Varsity Heartbreaker

Varsity #1

by Ginger Scott

Lucas Fuller is a lot of things. He’s the boy next door. He’s the first crush I ever had. He was my first kiss. He’s also the only person who has ever broken my heart. For two years, I’ve wondered what happened to the us I used to know. We were best friends, and then suddenly…we weren’t. I tried to run away from it. I even changed schools just to make the hurt disappear. But no matter how hard I tried to not think about Lucas, I just couldn’t stay away from the high school quarterback with perfect blue eyes and so many secrets. I’m back. We’re seniors now. We’ve grown—all of us. And Lucas Fuller might be different, but I’m different too. This is my time to take risks, to experience life and to fall in love for real. I want Lucas Fuller to be a part of my story, but I know for that to happen, I need to know the truth about our past.

Genres: Romance, High School, Sports, Young Adult, Sports Romance, New Adult, Friends To Lovers

322 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 28, 2020

About the author

Ginger Scott is a USA Today, Wall Street Journal and Amazon-bestselling author from Peoria, Arizona. She was also nominated for both the Goodreads Choice and Rita Awards. She is the author of several young and new adult romances, including bestsellers The Moon and Back, The Varsity Series, The Hard Count, This Is Falling and Wild Reckless.

A sucker for a good romance, Ginger's other passion is sports, and she often blends the two in her stories. She has been writing and editing for newspapers, magazines and blogs for a hella long time. She has told the stories of Olympians, politicians, actors, scientists, cowboys, criminals and towns. For more on her and her work, visit her website at http://gingerscottbooks.com.

When she's not writing, the odds are high that she's somewhere near a baseball diamond, either watching her son field pop flies like Bryce Harper or cheering on her favorite baseball team, the Arizona Diamondbacks. Ginger lives in Arizona and is married to her college sweetheart whom she met at ASU (fork 'em, Devils).

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Reviews

[mel ☽]

dnf 28%

i tried. i really tried but i caaaan't.

this has the same trope as Bully by Pen Douglas where h and H were childhood best friends but for some reason the H started to ignore her and become an asshole once high school starts. they're all seniors now and he's still an asshole to her.

it was going good but then (spoilers) h sees H in his backyard with OW where he has his hands inside her pants and was taking off her bra with his teeth and then a few moments later she heard him moan so we all know what the f they did. this is in chapter 6 and this OW bullies the h. and this is what the h has to say after seeing him with her enemy:

"I hate this fucking school.
And I hate my fucking neighbor.
I hate that I loved him so much even more."

oh my god bishhh. WHY?

also, she's a virgin. ughhh. i really hate when this trope is done where the H is a ho, sleeping with a lot of OW while claiming he has loved h this whole time and the h stays a virgin, pines, and loves the H while he's an asshole. i really hate that and that's what's happening here.

like, can i have a book where the H grovels for their dumbassery but then the h is like nah bishh it's time for YOU to taste your own medicine and shove their OM escapades on H's face? for once?? IS THAT TOO MUCH TO ASK??

also, i heard that his excuse was not that good and definitely makes his asshole and man ho behavior inexcusable and he doesn't break things off with the OW till like chapter 14 (yes, i spoiled myself). i would've liked this better if the H's pov was included here but nope.

maybe i'll read this later if im in the mood to torture myself but im so done with the double standard so yeah no thank you. byeeee

[Becky · Rating 1 out of 5]

NOT SAFE and also NOT A ROMANCE


-He fucks a girls that hates her named Ava
“She’s just this mistake I make sometimes.”
It’s not a one time thing, they have a thing going on for a while

They are neighbors and she saw him with girls from his window because he leaves the lights on
“He also likes to leave the lights on when he brings girls upstairs late at night. I’ve seen too much from this front seat of the tireless car that will never run. But the burn on my cheeks from the very public words said by his on-again, off-again girlfriend in front of virtually everyone in our senior class is too hot for me to care about any of that.”
~that on and off girlfriend is the girl that hates her (Ava)

-She witness her about to fuck this girl (Ava) with his hand inside her jeans and his mouth peeling off her bra, hears him moaning and taking the girls jeans off so she decides to leave but makes a noise by accident. Next morning she finds the ow underwear in front of her house bc ow puts there and he arrives at school together with the ow
That happens outside of his house and she lives next door and they are on a trampolim with very loud music so obviously doesn’t give a shit about her
“(...) I slowly back away, just as Ava’s hips rise and her hands help Lucas slide down her jeans.”

-She is a virgin and a pathetic girl
-He has to stay away from her because of his family but that does not excuse his behavior. He is rude as fuck, ignored her during the first two years and now they are at the same school again and he is mean which makes no fucking sense

The pathetic heroine begs for a date i cringe so fucking hard she also is the one who says I love you first and he takes a few chapters to say it back so fucking cute I almost throw up 🤢

THE BIGGEST BETRAYAL
-He tells Ava the reason why he doesn’t talk to heroine anymore but he doesn’t say it to the heroine who was his best friend aka the girl he loves. I wouldn’t give a shit if he just stay away from the h and then redeems himself for not telling the reason but being an asshole, fucking a bunch of girls, fucking her enemy and telling the enemy the reason??? FUCK YOU, CHEATER
- He tells her the enemy is just a mistake he makes sometimes, well he fucks that mistake, takes her to parties, to lunch dates and makes confessions. HE TREATS OW WAYYYY BETTER



They are apart for two years but he says he never stoped loving her but that didn’t stop him from fucking others while she was pinning after him being pathetic

The plot is too weak, it doesn’t even come close to justify any of his actions and the fact that he was with her enemy and act like it’s just a mistake makes him a weak as hell hero

He doesn’t grovel he doesn’t even apologize properly and the ow issue is not even addressed. She punches and spit on h’s face and that’s it nothing fucking happens to her

Why the fuck she was a virgin? Double standards are not romantic author stop that shit

I never get it when author makes the hero being an asshole to the heroine when they have to be apart from each other because whatever reason and he is not celibate but she is. Makes no fucking sense, he didn’t want to beal apart bc he loved her so why the fuck he is with ow? The worst part is that she doesn’t know why he shuts her down but out of the blue he shuts her down and treats her like garbage, so why the fuck she didn’t try to move on? Makes much more sense for the heroine to fuck others (bc hellooooo he is rude to her out of nowhere) while he is celibate pinning for her from afar. Sexist garbage

I don’t get it because he confess about never stoping loving her and he only needs to be away from her but during this time he loves her so much he fucks girls where he knows she can see and even fucks her enemy, he said something about her finding a boyfriend so she can leave him alone. This is not love for me, because there is no reason at all he would do that to her, he could stay away without doing that shit. She on the other hand has every fucking reason to fuck her way to cute school boys but the stupid girl never does it

He doesn’t have any reason to hate her, only to stay away so this book can not be consider a romance because that guy is anything but romantic, he is a disgusting pig. If he loved her he wouldn’t act angry when she gives the ow underwear to him, nor would him continue to be with that girl at a friends reunion (heroine says her face looks like they were making out) and even go out with her to eat (heroine is having lunch with a friend when he arrives with ow)

He loves her but fuck others and they had already kissed once so even though she had a boyfriend when he shuts her down she remains a virgin and she is the one that doesn’t know why he is being a jerk to her so she had every right to date even while loving him. He doesn’t have that right when it comes to what romances mean to me so yeah he is a disgusting disloyal asshole with no redemption.


This book isn’t worthy our time it’s a awful I fucking hate and I am so frustrated because I could have spent my time reading and actual good story because here everything is lacking. H is a piece of shit. h is a doormat. The parents are stupid adults that can’t deal with their own shit.

[Dawn · Rating 1 out of 5]

Other people have already said it so I will keep it to a minimum. Stories where the girl waits for the guy while he screws everyone in front of her are not romantic. When you literally show us (and the heroine) him screwing another girl, and then later the heroine loses her virginity to him, you have already failed. You’ve created a weak heroine. No one is going to respect her or read more about her. No he doesn’t have to be a virgin, but don’t show us him screwing other people. You lose us. Choosing another girl (who treats the heroine like crap) is also a bad idea. I’m not sure if you are aware of this, but even if you write the guy as a super alpha etc he loses that status as soon as he lets another girl have his balls. Not standing up for the heroine and letting another girl think she’s is important enough that her will chose her, also makes him lose his status. So you wrote this book trying to have a that type and it’s a complete failure. Read some of the highly successful stories and see what they did. Usually they leave other women out of it (unless it’s a pretend situation or before the story started) they don’t let other people do anything to the heroine, and they don’t screw other people during the story. If they do there is usually a good reason, and they still put the other woman in her place. So long story short. You failed.

[Melluvsbooks · Rating 2 out of 5]

Once again the manwhore/virgin trope done in a way that even the biggest fangirl can't like it. 🫤

I'm in the minority. I actually have ZERO problems with a 17 year old girl NOT sleeping around in high school, even though the boy she crushes on is nailing anyone that moves (except for the h, of course 😬). She is SEVENTEEN, not 30. Teenage girls have unrequited crushes all the time. It’s ok to choose to not sleep with random guys you aren’t interested in. I actually think it is MORE of a badass choice to NOT allow the actions of a jackass boy goad you into making shitty decisions you’re likely to regret. Let him make crappy decisions he’ll feel like shit about later. 🤷🏼‍♀️ I'm cool with a heroine who doesn't get down in the muck with him. 😬 🫣 There. I said it. 🤷🏼‍♀️

No, my problem doesn't lie there. I've read this trope a million billion times... and I've loved it... but this author did not get it right.

- if you're going to show the hero sleeping around - LIKE ON PAGE DETAILS - then when the H and h finally get to the deed, you better make it SPECIAL - this book didn't get us there.

- if you're going to make the heroine get a front row seat to the H sexxing with OW, then you better have the h asking questions and not just opening her legs at his first smirk

- if you’re gonna make the H a raging jackass - he better GROVEL. And no, giving her his letterman jacket after he takes her v-card isn’t a grovel… especially when the Evil OW (NOT his girlfriend, of course 🤔) was running around wearing his jersey for half the book. 😒

- If you're gonna have an EVIL CACKLING WHORE OW, then she better be put in her place by the hero, BRUTALLY - He absolutely can't stand around wringing his hands when that whore bullies his girl... even if they aren't done hating each other yet. He better be fixing it behind the scenes. He needs to take full responsibility for that crap... and he better make it known in no uncertain terms what he really thinks of her and how much he loves the h. You know what’s not good enough? The OW being left to accept her crown of Homecoming Queen without her king (the H)… this bitch made the heroine miserable. She should suffer publicly and at the hero’s hands, not receive a freaking crown. 💅🏻

- And if the H is gonna sleep with the h's nemesis... he better not betray her emotionally. Meaning, he better NOT share deep dark secrets about the h with the girl he claims was "just a mistake I make sometimes" 😒

- if the h is gonna have to feel jealousy and angst - I want the hero to lose his shit about OM too - I want him to feel the pain also - it would have been nice if the hero hadn't assumed the h was still a virgin since he was sleeping around - they never even talk about it. I want this jackass to SWEAT.

- AND if we're gonna get a big angst fest, I need more than just a HFN ending. Womp-womp


Bottom Line? This book was super annoying, but I finished. ⭐️⭐️




⚠️SAFETY SQUAD SPOILERS⚠️

- no cheating or sharing between the MCs- once the h and H kiss, they don't touch anyone else - there is cheating going on with the adults in the story

- tons of OW drama - the H is in a physical relationship with the h's bully - the h witnesses them almost having sex - she also sees him with other girls because she lives next door and can see into his window - the main OW is never really confronted, even tho she attacks the heroine physically

- OM drama - one of the H's friends takes a liking to the heroine and makes the H mildly jealous

- condoms used - it is implied he always uses them - but no specific conversation ever takes place about sexual safety, even tho it was badly needed in this situation

- no dubcon/noncon

- HFN - they are together at the end and about to head to separate colleges. She seems very philosophical about their future, knowing that there's a possibility they will just be each other's first loves and maybe not their forever. This would have hit better if the hero had been more intense about her... but I wasn't feeling it.

[NMmomof4 · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 Stars

Overall Opinion: Dang. I really struggled with this one. I didn’t like the h and it is told in only her POV. She was a doormat when it came to the H and pretty entitled and rude a lot of the times to everyone else. The H was a mystery throughout because we don’t get his POV and what I did get I didn’t like much either. He was a jerk, super cold, and then does a 180 and cares?! Maybe I’d get it if I understood his reasoning, but after finding out the big secret I still don’t get it...why the cruelty? And barely any grovel?! Yeah, no! The OW drama was OTT in an eye roll inducing way and the abrupt/no closure ending was the crappy cherry on top!

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is June and Lucas’s story. June and Lucas grew up as best friends and then more after sharing their first kiss, but 2 years ago everything drastically changed and Lucas became a tormentor enough that June moved schools. June, however, has to return for their senior year and her first class is with Lucas and they share mutual friends. June just wants to understand the drastic change in Lucas but gets shot down many times at even establishing a friendship. There is some family drama, some OW drama, and a few sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This was told in June’s POV. I think it might’ve made me like the H more if I understood his POV...maybe...

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No, but they cared about each other when this starts (h’s inner dialogue says she loves him right away).

H (Hero) rating: 2 stars. Lucas. I struggled with him. He didn’t make sense to me with his cruelty then 180.

h (heroine) rating: 2 stars. June. I struggled with her. She was a grumpy doormat IMHO.

Sadness level: Low/moderate, but no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes The H pushes away for most of the book and the h pursues the relationship (NOT my favorite)

Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and a few scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. It did feel like the scenes at the very end were filler type scenes and unnecessary to the storyline tbh.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes The H is with the h’s “arch enemy” as a f-buddy type relationship but he claims she was a “mistake” even though he taunts the h with it 🙄. The OW assaults the h and spray paints her garage.

Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes The h watches the H about to have sex with OW. The h also makes inner dialogue comments about him leaving his curtains open for her to see him with OW in the past (but scenes are not on page)

Cheating: Not technically they weren’t “together” when he was with OW

Separation: Not technically once they get back together they stay together but they had a falling out 2 years (?) prior to the beginning of the story

Possible Triggers: Yes Cheating parents (on and off page), OW drama (see above), and the h was a virgin (on page)

Closure: This ended abruptly with what I would call a HFN ending. Not nearly enough closure for me! And! Who’s to say he won’t go off to college away from her and make more “mistakes” by sleeping with other girls?!

Safety: This one is probably either Safe With Exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.

- Does Not (technically) have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with the H and OW
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does Not (technically) have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse
- Does Not have a HEA ending

[Lauren ♡ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 STARS ⋆

This is my second read from Ginger Scott. Since I read Bully by Penelope Douglas, I am a sucker for childhood friends that turn into enemies then lovers. Therefore, when I read the blurb, it gave me the vibes of being that trope, so I picked it up. Varsity Heartbreaker is the first book in the Varsity series and focuses on Lucas (main hero) and June (main heroine). I really wanted to love this book but it was just... meh.

This book includes. . .

⇒ childhood friends-to-enemies-to lovers
⇒ virgin heroine trope
⇒ popular jock + dorky sweet nerd pairing
⇒ weak heroine and alphahole main hero

FINAL VERDICT ON BOOK

SONG: Julia Michaels - Issues

June, baby, you got issues to put up with how Lucas treated you and romanticizing him so much.

Main Issue #1: Almost identical plot to Bully by Penelope Douglas.

⚫ Lucas = Jared Trent
⚫ Tory D'Angelo (Luca's best friend) = Madoc Caruthers
⚫ Ava = Piper

I was looking for a book a that was similar trope not... a watered down version of Bully. Like Bully, the H and h were childhood friends and one day the H stops talking to the h, which the h had no idea why. Ava who is on and off with Lucas reminded me of Piper from Bully. Salvatore 'Tory' who is Lucas best friend reminded me of Madoc as both characters were considered to be the clowns and one for a good time/laugh. Basically, the plot and elements of the story are very similar to Bully.

Main Issue #2: Over-romanticizing the main hero

I felt that the h romanticized too much of Luca's behavior and was pretty accepting of how he treated her in the past. He would treat her like shit then in the next breath she is saying how great he looks and that deep down he is the same that she once knew.

Main Issue #3: Luca's shitty behavior

June had a CONCUSSION due to a fall. Lucas was helpful when moving her away from the area where she fell and taking her to the doctor after the fall. However, his behavior after it infuriated me. Right before they reach their houses, Lucas abruptly stopped his truck and yelled at her to get out and walk the rest of the way due to the fact he didn't want his mom to see her with him.



Lastly, later on we find out due to home drama that this was why Lucas couldn't be with her but still she had a god damn concussion.

ANYWAYS ~ Hopefully, the rest of the series will be better!
↳ Edit (4/2021): Book #2 was only slightly better. So far would I recommend this series? no

Varsity series

#1 Varsity Heartbreaker ⤑ 2 stars
#2 Varsity Tiebreaker ⤑ 2.5 stars
#3 Varsity Rulebreaker ⤑ TBR

[Bookgasms Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am powerless against a good YA sports romance.

And Ginger Scott writes a dang good YA sports romance.

So this was a no brainer, right? I went in expecting the sort of authentic angsty deliciousness I've come to expect from this author and I was not one single bit disappointed.

Real talk: I spent a little more than half this book trying to figure out if I even liked most of these people.

Ms. Scott spares no punches. This is a true enemies-to-lovers story and both Lucas and June behaved in ways that were - well, the way enemies treat each other I suppose. They were written true to their ages, but it was difficult for me to read sometimes (mostly because I'm a weenie about the mean boys). There were moments where I felt like the push far outweighed the pull in their push/pull dynamic - and I'm not always very patient with that. So, yes - it took me a long time to figure out whose team I was on. Or if I was going to wind up on any team at all.

But it was also a compelling read. I couldn't put it down. The chemistry was there even though it drove me a little bit crazy. I kept reading - a little bit on the fence and a little bit low key obsessed with these characters.

And then the most incredible thing happened: they evolved. They grew. They came alive, they lit up my Kindle, and I was crazy about them.

Y'all - the feels. Once the walls came crumbling down I was overwhelmed by the sweet tenderness, the sensual sexiness, and the pure honesty of Lucas and June's feelings for each other. Their story wasn't easy. Their characters weren't always easy. But the payoff was in all the ways they lit up my heart and it was so completely worth it.

This is a romance - and a sweet, sexy, rewarding one at that. But there are love stories intertwined within it that were so much bigger than the romance. It was also a family story. In fact, June's mom might be the real MVP of this whole book. I adored her in all her alpha mama bear glory and I fell so in love with her and June's little family unit. With their open communication. With their patience and grace and dedication to each other. I loved everything about their relationship.

I also loved the friendships that formed or strengthened over the course of the story. These teenagers are written so authentically - I adored every awkward interaction and show of solidarity. I loved the bonds that forged and the strength they lent each other. And most of all, I can't wait to get to know most of these secondary characters better in future stories.

So really, in the end, there are several little love stories in this book, and they're all pretty special. I'm so glad I took this journey with June and Lucas. This book was a mix of heart-wrenching and heartwarming. A slow evolution from heartbreak warfare to heart-stealing adorableness. It's angsty and twisty and utterly unputdownable. I'm so excited for the stories to come. These characters - every last one of them - completely won me over and I'm all-in for them! ~ Shelly, 4 Stars

[Nicole*bookaholic* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omgeeee!!! I can not even begin to tell you how much I loved this book.
I believe June and I would have been great friends.
Lucas, oh, he is so swoon worthy.
Abby is such a great friend.
Tory, well he might have been my favorite character. I loved how he and June became friends.
I was given an arc copy for my honest review.
I highly recommend this book. Ginger Scott did a fabulous job with it.

[Elle G. Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Release Date: May 28, 2020
Actual Rating: 4 stars

Young Adult | High School Romance | Neighbors

I’ve been craving a young adult romance and reading Varsity Heartbreaker by Ginger Scott really hit the spot! Varsity Heartbreaker is a young adult, high school romance. There are some enemy vibes, but nothing close to bullying. There is also a second chance, childhood friends to lover’s vibe, but we never really “get this” until closer to the end when the reason for their parting is revealed. This is also a sweet, somewhat sexual (only a few small parts) romance and would be perfect for both adults and upper young adult readers.

June and Lucas were childhood friends, but two years ago he stopped talking to her and ignored her every time she tried to find out why he started hating her. So, she left school for a year and when to a local Montessori school. Unfortunately, after her mother’s divorce she couldn’t afford to go there any longer and had to go back to school where Lucas and some bullies from her past are. It’s not an easy transition for June, and things are pretty touch and go for a while but befriending the right people (I loved Tory) has helped her in ways she never expected. In this budding friendship, things between her and Lucas start to spark up again. But when she finds out WHY he ghosted her, it just may change everything…

I loved this “twist” as to why Lucas ignored her, even though the lack of communication brought them both from so much heartbreak. I guess it wouldn’t be a story without it though, right? June and Lucas are great characters. I think many readers will love them even if they can’t connect with them on deep levels because they are so young. You may relate to some of their issues though which is why I think both older teens and adults can enjoy this one.

So, would I recommend it? YES! I can’t wait for Tory and Addie’s story next. Their bickering in the background really sets us up for their story and I can’t wait to see how these two come together!

[Carmen Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first new adult book I've read in a while that was set in high school. I've been reading a lot of college romance recently and this one being set in high school really threw me. I feel so old, I have kids this age.

That said Ginger's writing made me get over that pretty quickly and just focus on the feeling of new love. Because really it doesn't matter your age when everything is new the feelings are pretty similar. There's the nerves and the second guessing of what the other person is feeling and thinking.

For June that was even more intense since she had loved Lucas her entire life. He had been her best friend until her world fell apart and she lost him but didn't know why. She had so many unresolved questions only he could answer and he was being such a massive dick. There were a lot of times i didn't understand how she still cared so much about him when he went out of his way to avoid her.

Since this was only told in June's point of view I really struggled with where Lucas was coming from. And I have to be honest I'm not entirely sure what the major catalyst for him to change his behaviour towards June was. One minute he was avoiding her and acting as though she had peed in his cheerios and the next he was this awesome boyfriend.

But then the big reveal happened and it made more sense. It still made me want to smack him in the head but I had to remember his age and I understood his thought process a little better. Although I personally wanted a lot more from the ending. Idk maybe like another books worth of Lucas being a doting, adoring boyfriend where they live happily ever after. I'm hoping that the next book will have a little more of June and Lucas. Either way I loved Tory and Abby as secondary characters and I'm dying to get their story.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars!
I’m a sucker for anything GS writes. I love her books and have read almost everything she’s ever published. So it’s no surprise that I gobbled this one up and enjoyed it.

I’m so happy we are getting more of these boys and girls in the future. Excited for Tory next:))

[Elizabeth]

OW Drama
Heroine is virgin
She sees him having sex with a girl
Typical high school crap

I have KU so I skimmed it 🙄

[Rachael*Caribbean*girl*bibliophile]

Spoilers ahead


Yet another kind hearted hero who stays away from the h for her own good but still cares about her YET he's somehow able to fuck many OW. In this case he does it right next door to the h who, as his neighbor, gets a front seat to his fuckboy behavior. She is of course a virgin who desperately wants him.

If I'm in the mood to throw up some more I'll get to the end 😒

[Sentranced Jem · Rating 2 out of 5]

never thought I'd see the day when I would not like a book written by Ginger Scott but here I am.

To be real here, I almost DNF-ed the book. I wanted to but a part of me also wanted to like Varsity Heartbreaker. And I've always enjoyed Scott's books so read continued on even when I wanted to stop reading and read another book.

I would also like to point out that it's been a while since I read this book and I have absolutely no recollection of the storyline...perhaps a vague idea maybe? but that would require me to read a few lines to recollect and I am not doing that.

I have read almost ALL the books written by Ginger Scott and I enjoyed those more than this book.
However, I would recommend the other books..

[Rhonda Ziglar · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 VARSITY HEARTBREAKER STARS!! Lucas and June takes us back to high school....with all the spirit, drama, first loves and high school sports. I absolutely loved everything about this book, it is a quick enjoyable book. If you love high school drama this is your book, download it now.

[Michelle Claypot_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books like this are why Ginger Scott was my first unicorn author. The first one I binge read all her words & eagerly await every new release without needing a blurb.

This is a fresh take on the YA love story theme. June is such a real character you’re going to feel like she was your high school BFF. And Lucas, well he’s all the good and bad parts of a YA Romance hero rolled into one. Swoon Factor 100!

The story is smart. The pace is fantastic and the dialogue was so genuine my inner teenage girl was smiling & crying along with them.

If you’re looking for a YA Story with substance and a great big dash of heat then this is for you. Definitely recommend.

I received an arc of this book.

[Syndi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I tried to like Varsity Heartbreaker. The name Ginger Scoyy usually guarantee the quality of the story. Instead... I got really heart broken.

My main issue is the characters. Since the story is told from June' POV, it is impossible to understand Lucas' POV.
I do not like June. She is weak and spoil heroine. She has no back bone when it comes to Lucas.

Again, I am disappointed.

2 stars

[Ilaria 🌸 · Rating 1 out of 5]

She is a doormat
He needs professional help cause his assholness is epic
This is not what I was expecting from this author this is not Nate and Rowe writer a big No thank you

[Karen Mc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my sweet sigh! I just love snuggling up to a good love story. Ginger Scott crafts a compassionate and compelling YA romance in Varsity Heartbreaker, the kind that bleeds angst and intensity, making you feel every heartwarming and heartbreaking moment where you connect with the characters so deeply that their journey becomes yours too. I knew right away that Varsity Heartbreaker was special. This tale explodes in emotion and depth where I sank inside and felt these characters too.

He is my weakness, but he used to be my strength.

Varsity Heartbreaker is a fusion of friends, enemies, and lovers that is messy but so moving. Told through the perspective of a beautiful and bold teen girl, June, this novel takes a deep dive into friendship, family dynamics, and forever love—uncovering secrets, shattering perceptions, and setting the truth free. The football star hero, Lucas, is gorgeous and strong, a pillar of strength, who, like June, balances so much on his shoulders. This hero and heroine were created for each other, forged by fate, stunning soulmates who are strongest together.

”There are a few tiny moments when I see you. When I really see you.”

This book brings battles to life and slays demons, the kind of heartfelt creation that takes and leave pieces of the heart and soul inside the story. Varsity Heartbreaker hugged my heart and sparked my soul. This tale had my heart the whole time reading. I was moved from the very first page as I took a trip through the teenage mind with all the love-hate vibes—feeling the fear, fortitude, awkwardness, angst, and everlasting love that resonate through this spellbinding and stunning story. I felt this hero and heroines’ story as if it were my own. I felt every word. I felt everything. I could not stop feeling this heart-touching tale, one I read with tears in my eyes and love in my heart.

”You were never a mistake.”

💋💋💋💋💋 fierce and forever kisses

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[Anne OK · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too many areas of this number just didn't jive. The plot wasn't that entertaining nor believable. I didn't like the super star ball player -- and the heroine was a weak and sniveling child. I was really disappointed especially after all the hype this one was prefaced by. Lots better books by this author.

[Kayla Brunson · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't even know where to begin with this one. This was an enemies to lovers/second chance romance. This was full of drama and such a struggle to get through. Seriously are all of this authors stories this dramatic?

The main character June made me quite irritated. I get that she and Logan were friends quite a while ago and she loved him. However, I kept wondering how many times she was going to let him treat her like trash. Quite a lot sadly. I wanted her to realize that she deserved better. Especially to be treated better!

While I can understand the reason that Lucas stopped talking to June, he could have gone about it a different way. TBH, he could have gone about everything differently. He was mean, rude, and done some pretty messed up stuff. I couldn't see his appeal or what made him special enough for June to keep coming back.

It's hard to talk about the romance between June and Lucas. Mainly because it really wasn't too great. I never felt the chemistry between them. It was like I was supposed to ship them together because the author told me to. But if I'm being honest, I think she would be a better fit with Tory. *shrugs*

While I'm on a roll, why was there so much girl hate here?! The judgy comments and over the top actions were really too much.

As you can see, I had so many issues with this book. It took a lot for me to not DNF it and I don't recommend it. There are better books out there.

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[TeriLyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Varsity Heartbreaker generously provided in exchange for an honest review.**

5 "And nothing is the same..." Stars

Ginger Scott comes through with another amazing, new adult novel. From friends to enemies to lovers this story takes you through a gambit of emotions, loyalty, friendship and betrayal. The story is packed with action and passion with Scott's acute sensibility to the vulnerabilities and nuances of young adults. It's nostalgic to read a book like this, to remember fondly this time period in your life and reflect on the emotionally turbulent intricacies.

The two main characters here are fighting demons, their own and each others. They take on a lot for the young shoulders and feel a heady sense of respect, need, and loyalty. The secondary characters are equally as important and lend a certain camaraderie to the ongoing, engaging plot. I found myself completely indulged by the story and what will happen next. Ginger Scott writes with a certain flair that always leaves you satisfied and knowing greater things are on the horizon for her characters. If you love NA romance you'll love this.

[Shelee at Book Reader Chronicles · Rating 5 out of 5]

6 STARS | TOP REC

Varsity Heartbreaker was a scintillating, messy, and wildly angsty ride. Scott perfectly portrayed a broken friendship with a honed skill and added the right amount of tension, making it impossible not to feel every dig and barb and traitorous thump of attraction. That paired with a fantastic crew of characters made this a prime example of how the friends-to-enemies-to-lovers trope should be done.

Time and effort was spent on giving depth and characterization to all characters and it showed in every little beat and nuance of this story. June was a bright enigma and I grew to love her instantly for the way she felt deeply, but thought with her heart—never wanting pity, yet always searching for connection. The fire that grew in her as the story took shape around her was incredibly relatable, and she became the kind of heroine readers search for for her unique mixture of defiance and tenderness. Every time she was around Lucas, the clash of emotions swirling inside of her and around them was palpable, painful, and vivid. Their connection was simply effortless, and it hung between them in every look, every word, and in all the things that weren't said. I felt this book; felt it in the stomach dips, the racing of my heart, and the heat of my skin. And it was so worth the riot of emotions to watch these two characters find their way back to one another.

Scott created a connection without having to flash back to the past and yet all of the closeness and shorthand—which can be so hard to achieve—was present without it. I couldn't have asked for this to be written any better or different because it was absolutely perfect as it was. I've thought about it every day since finishing and,  because of how well written the secondary characters were, I cannot wait for the next set of characters to get their story. Varsity Heartbreaker is a story not to miss and I hope everyone falls down the rabbit hole with me.

**Received an early copy; this had no bearing on my opinions**

[Wil Loves Books! · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ginger Scott is a favorite of mine. Her stories are just great. She also can do High School stories like no other and Varsity Heartbreaker is no exception. I really loved this one. I do think I have a preference for dual POV when it comes to NA stories. I always love to know what the hero is thinking and overall I found Lucas to be hard to read. The audiobook narration is excellent though. If you're looking for a sweet HS romance with great writing and characters, then this is the book for you!

[Kayla Mason · Rating 3 out of 5]

Girl couldn’t wait to give up her virginity. He’s an ass for about 2 years and after one day she’s ALL in.

I loved the beginning up until the sex scene. It just felt to rushed and it killed the book for me.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Original review: A Novel Glimpse

Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.

One of the things I have always loved about Ginger Scott's writing is that she evolves with each book. It's like she's five different writers in one body. To me, that proves how talented a writer she is. I feel like each new release has gotten edgier and spotlighted something different but just as important as the last. While I love that, I have to admit that I have missed her mature YA/NA contemporary sports romances. There's just something so pure and fun about them. Needless to say, I was SUPER excited when I learned she was returning to that type of romance novel with Varsity Heartbreaker.

Varsity Heartbreaker was exactly what I needed during this crazy time. It got me out of a major book funk. I loved the whole vibe it had going on. It was slightly angsty, but not overly so. June dreads going back to her old high school where her ex childhood best friend and next door neighbor, Lucas, reigns. Her new best friend Abby pushes her to broaden her horizons, which puts her in the same orbit as Lucas. The plot was messy in the best way with a slight mysterious feel wrapped around what went down to make Lucas abandon his friendship with June.

I loved June. Her teenage embarrassment, frustration, and crush were spot on. I usually like my romance novels to have dual points of view, but this one was perfect with just her. I loved being in her mind and experiencing her figuring things out.

Lucas was frustrating to say the least. For much of the book I just wanted to shout at him to give it up and admit to what was going on with him. I'm not complaining about that, though. The secrecy around his character was fabulous for the storyline and June.

With everything going on with June and her feelings toward Lucas, I was surprised that there was actually something (I dare say) even better than their romance going on in this book. I think I might have loved the friendships even more. June and Abby's was fun. Lucas and Tory's seemed like a great bromance. The one that really got me, though, was June and Tory's friendship. That one made me smile so hard and laugh quite a bit. If I was SUPER excited about Varsity Heartbreaker, I don't even know how to describe how excited I am for Tory's book. Thank goodness it's coming up next!

As you can tell, I loved Varsity Heartbreaker. I would bet on the fact that it's going to be a hit with fans of Wild Reckless, Waiting on the Sidelines, and This is Falling. Or with anyone who loves a mature YA sports romance. It was a great read, one I didn't want to be over. If I was a cheerleader, I would do some sort of cheer here for Ginger Scott and what a winner she and this book are.

[ItaPixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

June and Lucas are neighbours, they were also the best of friends until the day things got complicated and Lucas completely stopped talking to her or even so much so greeting her.
Now,after two years, June got back at the same high school Lucas attends and for them there is no way to avoid confrontation...will they find a way to go back to each other or will their relationship be doomed forever?

This was a very good young adult read.
June and Lucas journey reminded me of myself at that age, even if some behaviours don't look like something I share now at 34 years old, being honest in my teens I was willing to wait and to love a guy even if he doesn't feel the same way for me.

I think Ginger Scott wrote a solid story with relatable characters that perfectly show the reader their age issues and heartbreaks.
I can't wait to read next novel in the series because reading this book I fell for the "Douche"...none other than Tory D'Angelo.

Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

[Rosalie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was actually a good story that had a great h, a good story, but a 2 start in effort for going to full way to make it a great book.

This story is about Lucas and June. They used to be friends as kids but then randomly Lucas ignored her. She went to a private school for 2 years but when her mom couldn’t afford it anymore, she went back to the high school where Lucas is.

They start playing a pull and push game and I’m proud of June for standing up to herself.

Unfortunately, this book had a good premise. But the romance aspect was not well done. The author should’ve taken time to build the romance between June and Lucas once they reunite. I wanted to see him take her out on a date. I wanted to see him OVERCOME with love for June. However since we got June’s POV and the fact she was loyal and now with OM during their separation and everything, I knew she loved him.

But I couldn’t connect with Lucas and therefore didn’t see his undying love for her. We were told “I know he never looked at Ava that way” or when he says I love you but I never felt it and he never said it. June’s POV would tell us he did lol

Sex shouldn’t have happened that quick. They needed to have a long conversation before going there about their past - even when he told her the truth I would’ve been angry at him for not telling me sooner and preventing us from being together. I wanted her to say “you could’ve told em and we could’ve been together instead you didn’t and I had to see you with Ava and other women.”

Now it wasn’t a safe book. She messed around in her 2 years away but was a virgin and he was with OW including Ava. Not like he’s a manwhore that wasn’t implied in my opinion. But they needed to discuss Ava more. It didn’t bother me THAT much because they were just friends before but a good time needed to be spent on them getting back on track for me as a reader to get over the fact he was with OW. And btw Ava wasn’t her bully or so, but she liked Lucas when they started hooking up and cause Lucas was always June she disliked her.

I needed them to have a convo where she gives him a bit of grief for that. She should’ve asked “did u have feelings for her?” And I wanted him to say “I haven’t liked anyone but you”.

It’s like once they reunite, there’s no need to talk about the past or the pain or anything (even though we had to read about June’s pain) and they were good. Nothing needed to be discussed. Even when she finds out that Lucas told Ava about her mom, a simple “that’s horrible Lucas you shouldn’t have told someone who hates me that information.” I didn’t want her to kick him out but talk about it !!!!

Even when they find out that it was all a lie and Lucas and his mom were played, they should’ve talked about it and should’ve said I can’t believe we didn’t talk for a lie etc.

I guess cause I never got the answers from Lucas cause our h never asks, I never felt the overwhelming LOVE between the MCs. It was a sweet book thus the 2 stars but I felt it lacked depth, it didn’t address things which should’ve been addressed. Lucas and June needed an important romance plot to get them back on track. It was so easy like ok we’re together. No romance needed to get there.

We needed TIME and dates and romance and Lucas being good to get over the ignoring her / her seeing him with OW thing.

I also witb she wasn’t a virgin. In the end, I didn’t feel much in regards to this romance. Had a good plot and the start of something great but fell through due to lack of romantic development and again, I don’t even know if Lucas suffered or missed her during those years apart because they don’t talk about it.

Did he miss her?
Did he enjoy being with OW?
Was he sad at losing her?
Did he like Ava at any point?

We don’t know cause they don’t talk about it ... he could’ve been having a good time.

Anyways again, lack of depth didn’t allow me to enjoy it. Side characters were good but maybe this author just isn’t for me it’s a first book I read of hers. I don’t like reading stories about average love

[Books, Coffee & Passion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Varsity Heartbreaker is one of the most compelling mature YA sports romances I've read in the last decade. An angsty roller coaster best friends to enemies to lovers romance. 
This story flowed so perfectly and I was hooked almost instantly. June and Lucas grew up together, they're next door neighbors and they were best friends for most of their lives until suddenly they weren't. June changed schools because she was hurt after their fallout, let's call it that for the sake of not revealing too much, but the story begins when she returns to her old high school for her senior year. Her old high school that is Lucas high school too.
I really, really liked June. She wasn't the same girl that used to be Lucas best friend, she changed and that was shown during the first pages of the book. She was reacting differently to certain situations, she didn't back down, she was being brave and fierce, she stopped caring about what people though about her and I loved every moment she pushed back. There was an interesting aspect in the story and I think Ginger Scott was a master at this: when June changed her attitude, it clearly influenced people's behavior toward her. I loved how that was clearly shown in this story. Of course it doesn't work all the time, because some people are just too petty (yes, I'm referring to a specific character that shall not be named) but it does work with most people. 
Lucas was a challenge to like, I'll admit it. I was angry with him through most of the book, but there were a few glimpses of the real Lucas that made me ache for so much more! I really couldn't understand what was going on with him, but the mystery was definitely necessary to the plot. Even though I had trouble understating his interactions with June, things progressed in a interesting way and when a huge secret was revealed... everything clicked and I ended up loving him. SO. MUCH.
The secondary characters were amazing too! I loved Abby, June's best friend, but my favorite secondary character was definitely Tory. I absolutely loved Tory, Lucas' best friend. He's the most hilarious character ever and seeing his friendship with June grow was one of my favorite parts of this story. I'm so excited about getting Tory's story next!
Varsity Heartbreak is a must read YA mature sports romance that stole my heart. Ginger Scott is an amazing writer and I need to read more of her books. Highly recommended.

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

A young adult story, brimming with angst, about a teen struggling to reconnect with an old friend.

For years, June Mabee had one BFF, her neighbor, Lucas Fuller. Then one day he wasn't. Cut off with no explanation. And while that ending friendship hurt, June was able to deal, going to a separate school. However, with finances tight, she is forced to return to the high school with her now enemy as a daily classmate.

I wasn't sure what to think of our heroine. She's very klutzy, which I can relate to, but she has a very low opinion of herself. Given that she is friends with a model, and seems to gather attention from other male classmates, it was clear her views of herself were just self-esteem issues and had no real basis on how others viewed her.

For the most part, she’s a good girl. Not a fan of partying, she is more commonly the designated driver for her friends. But she has one major flaw, and that is her obsession with Lucas. I get that she wanted to understand what drove them apart, but I didn't get why she remained so fixed on a guy who treated her so poorly. This story had hints of the popular bully trope, with Lucas doing everything in his power to put June down. In addition, we have a spiteful mean girl to throw into the mix. Lucky for June, she had some friends (Abby and Tory) who had her back. I loved how they supported her and her crazy antics.

I wasn't fully on board with June's stalkerish tendencies, but her actions, and what she discovers dramatically change the course of the story. And in doing so, she's finally manages to break down some walls between her and Lucas.

This is the perfect story for YA fans, exploring the emotional roller-coaster of teenage life. If you are a fan of teen angst/drama, check this one out. I know I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, featuring two of the side characters from this one.

*An ARC was received for an honest review.

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