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Just a Guy With a Goal #3
Officially Yours
She’s not a woman. She’s an official.
At least, that’s what Lucca tells himself every time Maggie hands him another yellow card.
Lucca Cruz—Brazilian, Red Tail soccer star, chronic flirt, and all-around menace to referees—has never gotten along with Maggie, the one official immune to his charm and allergic to his attitude.
Until the day he’s forced to mentor her little league soccer team. He quickly realizes he doesn’t dislike Maggie at all. He just doesn’t know her.
And now that he’s starting to–he’s falling fast.
Maggie McCrae, on the other hand, feels absolutely nothing admirable for Lucca. He’s cocky, dramatic, impossible, and easily her least favorite soccer player in the league.
So when Lucca suddenly starts being… nice, she’s suspicious. When she finds herself enjoying his attention? She’s alarmed.
Because this can’t happen.
Maggie is a referee. Lucca is a player. It’s unethical, forbidden, and a career-ending mistake. She already gave up her dream once—walking away from the U.S. Women’s National Team. She won’t do it again.
But Lucca is persistent. And surprisingly sweet. He’s great with her nephew, sentimental over his grandmother, and swears he only wants to be friends.
Which would be fine… if only Maggie believed him.
At least, that’s what Lucca tells himself every time Maggie hands him another yellow card.
Lucca Cruz—Brazilian, Red Tail soccer star, chronic flirt, and all-around menace to referees—has never gotten along with Maggie, the one official immune to his charm and allergic to his attitude.
Until the day he’s forced to mentor her little league soccer team. He quickly realizes he doesn’t dislike Maggie at all. He just doesn’t know her.
And now that he’s starting to–he’s falling fast.
Maggie McCrae, on the other hand, feels absolutely nothing admirable for Lucca. He’s cocky, dramatic, impossible, and easily her least favorite soccer player in the league.
So when Lucca suddenly starts being… nice, she’s suspicious. When she finds herself enjoying his attention? She’s alarmed.
Because this can’t happen.
Maggie is a referee. Lucca is a player. It’s unethical, forbidden, and a career-ending mistake. She already gave up her dream once—walking away from the U.S. Women’s National Team. She won’t do it again.
But Lucca is persistent. And surprisingly sweet. He’s great with her nephew, sentimental over his grandmother, and swears he only wants to be friends.
Which would be fine… if only Maggie believed him.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2026
43 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Review of advance copy
From the moment I read the title of this book, I knew it was bound to be good, but with Jen Atkinson at the helm, it was fantastic! A player and a ref, what could possibly go wrong, but what could possibly go so right too?!
Lucca Cruz has been a heavy hitting side characters for the series this far and now with the spotlight this man truly shines but in a different way. Lucca seems like your stereotypical attractive athlete with an ego the size of the moon and ever a smooth talker with all the ladies, but he’s so much more than that! He grew up in Brazil with his grandmother and only after working his tail off, pun not intended, did he make the right connections to come to the US. It’s his love for her that allows himself to connect with his FMC on a deeper level (only when she lets him)! I love the closeness he has with his teammates and their women, these friendships are very important to him, and it shows by how much he relies on them off the field.
Maggie McCrae is a tough ref on the field, but off the field she’s a loyal sister, beloved daughter and protective aunt to Wyatt. She has spent the last few years making sacrifices to be there for the ones she loves the most. While not every player or even fan may see eye to eye with her calls, she doesn’t waiver, even if you flirt with her or not. Maggie’s sacrifice doesn’t go unnoticed by her parents and sister, but Wyatt knows nothing but the unfailing love and unrivaled dedication. She’s also obsessed with cats which is rather adorable, although I personally prefer dogs! Despite all the crazy circumstances and challenges that she faces, the woman deserves to be loved by the right person, even if he comes across as an over-the-top flirt (and is Brazilian)!
Loved this story from start to finish. It’s the simplest of moments that I found the most endearing. It’s amazing of how little I knew about soccer before Jen started writing these and now, I feel like I can appreciate the game a little bit more too! Found family is huge in Jen’s books and I’m here for it every time! Job well done in making me grin from ear to ear and adding another beautiful book to my shelves!
Lucca Cruz has been a heavy hitting side characters for the series this far and now with the spotlight this man truly shines but in a different way. Lucca seems like your stereotypical attractive athlete with an ego the size of the moon and ever a smooth talker with all the ladies, but he’s so much more than that! He grew up in Brazil with his grandmother and only after working his tail off, pun not intended, did he make the right connections to come to the US. It’s his love for her that allows himself to connect with his FMC on a deeper level (only when she lets him)! I love the closeness he has with his teammates and their women, these friendships are very important to him, and it shows by how much he relies on them off the field.
Maggie McCrae is a tough ref on the field, but off the field she’s a loyal sister, beloved daughter and protective aunt to Wyatt. She has spent the last few years making sacrifices to be there for the ones she loves the most. While not every player or even fan may see eye to eye with her calls, she doesn’t waiver, even if you flirt with her or not. Maggie’s sacrifice doesn’t go unnoticed by her parents and sister, but Wyatt knows nothing but the unfailing love and unrivaled dedication. She’s also obsessed with cats which is rather adorable, although I personally prefer dogs! Despite all the crazy circumstances and challenges that she faces, the woman deserves to be loved by the right person, even if he comes across as an over-the-top flirt (and is Brazilian)!
Loved this story from start to finish. It’s the simplest of moments that I found the most endearing. It’s amazing of how little I knew about soccer before Jen started writing these and now, I feel like I can appreciate the game a little bit more too! Found family is huge in Jen’s books and I’m here for it every time! Job well done in making me grin from ear to ear and adding another beautiful book to my shelves!
March 4, 2026
When the enemies-to-lovers trope has you smiling from ear to ear throughout because the chemistry is ever present but the banter never stops. Professional soccer player Lucca has had it with the spunky female referee, Maggie. However, many circumstances outside the arena bring them together where they get to know each other more…and suddenly they have to keep their relationship secret so as to not affect their careers. This was a quick, sweet closed-door, slow romance with two characters with strong personalities that just work!
Thanks to the author for the eARC
Thanks to the author for the eARC
March 5, 2026
I loved Lucca and Maggie! They are classic enemies to lovers and almost a workplace romance. She can't date him because it would compromise her job.
He falls first and falls hard and for a ladies man like Lucca he had no idea what to do. I love all the advice he gets from his teammates (and their wives). I also loved how her had her family help him out! (kisses only)
This is the third book in a series, but can be read as a standalone.
He falls first and falls hard and for a ladies man like Lucca he had no idea what to do. I love all the advice he gets from his teammates (and their wives). I also loved how her had her family help him out! (kisses only)
This is the third book in a series, but can be read as a standalone.
February 28, 2026
I started this series out of order (I read Green Card Christmas first), but jumping into Lucca’s story didn’t ruin a thing for me. I first met him while he was helping Roman navigate his relationship with Stella — something he absolutely does not live down — so it was fun finally getting his full story.
Seeing Lucca’s backstory helped me understand why he is the way he is. What stood out most to me was the found family he’s built with his teammates and their wives and girlfriends. He moves between those groups constantly — for advice, for chaos, for support — because he knows he cannot do life alone. That dynamic added so much heart and humor to the story and really showed how deeply connected they all are.
I also loved the McRae family. Wyatt was such a cute supporting character. I loved all his scenes — how he’s fully a kid but also completely comfortable around adults, casually saying things that make you pause and laugh. Maggie’s parents were great too — her dad especially had some hilarious moments that balanced out heavier themes beautifully.
Maggie carries the weight of being the responsible big sister, and that felt very real. She gives so much of herself to everyone around her, and seeing the support she receives in return was absolutely perfect. I loved that Lucca sees it too and acknowledges the burden she’s been carrying.
Her internal conflict toward the end was so well done. It wasn’t dramatic for the sake of drama — it showed her integrity. The way she wrestles with what’s right versus what she wants made her feel strong and grounded.
She’s also a boss referee, which adds forbidden-romance tension since Lucca is a player. Watching them shift from enemies to more was so fun because Maggie fights it hard, while Lucca is just… yearning. He doesn’t fully understand what’s happening — he just knows he can’t get enough of her.
The little league moment where she surprises him was such a turning point. And I loved the scene where he publicly supports her — not because she couldn’t handle herself, but because he chooses to stand beside her.
This book touches on recovery from drugs and alcohol, and I thought it was handled with so much grace. It’s a hard topic, but it felt honest and reflective of real life without becoming overwhelming.
Her relationship with Lindy could have been complicated, but I loved that it wasn’t. And as an aunt with no kids of my own yet, the way this story acknowledged that an aunt can love a child deeply and show up like a parent really resonated with me.
There were so many moments that made me laugh and others that gave me all the feels (the hammock scene especially). When Maggie said the title, I had to physically stop myself from squealing. So perfect.
Nanners? Adorable.
This book even had me looking up soccer tricks and listening to a Brazilian accent just so I could picture Lucca better — and honestly, it makes me want to watch soccer now.
If you love:
⚽ enemies to more
⚽ sports romance
⚽ found family
⚽ strong heroine + devoted hero
⚽ humor with heart
You’ll want this one.
I received an ARC, but all opinions are my own.
Seeing Lucca’s backstory helped me understand why he is the way he is. What stood out most to me was the found family he’s built with his teammates and their wives and girlfriends. He moves between those groups constantly — for advice, for chaos, for support — because he knows he cannot do life alone. That dynamic added so much heart and humor to the story and really showed how deeply connected they all are.
I also loved the McRae family. Wyatt was such a cute supporting character. I loved all his scenes — how he’s fully a kid but also completely comfortable around adults, casually saying things that make you pause and laugh. Maggie’s parents were great too — her dad especially had some hilarious moments that balanced out heavier themes beautifully.
Maggie carries the weight of being the responsible big sister, and that felt very real. She gives so much of herself to everyone around her, and seeing the support she receives in return was absolutely perfect. I loved that Lucca sees it too and acknowledges the burden she’s been carrying.
Her internal conflict toward the end was so well done. It wasn’t dramatic for the sake of drama — it showed her integrity. The way she wrestles with what’s right versus what she wants made her feel strong and grounded.
She’s also a boss referee, which adds forbidden-romance tension since Lucca is a player. Watching them shift from enemies to more was so fun because Maggie fights it hard, while Lucca is just… yearning. He doesn’t fully understand what’s happening — he just knows he can’t get enough of her.
The little league moment where she surprises him was such a turning point. And I loved the scene where he publicly supports her — not because she couldn’t handle herself, but because he chooses to stand beside her.
This book touches on recovery from drugs and alcohol, and I thought it was handled with so much grace. It’s a hard topic, but it felt honest and reflective of real life without becoming overwhelming.
Her relationship with Lindy could have been complicated, but I loved that it wasn’t. And as an aunt with no kids of my own yet, the way this story acknowledged that an aunt can love a child deeply and show up like a parent really resonated with me.
There were so many moments that made me laugh and others that gave me all the feels (the hammock scene especially). When Maggie said the title, I had to physically stop myself from squealing. So perfect.
Nanners? Adorable.
This book even had me looking up soccer tricks and listening to a Brazilian accent just so I could picture Lucca better — and honestly, it makes me want to watch soccer now.
If you love:
⚽ enemies to more
⚽ sports romance
⚽ found family
⚽ strong heroine + devoted hero
⚽ humor with heart
You’ll want this one.
I received an ARC, but all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Officially Yours
(Just a Guy With a Girl Book 3)
by: Jen Atkinson
@authorjenatkinson
••I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
~She’s not a woman. She’s an official. At least, that’s what Lucca tells himself every time Maggie hands him another yellow card…
-My friends, Officially Yours, is such a delightful enemies to more romcom! It is filled so wonderfully with both humor and heart! In between are layers of emotional depth and dear character growth. I thoroughly enjoyed the endearing characters, the witty back and forth banter, the sparkling chemistry, the sweet found family, and watching characters not only grow but, blossom along the way throughout! But let me tell you, that what I loved most was seeing characters not let the past take over control. I loved seeing characters be able to find themselves, in who they really are, believing that they are enough, that they are worth all the love! This dear story shows that it’s love, is the dear thread that beautifully and powerfully stitches this story together, that molds characters, and opens the door to more possibilities, and has the ability to show dear characters that they are worth it, that they are enough, and that they are worth it all. There is so much more beneath being “just a soccer player,” or “just a tough soccer official.”
…oh so much more! Of course, this is a story worth reading! 💯🙌🏻⚽️📚❤️
•Content: While this book doesn’t contain any scene with an intoxicated person, it does discuss alcoholism
and the effects that it can have on a person and family. No language, no danger; kisses only.
Clean, Closed-Door!
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
#officiallyyours
#justaguywirhagirl
#authorjenatkinson
#allaboutthebestreads
(Just a Guy With a Girl Book 3)
by: Jen Atkinson
@authorjenatkinson
••I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
~She’s not a woman. She’s an official. At least, that’s what Lucca tells himself every time Maggie hands him another yellow card…
-My friends, Officially Yours, is such a delightful enemies to more romcom! It is filled so wonderfully with both humor and heart! In between are layers of emotional depth and dear character growth. I thoroughly enjoyed the endearing characters, the witty back and forth banter, the sparkling chemistry, the sweet found family, and watching characters not only grow but, blossom along the way throughout! But let me tell you, that what I loved most was seeing characters not let the past take over control. I loved seeing characters be able to find themselves, in who they really are, believing that they are enough, that they are worth all the love! This dear story shows that it’s love, is the dear thread that beautifully and powerfully stitches this story together, that molds characters, and opens the door to more possibilities, and has the ability to show dear characters that they are worth it, that they are enough, and that they are worth it all. There is so much more beneath being “just a soccer player,” or “just a tough soccer official.”
…oh so much more! Of course, this is a story worth reading! 💯🙌🏻⚽️📚❤️
•Content: While this book doesn’t contain any scene with an intoxicated person, it does discuss alcoholism
and the effects that it can have on a person and family. No language, no danger; kisses only.
Clean, Closed-Door!
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
#officiallyyours
#justaguywirhagirl
#authorjenatkinson
#allaboutthebestreads
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Friendship is not what I want with Maggie. She’s like sight for the blind. I’ve seen the light. I can’t take that back. I don’t want to.”
I have been loving Jen Atkinson‘s Just a Guy With a Goal series so far, and I think “Officially Yours“ might just be my new favorite! I was hooked from Paige one and couldn’t wipe the smile off my face throughout the majority of the book!
I freaking loved Luca with his relentless, flirting, banter, and antics! He was literally too charming for his own good! I loved watching him and Maggie go from loathing each other to having some serious chemistry!
Maggie was adorable! It was adorable how she thought she could resist the charms of Lucca Cruz. 😏 I completely admired her love and devotion to Wyatt, Lindy, and their family!
This really was such a cute and fun book, you don’t want to miss it!
Favorite quotes:
“Honey and vinegar. That’s what Roman said. Does he really think I give her vinegar? I am all honey, all the time. I wink at the woman just to prove it. Of the two of us, I’m not vinegar. But honey doesn’t work on McCrae—never has. Her brows lower, and before I can reach center field, she’s scowling at me in disgust.”
“You surprised me,” he says. “That’s all. I judged a book by its cover. And I regret it. So, now I’d like to read it.”
“I can’t help it if I’m suave.” I shrug and give her what is sure to be a suave smile. “Charm is like breathing for me. I can’t turn it off.”
“I am turning into a caveman. And I am much too good-looking to be a caveman.”
I have been loving Jen Atkinson‘s Just a Guy With a Goal series so far, and I think “Officially Yours“ might just be my new favorite! I was hooked from Paige one and couldn’t wipe the smile off my face throughout the majority of the book!
I freaking loved Luca with his relentless, flirting, banter, and antics! He was literally too charming for his own good! I loved watching him and Maggie go from loathing each other to having some serious chemistry!
Maggie was adorable! It was adorable how she thought she could resist the charms of Lucca Cruz. 😏 I completely admired her love and devotion to Wyatt, Lindy, and their family!
This really was such a cute and fun book, you don’t want to miss it!
Favorite quotes:
“Honey and vinegar. That’s what Roman said. Does he really think I give her vinegar? I am all honey, all the time. I wink at the woman just to prove it. Of the two of us, I’m not vinegar. But honey doesn’t work on McCrae—never has. Her brows lower, and before I can reach center field, she’s scowling at me in disgust.”
“You surprised me,” he says. “That’s all. I judged a book by its cover. And I regret it. So, now I’d like to read it.”
“I can’t help it if I’m suave.” I shrug and give her what is sure to be a suave smile. “Charm is like breathing for me. I can’t turn it off.”
“I am turning into a caveman. And I am much too good-looking to be a caveman.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Margaret McCrae is a baddie soccer referee who makes no allowances for cocky players who like playing fast and loose—especially Lucca Cruz. The two of them are regularly facing off in a yellow-card showdown. Tired of being targeted by the heartless woman, Lucca decides to try a new tactic. There isn’t a woman in his life he hasn’t yet been able to charm.
𝙃𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙. 𝘿𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙄 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧?
𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮, 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙩.
𝙊𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙤𝙛 𝙪𝙨, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠 𝙤𝙣 𝙈𝙘𝘾𝙧𝙖𝙚—𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙨. 𝙃𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙙, 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙬𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙜𝙪𝙨𝙩.
Do you like the he-falls-first trope? If so, you’ll love this book. Lucca falls hard. He relentlessly pursues Maggie who tries and tries to place boundaries. She can’t have any kind of relationship with a player.
I love all the complexity of this enemies-to-more, forbidden romance, sports romcom. I loved how Maggie is so much more than the tough soccer official. I love how reformed-playboy Lucca gently persists every time Maggie shoots him down. And I love how she really can’t resist him.
“𝙃𝙚’𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙪𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨. 𝙃𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙜𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚.”
“𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙚𝙩—” 𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙨.
“𝙒𝙚’𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙈𝙖𝙜𝙜𝙞𝙚.” 𝘼 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙍𝙤𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙚’𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙘𝙮𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚. “𝙃𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝.”
𝙄 𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙖 𝙡𝙖𝙪𝙜𝙝. “𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙬𝙚’𝙧𝙚—”
“𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨?” 𝙁𝙧𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙨.
“𝙒𝙚 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬.” 𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙨.
��𝙤𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙪𝙚. “𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙣.”
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this fantastic book.
𝙃𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧. 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙. 𝘿𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙄 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧?
𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮, 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙩.
𝙊𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙤𝙛 𝙪𝙨, 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙧. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠 𝙤𝙣 𝙈𝙘𝘾𝙧𝙖𝙚—𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙨. 𝙃𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙡𝙙, 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙬𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙜𝙪𝙨𝙩.
Do you like the he-falls-first trope? If so, you’ll love this book. Lucca falls hard. He relentlessly pursues Maggie who tries and tries to place boundaries. She can’t have any kind of relationship with a player.
I love all the complexity of this enemies-to-more, forbidden romance, sports romcom. I loved how Maggie is so much more than the tough soccer official. I love how reformed-playboy Lucca gently persists every time Maggie shoots him down. And I love how she really can’t resist him.
“𝙃𝙚’𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙪𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨. 𝙃𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙜𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚.”
“𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙚𝙩—” 𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙨.
“𝙒𝙚’𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙈𝙖𝙜𝙜𝙞𝙚.” 𝘼 𝙨𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙍𝙤𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙚’𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙘𝙮𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚. “𝙃𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝.”
𝙄 𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙖 𝙡𝙖𝙪𝙜𝙝. “𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙬𝙚’𝙧𝙚—”
“𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨?” 𝙁𝙧𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙨.
“𝙒𝙚 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬.” 𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙨.
��𝙤𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙪𝙚. “𝙁𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙣.”
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this fantastic book.
March 4, 2026
I thought this book was so cute! I love how Maggie and Lucca come together even though they definitely have some fun enemies to lovers vibe. They were both such loyal and loving people, and it was sweet to see them be for each other instead of against each other.
I really liked Lucca! He has such golden retriever energy, and even though he seemed like a bit of a playboy, he also truly cared for the people he loved. I thought his relationship with the girlfriends on the team were so cute too! He had such great connections with everyone on the team, and it was fun to see them come together and support him.
I liked Maggie from the start! She was such a loyal and hardworking person, and I love how she cared for her family. She had sacrificed so much for them, and I like how realistic the family relationships were. Her family was genuinely appreciative of what she had done for them, and they wanted her to move forward. Yet at the same time they were also trying to help and pull their own weight.
I thought her relationship with Lucca was adorable! He really showed up for her and supported her. Both of them were willing to sacrifice for the other person, and their banter was so fun. They definitely made each other better as they helped push each other to move forward and not get stuck in the past. This is an adorable closed door romance perfect for sports fan!
I received an ARC.
I really liked Lucca! He has such golden retriever energy, and even though he seemed like a bit of a playboy, he also truly cared for the people he loved. I thought his relationship with the girlfriends on the team were so cute too! He had such great connections with everyone on the team, and it was fun to see them come together and support him.
I liked Maggie from the start! She was such a loyal and hardworking person, and I love how she cared for her family. She had sacrificed so much for them, and I like how realistic the family relationships were. Her family was genuinely appreciative of what she had done for them, and they wanted her to move forward. Yet at the same time they were also trying to help and pull their own weight.
I thought her relationship with Lucca was adorable! He really showed up for her and supported her. Both of them were willing to sacrifice for the other person, and their banter was so fun. They definitely made each other better as they helped push each other to move forward and not get stuck in the past. This is an adorable closed door romance perfect for sports fan!
I received an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, I'm calling it... Just a Guy With a Goal is officially my favorite Jen Atkinson series. Hands down. I've enjoyed all of Jen's books that I've read, of course, but there's just something about this one. Each book in the series has been just as good, if not better, than the last. This one was certainly no exception. There's something about a MMC that doesn't do relationships who, when he does fall, falls HARD, that I absolutely cannot get enough of. Lucca fits that perfectly. At the start, he and Maggie cannot stand each other... but once he starts to see her as more than the referee he is sure has it out for him, it doesn't take long for him to be all in... he only has to convince her to feel the same. The dynamic between these two was so good... their banter was so good, and the chemistry was just flying off the pages. I truly could not get enough of them (or her nephew Wyatt, who added so much to the story too). If you love forbidden romance and are looking for your next great sports romcom read, this is IT! Truly, a must-read series!
Officially Yours is a closed-door romance with kisses only and very minimal minor language. It is the third book in the Just a Guy With a Goal series, but I do think it could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Officially Yours is a closed-door romance with kisses only and very minimal minor language. It is the third book in the Just a Guy With a Goal series, but I do think it could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
March 8, 2026
💫arc review💫
5 ⭐️
oh my gosh this was absolutely amazing. I finished this in ONE DAY! I could not get enough of Lucca and Maggie!
Enemies to lovers? Ref x soccer player? HE FALLS FIRST?! I mean what else could you possibly need?!
I loved every single aspect of this book. The banter between Lucca and Maggie when they were enemies? Hilarious. The YEARNING by Lucca when he realized that Maggie was the only woman for him? SWOOOOON. Lucca has taken yearning to a whole new level.
“I’ve just discovered that I’m a complete idiot who’s half smitten with the only girl I can’t have. And I didn’t even realize it until this very second.”
“I’m not sure one little kiss has ever caused such a sensation in me before. It’s not only the physical closeness of this woman, but the emotional connection I feel when I’m with her.”
“This is more like it. She’s warm and soft, and her touch sends besotted embers through my limbs. Is this what people feel when they’ve fallen for someone?”
UGH LUCCA THE MAN THAT YOU ARE.
I love the family elements throughout this book. I adored Lucca’s teammates who became his family. Everything was so beautifully written.
If you need a new sports romance to read, do yourself a favor and grab this book today.
✨thank you Jen for allowing me to ARC read this book for my honest review✨
5 ⭐️
oh my gosh this was absolutely amazing. I finished this in ONE DAY! I could not get enough of Lucca and Maggie!
Enemies to lovers? Ref x soccer player? HE FALLS FIRST?! I mean what else could you possibly need?!
I loved every single aspect of this book. The banter between Lucca and Maggie when they were enemies? Hilarious. The YEARNING by Lucca when he realized that Maggie was the only woman for him? SWOOOOON. Lucca has taken yearning to a whole new level.
“I’ve just discovered that I’m a complete idiot who’s half smitten with the only girl I can’t have. And I didn’t even realize it until this very second.”
“I’m not sure one little kiss has ever caused such a sensation in me before. It’s not only the physical closeness of this woman, but the emotional connection I feel when I’m with her.”
“This is more like it. She’s warm and soft, and her touch sends besotted embers through my limbs. Is this what people feel when they’ve fallen for someone?”
UGH LUCCA THE MAN THAT YOU ARE.
I love the family elements throughout this book. I adored Lucca’s teammates who became his family. Everything was so beautifully written.
If you need a new sports romance to read, do yourself a favor and grab this book today.
✨thank you Jen for allowing me to ARC read this book for my honest review✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think that each of Jen Atkinson's books keeps getting better than the last. This book was just so good. I loved everything about it!
I loved how Lucca and Maggie started out as enemies. Maggie is the ref who seems to always call bad calls on Lucca. And he has a really hard time with that. It was kind of funny how often he was complaining about her to his teammates. But then...something switches for him. And he sees her as a woman. A beautiful woman who he wants to get to know.
Only nothing has switched for Maggie. Lucca is still just the player he's always been, and now he's even more annoying.
I loved how Lucca is Brazilian. There is a tiny bit of Portuguese sprinkled through this book. That was so fun, because I'm learning Portuguese right now.
I loved Maggie's nephew, Wyatt. His big personality jumps off the pages of this book. The author did such a great job writing his character. The rest of Maggie's family was great as well.
You definitely NEED to read this book!
I loved how Lucca and Maggie started out as enemies. Maggie is the ref who seems to always call bad calls on Lucca. And he has a really hard time with that. It was kind of funny how often he was complaining about her to his teammates. But then...something switches for him. And he sees her as a woman. A beautiful woman who he wants to get to know.
Only nothing has switched for Maggie. Lucca is still just the player he's always been, and now he's even more annoying.
I loved how Lucca is Brazilian. There is a tiny bit of Portuguese sprinkled through this book. That was so fun, because I'm learning Portuguese right now.
I loved Maggie's nephew, Wyatt. His big personality jumps off the pages of this book. The author did such a great job writing his character. The rest of Maggie's family was great as well.
You definitely NEED to read this book!
March 3, 2026
I loved Maggie and Lucca’s story. The playboy soccer player and the by-the-book referee finding love? Yes, please!
Maggie is so dedicated to her family and her work, but often to her own detriment. She has been holding herself back for years because she doesn’t want to let anyone down. I loved watching her slowly come to understand that it was okay for her to live her life and that the people she loves would still be okay.
The enemies to lovers vibes in this story are excellent! The banter, yearning, and arguing are so, so good. I
loved when they both had their “oh no…I think I actually like this person” moments. Lucca has done everything he can to show Maggie he’s not a bad guy, no matter what she might think, and I loved seeing them both start to change and figure out what really matters to them.
I love the Red Tails teammates and the women in their lives. It is always fun to see them pop up in each others’ stories. The group chats with Lucca and the WAGs are so good!
This enemies to lovers, forbidden romance is the 3rd book in the Just a Guy With a Goal series.
Maggie is so dedicated to her family and her work, but often to her own detriment. She has been holding herself back for years because she doesn’t want to let anyone down. I loved watching her slowly come to understand that it was okay for her to live her life and that the people she loves would still be okay.
The enemies to lovers vibes in this story are excellent! The banter, yearning, and arguing are so, so good. I
loved when they both had their “oh no…I think I actually like this person” moments. Lucca has done everything he can to show Maggie he’s not a bad guy, no matter what she might think, and I loved seeing them both start to change and figure out what really matters to them.
I love the Red Tails teammates and the women in their lives. It is always fun to see them pop up in each others’ stories. The group chats with Lucca and the WAGs are so good!
This enemies to lovers, forbidden romance is the 3rd book in the Just a Guy With a Goal series.
March 6, 2026
Lucca Cruz is used to being able to charm every woman he comes across with a flash of his smile. Only one woman refuses to be swayed; Margaret McCrae, the female referee. After he witnesses Maggie complete one very difficult maneuver, Lucca can't get her out of her head. He has to know more. Little does he know that knowing more may mean caring more than he ever has for a single woman.
Maggie McCrae is annoyed by Lucca Cruz, and while she does her job fairly, he fights her at every call. Until one day, he doesn't, and her world starts to tilt on its axis as Lucca starts to weave his way into her life and the hearts of her family. How long can she hold out as well again her biggest pain and irritation?
The growth of Lucca and Maggie was amazing! Lucca's issues are polar opposite to Maggie's, but both of them led to defense mechanisms that kept them from life and meaningful connection. Watching them grow individually and together was sweet. Jen continues to charm with this series! 4.5⭐️
Maggie McCrae is annoyed by Lucca Cruz, and while she does her job fairly, he fights her at every call. Until one day, he doesn't, and her world starts to tilt on its axis as Lucca starts to weave his way into her life and the hearts of her family. How long can she hold out as well again her biggest pain and irritation?
The growth of Lucca and Maggie was amazing! Lucca's issues are polar opposite to Maggie's, but both of them led to defense mechanisms that kept them from life and meaningful connection. Watching them grow individually and together was sweet. Jen continues to charm with this series! 4.5⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jen Atkinson just gets better and better with every book. This was no exception. I think I cried, laughed and squealed more with glee than any other of her books. Maggie and Lucca are such so cute and sweet. She’s a ref for soccer where Lucca plays. Lucca is a Red Tails soccer player, playboy, ladies man. But when these two start to clash, Lucca falls hard for Maggie. Maggie on the other hand, can’t stand Lucca. She hates his bad playboy image, thinks he’s a gift to all women. She throws many calls out on him and he comes back at her. Maggie has a soft side for her nephew, Wyatt whom she’s helping her sister, Lindy raise. Wyatt meets Lucca, he’s obsessed and star struck. Lucca is not at all what Maggie thinks he is. I love their back and forth banter and fun flirty friendship. She tries to resist him but he flat out tells her how he feels. Such a great 5 star read.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.*
March 2, 2026
Another winner from this author in this Just a Guy with a Goal series! I love both Lucca and Maggie, minor league soccer player and referee. He thinks she has it out for him with unfair calls during the games. It was fun to read their banter throughout the book. At first in person and then also in text.
Maggie has a lot of heart. She gave up so much for her sister and nephew. Lucca has a lot of determination. He can't get her out of his head and once he figures out why that is he wants to be more than friends. It can't happen due to their occupations. It was fun seeing them non-date, though. LOL
Wyatt, Maggie's six-year-old nephew stole the show. He is so cute with his obsession of soccer, avocados and banana cream pie.
This is the third book in the series but can definitely be read as a standalone. The other couples do occur in this book, though.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Maggie has a lot of heart. She gave up so much for her sister and nephew. Lucca has a lot of determination. He can't get her out of his head and once he figures out why that is he wants to be more than friends. It can't happen due to their occupations. It was fun seeing them non-date, though. LOL
Wyatt, Maggie's six-year-old nephew stole the show. He is so cute with his obsession of soccer, avocados and banana cream pie.
This is the third book in the series but can definitely be read as a standalone. The other couples do occur in this book, though.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 6, 2026
This book is funny, romantic, and lots of flirting.
After the 2nd book I knew I would love Lucca, but MAN, do I LOVE Lucca.
The guy is so misunderstood (mainly because he likes to charm people and has some emotional healing to do). But he really is the sweetest, and not a shallow guy. This book peels back those layers.
Maggie! Talk about a strong Female Main character. She sacrifices so much for her family, and her love and no-nonsense attitude make for the perfect enemies-to-lovers story.
Things I love about this story:
- Banana Cream Pie
-The cat's name
-The entire cat situation
-"She isn't a woman, She's an official"
- Avocados
-Wyatt
-The Rainbow
-The Hammock
-Her mom/sister when Lucca gives Wyatt his birthday present
-Where/When they finally Kiss
-Her dad's hobby/obsession
-Lucca fighting for her no matter how much she pushes him away
I adore this book and this author. I hope you love this book as much as I do.
After the 2nd book I knew I would love Lucca, but MAN, do I LOVE Lucca.
The guy is so misunderstood (mainly because he likes to charm people and has some emotional healing to do). But he really is the sweetest, and not a shallow guy. This book peels back those layers.
Maggie! Talk about a strong Female Main character. She sacrifices so much for her family, and her love and no-nonsense attitude make for the perfect enemies-to-lovers story.
Things I love about this story:
- Banana Cream Pie
-The cat's name
-The entire cat situation
-"She isn't a woman, She's an official"
- Avocados
-Wyatt
-The Rainbow
-The Hammock
-Her mom/sister when Lucca gives Wyatt his birthday present
-Where/When they finally Kiss
-Her dad's hobby/obsession
-Lucca fighting for her no matter how much she pushes him away
I adore this book and this author. I hope you love this book as much as I do.
March 4, 2026
I loved Lucca(the ladies man and player)and Maggie (the official who is less than impressed)! Their banter was hilarious and perfect. I loved the pace of the story and how it was so genuine enemies to more.
Favorite parts:
-Maggie’s nephew Wyatt- such a hoot. He was so cute with his obsessions.
-Lucca realizing and researching Maggie’s history in soccer
-their text conversations. Especially how Lucca got Maggie’s number.
-the team and their significant others-the advice and all their social gatherings
-Lucca’s determination to do whatever was needed for them to be together
Favorite Quotes:
“Margaret McCrae, I adore you.”
“Maggie isn’t a spark. She’s more like a fire blazing in the hearth.”
I had no intention of kissing Lucca today. Or ever again So why does this kiss feel like the kiss I’ve been waiting for my entire life?
Favorite parts:
-Maggie’s nephew Wyatt- such a hoot. He was so cute with his obsessions.
-Lucca realizing and researching Maggie’s history in soccer
-their text conversations. Especially how Lucca got Maggie’s number.
-the team and their significant others-the advice and all their social gatherings
-Lucca’s determination to do whatever was needed for them to be together
Favorite Quotes:
“Margaret McCrae, I adore you.”
“Maggie isn’t a spark. She’s more like a fire blazing in the hearth.”
I had no intention of kissing Lucca today. Or ever again So why does this kiss feel like the kiss I’ve been waiting for my entire life?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this characters, the story, all of it. I was hooked since page one. Two people thst love the same sport, one is a referee and one is a player. Interactions between the 2 leave some lingering feelings that start to flow. Maggie has dedicated her time to her parents, sister and her little nephew Wyatt. She made changes to her life to be able to present for them. Lucca is the guy who only lives for the game and is so good looking all the girls fall for him. But of course not Maggie and thats a challenge he is ready to accept. This story was wonderful, the characters were great, specially little Wyatt. 100% recommended.
March 4, 2026
Soccer Romance 🥰 ⚽️ 🥅
These two….. oh my word!!
Their chemistry is blazing 🥵🔥
Lucca is a total ladies man but once the switch flips and he really ‘sees’ Maggie - there’s no going back. He is going to pursue her relentlessly. Seeking her out in so many crazy ways - trying to get her to ‘see’ him too. He’s determined to win her over and she can’t help but melt for him!
He goes from her worst critic to her safe place to land.
It was fun to see the side characters from the other stories in this series and how Lucca roped them into helping him.
🥰 He is so gone on her 💕 it’s adorable!
🚫🤬🚫🌶️ just steamy kisses.
These two….. oh my word!!
Their chemistry is blazing 🥵🔥
Lucca is a total ladies man but once the switch flips and he really ‘sees’ Maggie - there’s no going back. He is going to pursue her relentlessly. Seeking her out in so many crazy ways - trying to get her to ‘see’ him too. He’s determined to win her over and she can’t help but melt for him!
He goes from her worst critic to her safe place to land.
It was fun to see the side characters from the other stories in this series and how Lucca roped them into helping him.
🥰 He is so gone on her 💕 it’s adorable!
🚫🤬🚫🌶️ just steamy kisses.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well, this read was just the most lovely thing. I had high expectations for this one, and Jen delivered such a sweet, heartfelt story of sacrificial love and growth.
Maggie loved her people so deeply but she did struggle with a hero complex a bit. I’m glad she had Lindy to talk some sense into her about the situation. Her relationship with Wyatt was so precious, and I loved the part he played in the love story.
Lucca, Lucca, Lucca…talk about a man so down bad in the best way!! He is the epitome of starting to for his girl before he even realized it & I loved every second. He literally got a cat because he knew she liked cats, and this was BEFORE he realized he had feelings for her!!!!! Once he made up his mind to pursue Maggie, he stopped at nothing to try to be in her proximity at all times. He was a bit presumptuous but it was endearing. He made you root for him and Maggie while she was resisting so much.
I enjoyed this one, y’all. This whole series is top tier, and I will be waiting anxiously for Rosalie & Zev’s story. They’ve been on my mind since The Romcom Remake!!!
Thanks for the ARC, Jen! All thoughts and opinions are my own! 🥰
CW: This is a closed door romance with kisses only and no language. There’s mention of past alcoholism in a side character & the effects it had on family.
Maggie loved her people so deeply but she did struggle with a hero complex a bit. I’m glad she had Lindy to talk some sense into her about the situation. Her relationship with Wyatt was so precious, and I loved the part he played in the love story.
Lucca, Lucca, Lucca…talk about a man so down bad in the best way!! He is the epitome of starting to for his girl before he even realized it & I loved every second. He literally got a cat because he knew she liked cats, and this was BEFORE he realized he had feelings for her!!!!! Once he made up his mind to pursue Maggie, he stopped at nothing to try to be in her proximity at all times. He was a bit presumptuous but it was endearing. He made you root for him and Maggie while she was resisting so much.
I enjoyed this one, y’all. This whole series is top tier, and I will be waiting anxiously for Rosalie & Zev’s story. They’ve been on my mind since The Romcom Remake!!!
Thanks for the ARC, Jen! All thoughts and opinions are my own! 🥰
CW: This is a closed door romance with kisses only and no language. There’s mention of past alcoholism in a side character & the effects it had on family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2026
Alright, this book is so many things wonderful. Between the soccer, the romance, the laughs, and sweet little Wyatt! I loved it all. This series has been such a joy and I am realizing how much I want to watch soccer now! The team text messages, the text messages with the wives/girlfriends, just 10/10.
Lucca needed his moment! I adore how he interacts with the girlfriends and wives of the soccer team. I love how sensitive and caring he is to Maggie. How she brings out all the sentimental vibes and warmth that is Lucca, pure gold.
Maggie, having the female ref arc was such a fun change. I loved learning a tiny bit about that side of things. I loved how Maggie softens as the book progresses. I love her big heart and how much she loves her nephew. (I also love how she is growing and learning the art of letting go a tiny bit.)
This book was everything sweet that I wanted. If you haven’t picked up this series yet, here’s your sign!
CW: closed door (kisses only), past addiction in a side character.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Officially Yours by Jen Atkinson is an enemies to more, he falls first romcom. This is the third in the series of Just a Guy with Goal, but can be read as a stand-alone. @jenatkinson did not disappoint yet again. I throughly enjoyed reading through this ARC. She did a great Jon in character development and showing the feeling of each POV. With this dual POV, you can really get to know the two main characters and see how they tick.
Lucca Cruz is a soccer player from Brazil, who had an amazing vovo that took care of him. He thinks McCrae is too strict on the rules and “has it out for him.” Once he sees her in her element, outside of work, he gets curious and wants to know more about her.
Margaret McCrae or Maggie, is a soccer ref who lives with her parents and sister as well as her nephew, Wyatt. She is selfless doing more for her family than most would. She is just trying to work and care for her family, not much else matters.
Quote I loved: “She isn’t just the official who makes me crazy. She’s Maggie, the girl with gold flecks in her brown hair, freckles sprinkled over her cheeks, muscles that shape and define her legs, and one wicked left foot. The woman is a beast.”
#hefallsfirst #enemiestomore #nospiceromance #cleanromcom #arcread
**I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lucca Cruz is a soccer player from Brazil, who had an amazing vovo that took care of him. He thinks McCrae is too strict on the rules and “has it out for him.” Once he sees her in her element, outside of work, he gets curious and wants to know more about her.
Margaret McCrae or Maggie, is a soccer ref who lives with her parents and sister as well as her nephew, Wyatt. She is selfless doing more for her family than most would. She is just trying to work and care for her family, not much else matters.
Quote I loved: “She isn’t just the official who makes me crazy. She’s Maggie, the girl with gold flecks in her brown hair, freckles sprinkled over her cheeks, muscles that shape and define her legs, and one wicked left foot. The woman is a beast.”
#hefallsfirst #enemiestomore #nospiceromance #cleanromcom #arcread
**I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2026
I loved this book this was my favorite in the series ( and I loved them all)
Lucca and Maggie are such a cute couple , she’s a ref in all his games and she cards him and he gets so mad until things change for him and he wants to know more things about her.
Maggie reminds her of his grandma after he finds out she has stepped in and raised her nephew with her parents .
Her caring heart with others and how he buys a kitten after he finds out she always wanted one.
Thank you Jen for my ARC I love this book and reading Maggie and Lucca’s story
Lucca and Maggie are such a cute couple , she’s a ref in all his games and she cards him and he gets so mad until things change for him and he wants to know more things about her.
Maggie reminds her of his grandma after he finds out she has stepped in and raised her nephew with her parents .
Her caring heart with others and how he buys a kitten after he finds out she always wanted one.
Thank you Jen for my ARC I love this book and reading Maggie and Lucca’s story
February 26, 2026
I LOVED the first two books in this soccer romcom series, and book three left me feeling just as in love with these characters. First of all, this story starts out as a true enemies to lovers tale. They truly do not care for one another at all (LOL). We learn that Maggie has such a big heart and is so willing to make sacrifices for the ones she loves. Luca has been on the receiving end of that kind of love, and once he sees this in Maggie he’s a total goner for her. Seeing Luca like his was so much FUN. Loved it. Maggie’s nephew Wyatt and Luca’s cat Nanners (IYKYK) were some of the most adorable side characters I’ve ever witnessed. Pick this romcom up immediately- it’s a guaranteed great time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Brazilian born soccer player. An official who seems out to get him. Sworn enemies.... until they aren't 😉
This is a fun book! I don't know soccer very well, but it was fun to jump in a little bit into the soccer world. I enjoyed the main and side characters and their stories!!!
Both main characters had been through their own things, but I really like how they were there for each other!
This is a fun book! I don't know soccer very well, but it was fun to jump in a little bit into the soccer world. I enjoyed the main and side characters and their stories!!!
Both main characters had been through their own things, but I really like how they were there for each other!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a fun forbidden love soccer and referee book! I loved the tension in the mutual hatred for each other, and how the passion behind being enemies changed into the passion of adoration and respect for each other. The cute nephew Wyatt as always stole the show, and I'm excited for the rest of the world to get to read this book that I got the chance to read early!
March 6, 2026
5.0 🌟
I absolutely LOVED this one! It’s my favorite of the series! I don’t always like enemies to lovers cuz it’s seems ridiculous or far fetched or uncalled for. But this one flowed so perfectly. There were so many GOOD moments between them that made me smile. And the “conflict” was also very realistic and had a perfect ending to tie it up. I just loved these two together ❤️
I absolutely LOVED this one! It’s my favorite of the series! I don’t always like enemies to lovers cuz it’s seems ridiculous or far fetched or uncalled for. But this one flowed so perfectly. There were so many GOOD moments between them that made me smile. And the “conflict” was also very realistic and had a perfect ending to tie it up. I just loved these two together ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a great book. Loved the idea and premise of the whole thing. There were tons of funny or cute lines I kept reading to my husband. I’m general, a stellar enemies to lovers/ forbidden romance.
This is a must read!
This is a must read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
An excellent enemies to lovers with a soccer player and a referee. And they really do hate each other at the beginning. Lucca is used to getting his way... especially with women. Maggie gives him a bit of humble (and banana cream) pie. But don't worry, Lucca has some... unorthodox ways of bringing them closer together. This one has fun, heart, healing, and humor. Lucca and his antics are hysterical. And I love Maggie and who she is. And her nephew, Wyatt... Well, he adds even more to an already amazing group of characters. Loved this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I devoured this story! I loved the forbidden love/ enemies to lovers vibes! This sweet story will give you all the feels!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
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