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Playing the Field #5
Playing for Possession
“You don’t have to follow other people’s rules all the time.”
“And you don’t have to break them all the time either.”
Joanie
People assume Joanie’s a nepo baby, but they have no idea how hard she’s worked to get back on the pitch after injury.
She just wants to play football. The last thing she needs is to film an ad in Menorca with Kieran Earnshaw, the men’s team bad boy.
Kieran is gorgeous, though—and he seems different with her. Maybe it’s time this good girl finally experimented with her wild side…?
Kieran
Joanie’s dad is on the board. He’s warned Kieran off his daughter, but wants him to watch out for her on their trip. He can get Kieran on the England squad, his lifelong dream, so he’ll have to play by the rules—just this once.
Quiet Joanie likes to stay in the background. But Kieran’s realized anyone overlooking this woman is making a mistake. She’s the total package, beautiful inside and out.
He knows what he wants on and off the pitch—and he always plays to win. He’s risking everything, but sometimes opposites attract. And together, he reckons they could rewrite the whole rulebook…
Playing for Possession is the fifth book in the Playing the Field series―addictive romances full of heart and steam.
“And you don’t have to break them all the time either.”
Joanie
People assume Joanie’s a nepo baby, but they have no idea how hard she’s worked to get back on the pitch after injury.
She just wants to play football. The last thing she needs is to film an ad in Menorca with Kieran Earnshaw, the men’s team bad boy.
Kieran is gorgeous, though—and he seems different with her. Maybe it’s time this good girl finally experimented with her wild side…?
Kieran
Joanie’s dad is on the board. He’s warned Kieran off his daughter, but wants him to watch out for her on their trip. He can get Kieran on the England squad, his lifelong dream, so he’ll have to play by the rules—just this once.
Quiet Joanie likes to stay in the background. But Kieran’s realized anyone overlooking this woman is making a mistake. She’s the total package, beautiful inside and out.
He knows what he wants on and off the pitch—and he always plays to win. He’s risking everything, but sometimes opposites attract. And together, he reckons they could rewrite the whole rulebook…
Playing for Possession is the fifth book in the Playing the Field series―addictive romances full of heart and steam.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2025
54 people are currently reading
2770 people want to read
About the author
Sasha Lace
10 books180 followersSasha Lace used to be a very serious scientist before she ditched the lab coat and started writing kissing books. Sasha lives in the North of England and is a mom of two young boys. Everyone in her family is soccer mad, so she knows way more about soccer than she ever wanted to know. As a scientist and mom, her hobbies include: mulling over the complexities of the universe, treading barefoot on Lego, chipping dried Play-Doh from fabric surfaces, dried flower arranging (because you can’t kill something twice), and writing about herself in the third person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
October 14, 2025
4.5 stars for me .
Joanie getting better after her injury,and she's working hard to be ready to play again. She just wants to play football. She's not happy when she needs film an ad in Menorca with Kieran Earnshaw,the grumpy bad boy. Kieran is also not happy,the last thing he needs is to film an ad and babysitting Joanie.He was approached by Joanie dad,and if he make friends with her,Kieran have a chance to make a coach,which will get him to keep an eye on his brother Jake.Both travel with the wary feelings about each other,but what will happened when the discover they may actually be friends?
Will Joanie get out from her schell,and get what she wants?
Will Kieran find something that he was not looking for?
This book took me by surprise.I was expecting sport romance,but it was also tender,cute and hot. Joanie and Kieran were so good for each other,there was a friendship and connection that I liked.My first book by this author,and I hope to read more of her work.
If would recommend this book for sport romance with a spice fans.
Thank you netgalley and Montlake publisher for arc,the review is honest and my own.
Joanie getting better after her injury,and she's working hard to be ready to play again. She just wants to play football. She's not happy when she needs film an ad in Menorca with Kieran Earnshaw,the grumpy bad boy. Kieran is also not happy,the last thing he needs is to film an ad and babysitting Joanie.He was approached by Joanie dad,and if he make friends with her,Kieran have a chance to make a coach,which will get him to keep an eye on his brother Jake.Both travel with the wary feelings about each other,but what will happened when the discover they may actually be friends?
Will Joanie get out from her schell,and get what she wants?
Will Kieran find something that he was not looking for?
This book took me by surprise.I was expecting sport romance,but it was also tender,cute and hot. Joanie and Kieran were so good for each other,there was a friendship and connection that I liked.My first book by this author,and I hope to read more of her work.
If would recommend this book for sport romance with a spice fans.
Thank you netgalley and Montlake publisher for arc,the review is honest and my own.
October 15, 2025
I loved this story. Joanie and Kieran were thrown together during an ad campaign that forced them to spend time together. At first they were full of preconceived ideas of each other but it didn't take long for them to realize first impressions are not always accurate.
The characters came to life on the page, as in all of Sasha's books that I've read so far. They are relatable, realistic - including flaws, they make mistakes and Kieran is my new favorite male book MC.
Grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, forbidden, sports romance tropes - a few of my favorites.
The passion was real and didn't feel forced or unrealistic ( not introduced too soon or did not leave the reader questioning their connection).
Also the narrators were fabulous, which made the story even more enjoyable, if that's possible!
You don't want to miss a book in this series!
I was given an advanced copy and asked to give an honest review, which I am more than happy to provide.
The characters came to life on the page, as in all of Sasha's books that I've read so far. They are relatable, realistic - including flaws, they make mistakes and Kieran is my new favorite male book MC.
Grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, forbidden, sports romance tropes - a few of my favorites.
The passion was real and didn't feel forced or unrealistic ( not introduced too soon or did not leave the reader questioning their connection).
Also the narrators were fabulous, which made the story even more enjoyable, if that's possible!
You don't want to miss a book in this series!
I was given an advanced copy and asked to give an honest review, which I am more than happy to provide.
October 10, 2025
Joanie is a somewhat introverted professional soccer player on the women’s team, recovering from an ACL injury. Kieran is the bad boy on the men’s team with a reputation to match. When they’re both “volunteered” to film a drink commercial together, sparks fly. And when her dad promises Kieran a shot at the national team if he looks out for his daughter during the trip, things get even more complicated.
It’s a classic good girl/bad boy setup with plenty of potential, but most of the book takes place during their commercial shoot, with very little actual soccer content. The romance moves quickly and leans heavily toward insta-love, with quite a few cringey moments and without enough emotional buildup to make the connection feel earned. The dual POV works well and the forced proximity trope delivers some fun moments, but the dialogue sometimes felt unnatural, and the extended inner monologues occasionally pulled me out of the story.
Overall, this is a predictable, but familiar romance that plays with tried-and-true tropes — nothing groundbreaking, but easy to read and light-hearted. Read this if you’re looking for a quick, feel-good romance with a good girl meets bad boy dynamic and a sporty backdrop (even if the soccer takes a back seat)!
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK, Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
It’s a classic good girl/bad boy setup with plenty of potential, but most of the book takes place during their commercial shoot, with very little actual soccer content. The romance moves quickly and leans heavily toward insta-love, with quite a few cringey moments and without enough emotional buildup to make the connection feel earned. The dual POV works well and the forced proximity trope delivers some fun moments, but the dialogue sometimes felt unnatural, and the extended inner monologues occasionally pulled me out of the story.
Overall, this is a predictable, but familiar romance that plays with tried-and-true tropes — nothing groundbreaking, but easy to read and light-hearted. Read this if you’re looking for a quick, feel-good romance with a good girl meets bad boy dynamic and a sporty backdrop (even if the soccer takes a back seat)!
Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK, Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 27, 2025
Thank you Sasha Lace and Netgalley for this incredible arc!!
Story follows injured professional soccer player Joanie and pro player Kieran getting matched up for an ad and the rest was history!!
For a soccer romance I wasn’t sure what to expect and this didn’t fail to deliver!! So many tropes were in this book including virgin fmc and I absoltely adored it. Had me laughing too!! I got a bit confused with some of the characters names (purely because of my bad memory not the book) but apart from that, this book was amazing and I can’t wait to go back and read the earlier books!!!
Story follows injured professional soccer player Joanie and pro player Kieran getting matched up for an ad and the rest was history!!
For a soccer romance I wasn’t sure what to expect and this didn’t fail to deliver!! So many tropes were in this book including virgin fmc and I absoltely adored it. Had me laughing too!! I got a bit confused with some of the characters names (purely because of my bad memory not the book) but apart from that, this book was amazing and I can’t wait to go back and read the earlier books!!!
November 6, 2025
You won't catch me watching football but you'll definitely catch me reading books with football playing characters. It was great to be back with The Calverdale bunch.
This time we meet Joanie, she's forever tried to hide in background what with being a rockstars daughter all she really wants to do is play football. After being off the pitch for 9 months due to an injury she's finds herself being sent to Menorca to film an Ad campaign. However she isn't going to be alone. From Calverdale men's team Kieran the 'thug' has to film too despite his protests. However Joanies dad has tasked him with one job - keep his daughter safe and his hands off her.
What I loved is that the characters are relatable, they come with their flaws, fears, anxiety's and this made it so easy to connect with them. Both Joanie and Kieran had preconceived opinions on each other but it really didnt take long once they spent time together for them to have a different impression. Their connection gently built and although there was passion in abundance none of it felt awkward or forced.
Some fantastic tropes included in the story such as grumpy / sunshine, forbidden love, and forced proximity.
Yes this is a sports romance however it's not just centered on the pitch and I have loved that about all of Sashas books. So much depth and emotion to all the books in this series.
Definitely could be read as a standalone but I think better to be read in order as some characters do overlap in between the books. Can't recommend enough.
This time we meet Joanie, she's forever tried to hide in background what with being a rockstars daughter all she really wants to do is play football. After being off the pitch for 9 months due to an injury she's finds herself being sent to Menorca to film an Ad campaign. However she isn't going to be alone. From Calverdale men's team Kieran the 'thug' has to film too despite his protests. However Joanies dad has tasked him with one job - keep his daughter safe and his hands off her.
What I loved is that the characters are relatable, they come with their flaws, fears, anxiety's and this made it so easy to connect with them. Both Joanie and Kieran had preconceived opinions on each other but it really didnt take long once they spent time together for them to have a different impression. Their connection gently built and although there was passion in abundance none of it felt awkward or forced.
Some fantastic tropes included in the story such as grumpy / sunshine, forbidden love, and forced proximity.
Yes this is a sports romance however it's not just centered on the pitch and I have loved that about all of Sashas books. So much depth and emotion to all the books in this series.
Definitely could be read as a standalone but I think better to be read in order as some characters do overlap in between the books. Can't recommend enough.
October 11, 2025
Joanie is the daughter of a rock and roll legend, but she's the last one to step into the spotlight. Unless it comes to her soccer career. And now they're requiring her to make a commercial with Kieran, the bad boy of Calverdale's men's team.
Kieran is the last man Joanie's dad wants her in a relationship with, but as a member of the board, he promises him a spot on the national team if he'll look out for Joanie on their trip but not try anything with her. The longer they spend together, he starts to realize this woman is worth risking everything for.
I've enjoyed my binge reading through the series after I received an arc of this book. Kieran is such a troubled, serious character and it was great to see him open up to Joanie, and then he helps her gain confidence and speak up for herself. This was a vacation away from the soccer pitch while the two are in Menorca, and it was fun to see them relax away from the pressure of the team. I'm looking forward to seeing what this series brings next.
I received a complimentary arc of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Kieran is the last man Joanie's dad wants her in a relationship with, but as a member of the board, he promises him a spot on the national team if he'll look out for Joanie on their trip but not try anything with her. The longer they spend together, he starts to realize this woman is worth risking everything for.
I've enjoyed my binge reading through the series after I received an arc of this book. Kieran is such a troubled, serious character and it was great to see him open up to Joanie, and then he helps her gain confidence and speak up for herself. This was a vacation away from the soccer pitch while the two are in Menorca, and it was fun to see them relax away from the pressure of the team. I'm looking forward to seeing what this series brings next.
I received a complimentary arc of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 14, 2025
arc review
"If you need to speak up for yourself, it doesn't mean you're demanding, or entitled, or a problem. You get to take up space in this world."
I loved this one so much! Kieran and Joanie were so cute together; it was insane.
Their story had such an interesting beginning and I loved every second of it. The way Kieran supported Joanie in her road back to the field? Chef's kiss!
The way the plot developed and things came to a head near the end kind of broke my heart, but luckily we can always count on a happily ever after (once all the lies are cleared up ofcourse) (I also wasn't mad at a certain character getting his backside handed to him).
Another lovely story by Sasha Lace! 🥰
"If you need to speak up for yourself, it doesn't mean you're demanding, or entitled, or a problem. You get to take up space in this world."
I loved this one so much! Kieran and Joanie were so cute together; it was insane.
Their story had such an interesting beginning and I loved every second of it. The way Kieran supported Joanie in her road back to the field? Chef's kiss!
The way the plot developed and things came to a head near the end kind of broke my heart, but luckily we can always count on a happily ever after (once all the lies are cleared up ofcourse) (I also wasn't mad at a certain character getting his backside handed to him).
Another lovely story by Sasha Lace! 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2026
2.5/5⭐
2/5♥️
2/5🔥
Siento que fue el más flojo de todos los libros, me gustó por que van a menorca pero también tengo que decir que la autora podría haber buscado mejores frases y frases realistas que decir porque nunca he escuchado a nadie decir "dame una pinta de cerveza", tampoco sé mucho de cerveza pero eso en mi vida lo he escuchado.
Muy feliz porque por fin sean le pasa algo que se merece!
Ranking: 4-2-3-1-5
2/5♥️
2/5🔥
Siento que fue el más flojo de todos los libros, me gustó por que van a menorca pero también tengo que decir que la autora podría haber buscado mejores frases y frases realistas que decir porque nunca he escuchado a nadie decir "dame una pinta de cerveza", tampoco sé mucho de cerveza pero eso en mi vida lo he escuchado.
Muy feliz porque por fin sean le pasa algo que se merece!
Ranking: 4-2-3-1-5
February 20, 2026
Where to start? Joanie is coming back from a big injury and Kieran has an awful reputation, what better pairing could there be? Throughout the book they lean on each other and learn more about each other eventually overcoming things they have been struggling with (deliberately vague so no spoilers). I liked the chance to explore their personalities away from the limelight, and the fact it showed that your preconceived idea of someone isn't necessarily the way they are.
Generally, it was a cute book and I really enjoyed reading it. It's great for people who like a sports romance, the grumpy x sunshine trope and the forced proximity trope too. Would recommend and I look forward to reading others in this series too!
Generally, it was a cute book and I really enjoyed reading it. It's great for people who like a sports romance, the grumpy x sunshine trope and the forced proximity trope too. Would recommend and I look forward to reading others in this series too!
August 20, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed the previous books in this series of standalones. And this was no exception. This book was deliciously delightful, sweet and spicy, and remarkably insightful. This is definitely not only a sports themed romance, this is so much more.
Two individuals, both exceptional football players (soccer for US readers), have issues that are tough to shrug off. Joanie has a big chip on her shoulder, not only is she dealing with a devastating injury, she's also trying to shrug off the "entitled daddy's little girl" image everyone seems to have painted her with. Not easy when daddy happens to be a famous musician. Kieran is an outsider, he's a brilliant player, but he's painted with the same brush as HIS daddy. But that's not who Kieran is, his daddy is all kinds of awful. Walking out awful. Jail bird awful. So one is withdrawn, the other very abrasive. After a devastating injury, Joanie is slowly recovering but her self worth has gone to the dogs. Sasha Lace handles the insecurity and fear very delicately, realistically and with great sensitivity. She doesn't downplay how traumatic it is, nor does she skirt around the truth. The whole misconception by both Joanie and Kieran is spot on, heck, reputations are a thing, even if we try to ignore them.
Neither Joanie nor Kieran wanted to do a commercial but both were bamboozled into it so off they jet to Spain, where both get to see another side of the other, the real person behind the facade. And that's when things get...complicated...Oh golly do I love the effect Kieran has on Joanie! SUCH an effort that she's "compelled" to "reading" on her own. I giggled big time when Kieran told her, "I'm just across the landing, if you want help with your... reading, give me a knock". The build up to an incredibly steamy balcony scene was an inferno! Scorching! I'd be "reading" too!!!
Ms Lace is exceptional at characterisation, the MCs without a doubt were exceptional but so too were the supporting cast. Mortimer Fox, bless his heart, a rocker who's trying to make amends after being papa invisible for years, actually got my sympathy mode on. As did Ollie and Jack, trying to be "normal". One can't have a book without a villain right? Well, Ms Lace presented us with Sean and all his entitiled, biased and vile persona, I wanted to climb into him, fists blazing! I felt Joanie to my core, I absolutely adored her, her entire life was like a splinter burrowed under her skin, one she couldn't get out. But slowly, with the help of her fellow teammates, thanks to a very different bucket list that had me hooting, and Kieran, she unravels her tightly wound petals and opens up like a rose in bloom. What a warm feeling the author evoked seeing this transformation but she also threw a spanner in the works...a few actually.
Kieran is the perfect gentleman, ok, he's the perfect harda*se, but he has reason to be. His upbringing made him super aware, super responsible. His dedication and love for his brother was awesome, non judgemental and Ms Lace truly captures his need to look out for his brother. Everything he does is because of Jack, even the awful commercial and I adored his protectiveness. Even his dream of playing for his country is put on the back burner for Jack. And then Joanie awakens something Kieran never knew was even in him and oh boy did I enjoy seeing it, watching it grow. I loved the insight the author gave us on both the characters, I felt like I knew them, like we'd been friends forever.
This author presented a well rounded and beautiful rendition of getting to let go, of being who one is destined to be and overcoming past painful events with sensitivity. Capturing all the pitfalls of secrets and releasing them with shattering effects. This book was all about embracing oneself, renewel, second chances, learning to trust, breaking down of walls one has erected and that sometimes what one assumes, couldn't be further from the truth. A beautiful book with a beautiful HEA.
Two individuals, both exceptional football players (soccer for US readers), have issues that are tough to shrug off. Joanie has a big chip on her shoulder, not only is she dealing with a devastating injury, she's also trying to shrug off the "entitled daddy's little girl" image everyone seems to have painted her with. Not easy when daddy happens to be a famous musician. Kieran is an outsider, he's a brilliant player, but he's painted with the same brush as HIS daddy. But that's not who Kieran is, his daddy is all kinds of awful. Walking out awful. Jail bird awful. So one is withdrawn, the other very abrasive. After a devastating injury, Joanie is slowly recovering but her self worth has gone to the dogs. Sasha Lace handles the insecurity and fear very delicately, realistically and with great sensitivity. She doesn't downplay how traumatic it is, nor does she skirt around the truth. The whole misconception by both Joanie and Kieran is spot on, heck, reputations are a thing, even if we try to ignore them.
Neither Joanie nor Kieran wanted to do a commercial but both were bamboozled into it so off they jet to Spain, where both get to see another side of the other, the real person behind the facade. And that's when things get...complicated...Oh golly do I love the effect Kieran has on Joanie! SUCH an effort that she's "compelled" to "reading" on her own. I giggled big time when Kieran told her, "I'm just across the landing, if you want help with your... reading, give me a knock". The build up to an incredibly steamy balcony scene was an inferno! Scorching! I'd be "reading" too!!!
Ms Lace is exceptional at characterisation, the MCs without a doubt were exceptional but so too were the supporting cast. Mortimer Fox, bless his heart, a rocker who's trying to make amends after being papa invisible for years, actually got my sympathy mode on. As did Ollie and Jack, trying to be "normal". One can't have a book without a villain right? Well, Ms Lace presented us with Sean and all his entitiled, biased and vile persona, I wanted to climb into him, fists blazing! I felt Joanie to my core, I absolutely adored her, her entire life was like a splinter burrowed under her skin, one she couldn't get out. But slowly, with the help of her fellow teammates, thanks to a very different bucket list that had me hooting, and Kieran, she unravels her tightly wound petals and opens up like a rose in bloom. What a warm feeling the author evoked seeing this transformation but she also threw a spanner in the works...a few actually.
Kieran is the perfect gentleman, ok, he's the perfect harda*se, but he has reason to be. His upbringing made him super aware, super responsible. His dedication and love for his brother was awesome, non judgemental and Ms Lace truly captures his need to look out for his brother. Everything he does is because of Jack, even the awful commercial and I adored his protectiveness. Even his dream of playing for his country is put on the back burner for Jack. And then Joanie awakens something Kieran never knew was even in him and oh boy did I enjoy seeing it, watching it grow. I loved the insight the author gave us on both the characters, I felt like I knew them, like we'd been friends forever.
This author presented a well rounded and beautiful rendition of getting to let go, of being who one is destined to be and overcoming past painful events with sensitivity. Capturing all the pitfalls of secrets and releasing them with shattering effects. This book was all about embracing oneself, renewel, second chances, learning to trust, breaking down of walls one has erected and that sometimes what one assumes, couldn't be further from the truth. A beautiful book with a beautiful HEA.
November 1, 2025
ARC provided by NetGalley and Montlake Publishers — all opinions are my own.
Let me start by saying — this was my first Sasha Lace book, but definitely not my last. Playing for Possession is book five in the Playing the Field series, and while it absolutely works as a standalone, it left me so hooked that I plan to binge the earlier books before the end of the month.
As someone who adores a well-written sports romance, this book had everything I love — the high-stakes athletic world, emotional depth, witty banter, and yes, plenty of chemistry and spice. It was the perfect blend of heartfelt vulnerability and playful heat, making it an utterly addictive read.
The story follows Joanie, a dedicated footballer (soccer player for my fellow non-Brits!) who’s fighting her way back after a serious injury. All she wants is to get back on the pitch and prove herself again. Instead, she’s roped into filming a commercial in Menorca — an assignment she’s far from thrilled about — especially when she finds out she’ll be working alongside Kieran Earnshaw, the Premier League’s notorious bad boy.
Kieran has a reputation for being talented, temperamental, and completely uninterested in playing by anyone’s rules. The last thing he wants is to babysit a recovering player with a famous rock star dad… but when that same dad dangles an opportunity Kieran can’t refuse, he reluctantly agrees.
Cue a sun-drenched island, forced proximity, snarky one-liners, undeniable attraction, and the slow unraveling of two people who are much more alike than they realize.
What I loved most was how Sasha Lace balances the fun and flirty tone with genuine emotional layers. Joanie’s struggles with self-doubt, recovery, and identity as an athlete felt real and relatable. Kieran, despite his brooding exterior, is charmingly soft-hearted once his walls come down — and watching that transformation was incredibly satisfying. Their chemistry sparkles from page one, but it’s their friendship and mutual respect that make this romance so rewarding.
Tropes and vibes galore:
⚽️ Dual athlete romance
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🛌 Forced proximity (hello, Menorca!)
🔥 He falls first (and hard!)
💋 Virgin FMC & spicy “to-do list”
💔 Forbidden romance/family interference
💞 Emotional healing + found connection
The narrators, Evelyn Rose and Rhys Wright, deserve a shoutout — their performances were fantastic. The accents, emotion, and tone brought the characters fully to life and made the audiobook experience pure escapism.
What worked beautifully:
Deep character development — both Joanie and Kieran have believable emotional arcs.
Their banter and tension were on point — equal parts funny, sexy, and heartfelt.
The setting (Menorca, training grounds, football culture) added such immersive detail.
The supporting cast — Mortimer, Ramirez, Jack, Ollie, Sean — felt like a found family that enriched the story.
That said, Playing for Possession completely won me over. It’s a tender, flirty, emotionally grounded story about healing, trust, and finding love when you least expect it. Sasha Lace has a writing style that’s both easy to devour and full of charm — she captures the emotional nuance of athletes under pressure while still giving us that delicious escapist romance we crave.
If you love sports romances that mix playful banter with emotional growth, sizzling tension, and a healthy dose of British wit, Playing for Possession is absolutely worth picking up.
Thank you again to NetGalley and Montlake Publishers for the ARC — this review is honest and entirely my own.
Let me start by saying — this was my first Sasha Lace book, but definitely not my last. Playing for Possession is book five in the Playing the Field series, and while it absolutely works as a standalone, it left me so hooked that I plan to binge the earlier books before the end of the month.
As someone who adores a well-written sports romance, this book had everything I love — the high-stakes athletic world, emotional depth, witty banter, and yes, plenty of chemistry and spice. It was the perfect blend of heartfelt vulnerability and playful heat, making it an utterly addictive read.
The story follows Joanie, a dedicated footballer (soccer player for my fellow non-Brits!) who’s fighting her way back after a serious injury. All she wants is to get back on the pitch and prove herself again. Instead, she’s roped into filming a commercial in Menorca — an assignment she’s far from thrilled about — especially when she finds out she’ll be working alongside Kieran Earnshaw, the Premier League’s notorious bad boy.
Kieran has a reputation for being talented, temperamental, and completely uninterested in playing by anyone’s rules. The last thing he wants is to babysit a recovering player with a famous rock star dad… but when that same dad dangles an opportunity Kieran can’t refuse, he reluctantly agrees.
Cue a sun-drenched island, forced proximity, snarky one-liners, undeniable attraction, and the slow unraveling of two people who are much more alike than they realize.
What I loved most was how Sasha Lace balances the fun and flirty tone with genuine emotional layers. Joanie’s struggles with self-doubt, recovery, and identity as an athlete felt real and relatable. Kieran, despite his brooding exterior, is charmingly soft-hearted once his walls come down — and watching that transformation was incredibly satisfying. Their chemistry sparkles from page one, but it’s their friendship and mutual respect that make this romance so rewarding.
Tropes and vibes galore:
⚽️ Dual athlete romance
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🛌 Forced proximity (hello, Menorca!)
🔥 He falls first (and hard!)
💋 Virgin FMC & spicy “to-do list”
💔 Forbidden romance/family interference
💞 Emotional healing + found connection
The narrators, Evelyn Rose and Rhys Wright, deserve a shoutout — their performances were fantastic. The accents, emotion, and tone brought the characters fully to life and made the audiobook experience pure escapism.
What worked beautifully:
Deep character development — both Joanie and Kieran have believable emotional arcs.
Their banter and tension were on point — equal parts funny, sexy, and heartfelt.
The setting (Menorca, training grounds, football culture) added such immersive detail.
The supporting cast — Mortimer, Ramirez, Jack, Ollie, Sean — felt like a found family that enriched the story.
That said, Playing for Possession completely won me over. It’s a tender, flirty, emotionally grounded story about healing, trust, and finding love when you least expect it. Sasha Lace has a writing style that’s both easy to devour and full of charm — she captures the emotional nuance of athletes under pressure while still giving us that delicious escapist romance we crave.
If you love sports romances that mix playful banter with emotional growth, sizzling tension, and a healthy dose of British wit, Playing for Possession is absolutely worth picking up.
Thank you again to NetGalley and Montlake Publishers for the ARC — this review is honest and entirely my own.
December 8, 2025
📚Playing for Possession
✍🏻Sasha Lace
Blurb:
“You don’t have to follow other people’s rules all the time.”
“And you don’t have to break them all the time either.”
Joanie
People assume Joanie’s a nepo baby, but they have no idea how hard she’s worked to get back on the pitch after injury.
She just wants to play football. The last thing she needs is to film an ad in Menorca with Kieran Earnshaw, the men’s team bad boy.
Kieran is gorgeous, though—and he seems different with her. Maybe it’s time this good girl finally experimented with her wild side…?
Kieran
Joanie’s dad is on the board. He’s warned Kieran off his daughter, but wants him to watch out for her on their trip. He can get Kieran on the England squad, his lifelong dream, so he’ll have to play by the rules—just this once.
Quiet Joanie likes to stay in the background. But Kieran’s realized anyone overlooking this woman is making a mistake. She’s the total package, beautiful inside and out.
He knows what he wants on and off the pitch—and he always plays to win. He’s risking everything, but sometimes opposites attract. And together, he reckons they could rewrite the whole rulebook…
Playing for Possession is the fifth book in the Playing the Field series―addictive romances full of heart and steam.
My Thoughts:
Playing for Possession by Sasha Lace is a contemporary sports romance that blends elements of workplace tension with familiar romance tropes. At its heart, the story follows a professional footballer, Joanie, who must balance her career struggles with her developing relationship with the male lead, Kieran. The novel incorporates several popular romance tropes such as forced proximity. With a mix of romance, light drama, and a touch of spice, it your typical contemporary romance.
This time we meet Joanie, she's forever tried to hide in background what with being a rockstars daughter all she really wants to do is play football. After being off the pitch for 9 months due to an injury she's finds herself being sent to Menorca to film an Ad campaign. However she isn't going to be alone. From Calverdale men's team Kieran the 'thug' has to film too despite his protests. However Joanies dad has tasked him with one job - keep his daughter safe and his hands off her.
What I loved is that the characters are relatable, they come with their flaws, fears, anxiety's and this made it so easy to connect with them. Both Joanie and Kieran had preconceived opinions on each other but it really didnt take long once they spent time together for them to have a different impression. Their connection gently built and although there was passion in abundance none of it felt awkward or force
♥️ Opposites Attract
♥️Bad Boy x Good Girl👧🧒
♥️Football Players 🏈
♥️Sports Romance💝
♥️Forced Proximity
Thanks NetGalley, Montlake and Author Sasha Lace for the advanced copy of "Playing for Possession" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation,
#NetGalley
#Montlake
#SashaLace
#PlayingforPossession
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Sasha Lace
Blurb:
“You don’t have to follow other people’s rules all the time.”
“And you don’t have to break them all the time either.”
Joanie
People assume Joanie’s a nepo baby, but they have no idea how hard she’s worked to get back on the pitch after injury.
She just wants to play football. The last thing she needs is to film an ad in Menorca with Kieran Earnshaw, the men’s team bad boy.
Kieran is gorgeous, though—and he seems different with her. Maybe it’s time this good girl finally experimented with her wild side…?
Kieran
Joanie’s dad is on the board. He’s warned Kieran off his daughter, but wants him to watch out for her on their trip. He can get Kieran on the England squad, his lifelong dream, so he’ll have to play by the rules—just this once.
Quiet Joanie likes to stay in the background. But Kieran’s realized anyone overlooking this woman is making a mistake. She’s the total package, beautiful inside and out.
He knows what he wants on and off the pitch—and he always plays to win. He’s risking everything, but sometimes opposites attract. And together, he reckons they could rewrite the whole rulebook…
Playing for Possession is the fifth book in the Playing the Field series―addictive romances full of heart and steam.
My Thoughts:
Playing for Possession by Sasha Lace is a contemporary sports romance that blends elements of workplace tension with familiar romance tropes. At its heart, the story follows a professional footballer, Joanie, who must balance her career struggles with her developing relationship with the male lead, Kieran. The novel incorporates several popular romance tropes such as forced proximity. With a mix of romance, light drama, and a touch of spice, it your typical contemporary romance.
This time we meet Joanie, she's forever tried to hide in background what with being a rockstars daughter all she really wants to do is play football. After being off the pitch for 9 months due to an injury she's finds herself being sent to Menorca to film an Ad campaign. However she isn't going to be alone. From Calverdale men's team Kieran the 'thug' has to film too despite his protests. However Joanies dad has tasked him with one job - keep his daughter safe and his hands off her.
What I loved is that the characters are relatable, they come with their flaws, fears, anxiety's and this made it so easy to connect with them. Both Joanie and Kieran had preconceived opinions on each other but it really didnt take long once they spent time together for them to have a different impression. Their connection gently built and although there was passion in abundance none of it felt awkward or force
♥️ Opposites Attract
♥️Bad Boy x Good Girl👧🧒
♥️Football Players 🏈
♥️Sports Romance💝
♥️Forced Proximity
Thanks NetGalley, Montlake and Author Sasha Lace for the advanced copy of "Playing for Possession" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation,
#NetGalley
#Montlake
#SashaLace
#PlayingforPossession
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 28, 2025
The Calverdale world is one I always love returning to, for so many reasons. It's a soccer based setting, so that is a little uncommon, and always provides a guarantee of fun, enthralling circumstances and challenges for protagonists while delivering the zing that makes a book an un-put-down-able experience.
Ms Lace consistently crafts amazing characters; ones I like, or loath (!) from the beginning of each book. They are amazing to follow as they progress from who they are on page one to who they really want and need to be by the final page. I love that growth! Watching as they find themselves, push themselves, allow themselves the space to heal, is always a gift.
Joanie and Kieran are key players in their soccer teams, but this is much more than a story of pro-athletes sprinting along sporting fields. These two are at the centre of a real character driven tale and are a unique pairing in this series, as well as in the literary sphere. It's almost Austen-esque, watching as the protagonists make the journey from assumptions like "nepo baby" and "dirty player" to something ....... else. There are intense action-filled soccer scenes, sure, but the precious alone time Ms Lace has given Joanie and Kieran on a plane and in a holiday house is really what let me see them as real and feel the genuine growing attachment between them; it became a romance based on personal truth. The humour and banter that is threaded superbly through their relationship really elevates this connection for me, showing a bond and empathy that are incredibly satisfying to watch. I love their integrity, bravery and values.
Ms Lace writes family brilliantly. It touches my heart to see the protectiveness between siblings and the flawed parents who try to do their best. The found family arc is a strong and heartwarming facet of these stories and that is an important element for me. The support the players always show each other is a wonderful foundation for the safe space that is Calverdale.
I really appreciate the significant role given to a rainbow character. I think the more positive exposure given to the LGBTIQA+ community the better and I applaud Ms Lace for not making token representation.
This is a beautifully written story of self-discovery, learning to trust and connection. Sasha Lace is a gift to the world of writing and I devour each of her books, always eager for more. As always, highly recommended.
Ms Lace consistently crafts amazing characters; ones I like, or loath (!) from the beginning of each book. They are amazing to follow as they progress from who they are on page one to who they really want and need to be by the final page. I love that growth! Watching as they find themselves, push themselves, allow themselves the space to heal, is always a gift.
Joanie and Kieran are key players in their soccer teams, but this is much more than a story of pro-athletes sprinting along sporting fields. These two are at the centre of a real character driven tale and are a unique pairing in this series, as well as in the literary sphere. It's almost Austen-esque, watching as the protagonists make the journey from assumptions like "nepo baby" and "dirty player" to something ....... else. There are intense action-filled soccer scenes, sure, but the precious alone time Ms Lace has given Joanie and Kieran on a plane and in a holiday house is really what let me see them as real and feel the genuine growing attachment between them; it became a romance based on personal truth. The humour and banter that is threaded superbly through their relationship really elevates this connection for me, showing a bond and empathy that are incredibly satisfying to watch. I love their integrity, bravery and values.
Ms Lace writes family brilliantly. It touches my heart to see the protectiveness between siblings and the flawed parents who try to do their best. The found family arc is a strong and heartwarming facet of these stories and that is an important element for me. The support the players always show each other is a wonderful foundation for the safe space that is Calverdale.
I really appreciate the significant role given to a rainbow character. I think the more positive exposure given to the LGBTIQA+ community the better and I applaud Ms Lace for not making token representation.
This is a beautifully written story of self-discovery, learning to trust and connection. Sasha Lace is a gift to the world of writing and I devour each of her books, always eager for more. As always, highly recommended.
September 20, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Overview
Playing for Possession by Sasha Lace is a contemporary sports romance that blends elements of workplace tension with familiar romance tropes. At its heart, the story follows a professional footballer, Joanie, who must balance her career struggles with her developing relationship with the male lead, Kieran. The novel incorporates several popular romance tropes such as forced proximity. With a mix of romance, light drama, and a touch of spice, it your typical contemporary romance.
My Thoughts
This was a fairly cliché romance with a predictable story arc, leaning heavily on tried-and-true romance tropes. While these can be enjoyable, here they felt a little too formulaic, which left me without much yearning to know what happened next.
The unique aspect of this book was its sports angle, particularly the female lead being a professional footballer. I appreciated this fresh perspective, but it wasn’t explored as much as I had hoped. Aside from her internal fear of returning to the pitch and two short football scenes, the sporting element was largely sidelined. This was disappointing, especially since the novel opens with a dedication the Lionesses football club, which set me up to expect a stronger focus on women in professional sport.
That said, as a romance, it delivers what many readers are looking for: a quick, easy read with some spice and a central love story. While it didn’t break new ground or stick with me beyond the final page, it works well as a light romance read especially if you enjoy familiar tropes and don’t mind predictability.
Overall, an okay romance that doesn’t fully use its premise but offers a short and enjoyable escape. If you prefer your romances without spice, you might want to skip this one.
Overview
Playing for Possession by Sasha Lace is a contemporary sports romance that blends elements of workplace tension with familiar romance tropes. At its heart, the story follows a professional footballer, Joanie, who must balance her career struggles with her developing relationship with the male lead, Kieran. The novel incorporates several popular romance tropes such as forced proximity. With a mix of romance, light drama, and a touch of spice, it your typical contemporary romance.
My Thoughts
This was a fairly cliché romance with a predictable story arc, leaning heavily on tried-and-true romance tropes. While these can be enjoyable, here they felt a little too formulaic, which left me without much yearning to know what happened next.
The unique aspect of this book was its sports angle, particularly the female lead being a professional footballer. I appreciated this fresh perspective, but it wasn’t explored as much as I had hoped. Aside from her internal fear of returning to the pitch and two short football scenes, the sporting element was largely sidelined. This was disappointing, especially since the novel opens with a dedication the Lionesses football club, which set me up to expect a stronger focus on women in professional sport.
That said, as a romance, it delivers what many readers are looking for: a quick, easy read with some spice and a central love story. While it didn’t break new ground or stick with me beyond the final page, it works well as a light romance read especially if you enjoy familiar tropes and don’t mind predictability.
Overall, an okay romance that doesn’t fully use its premise but offers a short and enjoyable escape. If you prefer your romances without spice, you might want to skip this one.
Read
October 17, 2025Playing for Possession by Sasha Lace
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Release date - 15th October 2025
Playing for Possession is that electric, swoony, “heart‑racing while cheering from the sidelines” read I didn’t know I needed — but now I can’t imagine my bookshelf without it. Sasha Lace has outdone herself with an absolutely irresistible football romance that blends courage, chemistry, and so much heart.
Joanie is everything. Quiet strength, resilience, and someone who’s clawed her way back from injury without shouting about it from every rooftop — and that makes her all the more real, all the more lovable. Kieran Earnshaw? Bad‑boy with a cause. A guy who plays to win, yes, but also someone who’s capable of warmth, respect, and maybe even of rewriting the rules. Watching them navigate the pitch and the heart is simply thrilling.
Their relationship crackles with chemistry: the tension when they clash, the softness when they let down their guard, the moments you find yourself rooting out loud. And Menorca? What a fabulous backdrop for so much of their journey — sun, toes in the sand, a little wildness, and rules bending under the heat.
What I loved most is how Joanie pushes back against assumptions — about nepotism, about being “good,” about playing by other people’s rules. And Kieran, for all his bravado, is convincingly human — with fears, with hopes, and with a respect for Joanie that grows gradually (in all the best ways).
The tropes included within this story are:
⚽️ Opposites Attract
⚽️ Bad Boy x Good Girl
⚽️ Football Players
⚽️ Sports Romance
⚽️ Forced Proximity
If you want romance that is sweet and spicy, grounded and dreamy, with sports, with identity, with rules to break (and maybe a few to keep), this book is for you. I laughed. I swooned. I stayed up way too late. It’s one of those books that makes your heart fuller.
Highly, highly recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Release date - 15th October 2025
Playing for Possession is that electric, swoony, “heart‑racing while cheering from the sidelines” read I didn’t know I needed — but now I can’t imagine my bookshelf without it. Sasha Lace has outdone herself with an absolutely irresistible football romance that blends courage, chemistry, and so much heart.
Joanie is everything. Quiet strength, resilience, and someone who’s clawed her way back from injury without shouting about it from every rooftop — and that makes her all the more real, all the more lovable. Kieran Earnshaw? Bad‑boy with a cause. A guy who plays to win, yes, but also someone who’s capable of warmth, respect, and maybe even of rewriting the rules. Watching them navigate the pitch and the heart is simply thrilling.
Their relationship crackles with chemistry: the tension when they clash, the softness when they let down their guard, the moments you find yourself rooting out loud. And Menorca? What a fabulous backdrop for so much of their journey — sun, toes in the sand, a little wildness, and rules bending under the heat.
What I loved most is how Joanie pushes back against assumptions — about nepotism, about being “good,” about playing by other people’s rules. And Kieran, for all his bravado, is convincingly human — with fears, with hopes, and with a respect for Joanie that grows gradually (in all the best ways).
The tropes included within this story are:
⚽️ Opposites Attract
⚽️ Bad Boy x Good Girl
⚽️ Football Players
⚽️ Sports Romance
⚽️ Forced Proximity
If you want romance that is sweet and spicy, grounded and dreamy, with sports, with identity, with rules to break (and maybe a few to keep), this book is for you. I laughed. I swooned. I stayed up way too late. It’s one of those books that makes your heart fuller.
Highly, highly recommend.
September 8, 2025
I really wanted to like this book because I am ALL about the heroines of sports romance being the professional athlete, not just the hero. so a book about two professional football players? Sign me up!
I liked Kieran and Joanie. Kieran is hardly the bad boy, he has the rep but he’s dependable, stands up for himself and is only out partying to look out for his closeted teammate and younger brother. Joanie is an introvert but dedicated to her sport.
It’s an easy and fast read but the storyline just so disposable with barely any football, which was such a missed opportunity given Joanie is coming back after 9 months rehab from an ACL injury. There’s one scene where she finally gets the nerve to do a kick around and of course it’s played up for drama with her falling and hurting her injured knee.
Instead the majority of the action is Joanie and Kieran in Spain to film a commercial where the author shoehorns a few tropes that were superfluous and made me cringe - first Joanie’s teammate comes up with a sex fuck it list for Joanie, who is of course is a virgin, then ‘only one bed’ because Joanie gives up her bed for a wedding guest 🙄. Then of course when they finally do the deed for the first time there’s no condom nor mention of Joanie being on the pill. I lasted a few more chapters after that (skimming the subsequent spice scenes) and by the time the hospital scene, I just pretty much skimmed til 80% before finally calling it quits.
Not enough of the playing and too much insta-love spice. Lack of contraception was also a massive boner killer.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for the ARC.
I liked Kieran and Joanie. Kieran is hardly the bad boy, he has the rep but he’s dependable, stands up for himself and is only out partying to look out for his closeted teammate and younger brother. Joanie is an introvert but dedicated to her sport.
It’s an easy and fast read but the storyline just so disposable with barely any football, which was such a missed opportunity given Joanie is coming back after 9 months rehab from an ACL injury. There’s one scene where she finally gets the nerve to do a kick around and of course it’s played up for drama with her falling and hurting her injured knee.
Instead the majority of the action is Joanie and Kieran in Spain to film a commercial where the author shoehorns a few tropes that were superfluous and made me cringe - first Joanie’s teammate comes up with a sex fuck it list for Joanie, who is of course is a virgin, then ‘only one bed’ because Joanie gives up her bed for a wedding guest 🙄. Then of course when they finally do the deed for the first time there’s no condom nor mention of Joanie being on the pill. I lasted a few more chapters after that (skimming the subsequent spice scenes) and by the time the hospital scene, I just pretty much skimmed til 80% before finally calling it quits.
Not enough of the playing and too much insta-love spice. Lack of contraception was also a massive boner killer.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for the ARC.
October 9, 2025
Publishing October 15
First off, as an American I want to praise the narrators Evelyn Rose & Rhys Wright because this book just CRAVED their English accents. (Seriously, while I'd love to throw "footballers" or "footie" around at my kids' next game, I'm pretty sure it'll just get me laughed at).
Joanie is on the women's football team, but has been out with an ACL injury for most of the year. Her dad, who seems to be Ozzy Osborne more or less, has heavily influenced her life's direction.
Kieran is a top scorer on the men's team, but has a chip on his shoulder and conflict with the team captain. When a sponsor asks to have Kieran and "a female footballer" act in a commercial for them, Joanie and Kieran jet off to Menorca.
I liked the build up, the shared insecurities, and the way that Kieran didn't want the sponsor objectifying Joanie. But after learning that Joanie is dreadful at standing up for herself/believing that she earned her spot on the team/believing that she's not the dud of the family, I did not care for the sex scene that followed, which felt vaguely non-consensual. From then on, I also felt that there was a weird power dynamic where Kieran became Joanie's cheerleader 24/7 instead of her partner. Overall, I was glad there was some growth in the characters, but it was a bit awkward (he smiled!) and uneven for me.
There was a bit about their siblings, which hopefully means that they're the focus of the next book in the series? I'll definitely be going through the past books, as this was my first!
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for an audiobook ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
First off, as an American I want to praise the narrators Evelyn Rose & Rhys Wright because this book just CRAVED their English accents. (Seriously, while I'd love to throw "footballers" or "footie" around at my kids' next game, I'm pretty sure it'll just get me laughed at).
Joanie is on the women's football team, but has been out with an ACL injury for most of the year. Her dad, who seems to be Ozzy Osborne more or less, has heavily influenced her life's direction.
Kieran is a top scorer on the men's team, but has a chip on his shoulder and conflict with the team captain. When a sponsor asks to have Kieran and "a female footballer" act in a commercial for them, Joanie and Kieran jet off to Menorca.
I liked the build up, the shared insecurities, and the way that Kieran didn't want the sponsor objectifying Joanie. But after learning that Joanie is dreadful at standing up for herself/believing that she earned her spot on the team/believing that she's not the dud of the family, I did not care for the sex scene that followed, which felt vaguely non-consensual. From then on, I also felt that there was a weird power dynamic where Kieran became Joanie's cheerleader 24/7 instead of her partner. Overall, I was glad there was some growth in the characters, but it was a bit awkward (he smiled!) and uneven for me.
There was a bit about their siblings, which hopefully means that they're the focus of the next book in the series? I'll definitely be going through the past books, as this was my first!
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for an audiobook ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
October 27, 2025
I received an Advanced Reader Copy and am voluntarily reviewing it. I fell in love with this series at the beginning. I will be rocking with Ms. Lace for as long as she continues to put out books. I love that these girl footballers are getting to shine in the spotlight for a change. Kieran Earnshaw is considered the bad boy of the Calverdale soccer team. He needs to overhaul his image so he is forced to do a commercial. Of course, the bad boy of soccer put up a fight until all that he dreamed of was dangled in front of him. He just needed to do the commercial and keep his co-star safe. Most important of all don't cross the line. He was to be a friend only. His future was on the line.
Joanie Fox has always been on the outside looking in. Her happy place was on the pitch. After an injury, her happy place was not so happy anymore. Because she was injured, it made sense for her to be the one doing to commercial for Fizzz. This was so far out of Joanie's wheelhouse. Not to mention it was with one of her favorite players. She can barely talk to men. How was she supposed to do a commercial with her childhood crush? To get out of her comfort zone, the team helped Joanie create somewhat of a bucket list. The list included some spicy things that Joanie had never done with a suggestion of who to do them with.
While shooting the commercial, Kieran tries his best to stay within the friendship line. Once the real Joanie made an appearance, Kieran could not stay within his set boundaries. Joanie's draw was just too strong. Now they are having fun. What's going to happen when they get back? Let's not forget that Kieran has a pretty big secret that he needs to discuss with Joanie before it gets out. What will happen when Joanie finds out the real reason Kieran had a change of heart about the commercial? I fell in love with Joanie. I wanted to wrap her up in my arms and never let go. Read this book to see if Joanie gets the HEA she deserves.
Joanie Fox has always been on the outside looking in. Her happy place was on the pitch. After an injury, her happy place was not so happy anymore. Because she was injured, it made sense for her to be the one doing to commercial for Fizzz. This was so far out of Joanie's wheelhouse. Not to mention it was with one of her favorite players. She can barely talk to men. How was she supposed to do a commercial with her childhood crush? To get out of her comfort zone, the team helped Joanie create somewhat of a bucket list. The list included some spicy things that Joanie had never done with a suggestion of who to do them with.
While shooting the commercial, Kieran tries his best to stay within the friendship line. Once the real Joanie made an appearance, Kieran could not stay within his set boundaries. Joanie's draw was just too strong. Now they are having fun. What's going to happen when they get back? Let's not forget that Kieran has a pretty big secret that he needs to discuss with Joanie before it gets out. What will happen when Joanie finds out the real reason Kieran had a change of heart about the commercial? I fell in love with Joanie. I wanted to wrap her up in my arms and never let go. Read this book to see if Joanie gets the HEA she deserves.
October 13, 2025
Sports Romance ✅
Soccer (Fútball) Romance ✅
FMC and MMC Athlete ✅
Forbidden Romance ✅
Bad Boy turned Good ✅
S3xual awakening/V!rg!n ✅
Spicy to-do list! ✅
This is my first book by Sasha Lace and I am very interested in going back through this series and starting at the beginning. I really liked how Sasha captured the emotional insecurities and turmoil of her FMC, Joanie, while allowing her to develop and grow into a strong character that we, as readers, can root for throughout her journey.
And who doesn’t love a bad boy? Keiran is everything Joanie knows she should stay away from but can’t. Little does Joanie know, her dad already has stuck his nose in her business and has opinions of what she should and shouldn’t do.
While there whirlwind romance on an extended holiday follows them back to the “real world” they need to juggle public personas along with their feelings for each other.
This was a fun, engaging, love story that I couldn’t stop listening to. Narrators Evelyn Rose and Rhys Wright, with their alluring accents swept me away to Europe every time their voices graced my ears. They both were able to portray the complex emotions of the characters battled.
Thank you to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to review this advanced listener copy.
Soccer (Fútball) Romance ✅
FMC and MMC Athlete ✅
Forbidden Romance ✅
Bad Boy turned Good ✅
S3xual awakening/V!rg!n ✅
Spicy to-do list! ✅
This is my first book by Sasha Lace and I am very interested in going back through this series and starting at the beginning. I really liked how Sasha captured the emotional insecurities and turmoil of her FMC, Joanie, while allowing her to develop and grow into a strong character that we, as readers, can root for throughout her journey.
And who doesn’t love a bad boy? Keiran is everything Joanie knows she should stay away from but can’t. Little does Joanie know, her dad already has stuck his nose in her business and has opinions of what she should and shouldn’t do.
While there whirlwind romance on an extended holiday follows them back to the “real world” they need to juggle public personas along with their feelings for each other.
This was a fun, engaging, love story that I couldn’t stop listening to. Narrators Evelyn Rose and Rhys Wright, with their alluring accents swept me away to Europe every time their voices graced my ears. They both were able to portray the complex emotions of the characters battled.
Thank you to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to review this advanced listener copy.
August 26, 2025
Playing for Possession follows the story of two professional soccer (football 🇬🇧) players, Joanie who is coming back from an injury and Kieran, a Premier League star with a bad boy reputation. They’re thrown into a trip together to film a commercial for a team sponsor, and the romance (and drama!) builds from there.
Things I loved about this book:
☀️😤 Grumpy x Sunshine vibes
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏻 🛌 Forced Proximity
💁🏻♂️😍 He falls first! 🥰
🌶️🌶️ Loved those spicy scenes!
💙💗 Depth of character development - both the FMC and MMC have deeper reasons for the challenges that keep them from being easily, happily together right away
👫👫 The “supporting cast” - Mortimer Fox, Ramirez, Jack, Ollie, Sean and others added layers to the story that kept me curious and invested in the outcome
🇬🇧⚽️ It’s fun reading a British author for all the funny slang and references!
What kept it from 5 stars for me…
- A bit TOO instant love for my taste
- I didn’t read the other books in the series, and the references to other characters from past books in the series did didn’t make sense or add value to the story.
Overall this was a very fun read! I would definitely recommend - thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Things I loved about this book:
☀️😤 Grumpy x Sunshine vibes
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏻 🛌 Forced Proximity
💁🏻♂️😍 He falls first! 🥰
🌶️🌶️ Loved those spicy scenes!
💙💗 Depth of character development - both the FMC and MMC have deeper reasons for the challenges that keep them from being easily, happily together right away
👫👫 The “supporting cast” - Mortimer Fox, Ramirez, Jack, Ollie, Sean and others added layers to the story that kept me curious and invested in the outcome
🇬🇧⚽️ It’s fun reading a British author for all the funny slang and references!
What kept it from 5 stars for me…
- A bit TOO instant love for my taste
- I didn’t read the other books in the series, and the references to other characters from past books in the series did didn’t make sense or add value to the story.
Overall this was a very fun read! I would definitely recommend - thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 18, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Playing for Possession” is a romance book by Sasha Lace. This book is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone. Joanie is a nepo-baby (daughter of a famous rock star and model, sister to a musician) who loves playing UK football (soccer for Americans). Kieran is regarded as a “bad boy” of UK football, but really has a protective heart (and part of the reason for his bad boy rep is due to protecting those he loves from bullying). They are thrown together to make a commercial for a drink on location and sparks fly between the two. There’s a little bit too insta-lust for me. There seemed to be a number of instances that were a bit “wow, that was convenient” at times. The team mate taking over the list - and Joanie keeping it. The hotel situation I found bizarre - would a hotel actually give up a room without speaking to the person assigned to the room? When they do the deed the first time - oh, no protection but that’s okay in hindsight and won’t happen again. Overall, this, for me, was an okay book - I don’t know a lot about soccer, but the action scenes are kept at a minimum so even I could follow along. If you like sexy time, this book has it.
“Playing for Possession” is a romance book by Sasha Lace. This book is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone. Joanie is a nepo-baby (daughter of a famous rock star and model, sister to a musician) who loves playing UK football (soccer for Americans). Kieran is regarded as a “bad boy” of UK football, but really has a protective heart (and part of the reason for his bad boy rep is due to protecting those he loves from bullying). They are thrown together to make a commercial for a drink on location and sparks fly between the two. There’s a little bit too insta-lust for me. There seemed to be a number of instances that were a bit “wow, that was convenient” at times. The team mate taking over the list - and Joanie keeping it. The hotel situation I found bizarre - would a hotel actually give up a room without speaking to the person assigned to the room? When they do the deed the first time - oh, no protection but that’s okay in hindsight and won’t happen again. Overall, this, for me, was an okay book - I don’t know a lot about soccer, but the action scenes are kept at a minimum so even I could follow along. If you like sexy time, this book has it.
September 27, 2025
ARC Review
I absolutely love this series and playing for possession didn’t let me down.
Playing for possession can be read as a part of the playing the field series or as a standalone - you wouldn’t want this to be a standalone though because it’s so good!
The story follows Kieran who is a great football, well respected by his team and loved by the ladies, then we have Joanie, a footballer coming back from an injury who is full of self doubt, she has an interfering rock star dad and a bucket list that needs ticking off.
The two end up working together while they shoot a promo for a drink that tastes like armpits, while the promo work isn’t great what goes on between them is electric.
Joanie worried me to begin with as she gave me wet lettuce vibes but oh was I wrong Joanie was amazing! As for Kieran by chapter 24 I was in love! I loved watching their relationship grow, scars heal and them growing as people.
I could honestly read another book all about these two and their witty, loving relationship. They were super cute and it was like watching your best friend fall in love as you cheer them on and watch their relationship bloom and go from strength to strength.
Fingers crossed that Sasha Lace brings out book 6 as I’m not done with this series.
I absolutely love this series and playing for possession didn’t let me down.
Playing for possession can be read as a part of the playing the field series or as a standalone - you wouldn’t want this to be a standalone though because it’s so good!
The story follows Kieran who is a great football, well respected by his team and loved by the ladies, then we have Joanie, a footballer coming back from an injury who is full of self doubt, she has an interfering rock star dad and a bucket list that needs ticking off.
The two end up working together while they shoot a promo for a drink that tastes like armpits, while the promo work isn’t great what goes on between them is electric.
Joanie worried me to begin with as she gave me wet lettuce vibes but oh was I wrong Joanie was amazing! As for Kieran by chapter 24 I was in love! I loved watching their relationship grow, scars heal and them growing as people.
I could honestly read another book all about these two and their witty, loving relationship. They were super cute and it was like watching your best friend fall in love as you cheer them on and watch their relationship bloom and go from strength to strength.
Fingers crossed that Sasha Lace brings out book 6 as I’m not done with this series.
July 25, 2025
3.5⭐
Joanie Fox es hija de una estrella de rock mundialmente famosa, pero lo último que quiere es que la vean como la hija de. Tras una grave lesión, aún se recupera y trata de encontrar su lugar en el equipo femenino de Calverdale United. Su vida toma un giro inesperado cuando la emparejan con Kieran Earnshaw, el problemático pero talentoso delantero del equipo masculino, para filmar un comercial de una bebida energética en Menorca.
Kieran, conocido por su actitud desafiante y su historial de escándalos, no quiere saber nada del comercial ni de la hija de Mortimer Fox. Pero cuando Mortimer le ofrece la oportunidad de ser capitán del equipo o incluso asegurarle un puesto en la selección nacional, Kieran acepta... con la condición de mantener sus manos lejos de Joanie.
Joanie quiere demostrar que no necesita el apellido de su padre para brillar, y Kieran busca dejar atrás el peso de su pasado. Lo que comenzó como una misión incómoda, pronto se convierte en algo más complicado: una atracción imposible de ignorar.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
Joanie Fox es hija de una estrella de rock mundialmente famosa, pero lo último que quiere es que la vean como la hija de. Tras una grave lesión, aún se recupera y trata de encontrar su lugar en el equipo femenino de Calverdale United. Su vida toma un giro inesperado cuando la emparejan con Kieran Earnshaw, el problemático pero talentoso delantero del equipo masculino, para filmar un comercial de una bebida energética en Menorca.
Kieran, conocido por su actitud desafiante y su historial de escándalos, no quiere saber nada del comercial ni de la hija de Mortimer Fox. Pero cuando Mortimer le ofrece la oportunidad de ser capitán del equipo o incluso asegurarle un puesto en la selección nacional, Kieran acepta... con la condición de mantener sus manos lejos de Joanie.
Joanie quiere demostrar que no necesita el apellido de su padre para brillar, y Kieran busca dejar atrás el peso de su pasado. Lo que comenzó como una misión incómoda, pronto se convierte en algo más complicado: una atracción imposible de ignorar.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
September 25, 2025
I was so excited to go back into the world of the Calverdale Ladies soccer team!! Kieran and Joanie’s story is fun and spicy and emotional too. She is coming back from an injury and finds herself stuck with Kieran (he’s the Calverdale team’s resident bad boy) in Spain filming a commercial. Neither wants to be there…but maybe they are exactly where they need to be…
Oh the tension is so good between them! They have such great flirty banter and the more time they spend together their chemistry only grows. Balcony anyone??
On the surface they seem like complete opposites but they both have image and family issues to work through - maybe they have more in common than you think….
I LOVE how we really see Joanie’s confidence grow and how supportive Kieran was. Also, shoutout to Lana and her list…IYKYK!!
I have enjoyed this entire series. This book can definitely be read as a standalone but I do recommend the other books too!
✨What To Expect:
🏟️Sports Romance
⚽️They Are Both Soccer Players
❤️🔥Forced Proximity
🚫Forbidden Vibes
🔥Opposites Attract
🌦️Grumpy x Sunshine
💋Good Girl x Bad Boy
🎥They Have To Film Together
🛏️One Bed
Oh the tension is so good between them! They have such great flirty banter and the more time they spend together their chemistry only grows. Balcony anyone??
On the surface they seem like complete opposites but they both have image and family issues to work through - maybe they have more in common than you think….
I LOVE how we really see Joanie’s confidence grow and how supportive Kieran was. Also, shoutout to Lana and her list…IYKYK!!
I have enjoyed this entire series. This book can definitely be read as a standalone but I do recommend the other books too!
✨What To Expect:
🏟️Sports Romance
⚽️They Are Both Soccer Players
❤️🔥Forced Proximity
🚫Forbidden Vibes
🔥Opposites Attract
🌦️Grumpy x Sunshine
💋Good Girl x Bad Boy
🎥They Have To Film Together
🛏️One Bed
October 15, 2025
5 ⭐ 3 🌶️ 4.5 🎧
I love this series so much. Not only is it so clear Sasha is a huge soccer/football fan, but her characters are so wonderfully flawed and beautifully written. I have loved each and every one of these installments and Joanie and Kieran's story was no different. Watching Joanie battle coming back from her injury was such a joy, and I loved the ways Kieran supported her making her way back to the sport she loved.
I'm a fan of the reformed playboy trope, but even more so when the playboy turns out to be more of a recluse than a womanizer. Kieran thought staying away from Joanie would be no big deal, but my goodness was he wrong. They had instant chemistry and the banter was fantastic.
I absolutely adored their first spicy scene too. I felt so many emotions as it played out and Kieran handled her so perfectly.
The audio was fantastic. Evelyn Rose and Rhys Wright were wonderful as these characters and I really enjoyed this listen. I did find Rhys' production to be a little echoey... But overall it didn't bother me much. Thank you so much to Brilliance Audio and Montlake Publishing for these advanced copies, I loved this immersive read!
I love this series so much. Not only is it so clear Sasha is a huge soccer/football fan, but her characters are so wonderfully flawed and beautifully written. I have loved each and every one of these installments and Joanie and Kieran's story was no different. Watching Joanie battle coming back from her injury was such a joy, and I loved the ways Kieran supported her making her way back to the sport she loved.
I'm a fan of the reformed playboy trope, but even more so when the playboy turns out to be more of a recluse than a womanizer. Kieran thought staying away from Joanie would be no big deal, but my goodness was he wrong. They had instant chemistry and the banter was fantastic.
I absolutely adored their first spicy scene too. I felt so many emotions as it played out and Kieran handled her so perfectly.
The audio was fantastic. Evelyn Rose and Rhys Wright were wonderful as these characters and I really enjoyed this listen. I did find Rhys' production to be a little echoey... But overall it didn't bother me much. Thank you so much to Brilliance Audio and Montlake Publishing for these advanced copies, I loved this immersive read!
November 30, 2025
Every possible deadline and distraction collaborated to prevent me from reading this, but it was so worth it.
Nepo baby Joanie has had a genuinely hard time, with an ACL tear taking her off of the women's football team for months. Her confidence low, the idea of doing an advert for the worst drink ever isn't exactly tempting, but she has no choice. The question is whether Kieran, the star footballer on the men's team, is going to make things worse for her or not.
I loved the concept of this, and Joanie's nepotism background plays into this a lot in a way that isn't too critical but also considers the actual impact it might have. I'd say this is borderline rivals to lovers, with Kieran having very little respect for the idea of Joanie and her brother being generally successful and being handed things.
The novel also handles homophobia quite well, though heads up for Kieran being passively homophobic towards the beginning (but it does make sense, and it is very much out of concern for his brother). It comes to a satisfying conclusion as a sub-plot!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Nepo baby Joanie has had a genuinely hard time, with an ACL tear taking her off of the women's football team for months. Her confidence low, the idea of doing an advert for the worst drink ever isn't exactly tempting, but she has no choice. The question is whether Kieran, the star footballer on the men's team, is going to make things worse for her or not.
I loved the concept of this, and Joanie's nepotism background plays into this a lot in a way that isn't too critical but also considers the actual impact it might have. I'd say this is borderline rivals to lovers, with Kieran having very little respect for the idea of Joanie and her brother being generally successful and being handed things.
The novel also handles homophobia quite well, though heads up for Kieran being passively homophobic towards the beginning (but it does make sense, and it is very much out of concern for his brother). It comes to a satisfying conclusion as a sub-plot!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
August 12, 2025
I was definitely the kid who always had a book handy. I remember getting in trouble for reading at the table. There was a time that I actually got grounded for books! To say that I am a bookworm is an understatement. For as long as I can remember, I have been a fan of traditional romance. Lately, I also become a huge fan of “sports romance,” so I was glad to get a chance to read this.
I was a bit nervous about reading a book that was a part of a pretty long series that I had not read yet. Thankfully, I was able to read this as a standalone. This book hooked me from the very beginning. I liked that it was told in alternating perspective first person. It really helped always knowing the other MC’s perspective.
As someone who has never really been into soccer (football), this book helped me see a different perspective. Also, I really liked the ending. My only issue is that I wish the epilogue would have been set a little further into the future.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I was a bit nervous about reading a book that was a part of a pretty long series that I had not read yet. Thankfully, I was able to read this as a standalone. This book hooked me from the very beginning. I liked that it was told in alternating perspective first person. It really helped always knowing the other MC’s perspective.
As someone who has never really been into soccer (football), this book helped me see a different perspective. Also, I really liked the ending. My only issue is that I wish the epilogue would have been set a little further into the future.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
September 28, 2025
I first discovered Sasha when she was going to be attending S&S earlier this year, although she was unable to attend I had started to read this series and couldn’t stop once I started.
I have cried and laughed throughout this series even when I least expected it.
In this book you have one of the top male football players and a quieter member of the female team who has suffered and injury but is also the daughter of a rock star.
Both have their own opinions of each other which couldn’t be further from the truth. Faces with their own challenges and differing histories they shouldn’t work.
When playing football with children while on holiday they both rediscover why they love the game and find new found strength.
Can’t recommend this series enough.
I had always been hesitant about books set in the UK purely because when you live somewhere I always start going well that wouldn’t happen. But since attending multiple UK signings I have found so many amazing authors based in the UK that also set their books here too and I have completely changed my view on this!
October 10, 2025
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Evelyn Rose and Rhys Wright who did a fantastic job!
This is the story of Joanie, who is a wallflower daughter of an over-the-top famous musician. She is also a professional football player who tore her ACL and is scared of reinjury. Her manager says she has to do a commercial to help bring awareness to female football and build her brand. Joanie worries about being seen as a diva or the spoiled kid of a rich and famous musician, so she agrees. Even though she doesn't want to at all. Another hitch is that it is with professional footballer Kieran Earnshaw, who is gorgeous.
Kieran doesn't want to do this advertisement and says no until Joanie's dad bribes him into doing it and taking care of Joanie. He does tell him he cannot touch her though, or he will ruin him. Kieran agrees in order to protect his little brother.
What ensues is a story about love, self-acceptance, and growth. There were a few holes in the story, but overall I really enjoyed this and couldn't stop listening. I definitely recommend it!
This is the story of Joanie, who is a wallflower daughter of an over-the-top famous musician. She is also a professional football player who tore her ACL and is scared of reinjury. Her manager says she has to do a commercial to help bring awareness to female football and build her brand. Joanie worries about being seen as a diva or the spoiled kid of a rich and famous musician, so she agrees. Even though she doesn't want to at all. Another hitch is that it is with professional footballer Kieran Earnshaw, who is gorgeous.
Kieran doesn't want to do this advertisement and says no until Joanie's dad bribes him into doing it and taking care of Joanie. He does tell him he cannot touch her though, or he will ruin him. Kieran agrees in order to protect his little brother.
What ensues is a story about love, self-acceptance, and growth. There were a few holes in the story, but overall I really enjoyed this and couldn't stop listening. I definitely recommend it!
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