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Second Down and Second Chances
Lawrence Poe, tight end for the Green Bay River Foxes, is a type-A control freak who functions best when his house is clean, his spreadsheets are updated, and his protein shakes are precisely measured. Adding a four-year-old to his structured schedule isn’t going to be easy, but his sister needs him to watch his niece, and he always shows up for his family. Still, with training camp and other football commitments, Lawrence can’t watch Ana alone. Enter Beni Fitzgerald—his sister’s best friend and Ana’s Godmother—a woman who threatens every aspect of his controlled, orderly life.
An artistic free spirit, Beni Fitzgerald is a type-B dreamer who lives by the mantra all will be well. No, she wouldn’t choose to spend the summer living with a man who is her polar opposite, but she’ll do anything for her Goddaughter, even if that puts her directly in the path of Lawrence Poe. Beni has always yearned for a place to belong, and Lawrence made it clear it’s not with him after he gave her the best kiss of her life five years ago only to pull away and call it all a mistake.
But their forced proximity requires compromise, and as the duo grows in understanding and trust, both Lawrence and Beni realize this could be a summer of second chances.
Three months. Two enemies. Under one roof. Everything could go wrong. But what if they’ve stumbled into something right?
Second Down and Second Chances is a snappy and sizzling closed door romance with kissing only and no implied intimacy, perfect for fans of the opposites attract and enemies to more tropes. This is the second book in the River Foxes Football Romance series. All titles can be read as standalones.
An artistic free spirit, Beni Fitzgerald is a type-B dreamer who lives by the mantra all will be well. No, she wouldn’t choose to spend the summer living with a man who is her polar opposite, but she’ll do anything for her Goddaughter, even if that puts her directly in the path of Lawrence Poe. Beni has always yearned for a place to belong, and Lawrence made it clear it’s not with him after he gave her the best kiss of her life five years ago only to pull away and call it all a mistake.
But their forced proximity requires compromise, and as the duo grows in understanding and trust, both Lawrence and Beni realize this could be a summer of second chances.
Three months. Two enemies. Under one roof. Everything could go wrong. But what if they’ve stumbled into something right?
Second Down and Second Chances is a snappy and sizzling closed door romance with kissing only and no implied intimacy, perfect for fans of the opposites attract and enemies to more tropes. This is the second book in the River Foxes Football Romance series. All titles can be read as standalones.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 8, 2026
About the author
Leah Dobrinska
17 books316 followersLeah Dobrinska is the author of the Songwriter Sleuth Mysteries, the Larkspur Library Mysteries, the Fall In Love romcom series, and the Mapleton novels. She earned her degree in English Literature from UW-Madison where she was awarded the Dean’s Prize and served as a Writing Fellow. She has since worked as a freelance writer, editor, and content marketer. As a kid, she hoped to grow up to be either Nancy Drew or Elizabeth Bennet. Now, she fulfills that dream by writing mysteries and love stories.
A sucker for a good sentence, a happy ending, and the smell of books—both old and new—Leah lives out her very own happily ever after in a small Wisconsin town with her husband and their gaggle of kids. When she's not writing, handing out snacks, visiting the local library, or doing projects around the house, Leah enjoys reading and running. Find out more about Leah, join her newsletter community, and connect with her through her website, leahdobrinska.com.
A sucker for a good sentence, a happy ending, and the smell of books—both old and new—Leah lives out her very own happily ever after in a small Wisconsin town with her husband and their gaggle of kids. When she's not writing, handing out snacks, visiting the local library, or doing projects around the house, Leah enjoys reading and running. Find out more about Leah, join her newsletter community, and connect with her through her website, leahdobrinska.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 19, 2026
Whatta sweet read!
(Reviewing from husband’s account)
4.5 stars
Y’all, this was so cute!! I really enjoyed the second half of the book where these two stopped fighting their feelings and started breaking down walls with one another. The first half made me sad, mostly because Lawrence pushed Beni away when he could’ve been so good with her. I just wanted them to love each other from the beginning, but it’s fine. They got there and he was obsessed with her. We love to see it!! Del is adorable, and I’m excited to see what story comes next.
(Reviewing from husband’s account)
4.5 stars
Y’all, this was so cute!! I really enjoyed the second half of the book where these two stopped fighting their feelings and started breaking down walls with one another. The first half made me sad, mostly because Lawrence pushed Beni away when he could’ve been so good with her. I just wanted them to love each other from the beginning, but it’s fine. They got there and he was obsessed with her. We love to see it!! Del is adorable, and I’m excited to see what story comes next.
October 3, 2026
Another great Leah Dobrinska book!
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
September 11, 2026
Lily’s Content Guide
💋 Romance level: Kisses Only
🗣️ Language: None
⚠️ Content Warning: loss of parent(past)
📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance
🎀 Lily’s verdict: 🤎 It was good
This was such a fun grumpy x sunshine romance! There was some genuine loathing happening in that first half😂 which made watching their relationship slowly change that much more fun.
And precious little Anna🥹 She absolutely stole my heart!
I really enjoyed the character development in this one. Both MCs had a lot to work through, which gave the story so much depth, and I loved watching their relationship develop along the way. And the slow burn was SO good😍
Overall, this was such an enjoyable sports romance with a great mix of emotional moments, tension, and sweetness🤍
This is book two in the River Foxes Football Romance series, but the books can be read in order or as standalones! ✨
🎨Grumpy x Sunshine
🏈Second Chance Romance
🎨Sports Romance
🏈Best Friend’s Brother
🎨Age Gap
🏈Forced Proximity
💋 Romance level: Kisses Only
🗣️ Language: None
⚠️ Content Warning: loss of parent(past)
📚 Genre: Contemporary Romance
🎀 Lily’s verdict: 🤎 It was good
This was such a fun grumpy x sunshine romance! There was some genuine loathing happening in that first half😂 which made watching their relationship slowly change that much more fun.
And precious little Anna🥹 She absolutely stole my heart!
I really enjoyed the character development in this one. Both MCs had a lot to work through, which gave the story so much depth, and I loved watching their relationship develop along the way. And the slow burn was SO good😍
Overall, this was such an enjoyable sports romance with a great mix of emotional moments, tension, and sweetness🤍
This is book two in the River Foxes Football Romance series, but the books can be read in order or as standalones! ✨
🎨Grumpy x Sunshine
🏈Second Chance Romance
🎨Sports Romance
🏈Best Friend’s Brother
🎨Age Gap
🏈Forced Proximity
August 17, 2026
Leah never fails to deliver stories with heart, romance, and personal victories. Beni and Lawrence were no different!
Beni is all creative energy and positive vibes. All about pleasing those around her. Lawrence is all cleanliness, order and control. He runs a tight ship and keeps his life in order. When Beni and his niece Ana crash at his place to be Ana’s caregivers for a few months, his orderly life comes crashing down around him. Their past comes back to haunt them. Will they be able to work through their differences, or will they burn the house to the ground?
Such a beautiful story of how opposites attract and how living selflessly looks different in each person. I loved how Beni and Law both had to overcome their own insecurities and fears in order to get together. Their happily ever after is hard-won, but so worth it. Go give it a read!
Thank you Leah for the ARC. I enjoyed every moment, and all opinions are my own.
Beni is all creative energy and positive vibes. All about pleasing those around her. Lawrence is all cleanliness, order and control. He runs a tight ship and keeps his life in order. When Beni and his niece Ana crash at his place to be Ana’s caregivers for a few months, his orderly life comes crashing down around him. Their past comes back to haunt them. Will they be able to work through their differences, or will they burn the house to the ground?
Such a beautiful story of how opposites attract and how living selflessly looks different in each person. I loved how Beni and Law both had to overcome their own insecurities and fears in order to get together. Their happily ever after is hard-won, but so worth it. Go give it a read!
Thank you Leah for the ARC. I enjoyed every moment, and all opinions are my own.
September 22, 2026
It was so good I cried 🥹
Listen the depth and healing in this book got me. I cried several times. Law and Beni were adorable and their growth was perfection. I loved it.
Listen the depth and healing in this book got me. I cried several times. Law and Beni were adorable and their growth was perfection. I loved it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
Ah, this was just so sweet and I loved coming back to this series. Beni and Lawrence were definitely fiery with each other and it was a lot of fun to read about their interactions. Second Down and Second Chances is the second book in Leah Dobrinska’s series, River Foxes Football Romance.
Beni and Lawrence definitely had their challenges. They had a history together and had made assumptions about each other. But it was sweet how they put aside their differences to help Lawrence's sister and niece. I loved reading about them getting to know each other better and seeing that they might have made some wrong assumptions. They were both just people who were trying to belong.
I really felt for both of them as they navigated their relationship and cared for Ana. They were more enemies at first but they grew to friends and more. Lawrence was just a big sweetheart who wanted to protect those under his care. He would just blurt out things when he was nervous but he tried his best. Beni just wanted someone to truly see her. She embraced life fully but she also had to learn not to run in fear. I love how they took the time to see the other person and try to understand their fears and hopes.
The romance fit them. It was a slow burn as they worked through their frustrations. I loved how the football team supported Lawrence. Their interactions were so funny. I really enjoyed this book and I would totally recommend it! I am so excited for the next book! Del’s book is going to be amazing. Second Down and Second Chances is a closed door romantic comedy.
What I loved:
Ana! She was so much fun
The chemistry between Beni and Lawrence
The football team
Doris and her neighborly ways
The way that they supported each other
Hope and learning
I received a complimentary copy
Ah, this was just so sweet and I loved coming back to this series. Beni and Lawrence were definitely fiery with each other and it was a lot of fun to read about their interactions. Second Down and Second Chances is the second book in Leah Dobrinska’s series, River Foxes Football Romance.
Beni and Lawrence definitely had their challenges. They had a history together and had made assumptions about each other. But it was sweet how they put aside their differences to help Lawrence's sister and niece. I loved reading about them getting to know each other better and seeing that they might have made some wrong assumptions. They were both just people who were trying to belong.
I really felt for both of them as they navigated their relationship and cared for Ana. They were more enemies at first but they grew to friends and more. Lawrence was just a big sweetheart who wanted to protect those under his care. He would just blurt out things when he was nervous but he tried his best. Beni just wanted someone to truly see her. She embraced life fully but she also had to learn not to run in fear. I love how they took the time to see the other person and try to understand their fears and hopes.
The romance fit them. It was a slow burn as they worked through their frustrations. I loved how the football team supported Lawrence. Their interactions were so funny. I really enjoyed this book and I would totally recommend it! I am so excited for the next book! Del’s book is going to be amazing. Second Down and Second Chances is a closed door romantic comedy.
What I loved:
Ana! She was so much fun
The chemistry between Beni and Lawrence
The football team
Doris and her neighborly ways
The way that they supported each other
Hope and learning
I received a complimentary copy
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness, another WINNER from Leah. I absolutely LOVED this one. I am not joking when I say I knew it would be a 5 star read after only about 10% of the book. You could literally feel their chemistry with one another AND the enemies to lovers vibes was TOP TIER. They REALLY did not like one another. At all. But they also had intense attraction to one another that eventually they couldn't deny. 😉
More than their chemistry though, both of their stories were really tender. Beni is a people pleaser and often puts everyone else before herself. She's loud, messy and has often run from relationships before she can get hurt or left behind. In the past, her personality was seen as a flaw ... until Law. 😉
Law is regimented, organized and likes things a certain way. His past relationships faltered because of this. Both Beni & Law saw their personalities as bad, and that no one could really love them because of it. Throughout the book you see both of them notice the other and accept these different personalities and traits. They see past it and see WHY they are the way they are. & ultimately ... it's why they fall in love with the other. They compliment one another beautifully. They had to go through some messy stuff to be together, but they realized it was worth the fight!
And I can't leave this review without mentioning their adorable niece. She really stole the show often in the book. She was just so lovable. And there was a moment at the end where I literally DIED laughing so hard because of something she said to them. She's sassy but also full of love.
More than their chemistry though, both of their stories were really tender. Beni is a people pleaser and often puts everyone else before herself. She's loud, messy and has often run from relationships before she can get hurt or left behind. In the past, her personality was seen as a flaw ... until Law. 😉
Law is regimented, organized and likes things a certain way. His past relationships faltered because of this. Both Beni & Law saw their personalities as bad, and that no one could really love them because of it. Throughout the book you see both of them notice the other and accept these different personalities and traits. They see past it and see WHY they are the way they are. & ultimately ... it's why they fall in love with the other. They compliment one another beautifully. They had to go through some messy stuff to be together, but they realized it was worth the fight!
And I can't leave this review without mentioning their adorable niece. She really stole the show often in the book. She was just so lovable. And there was a moment at the end where I literally DIED laughing so hard because of something she said to them. She's sassy but also full of love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this sweet, closed-door sports romance! Second Down and Second Chances has everything I love in a romance—forced proximity, slow burn, banter, and a relationship that goes from almost lovers to enemies to lovers.
Beni is an artsy, creative mess who doesn't see herself as having it all together, while Lawrence is a tight end who thrives on everything being clean, organized, and exactly where it belongs. Needless to say, these two are basically complete opposites, which makes their interactions SO much fun. Their banter and chemistry had me smiling throughout the book.
I especially loved the relationship they both have with Ana. Lawrence is completely devoted to his niece, while Beni is her godmother and has been part of her life for years. Watching the three of them spend time together was one of my favorite parts of the story. And Ana? Absolutely adorable and just the right amount of sassy.
And then there’s Doris, the elderly neighbor who had me laughing every time she showed up. Every romance needs a Doris!
This was such a fun, sweet, feel-good romance, but it also had plenty of heart. I loved watching Beni and Lawrence work through their differences and figure out what they really wanted—and I especially loved seeing Beni begin to recognize that maybe she isn't the mess she thinks she is.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC. This was such a fun read, and I can't wait to see what comes next!
Beni is an artsy, creative mess who doesn't see herself as having it all together, while Lawrence is a tight end who thrives on everything being clean, organized, and exactly where it belongs. Needless to say, these two are basically complete opposites, which makes their interactions SO much fun. Their banter and chemistry had me smiling throughout the book.
I especially loved the relationship they both have with Ana. Lawrence is completely devoted to his niece, while Beni is her godmother and has been part of her life for years. Watching the three of them spend time together was one of my favorite parts of the story. And Ana? Absolutely adorable and just the right amount of sassy.
And then there’s Doris, the elderly neighbor who had me laughing every time she showed up. Every romance needs a Doris!
This was such a fun, sweet, feel-good romance, but it also had plenty of heart. I loved watching Beni and Lawrence work through their differences and figure out what they really wanted—and I especially loved seeing Beni begin to recognize that maybe she isn't the mess she thinks she is.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC. This was such a fun read, and I can't wait to see what comes next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
With football season starting, I have a great recommendation for a timely romcom. I have been an ARC reader for Leah Dobrinska for a bit, and I enjoy her humor, her writing, and her ability to write a good swoony moment! She did not disappoint with Second Down and Second Chances. What a great book!
Artist Beni and Riverfox Tight End Lawrence, who are both antagonistic toward each other after a wonderful evening that went awry, have to take care of four-year-old Anastasia (Lawrences’s niece/daughter of Beni’s best friend in the world) while her mom is deployed overseas. Their very opposite personalities, plus their long-held hurts, make for a quite the struggle.
Now, I normally don’t like second-chance tropes. My big issue with the trope is that often, the characters in a relationship have not grown beyond the issues that caused the initial separation, so it makes little sense for them to get back together.
However, Dobrinska handled the second-chance trope better than that. Both Beni and Lawrence have grown since that evening, and also have matured enough to recognize they need to work together to make sure to care for Ana. Beni needs to be more aware of the mess her chaos leaves, and Lawrence needs to be ok with some flexibility.
If you are looking for a no-spice rom-com featuring football, I highly recommend “Second Downs”, along with the two previous books featuring the Riverfoxes “Exes Don’t” and “First Down and Forever to Go”.
Artist Beni and Riverfox Tight End Lawrence, who are both antagonistic toward each other after a wonderful evening that went awry, have to take care of four-year-old Anastasia (Lawrences’s niece/daughter of Beni’s best friend in the world) while her mom is deployed overseas. Their very opposite personalities, plus their long-held hurts, make for a quite the struggle.
Now, I normally don’t like second-chance tropes. My big issue with the trope is that often, the characters in a relationship have not grown beyond the issues that caused the initial separation, so it makes little sense for them to get back together.
However, Dobrinska handled the second-chance trope better than that. Both Beni and Lawrence have grown since that evening, and also have matured enough to recognize they need to work together to make sure to care for Ana. Beni needs to be more aware of the mess her chaos leaves, and Lawrence needs to be ok with some flexibility.
If you are looking for a no-spice rom-com featuring football, I highly recommend “Second Downs”, along with the two previous books featuring the Riverfoxes “Exes Don’t” and “First Down and Forever to Go”.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness, this book! Sports romance. Grumpy/sunshine. Second chances. Best friend's older brother. An early first kiss. Honestly, it's like Leah took so many of my favorites and put them together in this story... and what a good story it was! Right from the start, the chemistry between Lawrence and Beni was flying off the pages. That first kiss, my goodness! I couldn't help but love these two... and then, that romantic fire took a turn and suddenly we're in an enemies to more situation... and I was truly here for it all. As a perfectionist control-freak, I have to say I related to Law entirely more than I would like to admit. He definitely could come across as more of an uptight grump, but there was reason behind it... and so much more to him beyond that! I loved how these two not only balanced each other out well, but also fully accepted those very different parts of their individual personalities. Leah Bobrinska never fails to deliver stories that I love, and this one was no exception. And with the intro to the next story... oh, I absolutely cannot wait!
Second Down and Second Chances is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is the second book in the River Foxes Football Romance series, but I do think it could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Second Down and Second Chances is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is the second book in the River Foxes Football Romance series, but I do think it could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
×× Thank you for the opportunity to be part of your ARC team! xx
I had the pleasure of reading another wonderful book by Leah Dobrinska and literally had a hard time putting it down. The sizzling dynamic between Beni and Lawrence Poe was so wonderful, full of transformation, sharing forgiveness, and sharing mutual love for some great people in their lives.
Once again, the River Foxes team mates and their women were perfectly mixed in. Beni, feeling insecure about belonging, fit right in with Rose and Lucy and the rest of the crew. I love seeing how supportive they all are of each other ans lovingly encourage each other. Seeing the banter and the text conversations were such a great addition to the storyline too!
It was so nice to see the more intimate and soft side of Poe, learning of his past, and seeing him open up. The fact that Beni and Poe bond over a mutual love of flowers made it even better. And the artwork!!! I loved seeing how they transformed over their 3 months as primary caretakers for sweet Ana. It will seriously melt your heart and make you tear up.
Another fantastic River Foxes book! I can't wait for Del's story next. That teddy bear of man deserves to find his love after everything he's done to support his closest friends. 😁
I had the pleasure of reading another wonderful book by Leah Dobrinska and literally had a hard time putting it down. The sizzling dynamic between Beni and Lawrence Poe was so wonderful, full of transformation, sharing forgiveness, and sharing mutual love for some great people in their lives.
Once again, the River Foxes team mates and their women were perfectly mixed in. Beni, feeling insecure about belonging, fit right in with Rose and Lucy and the rest of the crew. I love seeing how supportive they all are of each other ans lovingly encourage each other. Seeing the banter and the text conversations were such a great addition to the storyline too!
It was so nice to see the more intimate and soft side of Poe, learning of his past, and seeing him open up. The fact that Beni and Poe bond over a mutual love of flowers made it even better. And the artwork!!! I loved seeing how they transformed over their 3 months as primary caretakers for sweet Ana. It will seriously melt your heart and make you tear up.
Another fantastic River Foxes book! I can't wait for Del's story next. That teddy bear of man deserves to find his love after everything he's done to support his closest friends. 😁
Review of advance copy received from Author
☆5
Oh my goodness, are you kidding!?🥹
This was so adorable, I could not stop grinning throughout the whole book.
Beni and Lawerence’s story was beautiful but also messy. And that just made the story and the characters feel so much more real.
Lawerence was a protective, caring sweetheart. He was so adorable with Ana, his niece. Through he was grumpy and very Type A, he was perfect for Beni. The way he treated Beni so gently and tenderly was absolutely everything! I love that he always made sure to include Beni, so she had somewhere to belong. And someone to belong to.
The meaning of flowers throughout the book just makes me tear up every single time.🥹 I love how Leah interweaved them into the book.
The time where he surprised her with an at-home gallery show and her family was the sweetest, it made me smile so much.
And can we just talk about that bonus epilogue!? I can’t wait for book 3!
tropes:
🧡enemies to more
🧡roommates
🧡best friends brother
🧡grumpy x sunshine
🧡opposites attract
🧡fake dating
🧡football player x artist
🧡she takes care of him
🧡dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
Oh my goodness, are you kidding!?🥹
This was so adorable, I could not stop grinning throughout the whole book.
Beni and Lawerence’s story was beautiful but also messy. And that just made the story and the characters feel so much more real.
Lawerence was a protective, caring sweetheart. He was so adorable with Ana, his niece. Through he was grumpy and very Type A, he was perfect for Beni. The way he treated Beni so gently and tenderly was absolutely everything! I love that he always made sure to include Beni, so she had somewhere to belong. And someone to belong to.
The meaning of flowers throughout the book just makes me tear up every single time.🥹 I love how Leah interweaved them into the book.
The time where he surprised her with an at-home gallery show and her family was the sweetest, it made me smile so much.
And can we just talk about that bonus epilogue!? I can’t wait for book 3!
tropes:
🧡enemies to more
🧡roommates
🧡best friends brother
🧡grumpy x sunshine
🧡opposites attract
🧡fake dating
🧡football player x artist
🧡she takes care of him
🧡dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Second Down, Second Chances hooked me from the very first chapters — a whirlwind kiss, an immediate rejection, and chemistry so sharp you can practically feel it crackle. When Lawrence and Beni are reunited, and she ends up staying in his apartment to look after his niece, it sets the stage for one of my favourite dynamics: a slow‑burn enemies‑to‑friends‑to‑more that unfolds with charm and heart.
I adored the grumpy sunshine dynamic between them. Lawrence’s tightly‑wound, everything‑in‑its‑place personality is the perfect foil to Beni’s chaotic creativity, and watching those edges soften — especially as he learns to embrace the messy, joyful moments of life again — was genuinely lovely.
Beni’s journey is the emotional centre of the book. Her gradual shift from feeling unmoored to finding a place where she truly belongs is beautifully handled. And the depiction of a bubbly but utterly exhausting four‑year‑old? Spot on. It adds realism, humour, and tenderness to the story without ever overwhelming it.
This was such a fun, heartwarming read — full of spark, growth, and the kind of chemistry that makes you grin. A perfect pick if you love slow burns, opposites‑attract tension, and characters who find their way back to joy.
I adored the grumpy sunshine dynamic between them. Lawrence’s tightly‑wound, everything‑in‑its‑place personality is the perfect foil to Beni’s chaotic creativity, and watching those edges soften — especially as he learns to embrace the messy, joyful moments of life again — was genuinely lovely.
Beni’s journey is the emotional centre of the book. Her gradual shift from feeling unmoored to finding a place where she truly belongs is beautifully handled. And the depiction of a bubbly but utterly exhausting four‑year‑old? Spot on. It adds realism, humour, and tenderness to the story without ever overwhelming it.
This was such a fun, heartwarming read — full of spark, growth, and the kind of chemistry that makes you grin. A perfect pick if you love slow burns, opposites‑attract tension, and characters who find their way back to joy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An opposites attract and second chance romance with lots of good banter, yes please! I enjoyed this book so much.
Lawrence is such a type A personality and Beni is very much not. It leads to lots of humorous moments and growth for both characters as they leaned into each other’s strengths. Then there is the adorable Ana who added so much in bringing them together.
My favorite parts:
-the flashback-
-the garden-swooon
-mud kitchen-
-Doris- Lawrence’s neighbor. She was so funny.
-the concert.
-the grand gesture
Favorite Quotes
“You take pictures of flowers.” She directs the comment more to herself than to me. “We have flowers in common,” she adds with a brief glance in my direction. “It’s surprising.”
“That I take flower photos or that we have something in common?”
Her lips tick up. “Both.”
“Consider me invested.”
She’s captivating all the time, with her spirit and the way she dives in with both feet to whatever is in front of her, but watching her focus and dab different colors together, imagining what’s happening in her mind that’ll translate to something she’s created from nothing on the canvas, is next level. She’s got a smudge of green paint on her cheek that’s the same color as her eyes.
This man. Sweet and salty all at once. My favorite kind of snack. I’m in big trouble.
“Talking is overrated. Maybe you could kiss me again.”
“Or that.”
Lawrence is such a type A personality and Beni is very much not. It leads to lots of humorous moments and growth for both characters as they leaned into each other’s strengths. Then there is the adorable Ana who added so much in bringing them together.
My favorite parts:
-the flashback-
-the garden-swooon
-mud kitchen-
-Doris- Lawrence’s neighbor. She was so funny.
-the concert.
-the grand gesture
Favorite Quotes
“You take pictures of flowers.” She directs the comment more to herself than to me. “We have flowers in common,” she adds with a brief glance in my direction. “It’s surprising.”
“That I take flower photos or that we have something in common?”
Her lips tick up. “Both.”
“Consider me invested.”
She’s captivating all the time, with her spirit and the way she dives in with both feet to whatever is in front of her, but watching her focus and dab different colors together, imagining what’s happening in her mind that’ll translate to something she’s created from nothing on the canvas, is next level. She’s got a smudge of green paint on her cheek that’s the same color as her eyes.
This man. Sweet and salty all at once. My favorite kind of snack. I’m in big trouble.
“Talking is overrated. Maybe you could kiss me again.”
“Or that.”
August 14, 2026
Leah Dobrinska can’t write a bad book! Another 5 star read by her! This is the story of Beni and Lawrence and their love-hate relationship. The way that Leah seamlessly goes from describing the past and the present is flawless. Her description writing is superb because it adds to the story, helps paint a better picture, but isn’t overly flowery.
I love that she develops the characters in a way that makes you fall more in love with them as the story goes on. I mean, who wouldn’t want someone to book them an all expense paid spa day?!
The relatability of the characters and their problems draws the reader in. I’m sure we’ve all had a time where we feel less than like Beni does and like our “quirks” are too much like Lawrence does.
Leah is a must read author for me and this book once again proves why. Now to wait for her to announce the release date of the next book in this series!
* I was provided an arc of this book. This review is completely my opinion and I received no compensation for it.
I love that she develops the characters in a way that makes you fall more in love with them as the story goes on. I mean, who wouldn’t want someone to book them an all expense paid spa day?!
The relatability of the characters and their problems draws the reader in. I’m sure we’ve all had a time where we feel less than like Beni does and like our “quirks” are too much like Lawrence does.
Leah is a must read author for me and this book once again proves why. Now to wait for her to announce the release date of the next book in this series!
* I was provided an arc of this book. This review is completely my opinion and I received no compensation for it.
October 4, 2026
I love a good annoyed to more trope and this one is great! I mean when you get a kiss in the first chapter, what’s not to like?!? 🤭 Beni and Lawrence are COMPLETE opposites of each other and they have been talked into watching Lawrence’s 4 year old niece for the summer while her mom is deployed out to sea.
Things start rough as they are basically co-parenting while trying to avoid each other. Everyone around them can feel the tension between the two but also see that they would make an amazing pair.
Beni is an artist and living with a mild control freak like Law is a bit of a challenge but as the two start orbiting around each other they realize they really do compliment each other.
I loved how flowers played a part of their story. It just made it vibrant and beautiful. Law was at time gruff and awkward but when you read about his soft spot for flowers you realize he’s just a big ol’ teddy bear in the inside.
This is a great book for the fall football season and a lovely 2nd book in the Rover Foxes Football series!
Things start rough as they are basically co-parenting while trying to avoid each other. Everyone around them can feel the tension between the two but also see that they would make an amazing pair.
Beni is an artist and living with a mild control freak like Law is a bit of a challenge but as the two start orbiting around each other they realize they really do compliment each other.
I loved how flowers played a part of their story. It just made it vibrant and beautiful. Law was at time gruff and awkward but when you read about his soft spot for flowers you realize he’s just a big ol’ teddy bear in the inside.
This is a great book for the fall football season and a lovely 2nd book in the Rover Foxes Football series!
August 19, 2026
Oh man, I slowed myself down reading this one because I didn’t want it to be over. Beni is such a likable and down to earth character. Her style and funky vibes drew me into her world.
I loved the set up of Lawrence’s and her story from their first spark five years prior. It gave me a good, believable foundation for their attraction to one another despite their time as “enemies.”
And four year old Ana gave great levity to the story. Not only levity, but also plenty of situations to draw our two main characters out.
If you love clean sports romances starring lovable characters and excellent supporting characters—including ones from Leah’s previous books, this is a must read.
And I love being on Leah’s ARC team because I get the privilege of reading early and sitting back feeling excited for all of you to get to meet these lovely people, too. Except now I’m ready for Del’s story, but that wait will feel even longer now.
I loved the set up of Lawrence’s and her story from their first spark five years prior. It gave me a good, believable foundation for their attraction to one another despite their time as “enemies.”
And four year old Ana gave great levity to the story. Not only levity, but also plenty of situations to draw our two main characters out.
If you love clean sports romances starring lovable characters and excellent supporting characters—including ones from Leah’s previous books, this is a must read.
And I love being on Leah’s ARC team because I get the privilege of reading early and sitting back feeling excited for all of you to get to meet these lovely people, too. Except now I’m ready for Del’s story, but that wait will feel even longer now.
September 9, 2026
Second Down and Second Chances
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“ Lawrence Poe, tight end for the Green Bay River Foxes, is a type-A control freak who functions best when his house is clean, his spreadsheets are updated, and his protein shakes are precisely measured. Adding a four-year-old to his structured schedule isn’t going to be easy.”
Another great addition to the Leah Dobrinska universe. I just love to catch glimpses of the other characters from other books in her books it’s so fun. This book specifically was very wonderful and a good story line. I really enjoyed the contrast of the characters, a very much opposites attract situation. I do appreciate the love for our troops also in there. Can’t wait to read Del’s story in the future, he is one of my favorite characters in the bigger picture. Highly recommend this book and anything by Leah.
#bookstagram #booklover #bookaddict #arcread
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“ Lawrence Poe, tight end for the Green Bay River Foxes, is a type-A control freak who functions best when his house is clean, his spreadsheets are updated, and his protein shakes are precisely measured. Adding a four-year-old to his structured schedule isn’t going to be easy.”
Another great addition to the Leah Dobrinska universe. I just love to catch glimpses of the other characters from other books in her books it’s so fun. This book specifically was very wonderful and a good story line. I really enjoyed the contrast of the characters, a very much opposites attract situation. I do appreciate the love for our troops also in there. Can’t wait to read Del’s story in the future, he is one of my favorite characters in the bigger picture. Highly recommend this book and anything by Leah.
#bookstagram #booklover #bookaddict #arcread
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the second book in the River Fox series. You don’t need to read the first, but highly recommend reading it and Exes Don’t first to get the background on all the characters you’ll meet.
I adore Beni. She’s so lighthearted and carefree. She compliments Poe so nicely and helps him learn to get out of his head a little.
I love that Poe got to come out of his box in this book. His love of control makes sense for his character, but I loved watching him let go little by little.
I choose to believe that all football players act like the River Foxes and support every aspect of each other’s lives. They’re adorable. Speaking of which, I am so excited for Del to get his shot at love! He’s the best.
Thank you to the author for the early copy!
I adore Beni. She’s so lighthearted and carefree. She compliments Poe so nicely and helps him learn to get out of his head a little.
I love that Poe got to come out of his box in this book. His love of control makes sense for his character, but I loved watching him let go little by little.
I choose to believe that all football players act like the River Foxes and support every aspect of each other’s lives. They’re adorable. Speaking of which, I am so excited for Del to get his shot at love! He’s the best.
Thank you to the author for the early copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
4 Stars
Second Down and Second Chances is the second book in the River Foxes Football Series where Beni and Lawrence come together to temporarily care for Ana, Lawrence's niece. They have to work to overcome their history and past assumptions of each other. The addition of Ana to their dynamic worked well and helped aid their connection. It was also great to see the characters from the first book make an appearance in the story, and emphasizing the connection between Lawrence and his teammates. I am excited for the next book in the series with Del!
Roommates
Second Chance
Football MMC x Artist FMC
Best Friends Brother
Opposites Attract
This is a closed door book with kisses only.
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy.
4 Stars
Second Down and Second Chances is the second book in the River Foxes Football Series where Beni and Lawrence come together to temporarily care for Ana, Lawrence's niece. They have to work to overcome their history and past assumptions of each other. The addition of Ana to their dynamic worked well and helped aid their connection. It was also great to see the characters from the first book make an appearance in the story, and emphasizing the connection between Lawrence and his teammates. I am excited for the next book in the series with Del!
Roommates
Second Chance
Football MMC x Artist FMC
Best Friends Brother
Opposites Attract
This is a closed door book with kisses only.
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy.
August 26, 2026
Review of advance reader copy received from the author.
5 ⭐️
I am literally speechless….this book was absolutely perfect. I really loved Beni and Lawrence. They really complimented each other. Loved the way they helped each other get over their insecurities. I really loved meeting all of the other characters from previous books too. Lawrence’s neighbour Doris was also such a fun character and Ana was so cute. I really loved the way both Beni and Lawrence took care of her. I am really excited for the next book in this series.
I give my thanks to the author for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
5 ⭐️
I am literally speechless….this book was absolutely perfect. I really loved Beni and Lawrence. They really complimented each other. Loved the way they helped each other get over their insecurities. I really loved meeting all of the other characters from previous books too. Lawrence’s neighbour Doris was also such a fun character and Ana was so cute. I really loved the way both Beni and Lawrence took care of her. I am really excited for the next book in this series.
I give my thanks to the author for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 21, 2026
3.5/5 🌟
I love Leah’s books. But this one took me a while to get into. I’m not sure I clicked with either character {and that’s probably a me issue} but as someone who loved First Down and the chemistry between TJ & Lucy this one just fell a bit flat for me…
Doris stole the show!!
I really did love the rooftop garden scene + the concert
The drama with Jessica felt so high school/ immature to me. I was ready to shake Beni!!
🩷Best Friend’s Brother
🩷Sort of Enemies to Lovers…
🩷Second Chance
🩷Roommates
🩷Forced Proximity
I will absolutely be reading Del’s book though! Bring on that big softie!!
I love Leah’s books. But this one took me a while to get into. I’m not sure I clicked with either character {and that’s probably a me issue} but as someone who loved First Down and the chemistry between TJ & Lucy this one just fell a bit flat for me…
Doris stole the show!!
I really did love the rooftop garden scene + the concert
The drama with Jessica felt so high school/ immature to me. I was ready to shake Beni!!
🩷Best Friend’s Brother
🩷Sort of Enemies to Lovers…
🩷Second Chance
🩷Roommates
🩷Forced Proximity
I will absolutely be reading Del’s book though! Bring on that big softie!!
September 9, 2026
My first read by this author and I was not disappointed. I loved this book. Fun and flirty banter, enemies to more, opposites attract, forced proximity, secret crush on your best friend’s brother, and an adorable, smart and funny 5 year old niece, this book had it all. Beni and Lawerence’s journey to love was full of emotion as they both work through their past heartbreak and struggles with self worth.
September 23, 2026
Another Chance
Lawrence and Beni have years of history. Beni was and is best friends with Lawrence's sister and has years of crushing on Lawrence. They truly are opposite in most ways, but they're in forced proximity as they care for his four year old niece. This second chance is filled with interesting dialogs, "help" from his neighbor and teammates, and eventually, his own family. It's such a good book with realistic romance and a sweet ending.
Lawrence and Beni have years of history. Beni was and is best friends with Lawrence's sister and has years of crushing on Lawrence. They truly are opposite in most ways, but they're in forced proximity as they care for his four year old niece. This second chance is filled with interesting dialogs, "help" from his neighbor and teammates, and eventually, his own family. It's such a good book with realistic romance and a sweet ending.
September 29, 2026
Enemies to lovers and hit just right. First read by this author, thought it was wonderful. There was a lot of animosity between the MCs in the beginning and I wondered how it was going to be resolved, but the evolution of the story was great and believable, as was the romance — closed door but lots of chemistry and sizzle. Amazing enemies to lovers story. Loved it! Will be reading more of Leah’s books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lawrence and Beni go way back. She’s his little sister’s best friend and brings chaos to their lives. Lawrence likes his rigid, neat life. Then Beni comes crashing into his space when they both are recruited to care for his niece while his sister is deployed. Things do not start of smoothly and the two have to put their hurt feelings aside to work together and co-exist. Old feelings begin to stir and maybe there’s room for a second chance with the two.
What I loved:
🎨 Beni is a bright ball of joy. People are drawn to her.
🎨Ana is so sweet and honest
🎨Lawrence deep down is a big teddy bear and I love his grumpy side
🎨The teammates
🎨Doris is the cranky, nosy neighbor that everyone loves
🎨Mint gum
🎨The amusement park
🎨The messiness of life
This book!! Leah has such a way of writing humorous characters that deal with some tough things. If you’re a fan of sports romcoms, books that will make you laugh out loud and tear up, and characters that have depth then this is the book for you.
What I loved:
🎨 Beni is a bright ball of joy. People are drawn to her.
🎨Ana is so sweet and honest
🎨Lawrence deep down is a big teddy bear and I love his grumpy side
🎨The teammates
🎨Doris is the cranky, nosy neighbor that everyone loves
🎨Mint gum
🎨The amusement park
🎨The messiness of life
This book!! Leah has such a way of writing humorous characters that deal with some tough things. If you’re a fan of sports romcoms, books that will make you laugh out loud and tear up, and characters that have depth then this is the book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was FANTASTIC! I adored both main characters,as well as the side characters. Leah writes the sweetest, best books and this one did not disappoint. I'm a sucker for cameos of characters from other books , and there are multiple in this one. The guys group chat always has me laughing. The kisses are sizzling (no spice). Ana (4yo niece) is hilarious. There is mutual pinning. READ IT for some brother's best friend, 7yr age gap(26f/33m), always been you, childhood crush, second chance vibes.
September 19, 2026
Loved the art and football combo and always fun to travel back to Green Bay with the River Foxes and company! Can’t wait for the next one! Will have to go re-read a previous GB River Foxes book to hold me over 🤭🫠
August 10, 2026
Loved this story. Forced proximity. Grumpy/sunshine. 👏🏻 Leah Dobrinska rom-coms are my fave kind of rom-coms.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved it! Such a cute Grumpy × Sunshine story. Love the River Foxes!
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