Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc!
I have to admit, I struggled a bit at the beginning because I’m not typically a sports romance gal and there was a lot of football talk at first. But I managed because I enjoyed how the story was really focused on this team and community coming together which is heartwarming. And the writing was nice too,
I’m glad I stuck with it because the characters and relationship once it really got going I just ate up completely so so so good.

Title: Playing the Field by Becky Ward

Release Date: June, 5th, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

Lily, a business student, is devastated when her local football club relocates, so she starts a new one, Crawford United, with her family. Ben, a suspended Premier League player, joins as a coach to rebuild his image.

Lily and Ben have instant chemistry, but their romance is forbidden by club rules. They secretly date, revealing Ben's softer side, but they face scrutiny from others. The will-they-won't-they tension surrounds their relationship as they navigate the challenges of love and football.

This book stole my heart! It's not just your typical sports romance; it brilliantly showcases the power of found family as the community rallies behind the team. The characters are absolutely delightful, and the sparks flying between Lily and Ben? Pure magic!


Thank you to The Publisher Avon Books UK | Avon , The Author Becky Ward & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

I love a good sport’s romance a this one was so well written! I loved the characters, storyline (love a good redemption story), and it was so enjoyable watching these two fall in love over the course of the novel. I have much more to share, but am recovering from an unexpected health issue and I promise to share more soon.

Lily & her family are devastated when her local football club relocates miles away. This leads to the creation of Crawford United, a team formed by her family. Ben Pryce, a professional footballer with a reputation as a 'bad boy', helps coach the team and quickly develops a deep connection with Lily. Despite breaking the rule of mixing business with pleasure, they embark on a secret romance filled with twists and turns.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book; it beautifully portrays the sense of 'found family' as the community bands together to support the team. The unique connection between Lily and Ben is palpable. While initially slow and heavily focused on football, the story soon becomes gripping, and the characters are easy to fall in love with. Fans of Ted Lasso will certainly appreciate this book!