Unexpected Goals

A funs tory with lots of heart as you have the enemies-to-lovers trope that works really well in this setting. I enjoyed revisiting some characters from previous books and seeing the growth of all of them on the pages :)

Jenny and I are a lot alike as I do not like drama with my romance (laugh). I really enjoyed Unexpected Goals. There is some drama but Kelly Farmer keeps it to a low key level which I appreciate.

I think what I appreciate the most about Farmer’s books is the variety of people. Jenny is not as involved as Amy is in the rainbow community, but within the hockey team itself there are a variety of humans who come from different countries, experiences, and with a common goal of playing a sport to the best of their ability. There is even the distasteful Renata who is all about the sport and you have to admire that even if you don’t agree with how she showcases her ambition. No one says that she isn’t a beast on the ice.

Farmer groups these athletes together and makes it work...even for enemies which is what Unexpected Goals is all about. I actually get both sides of the argument in which these two have battled since the Olympics. I also understand the desire to just move past an issue, but no one else is able to. Farmer has such a great handle on a delicate issue in society and applying it to such an important issue in sports.

Maisy is all about facts, figures, and safety. Who does not love that? Then add in that she is a vegan and you have perfection. Never mind that when Farmer had her do her stretching routine, I was just as hooked as Jenny.

As for Jenny, she is the perfect lesbian. I do not know what stereotype lesbian book she has been reading, but she can date me. I love flowers and candy. Light some candles for me please. Make me coffee every morning (now that had about every woman sit up and say “yes please” didn’t it?). Jenny is chill and goes with the flow. She speaks Italian and Spanish. She cooks. Her family is loud, boisterous, and filled with love. Did I mention she is artistic?

Farmer has created two women that anyone could easily fall for never mind an enemy. Unexpected Goals has feisty athletes, abuelas, and visits from previous characters. This is a feel good sports romance that makes you want to date at least one of them if not both ladies. Thank you Farmer, I needed this.

I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.