do this. It was sort of childish.
I was so excited for this book, but between confusion and too many similarities between other novels, I couldn’t see it to the end.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Firstly, MCs over 18 which is a huge pull for me, our MMC is 30 and our FMC is 24
It's set in the UK so there is a lot of slang that was kind of jarring to me as a none UKer, but nothing I couldn't rub 2 brain cells together to figure out what it means. (my favorite is Bahoochie and jobbie btw)
Since it's an ARC, one thing I do hope for the finished copy is that they include a glossary or diagram of the players and their rolls. I did write it down myself to reference, but I feel like it would be handy to have that to flip to, as well as one for all the glyphs that they talk about/use.
This was the definition of slow burn and I loved it, I'm also very grateful that this is a standalone, in a sea of series, it was a breath of fresh air to be done when the book closed.
The pacing was decent, I didn't feel like things were dragging at all, there is a lot of humor throughout to kind of break up the seriousness of the book.
Mute representation is also in the book with Taissa actually committing to and learning BSL! love that it wasn't used as a plot device and felt like it actually mattered.
I'd give it a 2 spice rating
Potential triggers:
It's set in the UK so there is a lot of slang that was kind of jarring to me as a none UKer, but nothing I couldn't rub 2 brain cells together to figure out what it means. (my favorite is Bahoochie and jobbie btw)
Since it's an ARC, one thing I do hope for the finished copy is that they include a glossary or diagram of the players and their rolls. I did write it down myself to reference, but I feel like it would be handy to have that to flip to, as well as one for all the glyphs that they talk about/use.
This was the definition of slow burn and I loved it, I'm also very grateful that this is a standalone, in a sea of series, it was a breath of fresh air to be done when the book closed.
The pacing was decent, I didn't feel like things were dragging at all, there is a lot of humor throughout to kind of break up the seriousness of the book.
Mute representation is also in the book with Taissa actually committing to and learning BSL! love that it wasn't used as a plot device and felt like it actually mattered.
I'd give it a 2 spice rating
Potential triggers:
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Just finished my first 5-star read of 2026, WE CHEERED!!!
Godddd, where do I begin? I absolutely obsessed with everything about this book, the lore, the twists, the tensions, the witty banters, EVERYTHING.
This is how you write an ultimate top-tier 100% rivals-to-lovers who quite literally want to strangle each other (love that for them). It wasn’t merely dislike or annoyance, they LOATHE each other and dagger-to-the-throat is definitely their love language. Their silly banters and fake dating situation got me squealing and giggling at midnight.
The world building was so well-written and the pacing was VERY page-turning. I love the telepathic link and the interludes, I swear I couldn’t stop laughing I think I woke up the entire neighborhood.
The chaotic found family is just so heartwarming and it’s giving cozy atmosphere. I just love all of them, but especially Cronus, you ancient grump, you’re so dear to me.
I’m officially a Taissa #1 defender, watch me fight @dryadmama52 #teamkiossa #savepicture #deletecomment
OH MY GOD AND THE FATE’S THREAD CRUMBS??? JAW-DROPPING.
════════════════════════
Thank you to Del Rey and NetGalley for the ARC!
Godddd, where do I begin? I absolutely obsessed with everything about this book, the lore, the twists, the tensions, the witty banters, EVERYTHING.
This is how you write an ultimate top-tier 100% rivals-to-lovers who quite literally want to strangle each other (love that for them). It wasn’t merely dislike or annoyance, they LOATHE each other and dagger-to-the-throat is definitely their love language. Their silly banters and fake dating situation got me squealing and giggling at midnight.
The world building was so well-written and the pacing was VERY page-turning. I love the telepathic link and the interludes, I swear I couldn’t stop laughing I think I woke up the entire neighborhood.
The chaotic found family is just so heartwarming and it’s giving cozy atmosphere. I just love all of them, but especially Cronus, you ancient grump, you’re so dear to me.
I’m officially a Taissa #1 defender, watch me fight @dryadmama52 #teamkiossa #savepicture #deletecomment
OH MY GOD AND THE FATE’S THREAD CRUMBS??? JAW-DROPPING.
════════════════════════
Thank you to Del Rey and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
You know, reading this was so refreshing! Has anyone watched Blue Lock, the sports anime? Or maybe read The Foxhole Court? It kind of gave those vibes! I have read sports romances before, but never in a fantasy setting, and this was SO FUN.
Another wonderful thing about this story is that you DO get enemies to lovers. The prologue sets up how they start hating each other -- set in Kion's POV, we see how he exposes Taissa for something illegal that she did, and how it adversely impacts her career moving forward. Throughout the book, the two of them circle and go at each other like ornery badgers, lol! It's exhilarating to watch their hate turn to romance and yearning. The banter was also VERY amusing!
Anyway, Sophie Kim has explored so many new avenues since The Last of the Talons, which is one of my favourite books ever! I can't wait to read more from her; she is so talented and creative. Coming up with a new fictional sport -- and conjuring rules for it -- is impressive. If you enjoy sports romances, fake dating, and enemies-to-lovers, I highly recommend this! What an exciting smorgasbord of tropes! Thank you to the publisher (Del Rey) and Netgalley for the widget.
Another wonderful thing about this story is that you DO get enemies to lovers. The prologue sets up how they start hating each other -- set in Kion's POV, we see how he exposes Taissa for something illegal that she did, and how it adversely impacts her career moving forward. Throughout the book, the two of them circle and go at each other like ornery badgers, lol! It's exhilarating to watch their hate turn to romance and yearning. The banter was also VERY amusing!
Anyway, Sophie Kim has explored so many new avenues since The Last of the Talons, which is one of my favourite books ever! I can't wait to read more from her; she is so talented and creative. Coming up with a new fictional sport -- and conjuring rules for it -- is impressive. If you enjoy sports romances, fake dating, and enemies-to-lovers, I highly recommend this! What an exciting smorgasbord of tropes! Thank you to the publisher (Del Rey) and Netgalley for the widget.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What can I say ? Sophie Kim owns my heart at that point !
I devoured The Winged Game, just like I devoured the Fate's Threads Duology ! And I am so happy that Sophie went back to this wonderful world of urban fantasy and magic !
So let me tell you : you're not ready for the romance, or the found family, or the thrills of the games !
Carriwitchet is such a cool and interesting game and I was so invested in the matches that I had the impression I was watching it on TV. After tackling Korean mythology in her previous duology, Sophie takes an interest in Scottish/Irish mythology and I loved it. So many creatures and so much magic ! I was a bit afraid of the plot going everywhere, but everything wraps nicely in the end
!
What really stood out to me though was the characters, not only our main couple but the whole team had me smiling and kicking my feet !
Kion and Taissa were the cherry on the cake really, who knew rivals to lovers could be so cute and funny !
I am kind of sad that it's over and would love more of those characters ! It's confirmed, Sophie Kim is one of my favourite authors !
I devoured The Winged Game, just like I devoured the Fate's Threads Duology ! And I am so happy that Sophie went back to this wonderful world of urban fantasy and magic !
So let me tell you : you're not ready for the romance, or the found family, or the thrills of the games !
Carriwitchet is such a cool and interesting game and I was so invested in the matches that I had the impression I was watching it on TV. After tackling Korean mythology in her previous duology, Sophie takes an interest in Scottish/Irish mythology and I loved it. So many creatures and so much magic ! I was a bit afraid of the plot going everywhere, but everything wraps nicely in the end
!
What really stood out to me though was the characters, not only our main couple but the whole team had me smiling and kicking my feet !
Kion and Taissa were the cherry on the cake really, who knew rivals to lovers could be so cute and funny !
I am kind of sad that it's over and would love more of those characters ! It's confirmed, Sophie Kim is one of my favourite authors !
January 15, 2026
Sophie Kim is an incredible wordsmith, this book invoked so much emotion simply from the way Sophie describes interactions, feelings, and all.
I absolutely LOVED the concept of this story, the game of carriwitchet sounds incredible, it almost reminded me of Quidditch but it’s unique in its own right, I loved the idea of many mythical creatures being able to participate and play against each other, it felt really inclusive and accessible for all.
The rivalry between Taissa and Kion was delicious, I loved how their relationship blossomed from fake dating into something so raw and real, and the friendships between the Stymphs became a true family and how they overcame their curses and personal challenges together - was incredible.
I couldn’t put this book down. Although I had to as it’s thicccc but I could have happily read it from cover to cover in one sitting, I loved every minute.
I absolutely LOVED the concept of this story, the game of carriwitchet sounds incredible, it almost reminded me of Quidditch but it’s unique in its own right, I loved the idea of many mythical creatures being able to participate and play against each other, it felt really inclusive and accessible for all.
The rivalry between Taissa and Kion was delicious, I loved how their relationship blossomed from fake dating into something so raw and real, and the friendships between the Stymphs became a true family and how they overcame their curses and personal challenges together - was incredible.
I couldn’t put this book down. Although I had to as it’s thicccc but I could have happily read it from cover to cover in one sitting, I loved every minute.
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