Offside

Villalargos University #2

by Luna K. Wicked

Coming soon...

Genres: M M Romance, Dark Romance, Audiobook, LGBT, Dark, Secret Society, Romance

316 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 5, 2026

Reviews

[Momma Eureka · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

I finished yesterday but was too angry to write a review!

THIS IS NOT A STANDALONE! YOU MUST READ PLAY DIRTY FIRST TO THEN READ THIS ONE!!!!

We are back to the FUCKING CAMPUS OF HELL where things are not what they seem. Where everyone lies and wears a mask. Where the secrets are DISGUSTING, MAKES YOU UNCOMFORTABLE AND WANTING TO DIE! Where the riches are cruel and the poor are the ones paying the price and WHERE EVERYONE PLAYS DIRTY !!!!

God damn it I honestly don’t know what to say besides that Luna has my entire black heart 🖤 I haven’t read a book from her when my heart wasn’t racing out of my chest.
I FUCKING HATE the people in this book, I HATE this college, I HATE the lies, I HATE the pretending and I just want someone to record everything and throw online so the world can see it. DONE ! I solved the plot. 😂 but of course that’s not what Luna does, she likes to make us SUFFER, she likes to pull all emotions out of our chests and she likes to make us angry.
I cannot tell you how many times I just wanted to KILL Tiago ! I got so angry at him …… I knew he was working an angle there but GOD FUCKING DAMN IT !!!!!!!
If you want to be enraged but also extremely invested and intrigued, please pick this series up and you won’t regret. I can’t wait for Wyatt’s book, he is so sadistic and I love it !

[Rae Quigley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Luna knocks it out of the park every single time. This was such a fun sequel, and the twists just kept on coming. This had a KILLER cliffhanger, and a few moments toward the end had me actually gasping out loud.

This one was definitely a bit more confusing, though. I didn’t feel the vibes of T and Z’s POVs like I was hoping I would, and I had a hard time following certain moments. Their chemistry is off the charts, though, and im so excited to see where everything goes from here after all these crazy reveals.

[Mihaela · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC read! 📚 This book is dark, gritty, and packed with heavy themes—so definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in. The tension, raw possessiveness and sheer angst between Zayden and Thiago is incredible. The secret society they’re part of is basically a dangerous game of chess where everyone plays dirty, and the characters are constantly forced to choose between loyalty and survival. Saying all that it’s just not my favourite trope so - 3 ⭐️.
But if you’re up for a dark, twisted clusterf*ck of a story and enjoy the secret society part - this one is for you.

[Eliza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook 5⭐️
Spice 2 🌶️
Story 4.5 ⭐️

Offside by Luna K. Wicked is the second book in the Villalargos University series.

Welcome back to the Dark Gossip Girl, where the twisted society delivers the most intense and captivating secrets. This time, we are following the story of Tiago and Zayden, which provides us with captivating tension, and the games played have the highest stakes. This story is angsty, chaotic, obsessive, and dark. What would you do to protect the one you love? Luna is a mastermind when it comes to character development, and she shows it in every single story she gives us. I can, for the first time, check lavender marriage trope off my list. Thank you, Luna, for popping that cherry.

Also that ending?!?!? What the f***, Luna?! Give me book three right now!!!

Audiobook: duet narration by E. Montoya, Oscar Reyes and Niaa Drisyk. They have done an amazing job bringing this character to life, was the perfect combination with amazing delivery!

[Kenia Coronado · Rating 3 out of 5]

makes me sad this wasn’t my favorite.

Ive loved everything ive read from luna but i had a hard time connecting to the stories and the characters on this one.

[SAV · Rating 4 out of 5]

Luna K Wicked does it again with another amazing book! The plot is so gripping and you just want to keep reading so you can find out what’s going on, I literally felt like I was in pretty little liars but MM and it was so nice seeing the other characters from the first book and what happened to them. Also the audiobook makes this whole experience even better 😍

[Tabatha_Reads_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great! Riddled with twists and turns, and so much toxicity but I couldn’t get enough! I was definitely questioning my own likes and interests after reading this one. Luna truly delivered on the dark romance, secret society, pet x handler, and plenty of tension and spice. I loved the suspense, the shocking reveals, and was definitely in my feels getting to know these characters. The dynamics between the main characters was at times very maddening, but I feel that you kind of should expect some of that from the damage and brokenness that was experienced. This book does leave us on a cliffhanger, so I can’t wait to get the next one!

[InkedSirenXO · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Advance Copy received from Author

“In Villalargos, love isn’t the goal… it’s the weapon.” And this book proves it from the very first page.

Offside is a dark, addictive ride through a world where secrets are currency, loyalty is constantly tested, and love is the most dangerous game anyone can play. Luna K. Wicked masterfully weaves tension, obsession, and emotional chaos into a story that had me glued to the pages from beginning to end.

Thiago Safra and Zayden Orozco are magnetic characters whose layers unfold with every chapter. Neither man is exactly what he seems, and watching their secrets collide created the kind of suspense that keeps you saying, “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s 3 a.m. Their chemistry is electric, their dynamic is complicated, and every interaction feels loaded with hidden motives and impossible choices.

What I loved most was the atmosphere of Villalargos itself. The setting feels alive, drenched in mystery, power plays, and the constant sense that disaster is waiting just around the corner. Every revelation hit hard, and the twists kept me second-guessing everything I thought I knew.

This story is dark, emotional, and beautifully messy in all the best ways. If you enjoy morally gray characters, dangerous secrets, high-stakes romance, and plot twists that leave your jaw on the floor, Offside deserves a spot at the top of your TBR.

A ruthless game of love, lies, and obsession where nobody walks away unchanged… and I couldn’t get enough of it.

[Torylee Abrams · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 ⭐️ 2.5/5 🌶

Where do I even begin?! I fucking LOVE Offside. Offside is such an incredible follow up to Play Dirty and completely just exceeds expectations. The plot really thickens in book two and grabs ahold of you and literally doesn’t want to let go. It’s addictive as hell and I felt like I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
Big secrets are revealed in scandalous ways and at this point you truly can’t trust anyone. I couldn’t tell you how many times I audibly gasped and sent crash out messages.
Offside focuses on Thiago & Zayden and I swear they will become your newest obsession. The angst and tension between the two of them is EVERYTHING... Offside is definitely one of those books where hidden moments and fights are hitting just as hard as those spicy scenes. And let me tell you those scenes are 😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨 Luna never disappoints with her spice.
And can we talk about that damn ending and that EPILOGUE?!?! I swear I wasn’t ready! Even though i beta read offside that ending stilllll had me clutching my chest. Talk about a gnarly cliffhanger that will literally have you foaming at the mouth for book three.
You want serious sexual tension, forbidden lovers, secret societies, andddddd a little lavender marriage?! 👀 then I’m really going to need you to enter the world of Villalargos. Trust me, it’s worth all the emotional damage. 😏

[BlackDahlia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was from an ARC read I had the privilege of being apart of, this review is in my own opinion

"Love isn't the goal... It's the weapon."

Review for Offside (Villalargo University, Book 2) by Luna K. Wicked
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you haven’t read Play Dirty yet, fix your TBR immediately—you cannot start Offside without it! But once you're caught up? Get ready, because the roller coaster you're about to board is beautifully broken and twisted in all the best ways.
If you thought book one was a jaw-dropping "WTF" ride, Offside will leave you absolutely breathless and begging for answers. Zayden and Thiago’s story is the epitome of enemies-to-lovers. The anger, the grit, and the intoxicating lust between them is so captivating you can't look away, even when it hurts.
Luna K. Wicked has this incredible ability to wrap your heart in her hands and crush it, yet somehow leaves you thanking her for it.
Note: Make sure to check the trigger warnings if you need to (I’m a "read blindly" kind of reader, but they are there!). And whatever you do... do NOT skip that epilogue. It is unforgettable.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book just as much as the first one! The tension between Thiago and Zayden? The secrets? The suspense? The spicy scenes? All 10/10. I could NOT put this book down because the mystery/suspense was killing me. Diving deeper into the corruption of Villalargos was a wiiiild (and very dark) ride. Last, I need to mention that the ending had me gasping out loud…it was an actual “wtf” moment for me and THAT CLIFFHANGER 😩😩

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Six damn stars. Luna’s writing has my heart.

[Megan Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5🌟

Holy plot twists and turns! I’m realllly loving this new series by Luna. It’s softer than her normal books but still very much a dark tragic story. So much is happening and unraveling that it keeps you constantly guessing and questioning every thought and every move. I love books like this that have your cortisol levels through the roof.

I truly love both of our MMCs in this story as well. They just fit one another so beautifully and I feel like Luna did a really great job of having them play their role while also developing a true connection. It’s hard not to root for them and feel so much for them and everything they are going through.

It’s still a dark story so please be sure to read your triggers beforehand. It has Gossip girls vibes but on a whole other completely unhinged level!

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Offside is book 2 in the Villalargos University series by Luna K. Wicked. After reading book 1, Play Dirty, I was ready to dive back into this world and uncover more secrets from these characters.

Offside follows Thiago and Zayden. The tension between these two was thick as honey in Play Dirty, and it was only amplified in Offside now that they are the stars of the story. The level of angst only intensified as the story went on and when these two finally gave into their pull, it was explosive! In typical Luna K. Wicked fashion though, we were left on a cliffhanger and I have more questions now than when I started! She has me absolutely hooked on this series!

Offside is narrated in duet by Oscar Reyes, E. Montoya and Niia Drisyk. I have enjoyed Oscar’s narration time and time again and Offside was no exception. He was fantastic at bringing Thiago to life. This was my first time listening to E. Montoya and Niia Drisyk and I was blown away by their performances. E. Montoya brought Zayden’s broodiness and turmoil to life so well. Niia was captivating bringing Fabiola to life as well as the additional female characters!
Offside is book 2 in the Villalargos University series by Luna K. Wicked. After reading book 1, Play Dirty, I was ready to dive back into this world and uncover more secrets from these characters.

Offside follows Thiago and Zayden. The tension between these two was thick as honey in Play Dirty, and it was only amplified in Offside now that they are the stars of the story. The level of angst only intensified as the story went on and when these two finally gave into their pull, it was explosive! In typical Luna K. Wicked fashion though, we were left on a cliffhanger and I have more questions now than when I started! She has me absolutely hooked on this series!

Offside is narrated in duet by Oscar Reyes, E. Montoya and Niia Drisyk. I have enjoyed Oscar’s narration time and time again and Offside was no exception. He was fantastic at bringing Thiago to life. This was my first time listening to E. Montoya and Niia Drisyk and I was blown away by their performances. E. Montoya brought Zayden’s broodiness and turmoil to life so well. Niia was captivating bringing Fabiola to life as well as the additional female characters!

[Lisa Garrido · Rating 4 out of 5]

Updated to include ALC review --------------

Story: 4 ⭐
Performances: 5 ⭐
Overall: 4.5 ⭐

And we’re back on campus… this time, the tension is thicker than butter. The energy between Zayden & Thiago is unmatched! Shiloh and Nico’s relationship is hanging on by a thread. If you thought Play Dirty packed secrets… well, the web of lies Luna spun in Offside makes the first instalment look like child’s play. This semester, Offside promises to deliver even more secrets and petty drama… Luna is not playing around.

Why is it that MM romances just hit differently? I can literally FEEL the conflicting emotions Zayden has for Thiago in my bones. Their relationship is unstable and hostile, but not in a way that feels overwhelming, since there’s intense attraction beneath it. Their love and adoration stem from a place of protection laced with shame. The energy between them is insane: lust, jealousy, and possession. And while their backgrounds are different, in a way, they also come from the same place & learned the same things. Two broken boys. But man, did my heart shatter for Zayden a couple of times. And Thiago always kept me on my toes with his head full of secrets.

I really enjoyed the internal monologue of our characters. It didn’t feel like a broken record always on loop with the same tune. You received new bits and pieces of information each time. That’s thinking well done, if that makes any sense. This story exudes toxic masculinity more than anything: rage, arrogance, and domination.

Offside also dives deeper into the workings of Velarium and the wealthy of this world. I love a secret society trope, and quite frankly, this one packs all the elements a good one should have: power, dominance, misogyny, and control above anything. You can't trust anyone and free will does not exist.

When it comes to the audiobook narrations... it was perfect! Kudos to Niia Drisyk for matching Shiloh's tone for the female characters in Play Dirty! This allowed for a cohesive performance between both audiobooks.

Since this is an MM romance, the real stars were Oscar Reyes & E. Montoya. I'm a first-time listener for both of them, and they were the perfect pair match for our MMCs. Oscar has an amazing husky voice that really suits Thiago's seductive Latino character. As a Portuguese speaker, he got the accent of some words close enough, even though they did sound more Portuguese from Portugal than Brazilian, which is where Thiago is from.

Montoya's voice was the perfect contrast to Oscar's: deep and commanding, even though his character at times had to be submissive - not out of choice but by obligation. His vocal range and versatility were excellent as he brought to life many of the male side characters. And when performing together with Oscar in those sinful R-rated scenes... well, let me go to church and ask for forgiveness now.
If you're looking for a who-done-it story packed with secrets and scandals that will take you on a wild ride... look no further.

Thank you, BNA and as always, my opinions are my own - always 100% honest.

XOXO

[Booksbystarlightandshadows · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Audiobook Review*

I was looking forward to Thiago and Zayden's story after seeing some of their chemistry in book one. Their relationship is loaded and complex; this is definitely on the grittier side. There are undeniable feelings on the page but often expressed internally rather than out loud and it felt like there was so much left unsaid. They are both keeping some MAJOR secrets and I'm wondering what the impact will be if the next book doesn't feature POV's from them. I liked the addition of Fabiola; she is a force to be reckoned with and I love how she is playing the game and I can see them being a (platonic) power throuple. We are just over the edge of a HFN which I am fine with but the performances were so good from the narrators that it just left me wanting more from them; their chemistry is amazing.

Although the book is told from Thiago and Zayden's POV, Shiloh and Nico from book one are still central to the plot and this continues on with the overarching threads surrounding the donors. There are so many twists and turns that although kept me engaged were just a little too chaotic for me towards the latter half and I was struggling to remember who was who and what side they were on of the divide. That being said, it is a wild ride! There are so many revelations in the last few chapters and even more questions after that intense ending which I'm hoping get answered in book three.

My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read

[Zainab · Rating 4 out of 5]

give me 3 business days to gather my thoughts

[sladjana.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Look what you do to me"

The tension and banter between Thiago & Zayden is everything. The push and pull & forbidden attraction was amazing. They shouldn't want eachother but they just can't stay away from eachother. AND MY GOOOOOOOOOOOOOD WAS IT HOT. The plot twiat tho, had me at the edge of my seat because WTAF.
I'm looking forward to the 3rd book and continue my journey in the Villalargos universe.

PS. Peter is a dick. But he is hot and has slutty glasses. SO HE CAN DO WHATEVER HE WANTS.

[Read with April Aida · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well I returned to the campus of hell. I can’t help but think I hate, and love this series. Need book three because that cliffhanger was not ittttttttt 💔😭😩😞

Thank you Blue Nose for the ALC, yall know I love me a full cast of narrators to bring these wicked stories to life. 🎧
3.5⭐️

[Gwyn Gable · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, this book had a whole lot of “WTF” moments. Each plot twist had me gasping in surprise, often saying out loud, “Luna, you did not just go there,” or “No fucking way.”

​There were times I felt sick to my stomach watching someone who claims to love another person treat them like shit, all in the name of “keeping them safe.” Thiago, I’m looking at you, man. The amount of times I wanted to punch him… luckily, he “redeems” himself in typical unhinged, dark romance fashion.

​Luna had me consistently lowering my standards, thinking, “Well, in a fucked up way, that makes perfect sense. Toxic as fuck, but that's how these stories go.”

​The emotional damage these characters carry is utterly heartbreaking. Zayden’s past is rife with neglect, abandonment, and a despair that lives deep within his soul, never allowing him to know a moment of peace.

​“And when your body only knows abuse, it’s hard to understand love. It’s hard to walk around and not have your walls up.” This quote hit me hard. It is so discouraging to know that this is real. Personal life experiences have shown me how living a life of pain and abuse wires get crossed. Often these individuals start craving the very thing that broke them. That sentiment perfectly encompasses Zayden's character. He is broken, and while he craves the pain, he hates himself for giving into that “need." It was a very sad truth to read.

​Thiago may have been born with a silver spoon in his mouth, but underneath all that shine and beauty is often just a pile of shit, stinking up the room. His life parallels Zayden's in many ways, and his need to feel loved and chosen plagues him daily. His need to keep Zayden “safe” while playing the double agent was a risky move. His ability to pull Zayden in and demand intimacy, while also being the biggest asshat in the room, caused some serious whiplash.

​With all the twists and turns, cameos from Book 1 characters, and more secrets revealed, it had me on the edge of my seat. As expected with any book I’ve read of Luna's, she weaves complex lines connecting the characters to the world they live in. All while keeping just enough in the dark, leaving you wanting to come back for more.

​This book is dark, depraved, and absolutely devastating. The intimate scenes are scorching, and Zayden and Thiago’s sexual chemistry is off the charts. When they give in to their desires, it is explosive.

​I highly recommend the series. I definitely suggest reading Book 1 first, as there are crucial aspects of that story within this one.

I anxiously wait for book 3, because I need more and I need it now. 

[Ashes And Ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Classes at Villalargos University are back in session and I am so happy about this! I loved every second of Play Dirty and Luna took that feeling and said watch me. I am more obsessed with Offside than I probably should be and I have no shame. The twists in this book and the dynamic between the main characters are everything. That ending though…Luna I don’t know why you do this to me, but this is a brutal cliffhanger that has me craving more!

Thiago has power with golden retriever energy and has someone he wants more than anything, someone he can’t have. I love Thiago in this book, and my heart broke for him a few times along the way. He has not found a way to escape the world he was born into but will stop at nothing to try to tear it all down. The way Thiago balances obtaining the life he wants and the life he has is a beautiful push and pull.

Zayden with his broody energy had me swooning. He has been thrown in as a piece in a world he doesn’t belong to all for people he loves. He is ride or die for the ones he cares about, but caring about someone he shouldn’t proves challenging for this handsome man. Zayden goes through it in this book and all I want to do is wrap him in a blankie until it’s all better.

The chemistry between these two characters is fantastic. I never stopped rooting for them which also caused moments of wanting to smack some sense into these men. Offside picks up where Play Dirty left off but things are far from over. Beside the relationship game between our hot soccer players, the mystery grows deeper around all the characters and the secret society running the show. With every reveal we are gifted with more twists leading further down the rabbit hole.

The pacing of this book made for a quick read that sucked me in. Putting this book down to do things like adulting proved very frustrating and now it is over and I can’t wait to go back for more. This story has me in a chokehold and I don’t know what I will do with myself to see the fates of all these amazing characters…especially my boys (because yes Thiago and Zayden are officially my boys and I will fight for them). Offside is my favorite book of this series. At least for me, the second is better than the first and the first is great! I don’t know how Luna will beat it, but I know if anybody can she will, and in the process of doing so will cause me even more emotional damage (and I will run head on into it). I definitely recommend this series if you like dark romance, secret societies and characters that you will fall in love with.

[Tabitha Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Lunas second in the series Offside completely pulled me in from the first chapter and refused to let go. Luna lsomehow always manages to make every book in this world feel bigger, darker, and more addictive than the last plus we get the extension of the Play Dirty MMC and FMC still hanging on for dear life.

Zaiden and Thiago absolutely stole my heart. Their relationship is messy, intense, frustrating, and impossible to look away from. The chemistry between them to me was off and on but when it was on it was fire, but what really got me was the emotional depth behind everything. Beneath all the tension, secrets, and hostility is a connection that feels genuine and heartbreaking. I spent most of this book wanting to shake them both while also desperately rooting for them. Lunas books always have so much emotional in them. Everyone loves an MM

This isn’t a lighthearted romance wrapped up to look pretty, It’s a story filled with trauma, pain, survival, and people trying to find their place in a world that has broken them in different ways. The themes can be incredibly dark at times. Every difficult moment served a purpose and added another layer to the story ripping into your heart one page at a time.

I also loved getting deeper into the world of Velarium. The secret society elements were some of my favorite parts of the book. The power struggles, manipulation, control, and endless web of lies kept me constantly questioning everyone’s motives. Every time I thought I had something figured out, another secret surfaced. Bastards.

One thing Luna consistently does well is making her characters feel real with flaws and all. They aren’t perfect. They make mistakes, hurt people, and carry their own baggage, a lot of it. That made it so much easier to become emotionally attached to them and invested in what happened to them.

And can we talk about the drama? The chaos is definitely still there, but somehow it’s even more explosive this time around. Every chapter seemed to reveal another secret, another betrayal, or another reason for my jaw to hit the floor. I was confused, shocked, and locked in for the whole book.

The ending left me completely stunned and immediately book two hello cliffhanger. Absolute craziness …If you are a fan of complicated characters, crazy plots and secret societies this is for you.

[Laura Books_0 · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚽️OffSide⚽️🖤
✍🏼: @luna.k.wicked

📍Ratings

5⭐️
2🌶️
3🖤

📍my opinion

Can someone please give me the third book right now?! I NEED to get my hands on it!

Hello, hello, my girly girls! Another review day is here. Yay!

I thought I mentally prepared myself for the second book in this series, but I was wrong. If there’s one thing Luna has finally convinced me of it’s that no matter how prepared I am I always end up needing a couple of days to pull myself together afterwards. The twists that this book is filled with have left me unstable, wanting more, and making a list of possible theories for the next book.

We got to see a little more of Shiloh and Nico, however, in this book we see a side of Shiloh that, I can tell you, made me want to shake her and give her a little nudge of “wake up, girl” which certain characters sometimes need.

Although we did get glimpses of the characters from the previous book, this story is about a different couple—one I was really looking forward to reading about. Did their story break my heart while I was reading it? Of course it did! But if there is one thing I know to be true, it’s that sometimes love causes us to make somewhat questionable decisions. Would you be willing to play dirty for those you want to protect? Even if you lose yourself in the process of trying to protect them? This was something that every single character demonstrated on every page. They were all ready to leave it all out the field and play dirty to come out victorious. Because the long game is the one best played.

📍Do I Recommend It?

Absolutely! This is a book you don’t want to miss—a book that needs to go straight onto your TBR. However, as with all the books I read and recommend, I ask that you take the warnings into account and know what you’re getting into.

Now, besties, if you’re looking for a dark college romance with broken characters who are willing to play in the shadows for the people who matter to them; where you will find suspense waiting for you from the very first page; where trust isn’t given lightly; where secrets are a double-edged sword; where nothing is what it seems; and where what might appear to be perfect at first glance could just be leading you to a pile of bodies around the corner; then this is the book for you!

Remember, no secret is truly a secret, bestie.

See you with the next book.

Kiss, kiss, Laura.

[Awilda Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

offside is everything play dirty promised and then some 📖🔥 book two grabs you by the throat and does NOT let go — i was audibly gasping, turning pages faster than my brain could process, and absolutely losing my mind over every single reveal 😭

thiago and zayden?? my two broken boys with daddy issues?? the tension, the secrets, the spice, the SUSPENSE?? all a hard 10/10 🥵 diving deeper into the corruption of villalargos was a wild, dark, chaotic ride and i was OBSESSED every step of the way

big secrets. scandalous reveals. and at this point?? you cannot trust a single soul 👀

this is not a soft love story. this is lies and deception. and i cannot look away 🖤

these HAVE to be read in order — play dirty first, then offside — because the secrets and betrayals hit different when you’ve been there from the start 🫀 and book three?? nico, the ice queen, thiago, zayden… baby you have SO much explaining to do

THINGS TO KNOW
Forced proximity, Lavender marriage, Broody mmc meets golden retriever with power, Secret Society, Broken Boys with Daddy Issue, Rich boy x poor boy, Power imbalance, Hate sex, Dark Academia, Enemies to lovers, Morally grey love interest, Handler x pet, Forbidden romance, Power play, Broken hero, Blackmail, Secret past, Sexual coercion, Sexual assault, Grooming, Attempted rape, Voyeurism, Emotional manipulation, Parental abuse, Death of a peer, False, imprisonment, Corruption, Underage drinking, Bullying, Stalking, Gaslighting, Grief, Hazing rituals, Power imbalance, psychological manipulation, Self-harm/suicidal ideation (implied), Violence against women, Non-consensual themes / dubcon, Verbal degradation, Emotional abuse, Classism, Threats of sexual violence, Physical intimidation, Substance use, Unreliable narrator, Gaslighting, Rape (on page- not over graphic or explict.), Blackmailing, Physical violence, PTSD, Dubious consent, Coerced sex, BDSM themes, Torture, Cheating (not between main characters), Death, Hate sex, Consensual restraint, Primal chase, Emotional degradation, Tease and denial, Angsty post-sex emotional ruin, Raw, unprotected sex, Sex as confrontation, Sex as comfort, Somnophilic tension (emotional, not literal), Mutual obsession, Parental Death, Domestic Violence

[Darkstellarlove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Offside is the second book in Luna K. Wicked’s Villalargos University series. This dark college sports romance returns readers to the elite and secret-filled world of Villalargos University, where hockey, obsession, rivalry, and dangerous secrets collide. While it can be enjoyed on its own, reading Play Dirty first will give you a deeper understanding of the university atmosphere and interconnected characters.

I was so excited to return to Villalargos University, and Offside definitely delivered the addictive blend of tension, romance, and suspense I was hoping for. Luna K. Wicked has a way of creating a setting that feels both glamorous and dangerous, where every character seems to be hiding something and every decision comes with consequences.

What stood out most to me was the chemistry between the main characters. Their relationship felt intense from the start, filled with push-and-pull tension, emotional vulnerability, and enough sparks to keep me turning pages long past bedtime. I especially loved how neither character was perfect. They were flawed, stubborn, and sometimes frustrating, but that only made their journey feel more real and compelling.

The football element added a fun competitive edge, but this story is about much more than sports. Beneath the romance is a web of secrets, loyalty, betrayal, and personal growth. The dark academia atmosphere was one of my favorite parts—the elite university setting, hidden agendas, and constant sense that something bigger is happening in the background made the story impossible to put down.

The pacing kept me invested throughout, balancing emotional moments with suspense and drama. There were several scenes that had me completely hooked, and I loved how the author built anticipation without rushing the relationship. Fans of morally gray characters, possessive heroes, campus drama, and high-stakes romance will likely find a lot to love here.

Overall, Offside was a captivating return to the Villalargos University world. If you enjoy dark college romances packed with tension, secrets, and unforgettable chemistry, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series by Luna K Wicked, following all the dark and disturbing things that go on at Villalargos University.

This instalment follows Zayden and Thiago on their roller coaster of ownership, lust, want and dare I say devotion. These two have had chemistry even in book one and it just hots up even more in this book! Thiago is not shy about being Bi and having as much fun as he is allow with it, but when he meets Zayden he knows that he doesn’t want anyone else to have him, so in true Villalargos style he makes him his pet, as only the rich and powerful can do is this world. But what does it cost him to try and play both the villain and the hero, wanting to do anything to keep Zayden and make sure nothing happens to him.

Zayden knows his place in this world and just gets on with this, as much as he hates it. He is very attracted to Thiago and falls for him hard, but at the same time tries his best no to as he knows all to well that isn’t something that is on the cards in this secret society world. I love the connection between the two of them and the spice is hot! The angst and tension between these two was so good. So many secrets to be revealed and it has come to the point you really don’t know if you can trust anyone here.

I will say that some aspects that I thought had been tied up in the first books, seemed to be back to how they were and at times there was so much going on it was getting confusing. I did have to listen to certain bits a couple of times to make sure I got it right. Shiloh and Nico are still a bit focus in this one, with both story lines mixing together pretty well. Hoping that with another book coming that all the story lines be tied off and it will all become clearer where the final story is leading.

As with the last book I really enjoyed listening to Nila Drisyk, E Montoya and Oscar Reyes in the roles, was good to hear all the familiar voices and remember who was who from the previous book.

[Thalia Ohh · Rating 5 out of 5]

CHILLS! Like, ACTUAL CHILLS! I'm NOT kidding when I say that I JUST finished Offside (like 1 minute ago), and I HAD to come and just spill what I can while I'm riding this fxckn HIGH!

First off... OF COURSE the rating is ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5. A for sure top 5 book of the year for me. While the dark romance was DARK ROMANCING.. it was the motherfxckn PLOT for me y'all! The world building, the suspense, the thrill.. the way that Offside literally had me holding my breath as I discovered new things in this rollercoaster of a ride.

Play Dirty was my FIRST Luna K. Wicked book and I INSTANTLY fell in love with Nico Blondie, Zayden, and Thiago. While Book 1 focuses on Nico and Shiloh, Offside is all about my two broken boys with daddy issues, Zayden and Thiago. These books HAVE to be read in order to uncover SECRETS and BETRAYALS.

The CHEMISTRY between Zayden & Thiago is fxckn INSANE. The sexual TENSION was scorching! Their love couldn't be SWEET... it was forbidden and POSSESIVE and bitchhhh I LIVE FOR THAT! Also that POWER IMBALANCE?! consider a new book kink UNLOCKED 🔓- (thank you Luna K!)

Standing fxckn OVATION Luna K. Wicked 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 Standing OHHVATION! That Epilogue?! JFC seriously, I could've continued reading 500 more pages of this & believe me, I'm already counting down for book 3! I cannot WAIT to return to Villalargos!! My mind was fxckn BLOWN!! 🤯 The twists and turns?! It was sooo fxckn good, y'all! sooo fxckn good!


From Villalargos to Velarium... all of it- so DELICIOUSLY DARK and DEPRAVED. But you don't look away or the players WILL change. 💋


thank you Luna K. Wicked & team, for this ARC and as always all thoughts & opinions are my own.

[Heids_in_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

THAT WAS INTENSE!!!
I listened to Play Dirty before starting this ARC and thank god I did, because I would have had no idea what was going on without it. So make sure you read it beforehand ♥️
These books are definitely not standalones. You need the background, the characters, the secrets and all the drama from book one before jumping into this one.

Book 2 takes everything from Play Dirty and throws you even deeper into the secrets, lies, corruption and absolute chaos of Villalargos University.

This one is Thiago and Zayden’s book and my god was it a rollercoaster of emotions. I cried, laughed and chewed my nails, and most of the time that was just on the one page.

Zayden absolutely broke my heart. He has been through so much trauma, and the way that made him see himself was painful to read. He really believed he wasn’t worth loving, wasn’t worth choosing, wasn’t worth anything soft or good, and it was so devastating.

And Thiago… listen, that man had me frustrated more than once, but it was so obvious he loved Zayden from the start. Even when he was making poor choices I wanted to yell at him for, everything came back to Zayden. Protecting him. Keeping him safe. Trying to make sure he survived everything going on around them.

The plot in this book was WILD. So many twists, secrets, betrayals and moments where I was sitting there like… Luna, are you serious right now?! Every time I thought I had something figured out, something else happened and I was back to questioning everyone.
And that ending was ruthless Luna! I need book three immediately because I really just need answers so I can move on with my life.

Offside is dark, emotional, spicy, chaotic and full of so many WTF’s, that it makes you want to scream at your Kindle , but also continue reading haha!
Also, TW, TW and TW. Cause you need to read them.
Thank you Luna for the ARC! I loved it so much
4.5⭐️
2.5 🌶️

♥️MM romance
💜Forbidden romance
♥️Soccer romance
💜Dark academia
♥️Secret society
💜Power imbalance
♥️Forced proximity
♥️Secrets and betrayal
💜Morally grey/black characters
♥️Toxic love
💜Cliffhanger ending

[Carly · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
Offside
Villalargo University, Book Two
Author: Luna K. Wicked
Release Date: June 4, 2026
Genre: Academia MM Romance
Tropes: Power Imbalance, Dark Academia, Forbidden Romance, Secret Past, Sports
This was book w in this universe. I read book 1 “Play Dirty” right before this one. I recommend reading book 1 first, you’re going to want the character backstory. There are characters from book 1 that are front and centre. Not you’re a-typical dark romance. The content is heavy and it is recommended that you read the triggers before you proceed. While the spice isn’t high, the history and discussions may not be for everyone. The MMC’s are soccer players so you can expect a bit of play throughout. Thiago & Zayden the 2 MMC’s have a complicated friendship, and the story really dives into how they have become who they are. So many “what the?” moments in this one, and it’s hard to like anyone except Z. Read the Epilogue as it will prepare you for book 3. Not so much a cliffhanger that you’ll pull your hair, but I know that I am waiting for the next one!
Authors Blurb:
In Villalargos, love isn’t the goal… It’s the weapon. Thiago Safra has known that since birth. In a world bound by secrets and fueled by obsession, only one truth matters. Someone always loses.
Zayden Orozco carries more secrets than the man pulling the leash, and in this game, loyalty is a lie and love is the deadliest play of all. Because in Villalargos… someone always ends up offside.
Triggers: I don’t have any triggers and I won’t helicopter yours. Always check the content warnings and if needed check out the triggers. Dark literature isn’t for everyone!
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[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Offside ( Villalargos University Series Book 2 ) what to expect!! ⭐️MM ⭐️Power Imbalance ⭐️Forbidden Romance ⭐️Sports Romance ⭐️Dark Academia ⭐️Secrets / revelations ⭐️Intrigue and suspense
Well I really was just taken on the ride of my life and completely blown away in all the best ways . Luna nailed it once again and delivered one of the best books I’ve read this year . Offside really was and is everything, i mean everything. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that plays on all your emotions in ways you won’t even be expecting. You’ll experience everything from being utterly speechless, to yelling outta pure frustration. Your heart will feel like it’s beating so fast and then bam belong crushed the next , you’ll be glued to the edge of your seat anticipating what will happen from one second to the next . And you’ll find yourself rooting so freaking hard . From page one I was just completely intrigued and by Zayden and Thiago , I can’t really put into words all the reasons why , but I just felt such a strong connection to both and I most definitely was not prepared for how their journey would touch my heart and resonate with me on so many levels . Both were so beautifully broken in different ways , the things they went through together and separately just wrecked me , just shattered my heart . What was so beautiful though was watching them find the strength to overcome all those demons and obstacles, seeing the way they helped one another heal . I loved all the layers and complexities In their characters and their story , how it wasn’t easy , how they had to work to find the happiness they so clearly deserved. Dark , raw , gritty , heartbreaking and just Uttely addictive. That’s exactly what offside was and is