Defending the Backfield

LA Wolves #5

by Cadence Keys

Gabe
I’m living the high life as one of the best defensive backs in professional football. During a night out I lock eyes with the mysterious waitress at the bar, and I’m instantly drawn to her. So, when I’m inadvertently responsible for her losing her job, the defender in me does the first thing I can think of–I offer her a job and rent-free housing in my pool house. Falling in love with the woman of my dreams is just a perk. When her past catches up to her, our relationship is put at risk. It's my job to defend the backfield, but will she let me defend her too?

Danae
I’m on the run from my abusive ex and quickly running out of options when one chance encounter with hulking football player, Gabe Romero, results in an opportunity too good to turn down. With his offer comes safety and more money than I’d ever make slinging drinks at dingy dive bars. The last thing I expected was to fall in love with him and experience a passion I never knew existed. But I should’ve known this kind of happiness could never last. When my ex finds me, I’m left with only two options: run and keep Gabe safe, or stay and fight for my happily ever after.

Defending the Backfield is a steamy football romance. It is book five in the LA Wolves series and can be read as a standalone.

Genres: Sports, Sports Romance, Football, Romance, Amazon

288 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2023

About the author

Cadence Keys writes steamy contemporary sports romances about complex alpha males and the women who love them. She loves football, coffee, and watching Gilmore Girl marathons. She has been writing for almost a decade, but only recently got the gumption to really do something with her work. She looks forward to publishing many more novels, specifically her LA Wolves series.

You can also find more information about all future releases at www.cadencekeysauthor.com/

Reviews

[Loco Reads]

DNF @43%. I tried so hard to push through this one. I was thinking by about 25% it was probably going to be a bit of a boring and predictable 3 star, but unfortunately it just never got better and when I finally got to the scene that got me into the book, it was so badly done, I had to call it.

First of all, why is every woman who is a victim of domestic abuse always portrayed as the same shrinking violet, closed off mysterious type character? Sure, some are, but many more of us are not! Many of us deal with the trauma in other ways, like oversharing and letting strangers know every detail of our trauma or being overly friendly and helpful because we seek approval and connection. It's painfully obvious when an author has no real experience or knowledge of domestic abuse and it's just a character feature. To be fair, she's far from the first author to portray DAV's this way, so I don't hold that too much against her, it's just a personal pet peeve.

What really was a struggle though was the weird mismatch between the heaviness of the FMC's situation and these bizarre moments when the author seemed to remember this was supposed to be a sports romance and so she'd have the characters thinking sexual things or having sexual fantasies. I'm not saying you can't have both in a book, in fact I have frequently read books with both that I've enjoyed, but the way it was handled in this was jarring, especially since the FMC's WHOLE personality was "victimized" so it was really uncomfortable when she or the MMC randomly thought something sexual. It felt awkward and out of place, not sexy. It might be the cynic in me, but I couldn't help but think how convenient it was that the MMC was attracted to her or else he would have never helped her out. It would have been so much better if he helped her BEFORE he was attracted to her instead of offering her a job almost solely because he *was* attracted to her. Trying to excuse it by saying "he just felt a connection" is just lazy and doesn't negate the fact that he was basically faking altruism to get closer to her. Which in a regular romance novel wouldn't matter that much, but because of the subject matter, it makes the whole thing more sleezy than it normally would.

There was so much assumed intimacy that was never actually communicated between the two of them that by the time I got to the part where he accuses her of stealing, I was already pretty checked out. MMC who is completely infatuated with the FMC even though he hasn't told her this in any real way, sees a box of his comics missing and immediately assumes the h stole it. I do think he jumped to conclusions a little quickly and it seemed 100% out of character for him up until that point, but to be fair, It's a pretty fair assumption given he doesn't even know this chick's real last name! The heroine's response to it all was what made me finally DNF. She is so COMPLETELY hurt and angry by this! HOW could he think that JUST because the expensive comics he caught her looking at a few weeks ago were missing that she stole them! After 6 whole weeks of being evasive and shady about every personal thing in her life, how could he think such a thing?! I mean she told him she wanted to open up a bakery, for god sakes, shouldn't that *mean* something to him!?! *insert heavy sarcasm.*

At that point, I realized I just didn't at all care what happened next or if they actually got together or not, so I cut my losses and called it good. Maybe a more lighthearted subject matter would be more forgiving to this author's writing authors otherwise I don't see myself trying another of their books.

[Tina Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Did enjoy it but there’s a lot of mistakes and it takes forever and a lot of misunderstandings for them to be together.

I did enjoy it but there’s a lot of issues with it. Danae was in an a abusive relationship which she managed to escape from, and she’s been on the run since then. Working cash in hand and barely escaping every time he finds her. When she’s sacked from her latest job for some bizarre reason Gabe feels responsible and offers her a live in job as a housekeeper. Erm what now? He offers a woman a job as a live in housekeeper that he’s only just met because he’s attracted to her! Danae has obvious trauma and I liked how Gabe writes her notes as he thinks it’ll be easier for her. As they get closer and have obvious feelings for each other it becomes really annoying as Gabe suddenly decides that Danae only wants to be friends. Even though she’s giving him all the signs she feels the same way he ignores them. 🙄

Eventually they get together and everything is perfect apart from Danae’s ex who hasn’t given up. Correct me if I’m wrong but a gated community is supposed to be really secure isn’t it? So I’m really confused how her ex manages to walk in and out of it! Things eventually come to a head and it’s beyond stupid how it happened! This part of the book is terrible as there’s way too many mistakes.

So the mistakes:
🔵 Danae hasn’t got a car, yet somehow manages to escape her ex, by WALKING TO THE BUS STOP! 😂😂😡😡
🔵 The ex is a psychotic killer according to Danae, yet he’s never investigated by the police?
A lot of the plot around her ex doesn’t make sense.
🔵 When Danae and Gabe finally get together they can’t have s*x as they don’t have any condoms. WHY CAN’T HE GO TO THE SHOP AND BUY SOME?
🔵 As they don’t have any condoms they decide to have a*al s*x instead, Erm so you can’t catch any diseases that way????? 😡😡😡😡 They don’t even discuss whether they’re both clean and tested!
🔵 Gabe doesn’t even know Danae’s actual name as she gave him a fake surname.
🔵 The biggest mistake is the climax to the danger with her ex. There’s no way that it could have happened!

I could go on but I won’t. So, yes it’s enjoyable but there’s a lot of mistakes.

[Kait · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like the end was a little bit anticlimactic, but overall it was a good book.

[Amanda Faye · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up. I started the series out of order but they're fun little pallet cleansers

[Diane · Rating 2 out of 5]

Gabe and Danae’s book starts out strong with an interesting premise, a sadistic cop taunting his abused ex-wife every time she runs and thinks she’s safe. Unfortunately the execution of the story leaves a lot to be desired as the suspense takes a backseat to lukewarm chemistry, repetitive themes, and unrealistic romance that falls flat.

[Alyse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabe Romero, Defensive player for the LA Wolves both on and off the field. On the field, Gabe is having an incredible season, and great deals to show for it. Off the field his defensive stance toward helping others reaches to his family and friends—and Danae, the unlucky waitress that gets fired in front of him.

Danae is on the run, literally and figuratively. Her violent ex-boyfriend is following her surreptitiously, and seems to have an uncanny ability to discover her location multiple times over the past 2 years. She feels unsettled and unsafe, always ready with a bag packed and a bus ticket to a new place with a new identity. When she literally runs into Gabe at a local bar, she is blamed for the incident and is fired . He, feeling responsible, hires her as his housekeeper to help her situation.

Danae can’t turn down her new offer—more money, separate accommodations and a gated community where it would be difficult for her ex to find her—until…

Whereas there are many romance books out there that touch on the topic of spousal/significant other abuse, I thought Defending the Backfield was well written and tasteful in its approach. The reader is introduced to Danae and her fears, which are wholly justified. We read about how Gabe, a true spirit of protectiveness wants to help, support and protect Danae. What I found most interesting is that Ms. Keys doesn’t “sugar coat” the issue nor allow the heroine to submit to the hero in his support—instead we learn about signs of abuse, how it happens and that standard “I’ll protect you” lines don’t always work; that restraining orders don’t restrain, they just alert the abuser to where the victim is residing. This is a disturbing topic, and unfortunately one that is more and more prevalent today.

Although the topic is difficult, the story is not. I’m not a football follower (go Bruins!) I was able to understand the game positions and terminology. It’s the story that is endearing and heartwarming, and how there may be bad people in the world, it doesn’t mean there is bad everywhere, and sometimes your just have to trust.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gabe and Danae’s book is the long awaited 5th book in Cadence Key’s LA Wolves series. I’m happy to say it was worth the wait. This book dealt with a heavy topic, but it was handled well and was positively balanced with what you would expect from a romance novel.

Gabe is a veteran professional football player on the LA Wolves. He’s done with the party scene and realizes he wants what his teammates have found: someone to love and share his life. He sees Danae on an outing with his teammates and is drawn to her immediately. Unfortunately theirs is not a meet cute and instead results in her losing her job. Gabe senses that she needs a break and offers her a job and a place to stay. Danae is on the run from her dangerous ex and doesn’t trust anyone. But with no other options, she accepts.

Gabe is a natural protector both on and off the field. Throughout the story he’s there for his teammates, family and Danae. He learns that he can be concerned but needs to be supportive not overbearing. I loved how from the start he knew he wanted more with Danae but also allowed their relationship to grow on her terms.

Danae has had a rough start in life. She tragically loses her mom early and things go from bad to worse when she gets together with her violent ex. She takes advantage of the opportunity given to her by working hard and slowly begins to trust and feel safe in her new life. They slowly build a relationship and when they get together physically, it’s quite spicy! Their first encounter had me blushing. They seem to have made it in spite of all of the obstacles. When her dangerous past reappears, will Danae stay and fight or revert to her prior self and run?

Defending the Backfield was an enjoyable read. It was well written and kept me turning the pages long after I should have gone to sleep! My thanks to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review. I look forward to reading more books about the rest of the players on the LA Wolves!

[Jeanne Jabour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cadence Keys is one of my all-time favorite authors who knows how to put together a truly enjoyable, exceedingly hot, and emotionally charged story that you will wish did not end. Her writing style is effortless to read and in her latest novel: Defending the Backfield, Ms. Keys handled the extremely disturbing and horrific subjects of domestic violence and stalking with extraordinary compassion and care, mindful of how even their mere mention can trigger victims. The tenderness and care of the male protagonist, Gabe Romero, a gigantically sized, solidly muscular professional football player at the peak of his athletic prowess, and how preciously he treats and protects Danae Badalyan, the stunningly beautiful woman that has been running from her abuser for the past eighteen months, will touch your heart so deeply you will be unable to hold back tears. Ms. Keys has crafted a wonderfully loving and supportive group of teammates with all sorts of flaws and foibles surrounding Gabe along with their wives and girlfriends, as well as an adorably large and very inquisitive extended family starting with his doting mother, two sisters, and grandparents, plus lots of aunts, uncles and cousins who ask Danae when their wedding date is and when are they having babies the first time they meet her. Luckily, she does not speak Spanish and has no clue what was being said. The reader will see smoke and flames rising from the pages of this novel based on the chemistry between Gabe and Danae, and the feelings they develop will fill your heart with a huge smile! DO NOT, under any circumstances, miss this read!!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall a good book. Well written, good characters and good development. This is the first book that I have read by Cadence Keys and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would say it is a 3.5 stars overall. It is a sports romance book but there isn't a ton of actual football action/involvement. You do get to know some of the other players which is nice. It really connects you to the team and want to see the stories for the other guys.

This book follows Gabe who is a famous football player is over the whole hook up scene and wants what some of his teammates are finding. The person who he can come home to at night. When he sees Danae at a club he is instantly drawn to her. Unfortunately he inadvertently gets her fired from a job she desperately needs. Danae is on the run from her abusive ex. She runs about every 2 months and works for cash under the table. When Gabe offers her a safe place to stay and work, she doesn't know if she can trust him but also doesn't have a lot of other options. Gabe knows Danae is skittish so he takes things very slow to earn her trust and just become acquaintances, friends and hopefully more. Things go great until their relationship becomes public in the media due to Gabe's job. Then all bets are off and Danae has to decide whether to run to protect the man she loves or stay and fight.

Overall a good read. Good characters and secondary characters.

[Reagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has been on my TBR for a while and I couldn't wait for it to be released!! Needless to say, I was thrilled when I received an ARC. And while I have enjoyed 1-4 of the LA Wolves, this one was perfection!! By far my favorite from the whole series!! I can't name 1 thing that I disliked or wished was different!! I absolutely loved Danae. She was such a great character. I loved how while her story and struggles were hard to read, she wasn't a damsel in distress nor was she overly independent. I'm not a fan of the heroine who is over the top with how she doesn't need a man or doesn't want to accept help from a man etc. But I equally don't like when the heroine is whiny and dramatic and scared of her own shadow. With all that said, Danae was perfectly written. And we can't forget about Gabe!! He was also perfect!! It was so refreshening how he obviously cherished Danae but it wasn't written in a "he's her doormat" kind of way. That drives me crazy!! In addition to the story and the characters being excellent, the SPICE was top tier!!! I hope Cadence continues the series! I can't wait to read more!!

[Joanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Best in this series

Book one in this series is by far the best, but that's not saying much. At least this one has a climactic ending. The others tend to just run on like an incredibly extended epilogue and then they just stop.

If you are a fan of instalove and no buildup, many graphic extended intimate scenes being some of the only scenes shown on the page instead of told, where everything is the men's fault, and where the men have to do dramatic gestures, then this is the series for you.

The women are all incredibly damaged which is nice to see represented on the page. However, all of the men are incredibly sweet and caring men that do everything they can to take care of these women, but inevitably do something minor that the women perceive as a grievous slight, and then they have to do a grand gesture to make it up to them.

I'm not fond of the premise of this book. It seems incredibly unlikely that the guy would hire her like that. The fact that he caught her eye across the room and she was so flustered she spilled drinks on a customer was not his fault in the slightest

I will not be reading any more from this author.

[Escape to the pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving the continuation of this series and excited to read about the defensive four.

Gabe knows what he wants and that’s what he sees in his offensive teammates lives. His true love and a family.
Meeting the gaze of Denae he gets a spark but how he goes about getting the girl makes for a fab read

A tough read to start with, Denae is trying to build a life sorrounded by half truths and secrecy because of her ex boyfriend. She struggles to let people in, until Gabe.

I liked how this story progressed and how their relationship developed and built up through the pages.

Twisty at times, I especially loved the team dynamics and how the four defensive team mates were so close and there for each other. Little hints of their back stories were dropped too so I’m excited for the stories to come

Now, what’s going on with Dom…bring on the next story

[NJGIRL · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It had everything you can ask for in a romance, a hot football player, a sweet heroine that is stronger than she thinks, and steamy chemistry between the two. Danae is running from an abusive ex, but he is playing a game of cat and mouse. He keeps finding her and taunting her with what his next actions will be. He hurts those around her, so although she loves her time with Gabe, she doesn’t want to endanger him by staying too long. But Gabe and Danae have so much chemistry; she wants to believe that maybe things will change and she can finally have her HEA. Although the topic of domestic abuse is covered, it does not overtake the story. There is still plenty of romance and laugh-out-loud moments, thanks to the supporting characters. Definitely read this book. You won’t regret it.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book with strong characters in Gabe and Danae. The author does a great job developing the story and building their relationship. She brings the heat along with all of the emotions as their story unfolds. It flows fluidly and is a terrific read.

This is a sweet and sexy good girl, preacher's daughter and bad boy insta love between Carter and Cadence. The author does a great job developing their relationship and shows her determination to prove he's not the bad gut everyone thinks he is. It's a well written short story, moves quickly and smoothly and is an enjoyable story.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Brianna Meyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first started this book it was hard to follow the characters as this is a 5th book in a series about football players and their wives/girlfriends and I have not read any of them. It was pretty difficult to keep track of who each character was in the book until I got further along. However, as the book progressed I was sucked into the story and interested in what happened to these characters as well as the secondary characters (can’t wait to see what happens to the rest of the defenders— friends to lovers story coming up I think?!?!). In this book Danae is running from an abusive ex and Gabe falls for her at first sight. It’s a sweet book despite the sad backstory. Nice satisfying HEA

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book, which continues telling the story of the LA Wolves football players.

Gabe meets Danae just as she gets fired, and he decides on the spot to offer her job. Of course, he is already interested in Danae, but he really is helping her just because he is a good guy. The two form a friendship, which eventually leads to romance. There is a bit of drama near the end of the books involving Danae’s abusive ex, but it is resolved fairly quickly.

One negative, which is my reasoning for the four star rating, is that the story is a bit slow. The two didn’t get together until about halfway through the book and I felt that was too slow.

I recommend this book and the other books in the series.

I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.

[tre.wandereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, I'll start by saying it wasn't really what I was expecting. I hadn't read the blurbs before reading the book and it was interesting that it wasn't just a typical boy meets girl sports romance. There are other issues that were tackled in the story and it's nice to see these be more out in the open.

Their love story starts out unusually and it's a matter of gaining the trust and the strength to keep each other until the end. Their chemistry was nice, character development was good. Fairly easy read so it was a nice pace for me. I like that the story doesn't just revolve completely around them and you get to know the world they are in, the community they have makes you feel like you are part of their world.

[Alix Bliffen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

I was not expecting the backstory for Danae to be so tragic and moving.

I was not expecting Gabe to be a giant, steady, strong, deeply caring man.

These two characters were written so beautifully that their missing pieces were blended together beautifully.

I am in awe of how Cadence wrote Gabe to be so understanding and moving at a snails pace just to get Danae to trust him. They connected on the steady foundation of boundaries and knowing when to ask questions and when to let silence speak for itself.

The ending was justice served, and I especially loved how Danae used her experience to let other women (and men too) that they are not alone and it is ok to speak up.

[Anna G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cadence did it again! What an amazing story.
Gabe is not your typical professional football player. He is not party person, he actually wants to settle down. Seeing the gorgeous waitress, he feels drawn to her. When unintentionally he gets her fired, Gabe offers her a job and a place to stay.
Danae is on the run from her abusive ex. When she gets fired from her job as waitress, Gabe offers her a place to stay and job.
The attraction between them is undeniable but would Danae let herself trust another man.
The previous books of LA Wolves series are amazing. I am so glad Cadence decided to continue with the series. Great read!
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free ARC.

[Catherine Winchester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cadence has done it again. Another great read amongst her LA Wolves series. Gabe is on the football team and is longing to find a wife as most of his buddies are married or have serious girlfriends. Along comes Danae, an unexpected hottie that just takes his breath away. When he hires her on the spot after watching her get fired from her latest job, he will soon learn how strong she's become and how tough her life has been due to a crazy ex boyfriend that won't leave her alone. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐as always. I love this series.

[Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just completely heart melting! It's a great story, there's all-consuming heat, fear, and several light hearted moments where you can't help but smile. But more than that Cadence Keys has put out a story that gives you two characters who absolutely deserve they're HEA and written them in such a way that you can't help but admire them and secretly compare every man on the planet to the insightful, patient, and insanely ripped man that is Gabe, while hoping you have half of the backbone and resilience of Danae. A book well worth reading and enjoyable from the first word to the last.

[Shawna Jimenez more.books.forever · Rating 5 out of 5]

My man Gabe!! I am so in love with him and Denae’s story. I loved how this man was tired of the party scene and ready to settle down I loved how he jumps in for Denae and instantly feels the pull to protect her and take care of her. The chemistry between these two is spot on. The new found family that Denae is brought into. I love how the guys have this amazing relationship and tease one another. Gabe’s family will melt your heart. This book will give you all the feels. Amazing read.

[Audi Walbridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danae and Gabe's story is beautiful.

Though a heavy topic to cover, Candence does such a good job. Danae, on the run from an abusive ex, unexpectedly meets Gabe, who automatically sees something special in her.

Watching Danae slowly learn she can trust someone else and allow herself to stay instead of run. Gabe, who is patient with her, who only wants to make her feel comfortable, and is a King that's able to admit when he's wrong and strive to be a better person.

❤️

[Heather Bondie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute! main issue is I don't like that he seems oblivious to normal things, him not understanding how he came off pushy with the job fair?? or his comment about if he could have stolen his friends girl he would have, I know it was meant as a compliment to the gf BUT I wasn't really a fan, like he might have just wanted someone and didn't matter who... idk that's why I gave 3 stars, was still a cute read tho!

[ashlee ❤ · Rating 5 out of 5]

-football romance
-her protector
-in hiding

Gabe & Danae were seriously so cute! The tension was BREWINGGGF & the way everyone called Gabe out every time was amazing! The plot created lots of anxiousness which I loved cause you knew it was moving along & it was still climatic without it being over the top!! Loveeeee!!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say, Cadence Keys is one of my all-time favorite authors! This story was truly captivating. Denae's struggles to let people in, but Gabe slowly breaks down her walls. The way their relationship developed and built up through the pages was just beautiful. I also loved the team dynamics, which added an extra layer of depth to the story. Overall, I highly recommend this book!

[Marsha Graniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Defending the Backfield is an amazing read!! Gabe and Danae’s story was like an emotional roller coaster. It pulled me in with how strong the characters are and the way they slowly started to trust each other. I can’t wait to read more by Keys.

I voluntarily leave an honest review of this Advanced Readers Copy.

[Julie Kay LeBlanc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Starting a new series because I can't get enough of Cadences books!!! Great story!

The only thing better than reading an awesome story is enjoying there are no editing errors. Fast, smooth reading, great well-described characters, perfect settings, tremendous smexy scenes, and the bad guy gets exactly what he deserves. Fantastic epilogue too!!!!!*****

[Heather Bonsell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice quick read

I enjoyed that the steam wasnt over the top. Also that the story flowed nicely without having that feeling of be rushed. Kind of wish the ex toyed with her more and with the mmc some. Just to really ramp up the anxiety. It was a good reset book from all the others I've read recently.

[frazzledhuman01 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

I’m not much on sports romances but loved this one since the focus was on the couple and not football. The author handles domestic violence tactfully—job well done! The plot, characters, emotions and suspense were all believable. The relationship between fmc/mmc grows and evolves into something beautiful. It is spicy but also incredibly sweet. Definitely recommend it.