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A Perfect Match
A heated enemies-to-lovers lesbian sports romance about shattering all the rules.
Acclaimed football star Erin Finch has the sporting world at her feet until a brutal injury sidelines her.
Enter bubbly striker Lia Ashcroft, the up-and-coming hotshot setting the English women's league on fire. With her personal life in tatters, she's determined to rule professionally.
Filling in for Erin seems like a good way to kick her career up a notch. Icy Erin might be out for a season, but she's damned if she'll let someone steal her spot for good.
What starts as fierce tension between the rivals turns into something respect, then simmering attraction.
Exploring it, though, would break every rule Erin has.
Acclaimed football star Erin Finch has the sporting world at her feet until a brutal injury sidelines her.
Enter bubbly striker Lia Ashcroft, the up-and-coming hotshot setting the English women's league on fire. With her personal life in tatters, she's determined to rule professionally.
Filling in for Erin seems like a good way to kick her career up a notch. Icy Erin might be out for a season, but she's damned if she'll let someone steal her spot for good.
What starts as fierce tension between the rivals turns into something respect, then simmering attraction.
Exploring it, though, would break every rule Erin has.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 25, 2026
5 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Rachael Sommers
10 books242 followersRachael Sommers was born and raised in the North-West of England, where she began writing at the age of thirteen, and has been unable to stop since. A biology graduate, she currently works in education and constantly dreams of travelling the world. In her spare time, she enjoys horse riding, board games, escape rooms and, of, course, reading.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 28, 2026
Erin's been the star of the Manchester women's football world for a while now, but when an injury sidelines her, her future in football is uncertain. Enter Lia, an up-and-coming star fleeing trauma of her own...and they clash immediately.
I just cannot resist a lesbian soccer (sorry, old habits die hard, and I can't say "football" without thinking of a pointing oblong ball and permanent brain damage) story. Plus, you know, cute cover, and (shh, don't tell) I do in fact judge a book by its cover. This was an extremely quick read—I read half of it in one evening at the gym and finished it before bed the same day—and there's a really satisfying amount of soccer in the book. Lia and Erin both do a lot of thinking with their hearts rather than their heads, for better or for worse, and they don't really go at things in a half-assed way...which is probably just what a successful soccer player needs.
(The next couple of paragraphs are a bit longer than I intended, so if you just want to know who I recommend this for, skip to the last paragraph!)
Two things gave me pause: First, this doesn't feel like a healthy relationship. There's Erin's distrust of Lia—she might be a soccer superstar, but it makes me think that she isn't much of a team player. This is reinforced by the shape of the relationship, as while Erin and Lia are able to play well together on the field, much of the book sees one or both of them refusing to treat the other one civilly and no consideration of what this might mean for team dynamics. On top of this, there's quite a lot of jealousy throughout the book—e.g., Erin getting jealous when another woman hits on Lia—and between that and the push-pull dynamic they set up early on (pulling together and then pushing each other away), it just doesn't feel like the setup for something healthy in the short or long term.
Second, I don't love the approach to workplace relationships and power dynamics. Though there isn't a direct power dynamic between Erin and Lia (Erin has no say over Lia's play time, her position on the team, etc.), there is an indirect power relationship (Erin is about a decade older, more senior on the team, and Lia's childhood sports hero). I think this is probably in line with the fact that the author's other books seem to be age-gap romances, which is fine but not my jam; I would have liked more discussion of it within the book, but this will still be a good fit for readers who like more power play between their heroines. Also didn't love, in the context of a problematic player–coach relationship, repeated references to the player "getting away with it"; i.e., not being publicly shamed for it (though the coach is) and another character unfairly taking some of the blame. And while yes, the player should take ownership for cheating, that's a whole different ballpark (soccer field?) from the subordinate in an unequal relationship deserving a public lambasting.
So while this didn't work as well for me as I'd have like...it's still a fast read with soccer, and interesting family relationships as B plot, and a decent amount of spice. A better fit for those who like age-gap romance, workplace romance, power dynamics, and enemies to lovers. And of course one for sports fans!
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
I just cannot resist a lesbian soccer (sorry, old habits die hard, and I can't say "football" without thinking of a pointing oblong ball and permanent brain damage) story. Plus, you know, cute cover, and (shh, don't tell) I do in fact judge a book by its cover. This was an extremely quick read—I read half of it in one evening at the gym and finished it before bed the same day—and there's a really satisfying amount of soccer in the book. Lia and Erin both do a lot of thinking with their hearts rather than their heads, for better or for worse, and they don't really go at things in a half-assed way...which is probably just what a successful soccer player needs.
(The next couple of paragraphs are a bit longer than I intended, so if you just want to know who I recommend this for, skip to the last paragraph!)
Two things gave me pause: First, this doesn't feel like a healthy relationship. There's Erin's distrust of Lia—she might be a soccer superstar, but it makes me think that she isn't much of a team player. This is reinforced by the shape of the relationship, as while Erin and Lia are able to play well together on the field, much of the book sees one or both of them refusing to treat the other one civilly and no consideration of what this might mean for team dynamics. On top of this, there's quite a lot of jealousy throughout the book—e.g., Erin getting jealous when another woman hits on Lia—and between that and the push-pull dynamic they set up early on (pulling together and then pushing each other away), it just doesn't feel like the setup for something healthy in the short or long term.
Second, I don't love the approach to workplace relationships and power dynamics. Though there isn't a direct power dynamic between Erin and Lia (Erin has no say over Lia's play time, her position on the team, etc.), there is an indirect power relationship (Erin is about a decade older, more senior on the team, and Lia's childhood sports hero). I think this is probably in line with the fact that the author's other books seem to be age-gap romances, which is fine but not my jam; I would have liked more discussion of it within the book, but this will still be a good fit for readers who like more power play between their heroines. Also didn't love, in the context of a problematic player–coach relationship, repeated references to the player "getting away with it"; i.e., not being publicly shamed for it (though the coach is) and another character unfairly taking some of the blame. And while yes, the player should take ownership for cheating, that's a whole different ballpark (soccer field?) from the subordinate in an unequal relationship deserving a public lambasting.
So while this didn't work as well for me as I'd have like...it's still a fast read with soccer, and interesting family relationships as B plot, and a decent amount of spice. A better fit for those who like age-gap romance, workplace romance, power dynamics, and enemies to lovers. And of course one for sports fans!
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
February 24, 2026
A Perfect Match is an engaging read that captures some of the high-stakes atmosphere of professional sports while maintaining a grounded, emotional core. The highlight of the book for me was the enemies-to-lovers setup. Ms. Sommers establishes a palpable sense of friction between Erin and Lia right from kick-off, and this initial tension serves as a fantastic pitch for the plot. You’ll enjoy watching that animosity slowly shift into something more meaningful. I particularly appreciated that the author avoided the common instalove trope, instead choosing to build their relationship organically, allowing the chemistry to develop at a realistic pace. While it might take a little longer for the reader to fully feel the spark between the MCs, the eventual payoff feels earned because of that patient groundwork.
The setting is another strong point. As a fan of women’s football, I enjoyed seeing the world of the WSL (Women’s Super League) used as the backdrop. The author uses the professional environment well to frame the characters’ lives. Don’t expect any deep delving into the granular mechanics of the sport—you won’t find exhaustive descriptions of tactical shifts or detailed team post-mortems after every win or loss. The plot remains tightly focused on the leads rather than juggling a massive cast of supporting characters. Which is a bit of a double-edged sword if you do follow the sport. I would have welcomed a bit more depth regarding team dynamics and how the women’s game is very much emerging. But for readers who don't follow English football, this is likely a significant plus, preventing the story from becoming bogged down in jargon and ensuring the narrative remains tight and centered on the romance.
Overall, A Perfect Match is a well-crafted contemporary romance. It’s a focused, high-chemistry story that I would certainly recommend to anyone looking for a solid sports-themed read with a slow-burn heart.
Thank you to the publisher, the amazing Ylva, the author, and to NetGalley for the chance to win the title with this book.
The setting is another strong point. As a fan of women’s football, I enjoyed seeing the world of the WSL (Women’s Super League) used as the backdrop. The author uses the professional environment well to frame the characters’ lives. Don’t expect any deep delving into the granular mechanics of the sport—you won’t find exhaustive descriptions of tactical shifts or detailed team post-mortems after every win or loss. The plot remains tightly focused on the leads rather than juggling a massive cast of supporting characters. Which is a bit of a double-edged sword if you do follow the sport. I would have welcomed a bit more depth regarding team dynamics and how the women’s game is very much emerging. But for readers who don't follow English football, this is likely a significant plus, preventing the story from becoming bogged down in jargon and ensuring the narrative remains tight and centered on the romance.
Overall, A Perfect Match is a well-crafted contemporary romance. It’s a focused, high-chemistry story that I would certainly recommend to anyone looking for a solid sports-themed read with a slow-burn heart.
Thank you to the publisher, the amazing Ylva, the author, and to NetGalley for the chance to win the title with this book.
Read
March 6, 2026Sommers has written books I’ve really enjoyed so I couldn’t pass on this one.
This book combines some of my favourites: a good author, my favourite sport to watch, top 3 of tropes (sports romance and enemies to lovers).
While the book is well written and the characters are layered, I feel like the author is trying to hard to make football accessible for those who don’t know it. Or doesn’t understand the sport… either or. Seeing as the author states that she started enjoying football more and more over the last few years I think it might be both.
I am extra critical about all of this because I watch so much of this sport, have for years, and the depth of knowledge and familiarity with it makes for high standards.
Anyway, for any casual football watchers, sports romance lovers or even just the enemies to lovers trope enthusiasts, this is a book for you!
This book combines some of my favourites: a good author, my favourite sport to watch, top 3 of tropes (sports romance and enemies to lovers).
While the book is well written and the characters are layered, I feel like the author is trying to hard to make football accessible for those who don’t know it. Or doesn’t understand the sport… either or. Seeing as the author states that she started enjoying football more and more over the last few years I think it might be both.
I am extra critical about all of this because I watch so much of this sport, have for years, and the depth of knowledge and familiarity with it makes for high standards.
Anyway, for any casual football watchers, sports romance lovers or even just the enemies to lovers trope enthusiasts, this is a book for you!
March 18, 2026
So good!
Erin and Lia clash from the moment they meet, with Erin feeling Lia is trying to take her place as star of the team after her injury has her off the pitch. Lia is just trying to get on with her life after her relationship with a player at her previous club has left her world in pieces. When they finally get to know each other better, a mutual respect leads to more developing between them.
From the outset you could feel the tension between Erin and Lia. It had me smiling because Erin was fighting so hard to give in and admit Lia was a nice person and they could get along. She really didn’t want to admit Lia joining the team wasn’t so bad, and it was just the funniest thing. At the same time my heart was breaking for Lia. She had admired Erin since discovering women’s football and she only wanted to make her proud and be as good a player as her idol. She didn’t deserve Erin’s cold shoulder after the horrendous ordeal with her previous partner and having to upheave her life and change clubs to find peace.
Once they got passed that initial tension, helped somewhat by Erin’s niece who was so cute, they really had a connection that was amazing. I loved all the moments they spent together after that, even if some of them were a bit awkward. They had an amazing future awaiting at the same club, and I knew they were going to be a formidable couple both on and off the pitch.
A really great and uplifting story about rebuilding a life and taking chances to make dreams come true. Loved every second of this and Rachael got a great balance between their relationship and their careers.
Erin and Lia clash from the moment they meet, with Erin feeling Lia is trying to take her place as star of the team after her injury has her off the pitch. Lia is just trying to get on with her life after her relationship with a player at her previous club has left her world in pieces. When they finally get to know each other better, a mutual respect leads to more developing between them.
From the outset you could feel the tension between Erin and Lia. It had me smiling because Erin was fighting so hard to give in and admit Lia was a nice person and they could get along. She really didn’t want to admit Lia joining the team wasn’t so bad, and it was just the funniest thing. At the same time my heart was breaking for Lia. She had admired Erin since discovering women’s football and she only wanted to make her proud and be as good a player as her idol. She didn’t deserve Erin’s cold shoulder after the horrendous ordeal with her previous partner and having to upheave her life and change clubs to find peace.
Once they got passed that initial tension, helped somewhat by Erin’s niece who was so cute, they really had a connection that was amazing. I loved all the moments they spent together after that, even if some of them were a bit awkward. They had an amazing future awaiting at the same club, and I knew they were going to be a formidable couple both on and off the pitch.
A really great and uplifting story about rebuilding a life and taking chances to make dreams come true. Loved every second of this and Rachael got a great balance between their relationship and their careers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.25⭐️
This exciting sports novel takes place in the English women's football (soccer) league. But you don't have to be a soccer fan to enjoy this story. It includes some game sequences, but they are easy to understand even for those who aren't soccer fans. The story primarily focuses on two players: Erin Finch, who has been one of the world's best for years, and the up-and-coming Lia Ashford. It's about the changing dynamics within a team, rivalries and friendships, team spirit and fighting spirit, getting back on the field after a serious injury, and, of course, the battle for trophies. And not to forget Love.
Erin, who has been sidelined for months due to a serious injury, feels her place on the team threatened by the young, dynamic goal scorer Lia.
Lia has a valid reason for leaving the Wanderers after seven years and signing a contract with their archrivals, the Albions. One bright spot of the move was that she would be playing alongside her idol, Erin Finch, in the near future.
Lia's personal life is in shambles, and it has also affected her career as a soccer player. But her love of soccer is helping her get through it. Erin's fear of not reaching the same level she was at before her injury is real and can be frightening. I suffered the same injury at the end of my handball career, and it's not easy to fully trust your body again.
From the beginning, the icy and reserved Erin and the lively and open Lia clash. The tension between the two ambitious athletes is palpable, not only between them but also within the team, and the verbal battles are intense, sometimes impulsive, or the atmosphere turns frosty. But there is always curiosity and admiration for the other player. Slowly, a closer relationship develops between them, thanks in part to Erin's niece, Maisie, who sneaks her way into Lia's heart and brings Erin along with her. However, hasty judgments and insecurity repeatedly spoil the fun. But the attraction and fire between them is too great to resist. And the bed scenes are really hot.
I can understand the problems in a relationship between two teammates. As long as the relationship works, it can push both individuals to their best, but it can also destroy the entire dynamic in the team if it doesn't work. There's a push and pull going on, but as we all know, you can't control who you fall in love with. And sometimes it's the right decision to take the risk and break your own rules.
The best friends and Erin's family are wonderful additions to the MCs and play an important role. Lia's relationship with her grandmother is also special and beautiful.
An exciting sports romance.
Thank you to Ylva and NetGalley for receiving an ARC.
This exciting sports novel takes place in the English women's football (soccer) league. But you don't have to be a soccer fan to enjoy this story. It includes some game sequences, but they are easy to understand even for those who aren't soccer fans. The story primarily focuses on two players: Erin Finch, who has been one of the world's best for years, and the up-and-coming Lia Ashford. It's about the changing dynamics within a team, rivalries and friendships, team spirit and fighting spirit, getting back on the field after a serious injury, and, of course, the battle for trophies. And not to forget Love.
Erin, who has been sidelined for months due to a serious injury, feels her place on the team threatened by the young, dynamic goal scorer Lia.
Lia has a valid reason for leaving the Wanderers after seven years and signing a contract with their archrivals, the Albions. One bright spot of the move was that she would be playing alongside her idol, Erin Finch, in the near future.
Lia's personal life is in shambles, and it has also affected her career as a soccer player. But her love of soccer is helping her get through it. Erin's fear of not reaching the same level she was at before her injury is real and can be frightening. I suffered the same injury at the end of my handball career, and it's not easy to fully trust your body again.
From the beginning, the icy and reserved Erin and the lively and open Lia clash. The tension between the two ambitious athletes is palpable, not only between them but also within the team, and the verbal battles are intense, sometimes impulsive, or the atmosphere turns frosty. But there is always curiosity and admiration for the other player. Slowly, a closer relationship develops between them, thanks in part to Erin's niece, Maisie, who sneaks her way into Lia's heart and brings Erin along with her. However, hasty judgments and insecurity repeatedly spoil the fun. But the attraction and fire between them is too great to resist. And the bed scenes are really hot.
I can understand the problems in a relationship between two teammates. As long as the relationship works, it can push both individuals to their best, but it can also destroy the entire dynamic in the team if it doesn't work. There's a push and pull going on, but as we all know, you can't control who you fall in love with. And sometimes it's the right decision to take the risk and break your own rules.
The best friends and Erin's family are wonderful additions to the MCs and play an important role. Lia's relationship with her grandmother is also special and beautiful.
An exciting sports romance.
Thank you to Ylva and NetGalley for receiving an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book made me realize how I am totally and completely in love with women’s football, I think the attitude is so hot, and the personalities too, like yes please.
The storyline was SO good, I have decided I love a sapphic sports romance, just reading about people who truly love the sport and are in their element, something they are really good at, then also just happening to find love as well? With someone that completely understands and feels the same way about the most important thing in their lives? Ugh it just hits the spot. The characters are respectful, kind, just respectful, caring and understanding. Truly they are all just such perfect people honestly, it’s just so attractive to me.
I obviously loved this book quite a bit, the romance was so hot, the romance was HOT, like perfect, beautiful, amazing, perfect. Speechless honestly. One time? HA absolutely not. When something is THAT good it has to be forever.
The story, SO interesting, you could hate sport, but reading this book? It brings you in, it makes you interested, it makes you fall in love with it, the characters passion for it is enticing. What I’m trying to say is, the storyline outside of the romance is also amazing, the story follows the team through a whole season (plus a bit more) of football games, wins and losses, injury, recovery, team building exercises, the whole package. It’s GOOD, it’s interesting, it’s exciting, the matches are like a rollercoaster.
I need to talk about Lia and Erin. BEAUTIFUL characters. Lia is beautiful, and strong, but she has no family, besides her grandmother who is in a care home, she has dementia, luckily she still has some good days, which are so beautiful to read, it’s like the book itself lights up. Then when Erin’s family find out Lia has no family? BEAUTIFUL, Lia cried and so did I. I love Lia, at the start you think she’d break, she kind of does, but she keeps going, she’s stronger than I could EVER be, I would have rampaged if what happened to her happened to me.
Erin’s family is full and beautiful, absolute stand outs in the book, Jessica and her daughter Maisie are such fun characters, getting to see Erins secret nice side when she is with Maisie is so heartwarming, the way Erin cares for them both just warms the whole world. Maisie is perfect and her mum is successful, Maisie is a complete scene stealer, one of those characters that just make you smile. Erin herself is an amazing character, she is very understandably protective of herself which is very clear in the beginning, but then as the story goes on? Experiencing her relaxing and opening up to Lia is just EVERYTHING. Thank You for this book, it truly is something so special.
The storyline was SO good, I have decided I love a sapphic sports romance, just reading about people who truly love the sport and are in their element, something they are really good at, then also just happening to find love as well? With someone that completely understands and feels the same way about the most important thing in their lives? Ugh it just hits the spot. The characters are respectful, kind, just respectful, caring and understanding. Truly they are all just such perfect people honestly, it’s just so attractive to me.
I obviously loved this book quite a bit, the romance was so hot, the romance was HOT, like perfect, beautiful, amazing, perfect. Speechless honestly. One time? HA absolutely not. When something is THAT good it has to be forever.
The story, SO interesting, you could hate sport, but reading this book? It brings you in, it makes you interested, it makes you fall in love with it, the characters passion for it is enticing. What I’m trying to say is, the storyline outside of the romance is also amazing, the story follows the team through a whole season (plus a bit more) of football games, wins and losses, injury, recovery, team building exercises, the whole package. It’s GOOD, it’s interesting, it’s exciting, the matches are like a rollercoaster.
I need to talk about Lia and Erin. BEAUTIFUL characters. Lia is beautiful, and strong, but she has no family, besides her grandmother who is in a care home, she has dementia, luckily she still has some good days, which are so beautiful to read, it’s like the book itself lights up. Then when Erin’s family find out Lia has no family? BEAUTIFUL, Lia cried and so did I. I love Lia, at the start you think she’d break, she kind of does, but she keeps going, she’s stronger than I could EVER be, I would have rampaged if what happened to her happened to me.
Erin’s family is full and beautiful, absolute stand outs in the book, Jessica and her daughter Maisie are such fun characters, getting to see Erins secret nice side when she is with Maisie is so heartwarming, the way Erin cares for them both just warms the whole world. Maisie is perfect and her mum is successful, Maisie is a complete scene stealer, one of those characters that just make you smile. Erin herself is an amazing character, she is very understandably protective of herself which is very clear in the beginning, but then as the story goes on? Experiencing her relaxing and opening up to Lia is just EVERYTHING. Thank You for this book, it truly is something so special.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Magnetic sports (UK football) romance
If you're a football (soccer) fan you'll love all the on pitch (field) action and play by play in this story. Even if you're not a sports fan it's still a page turning read with lots of drama, angst, a bit of humor and loads of butting heads between main characters Lia and Erin. The game play scenes were foreign to me (British terminology for the team positions etc) despite years of immersion in soccer as a player and fan, so I had a tendency to gloss over them to get back to more familiar territory in the story; my anchor of reference was the Ted Lasso TV series for some of what goes on in A Perfect Match, on and off pitch, but the book has way more female characters than that show did, as expected. The dynamic between Erin and Lia is electric, at times like fire and gasoline, oil and water, or magnets that attract or repel each other and powerfully so in either direction. Their communication issues are beyond anything I've read in lesfic in recent memory, with Erin in particular drawing conclusions based on unfounded assumptions combined with stubbornness in contrast to Lia's more upbeat and open hearted, earnest energy. Their verbal clashes are epic so when that shifts to more harmonious interactions (and steamy physical encounters) the contrast is unmissable. Secondary characters include an adorable child and several supportive family members along with some less likable ones. The story arc has a cinematic feel to it, with feel good moments and those that make you want to pull a character aside and give them a shake or stern talking to. It's an easy read and kept me binge reading even when I hadn't intended to. If you like characters who butt heads and clash frequently and then put all that energy to more sensual applications, and you are an avid fan of the sport, this is worth a read. It's not my favorite by author Rachael Sommers so I'd recommend other titles by her ahead of this one based on my own preferences; that said I always look forward to reading whatever she publishes next.
If you're a football (soccer) fan you'll love all the on pitch (field) action and play by play in this story. Even if you're not a sports fan it's still a page turning read with lots of drama, angst, a bit of humor and loads of butting heads between main characters Lia and Erin. The game play scenes were foreign to me (British terminology for the team positions etc) despite years of immersion in soccer as a player and fan, so I had a tendency to gloss over them to get back to more familiar territory in the story; my anchor of reference was the Ted Lasso TV series for some of what goes on in A Perfect Match, on and off pitch, but the book has way more female characters than that show did, as expected. The dynamic between Erin and Lia is electric, at times like fire and gasoline, oil and water, or magnets that attract or repel each other and powerfully so in either direction. Their communication issues are beyond anything I've read in lesfic in recent memory, with Erin in particular drawing conclusions based on unfounded assumptions combined with stubbornness in contrast to Lia's more upbeat and open hearted, earnest energy. Their verbal clashes are epic so when that shifts to more harmonious interactions (and steamy physical encounters) the contrast is unmissable. Secondary characters include an adorable child and several supportive family members along with some less likable ones. The story arc has a cinematic feel to it, with feel good moments and those that make you want to pull a character aside and give them a shake or stern talking to. It's an easy read and kept me binge reading even when I hadn't intended to. If you like characters who butt heads and clash frequently and then put all that energy to more sensual applications, and you are an avid fan of the sport, this is worth a read. It's not my favorite by author Rachael Sommers so I'd recommend other titles by her ahead of this one based on my own preferences; that said I always look forward to reading whatever she publishes next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fantastic. My first day of Winter Olympic withdrawals and I spent it reading a sports romance. This is a sports romance, with the focus on two stars of a professional women’s football/soccer team in England. Lia Ashcroft is the up and coming striker and is setting records for her team. She transfers to their rival team while staying in Manchester for reasons of her own. The star player on the new team is Erin Finch and Lia is often compared in the press as following in her footsteps. Erin is out for the next few months recovering from a torn ACL. She is concerned that Lia is being brought in to replace her as she is beginning to age out of her career.
The pair live in the same apartment building but it takes Erin’s niece to get the pair to spend time together and behave as friends. And of course they are the kind of friends who can’t stop thinking of each other. They officially don’t want to be involved with teammates but the heart wants what it wants. I thought this was a very fun book. I like the action on the field, the developing friendship and the slow reveal of loneliness. There was a sweet moment with the niece that filled my heart. They both have typical confidants that add to the story. I particularly liked the bluntness of Erin’s sister.
This is a very enjoyable story and easy to recommend. I liked the romance, heat and the sports action. You don’t have to understand soccer to read it. But I do enjoy the sport and my local professional women’s team. This vaguely reminded me of another soccer romance I read last year by Clare Lydon. The stories aren’t similar but they are both set in the English football world. Thank you to NetGalley and Ylva Publishing for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review. (4.5 Stars)
The pair live in the same apartment building but it takes Erin’s niece to get the pair to spend time together and behave as friends. And of course they are the kind of friends who can’t stop thinking of each other. They officially don’t want to be involved with teammates but the heart wants what it wants. I thought this was a very fun book. I like the action on the field, the developing friendship and the slow reveal of loneliness. There was a sweet moment with the niece that filled my heart. They both have typical confidants that add to the story. I particularly liked the bluntness of Erin’s sister.
This is a very enjoyable story and easy to recommend. I liked the romance, heat and the sports action. You don’t have to understand soccer to read it. But I do enjoy the sport and my local professional women’s team. This vaguely reminded me of another soccer romance I read last year by Clare Lydon. The stories aren’t similar but they are both set in the English football world. Thank you to NetGalley and Ylva Publishing for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review. (4.5 Stars)
March 26, 2026
Injured in the championship football game, Erin is still in recovery when the next season starts. Being on the sidelines and not being able to participate with her team is as painful as her original injury. To make it worse, her team signed a younger and healthier version of her, Lia, who she now has to watch as she seamlessly melds with her team quickly becoming the new star.
Lia left her last team after a break up with her fiancee who also played on the team. She demanded a transfer and is now playing for the club where the football player she's admired most is the injured star.
Can two teammates overcome past poor relationships with teammates to be together; or will it always be team before self?
The tension between the two football players is palpable on the pages. Lia wants to learn everything she can from her hero; Erin wants nothing to do with the person she sees as wanting to take not just her place on the team, but as the top English football player.
Erin's young niece who is a huge fan of Lia's ends up being the one to bridge the gap between them.
The book is fast paced and includes tropes of enemies to lovers, hidden romance, and overcoming poor past relationships.
I found the sports portion of the book to be somewhat predictable, or maybe I was just hoping it would end the way it did. The football aspect is more about the team dynamics than it was about tactics - but I don't read sports romances to learn about the sport so it worked for me.
If you enjoy a hidden romance set within a sports team you'd enjoy this book.
Lia left her last team after a break up with her fiancee who also played on the team. She demanded a transfer and is now playing for the club where the football player she's admired most is the injured star.
Can two teammates overcome past poor relationships with teammates to be together; or will it always be team before self?
The tension between the two football players is palpable on the pages. Lia wants to learn everything she can from her hero; Erin wants nothing to do with the person she sees as wanting to take not just her place on the team, but as the top English football player.
Erin's young niece who is a huge fan of Lia's ends up being the one to bridge the gap between them.
The book is fast paced and includes tropes of enemies to lovers, hidden romance, and overcoming poor past relationships.
I found the sports portion of the book to be somewhat predictable, or maybe I was just hoping it would end the way it did. The football aspect is more about the team dynamics than it was about tactics - but I don't read sports romances to learn about the sport so it worked for me.
If you enjoy a hidden romance set within a sports team you'd enjoy this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love sapphic books that have football players as MCs. I went into this book with a very positive mind, lots of football, getting back on the field after a serious injury and a love story, all sounded interesting. However, the love story was very superficial, and I never really felt that Lia and Erin were a perfect match, more a HFN kind of couple. What I really loved was the connection between Erin and her niece Maisie, that was described in a very loving and believable way. We get a lot of football though so overall a nice read.
Lia is leaving her football club after her fiancée has cheated on her with the coach. She just must transfer after seven years since unbearable to stay. She comes to a new club where she is to replace the injured striker Erin. Erin was one of Lia’s idols in her youth but she is now treated so poorly by her since Erin feels threatened by her presence, being replaced like this. They are real nemesis for a long time, it is really Erin’s nice Maisie that force them to get to know each other. Erin is so against having a relationship with a teammate, but they bond when Erin struggles with her injury and they start a casual thing, they do for sure feel lust for each other. We know that will lead to something more for sure but if they will stay happy long term doubtful and not possible to tell with the extremely short epilogue.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave an honest review voluntarily.
Lia is leaving her football club after her fiancée has cheated on her with the coach. She just must transfer after seven years since unbearable to stay. She comes to a new club where she is to replace the injured striker Erin. Erin was one of Lia’s idols in her youth but she is now treated so poorly by her since Erin feels threatened by her presence, being replaced like this. They are real nemesis for a long time, it is really Erin’s nice Maisie that force them to get to know each other. Erin is so against having a relationship with a teammate, but they bond when Erin struggles with her injury and they start a casual thing, they do for sure feel lust for each other. We know that will lead to something more for sure but if they will stay happy long term doubtful and not possible to tell with the extremely short epilogue.
I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave an honest review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A heated enemies to lovers lesbian sports romance 🩷🧡⚽
Lia Ashcroft is establishing her name as a rising star player in the women's English football league. She's won several trophies with her team and no one would expect that Lia would ever leave Wanderers. In fact it takes her discovering her fiancée and teammate cheating on her with their coach to ask for a transfer.
Erin Finch is known for her talent and for being a pioneer in women's football. Unfortunately, she suffered an injury and she's going to have to take time to recover. She believes this may be the end of her career. This thought gets harder to defeat when younger Lia Ashcroft is transferred to Albion from her team's longtime rivals.
This was a delicious, low stakes enemies to lovers romance. Lia and Erin's characters were well written and I found their dynamic quite interesting. They were "enemies" or better rivals, for most of the book, and this didn't make me lose interest when they finally admitted their feelings. I loved their banter. And the spice was fun as well. The side characters were cool too, and in general I loved how this book was dominated by women. Loved Gerrard the cat! Nice nod to Liverpool.
Well, I obviously liked that they were football players. This was one of the reasons I decided to read it. I watch football and the way the games where described was very realistic.
Thanks to Ylva Publishing for the chance to read an ARC :)
Lia Ashcroft is establishing her name as a rising star player in the women's English football league. She's won several trophies with her team and no one would expect that Lia would ever leave Wanderers. In fact it takes her discovering her fiancée and teammate cheating on her with their coach to ask for a transfer.
Erin Finch is known for her talent and for being a pioneer in women's football. Unfortunately, she suffered an injury and she's going to have to take time to recover. She believes this may be the end of her career. This thought gets harder to defeat when younger Lia Ashcroft is transferred to Albion from her team's longtime rivals.
This was a delicious, low stakes enemies to lovers romance. Lia and Erin's characters were well written and I found their dynamic quite interesting. They were "enemies" or better rivals, for most of the book, and this didn't make me lose interest when they finally admitted their feelings. I loved their banter. And the spice was fun as well. The side characters were cool too, and in general I loved how this book was dominated by women. Loved Gerrard the cat! Nice nod to Liverpool.
Well, I obviously liked that they were football players. This was one of the reasons I decided to read it. I watch football and the way the games where described was very realistic.
Thanks to Ylva Publishing for the chance to read an ARC :)
February 25, 2026
Erin Finch is dealing with an injury that has sidelined her for the year, and she is not happy. Worse, her place on the team is being filled by Lia Ashcroft, her biggest rival.
Lia needed to leave her team suddenly after learning her Coach slept with her fiance Hannah. Lia, however, needs to stay in the region to watch over her Granny in care, so she ends up joining the rival team.
Lia swiftly wins over her new team, but Erin avoids her like the plague. Lia finally confronts her, and Erin vents about how she sees Lia as her replacement.
Complicating matters, Erin's niece Maisie is a huge fan of Lia, and wants them all to hang out together.
After a second, minor injury Erin is spiraling, and Lia tries to reassure her. They sleep together, but both decide it's a bad idea to sleep with a teammate at this point.
Both are miserable, and decide to try it again. Erin fully recovers, they get serious, wrap up....
4 out of 5 stars. I do feel it needed a bit more plot, but is pretty good.
Lia needed to leave her team suddenly after learning her Coach slept with her fiance Hannah. Lia, however, needs to stay in the region to watch over her Granny in care, so she ends up joining the rival team.
Lia swiftly wins over her new team, but Erin avoids her like the plague. Lia finally confronts her, and Erin vents about how she sees Lia as her replacement.
Complicating matters, Erin's niece Maisie is a huge fan of Lia, and wants them all to hang out together.
After a second, minor injury Erin is spiraling, and Lia tries to reassure her. They sleep together, but both decide it's a bad idea to sleep with a teammate at this point.
Both are miserable, and decide to try it again. Erin fully recovers, they get serious, wrap up....
4 out of 5 stars. I do feel it needed a bit more plot, but is pretty good.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a fun read, especially if you’re a sports lover. The tension between the two main characters is palpable through the story as they navigate playing their best and getting out of (or rather into) each others way in their personal lives.
I would have loved to see a little more intimate dialogue between the two main characters. A bulk of the interaction between Lia and Erin is done while either fighting with each other or in the hushed presence of others. While the author made it clear the physical connection was there I wish there was a little more going on emotionally. A lot of the big emotions centered around loses in the game and major injuries rather than an intimate connection or knowledge of each other.
That being said this was still a great read. Very quick to get through and is really going to win over anyone who loves a good game of football (or soccer depending on where on the world you reside!)
I would have loved to see a little more intimate dialogue between the two main characters. A bulk of the interaction between Lia and Erin is done while either fighting with each other or in the hushed presence of others. While the author made it clear the physical connection was there I wish there was a little more going on emotionally. A lot of the big emotions centered around loses in the game and major injuries rather than an intimate connection or knowledge of each other.
That being said this was still a great read. Very quick to get through and is really going to win over anyone who loves a good game of football (or soccer depending on where on the world you reside!)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book transformed me into the world of women’s football and I couldn’t help hoping both Erin and Lia would score in their love lives!
The tension between Erin and Lea was delicious and I loved reading their relationship evolve. Erin’s character development was beautiful and I was rooting for Lia to receive the love she deserved.
The pacing was solid overall and kept me engaged throughout. My only wish would be for the conflict to be resolved a little less neatly. I feel lingering tension would’ve allowed for the reader to dive deeper into both Lia and Erin’s feelings and character growth.
This book was engaging, transforming the reader into the world of football. If you like a book with strong characters, emotional depth and a great enemies to lovers pay off this is a must read!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
The tension between Erin and Lea was delicious and I loved reading their relationship evolve. Erin’s character development was beautiful and I was rooting for Lia to receive the love she deserved.
The pacing was solid overall and kept me engaged throughout. My only wish would be for the conflict to be resolved a little less neatly. I feel lingering tension would’ve allowed for the reader to dive deeper into both Lia and Erin’s feelings and character growth.
This book was engaging, transforming the reader into the world of football. If you like a book with strong characters, emotional depth and a great enemies to lovers pay off this is a must read!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
February 25, 2026
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.
This is an engaging read with genuinely likable characters. The writing flows with an easy confidence that keeps the pages turning, and the chemistry between the leads is palpable. Overall, it makes for a thoroughly enjoyable few hours.
I would have loved to see more depth in their conversations, especially emotionally. My main hesitation was the speed of Erin’s shift—from firmly against a relationship with a teammate to friends with benefits, and then quickly to “let’s be girlfriends.” I wanted to experience more of that progression on the page and better understand her emotional turning point.
That said, I still very much enjoyed the story.
This is an engaging read with genuinely likable characters. The writing flows with an easy confidence that keeps the pages turning, and the chemistry between the leads is palpable. Overall, it makes for a thoroughly enjoyable few hours.
I would have loved to see more depth in their conversations, especially emotionally. My main hesitation was the speed of Erin’s shift—from firmly against a relationship with a teammate to friends with benefits, and then quickly to “let’s be girlfriends.” I wanted to experience more of that progression on the page and better understand her emotional turning point.
That said, I still very much enjoyed the story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a fun read, regardless of whether or not you are a football/soccer fan. The push-and-pull energy between Lia and Erin was engaging from the beginning, and I loved seeing both of them grow and adapt through the novel. Both main characters felt super realistic and relatable, as did the side characters. I’d love to see more books set in this same universe. I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for an enemies-to-lovers storyline with two strong leads, a great mix of drama and action, and relatively low overall angst.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
March 14, 2026
Winning goal
I truly enjoyed this sports romance! It had a bit of everything one hopes for in a love story: rivals to lovers, undeniable chemistry, competitive tension, a cute kid, and, of course, a cat. This is a well-written story with characters that have depth and were relatable. The story provided just enough sports details to feel realistic without dragging things out. You couldn't help but root for Lia and Erin to figure it out. This is the book for you if you love sporty romances.
I truly enjoyed this sports romance! It had a bit of everything one hopes for in a love story: rivals to lovers, undeniable chemistry, competitive tension, a cute kid, and, of course, a cat. This is a well-written story with characters that have depth and were relatable. The story provided just enough sports details to feel realistic without dragging things out. You couldn't help but root for Lia and Erin to figure it out. This is the book for you if you love sporty romances.
February 25, 2026
This is a well-written rivals to lovers sports romance detailing injury recovery and healing from a cheating partner. I loved how Erin was with her niece, those were always my favorite parts. Otherwise, I wish I'd known it was age-gap because those are so very rarely my cup of tea. This one's not bad for an age gap. I think the sports focus made up for it for me.
Thank you to Ylva for the opportunity to read and review.
Thank you to Ylva for the opportunity to read and review.
March 12, 2026
A Wonderful Pair
I love women,s football and I love Sapphic romances, so this was an unbeatable pairing. It could have been the opposite and a cliche, but luckily was not. It had a threat storyline, realistic characters, hot sex and a wonderful happy ending. Even if you know nothing about football you'll still love the story.
I love women,s football and I love Sapphic romances, so this was an unbeatable pairing. It could have been the opposite and a cliche, but luckily was not. It had a threat storyline, realistic characters, hot sex and a wonderful happy ending. Even if you know nothing about football you'll still love the story.
March 20, 2026
Football (soccer) Goals.
Rachael Sommers has reached into the hearts of football fans and delivered us a cracking good read.
Erin and Lia are a 'striking' couple.
Rachael Sommers has reached into the hearts of football fans and delivered us a cracking good read.
Erin and Lia are a 'striking' couple.
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