Pass Rush

by Erin MacKenzie

Liam Evans always gets what he wants. Or so it seems.
Quarterback for the Knights and a personality able to charm anyone--he's never had much to complain about. But it's easy to hide behind an infectious smile and witty sense of humor masking sleepless nights and unhealed generational trauma. Bad days aren't allowed and feelings aren't meant to be expressed--at least that's what he's always been told.
The one feeling Liam never has trouble expressing though? His long time crush on the Knights sideline reporter, Demi Sanchez.
She's confident, independent and has worked hard in the world of sports, with more goals still to be met. But when her world flips upside down and her divorce is finalized, she finds unexpected peace and comfort with the hot shot quarterback when their personal lives intertwine. Causing her to question everything she thought she knew.
Will Liam's shiny personality be the spark that Demi needs again in her life? And will Demi's ability to weather storms help Liam see that showing vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness?
Maybe they're exactly what each other needs.

Genres: Sports Romance, He Falls First, Football, Slow Burn, Workplace Romance, Workplace

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 5, 2026

About the author

Erin MacKenzie is a romance author who lives in a small town in Florida with her family. She loves writing real, emotionally driven romance with steamy and laugh out loud moments along the way. When she isn't reading or writing, you can usually find her trying out new recipes, spending time outdoors or rooting on her favorite sports teams. You can connect with her on Instagram and TikTok at @erinmackenzie.author.

Reviews

[Kayla | Kayla Reads Smut · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know what I was expecting out of Liam and Demi's book, but this one over succeeded anything that I could have ever dreamt of. I didn't think Erin could top The End Zone for me, but Pass Rush took the top spot for me, for so many reasons. This book sucked me in. I picked it up and I never wanted to put it down.

I honestly don’t know if I could love Liam and Demi more even if I tried! Liam is a walking talking green flag golden retriever. This man is so much more than his persona of hotshot quarterback. And out girl Demi, I loved her so much. I related to her on so many aspects. She's slightly closed off with impenetrable walls. Which rightfully so. She recently divorced and her ex husband never truly loved her right. But leave it up to Liam to show her through his thoughtful acts of service and always making sure Demi felt in control of her actions.

The way Liam loved Demi was oddly healing for me. It's the way a man should love someone. His thoughtfulness, school boy crush and the way he expressed himself made me so weak in the knees. It was literally perfect. I wouldn't change a thing! I'm so glad his perseverance over the course of 5 years paid off. He deserved to get the girl in the end.

I am so sad to see this series come to an end. It is one of my favorite football romance series with a strong found family. So if you are looking to binge a football romance series, this is the one for you!

You should definitely read this book if you like:
- Football Romance
- Workplace Romance
- Quarterback x Reporter
- MCs in their 30s
- Man OBSESSED
- He Falls First and HARDER
- Neighbors to Lovers
- Golden Retriever MMC
- SLOW BURN
- Mental Health Rep

* I would like to say THANK YOU to Erin Mackenzie for allowing me the absolute pleasure to read Pass Rush as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.

[what.jordan.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Being cared for the way Liam does for me makes me know with 100 percent certainty I wasn’t properly cared for before.” 🫠🥹

I may or may not be crying writing this review for the final installment in the Out of Bounds series and I may or may not be unwell. This series is one of those series that feels like a warm hug and you wish so desperately that the characters were real because they’re that special 🫶🏻

Erin couldn’t have written a better story for Liam and Demi and the way she brought this series to a close was perfect and, you guessed it, I was crying 😜 We’ve grown to love Liam so much over the past 3 books and swoon over his *very obvious* crush on Demi as soon as she became the sports reporter for the Tampa Knights. You want to talk about YEARNING? Yeah, his name is under the definition because that man has been yearning for 5 years and the way it unfolds between the two of them was so freaking precious and perfect.

The emotional maturity and connection Liam and Demi have with one another was my favorite part of this story. They had such vulnerable moments that really made you root for them and reading their feelings truly blossom for one another into the sweetest love was so freaking beautiful and I couldn’t love them more if I tried.

And don’t even get me started on that epilogue because I LOVE THEM ALL SO MUCH 😭😭 I am so freaking proud of Erin for writing such a beautiful, heartfelt, sports romance series that has the best found family, hilarious banter, and love that hits you deep in your feels. If it’s not abundantly clear that I’m obsessed with the Out of Bounds series, I am obsessed.

Ford & Abby.
Nate & Mia.
Chase & Summer.
Liam & Demi.
All the stars.
I miss them all so much already.
READ THESE DANG BOOKS OKAY?!?

🏈✨💜🩵🩷💚

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liam and Demi's story was a beautiful one. Liam was down bad and never shied away from proving that he was all in. He remembers everything about her and isn't afraid to say it. He's a man that has some internal struggles but never shows the world. Seeing him be vulnerable and have those deep, meaningful conversations with Demi was so heartwarming 🥹

Demi is finding her feet after divorce. She's so inspiring, pushing herself to grow and find her own happiness. The open communication between these two 🤌🏼 Liam & Demi truly are soulmates and I loved every minute of their story.

This was the most delicious slow burn ❤️‍🔥 and their story needed this, watching them become friends and then more was truly beautiful. The found family in the series is amazing, they welcomed and supported Demi with open arms. This was the perfect ending of an amazing series that I've loved.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 -
🏈Quarterback x Reporter
💚Workplace Romance
🏈Reformed Playboy
💚He Calls First

[Emily Finch · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing ending to this series. Liam and Demi were worth the wait (Liam would agree, too 😉) & watching their story come to life was such a breath of fresh air.

The Out of Bounds series will always hold such a special place in my heart and while I’m sad to see it come to end, I’m so excited to see what Erin has in store for us next!

[Ashley Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC!

[Elizabeth Keeter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Demi Sanchez is rebuilding her life one year after divorcing her famous basketball-player husband. For the first time in years, she’s making decisions solely for herself, learning who she is outside of a marriage that slowly erased pieces of her identity. Landing a job with the Tampa Bay Knights football team and working her way up to sideline reporter is one step closer to her dream of becoming a prime time broadcast reporter. Love isn’t on her radar. Survival, independence, and self-discovery are. Liam Evans, the Knights’ quarterback, has been quietly in love with Demi for five years. When he first noticed her, she was married, and Liam respected that boundary without hesitation. Now that she’s single, his feelings haven’t faded, but he understands she isn’t ready. Instead of pushing, Liam chooses patience. If friendship is all she can offer, he’ll take it, grateful just to have her in his life. As Demi and Liam spend time together, a genuine friendship forms, one built on trust, laughter, and emotional safety. Slowly, inevitably, the lines begin to blur. But Demi’s past looms large. Her marriage taught her that loving someone often meant losing herself, and that fear keeps her from fully opening her heart again. The question isn’t whether Liam is worthy of her love, it’s whether she can believe that this time will be different.

Liam is a standout MMC, emotionally intelligent, self-aware, and refreshingly vulnerable. Despite being the kind of man every woman dreams of, he carries deep scars from a childhood marked by emotional abuse and suffocating expectations. His father, a former football star, placed unbearable pressure on him, leaving wounds Liam is still actively working through. What makes Liam so compelling is that he doesn’t pretend to be healed, he goes to therapy, confronts his trauma in real time, and works daily to love himself better. His softness, emotional fluency, and unwavering respect for Demi challenge every stereotype of what a football hero is supposed to be. Demi is equally powerful as an FMC. Her journey is one many women will recognize, choosing herself after years of being last. Her divorce wasn’t just the end of a marriage, it was an act of self-preservation. Watching her slowly reclaim her confidence, learn to trust her instincts again, and allow herself to want more is both moving and empowering. Her hesitation with Liam feels honest, not frustrating, and her eventual vulnerability is earned.

In conclusion, I gave this book 5 stars because what makes Pass Rush especially satisfying is how beautifully it mirrors the themes woven throughout the entire series. Time and again, these men become cinnamon rolls for the women they love, while the women step into their power, fight for their dreams, and learn to believe in themselves. Liam and Demi embody that balance perfectly, two people healing individually while learning how to build something together. As the final installment, Pass Rush is bittersweet in the best way. Saying goodbye to these characters is hard, but Erin McKenzie delivers a deeply satisfying conclusion that honors their growth and the emotional journeys readers have followed from the beginning. This book is a reminder that love doesn’t have to come at the cost of one's self, and sometimes, the strongest relationships are built when both people have already chosen themselves first.

[Karina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm going to be honest. The book was ok, not great. I was expecting more in general. I started this series being in love with Abby and Ford. There was chemistry, passion, and spice, and it was told at a medium to fast pace. And as each book went on, it felt like it got slower. However, it felt as if the book was building a foundation.
Nate and Mia had been friends for years, and the tension between them grew until finally, FINALLY, something happened: they were able to open up to each other, be honest about their feelings, and take things to the physical side.
Similarly, Summer and Chase had known each other for years, and there was a crush and something to build off of, plus they had the added hurdle of a child in the mix now. I understood why their love story took a bit to take off, given that both characters were hesitant.
Liam and Demi were a clean slate... similar to Ford and Abby, so I was expecting lots of flirting and getting to know each other on a new level, which would allow us, the reader, to get to know them. However, that was not the case. I felt that the story was very slow, and we were given breadcrumbs with the characters.

Liam: We knew enough about him on a friendship level from the previous three books through the lens of his friendships with Ford, Nate, and Chase. I enjoyed him as he seemed upbeat and optimistic. He seemed like the life of the party, which told me that once we got to his story, we were going to see layers to him. In this, Erin did not disappoint. Liam is a complex character, shaped by his childhood and his difficult relationship with his father. I wish we had more insight into the relationship with his mother and brother. I would have enjoyed seeing a bit more about his interactions with them and how that shaped him as an adult. It's very clear that Liam's personality was shaped by his father and that he carries a lot of baggage.

Demi: I wanted so much information on her. I felt we were given teeny-tiny bits of her, and most of it is present-day, along with some baggage from her marriage. I wanted the background of how and, specifically, why she got together with Brandon in the first place. What was it like working in her field while being married to a pro athlete? How did she get into sports journalism? Was it because of her family, was she an athlete, or did she love sports?

I had such a huge smile on my face every time I read from Liam's POV for the first 30-40% of the book but it slowly started to fade when I saw how long it was taking for Demi and Liam to gravitate together. I was expecting more yearning, more angst, more tension. I enjoyed that they were so comfortable and calm around each other, but it just meant that, when they finally did get together (super late in the book), I was already tired of waiting, and it didn't feel as satisfying because there was very little build-up.

As for the side characters...specifically Ford and Abby. I hated that their journey was an afterthought. I know the book isn't about them, but they are part of the friend group, and their struggles were summarized in a paragraph almost 92% into the book.

Overall, I thought the story was ok and a good ending to the entire series, but I just needed MORE!

[Ashley Merwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
Release Date 2-5-2026

You’ll Find
🏈Quarterback x Reporter
💚Workplace Romance
🏈Reformed Playboy
💚Slow Burn
🏈He Falls First & Hard
💚Mental Health Rep
🏈Football Romance


I love every single book in this series, and I’m so emotional that it's over!! This can be read as a standalone however, I would encourage you to read the series in order to get the full effect of every story as they appear as side characters in the other stories.

Liam is the hotshot quarterback and he has been in love with Demi for years. When they met she was engaged (and then married) and very off limits. Everyone knew about his crush, but he was respectful and tried to move on with his life earning a playboy reputation in the process. When he finds out her marriage is over and she is divorced, everything changes for him and he quits dating all together and waits for his chance to prove to her she should give them a chance.

Demi is a sports reporter. Being a woman in the field is tough, but she is such a powerhouse! She has made her own way in the field and worked so hard to get to where she is and she doesn't want to complicate things by dating an athlete. She’s hesitant to love after her recent divorce and has never truly been alone or had anything for herself.

Liam and Demi were so sweet they melted my heart! Liam and his actions to show Demi he is all in had me smiling and kicking my feet! He never shied away from his feelings and was always honest and open with her. My man was down bad from the very beginning. He isn’t shy about the fact that he knows she is end game for him, but always puts the ball in her court and follows her lead.
The mental health rep in this book is really well done and this theme runs through the series as a whole. Both main characters feel like real people, and so much care is taken to show their struggles in a way that is respectful and real. They become each other’s safe place, while also normalizing therapy and having more than one person to share with. Demi’s reflections on the end of her marriage hit hard. She knew it was over long before she left, and that’s such a real experience for so many people. Sometimes we try so hard to fix things that were already broken, even when it’s not our responsibility. Liam's struggles lie with his parents (mostly his dad) and the struggle to live up to constant comparisons and judgement.

Erin Mackenzie absolutely nailed the finale of this series. Tears were had in that final scene, but also lots of smiles. You need to read it.

*Thank you so much to the Erin Mackenzie for the opportunity to ARC read this book!

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Every time I see her, I just can’t believe there’s someone this beautiful alive at the same time as me and I get to even be in her presence, let alone be her friend.”

✔️football romance
✔️quarterback x reporter
✔️workplace
✔️reformed playboy
✔️slow burn
✔️he falls first & hard
✔️mental health rep

I have loved every book in this series, and this one was no exception. Though this can be read as a standalone, I would encourage you to read the series in order to get the full story of this found family coming together and see Liam (MMC) pine for Demi (FMC) from afar when they are side characters in the other stories. He has been in love with her for years, even though she was engaged when they met (and then married) and very off limits. Everyone knew about his crush, but he was very respectful and tried to move on with his life (and earned a playboy reputation in the process). When he finds out her marriage is over and she is divorced, everything changes and he is ready to continue waiting for her and pursue getting to know her better. He knows she is the one, but she isn’t so sure.

If there is one word I could use to describe the love in this book it would be gentle. Liam is so gentle with Demi’s heart, and he is so sincere and kind. He isn’t shy about the fact that he knows she is endgame for him, but always puts the ball in her court and follows her lead. He will take friendship if that’s all she can/wants to give him, but no matter what he will be there for her. The mental health rep in this book is really well done, and I like that there is such a big emphasis placed on mental health for professional athletes. This topic runs through the series as a whole, and I appreciate how obviously this author is passionate about the subject. Both main characters feel like real people, and so much care is taken to show their struggles in a way that is respectful and real. They become each other’s safe place, while also normalizing therapy and having more than one person to share with.

This book is for those who love a man who is down bad and will do everything and anything to show his woman (even though she isn’t is for a long time, this is definitely a slow burn) how much he really, truly sees her.


*Thank you so much to the author (Erin Mackenzie) for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*

[Julia Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was thrilled to have received an ARC copy of this book. Go easy on me, this was my first ever ARC and the first review I’ve ever written. My love for books (specifically sports romance) is still new although I’ve somehow managed to read over 100 books in a year so it must be an obsession now!

I was captivated by the first 3 books in this series. Erin did a fantastic job creating a passionate, forbidden and obsessive love between Ford & Abby. She sucked us in from the beginning, leaving us wanting more (which she gave us by creating individual love stories involving real life challenges and obstacles for the characters to overcome).

Liam was a present force throughout the series and we were all waiting for him to get his turn at love which was delivered in such a strong way with Pass Rush.

SLOW BURN…that’s the best way I can describe this book. As I read each chapter I was yearning for more. At times I was aggravated that Demi wasn’t seeing what was right in front of her but she was so broken and needed to figure out how to trust again. Liam was so patient. It’s like he knew if he gave her the space she needed to find herself, that in the end, she’d pick him.

I loved the friendship between Summer and Liam. Summer is fiercely protective of Liam. Of all the friends, you knew their relationship was the strongest. She saw him for who he was and wanted so badly for him to find the kind of love she has with Chase. She was not afraid to speak the truth to Demi and I think some of Summers words are what finally sealed the deal for Demi.

A man who waits for his happiness is a man I want by my side. Liam is ridiculously hot in so many ways but his sexiest quality was his patience for the love he always wanted.

I am sad to see this series end but Erin’s stories will forever live with me. I’ll likely reread these books again in the future just to remember what obsession looks like. Pass Rush won’t disappoint. This is really a 4.5 star and the only reason I’m not giving it a 5 star is because I wish it had more spice 😂😂 great book Erin and thank you again for letting me be a part of the ARC team.

[Katie Thayer · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨
Pass Rush
(Out Of Bound Series Book 4)
By Erin Mackenzie

She smiles. And it’s something else. She’s something else. Just being around her makes me want to freeze time so I can stay in these moments with her for as long as possible.

I can’t remember the last time I think I felt sexy, but every time I’m around Liam that’s the word that pops in my mind. I feel confident and good about myself most of the time, but he takes it to another level. The way he stares at me, longs for me almost—I always thought someone’s attention like that would make me uncomfortable, but it’s the complete opposite.

“I know there’s this narrative that I’m some playboy who dates around—and yeah, maybe that was true for a bit. I was trying to find you in any woman I spent time with, but from the second I found out you were divorced I haven’t been with anyone since. I knew if anyone was ever dumb enough to lose you, I’d wait for my chance. And hope like hell to get one. I’ve always just been waiting for you.”

Oh My God!! Liam and Demi have melted my heart! I needed this ray of sunshine so very much! These two are perfect examples of mental health representation. And in the world these days it was so refreshing to read their
perspective with therapy.
I couldn’t stop smiling and swooning over Liam and his actions to show Demi he is all in! He never shied away. Was always honest and so
Down bad for Demi from the very beginning. Demi is on her own for the first time since her divorce. Seeing how she continues to grow,
push herself and find her happiness, it so inspiring! I love this series so much and this book was well worth the wait! So sad this series is over but thank you Erin for giving
us these characters and their stories. It’s a fabulous ride!

Tropes:
Quarterback x Reporter
Football Romance
He Falls First
Workplace Romance
Mental Health Rep
Reformed Playboy
Love After Divorce

Spice Starts at: 68%

Spice: 2/4
Stars: 5/5

Available on Kindle Unlimited

[Danielle Paschka · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so sad that the Out of Bounds series has come to a close. The first book Line of Scrimmage was my first ARC ever & since reading that I’ve been an Erin fan for life!
I loved getting to know Demi & Liam on a new level. They have such a beautiful story & I liked how we got to see the progression of their friendship & his obsession with her.. everything fell into place & so much of it made sense after getting the progression of their relationship over the years.

I’ve wanted Liam’s story from the beginning & I really loved him so much more after reading this book. So many times I just wanted to give him a hug when he battled his inner trauma from his dad & him thinking he always needed to be the happy, go lucky guy when there was things he was hurting with inside. I loved his group text with the other girls in their group (who we’ve met in the past books in this series).

Demi is such a baddie. I feel like that is such a good word to describe her. She is finding her feet again after a divorce. Trying to find her own happiness, realize that she does & SHOULD get certain things in life — she deserves so much & it’s wonderful when she realizes she does in fact deserve it!

A wonderful slow burn & Liam giving Demi all the time she needed was really great to see. I feel we don’t see that a lot in books. Forever love the found family in this book because I honestly have so many friends that I’m closer with than my own family & sometimes that’s just how it works out — love that Erin created that in this book.

I forever will say read this series by Erin & enjoy all the wonderful different stories of the characters that I will always remember!

Tropes: Football Romance, Workplace Romance, MMC Obsessed, Slow Burn, Mental Health Rep, Neighbors to Lovers & More.

You can find Pass Rush & the rest of the Out of Bounds series on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited.

[Gabriella · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book follows Liam Evans, quarterback for Tampa, and Demi Sanchez, sideline sports reporter, and overall badass! Demi and Liam met at an event when Demi was engaged to another man. Liam was smitten from the jump, but knew he would never have a chance. About 5 years later, Demi is single and needs a place to live in the coming months. Liam sees a chance, and now Demi is his neighbor. With the forced proximity, growing crushes, and a yearning man that only exists in books, will they be able to move forward? Find out on February 5th!

Liam was such a sweetie pie! At every turn, he had figured out a new way to be a good partner to Demi without stepping on her independent toes. He worked to be open about his life and share with Demi, which led to her sharing in turn. The slow burn is there to build trust, and Liam did a fantastic job of it. Demi was slow to trust, and for good reason. I completely understood why she may feel like Liam is just doing these things because he's a flirt or because he's got a tiny crush, but it was always more than that. He stepped up to say that and show that daily.

I really liked Demi, and that she was most concerned for her job and for her mental health when experiencing love after divorce. Even more than that, love after a traumatic relationship. I struggled a bit towards the end just because I was CRUSHED for Liam. My heart was aching for the man but in the end, it obviously worked out!! Overall though, she is a fantastic female character. She's driven and motivated to continue to pursue the field she loves throughout the whole book, and that is one of my favorite qualities of an FMC.

As this is the last book, I had a feeling we would see more of our found family but I was left with more questions about Ford and Abby. This isn't to say every book has to end perfectly, but I was really hoping that after all the hints in 'The Playbook', there would be more answers? IDK! That is completely personal and it's probably just because I have a DEEP love and appreciation of Ford and Abby.

In the end, this did end the series quite well, and I feel so honored to have read this book. Thank you to Erin MacKenzie and her team for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Minnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

4.5⭐|2🌶|6%🌶frequency

It felt like I waited as long for this book as Liam waited for Demi. OK, OK, OK, no, I didn't wait 5 years. I also said it FELT LIKE 😉 But it's since book 2 of this series that I just needed Liam and Demi's book 😁 This is not a criticism of the author, just me being impatient 🙈
In Germany, we have a saying (or two). "When patience was being handed out, I was stuck in traffic, honking my horn." Or alternate "When patience was being handed out, I left, it was taking too long." So, yes, that's definitely me! 😎

But every second waiting was absolutely worth it 🩷 It's such a great book. I'm so in love with Liam 😍 He's definitely better with his patience than me 🤣 I absolutely admire him for it. It's definitely something more ppl should have, yes, me included 😎

And yes, I'm also in love with Demi. She is a strong woman. Yes, she made mistakes, and some would say that it's a sign of a strong woman, just 🤐! She IS strong. She's a woman in a man's world. She did everything on her own. And yes, she changed her life by herself, too!

I'll so miss this gang because that's the last book in this series. It's such a wonderful family bond they all have, even though they aren't real family. In my opinion, that's the best family ever 🩷


Thanks to the author for trusting me with an ARC 🩷


Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review
Thank you to the author for this ARC of Pass Rush

"But I needed that rain That storm in my personal life to realize how badly I needed the sun."

I fell in love with Demi immediately. She is very relatable and also such a boss with her job. I understood the walls she had to build around herself and how hard it is to also break it down. When she finally lets herself be vulnerable with Liam, I just wanted to give her a hug. Liam was really the sunshine she needed.

"I have a Demi-graphic memory."

Liam is just a ball of unfiltered sunshine. AND I LOVE HIM. He was so steadfast with his feelings for Demi. He never wavered and goodness when he flirts, he FLIRTS. He is the definition of unconditional love. I really admired his willingness to work out his emotions in therapy and his devotion to his friends. His friendship with Summer had me all in the feels.

"Even golden retrievers get sad sometimes."

I really loved Demi and Liam's story. Despite their own personal struggles, I thought it was really important that they acknowledged each other as being a safe space. I was worried that Liam would come off too strong but he let Demi process her feelings and he knew when to step back. They also had the love and support from their friends and Liam's speech at the end had me all teary-eyed.

"Yesterday, today, tomorrow. Forever Dem. Even if you never love me a day in your life, I love you."

[Chelsea Mansell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pass Rush by Erin Mackenzie eARC Review
Out of Bounds Series Book 4

I loved this book with my whole entire heart. I have been anxiously awaiting Liam and Demi’s story and it was better than I ever could have imagined.

This story is so real and raw. Liam has such a pure heart, he is an honest to goodness golden retriever with the absolute sweetest soul. Demi is such a powerhouse of a woman who is independent and strong and learning to navigate life as a newly divorced woman.

Liam has had his eye on Demi from the moment they met. He is patient and waits literally years before making his move. Their love story is the sweetest. They both battle some inner demons and the way they feel safe with one another and are able to open up and be vulnerable, it made my heart so happy.

The found family is fantastic in this series and I loved seeing our OG couples again.

This book was exactly what I needed right now. It made my heart happy, I was smiling and giddy the entire time I was reading. Erin’s writing is so beautiful and from the moment I started the book I was completely and utterly invested in their story.

What to expect:
Football romance
Workplace romance
He falls first
Mental health rep
He’s obsessed
Love after divorce
Reformed playboy

Thank you so much Erin for the arc!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review
First off I would like to thank @erinmackenzie.author for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Demi & Liam
This book was the absolute best way to end a series! Y'all I'm obsessed with them, I adore them both so much and absolutely adore the fact that they both were the others safe space. I love how vulnerable they were with themselves and with each other. I love that Liam wanted Demi from the moment he met her and held on to hope that he would get his chance & when he did he showed up for her in every way she needed and never once hesitated to do something for her. I love that Demi worked so hard to make something of her self in a male dominant workplace, and just finally stand on our own two feet and find herself again. I loved that she showed up for Liam and never hesitated to make him feel understood and seen. These two were the perfect balance to the other and I absolutely love how they both talked about their mental health.

5/5 Recommend this book. Y'all I absolutely love Erin's work and the way she writes such beautiful heartfelt stories and makes you see that sometimes family is who you choose and sometimes you're born into a good one. I love how she's open and honest with mental health throughout her books and it's so beautifully done. Also I'm excited for what ever is next to come 

[Lucy-Elanor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pass Rush is the fourth installment in the Out of Bounds series which follows four members of the Tampa football team.

Liam, the team’s quarterback, has not so subtly pined after Demi (sports journalist) since the day he met her. He’s respected her marriage and kept his distance but that doesn’t mean his longing stares have gone unnoticed. Once he finds out she’s divorced her cheating ex husband, he’s ready to show her the love she deserves.

Demi has walls up, she’s been treated badly in the past and Liam’s reputation as a superficial playboy makes her want to keep her distance but she is also lonely, missing her family back home and finding her place again as a new independent woman.

Is Demi ready to trust again? Can Liam prove to her he’s not the playboy in the headlines?

Watching the friendship blossom between Liam and Demi grow from cautious, small interactions into one of secure confidant (“baggage for baggage?”) there’s a soft tenderness to both of them and a deep desire to be loved.

I really enjoyed the comparison between Demi’s family, who are geographically distant but emotionally close, her mum in particular who is at the end of the phone ready to counsel and listen and Liam’s found family with his team mates and their wives whose warmth and love envelope Liam and bring him into that cosy family settings he’s lacked through his life.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so sad to see this series come to an end! I have been fortunate to Beta and ARC read this whole series, and I've been able to see firsthand the growth Erin has had an author. She had me hooked from the very beginning with Ford & Abby's story, and each book just got better and better. She absolutely saved the best for last with Liam & Demi, because these two were ELECTRIC!

Liam Evans, the absolute simp of a man that you are!! If you're looking for a book with a man who years, let it be this one. This man waited FIVE YEARS for Demi, secretly pining for her from the sidelines. He was attentive to her every need, remembered every little detail about her, and when the time finally came, he took his shot and held on so tight.

Demi Sanchez is legit everything. After her divorce, she is learning that it's okay to do the things that make you happy, without having to answer to anyone. I loved watching her growth and healing throughout this book, and the way she allowed herself to be fully loved the way she deserved to be.

As always, Erin does such an incredible job writing Mental Health topics into her books, which is so important. And it's not that she just writes them in, she gives you a storyline that is relatable.

This is such a bittersweet ending, but I am so excited to see what is next for Erin because I know it's going to be absolutely amazing!

[Jenise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t want this book—or this series—to end. Every single book in this series was so good: the friend group, the couples, everything. But saving Liam and Demi’s story for last? That was the cherry on top. Liam has officially stolen my whole heart (I’m so sorry, Nate!).

Erin truly writes some of the best football romance out there. As a huge football fan, I loved how real everything felt—both on and off the field. Reading this series, you don’t just imagine the games… you feel like you’re there. Every game day played so clearly in my mind. Add in the romance, deep friendships, and real-life hardships, and it delivers all the feels.

Liam and Demi’s love story was beautiful. For Demi, it’s a second chance at love—most importantly, with herself. I absolutely adored her. She’s my favorite FMC in the entire series. I related to her so deeply. She’s resilient, strong, and honestly? A true superwoman.

And Liam… this man and his golden-retriever energy 🥹 He is something special. He never once gave up on what he believed in—Demi. Watching their love grow throughout the story was incredibly heartfelt. I cried happy tears and heartache tears because these two felt so real. The perfect final piece to this friend group.

And can we talk about the group chats? Because I lived for them! 🫶🏼

Thank you Erin for allowing me to get a first read on this final book in the series. I loved it so much 🤍

[Gretchen (we_read_past_our_bedtime)]

FULL ARC REVIEW:
Pass Rush by Erin Mackenzie
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

There’s something so special about a love that doesn’t crash into your life loudly—but instead settles in, steady and sure, until you realize you can finally breathe.

Liam is the hotshot quarterback who’s had his eyes on Demi for years, and make no mistake—he’s a goner. Completely. Undeniably. He’s spent his whole life bottling everything up, keeping his emotions locked down tight for the press, the fans, the image. But Demi shows him that emotions don’t cancel each other out. You can be strong and vulnerable. You don’t always have to wear the happy face.

Football has been the longest relationship of Liam’s life, but he knows it isn’t forever. He wants Demi more than any jersey, any legacy, any spotlight—and that choice meant everything to me. # SWOON

Demi, is trapped behind the walls she built after her divorce. Watching Liam break through those walls—forcing her to be present, to say what she’s thinking, to trust again—was beautiful. This was healing love. Intentional love.

And as a finale? Absolute perfection.

This group of eight friends turned found family gave us stories filled with love, grief, mental health struggles, growth, and heart. Erin Mackenzie wrapped this series up in the most meaningful way.

Pass Rush is a reminder to find someone who loves you for who you are—not for what you can give them, not for what you can do for them, not for the life they expect you to fit into.

What a way to say goodbye to the Out of Bounds series. 💚🏈✨

[Joan | We Read Past Our Bedtime · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC REVIEW✨

⭐️: 4.5
🌶️: 2

💭: That’s officially a wrap on the Out of Bounds Series by Erin Mackenzie, and WOW — she truly went out with a bang. This is hands-down my favorite book in the series. While I was sad to say goodbye, it was the perfect ending. 🏈

Liam is so unapologetically down bad for Demi, even when she’s off-limits at first. To the outside world, he’s charismatic, anti-commitment, and one of the hottest QBs in football — but with Demi, he peels back every layer to show himself. He’s patient. Devoted. A listener. Fully all in. And honestly? Demi deserves exactly that kind of love.

Demi is guarded — rightfully so. Watching Liam slowly chip away at her walls and make her feel safe for the first time in a long while was everything. They balanced each other beautifully, and I was silently begging Demi to let those walls down just a little faster so Liam could show her how incredible he truly is. They say good things come to those who wait… and holy hell, did Liam wait. 😮‍💨🔥

If you’re looking for a sports romance with forced proximity, spice, yearning, and a boy absolutely obsessed, add Pass Rush to your TBR immediately. And don’t forget to check out Liam’s teammates in books 1–3 to complete the full Knights Football experience.

Thank you for giving us OOB, Erin Mackenzie — can’t wait to see what’s next(was that a hint in the epilogue🧐).

[Laura (Lauras_Book_Shelf22) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my favourite of the Out of Bounds series - which is such a hard thing to say because the whole series is just amazing.

Liam and Demi…These two are just incredibly special. He has been OBSESSED for so long, and honestly? His patience really pays off.

Demi, our strong, sassy team reporter, is hiding a whole host of hurt, and it was the sweetest thing watching Liam make her feel safe enough to open up and share her trauma. Liam has his own issues and the way it was dealt with, was so sensitive and on point, his bravery to face it and deal with it 🥹

Although I loved Liam, like, the most, Demi completely stole my heart. Her decision not to have children and the conversations she has to endure because of that choice hit so close to home for me… immediate tears.

Even with some heavier moments, this story felt so heartwarming and full of love. I’m incredibly sad to be saying goodbye to another series filled with genuinely favourite characters. I’ve loved every single one.

I love Erin’s writing and I’m already so excited for what’s coming next - it’s going to be amazing.

Thank you so much to the author for the arc💕

[Jessica Harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy release day! 🥳

Erin, you truly nailed it with Demi and Liam. They were written so perfectly.

Demi—I just adored her. She’s such a relatable character, and I generally enjoyed her growth throughout the book. She really blossomed with her confidence. Liam had it down bad from the start. He’s such a stand-up guy, and that’s just scratching the surface. If you were to open a dictionary next to the definition of a cinnamon roll/golden retriever, I’m convinced his picture would be right there! They really were the “right person, but wrong time.”

I loved this read because it highlighted the importance of communication and mental health. Thank you for showing that just because you exude being a positive and outgoing happy person on the outside, does not mean that your aren’t battling your own turmoil inside. That it’s okay to seek help and it doesn’t make you weak. The safe space they created for each other was just perfectly written. They both had such turbulent pasts that they deserved to find their calm love.

It’s bittersweet having another one of my favorite sports series closing its chapter, but I’m so grateful Erin shared these characters with us.

Until next time🫶🏾

[ashley 🎀 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Erin, my girl, WHAT DID YOU PUT IN THIS ONE? I didn’t think that anything could top the other books in the series and then you gave us Liam and Demi and my heart is a freaking PUDDLE!

Liam is the sweetest most loving guy of all time. He’s worked SO hard in life to let his light shine and he does it so well. He’s a hugeee mental health/therapy rep 👏🏼 I love seeing this throughout Erin’s books! It’s so encouraging to have it talked about in a way that feels normal and healthy. He’s wanted Demi since the moment he saw her and he waits so incredibly patiently for the moment that he can hopefully win her over someday. 😭

Demi is.. gosh, she’s just the best. She has an incredible, powerful job in sports reporting and seeing woman represented in sports was such a fresh spin on a sports romance! Little by little she lets Liam chip away at her hard build walls and they are actually just perfect for each other!

What a beautiful series 😭 I’m going to go cry in a corner now that it’s over 🥹 thank you for taking us all along on this ride. It’s been magical.

[Sweet treats and Smutty reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pass Rush by Erin Mackenzie is book 4 in her Out of Bounds series. It was the perfect finale to wrap up the football friend group.

Liam may have been portrayed as a playboy, but that man is anything but. When he met Demi five years ago he became enamored. Demi however, was with someone else. So he bided his time and when he saw an opening the man took it.

Demi, newly single, is ready to live her life on her terms. She has no desire to settle down. But when the quarterback who has always been friendly becomes more, will she choose to stay away?

I loved these two. I loved their friendship turned passion on fire. The mutual respect and honesty they had with each other was refreshing. The two shared deep conversations and vulnerability in times where it might’ve been easier to keep their thoughts and feelings internalized.

This is an excellent workplace romance where he not only falls first, but falls hard and fast. And thank you Erin for shedding light that just because you’re in your mid thirties does not mean you need to have your life figured out.

[Hayley Gentry · Rating 5 out of 5]

When he is *simply* GONE for her 😍

What an honor it was to be able to read Liam + Demi’s story- I’ll never get over how amazing it is to be an arc reader.

This series has been one of my favorite sport romance series, each couple has been so special to me and Liam and Demi closed out this series perfectly.

There’s something to be said about a man who is a top notch gentleman but also is so upfront about his feelings and not at all concerned about laying it all out there. That’s Liam. He waited patiently for his chance to shoot his shot with Demi and she made him work for it but it was so worth it in the end. It was always her for him.

I loved Demi’s story and the depth her character brought to their story. Both Liam and Demi had their own battles they were navigating but how refreshing it is to find THAT person that you just know you can lean on and show all your scars to, knowing they will keep you safe.

All the swoon. All the stars.

Highly recommend this entire Out of Bounds series!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

such a feel good story but with real topics

I’ve been waiting for Liam’s story since we first met him in Book 1 of Erin’s Out of Bounds series! He’s the ‘hotshot’ quarterback that has only ever had eyes for Demi Sanchez; the ball-buster sideline reporter for the team.
Demi is recently divorced from a Basketball player that never treated her well, so that, combined with past traumas, she understandably has walls up. She has a soft spot for Liam though, and that shows through their banter in the book.
I just loved their chemistry. Liam is the biggest waving green flag and such a golden retriever. Demi is first in everything he does, even when they’re aren’t together. They calm each others internal storms and are the safe space for each other to land. I loved this story. It just spoke to my heart and even in the tough moments, it just made me feel all the feels!
Do yourself a favour and read this book and check out the other four books in Erin’s Out of Bounds series!

[Romance_book_obsessed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much Mackenzie for this ARC 🏈

I can’t believe this is the end of this series! Starting with Ford and Abby, I loved every couple!

Liam has had a crush on Demi since the day they met, but she was engaged. Now, 5 years later she’s divorced. Liam wants to take the chance to catch his dream girl. They form a friendship, then benefits.

Liam was so vulnerable and working on his emotions due to his father. His football career is great but he’s been waiting for his partner.

Demi is a sports reporter. Being a woman in the field is tough, especially if you date an athlete. She’s hesitant to love due to her recent divorce. She has some work to do before she jumps into a new relationship. But love waits for no one!

I love how obsessed and honest Liam was with Demi. He was so patient, even if it broke his own heart. I really wanted to see more happy endings for the friend group (Ford and Abby especially) but maybe we can have an extended epilogue in the future!

[Beth Zaragoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5

• NFL QB x sideline reporter
• found family
• mental health rep
• life after divorce
• so much banter
• neighbors

Liam and Demi were the perfect ending to the OOB series. I loved knowing they were coming and Erin didn’t disappoint in her writing of their story.

We knew Liam through the other Tampa Bay Knights stories and we’ve met Demi previously as well. We all knew how smitten Liam was with her but was respectful and kind to her, knowing she was engaged and then married… and then divorced.

These characters are both up in their feelings and working through their past relationship trauma (Liam with his dad and Demi with her exhusband). Yet these two both feel so safe with each other and want to share themselves with each other.

I love love love their growth, their love, and their banter.

Thanks for the ARC, Erin. This book unsurprisingly exceeded my expectations 🏈🎤🤎