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Manchester Athletic #1
Penalty Kiss
Clean-living, wholesome, and with a constant smile plastered on her pretty face, Dee Jones is my antithesis.
She’s also what I’m told I need to polish my somewhat tarnished image – apparently being papped getting friendly with a fellow holiday maker on a sun lounger after your ex does a kiss-and-tell with the media isn’t exactly what Manchester Athletic deems great publicity for their bad boy midfielder.
A repair job is needed, and the club is hoping that the super shiny star player for the women’s team can transfer some of her good-girl sunshine stardust on to me.
But Dee hates me and I’m the last thing she wants to deal with right now, because Miss Dee has problems of her own. Problems that could score her an own goal.
She’s meant to be my penalty, but will she let me be her kiss instead?
Penalty Kiss is the first standalone in the Manchester Athletic series. Meet the team in this grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-lovers, bad boy athlete romance.
She’s also what I’m told I need to polish my somewhat tarnished image – apparently being papped getting friendly with a fellow holiday maker on a sun lounger after your ex does a kiss-and-tell with the media isn’t exactly what Manchester Athletic deems great publicity for their bad boy midfielder.
A repair job is needed, and the club is hoping that the super shiny star player for the women’s team can transfer some of her good-girl sunshine stardust on to me.
But Dee hates me and I’m the last thing she wants to deal with right now, because Miss Dee has problems of her own. Problems that could score her an own goal.
She’s meant to be my penalty, but will she let me be her kiss instead?
Penalty Kiss is the first standalone in the Manchester Athletic series. Meet the team in this grumpy/sunshine, enemies-to-lovers, bad boy athlete romance.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2022
138 people are currently reading
628 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
February 1, 2022
What I Liked :
- the heroine, Dee is also a professional athlete
- a sweet nephew, Toby for whom Dee is the sole guardian
- Rowan's relationship with Toby
- the slow burn build to the relationship
What I didn't Like :
- no real reasons for the MCs initially hating each other
- too many other factors/events that were butting into the story and felt unnecessary
Overall, this was still a very sweet read and I'm definitely interested to read about the other teammates in the series.
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- the heroine, Dee is also a professional athlete
- a sweet nephew, Toby for whom Dee is the sole guardian
- Rowan's relationship with Toby
- the slow burn build to the relationship
What I didn't Like :
- no real reasons for the MCs initially hating each other
- too many other factors/events that were butting into the story and felt unnecessary
Overall, this was still a very sweet read and I'm definitely interested to read about the other teammates in the series.
Find more of my reviews on :
March 8, 2022
4.5 stars
I picked up Penalty Kiss by Annie Dyer on a whim and can honestly say I was surprised and thrilled with this footballer (soccer) sports romance. One thing I appreciated is both the hero and the heroine were professional soccer players for Manchester Athletic. I’m going to admit I don’t know much about soccer at all or how things are done in the UK, but that didn’t keep me from thoroughly enjoying this book. I loved how this couple went from not really liking one another (more like she didn’t care for his reputation and something she’d seen in a club a few years back), to friends, to more and each step of the way they surprised me in the best of ways.
Rowan is a star player but his recent behavior off the field has become a PR problem for him and the club. To make amends he agrees to help coach in the club’s camp for children. Unfortunately Dee one of the top women players will be there as well and he knows she doesn’t particularly care for him. I loved that both Rowan and Dee are very competitive and they put their all in with the kids they were coaching trying to one up each other. It was good fun and great competition and I enjoyed watching them. It was also easy to see that Rowan had definitely made some mistakes but there was more to him especially when Dee had to bring her young nephew to camp and Rowan put him in his group.
Dee was thrust into caring for her nephew during the course of this book when her sister took off and left him while Dee was out of town at a club function. It was easy to see that Toby was important in her life and she would do anything for him. I felt bad for Toby and for Dee who was forced to make decisions when her sister dropped out of sight and didn’t return her calls. I love how Rowan jumped in to help having a connection with Toby from camp and because he found he genuinely liked Dee. Dee was a bit skeptical of Rowan’s attentions because she didn’t fit the mold of some of his previous women, but it was so easy to see how he felt about her. I truly believe Rowan was one of those athletes who came from nothing, got money and fame, and went a big wild but deep down that wasn’t who he was; he showed time and time again in this book the he was honest, hard working, and had a big heart evidenced by the fact he still helped his mom and younger siblings.
This wasn’t an easy romance, they both were working through things in their own lives and once it got out they were dating they got a lot of attention from the media which complicated matters in more ways than one. What I loved was that Rowan was patient as Dee worked through it all and never gave up, for me this really showed his true self.
Sweet, swoony, and very sexy I loved Penalty Kiss!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I picked up Penalty Kiss by Annie Dyer on a whim and can honestly say I was surprised and thrilled with this footballer (soccer) sports romance. One thing I appreciated is both the hero and the heroine were professional soccer players for Manchester Athletic. I’m going to admit I don’t know much about soccer at all or how things are done in the UK, but that didn’t keep me from thoroughly enjoying this book. I loved how this couple went from not really liking one another (more like she didn’t care for his reputation and something she’d seen in a club a few years back), to friends, to more and each step of the way they surprised me in the best of ways.
Rowan is a star player but his recent behavior off the field has become a PR problem for him and the club. To make amends he agrees to help coach in the club’s camp for children. Unfortunately Dee one of the top women players will be there as well and he knows she doesn’t particularly care for him. I loved that both Rowan and Dee are very competitive and they put their all in with the kids they were coaching trying to one up each other. It was good fun and great competition and I enjoyed watching them. It was also easy to see that Rowan had definitely made some mistakes but there was more to him especially when Dee had to bring her young nephew to camp and Rowan put him in his group.
Dee was thrust into caring for her nephew during the course of this book when her sister took off and left him while Dee was out of town at a club function. It was easy to see that Toby was important in her life and she would do anything for him. I felt bad for Toby and for Dee who was forced to make decisions when her sister dropped out of sight and didn’t return her calls. I love how Rowan jumped in to help having a connection with Toby from camp and because he found he genuinely liked Dee. Dee was a bit skeptical of Rowan’s attentions because she didn’t fit the mold of some of his previous women, but it was so easy to see how he felt about her. I truly believe Rowan was one of those athletes who came from nothing, got money and fame, and went a big wild but deep down that wasn’t who he was; he showed time and time again in this book the he was honest, hard working, and had a big heart evidenced by the fact he still helped his mom and younger siblings.
This wasn’t an easy romance, they both were working through things in their own lives and once it got out they were dating they got a lot of attention from the media which complicated matters in more ways than one. What I loved was that Rowan was patient as Dee worked through it all and never gave up, for me this really showed his true self.
Sweet, swoony, and very sexy I loved Penalty Kiss!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 19, 2022
Penalty Kiss by Annie Dyer is a treat for sports romance lovers. I loved how both hero and heroine were soccer players and how sports played central part in their relationship. It was swoony and sexy and emotional. You will fall in love with Rowan and Dee for sure.
Rowan has been a valuable player for Manchester Athletic for years but recently his personal life is giving him and his club a bad reputation that is not entirely true. He is instructed by his club to do some damage control and take part in the club's football camp for kids. There is a mild problem. Dee Jones, star of their woman's football team will be there too and she hates him with an intensity of a thousand suns.
It's so rare to read a book with female athlete specially in a mainstream game like soccer. So I loved Dee instantly. She is fierce and stubborn and crazy competitive and very talented. Her personal life has issues as she is taking care of her nephew who is neglected by her manipulative sister. She used to think Rowan is this arrogant player who thrives on attention and lives for the bad kind of enjoyment and has been handed over everything easily. But once they start working together, she realised that she has been mistaken. This man is honest and hard working and charming and owns the biggest heart ( with the biggest muscles in his biceps and thighs). Rowan was determined to show Dee that he is nothing like the media shows him to be. It was a sweet and hot hate-love situation and it was extremely entertaining. They had to work out a lot of issues. The media attention. Dee's insecurity and trust issues. Rowan's inability to open up easily. But they had a real connection and it all worked up wonderfully at the end. Both professionally and personally.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Rowan has been a valuable player for Manchester Athletic for years but recently his personal life is giving him and his club a bad reputation that is not entirely true. He is instructed by his club to do some damage control and take part in the club's football camp for kids. There is a mild problem. Dee Jones, star of their woman's football team will be there too and she hates him with an intensity of a thousand suns.
It's so rare to read a book with female athlete specially in a mainstream game like soccer. So I loved Dee instantly. She is fierce and stubborn and crazy competitive and very talented. Her personal life has issues as she is taking care of her nephew who is neglected by her manipulative sister. She used to think Rowan is this arrogant player who thrives on attention and lives for the bad kind of enjoyment and has been handed over everything easily. But once they start working together, she realised that she has been mistaken. This man is honest and hard working and charming and owns the biggest heart ( with the biggest muscles in his biceps and thighs). Rowan was determined to show Dee that he is nothing like the media shows him to be. It was a sweet and hot hate-love situation and it was extremely entertaining. They had to work out a lot of issues. The media attention. Dee's insecurity and trust issues. Rowan's inability to open up easily. But they had a real connection and it all worked up wonderfully at the end. Both professionally and personally.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
January 26, 2022
This is the story of Rowan Reese and Dee Jones. They both play for Manchester Athletic (mens team and women’s team, respectively). He’s grumpy, ladies man and needs to clean his image. Dee is sunshine personified! They couldn’t be more different, yet they are always looking for each other.
The team management is making great efforts to give more visibility to the women’s team and decides to do some pre-season activities alongside the mens team… ahhhh! OMG! 🤩🤩🤩 I honestly don’t want to give the book away, I just want to say that I loved their banter. It’s a professional competition between these two, no kidding! I loved to see so much talk about the sport (soccer, football 😍), how this should be happening in real life (give more opportunities to the women’s team).
I loved their chemistry! Gahhh two athletes?!? Yes please and THANK YOU! How they become ONE 😍 You all honestly really need to read this book, whether your into soccer or not, this book is amazing! Ms. Dyer does an outstanding job describing the characters and all the places they visit. I honestly felt I was at the stadium 😍
I cannot recommend this book enough!
The team management is making great efforts to give more visibility to the women’s team and decides to do some pre-season activities alongside the mens team… ahhhh! OMG! 🤩🤩🤩 I honestly don’t want to give the book away, I just want to say that I loved their banter. It’s a professional competition between these two, no kidding! I loved to see so much talk about the sport (soccer, football 😍), how this should be happening in real life (give more opportunities to the women’s team).
I loved their chemistry! Gahhh two athletes?!? Yes please and THANK YOU! How they become ONE 😍 You all honestly really need to read this book, whether your into soccer or not, this book is amazing! Ms. Dyer does an outstanding job describing the characters and all the places they visit. I honestly felt I was at the stadium 😍
I cannot recommend this book enough!
September 6, 2023
We have to say we enjoyed the story and its characters, we really loved them, actually. The story was a little slow-going but, still engaging because of its characters the teasing that went on, and the computation that went on between the characters.
This story is pretty straightforward forward and the plot surrounds Dee going through challenges that a lot of people face in real life, It doesn't matter if you are rich or poor or just okay, some people just can't deal with life period. We loved that she stepped up to the plate and that she was successful, kind, loving, and as Rowan says pure sunshine.
We loved how protective Dee was of Toby and our heart breaks for her because of the situation she was put in but, we loved that she was doing what was best for her nephew. Not only that, but we loved how supportive Rowan was but, not pushy, he mostly proposed questions to let her think about their outcome.
I didn't get that feel of enemies to lover feel, more like a strong dislike that Dee had for Rowan and that mostly came from the scandal sheets not what she knew about the man, but, spending time one-on-one with the man has given her a new perspective toward him.
We loved Dee and Rowan as a couple, although I didn't feel the chemistry between them, We thought they were good together and belonged with one another, and we loved that Toby was included in their courtship.
This story is pretty straightforward forward and the plot surrounds Dee going through challenges that a lot of people face in real life, It doesn't matter if you are rich or poor or just okay, some people just can't deal with life period. We loved that she stepped up to the plate and that she was successful, kind, loving, and as Rowan says pure sunshine.
We loved how protective Dee was of Toby and our heart breaks for her because of the situation she was put in but, we loved that she was doing what was best for her nephew. Not only that, but we loved how supportive Rowan was but, not pushy, he mostly proposed questions to let her think about their outcome.
I didn't get that feel of enemies to lover feel, more like a strong dislike that Dee had for Rowan and that mostly came from the scandal sheets not what she knew about the man, but, spending time one-on-one with the man has given her a new perspective toward him.
We loved Dee and Rowan as a couple, although I didn't feel the chemistry between them, We thought they were good together and belonged with one another, and we loved that Toby was included in their courtship.
January 24, 2022
4 star Review Penalty Kiss (Manchester Athletic #1) by Annie Dyer
Annie Dyer is a relatively new author to me so when the opportunity to read book one in her latest series Manchester Athletic came up I couldn’t wait to dive in.
This is Dee Jones and Rowan Reeves story and if this is anything to go by, I cannot wait to see what she has in store for the series. These two could not be more different and yet somehow they are well suited.
This book was well written with characters that were engaging and whose story I quickly became hooked on. Put together by their club to try and fix Rowan image, Dee is not interested in him. She is busy looking after her nephew and has no time for what she feels are trivial matters.
I really liked Rowan, he spent a lot of the book trying to get Dee to smile which wasn’t an easy task; he was totally swoon worthy. Dee was focused, determined and driven and she grew on me.
The chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore and it was entertaining to watch the relationship develop.
Annie Dyer is a relatively new author to me so when the opportunity to read book one in her latest series Manchester Athletic came up I couldn’t wait to dive in.
This is Dee Jones and Rowan Reeves story and if this is anything to go by, I cannot wait to see what she has in store for the series. These two could not be more different and yet somehow they are well suited.
This book was well written with characters that were engaging and whose story I quickly became hooked on. Put together by their club to try and fix Rowan image, Dee is not interested in him. She is busy looking after her nephew and has no time for what she feels are trivial matters.
I really liked Rowan, he spent a lot of the book trying to get Dee to smile which wasn’t an easy task; he was totally swoon worthy. Dee was focused, determined and driven and she grew on me.
The chemistry between them becomes impossible to ignore and it was entertaining to watch the relationship develop.
January 26, 2022
An enchanting love story about two atheletes who makes you go through an array of emotions.
It's a read filled with laughter, witty banter, a little bit of suspense and loads of charm.
Rowan and Dee are one of my favourite couple. The tig your heart strings with their bond. It was very easy to connect with them as you read them get to know each other, become friends then fall in love. The things they go through are very realistic which has you engrossed.
Reading about a female athelete is refreshing and you cannot stop yourself from loving Dee. Her loyalty towards her loved ones, her zeal for the sport is admirable.
The way both Dee and Rowan take care of Tobais is heart warming and makes you believe that still good exist in the world.
I absolutely loved Ryan, Ryhs, Genny, Toby and cannot wait to read more of them.
It's an amazing world building and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series😁.
I received an ARC copy for a honest review 😊.
It's a read filled with laughter, witty banter, a little bit of suspense and loads of charm.
Rowan and Dee are one of my favourite couple. The tig your heart strings with their bond. It was very easy to connect with them as you read them get to know each other, become friends then fall in love. The things they go through are very realistic which has you engrossed.
Reading about a female athelete is refreshing and you cannot stop yourself from loving Dee. Her loyalty towards her loved ones, her zeal for the sport is admirable.
The way both Dee and Rowan take care of Tobais is heart warming and makes you believe that still good exist in the world.
I absolutely loved Ryan, Ryhs, Genny, Toby and cannot wait to read more of them.
It's an amazing world building and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series😁.
I received an ARC copy for a honest review 😊.
January 15, 2022
Penalty Kiss
A Manchester Athletic Romance
Annie Dyer
From page one I loved Rowan! The humour, the smart sass, the banter loved him. Rowan a professional footballer for Manchester Athletic’s reputation in the media is not great, it’s not true, but it doesn’t bode well for his upcoming season. Until he gets thrown into media duties with his stellar opposite, Dee. She is all good intentions and plays professionally on the women’s team.
A fun, character driven sports romance that has depth and is over way too fast! I loved both the leads and the supporting characters and can’t wait to read more of the Manchester Athletic crew stories!!! Soooo many already have me hooked to know more.
This is the first book in a new series but can be read as a stand-alone novel with hea. I received an arc of this book.
Ms Dyer has brought characters worth knowing, sass, banter and a depth of storyline together in a great novel once again, she can do no wrong!
Loved it!
5 football stars
A Manchester Athletic Romance
Annie Dyer
From page one I loved Rowan! The humour, the smart sass, the banter loved him. Rowan a professional footballer for Manchester Athletic’s reputation in the media is not great, it’s not true, but it doesn’t bode well for his upcoming season. Until he gets thrown into media duties with his stellar opposite, Dee. She is all good intentions and plays professionally on the women’s team.
A fun, character driven sports romance that has depth and is over way too fast! I loved both the leads and the supporting characters and can’t wait to read more of the Manchester Athletic crew stories!!! Soooo many already have me hooked to know more.
This is the first book in a new series but can be read as a stand-alone novel with hea. I received an arc of this book.
Ms Dyer has brought characters worth knowing, sass, banter and a depth of storyline together in a great novel once again, she can do no wrong!
Loved it!
5 football stars
January 27, 2022
**4.5 stars ✨
I absolutely love sports romance books and the Penalty Kiss does not disappoint!!
Rowan and Dee’s story is just everything and I enjoyed getting to know these characters. With Dee she was an intriguing character to me and I don’t usually read a character like her and I instantly knew she was going to be one of my favorites. Everything about her I loved getting to know, given she’s absolutely fierce. Rowan is what I LOVE in a male character especially in these sports romance books. It’s like you think he’s a certain type of character but he surprises you in the best way. The moments between Rowan and Dee were enjoyable to read and I literally couldn’t stop reading. It’s books like this one that instantly have you hooked.
Overall Penalty Kiss is a great start to an intriguing series! I honestly can’t wait for what’s to come of this series, it’s going to be a wild ride!!
I absolutely love sports romance books and the Penalty Kiss does not disappoint!!
Rowan and Dee’s story is just everything and I enjoyed getting to know these characters. With Dee she was an intriguing character to me and I don’t usually read a character like her and I instantly knew she was going to be one of my favorites. Everything about her I loved getting to know, given she’s absolutely fierce. Rowan is what I LOVE in a male character especially in these sports romance books. It’s like you think he’s a certain type of character but he surprises you in the best way. The moments between Rowan and Dee were enjoyable to read and I literally couldn’t stop reading. It’s books like this one that instantly have you hooked.
Overall Penalty Kiss is a great start to an intriguing series! I honestly can’t wait for what’s to come of this series, it’s going to be a wild ride!!
January 12, 2022
I really enjoyed Annie Dyer's first foray into the world of sports romance. Rowan has messed up his public image through indiscretion and naivety but isn't the bad guy Dee thinks; Dee is hard-working and passionate about her sport, but is very different from the Little Miss Perfect that Rowan sees. When the two of them are forced together in a few different situations, they both have to adjust their perceptions, as well as dealing with an unexpected attraction...
The fact that both main protagonists were footballers and equally committed to their careers was refreshing, and the story dealt well with the everyday reality of those careers, not just the money and perceived glamour aspect. The whole Manchester Athletic setup felt realistic, but didn't take over: it was the perfect framework for two characters who had depth, and their own struggles, and a naturally competitive nature which created delicious banter and sparks a-plenty! It also offered just enough intriguing hints of what's to come - I'm certainly looking forward to the next in the series.
The fact that both main protagonists were footballers and equally committed to their careers was refreshing, and the story dealt well with the everyday reality of those careers, not just the money and perceived glamour aspect. The whole Manchester Athletic setup felt realistic, but didn't take over: it was the perfect framework for two characters who had depth, and their own struggles, and a naturally competitive nature which created delicious banter and sparks a-plenty! It also offered just enough intriguing hints of what's to come - I'm certainly looking forward to the next in the series.
January 16, 2022
A great start to a new series! Rowan and Dee are both professional footballers(soccer). Rowan needs to get over a ugly scandal and play the sport he loves. Dee loves her nephew but needs to stop enabling her sister and the dysfunctional life she is living. As Rowan and Dee get to know each other a great friendship forms. But can these two become much more then friends? This was a great quick read. I loved the quick paced writing style and the layered story. I’m already looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
January 10, 2022
Penalty Kiss was adorable. I loved both Rowan and Dee, Rowan a little bit more cause he seemed like a golden retriever type of person, but they were both strong characters. I loved how they were both footballers, which was a very original career path for a sports romance novel. And I enjoyed all the smaller details of their careers in their story that actually added a lot to their relationship!
Dee has a lot on her plate between her sister, her nephew, and her career and balancing all three. She struggles a lot in the beginning of the book and watching all the people in her life step up and help was so heartwarming.
I think one of my favorite parts of this book is how the author doesn't use miscommunication as a way to cause conflict between Dee and Rowan. I found that to be original and made Penalty Kiss stand out for me! The internal conflicts of both Dee and Rowan made the story strong enough on its own.
Dee has a lot on her plate between her sister, her nephew, and her career and balancing all three. She struggles a lot in the beginning of the book and watching all the people in her life step up and help was so heartwarming.
I think one of my favorite parts of this book is how the author doesn't use miscommunication as a way to cause conflict between Dee and Rowan. I found that to be original and made Penalty Kiss stand out for me! The internal conflicts of both Dee and Rowan made the story strong enough on its own.
January 10, 2022
Rowan is a famous Football player in Manchester who gets into a bit of trouble with the media. In order for him straighten out his image he is helping kids out at a camp, which he loves doing anyway, but this time he gets to know Dee who is on the Women's football team and her nephew. When the men's and women's teams go for some preseason training together things only heat up between the two once he win's her over from her initial dislike of him. I loved the competitions during their trip, I love how they slowly fell in love with each other and I love how quickly Rowan made himself a part of Dee's nephew's life giving him a solid male role model. The banter between Dee and Rowan is wonderful and the heat is off the charts! A beautifully written book in a new world by Annie Dyer, I can't wait for the next book!
January 13, 2022
Not being a football fan , I wondered if I would enjoy this book , but I 100% did .
I easily, & happily , got caught up in Rowan and Dee’s story .
Yes it’s about football, but it’s also about the expectations that the players have put on them , by the public , the media , & their clubs.
Rowan appears to be the bad boy of football, & Dee appears to be the goody two shoes of football. The world seems to think that they know exactly who the two of them are , but they don’t .
I loved reading the journey of Rowan and Dee not liking each other , to finally realising that they are perfect for each other .
Great read
I easily, & happily , got caught up in Rowan and Dee’s story .
Yes it’s about football, but it’s also about the expectations that the players have put on them , by the public , the media , & their clubs.
Rowan appears to be the bad boy of football, & Dee appears to be the goody two shoes of football. The world seems to think that they know exactly who the two of them are , but they don’t .
I loved reading the journey of Rowan and Dee not liking each other , to finally realising that they are perfect for each other .
Great read
January 11, 2022
I am SO excited so this new series by Annie Dyer!!
Opposites attract and enemies to lovers all rolled into one fantastic story!! Dee and Rowan clash at every turn but when he is forced to work a children's clinic to polish him image, the two are thrown together. Though they fight their growing attraction, they just can't stay away from each other.
This is a great story with lots of banter, sexy times and romance. I can't wait for the next in the series!!
Opposites attract and enemies to lovers all rolled into one fantastic story!! Dee and Rowan clash at every turn but when he is forced to work a children's clinic to polish him image, the two are thrown together. Though they fight their growing attraction, they just can't stay away from each other.
This is a great story with lots of banter, sexy times and romance. I can't wait for the next in the series!!
January 29, 2022
The Penalty Kiss is a Chef's Kiss!!
Penalty Kiss is Book 1 in Annie Dyer's new Manchester Athletic Football (soccer) series and what a kick off it was. While this is Rowan and Dee's story the introduction of new characters and the subtle easter eggs dropped throughout has me excited for what's to come in this series.
Oh Rowan! Gosh I loved him... He may be labelled the broody bad boy of the squad but damn shed away those layers and this man was all kinds of sexy, sweet and swoony. Plus his interactions with little Toby... Oh My Heart & Ovaries!!
When his reputation is in question the club requests Rowan to assist the kids at the local football camp. He wasn't too bothered until he discovers Dee, a star player of the Manchester Athletic womans squad will be there, and these two share a mutual dislike for each other (or is it really some kind of sexual tension / foreplay? hehe)
She is the sunshine to his broodiness but these opposites are perfecto together.
I loved watching them move from enemies to friends to lovers.
Their banter..... Hilarious
The sizzling chemistry.... Hot Damn
The Swoon..... OH MY!!
Story Pest ... Damn I want to throat punch you
And I lllooovveedddd that while the plot has some drama-rama the couple angst is low.
I loved the start of this new series and can't wait for Book 2.. Oh Ryan! Who is your secret little companion?
A Highly Recommended Read!
Penalty Kiss is Book 1 in Annie Dyer's new Manchester Athletic Football (soccer) series and what a kick off it was. While this is Rowan and Dee's story the introduction of new characters and the subtle easter eggs dropped throughout has me excited for what's to come in this series.
Oh Rowan! Gosh I loved him... He may be labelled the broody bad boy of the squad but damn shed away those layers and this man was all kinds of sexy, sweet and swoony. Plus his interactions with little Toby... Oh My Heart & Ovaries!!
When his reputation is in question the club requests Rowan to assist the kids at the local football camp. He wasn't too bothered until he discovers Dee, a star player of the Manchester Athletic womans squad will be there, and these two share a mutual dislike for each other (or is it really some kind of sexual tension / foreplay? hehe)
She is the sunshine to his broodiness but these opposites are perfecto together.
I loved watching them move from enemies to friends to lovers.
Their banter..... Hilarious
The sizzling chemistry.... Hot Damn
The Swoon..... OH MY!!
Story Pest ... Damn I want to throat punch you
And I lllooovveedddd that while the plot has some drama-rama the couple angst is low.
I loved the start of this new series and can't wait for Book 2.. Oh Ryan! Who is your secret little companion?
A Highly Recommended Read!
January 15, 2022
This is the awesome beginning of a new series about hot football/soccer players, men and women. This book is about Rowan and Dee. They are great players who seem to be opposite at first, but then turns out have a lot in common. They both have complicated baggage, but are able to work it through. There are lovely and sassy secondary characters in this story who make it more interesting. I sure hope we’ll get to read their stories next!
January 24, 2022
What a great read, I loved it from start to finish.
Rowan is a professional footballer and lives for the game, but after getting some bad press he has to redeem himself so is told he will help with the children football holiday club, and make other appearances.
Dee is a female professional footballer, like Rowan she lives for the game, and has her sister and nephew live with her, which is not easy, her sister wants a life and she expects too much of Dee.
Dee and Rowan are completely different and they really dislike each other, until they don’t. Their road to happiness is not going to be easy, they need to learn to trust each other, and also ask each other for help when they need it, especially when trouble comes knocking!
Rowan is a professional footballer and lives for the game, but after getting some bad press he has to redeem himself so is told he will help with the children football holiday club, and make other appearances.
Dee is a female professional footballer, like Rowan she lives for the game, and has her sister and nephew live with her, which is not easy, her sister wants a life and she expects too much of Dee.
Dee and Rowan are completely different and they really dislike each other, until they don’t. Their road to happiness is not going to be easy, they need to learn to trust each other, and also ask each other for help when they need it, especially when trouble comes knocking!
December 18, 2022
I have been desperate for Penalty Kiss! I did not disappoint and if I could give it more than 5 stars I would!
Penalty Kiss, the first book in Annie Dyer's new Manchester Athletic Football(soccer) series! What a fantastic world she has created with characters I am already desperate to know everything about! I mean if she could write all the books now that would be fantastic!
Rowan is the grumpy/bad boy of the squad , always in the headlines for something he has done wrong, never for anything good he does. After an ex sells a "story" the owner needs to do some damage control! So Rowan is asked to help teach the kids at the local football camp which is fine with him until he finds out who will also be there!
Dee is one of the star players of Manchester Athletic womans squad and is sunshine to Rowan's dark grumpy cloud. She also can't stand him! She has a lot going on, her sister is consistently MIA leaving Dee to care for her nephew. The last thing she needs is Rowan's grumpy self getting in her way when she helps out at the local football camp.
Rowan and Dee both have a lot going on, both are cautious, for different reasons but the sparks fly instantly the minute these two are anywhere together and wait until Rowan and Toby (Dee's nephew) meet......ovaries will explode everywhere!
Loved seeing the rest of the Manchester Athletic team and getting to know them. I am very excited for Ryan's book......what is going on with him?!!! I really hope Genny gets one too!
Enemies to lovers, single parent (though not in the traditional sense), sports romance this is my catnip and I am here for it!
Penalty Kiss, the first book in Annie Dyer's new Manchester Athletic Football(soccer) series! What a fantastic world she has created with characters I am already desperate to know everything about! I mean if she could write all the books now that would be fantastic!
Rowan is the grumpy/bad boy of the squad , always in the headlines for something he has done wrong, never for anything good he does. After an ex sells a "story" the owner needs to do some damage control! So Rowan is asked to help teach the kids at the local football camp which is fine with him until he finds out who will also be there!
Dee is one of the star players of Manchester Athletic womans squad and is sunshine to Rowan's dark grumpy cloud. She also can't stand him! She has a lot going on, her sister is consistently MIA leaving Dee to care for her nephew. The last thing she needs is Rowan's grumpy self getting in her way when she helps out at the local football camp.
Rowan and Dee both have a lot going on, both are cautious, for different reasons but the sparks fly instantly the minute these two are anywhere together and wait until Rowan and Toby (Dee's nephew) meet......ovaries will explode everywhere!
Loved seeing the rest of the Manchester Athletic team and getting to know them. I am very excited for Ryan's book......what is going on with him?!!! I really hope Genny gets one too!
Enemies to lovers, single parent (though not in the traditional sense), sports romance this is my catnip and I am here for it!
January 27, 2022
This is the start of a new series by this author. I have loved two of her previous series and so I was really excited to check out this newest series. It's about players on the Manchester Athletic Soccer Club and it takes place in Britain.
The characters we meet in this book is Rowan, who is the bad boy of the men's soccer club but also the star player and captain. When he creates two scandals, his team needs to clean up his image and so they send him to a summer soccer camp to inspire the kids attending.
We also meet Dee, who is the woman's soccer club team captain. She lives with her single mom sister and nephew. The single sister is very much absent in this book and a very bad mom and so Dee ends up taking care of her nephew. When her sister runs away with her latest boyfriend, Dee has no choice but to bring her nephew to the team's summer soccer camp.
Dee and Rowan are very much opposites, and they HATE each other. He lusts for her, but he also thinks she is no fun and looks down on him for his antics. Dee feels that he does not take soccer seriously and is a bad boy who just causes scandals.
When they both end up at the soccer camp, they manage to find middle ground and when they both love Dee's nephew they start to let down their walls.
I loved this book so much. The only character I did not like was Dee's sister. I adored Rowan. He is a guy who is very misunderstood. He likes to have fun and enjoy life and he is sometimes caught off guard. He is the fun guy and well Dee has not had much fun in her life and so I loved how he brings out her fun side as they really start to see each other. This is very much opposites attract romance and I loved the characters and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters we meet in this book is Rowan, who is the bad boy of the men's soccer club but also the star player and captain. When he creates two scandals, his team needs to clean up his image and so they send him to a summer soccer camp to inspire the kids attending.
We also meet Dee, who is the woman's soccer club team captain. She lives with her single mom sister and nephew. The single sister is very much absent in this book and a very bad mom and so Dee ends up taking care of her nephew. When her sister runs away with her latest boyfriend, Dee has no choice but to bring her nephew to the team's summer soccer camp.
Dee and Rowan are very much opposites, and they HATE each other. He lusts for her, but he also thinks she is no fun and looks down on him for his antics. Dee feels that he does not take soccer seriously and is a bad boy who just causes scandals.
When they both end up at the soccer camp, they manage to find middle ground and when they both love Dee's nephew they start to let down their walls.
I loved this book so much. The only character I did not like was Dee's sister. I adored Rowan. He is a guy who is very misunderstood. He likes to have fun and enjoy life and he is sometimes caught off guard. He is the fun guy and well Dee has not had much fun in her life and so I loved how he brings out her fun side as they really start to see each other. This is very much opposites attract romance and I loved the characters and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2022
Rowan gave me major Roy Kent vibes from the word go, and I was so incredibly here for it; it set the stage right from the very beginning.
Oh, you want more to go on that just that? Okay, okay, fair enough. While the Roy Kent vibes were there, it wasn't a carbon copy; I felt like Rowan's softer edges were a bit closer to the surface that Roy's and once they were revealed, they stayed visible for more people to see.
I really loved Dee; while Rowan's nickname for her was sparkles, we came to learn quickly that was just a facade and she had some really serious stuff going on with her life that she felt she couldn't share with basically anyone. Once she opened up to Rowan though, I absolutely adored the way he came through for her and supported her, even when she thought she didn't need his support.
While there was definitely a physical chemistry between Rowan and Bee, I really liked how the tension was built, and how Dyer focused on their emotional connection first, and then hit us with some great doses of steam in the 3rd act. The pacing was just really well done and satisfying for a enemies to lovers reader.
Annie set an excellent stage for the rest of the novels in this series in this one without detracting in any way from Rowan and Dee's story and I can't wait to read more about the Manchester Athletic world soon!
I received a copy of this book so I could leave this honest review.
Oh, you want more to go on that just that? Okay, okay, fair enough. While the Roy Kent vibes were there, it wasn't a carbon copy; I felt like Rowan's softer edges were a bit closer to the surface that Roy's and once they were revealed, they stayed visible for more people to see.
I really loved Dee; while Rowan's nickname for her was sparkles, we came to learn quickly that was just a facade and she had some really serious stuff going on with her life that she felt she couldn't share with basically anyone. Once she opened up to Rowan though, I absolutely adored the way he came through for her and supported her, even when she thought she didn't need his support.
While there was definitely a physical chemistry between Rowan and Bee, I really liked how the tension was built, and how Dyer focused on their emotional connection first, and then hit us with some great doses of steam in the 3rd act. The pacing was just really well done and satisfying for a enemies to lovers reader.
Annie set an excellent stage for the rest of the novels in this series in this one without detracting in any way from Rowan and Dee's story and I can't wait to read more about the Manchester Athletic world soon!
I received a copy of this book so I could leave this honest review.
December 13, 2023
"I'd expected to be teased more by him. "So what do you have a thing for?"
"Women who leave me hanging after the best kiss of my life".
★ . . sports (soccer) romance
★ . . grumpy x sunshine
★ . . enemies to lovers
★ . . forced proximity
★ . . steam level: don't read in public
I don't really remember when I got the book and why but I don't regret it!
this book, which is the first in the series called "Manchester Athletic" by Annie Dyer, is an interesting one. it's not your typical sports romance book, we've got a lot of backstories for both MCs, they've got a core and aren't just simple "jock" and his "sunshine".
both MCs are professional football (soccer) players and play for the same club, just different teams (men's and women's teams), we've got a bit of forced proximity which isn't really in your face but really neat and clean.
the romance is rather slow burn but it's worth the wait!
"Women who leave me hanging after the best kiss of my life".
★ . . sports (soccer) romance
★ . . grumpy x sunshine
★ . . enemies to lovers
★ . . forced proximity
★ . . steam level: don't read in public
I don't really remember when I got the book and why but I don't regret it!
this book, which is the first in the series called "Manchester Athletic" by Annie Dyer, is an interesting one. it's not your typical sports romance book, we've got a lot of backstories for both MCs, they've got a core and aren't just simple "jock" and his "sunshine".
both MCs are professional football (soccer) players and play for the same club, just different teams (men's and women's teams), we've got a bit of forced proximity which isn't really in your face but really neat and clean.
the romance is rather slow burn but it's worth the wait!
January 17, 2022
Penalty Kiss is the first instalment of the new footy series and it has all of the witty English quippyness you would expect from Annie Dyer.
Rowan and Dee are fabulous together and bring a warm simmer throughout the entire book as they challenge and play off one another with their differences. As always, Annie leaves you dangling in anticipation of the next instalment with lots of easter eggs for what is to come. And, the Callaghan's do make a very small appearance tying both series together.
Rowan and Dee are fabulous together and bring a warm simmer throughout the entire book as they challenge and play off one another with their differences. As always, Annie leaves you dangling in anticipation of the next instalment with lots of easter eggs for what is to come. And, the Callaghan's do make a very small appearance tying both series together.
January 27, 2022
Good start to a new series ... I wasn't sure about Rowan but i really liked Dee. When Rowan finds himself in the middle of a living nightmare he calls on Dee to help him. Them learning to be friends was fun to watch. I love Toby he is adorable. He definitely pulls out a different side of Rowan noone was expecting. This was more of a slow burn but they are d
Scorching when they get there. Will definitely be reading book 2.
Scorching when they get there. Will definitely be reading book 2.
January 27, 2022
I really enjoyed the sports romancs story, the new environment, the competition between them and how they slowly fell in love with each other. The competition between them still stayed and I loved that. They had their issues because they had the attention of the press but they managed to work through them and their relationship became so much stronger because of that. Definitely a must read!
January 10, 2022
Manchester Athletic #1
Dee Jones is Captain of the Manchester Athletic Women's Team and has the good girl attitude to go with that everyone loves.
Rowan Reeves has played 10 years as a professional footballer and plays for the Manchester Athletics and doesn't have the best reputation with the media. So when pictures and an interview hits social media the club wants Rowan to work with Dee to improve his reputation. They are like oil and vinegar but the more time they spend together they start to like each other. But Dee has a lot on her plate with her sister leaving town and her nephew being left behind as well as her career. What about Rowan?
There's a lot to overcome, can they make it work? And what about Ryan?
4 stars
Dee Jones is Captain of the Manchester Athletic Women's Team and has the good girl attitude to go with that everyone loves.
Rowan Reeves has played 10 years as a professional footballer and plays for the Manchester Athletics and doesn't have the best reputation with the media. So when pictures and an interview hits social media the club wants Rowan to work with Dee to improve his reputation. They are like oil and vinegar but the more time they spend together they start to like each other. But Dee has a lot on her plate with her sister leaving town and her nephew being left behind as well as her career. What about Rowan?
There's a lot to overcome, can they make it work? And what about Ryan?
4 stars
February 1, 2022
A playboy who falls for female footballer that is complete opposite of him. Enjoyable quick read with just enough drama and humor to keep me interested to finish reading all in one afternoon
February 9, 2022
Good read
This was a good read but there were quite a bit of errors. The guy's manager was called Guy half of the book and then Gus the other half so not sure what his name actually is. Also just some other small errors but other than that it was a good read.
This was a good read but there were quite a bit of errors. The guy's manager was called Guy half of the book and then Gus the other half so not sure what his name actually is. Also just some other small errors but other than that it was a good read.
January 17, 2022
This is a wonderful start to a new series! I have been waiting for this book & it did not disappoint!!! Rowan has messed up his public image and needs help fixing it & this is were Dee enters in. Dee is on the Manchester Women's team & is busy taking care of her nephew but is very sunny & well behaved which is why she is perfect for helping improve Rowan's reputation. Rowan sees her as Ms. Perfect, someone who walks the straight line where as she sees Rowan as a grump and can't stand him. This was a perfect enemies to lovers, single parent (in a non traditional way) story!
January 31, 2022
Penalty Kiss by Annie Dyer is the first book in the Manchester Athletic series, and oh my GIDDY AUNT but what a READ! Dee and Rowan are a DELIGHT!
Rowan is grouchy and snarky and I couldn't help but love his attitude, even when I wanted to reach into the book and either give him a hug or give him a shake!
Dee is charming! She's a straight shooter, has a lot of pressure on her and thus is goal oriented, literally, (I wish I was as clever as that just made me feel!) and is such a loving and caring person, once she likes you.
The dichotomy of Ro and Dee was such a blast to read and get to experience! It's a rollercoaster ride of a journey and I loved every single moment! Drama, healthy competition, meaningful conversation, and lots of chemistry make for the perfect blend of a sports romance!
I ADORE Rhys! Such sass, such loyalty, such support, even if it's to say when you've messed up. LOVE. HIM.
Also, I am FASCINATED by Genevieve! Genny is a hoot, and I loved finding out more about her as she interacted with the other characters!
P. S. Toby is too CUTE.
P. P. S. Also so curious about Ryan!!! I have thoughts, and I cannot wait to see if they pan out!
Rowan is grouchy and snarky and I couldn't help but love his attitude, even when I wanted to reach into the book and either give him a hug or give him a shake!
Dee is charming! She's a straight shooter, has a lot of pressure on her and thus is goal oriented, literally, (I wish I was as clever as that just made me feel!) and is such a loving and caring person, once she likes you.
The dichotomy of Ro and Dee was such a blast to read and get to experience! It's a rollercoaster ride of a journey and I loved every single moment! Drama, healthy competition, meaningful conversation, and lots of chemistry make for the perfect blend of a sports romance!
I ADORE Rhys! Such sass, such loyalty, such support, even if it's to say when you've messed up. LOVE. HIM.
Also, I am FASCINATED by Genevieve! Genny is a hoot, and I loved finding out more about her as she interacted with the other characters!
P. S. Toby is too CUTE.
P. P. S. Also so curious about Ryan!!! I have thoughts, and I cannot wait to see if they pan out!
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