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Chasing Victory #1.5
The Real Ones
Second chances don’t usually come wrapped in shoulder pads on Valentine’s Day…
Ten months ago, All-American shortstop Briella Reddington fell hard for grumpy, battle-scarred quarterback Maddox “Mick” McBride.
And then he walked away—right when she was finally ready to let him in.
Now Ella’s done being vulnerable, done being blindsided, and definitely done with emotionally unavailable athletes. But losing a bet lands her at a Valentine’s charity flag-football event…face-to-face with the man who broke her heart.
Maddox never stopped wanting Ella—but teammates loyal to her golden-boy ex, a rival gunning for his spot, and a coach who made Ella the price of peace forced his hand. Choosing her once cost him everything. His season tanked, his starting job is on the line, and seeing Ella again is the one hit he isn’t prepared to take.
When a chaotic Valentine’s “cupid” pushes them together, sparks ignite, truths surface, and Maddox realizes he’s been fighting the wrong battles all year.
This time, he’s not walking away.
He’s fighting for the girl who was always worth the risk.
READ THIS IF YOU LIKE…
✅ Grumpy/protective hero
✅ Sunshine-with-boundaries heroine
✅ Second-chance romance
✅ College sports + rival athletes
✅ Forced proximity
✅ Emotional scars & healing arcs
✅ Charity-event chaos
✅ A hero who finally fights for his girl
TW: mild hazing, alcohol abuse, domestic abuse; mentions of combat scars.
Ten months ago, All-American shortstop Briella Reddington fell hard for grumpy, battle-scarred quarterback Maddox “Mick” McBride.
And then he walked away—right when she was finally ready to let him in.
Now Ella’s done being vulnerable, done being blindsided, and definitely done with emotionally unavailable athletes. But losing a bet lands her at a Valentine’s charity flag-football event…face-to-face with the man who broke her heart.
Maddox never stopped wanting Ella—but teammates loyal to her golden-boy ex, a rival gunning for his spot, and a coach who made Ella the price of peace forced his hand. Choosing her once cost him everything. His season tanked, his starting job is on the line, and seeing Ella again is the one hit he isn’t prepared to take.
When a chaotic Valentine’s “cupid” pushes them together, sparks ignite, truths surface, and Maddox realizes he’s been fighting the wrong battles all year.
This time, he’s not walking away.
He’s fighting for the girl who was always worth the risk.
READ THIS IF YOU LIKE…
✅ Grumpy/protective hero
✅ Sunshine-with-boundaries heroine
✅ Second-chance romance
✅ College sports + rival athletes
✅ Forced proximity
✅ Emotional scars & healing arcs
✅ Charity-event chaos
✅ A hero who finally fights for his girl
TW: mild hazing, alcohol abuse, domestic abuse; mentions of combat scars.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2026
22 people are currently reading
954 people want to read
About the author
J. Rose Black
7 books1,980 followersJ. Rose Black weaves stories about redemption and the transformational power of love - with a few side-helpings of snark. Now an award-winning and Amazon Top 300 chart-topping author, Rose writes about broody alpha males and plucky, no-nonsense women ready to fight for what they believe in. Her novels have been praised for their realistic mental health representations, with narratives offering a unique balance of romance, humor and tougher, real-world issues.
When Rose isn’t deeply immersed in her latest manuscript, she’s working in cyber security and thwarting the next generation of internet bad guys. Out of the office, she’s #Shipping with friends over her favorite, swoon-worthy couples, heading to the gym to battle the great evil that is Unmovable Baby Weight, or complaining about her husband’s addiction to 3D printing. Also: nagging her children to eat something other than cheese.
When Rose isn’t deeply immersed in her latest manuscript, she’s working in cyber security and thwarting the next generation of internet bad guys. Out of the office, she’s #Shipping with friends over her favorite, swoon-worthy couples, heading to the gym to battle the great evil that is Unmovable Baby Weight, or complaining about her husband’s addiction to 3D printing. Also: nagging her children to eat something other than cheese.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
February 7, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for the eARC copy of this story! 😊🖤
This book follows Briella and Maddox in the past/present story telling of their relationship. This is a Grumpy x Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Second Chance romance. It is short but, there is plenty of details to tell their story and a bit of spice too! You quickly fall in love with the pair and find yourself in their corner rooting for their HEA! Definitely recommend the read!
4 🌟/ 1.5 🌶️
This book follows Briella and Maddox in the past/present story telling of their relationship. This is a Grumpy x Sunshine, Forced Proximity, Second Chance romance. It is short but, there is plenty of details to tell their story and a bit of spice too! You quickly fall in love with the pair and find yourself in their corner rooting for their HEA! Definitely recommend the read!
4 🌟/ 1.5 🌶️
February 2, 2026
This was well written and packed with emotion. It follows two athletes in a love-at-first-sight situation who can’t stay together because of circumstances beyond their control. Maddox is an ex-Marine turned college football player, and Ella is a softball player—and the ex of one of his teammates—which creates a lot of the tension. They’re brought back together during a Valentine’s Day charity co-ed game, and watching their story unfold was fun.
This book does lean heavily into football references and drama, so readers who love football will probably enjoy it more than those who don’t.
Thank you to the author for providing this ARC.
This book does lean heavily into football references and drama, so readers who love football will probably enjoy it more than those who don’t.
Thank you to the author for providing this ARC.
February 4, 2026
3.75⭐️rounded up to 4 for the Goodreads and NetGalley gods 🩷
Firstly, I’d love to thank NetGalley and J Rose Black for an ARC of The Real Ones!
This is a fast, sometimes hilarious and sometimes painful story that has beautiful main characters and explosive chemistry. The story is broken between memories and flashbacks and the events of one charity flag football game on Valentines Day. Unfortunately, for me it took a while to process what was happening between who in some of the back and forth at first, which made it harder to fully immerse myself into the story. This being said, it did get easier to track and understand as the story went on, so I do think it’s worth sticking around for! I think I just would have preferred it to happen in chronological order (which is odd for me because I am a lover of flashbacks in general)… maybe it was because this is quite a short read so I sometimes felt like I was losing a moment in the present or something?
HOWEVER, that is my only little bug bear with the story. The characters are beautiful (Ella and Maddox in the greenhouse is my happiest moment because their interactions were so pure and sweet…at first 👀😘), the plot is just dynamic enough to keep you glued without leaving things unanswered in a story this short, and the football elements were clear enough that even I, a non-football knowing reader, could stay in the book without feeling lost! And I’m excited to read more from this author! Especially after that little sneak peek into what’s coming next 👀👀👀 gimme gimme gimme!
Overall, I really enjoyed this once I was able to really connect with this and I recommend to fans of sports romance, second chance stories and short steamy reads 🩷
Firstly, I’d love to thank NetGalley and J Rose Black for an ARC of The Real Ones!
This is a fast, sometimes hilarious and sometimes painful story that has beautiful main characters and explosive chemistry. The story is broken between memories and flashbacks and the events of one charity flag football game on Valentines Day. Unfortunately, for me it took a while to process what was happening between who in some of the back and forth at first, which made it harder to fully immerse myself into the story. This being said, it did get easier to track and understand as the story went on, so I do think it’s worth sticking around for! I think I just would have preferred it to happen in chronological order (which is odd for me because I am a lover of flashbacks in general)… maybe it was because this is quite a short read so I sometimes felt like I was losing a moment in the present or something?
HOWEVER, that is my only little bug bear with the story. The characters are beautiful (Ella and Maddox in the greenhouse is my happiest moment because their interactions were so pure and sweet…at first 👀😘), the plot is just dynamic enough to keep you glued without leaving things unanswered in a story this short, and the football elements were clear enough that even I, a non-football knowing reader, could stay in the book without feeling lost! And I’m excited to read more from this author! Especially after that little sneak peek into what’s coming next 👀👀👀 gimme gimme gimme!
Overall, I really enjoyed this once I was able to really connect with this and I recommend to fans of sports romance, second chance stories and short steamy reads 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
The Real Ones is an absolute gem that captures the essence of second chances in love, sprinkled with humor and heartfelt moments. J. Rose Black does a phenomenal job creating a landscape where vulnerability meets the gritty passion of sports and romance.
The story revolves around Briella and Maddox, two characters whose chemistry is palpable from the first page. Briella's journey of self-discovery and resilience resonates deeply, especially as she grapples with her past heartbreak. Maddox, with his grumpy exterior and hidden depths, is the perfect foil to her spirit, and watching them navigate their emotions is both exhilarating and relatable.
The Valentine's Day setting offers a delightful backdrop for their rekindling romance, and the charity flag-football event adds a fresh twist that keeps the stakes high. The supporting characters, from loyal teammates to meddling friends, enrich the narrative and add layers of complexity to the central love story.
The authors writing is crisp and engaging, filled with witty banter and poignant moments that tug at the heartstrings. The blend of humor and emotional weight makes this book a page-turner that I couldn't put down.
In a literary landscape often dominated by predictable tropes, The Real Ones stands out as a refreshing take on love, sacrifice, and fighting for what truly matters. I loved every moment of this journey and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a romance that balances heart with grit. A definite must-read!
The Real Ones is an absolute gem that captures the essence of second chances in love, sprinkled with humor and heartfelt moments. J. Rose Black does a phenomenal job creating a landscape where vulnerability meets the gritty passion of sports and romance.
The story revolves around Briella and Maddox, two characters whose chemistry is palpable from the first page. Briella's journey of self-discovery and resilience resonates deeply, especially as she grapples with her past heartbreak. Maddox, with his grumpy exterior and hidden depths, is the perfect foil to her spirit, and watching them navigate their emotions is both exhilarating and relatable.
The Valentine's Day setting offers a delightful backdrop for their rekindling romance, and the charity flag-football event adds a fresh twist that keeps the stakes high. The supporting characters, from loyal teammates to meddling friends, enrich the narrative and add layers of complexity to the central love story.
The authors writing is crisp and engaging, filled with witty banter and poignant moments that tug at the heartstrings. The blend of humor and emotional weight makes this book a page-turner that I couldn't put down.
In a literary landscape often dominated by predictable tropes, The Real Ones stands out as a refreshing take on love, sacrifice, and fighting for what truly matters. I loved every moment of this journey and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a romance that balances heart with grit. A definite must-read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a fast paced short story. So fast at times I needed to go back to re-read sections to make sure I didn't miss anything. I became heavily invested in Maddox and Briella wanting to uncover the reason Maddox could walk away from someone he was clearly attracted to. The mid-conversation flashbacks and internal dialogue were initially tricky to follow, until I got used to them. The Real Ones is a fun read, with grounded and well developed main characters. Thank you to the author for the ARC.
February 5, 2026
This is a second chance sports romance that follows Ella and Maddox. The story is a fun and easy read with glimpses of the past and present. I really enjoyed the characters and the building of their relationship. Quick and entertaining read. I will definitely read this author again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Maddox and Ella get a second chance on Valentines Day. I enjoyed how the backstory was interspersed with the present.
February 19, 2026
This was the perfect short story. I never say no to sports or grumpy men, they are some of my favorites!! This read was so fast paced and easy to read. I love that we got peaks into the past for Ella and Maddox, it made the love story perfect so you seen the bulk of their story. I love that they both play sports also. Maddox is definitely swoon worthy too!! Overall I definitely say add to your tbr.
✨Read if you love✨
🥎She plays softball
🏈He plays football
🩷Second chances
🫶🏻Grumpy MMC
✨Read if you love✨
🥎She plays softball
🏈He plays football
🩷Second chances
🫶🏻Grumpy MMC
February 9, 2026
✿ thank you black label press, j. rose black and netgalley for the arc! ✿
a short, fast-paced, very cute novella about ella and maddox, two college-level athletes who broke up once and get a second chance at love (on valentine’s day, no less).
i don’t read a ton of novellas, and i think at first i was judging this with my “novel brain” on. for a novella, though, this packed a lot, which was both a strength and, at times, a bit overwhelming.
i really liked the characters and felt connected to them, but there were a few moments where i wished certain things had more room to breathe. again, probably my novel bias showing.
i initially rated this 3.5⭐️, but bumped it up to 4⭐️ once i reframed my expectations. for a novella, it hit the important beats, the main characters were likeable, and overall i had a good time. 4⭐️ it is!
a short, fast-paced, very cute novella about ella and maddox, two college-level athletes who broke up once and get a second chance at love (on valentine’s day, no less).
i don’t read a ton of novellas, and i think at first i was judging this with my “novel brain” on. for a novella, though, this packed a lot, which was both a strength and, at times, a bit overwhelming.
i really liked the characters and felt connected to them, but there were a few moments where i wished certain things had more room to breathe. again, probably my novel bias showing.
i initially rated this 3.5⭐️, but bumped it up to 4⭐️ once i reframed my expectations. for a novella, it hit the important beats, the main characters were likeable, and overall i had a good time. 4⭐️ it is!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A novella that introduces us to Maddox and Briella and their journey through this second chance romance. This book was a fun read. I enjoyed reading how the main characters connected and interacted with each other. The plot was enjoyable and easy to get invested into the story.
February 12, 2026
Thank you to the author, J. Rose Black, for a complimentary ARC of The Real Ones in the Chasing Victory series (Kindle Edition) for an honest review.
3.75/5 stars. I truly enjoyed this novella of Maddox and Ella. Both characters are college athletes and share the pressures of performing and the expectations placed upon them as athletes representing championship worthy sports teams. Both characters were strong and had great character growth. Ella is physically and emotionally strong, loyal, fierce, and an amazing athlete. Maddox is my grumpy protector, loyal, team/family orientated and emotionally intelligent specifically with his own teammates and coach. The side characters had a purpose in the story and added to the development of the storyline. The Coach, Ash, Lindsom and Mackey are well written pieces of you know what. I work in the sports industry in a college setting and this had me fully engaged at all levels of the story and the characters.
The writing style was different than book one and it took me a very quick second to follow - but once I did I really appreciated the dual POV as well as the varying timelines. The interactions and internal dialogue/remberances between the two MC’s provided excellent insight into their personal struggles, miscommunication, and hurt feelings (listen I would have felt very similarly as both characters did about the other in what drove them apart). This storyline/novella is a quick read and it sets the stage for grumpier and broody Beaux in the next book.
What to expect: Protector, emotional/physical trauma (a small scene on page for each character, miscommunication, pining, second chance, strong chemistry, sacrifice, and standing for what is right and true.
Highly recommend the series. Read in an afternoon and didn’t stop as I wanted to know what happened between them. Give The Real Ones and the Chasing Victory series a chance - well worth your time.
3.75/5 stars. I truly enjoyed this novella of Maddox and Ella. Both characters are college athletes and share the pressures of performing and the expectations placed upon them as athletes representing championship worthy sports teams. Both characters were strong and had great character growth. Ella is physically and emotionally strong, loyal, fierce, and an amazing athlete. Maddox is my grumpy protector, loyal, team/family orientated and emotionally intelligent specifically with his own teammates and coach. The side characters had a purpose in the story and added to the development of the storyline. The Coach, Ash, Lindsom and Mackey are well written pieces of you know what. I work in the sports industry in a college setting and this had me fully engaged at all levels of the story and the characters.
The writing style was different than book one and it took me a very quick second to follow - but once I did I really appreciated the dual POV as well as the varying timelines. The interactions and internal dialogue/remberances between the two MC’s provided excellent insight into their personal struggles, miscommunication, and hurt feelings (listen I would have felt very similarly as both characters did about the other in what drove them apart). This storyline/novella is a quick read and it sets the stage for grumpier and broody Beaux in the next book.
What to expect: Protector, emotional/physical trauma (a small scene on page for each character, miscommunication, pining, second chance, strong chemistry, sacrifice, and standing for what is right and true.
Highly recommend the series. Read in an afternoon and didn’t stop as I wanted to know what happened between them. Give The Real Ones and the Chasing Victory series a chance - well worth your time.
February 17, 2026
STORY:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
OH MY GOODNESS... I really liked this! I don't know why I picked this ARC to be honest. I typically avoid YA reads... College students are not my preference being a more mature reader. I can't related to characters who are attending college parties and living their carefree lives. I think the fact that the MMC, Maddox, was an ex-marine with life experiences made him so enjoyable to read. The FMC, Ella, was smart, independent and strong-willed. Both MCs had friends surround them to help push them into each other after their separation.
*** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
The flashbacks in this story kept me interested and focused on the "then" and "now" of the story. The writing was so well done IMO. There was angst, longing, second chance, frustration, humour and love. The spice that was sprinkled in the flashbacks... delicious.... and then the shower scene... fantastic! Highly recommend this story. It was short and sweet and absolute perfection!
Side note - Definitely looking forward to Seager's storyline. He was a great character and I loved his and Maddox's friendship.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
OH MY GOODNESS... I really liked this! I don't know why I picked this ARC to be honest. I typically avoid YA reads... College students are not my preference being a more mature reader. I can't related to characters who are attending college parties and living their carefree lives. I think the fact that the MMC, Maddox, was an ex-marine with life experiences made him so enjoyable to read. The FMC, Ella, was smart, independent and strong-willed. Both MCs had friends surround them to help push them into each other after their separation.
*** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
The flashbacks in this story kept me interested and focused on the "then" and "now" of the story. The writing was so well done IMO. There was angst, longing, second chance, frustration, humour and love. The spice that was sprinkled in the flashbacks... delicious.... and then the shower scene... fantastic! Highly recommend this story. It was short and sweet and absolute perfection!
Side note - Definitely looking forward to Seager's storyline. He was a great character and I loved his and Maddox's friendship.
February 13, 2026
"𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚" 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂����𝒊𝒍𝒚.
This quick, fiesty and swoon-worthy novella did deliver on everything advertised! For everyone liking second chance romances ft. college sports, with a good pinch of humor - this is great read!
We follow Maddox, a very loyal, sweet guy who fell head over heels for Ella on the worst possible timing. They have the cutest meet cute, but then everything goes up in flames. She is the ex of his teams "leader", a piece of work that treated her terribly, and he wants to protect her, even if it means being just her friend AND getting into trouble with a bunch of team mates. He wants to protect her and give her time, she thinks she is the only one longing for more.
Going from now, february 14, at a charity game and between the past, we see unravel both of their stories, feelings, insecurities and intensions. The banter is perfectly sweet and perfectly mix with the more emotionally, hard topics.
The writer got me engaged very quickly, hit all the feels, and combined it with witty humor. Being a novella, the story is packed. We get backgrounds and depth, making us love the characters. The Real Ones is a beautiful second chance romance that feels like a comforting blanket in a original way. I def recommend!
This quick, fiesty and swoon-worthy novella did deliver on everything advertised! For everyone liking second chance romances ft. college sports, with a good pinch of humor - this is great read!
We follow Maddox, a very loyal, sweet guy who fell head over heels for Ella on the worst possible timing. They have the cutest meet cute, but then everything goes up in flames. She is the ex of his teams "leader", a piece of work that treated her terribly, and he wants to protect her, even if it means being just her friend AND getting into trouble with a bunch of team mates. He wants to protect her and give her time, she thinks she is the only one longing for more.
Going from now, february 14, at a charity game and between the past, we see unravel both of their stories, feelings, insecurities and intensions. The banter is perfectly sweet and perfectly mix with the more emotionally, hard topics.
The writer got me engaged very quickly, hit all the feels, and combined it with witty humor. Being a novella, the story is packed. We get backgrounds and depth, making us love the characters. The Real Ones is a beautiful second chance romance that feels like a comforting blanket in a original way. I def recommend!
February 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Real Ones is a short, fast-paced second-chance romance that packs a surprising amount of heart into a novella-length story.
Ella and Maddox are college athletes with history, unresolved feelings, and a Valentine’s Day reunion that forces them to confront what went wrong the first time. The setup is fun, the pacing is quick, and the emotional beats hit where they need to—especially once expectations are framed for a novella rather than a full-length novel.
I really enjoyed the characters and felt connected to them early on. That said, there were a few moments I wished had a bit more room to breathe—but that’s likely my novel-reader brain talking. For the format, the story delivers: strong chemistry, likable leads, and a satisfying second-chance arc.
Once I adjusted my expectations, this became a solid 4-star read. A great pick if you’re looking for a quick, heartfelt sports romance with emotional depth.
February 18, 2026
I absolutely loved this! Dual POV, slow-burn tension, and a grumpy hero who will steal your heart. Briella is a powerhouse heroine, Maddox is all broody intensity, and the chemistry between them is 🔥. The story hits all the feels—heartbreak, swoon, and redemption that actually earns its HEA. Quick, immersive, and impossible to put down. Definitely going on my TBR forever.
February 12, 2026
Brielle is an All-American shortstop, and Maddox a grumpy, battle-scarred quarterback. Just as Brielle was going to let him in, Maddox left. Now they cross paths again at a charity football event, face to face. Will they get a second chance?
This is a well written action packed, emotionally charged story, with grumpy / sunshine, opposites attract, vulnerability, meddling, rival athletes, loyalty. Forced proximity, healing, revelations, second chances, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartfelt, football romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
This is a well written action packed, emotionally charged story, with grumpy / sunshine, opposites attract, vulnerability, meddling, rival athletes, loyalty. Forced proximity, healing, revelations, second chances, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartfelt, football romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
February 14, 2026
The perfect read for Valentine’s Day! 🌷♥️
This perfectly sweet novella was such a fun read. Thank you @The Black Rose Bookshop @NetGalley for this arc! Briella and Maddox have great chemistry and it was so fun to watch them rekindle their romance. I loved reading a MMC who fights for what he wants!
🏈 second chance
🏈 college sports
🏈 forced proximity
This perfectly sweet novella was such a fun read. Thank you @The Black Rose Bookshop @NetGalley for this arc! Briella and Maddox have great chemistry and it was so fun to watch them rekindle their romance. I loved reading a MMC who fights for what he wants!
🏈 second chance
🏈 college sports
🏈 forced proximity
February 17, 2026
The Real Ones is a second chance romance story with a touch of sports thrown in.
I powered through this book, wanting to see what would happen to the 2 main characters. There is limited interaction between them until half way through the story, however this allows the back story to develop as well as understanding why the characters are acting the way they do.
There are dual perspectives in this book, which allow for a greater understanding, especially seeing the same event from different points of view. The one thing that is did find frustrating was the dual POV on events that happened in the past but having them spread apart in the book. A few times I had to question which character’s POV I was reading and when it occurred.
I especially loved Seagar and am hoping that the hints lead to him getting his book in the near future. Also I really want to know what happens next like right now.
This book will suit anybody that loves a second chance with a side of football thrown in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I powered through this book, wanting to see what would happen to the 2 main characters. There is limited interaction between them until half way through the story, however this allows the back story to develop as well as understanding why the characters are acting the way they do.
There are dual perspectives in this book, which allow for a greater understanding, especially seeing the same event from different points of view. The one thing that is did find frustrating was the dual POV on events that happened in the past but having them spread apart in the book. A few times I had to question which character’s POV I was reading and when it occurred.
I especially loved Seagar and am hoping that the hints lead to him getting his book in the near future. Also I really want to know what happens next like right now.
This book will suit anybody that loves a second chance with a side of football thrown in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 13, 2026
I absolutely loved this second chance novella! Ella is a shortstop (more female athletes in sports romance pls!) who leaned on Mick - the quarterback - after her last relationship ended but when he ghosted her she swore she was done with him. When they’re forced to spend Valentine’s Day together after she loses a bet Ella finds herself softening to Mick.
This was a lovely story and beautifully written, I really felt for Ella and loved her chemistry with Mick. Telling this story in flashbacks was a great choice! Delightful and quick to finish - pick this one up for Valentine’s Day for sure!
This was a lovely story and beautifully written, I really felt for Ella and loved her chemistry with Mick. Telling this story in flashbacks was a great choice! Delightful and quick to finish - pick this one up for Valentine’s Day for sure!
February 14, 2026
Watching Ella and Maddox fall in love and allow themselves to be loved was a treat. Every aspect of the story is purposeful. From the first meeting to the present day, each moment with the characters left me wanting more.
February 12, 2026
This was such a good book. I loved it so much. This book didn’t disappoint.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 18, 2026
The use of italics in this novella really confused me because its used for three main reasons (to accentuate something, to describe an inner thought and for a flashback or a memory) but it was often unclear which one it is. It would constantly take me out of the story wondering wether something was a thought or a recollection of the character being told that. Also italics in general are so overused in this book it shows up multiple times on every page almost in every paragraph. The italics being both confusing and extremely common made it hard to get immersed in the story.
The plot itself was pretty fun, I loved the yearning and i could really feel the character missing each other. Both characters are well developed for a novella and likable on their own as well as together. Their connection was strong and it was clear why they wanted and needed each other. Ella has abandonment issues and since this is a novella there isnt too much work being done about this in the book but the ending left me feeling like she will get better with that over time.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the Publisher for an ARCs copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The plot itself was pretty fun, I loved the yearning and i could really feel the character missing each other. Both characters are well developed for a novella and likable on their own as well as together. Their connection was strong and it was clear why they wanted and needed each other. Ella has abandonment issues and since this is a novella there isnt too much work being done about this in the book but the ending left me feeling like she will get better with that over time.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the Publisher for an ARCs copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
February 21, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in return for a voluntary and honest review!
To be honest, I can see that this book could've had so much potential if it was executed slightly differently?
I would say a good 50% of this book are flashbacks to earlier times so I found it a little bit difficult to actually connect with our MCs in the present time. I can definitely see myself enjoying this and rooting for them more if I felt like I had the chance to actually properly know them
Another gripe I had with this book is the use of italics - I found it a little hard to recognise whether we were slipping into a flashback or inner monologue quite a few times throughout this book as it happened pretty close together sometimes. I also think it was slight overkill to have whole paragraphs set in previous months just to also have flashbacks in present day chapters too?
Generally, this was a pretty fun second chance sports novella and I can definitely see many people enjoying it!! it just personally wasnt my cup of tea
To be honest, I can see that this book could've had so much potential if it was executed slightly differently?
I would say a good 50% of this book are flashbacks to earlier times so I found it a little bit difficult to actually connect with our MCs in the present time. I can definitely see myself enjoying this and rooting for them more if I felt like I had the chance to actually properly know them
Another gripe I had with this book is the use of italics - I found it a little hard to recognise whether we were slipping into a flashback or inner monologue quite a few times throughout this book as it happened pretty close together sometimes. I also think it was slight overkill to have whole paragraphs set in previous months just to also have flashbacks in present day chapters too?
Generally, this was a pretty fun second chance sports novella and I can definitely see many people enjoying it!! it just personally wasnt my cup of tea
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
this was ... fine. idk a little heavy on the sports for me personally and i didn’t really care about the characters at all but it was a fun novella.
thank you to netgalley & the publisher for an arc!!!
thank you to netgalley & the publisher for an arc!!!
Review of advance copy
Honestly, I was so confused while reading this because:
1) I know literally nothing, zero, nada of American football (non-American here 👋). So the chapters where they were playing, I got SO confused. How does football even work? What does "hut hut" mean? Is there more than one quarterback per team? I understand nothing. Sports romances honestly don't need to contain any actual sports for me. Especially when it's a sport that's only popular in a certain country? Just describe the outfits, give them good sportsy nicknames and "Go team".
2) We have actual flashbacks where it's indicated how long ago sth has been, but then we also have flashbacks in italics throughout the "present" chapters. And don't get me wrong, I get why these flashbacks are necessary. I just think maybe they could have been a bit clearer? Now sometimes I had a hard time following who was saying what in which timeline.
Apart from that, I was invested in Elle and Maddox's story. The yearning was yearny and I just wanted them to talk and make up and be happy. They're both lowkey so insecure and I thought that was really cute. We love a fierce-yet-flawed FMC and bulky-yet-cinnamony MMC 👏👏👏
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1) I know literally nothing, zero, nada of American football (non-American here 👋). So the chapters where they were playing, I got SO confused. How does football even work? What does "hut hut" mean? Is there more than one quarterback per team? I understand nothing. Sports romances honestly don't need to contain any actual sports for me. Especially when it's a sport that's only popular in a certain country? Just describe the outfits, give them good sportsy nicknames and "Go team".
2) We have actual flashbacks where it's indicated how long ago sth has been, but then we also have flashbacks in italics throughout the "present" chapters. And don't get me wrong, I get why these flashbacks are necessary. I just think maybe they could have been a bit clearer? Now sometimes I had a hard time following who was saying what in which timeline.
Apart from that, I was invested in Elle and Maddox's story. The yearning was yearny and I just wanted them to talk and make up and be happy. They're both lowkey so insecure and I thought that was really cute. We love a fierce-yet-flawed FMC and bulky-yet-cinnamony MMC 👏👏👏
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2026
It’s a great book to read during Valentine’s week, it’s sweet, fast paced and the main characters have great chemistry.
Only downside is the back and forth between past and present, it’s such a short book, that starting off with so many time jumps made it hard to follow, but the more I got into the book the easier it got to understand what the author wanted to tell.
All in all if you are looking for something to take your mind off the real world, this book throws just that.
Only downside is the back and forth between past and present, it’s such a short book, that starting off with so many time jumps made it hard to follow, but the more I got into the book the easier it got to understand what the author wanted to tell.
All in all if you are looking for something to take your mind off the real world, this book throws just that.
February 1, 2026
ARC Review ✨
First I would like to say a big thank you to J Rose for letting me be apart of this ARC Team!
Rate: 4/5⭐️
Spice: 1/5🌶️
What to expect when reading The Real Ones;
-Grumpy Protective Hero
-Second Chance
-College Sports
-Sunshine FMC
-Football x Softball
This is book 1.5 of the Chasing Victory series! You get to follow Briella and Maddox. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance. While this is a short story, you get a window into their relationship and how they get to where they are now. Starting off I get why Ella fell for Maddox because I just might have too lol I don’t want to give too much away since it is a short story but know it packs a lot of story!
Fav Quote:
•”I want to know what it’s like to kiss you”
Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases Feb. 12th🤍
First I would like to say a big thank you to J Rose for letting me be apart of this ARC Team!
Rate: 4/5⭐️
Spice: 1/5🌶️
What to expect when reading The Real Ones;
-Grumpy Protective Hero
-Second Chance
-College Sports
-Sunshine FMC
-Football x Softball
This is book 1.5 of the Chasing Victory series! You get to follow Briella and Maddox. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance. While this is a short story, you get a window into their relationship and how they get to where they are now. Starting off I get why Ella fell for Maddox because I just might have too lol I don’t want to give too much away since it is a short story but know it packs a lot of story!
Fav Quote:
•”I want to know what it’s like to kiss you”
Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases Feb. 12th🤍
February 19, 2026
I loved this!! I wish it was longer BUT the ending is definitely setting up for another book so I am excited for that one and will be keeping an eye out it!
I really enjoyed the story, both of the characters have experienced a lot of pain. Really a lot of the issues were just miscommunication. Maddox is a sweetheart like for real. Not once is he like disrespectful to her. Like Ella has been through traumatic relationships and Maddox knew about it and it’s just from then out being a protector. It’s sad he thought he had to leave her to protect her but also his college football career.
I’m confused about the whole amberine thing but i’ll re read that part again!
The author has a really nice writing style, it was simple and easy to follow. It made my reading experience much easier.
I really enjoyed the story, both of the characters have experienced a lot of pain. Really a lot of the issues were just miscommunication. Maddox is a sweetheart like for real. Not once is he like disrespectful to her. Like Ella has been through traumatic relationships and Maddox knew about it and it’s just from then out being a protector. It’s sad he thought he had to leave her to protect her but also his college football career.
I’m confused about the whole amberine thing but i’ll re read that part again!
The author has a really nice writing style, it was simple and easy to follow. It made my reading experience much easier.
February 19, 2026
This novella is a second chance, friends to lovers quick read. Briella or Ella is an All American Softball player just trying to get through a charity flag football game while being around Maddox McBride or Mick, the man who broke her heart 8 months ago. Mick sees this as an opportunity to talk to Ella about the past and hopefully the future.
There were entirely too many flashbacks in this novella. I wish it had been linear and had their meet cute, friendship, parting and then reconciliation because there were whole chapters dedicated to the past, then in the middle of present chapters there would be flashbacks too. It got irritating to constantly be yanked into the past. There wasn't enough present time to see them rekindle their spark. So it went from 0 to 60 right at the end.
When we were in the past it was sweet to see how they connected and after some drama they were able to be friends first before anything else. I didn't understand why Mick thought he would be the rebound guy, and why that would be so bad. I married my "rebound" it doesn't have to be a bad thing. It shows what a tool the last one was when you find the best one right after.
It seems like I might not have liked this one, but I really did think it was so cute and sweet. I liked how tender they were with each other.
I gave this one 3.5 out of 5 stars.
I received a free copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
There were entirely too many flashbacks in this novella. I wish it had been linear and had their meet cute, friendship, parting and then reconciliation because there were whole chapters dedicated to the past, then in the middle of present chapters there would be flashbacks too. It got irritating to constantly be yanked into the past. There wasn't enough present time to see them rekindle their spark. So it went from 0 to 60 right at the end.
When we were in the past it was sweet to see how they connected and after some drama they were able to be friends first before anything else. I didn't understand why Mick thought he would be the rebound guy, and why that would be so bad. I married my "rebound" it doesn't have to be a bad thing. It shows what a tool the last one was when you find the best one right after.
It seems like I might not have liked this one, but I really did think it was so cute and sweet. I liked how tender they were with each other.
I gave this one 3.5 out of 5 stars.
I received a free copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 23, 2026
The Real Ones is a short story featuring characters from the Chasing Victory sports x romance series.
The story itself was good, and I particularly liked the flashback scenes between Ella and Mick.
This could have easily been a fully-fleshed out novel, as their friendship/romance started off traumatic but you can see how it blooms. Plus the hint at corruption in the college sports industry is interesting.
My only issue stems from the fact that this is a novella, and I haven't read any other books from the series. But maybe I might have to :)
*Thanks Netgalley for the arc*
The story itself was good, and I particularly liked the flashback scenes between Ella and Mick.
This could have easily been a fully-fleshed out novel, as their friendship/romance started off traumatic but you can see how it blooms. Plus the hint at corruption in the college sports industry is interesting.
My only issue stems from the fact that this is a novella, and I haven't read any other books from the series. But maybe I might have to :)
*Thanks Netgalley for the arc*
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