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Worth the Scandal
One night. No names. No Numbers. Will it be worth the scandal?
Scarlett Walker is the architect of her own chaos. Between drowning her grief in tequila and managing the biggest names in sport, she’s learned to keep her walls high and her secrets higher. But when the company she works for collapses, Scarlett has no choice but to start over—back in her hometown of Dawson’s Ridge, where Friday night footy is sacred and the Ridgebacks are Rugby League royalty.
What she doesn’t expect? To come face-to-face with him—the stranger from one unforgettable night two years ago. The man she never thought she’d see again. The man who also happens to be her dad’s newest star player.
Asher Kingston is as devastating off the field as he is on it—and his wardrobe is overflowing with skeletons. For Scarlett, mixing business with temptation is a disaster waiting to happen. But in a town where nothing stays secret for long, resisting him might be the biggest scandal of all.
Worth the Scandal is a sizzling sports romance with a twist—fierce women running the game, players who break the stereotypes, and a love story that will have you booking a side line seat at Dawson’s Ridge Stadium.
Scarlett Walker is the architect of her own chaos. Between drowning her grief in tequila and managing the biggest names in sport, she’s learned to keep her walls high and her secrets higher. But when the company she works for collapses, Scarlett has no choice but to start over—back in her hometown of Dawson’s Ridge, where Friday night footy is sacred and the Ridgebacks are Rugby League royalty.
What she doesn’t expect? To come face-to-face with him—the stranger from one unforgettable night two years ago. The man she never thought she’d see again. The man who also happens to be her dad’s newest star player.
Asher Kingston is as devastating off the field as he is on it—and his wardrobe is overflowing with skeletons. For Scarlett, mixing business with temptation is a disaster waiting to happen. But in a town where nothing stays secret for long, resisting him might be the biggest scandal of all.
Worth the Scandal is a sizzling sports romance with a twist—fierce women running the game, players who break the stereotypes, and a love story that will have you booking a side line seat at Dawson’s Ridge Stadium.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 22, 2025
13 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 7, 2026
When your friend writes a romance novel, of course your TBR is tossed to the side and it’s at the top of your list! 🥹 this was such a fun read that moved at a really enjoyable pace with the right balance of plot depth and character development. Also having the setting of the story being in Australia added a special touch that enhanced the reading experience. I cannot WAIT for book 2, I feel like I’ve got an idea of whose story it might follow 👀😍
October 23, 2025
Perfect Aussie NRL book. I loved this one so much.
October 23, 2025
ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! Such a nice and easy read, with a great storyline!
October 26, 2025
This book has everything you could want in a romance. The banter? delicious and the drama? so good! But it also has real character development, heartfelt moments, and a good dose of rugby. It’s impossible not to love Scarlett and be rooting for Asher.
And can we talk about the dad?! So well written. I don’t think I’ve ever loved a romance dad more. That alone makes this an easy 5 stars for me. Such a feel good read with some laughs! I’m super keen for the next one.
And can we talk about the dad?! So well written. I don’t think I’ve ever loved a romance dad more. That alone makes this an easy 5 stars for me. Such a feel good read with some laughs! I’m super keen for the next one.
January 3, 2026
Corny in the best way
This was a super sweet semi predictable story but in the best way it was so nice to read and gave you warm fuzzies watching how much the MCs were obsessed with each other.
This was a super sweet semi predictable story but in the best way it was so nice to read and gave you warm fuzzies watching how much the MCs were obsessed with each other.
November 14, 2025
4 ⭐️
Was so lucky to receive an early copy of this!!
NRL romance set in Australia. I absolutely loved this book! Perfect amount of romance, banter, fun! The relationship between Scarlett and Asher was so well written! Highly recommend reading this! Pre order yours now! It will not disappoint!
January 23, 2026
I love a good sports romance book and at the moment on booksta sport is definitely having its moment. So I was very excited to enter @elmoran world of NRL and her beautifully written little word of Dawson’s Ridge.
I loved this read, I couldn’t put the book down and finished it in a little over two days. Our FMC was strong, smart and sexy and our MMC fell hard and fast! As an Aussie I really enjoyed the banter throughout the book and a sprinkling of our slang. Finding the work “fuckstick” was a personal favourite.
I’m excited for the rest of this series and can’t wait to read anything else that she puts out.
I loved this read, I couldn’t put the book down and finished it in a little over two days. Our FMC was strong, smart and sexy and our MMC fell hard and fast! As an Aussie I really enjoyed the banter throughout the book and a sprinkling of our slang. Finding the work “fuckstick” was a personal favourite.
I’m excited for the rest of this series and can’t wait to read anything else that she puts out.
October 22, 2025
The banter had me grinning and the chemistry was just chef’s kiss!
I normally read romantic fantasy or dark romance, but this one completely won me over, it honestly felt like watching a romcom movie play out in my head. I loved how bingeable it was, and I couldn’t stop reading once I started.
If you’re after something light and a little bit cheeky this is such a good pick. I’m already hanging out for the next book in the series!
I normally read romantic fantasy or dark romance, but this one completely won me over, it honestly felt like watching a romcom movie play out in my head. I loved how bingeable it was, and I couldn’t stop reading once I started.
If you’re after something light and a little bit cheeky this is such a good pick. I’m already hanging out for the next book in the series!
October 26, 2025
WORTH THE SCANDAL by EL MORAN ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
At rock bottom after losing her sports management job, Scarlett Walker is forced to return to Dawson’s Ridge to start her own management company. Dawson’s Ridge is not just her hometown, but also the hometown of the Ridgebacks, rugby league royalty, where her dad coaches. When she arrives she is shocked to find that the mystery man she shared one stolen, passionate and deeply intimate night with two years ago is her dad’s new star player.
After suffering a devastating event, Asher Kingston is starting over with a new team. Fighting pressure from his parents and hiding plenty of secrets, the only bright spark in his life is the reemergence of the stunning woman that had such a profound impact on him two years ago. The only problem is, her father has warned the entire team to stay away from her.
Sparks fly and the chemistry between them is still burning hot but with Asher’s secrets threatening to tear them apart and Scarlett struggling to promote her new company, can they find a way to have the future they both dream of?
———————————————
This is a great debut? book by EL Moran (I believe she concentrated on poetry before). I really enjoyed her writing style and although I am more a rugby union girl 😜, I thoroughly enjoyed the action and behind the scenes chapters.
The chemistry between the two MC’s was off the charts from the very beginning and I couldn’t help but cheer these two to their HEA. There is plenty of banter but also some deep meaningful moments between the pair.
The side characters are also very engaging ( I adored Scarlett’s dad and would love to see more of him) and this book introduced plenty of options for future books, to see where those characters lives lead - Shell, Jace, Jenn etc etc, that I would love to read.
At around 260 pages, with a bright, engaging cover that draws you in, I definitely recommend readers to give this delightful book a try.
Thank you to E.L.Moran for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🏉 Sports Romance
🏉 Close Proximity
🏉 Second Chance
🏉 🔥🔥🔥
🏉 He Falls Hard
🏉 Rugby League
🏉Australia
At rock bottom after losing her sports management job, Scarlett Walker is forced to return to Dawson’s Ridge to start her own management company. Dawson’s Ridge is not just her hometown, but also the hometown of the Ridgebacks, rugby league royalty, where her dad coaches. When she arrives she is shocked to find that the mystery man she shared one stolen, passionate and deeply intimate night with two years ago is her dad’s new star player.
After suffering a devastating event, Asher Kingston is starting over with a new team. Fighting pressure from his parents and hiding plenty of secrets, the only bright spark in his life is the reemergence of the stunning woman that had such a profound impact on him two years ago. The only problem is, her father has warned the entire team to stay away from her.
Sparks fly and the chemistry between them is still burning hot but with Asher’s secrets threatening to tear them apart and Scarlett struggling to promote her new company, can they find a way to have the future they both dream of?
———————————————
This is a great debut? book by EL Moran (I believe she concentrated on poetry before). I really enjoyed her writing style and although I am more a rugby union girl 😜, I thoroughly enjoyed the action and behind the scenes chapters.
The chemistry between the two MC’s was off the charts from the very beginning and I couldn’t help but cheer these two to their HEA. There is plenty of banter but also some deep meaningful moments between the pair.
The side characters are also very engaging ( I adored Scarlett’s dad and would love to see more of him) and this book introduced plenty of options for future books, to see where those characters lives lead - Shell, Jace, Jenn etc etc, that I would love to read.
At around 260 pages, with a bright, engaging cover that draws you in, I definitely recommend readers to give this delightful book a try.
Thank you to E.L.Moran for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🏉 Sports Romance
🏉 Close Proximity
🏉 Second Chance
🏉 🔥🔥🔥
🏉 He Falls Hard
🏉 Rugby League
🏉Australia
November 25, 2025
What a fun NRL inspired book by E L Moran as her debut! I could tell she knows her rugby, which reflected on the page—something I appreciated throughout the entire book. Nothing beats an accurate depiction of the sport!
I liked how fiery Scarlett was. It made for an interesting read. I enjoyed reading about her friendship with Shell and watching that blossom throughout the book.
Overall, for me, I found the pacing of the plot and lack of character arc growth to be the main reasons for not 100% loving the book. I unfortunately didn't feel much of a connection between Scarlett and Asher, which made it hard to root for them through the book. I wanted to love Asher, but I sadly didn't form that connection with him that I was hoping for. At times, I felt confused by the MCs' reactions to certain things and their decision-making, especially toward the end, and there didn't seem to be any stakes for their relationship. Even when there was drama happening, it all just fell flat to me because of the lack of stakes and urgency for the MCs. At times, the improper use of grammar and punctuation took me out of scenes throughout the book. But that's just a personal thing!
Besides that, I enjoyed the small town vibes, which totally reminded me of the town I grew up in! And I will forever love the use of Aussie slang in books, no matter how many times people say it's cringe 😅
If you want to add an NRL inspired book to your TBR, I would recommend Worth the Scandal 😊
I liked how fiery Scarlett was. It made for an interesting read. I enjoyed reading about her friendship with Shell and watching that blossom throughout the book.
Overall, for me, I found the pacing of the plot and lack of character arc growth to be the main reasons for not 100% loving the book. I unfortunately didn't feel much of a connection between Scarlett and Asher, which made it hard to root for them through the book. I wanted to love Asher, but I sadly didn't form that connection with him that I was hoping for. At times, I felt confused by the MCs' reactions to certain things and their decision-making, especially toward the end, and there didn't seem to be any stakes for their relationship. Even when there was drama happening, it all just fell flat to me because of the lack of stakes and urgency for the MCs. At times, the improper use of grammar and punctuation took me out of scenes throughout the book. But that's just a personal thing!
Besides that, I enjoyed the small town vibes, which totally reminded me of the town I grew up in! And I will forever love the use of Aussie slang in books, no matter how many times people say it's cringe 😅
If you want to add an NRL inspired book to your TBR, I would recommend Worth the Scandal 😊
November 8, 2025
Wow. Just wow. This is E.L. Moran’s debut novel and honestly, what a way to make an entrance! As an Aussie reader, it’s so refreshing to read a story set right here in Australia that actually feels Aussie — full of our humour, our banter, and that vibe you just don’t get anywhere else. We need more of this on our shelves!
Scarlett and Asher meet at a party in Sydney and agree to one night — no names, no numbers, no strings… and years later, they’re both still thinking about it 👀 Scarlett’s a total boss babe, running her own Sports PR agency, and Asher’s the rising star for the Dawson’s Ridge Ridgebacks (yes, an NRL team 😍). He’s got that tough, broody thing going on, but underneath it all? Absolute sweetheart.
Oh, and just a little detail — the Ridgebacks’ coach happens to be Scarlett’s dad, who’s made it very clear the team needs to stay far, far away from his daughter 😅 So yeah, the tension is real.
This book has everything — sizzling chemistry, banter that’ll make you grin, a bit of angst, a whole lot of heart, and the perfect dash of spice. It’s an emotional ride in all the best ways.
If you love a good sports romance with an Aussie twist, Worth the Scandal needs to be on your TBR immediately. E.L. Moran absolutely nailed it, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next! 🫶
Scarlett and Asher meet at a party in Sydney and agree to one night — no names, no numbers, no strings… and years later, they’re both still thinking about it 👀 Scarlett’s a total boss babe, running her own Sports PR agency, and Asher’s the rising star for the Dawson’s Ridge Ridgebacks (yes, an NRL team 😍). He’s got that tough, broody thing going on, but underneath it all? Absolute sweetheart.
Oh, and just a little detail — the Ridgebacks’ coach happens to be Scarlett’s dad, who’s made it very clear the team needs to stay far, far away from his daughter 😅 So yeah, the tension is real.
This book has everything — sizzling chemistry, banter that’ll make you grin, a bit of angst, a whole lot of heart, and the perfect dash of spice. It’s an emotional ride in all the best ways.
If you love a good sports romance with an Aussie twist, Worth the Scandal needs to be on your TBR immediately. E.L. Moran absolutely nailed it, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next! 🫶
October 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
I loved this book! Worth the Scandal was such a fun, emotional, and addictive read — I couldn’t put it down. E.L. Moran did an amazing job balancing romance, drama, and heart in a way that felt totally authentic.
The rugby league setting was such a fresh backdrop — it added intensity and realism without overshadowing the romance. You can tell the author really knows the sport, and it made the story feel grounded and believable.
The characters were what really sold it for me. They felt real — flawed, passionate, and easy to root for. The chemistry was amazing (and seriously hard to look away from), but what I loved most was how much emotional depth there was beneath all the attraction. Both leads had their own baggage and insecurities, and watching them slowly let their walls down was so satisfying.
I also really appreciated that the story didn’t shy away from the pressures and challenges of being in the spotlight. It made the “scandal” part of the title hit harder and gave the romance more weight.
Overall, Worth the Scandal was heartfelt, steamy, and full of tension in all the right ways. If you love sports romances with strong chemistry, real emotion, and characters you can’t stop thinking about, this one is absolutely worth the read.
I loved this book! Worth the Scandal was such a fun, emotional, and addictive read — I couldn’t put it down. E.L. Moran did an amazing job balancing romance, drama, and heart in a way that felt totally authentic.
The rugby league setting was such a fresh backdrop — it added intensity and realism without overshadowing the romance. You can tell the author really knows the sport, and it made the story feel grounded and believable.
The characters were what really sold it for me. They felt real — flawed, passionate, and easy to root for. The chemistry was amazing (and seriously hard to look away from), but what I loved most was how much emotional depth there was beneath all the attraction. Both leads had their own baggage and insecurities, and watching them slowly let their walls down was so satisfying.
I also really appreciated that the story didn’t shy away from the pressures and challenges of being in the spotlight. It made the “scandal” part of the title hit harder and gave the romance more weight.
Overall, Worth the Scandal was heartfelt, steamy, and full of tension in all the right ways. If you love sports romances with strong chemistry, real emotion, and characters you can’t stop thinking about, this one is absolutely worth the read.
November 25, 2025
Worth the Scandal is a fresh, fast-paced sports romance set against the vibrant backdrop of Australia’s NRL world. This book delivers everything you want in the genre—heat, spice, drama, and genuinely good vibes—while still giving you characters you can’t help but root for.
Scarlett is instantly lovable. As a sports manager, she’s driven, relatable, and written with a level of depth that makes you feel her every emotion. Then there’s Asher—the NRL star you inevitably fall for. Their chemistry is electric from the very first page.
The story kicks off with a no-names one-night stand that leaves a lasting mark on both of them. When they cross paths again two years later, neither has forgotten the connection they shared. Watching that spark turn into something real—full of tension, longing, and slow-burn payoff—makes the journey incredibly satisfying.
E.L. Moran’s writing shines throughout: engaging, addictive, and perfectly paced. I loved every moment of this book and found myself completely swept up in Scarlett and Asher’s world.
A must-read for fans of steamy romance and sports-driven drama.
Scarlett is instantly lovable. As a sports manager, she’s driven, relatable, and written with a level of depth that makes you feel her every emotion. Then there’s Asher—the NRL star you inevitably fall for. Their chemistry is electric from the very first page.
The story kicks off with a no-names one-night stand that leaves a lasting mark on both of them. When they cross paths again two years later, neither has forgotten the connection they shared. Watching that spark turn into something real—full of tension, longing, and slow-burn payoff—makes the journey incredibly satisfying.
E.L. Moran’s writing shines throughout: engaging, addictive, and perfectly paced. I loved every moment of this book and found myself completely swept up in Scarlett and Asher’s world.
A must-read for fans of steamy romance and sports-driven drama.
November 30, 2025
✨️eARC Review✨️
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶
When Scarlett's company goes under, it means she can finally build her own sports management company, but at the cost of moving back to her small town where she comes face to face with her nameless ONS that helped her through her grief. And he's the star player of her dad's rugby team she's now looking to represent. She knows she shouldn't mix business with pleasure but they just can't stay away after constantly thinking about each other the past 2 years. Will Asher's grief and past be a bigger scandal then them dating?
How fitting that my first rugby book was E L's debut! If you know me, you know I enjoy actual sports talk in my sports romance and while I don't know anything about rugby, I enjoyed that there was game play going on among the plot. I also loved towards the end that we got a little suspense plot and a little 3rd act will they/won't they to keep things tense until the HEA! Scarlett and Asher really fought their past to bring something beautiful together from their grief.
Tropes:
✔️ Rugby Romance
✔️ One Night Stand
✔️ Second Chance Romance
✔️ Small Town Romance
✔️ He Falls First
✔️ Work Place Romance
✔️ Forced Proximity
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶
When Scarlett's company goes under, it means she can finally build her own sports management company, but at the cost of moving back to her small town where she comes face to face with her nameless ONS that helped her through her grief. And he's the star player of her dad's rugby team she's now looking to represent. She knows she shouldn't mix business with pleasure but they just can't stay away after constantly thinking about each other the past 2 years. Will Asher's grief and past be a bigger scandal then them dating?
How fitting that my first rugby book was E L's debut! If you know me, you know I enjoy actual sports talk in my sports romance and while I don't know anything about rugby, I enjoyed that there was game play going on among the plot. I also loved towards the end that we got a little suspense plot and a little 3rd act will they/won't they to keep things tense until the HEA! Scarlett and Asher really fought their past to bring something beautiful together from their grief.
Tropes:
✔️ Rugby Romance
✔️ One Night Stand
✔️ Second Chance Romance
✔️ Small Town Romance
✔️ He Falls First
✔️ Work Place Romance
✔️ Forced Proximity
November 3, 2025
ARC Review
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice- 🌶️🌶️
I was utterly smitten with Worth The Scandal, a Rugby League Romance that has left me craving more.
I was captivated by Author E L Moran's writing style, which was smooth and seamless throughout. This second-chance romance, set in a small Australian town, it immediately drew me in. If you enjoy sports romances with relatable characters, witty dialogue, and a happily ever after, this is definitely worth checking out.
Two years earlier in Sydney, Scarlett and Asher had a one-night stand, but they never exchanged names or numbers.
What happens when Scarlett returns to her hometown of Dawson's Ridge two years later and her path crosses with his?
Favourite Moments -
Cleans your place while you sleep
Leaves a posted note
Theft of a Shopping List
Infamous Yellow Roses
Water Boarded by a Garden Hose
I want to thank you for the opportunity to have ARC read Worth The Scandal. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and was sad when it ended. I'm looking forward to reading more of your work in the future. 🫶🖤
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice- 🌶️🌶️
I was utterly smitten with Worth The Scandal, a Rugby League Romance that has left me craving more.
I was captivated by Author E L Moran's writing style, which was smooth and seamless throughout. This second-chance romance, set in a small Australian town, it immediately drew me in. If you enjoy sports romances with relatable characters, witty dialogue, and a happily ever after, this is definitely worth checking out.
Two years earlier in Sydney, Scarlett and Asher had a one-night stand, but they never exchanged names or numbers.
What happens when Scarlett returns to her hometown of Dawson's Ridge two years later and her path crosses with his?
Favourite Moments -
Cleans your place while you sleep
Leaves a posted note
Theft of a Shopping List
Infamous Yellow Roses
Water Boarded by a Garden Hose
I want to thank you for the opportunity to have ARC read Worth The Scandal. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and was sad when it ended. I'm looking forward to reading more of your work in the future. 🫶🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Tropes:
🏉 Sports romance
🏉 one night stand turned second chance romance
🏉 forced proximity
I really enjoyed this book, it was such an easy read and the character development and pacing was ✨phenomenal✨.
Asher Kingston the man that you are, he was practically kicking his feet over Scarlett’s texts and I loved that we got so much of his perspective, the dual pov really contributed to how much I loved it. I also really liked how work focused Scarlett was and how this wasn’t viewed as a bad trait and instead everyone was super supportive and championed her success.
I realised I need to read more Aussie authors where the books are set in Australia, because the joy I felt when I saw “fuckwit” printed in this book I have never felt before.
Im an absolute sucker for a sports romance and look while im not a rugby fan…. (I was raised on afl 💅) this made me want to watch a game. You can really tell the author is an nrl fan and she really did it justice in this book. I also really enjoyed the writing style it flowed seamlessly like a stream of consciousness which made it a quick and enjoyable read and I found it a lot easier to connect with the characters.
Favourite moment? Garden hose. I will not be elaborating because spoilers and you should read it 💅 but it was 1am when I got there and I was
✨ cackling✨.
Favourite character was obviously coach Ted ( god of dad energy) and I really loved his relationship with Scarlett and was left wanting more.
A massive thank you to E L Moran for the arc this was such a great introduction to your work and I cannot wait to read more.
🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Tropes:
🏉 Sports romance
🏉 one night stand turned second chance romance
🏉 forced proximity
I really enjoyed this book, it was such an easy read and the character development and pacing was ✨phenomenal✨.
Asher Kingston the man that you are, he was practically kicking his feet over Scarlett’s texts and I loved that we got so much of his perspective, the dual pov really contributed to how much I loved it. I also really liked how work focused Scarlett was and how this wasn’t viewed as a bad trait and instead everyone was super supportive and championed her success.
I realised I need to read more Aussie authors where the books are set in Australia, because the joy I felt when I saw “fuckwit” printed in this book I have never felt before.
Im an absolute sucker for a sports romance and look while im not a rugby fan…. (I was raised on afl 💅) this made me want to watch a game. You can really tell the author is an nrl fan and she really did it justice in this book. I also really enjoyed the writing style it flowed seamlessly like a stream of consciousness which made it a quick and enjoyable read and I found it a lot easier to connect with the characters.
Favourite moment? Garden hose. I will not be elaborating because spoilers and you should read it 💅 but it was 1am when I got there and I was
✨ cackling✨.
Favourite character was obviously coach Ted ( god of dad energy) and I really loved his relationship with Scarlett and was left wanting more.
A massive thank you to E L Moran for the arc this was such a great introduction to your work and I cannot wait to read more.
October 26, 2025
Wow… I absolutely loved this! Thanks to E L Moran for giving me the opportunity to read this one early.
My overall impression is that I loved the Australian representation with the focus on NRL and small town community. And of course that one spicy scene, (hint): the goal post 🔥
For me the pacing was excellently paced building on just the right amount of sexual tension.
I enjoyed how as a reader we learned little pieces of Scarlet and Asher’s past and how it all fits together into the bigger picture.
I even fell in love with some of the side characters like Shelly, Jen, and Collin. The found family aspect made me heart melt.
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
I would rate this one a 5/5 stars! I so hope we get to see more from Dawson’s Ridge. I’m so not ready to say goodbye!
Pre order for the book is open now. Release date is 22 November .
Happy reading🫶📚
My overall impression is that I loved the Australian representation with the focus on NRL and small town community. And of course that one spicy scene, (hint): the goal post 🔥
For me the pacing was excellently paced building on just the right amount of sexual tension.
I enjoyed how as a reader we learned little pieces of Scarlet and Asher’s past and how it all fits together into the bigger picture.
I even fell in love with some of the side characters like Shelly, Jen, and Collin. The found family aspect made me heart melt.
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
I would rate this one a 5/5 stars! I so hope we get to see more from Dawson’s Ridge. I’m so not ready to say goodbye!
Pre order for the book is open now. Release date is 22 November .
Happy reading🫶📚
October 26, 2025
So proud of my friend — and I couldn’t put this down!
I’ll be honest — I’m not a big reader. It usually takes me ages to finish a book, but Worth the Scandal completely sucked me in. I picked it up to support my friend and ended up staying up way too late because I just had to know what would happen next. It’s got everything I love in a romance: strong characters, real emotion, and that perfect mix of tension and tenderness.
I’ve watched her work so hard on this story, and seeing it all come together made me so proud. The NRL backdrop felt real and exciting, and the chemistry between the main characters was spot on — steamy in all the right ways but still full of heart.
Even if I didn’t know her, I’d still be raving about this book. It’s emotional, addictive, and honestly made me feel all the things. So proud of you 💕🏉
I’ll be honest — I’m not a big reader. It usually takes me ages to finish a book, but Worth the Scandal completely sucked me in. I picked it up to support my friend and ended up staying up way too late because I just had to know what would happen next. It’s got everything I love in a romance: strong characters, real emotion, and that perfect mix of tension and tenderness.
I’ve watched her work so hard on this story, and seeing it all come together made me so proud. The NRL backdrop felt real and exciting, and the chemistry between the main characters was spot on — steamy in all the right ways but still full of heart.
Even if I didn’t know her, I’d still be raving about this book. It’s emotional, addictive, and honestly made me feel all the things. So proud of you 💕🏉
November 4, 2025
I was lucky enough to be chosen as an ARC reader for this amazing book and I think I may have found my new favourite comfort read! I was completely hooked after the first couple chapters, I found it so hard to put it down (literally all I could think about when I wasn't reading it)!
I loved that we actually got some NRL game commentary and that it was based around the area I grew up in, I felt like I was reading a story based on home. I often found myself laughing out loud, the chemistry between the characters was extremely well written.
I pray there will be more books coming out of the Dawson Ridge Series or just more books in general from this author!!
One of my favourite quotes from the book:
I lean back in the chair. "I'm not trying to replace anyone."
"You're just trying to play footy, kiss my daughter, and not get murdered by a hose."
“Exactly..”
I loved that we actually got some NRL game commentary and that it was based around the area I grew up in, I felt like I was reading a story based on home. I often found myself laughing out loud, the chemistry between the characters was extremely well written.
I pray there will be more books coming out of the Dawson Ridge Series or just more books in general from this author!!
One of my favourite quotes from the book:
I lean back in the chair. "I'm not trying to replace anyone."
"You're just trying to play footy, kiss my daughter, and not get murdered by a hose."
“Exactly..”
November 5, 2025
This was a really good debut from EL Moran, the kind that makes you sit back and go, “Okay, I see you.”
And look, I’m a sucker for a sports romance on a normal day…but throw NRL into the mix and a die-hard fan like me didn’t stand a chance.
(Can you tell who my team is yet?)
Coach Walker was a standout character for me. The man was giving very specific NRL coach energy and I was absolutely picturing one in particular the whole time 😉
The Aussie banter and slang hit perfectly, giving the whole story that familiar, warm, local energy.
Scarlett and Asher’s chemistry was fantastic and the spicy scenes were exactly the kind I always show up for.
Overall, such a fun, easy read. The perfect hit for anyone missing footy season and counting down the days till kick-off all over again.
And look, I’m a sucker for a sports romance on a normal day…but throw NRL into the mix and a die-hard fan like me didn’t stand a chance.
(Can you tell who my team is yet?)
Coach Walker was a standout character for me. The man was giving very specific NRL coach energy and I was absolutely picturing one in particular the whole time 😉
The Aussie banter and slang hit perfectly, giving the whole story that familiar, warm, local energy.
Scarlett and Asher’s chemistry was fantastic and the spicy scenes were exactly the kind I always show up for.
Overall, such a fun, easy read. The perfect hit for anyone missing footy season and counting down the days till kick-off all over again.
November 4, 2025
This book had me hooked from page one! Scarlett and Asher’s connection was electric. That first-night hookup with no names or numbers? Perfection. And when fate threw them back together two years later — I was all in.
I loved Scarlett’s boss-babe attitude and how she held her own as a PR powerhouse, and Asher… whew. A charming Australian footy player with heart and heat? Yes, please. Their chemistry practically leapt off the page, and the emotional beats hit just right.
This was such a fun, swoony, fast-paced read — the perfect mix of spice, heart, and fate working overtime. Absolutely worth every star. ✨
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved Scarlett’s boss-babe attitude and how she held her own as a PR powerhouse, and Asher… whew. A charming Australian footy player with heart and heat? Yes, please. Their chemistry practically leapt off the page, and the emotional beats hit just right.
This was such a fun, swoony, fast-paced read — the perfect mix of spice, heart, and fate working overtime. Absolutely worth every star. ✨
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 5, 2025
Worth The Scandal by E L Moran
A Rugby League Romance Novel
.
Reading Method;
📱: ✅
🎧:
📕:
Now, we are a huge NRL family despite living in a state with no team (well until next year that is, yay) and getting the opportunity to read this was a quick yes from me. This book was brilliant, it has just the right amount of spicy, plot and nrl that I needed.
Scarlett and Asher have a lot trying to go against their relationship, and pasts that neither of them are really willing to dish out but after a night of mystery, it’s all up hill from there.
I loved this book, and if you’re an NRL fan or just a sports fan in general this one’s for you.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Worth The Scandal and for that I am very grateful.
A Rugby League Romance Novel
.
Reading Method;
📱: ✅
🎧:
📕:
Now, we are a huge NRL family despite living in a state with no team (well until next year that is, yay) and getting the opportunity to read this was a quick yes from me. This book was brilliant, it has just the right amount of spicy, plot and nrl that I needed.
Scarlett and Asher have a lot trying to go against their relationship, and pasts that neither of them are really willing to dish out but after a night of mystery, it’s all up hill from there.
I loved this book, and if you’re an NRL fan or just a sports fan in general this one’s for you.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Worth The Scandal and for that I am very grateful.
December 21, 2025
This was such a cute, fun sports romance with strong Aussie vibes. I really enjoyed the chemistry and banter, and honestly… && I did not see that twist coming 👀 — it added a nice layer that surprised me in the best way.
The small-town feel, the rugby backdrop, and the forced proximity and a smdigen of forbidden romance, all worked really well, making this an easy, addictive read. The romance was sweet with just enough heat, and felt like a rom-com on the page, light, engaging, and very bingeable.
While some emotional moments didn’t hit quite as deeply for me as they could have, I still had a great time with the story overall. It’s charming, entertaining, and perfect if you’re in the mood for a feel-good romance with a little extra drama thrown in.
The small-town feel, the rugby backdrop, and the forced proximity and a smdigen of forbidden romance, all worked really well, making this an easy, addictive read. The romance was sweet with just enough heat, and felt like a rom-com on the page, light, engaging, and very bingeable.
While some emotional moments didn’t hit quite as deeply for me as they could have, I still had a great time with the story overall. It’s charming, entertaining, and perfect if you’re in the mood for a feel-good romance with a little extra drama thrown in.
October 30, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! I’d been in a bit of a slump after some challenging reads, and this completely cured me. It’s such a cute story with surprising depth (nothing too crazy) that I wasn’t expecting. It had that perfect small-town feel, and the way everything was described really pulled me in. I loved Asher and Scarlett, their chemistry was so fun to read and felt so real. I’d recommend this to anyone wanting a fun, heartfelt read that still offers a touch of realness while giving you enough aspirational escapism to stay hooked.
Tropes & Vibes:
🏉 NRL / Sports Romance
🔥 One-Night Stand → More
💞 Unexpected Feelings
🌻 Small Aussie Town Setting
💪 Protective Hero
❤️ Healing & Growth
Tropes & Vibes:
🏉 NRL / Sports Romance
🔥 One-Night Stand → More
💞 Unexpected Feelings
🌻 Small Aussie Town Setting
💪 Protective Hero
❤️ Healing & Growth
December 7, 2025
ARC Reader Confessional – Worth the Scandal
Worth the Scandal hooked me with its tension, emotional stakes, and the complicated, addictive pull between the main characters. E.L. Moran writes messy, passionate dynamics so well, and I loved the chemistry and drama woven through the story.
A few parts didn’t land as strongly for me, but overall it was engaging, angsty, and kept me turning the pages. If you love forbidden vibes, heated tension, and a romance that doesn’t shy away from emotional chaos, this one is worth picking up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Worth the Scandal hooked me with its tension, emotional stakes, and the complicated, addictive pull between the main characters. E.L. Moran writes messy, passionate dynamics so well, and I loved the chemistry and drama woven through the story.
A few parts didn’t land as strongly for me, but overall it was engaging, angsty, and kept me turning the pages. If you love forbidden vibes, heated tension, and a romance that doesn’t shy away from emotional chaos, this one is worth picking up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 23, 2025
The chemistry was absolute fire—like a perfect chef's kiss that sends shivers down your spine.
As I read this, it felt like I was right there, watching a romcom unfold in my mind—full of colour, laughs, and heart. I was completely hooked; I couldn’t put it down once I’d begun. Work? Who cares! This is where I wanted to be, lost in the magic of it all.
If you’re after something lighthearted, cheeky, and downright exhilarating, this is a absolute stunner. And let’s be honest—who could resist those rugby lads in their shorts? 😜
As I read this, it felt like I was right there, watching a romcom unfold in my mind—full of colour, laughs, and heart. I was completely hooked; I couldn’t put it down once I’d begun. Work? Who cares! This is where I wanted to be, lost in the magic of it all.
If you’re after something lighthearted, cheeky, and downright exhilarating, this is a absolute stunner. And let’s be honest—who could resist those rugby lads in their shorts? 😜
November 9, 2025
A super fun sports romance set amidst a backdrop of NRL with a little peek into their world of agents and brand deals and image with a little internal politics jostling for positions.
Scarlett and Asher are so perfect together, being everything that the other needs without even knowing. Their banter is fantastic and the spice is spicy!!
This novel has a great storyline and strong characters that you actually care about and want to see the good guys succeed and the bad guys get exactly what they deserve!
Can't wait to see what E L Moran has for us next!
Scarlett and Asher are so perfect together, being everything that the other needs without even knowing. Their banter is fantastic and the spice is spicy!!
This novel has a great storyline and strong characters that you actually care about and want to see the good guys succeed and the bad guys get exactly what they deserve!
Can't wait to see what E L Moran has for us next!
November 12, 2025
In the world of oversaturated sports romance, this was perfect and my first NFL romance.
The banter was top tier, the MMC Asher was just enough dark, broody with a heap of obsessive, she’s mine to make the perfect book boyfriend. Scar is feisty, funny and a sports agent. The chemistry between those two was out of this world and had just enough spice.
I will definitely be reading everything else from this author, I loved her writing style and have my fingers crossed for some more Ridgeback stories!
The banter was top tier, the MMC Asher was just enough dark, broody with a heap of obsessive, she’s mine to make the perfect book boyfriend. Scar is feisty, funny and a sports agent. The chemistry between those two was out of this world and had just enough spice.
I will definitely be reading everything else from this author, I loved her writing style and have my fingers crossed for some more Ridgeback stories!
November 22, 2025
~ARC Read ~ I loved this Aussie sports romance. Being from Australia and a big NRL fan it was lovely to know the sport. Asher and Scarlett have their own secrets and reasons for doing what they do they just can’t stay away from each other. The story was well written and had a great flow. The little
twist in the last third was a surprise and I didn’t see it coming. Would recommend to sports romance readers even if you don’t know NRL as it is not all about the sport, there is a running theme but nothing you won’t pick up on. The spice is good and the banter is better.
twist in the last third was a surprise and I didn’t see it coming. Would recommend to sports romance readers even if you don’t know NRL as it is not all about the sport, there is a running theme but nothing you won’t pick up on. The spice is good and the banter is better.
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January 18, 2026
Outrageously good!
I picked this book after seeing it on Booktok and I don’t normally read romance or care about football 😅 BUT I live in a rugby league obsessed town and met my husband when he worked for my Dad in a bush town in outback NSW. This book did not disappoint- I finally get why people read romance now. The plot was fast paced and just enough spice to help you fall in love with Asher. Brilliant, easy and a great plot. Can’t wait for book 2 🎉
I picked this book after seeing it on Booktok and I don’t normally read romance or care about football 😅 BUT I live in a rugby league obsessed town and met my husband when he worked for my Dad in a bush town in outback NSW. This book did not disappoint- I finally get why people read romance now. The plot was fast paced and just enough spice to help you fall in love with Asher. Brilliant, easy and a great plot. Can’t wait for book 2 🎉
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