THis is Meka James' first traditonally published book. I was a fan of her small town romances and when I read this description, I knew I had to read it. I love a sapphic book and this reminded me of Just Wright with a sapphic twist. Perfection

My husband is an athletic trainer so when I saw that this book had a protagonist who is an athletic trainer, I jumped at the opportunity to read it.

The book starts off with some hot and steamy chemistry between Dijah and Shae. I love it when books start off with a bang - it sets a great tone for the rest of the book.

All in all, I enjoyed this one, but I felt the storyline and the development of Dijah and Shae's relationship was a bit rushed. I felt like it ping ponged back and forth a bit without much depth to the story. It was enjoyable, but it also left me wanting more.

I liked that this book was a sports romance featuring a female athlete. We need more of these!

Steam level: 🔥🔥🔥

This was super cute and I enjoyed the playful banter between the two love interests. Interested to see more from this author.

A fun lighthearted romance that had me wanting more! I'm not a big sports person but basketball did not feel like the main part of the book at all and I loved the chemistry between Dijah and Shae. I am hoping there is a sequel to focus on some of the side characters of the book like Tina and Courtney,

I really enjoyed this! I am not a sports romance girly, so what better way to try one than one with lesbians? Khadijah's life plan, with milestones, and her resistance to giving up control felt very real. Shae second guessing herself and doubting Dijah's feelings as a result of that grip on control was a good reminder that we can get real caught up in our feelings and plans, and forget that relationships have two people. Both people need to feel comfortable, loved, heard, and supported in order to work. Then end felt a little fast, but still great fun.

I was so excited to see Meka James get a trad deal, as I’ve enjoyed her indie books, and I knew I had to get my hands on Love & Sportsball. This is a really fun, overall lighthearted romance. For a sports romance, the sports elements felt less centered than in others I’ve read (which isn’t a bad thing, and actually works really well with fact Dijah is not a sports person). I love the camaraderie and friendship with Shae and the Cannons team, and the ways they support one another and how Dijah gets folded into the team. The conflict also really fit Shae and Dijah’s personalities, and I love how things worked out in the end. This was such a fun read and I wonder if Courtney will be the next book - marriage in trouble, please and thank you!

Love and Sportsball by Meka James is an absolute delight! From the first page, I was hooked by James's superb writing style, which effortlessly keeps you engaged throughout the entire story. This sports romance is the perfect blend of steamy and sweet, featuring a fantastic opposites-attract trope with two incredibly different yet compelling main characters.

Khadijah Upton, an organized and focused athletic trainer, finds herself face-to-face with basketball star Shae Harris after a wildly sexy one-night stand. Shae is sweet, sexy, and patient, making it impossible for Khadijah to resist her charms. Their chemistry sizzles both on and off the court, and their dynamic kept me rooting for them from the very beginning.

James's attention to detail, from the songs in the club to the skating rink scene, adds a special touch that makes the book even more endearing. Dijah and Shae's journey is captivating, filled with heartfelt moments and intense passion. The side characters, from Khadijah's supportive family to Shae's loving relatives and the tight-knit team, added depth and relatability to the story, enriching the overall reading experience of this wonderful story.

I was thrilled to discover that this is the start of a series because I absolutely loved Tina and Courtney and can't wait to see their stories unfold. Consider me a loyal fan of the Atlanta Cannons and Meka James! *Love and Sportsball* is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted, steamy sports romance.

**Book Review: Love and Sports Ball by Meka James**

In *Love and Sports Ball*, Meka James masterfully crafts a steamy and sweet sapphic romance that effortlessly blends intense passion with deep emotional connection. The novel introduces us to Khadijah Upton, an athletic trainer whose dream job with the Atlanta Cannons takes an unexpected turn after a wild one-night stand with Shae Harris, a magnetic basketball star.

The chemistry between Khadijah and Shae is electric from their first encounter, and James skillfully develops their relationship against the high-stakes backdrop of professional sports. Khadijah's determination to maintain professional boundaries is challenged by Shae's vivacious personality and persistent charm, leading to a gripping push-and-pull dynamic that keeps readers eagerly turning pages.

James excels in portraying the complexities of navigating personal and professional lives, especially in the high-pressure world of sports. Khadijah’s internal struggles and Shae’s unapologetic zest for life create a compelling narrative that explores themes of vulnerability, trust, and self-discovery.

The novel's pacing is perfectly balanced, with moments of intense romantic tension interspersed with heartfelt revelations that deepen the protagonists’ connection. James's writing is vivid and engaging, making the sizzling bedroom scenes and the emotional highs and lows equally captivating.

*Love and Sports Ball* is a delightful and invigorating read, offering a refreshing take on romance that is both thrilling and profoundly satisfying. Meka James has delivered a standout story that will leave readers rooting for Khadijah and Shae both on and off the court.