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Out of Her League
Not yet published
Expected 12 May 26To make her ex jealous, an ambitious young surgeon recruits a charming star soccer player to be her date to a lavish Parisian wedding—but love might have a game plan of its own, in this stand-alone romance from the USA Today bestselling author of the Biotech Billionaires series.
Dr. Isabelle Mercado is this close to having it all. Top of her class at the country’s most competitive orthopedic surgery residency, a dream career within reach, and a golden ticket to the Paris wedding of the year.
There’s just one her ex—the one who got away—is going to be there… with his perfect new fiancée.
Desperate to save face (and maybe spark a little jealousy), Isa enlists soccer legend and global heartthrob Austin Cade to be her fake date. After an injury and some unfortunate encounters with the press, Austin needs good PR and the kind of elite connections this wedding will attract. Plus, her ex just so happens to be his #1 fan. Win-win.
But between champagne toasts, macaron baking classes, and stolen glances under the Parisian stars, pretending starts to feel a lot like the real thing. Isa’s always been all-in on her career—love was never the goal.
But maybe, just maybe… this time, the heart has its own agenda.
TROPES YOU'LL
Fake datingFancy Paris weddingSo. much. banter!Billionaires and rich people shenanigansOnly one bedReputation rehabAthlete with a chip on his shoulder
Dr. Isabelle Mercado is this close to having it all. Top of her class at the country’s most competitive orthopedic surgery residency, a dream career within reach, and a golden ticket to the Paris wedding of the year.
There’s just one her ex—the one who got away—is going to be there… with his perfect new fiancée.
Desperate to save face (and maybe spark a little jealousy), Isa enlists soccer legend and global heartthrob Austin Cade to be her fake date. After an injury and some unfortunate encounters with the press, Austin needs good PR and the kind of elite connections this wedding will attract. Plus, her ex just so happens to be his #1 fan. Win-win.
But between champagne toasts, macaron baking classes, and stolen glances under the Parisian stars, pretending starts to feel a lot like the real thing. Isa’s always been all-in on her career—love was never the goal.
But maybe, just maybe… this time, the heart has its own agenda.
TROPES YOU'LL
Fake datingFancy Paris weddingSo. much. banter!Billionaires and rich people shenanigansOnly one bedReputation rehabAthlete with a chip on his shoulder
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 12, 2026
507 people want to read
About the author
Ava Rani
5 books343 followersAva is a USA Today Bestselling author and a desi-girl chasing HEAs
The daughter of two immigrants, her Indian-American roots peek out in different ways in her novels.
She writes diverse escapism. Flawed characters with real problems in an idealized world. Fall in love with the hero and the heroine. But also, fall in love with their friend group. Fall in love with their chosen families and the people who support them.
When she's not writing, she's living her best 'Charlotte Pickles' life and taking over the corporate world while being a wife and mom to an adorable kiddo and labradoodle. With hobbies from gardening to studying to being a sommelier, she's always looking for her next delicious treat.
The daughter of two immigrants, her Indian-American roots peek out in different ways in her novels.
She writes diverse escapism. Flawed characters with real problems in an idealized world. Fall in love with the hero and the heroine. But also, fall in love with their friend group. Fall in love with their chosen families and the people who support them.
When she's not writing, she's living her best 'Charlotte Pickles' life and taking over the corporate world while being a wife and mom to an adorable kiddo and labradoodle. With hobbies from gardening to studying to being a sommelier, she's always looking for her next delicious treat.
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January 1, 2026An immersive, addicting, and feel-good romance that isn't afraid to dig deep. Out of Her League is a must-read, and Ava Rani paints a world I want to live in forever.
Do yourself a favor and add this one to your TBR!
Do yourself a favor and add this one to your TBR!
February 12, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This was a fun and quick read. I love a fake dating romance, especially when it is to make an ex jealous. There is just something so satisfying about watching a plan that is meant to be temporary and strategic slowly unravel into something real and authentic.
Isa and Austin are such an unlikely match on paper, but that contrast (almost opposites attract) is exactly what makes them work. Isa is career driven, focused, and determined surgeon. Austin, on the other hand, is nearing the end of his professional football career and quietly grappling with what comes next.
Despite them agreeing to fake date, their connection never felt forced or overly performative. The chemistry developed naturally, and the shift from pretend to real felt seamless. I appreciated that their relationship was built on genuine conversations and mutual respect rather than just their physical attraction.
If I am being honest, I would have loved a bit more depth when it came to their individual struggles, especially Austin’s transition out of sports and Isa’s internal conflict between love and ambition. There were hints at deeper emotional stakes that could have been explored further. Overall, it was an enjoyable, light romance with heart, charm, and a couple you can easily root for.
This was a fun and quick read. I love a fake dating romance, especially when it is to make an ex jealous. There is just something so satisfying about watching a plan that is meant to be temporary and strategic slowly unravel into something real and authentic.
Isa and Austin are such an unlikely match on paper, but that contrast (almost opposites attract) is exactly what makes them work. Isa is career driven, focused, and determined surgeon. Austin, on the other hand, is nearing the end of his professional football career and quietly grappling with what comes next.
Despite them agreeing to fake date, their connection never felt forced or overly performative. The chemistry developed naturally, and the shift from pretend to real felt seamless. I appreciated that their relationship was built on genuine conversations and mutual respect rather than just their physical attraction.
If I am being honest, I would have loved a bit more depth when it came to their individual struggles, especially Austin’s transition out of sports and Isa’s internal conflict between love and ambition. There were hints at deeper emotional stakes that could have been explored further. Overall, it was an enjoyable, light romance with heart, charm, and a couple you can easily root for.
2026
February 2, 2026ANHPI TBR
Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Avon
Valentine's Day TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Avon
February 9, 2026
Out of her League was such a perfect romance to me. Isa and Austin are such a great match for each other and it was refreshing to see such a supportive, emotionally mature MMC complimenting a driven, successful FMC. There were so many times I could identify with Isa along the way and I was constantly rooting for her happiness. I loved how the complexities of strong family expectations, messy past relationships, and figuring out what you really want from life were discussed. Trope wise, I loved the surgeon x footballer main character dynamic, the fake dating, and the destination wedding with only one bed.
February 9, 2026
Thank you Avon and Harper Voyager for the ARC. All of these thoughts are my own.
I was hooked from first page. Isabelle was strong, determined surgeon and knew what she wanted in life. Until she finds out the man she thought was the one was engaged just before her best friend’s wedding in Paris. Of course she comes up with a plan and ends up finding a fake date for the weddings (with her best friend’s help). Austin, good looking soccer player, who Isa had been help treat comes in the clutch.
Seeing Austin and Isa together was 😮💨 the yearning, the tension, the understanding they had was just so good! I loved that Austin really helped Isa see she can have love and also fulfill her dreams. Isa with her perseverance showed Austin he can do more than what he is told. Their relationship was so genuine and the care they had for each other was so mature. I was impressed. If you love fake dating, age gap, mature understanding of each other, growth together and apart then I highly recommend this one!
I was hooked from first page. Isabelle was strong, determined surgeon and knew what she wanted in life. Until she finds out the man she thought was the one was engaged just before her best friend’s wedding in Paris. Of course she comes up with a plan and ends up finding a fake date for the weddings (with her best friend’s help). Austin, good looking soccer player, who Isa had been help treat comes in the clutch.
Seeing Austin and Isa together was 😮💨 the yearning, the tension, the understanding they had was just so good! I loved that Austin really helped Isa see she can have love and also fulfill her dreams. Isa with her perseverance showed Austin he can do more than what he is told. Their relationship was so genuine and the care they had for each other was so mature. I was impressed. If you love fake dating, age gap, mature understanding of each other, growth together and apart then I highly recommend this one!
February 13, 2026
Thank you so very much for letting me have this book in advance.
It such a good quick read.
It’s a dual pov
He falls first
Surgeon and a soccer star
Fake dating
Finding yourself.
I loved this because it gave so much into a perspective of a woman who needs to prove in the world of men.
I have had the same fears.
I have given up my dreams because of my family and health. But knowing I’m okay with that it took a while.
But I admire her to able to continue her dream and a partner to help her and give her the safety and reassurance that she needs.
It such a good quick read.
It’s a dual pov
He falls first
Surgeon and a soccer star
Fake dating
Finding yourself.
I loved this because it gave so much into a perspective of a woman who needs to prove in the world of men.
I have had the same fears.
I have given up my dreams because of my family and health. But knowing I’m okay with that it took a while.
But I admire her to able to continue her dream and a partner to help her and give her the safety and reassurance that she needs.
Want to read
August 20, 2025We are finally getting Isa’s book and I am so ready 🙂↕️ after loving her moments in The heir (one of my favourite romances ever) I am so prepared to fall in love with her story!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a fun book to read! Thank you, Ava, for this experience! And I could definitely tell where you wanted to inut your medical experience. As an uninformed reader, I'm a little glad the terminology was there, but not in overall depth.
Isa is in her last year of residency as an orthopedic surgeon, and part of her residency is working with her attending and the soccer team in NYC. She is an absolute boss, but one thing that does knock her ego is that her ex is engaged and going to her best friend's wedding (where she is the maid of honor). Austin is on the NYC soccer team, but he's recovering from an ACL injury and trying to keep his late best friend's charity afloat. That best friend's wife suggests that at an auction, he auction himself off to help raise money for the charity. Little did the two know that this would bring them closer to one another in a symbiotic way. She decides to bring him as her date to her best friend's wedding to make her ex jealous (who is a huge fan of the player)!
I lowkey love the doctor/patient trope (even if technically she wasn't his doctor), but I enjoyed the fact that these MCs had sortof been around each other prior to the book's setting. The chemistry between these two is undeniable. I had no problem believing that they couldn't keep their hands off each other. I used to hate the fake dating trope, but I think it is also becoming one of my favorites.
The relationships the MCs have with other characters did not take away anything from the relationship; in fact, it strengthened it. Austin's relationship with his goddaughter was so cute and had me giggling. Isa's relationship with her parents was a little wonky, but at least it worked out in the end. When she chose what she wanted to do with her career and her life, I felt relieved for her (but also stressed because that was going to be a rough situation to work around). I didn't necessarily love the scene where her dad shows up out of the blue in NYC to lecture her and drop her ego a peg. He's described as busy, and a train trip from DC is not the easiest thing to do. Honestly, I think a phone call could have done the same thing without bringing me out.
Overall, I will definitely be recommending this book to others, and I can't wait to see Ava talk more about this book at Cupid's!
Isa is in her last year of residency as an orthopedic surgeon, and part of her residency is working with her attending and the soccer team in NYC. She is an absolute boss, but one thing that does knock her ego is that her ex is engaged and going to her best friend's wedding (where she is the maid of honor). Austin is on the NYC soccer team, but he's recovering from an ACL injury and trying to keep his late best friend's charity afloat. That best friend's wife suggests that at an auction, he auction himself off to help raise money for the charity. Little did the two know that this would bring them closer to one another in a symbiotic way. She decides to bring him as her date to her best friend's wedding to make her ex jealous (who is a huge fan of the player)!
I lowkey love the doctor/patient trope (even if technically she wasn't his doctor), but I enjoyed the fact that these MCs had sortof been around each other prior to the book's setting. The chemistry between these two is undeniable. I had no problem believing that they couldn't keep their hands off each other. I used to hate the fake dating trope, but I think it is also becoming one of my favorites.
The relationships the MCs have with other characters did not take away anything from the relationship; in fact, it strengthened it. Austin's relationship with his goddaughter was so cute and had me giggling. Isa's relationship with her parents was a little wonky, but at least it worked out in the end. When she chose what she wanted to do with her career and her life, I felt relieved for her (but also stressed because that was going to be a rough situation to work around). I didn't necessarily love the scene where her dad shows up out of the blue in NYC to lecture her and drop her ego a peg. He's described as busy, and a train trip from DC is not the easiest thing to do. Honestly, I think a phone call could have done the same thing without bringing me out.
Overall, I will definitely be recommending this book to others, and I can't wait to see Ava talk more about this book at Cupid's!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Avon for the ARC!
This author has been on my TBR for a long time now so when I received the widget to read this book, I immediately jumped at the opportunity. Plus, it's being marketed as Grey's Anatomy drama with Ted Lasso Funny?? Sold. Out of Her League had banter for days and characters with so much heart and nuance.
Immediately, I loved Isa. It was clear that she was very dedicated to her career as a surgeon and ambitious as hell. Such a headstrong woman with so much pressure on her shoulders. From navigating her parent's grueling expectations while also working tirelessly during one of the most important years of her residency, she was under an insurmountable amount of stress. And then to top it off, going through a break-up in her personal life. I admired the way she tackled everything in her life though, but fully believed she deserved to make room for love, too. I loved the way her story played out and how she prioritized her happiness in the end - both in her personal and work life. Also, as someone who is childfree, I loved the open and real conversation about not having kids being an actual option and the idea that it's ok if you put yourself first. So refreshing!!
Austin was so sweet and such a good man. His heart was obviously in the right place when it came to everything he did in life. From Isa to Zoya and Jo to the foundation to his career - he was trying to do right by them all and I think he was too hard on himself. I'm glad he had such good people in his life who could be there to remind him what an incredible man he is. His guilt and grief from Theo's death killed me, but it was really sweet how he was there for Zoya and Jo. He was so good with Isa and I loved how he showed her that she could be loved completely and wholly. His determination and patience was everything and I loved how he gave Isa the space she needed while also never giving up on her. It was really beautiful to see him love her the way that he did.
Anyway, I absolutely loved this. This was very rom com-y with the fake dating, wedding shenanigans, and making her ex jealous plan, but I loved how real it got too. So many great side characters and a lot of depth to this. I hope we get Zoya's story because I need more of her!!
This author has been on my TBR for a long time now so when I received the widget to read this book, I immediately jumped at the opportunity. Plus, it's being marketed as Grey's Anatomy drama with Ted Lasso Funny?? Sold. Out of Her League had banter for days and characters with so much heart and nuance.
Immediately, I loved Isa. It was clear that she was very dedicated to her career as a surgeon and ambitious as hell. Such a headstrong woman with so much pressure on her shoulders. From navigating her parent's grueling expectations while also working tirelessly during one of the most important years of her residency, she was under an insurmountable amount of stress. And then to top it off, going through a break-up in her personal life. I admired the way she tackled everything in her life though, but fully believed she deserved to make room for love, too. I loved the way her story played out and how she prioritized her happiness in the end - both in her personal and work life. Also, as someone who is childfree, I loved the open and real conversation about not having kids being an actual option and the idea that it's ok if you put yourself first. So refreshing!!
Austin was so sweet and such a good man. His heart was obviously in the right place when it came to everything he did in life. From Isa to Zoya and Jo to the foundation to his career - he was trying to do right by them all and I think he was too hard on himself. I'm glad he had such good people in his life who could be there to remind him what an incredible man he is. His guilt and grief from Theo's death killed me, but it was really sweet how he was there for Zoya and Jo. He was so good with Isa and I loved how he showed her that she could be loved completely and wholly. His determination and patience was everything and I loved how he gave Isa the space she needed while also never giving up on her. It was really beautiful to see him love her the way that he did.
Anyway, I absolutely loved this. This was very rom com-y with the fake dating, wedding shenanigans, and making her ex jealous plan, but I loved how real it got too. So many great side characters and a lot of depth to this. I hope we get Zoya's story because I need more of her!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you for the eARC! This was my first read by Ava Rani. This was a fun and heartfelt read. At first, it seems like a fun story centered around a mutually beneficial fake dating agreement. But as both the story and relationship develops, you realize that theres a deeper and more emotional element to it. The story follows FMC Isabelle, who is finishing up her residency as a surgeon and actively considering her next steps for fellowships. Isabelle is strong, independent, and laser focused. Until she finds out that her now engaged ex will be at her best friend's wedding. So she hatches the classic plan, one up her ex by bringing a date-but not just any date, a famous former soccer star. Austin, our MMC, was a premier league star and came back to the US to play in the American league. Currently injured, he's wondering whats next for his career and life. He agrees to be Isabella's fake date for the wedding in Paris in order to take advantage of potential coaching opportunities over there. As the story unfolds between Isabelle and Austin, we realize that what seems like a fun idea that will get them both something, ends up being a real connection between them. They both have experiences that have forged their decisions and they are both at a crossroads for whats next. Both are unsure about the next stage of life and whether they should follow their hearts for their careers and one another. Overall, I enjoyed my first read by Ava Rani. I appreciated the real and relevant elements about how life changes and trying to figure out the path you really want from the one you told yourself you "should' follow. I also appreciated how it highlighted the real experience of women, who are trying to make careers in male=dominated fields. I could relate to some of Isabelle's concerns about making her own choices and having an identity for herself. The only area that I wanted more from was the connection between Isa and Austin. I think it felt a little rushed for the first 75% of the book. The last 25% it got better. I would recommend this book as I think it's got a good balance of fun and real.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5/5
In Out of Her League, Isa faces a dilemma that many women can, unfortunately, relate to: career versus love/personal life. When she learns that her on-again, off-again ex is newly engaged, Isa is forced to reflect on how she’s prioritized her career and what she truly wants moving forward. Throughout the book, she struggles to find balance between her professional ambitions and romantic desires, ultimately grappling with the question: can women really have it all?
I absolutely loved Isa as a character. She’s confident, intelligent, and ambitious, with big dreams of what she wants to accomplish as a surgeon. For the first time, her certainty is shaken when she meets Austin, who becomes her fake date for her best friend’s wedding. Through their evolving relationship, Austin helps Isa distinguish between what she wants for her life and legacy versus what her parents expect of her.
Their relationship felt refreshingly mature and communicative. Austin first and foremost champions Isa's happiness and supports whatever that looks like unconditionally, without ever asking her to shrink herself. The book beautifully shows that true love doesn’t require sacrificing dreams; instead, it allows two people to build a life together without taking away from who they are. Compromise here isn’t about loss, but about investing in mutual happiness.
By the end of the book, the answer is yes, women can have it all. Sometimes, personal relationships and professional ambitions can complement one another: having the right partner who adds to your life rather than forcing you to choose.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for the ARC!
In Out of Her League, Isa faces a dilemma that many women can, unfortunately, relate to: career versus love/personal life. When she learns that her on-again, off-again ex is newly engaged, Isa is forced to reflect on how she’s prioritized her career and what she truly wants moving forward. Throughout the book, she struggles to find balance between her professional ambitions and romantic desires, ultimately grappling with the question: can women really have it all?
I absolutely loved Isa as a character. She’s confident, intelligent, and ambitious, with big dreams of what she wants to accomplish as a surgeon. For the first time, her certainty is shaken when she meets Austin, who becomes her fake date for her best friend’s wedding. Through their evolving relationship, Austin helps Isa distinguish between what she wants for her life and legacy versus what her parents expect of her.
Their relationship felt refreshingly mature and communicative. Austin first and foremost champions Isa's happiness and supports whatever that looks like unconditionally, without ever asking her to shrink herself. The book beautifully shows that true love doesn’t require sacrificing dreams; instead, it allows two people to build a life together without taking away from who they are. Compromise here isn’t about loss, but about investing in mutual happiness.
By the end of the book, the answer is yes, women can have it all. Sometimes, personal relationships and professional ambitions can complement one another: having the right partner who adds to your life rather than forcing you to choose.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I met Isa in The Heir and I could tell she was a force. Similar to the Biotech trilogy it was nice to see BIPOC characters navigate careers and positions that have been primarily written as Caucasian.
Isa is a top orthopaedic surgeon, pursuing the most prestigious fellowship and completely career focused.
When she finds out that her ex is now engaged and attending her best friend’s wedding (Selena and Henry), Isa recruits Austin her exes Idol to be her plus one.
Since this is a spin off of the Amari family there was a little less hijinx and history there, but the new characters Austin and Zoya were *chefs kiss* (pun kinda intended).
Austin was perfection, how they started off fake dating (I love!!) but he showed his maturity and patience to be that steady support for Isa. I loved how he took control when it mattered and Isa needed that force to calm her, but he was completely flexible and nonchalant at other times. He was a million green flags and I just adored him.
I will say Isa had a harsh wit to her at times to protect herself. There was quite a bit of banter and you saw Isa hold her own, but I really enjoyed when things shifted from fake fake to fun and seeing the walls come down between her and Austin.
Thank you NetGalley and Ava for this ARC. This review is my honest free opinion.
Isa is a top orthopaedic surgeon, pursuing the most prestigious fellowship and completely career focused.
When she finds out that her ex is now engaged and attending her best friend’s wedding (Selena and Henry), Isa recruits Austin her exes Idol to be her plus one.
Since this is a spin off of the Amari family there was a little less hijinx and history there, but the new characters Austin and Zoya were *chefs kiss* (pun kinda intended).
Austin was perfection, how they started off fake dating (I love!!) but he showed his maturity and patience to be that steady support for Isa. I loved how he took control when it mattered and Isa needed that force to calm her, but he was completely flexible and nonchalant at other times. He was a million green flags and I just adored him.
I will say Isa had a harsh wit to her at times to protect herself. There was quite a bit of banter and you saw Isa hold her own, but I really enjoyed when things shifted from fake fake to fun and seeing the walls come down between her and Austin.
Thank you NetGalley and Ava for this ARC. This review is my honest free opinion.
February 5, 2026
Dr. Isabelle Mercado is in the final leg of her residency program, looking forward to her maid of honor duties at her best friend’s wedding. When she finds out that the man she’s always envisioned her future with after countless years of back and forth is dating someone else and going to the wedding, she knows she needs an amazing plus one. Enter Austin Cade, American footballer, sidelined with possibly a career-ending injury while trying to make his foundation successful. Attending the wedding together is a mutually beneficial plan - as long as everyone knows the end goal.
***Fake dating
***Dual POV
***Great side characters
***One bed
***🌶️🌶️🌶️
The chemistry between our couple was so great! Isa is a successful, intelligent FMC that knows what she wants out of life - she’s just looking for her person. Austin was the ultimate golden retriever - wanting the best for his loved ones and wanting to do good in the world. I loved them together - I thought they balanced each other out perfectly.
This was my first book by the author but I will definitely be looking into her previous novels!
Thank you to Avon, HarperCollins Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel; all opinions are my own.
***Fake dating
***Dual POV
***Great side characters
***One bed
***🌶️🌶️🌶️
The chemistry between our couple was so great! Isa is a successful, intelligent FMC that knows what she wants out of life - she’s just looking for her person. Austin was the ultimate golden retriever - wanting the best for his loved ones and wanting to do good in the world. I loved them together - I thought they balanced each other out perfectly.
This was my first book by the author but I will definitely be looking into her previous novels!
Thank you to Avon, HarperCollins Publishers and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel; all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This romance centered on career-driven surgeon Isabelle, working to make a name for herself out of the shadows of her famous surgeon parents, and soon-to-retire pro- soccer player Austin, who meet during the course of his physical therapy and them again at an auction. Isa, reeling from the news that her on-again off-again longtime boyfriend Blake is engaged and will be attending her best friend’s wedding, hatches a plan to fake a relationship with Austin to show Blake she isn’t affected. Along the way, she and Austin begin to develop feelings for each other and have to decide if they can make a relationship work between the two of them when she is extremely focused on her career and future in surgery and he is trying to plan his next steps as he retires from the league.
There is a dual POV between Austin and Isa and it helps to get to know both of the characters well. I preferred reading her point of view but it didn’t detract from the story, and it flowed nicely with different obstacles scattered throughout. This was a quick and fun read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Out of Her League by Ava Rani was such a refreshing read.
I absolutely loved following Dr. Isabella Mercado. She’s brilliant, driven, at the top of her surgical residency… and completely consumed by her career. Watching her navigate what it means to want success and something softer felt so real. Her journey toward work/life balance was beautiful to watch unfold.
The fake dating setup at a Paris wedding was everything. Champagne, stolen glances, elite chaos, and so much banter. But what I appreciated most was that this story wasn’t just about romance. It was about identity. About who you are outside of your ambition. About realizing love doesn’t have to compete with your goals.
Austin Cade brought the charm, but Isabella carried this story in the best way. Smart women choosing both career and love will always hit for me.
Thank you so much Avon and Harper Voyager, Ava Rani, and NetGalley for this e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely loved following Dr. Isabella Mercado. She’s brilliant, driven, at the top of her surgical residency… and completely consumed by her career. Watching her navigate what it means to want success and something softer felt so real. Her journey toward work/life balance was beautiful to watch unfold.
The fake dating setup at a Paris wedding was everything. Champagne, stolen glances, elite chaos, and so much banter. But what I appreciated most was that this story wasn’t just about romance. It was about identity. About who you are outside of your ambition. About realizing love doesn’t have to compete with your goals.
Austin Cade brought the charm, but Isabella carried this story in the best way. Smart women choosing both career and love will always hit for me.
Thank you so much Avon and Harper Voyager, Ava Rani, and NetGalley for this e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book was a breath of fresh air. I loved how powerful the FMC was, she didn't need a man. She was strong on her own. Dr. Mercado was a surgeon and very career focused. She had a plan for her future. Then she met Austin Cade, footballer star and he got her thinking about other things while being her plus one at her best friend's wedding in France. Austin was so sweet and helped Isa realize that he wasn't trying to make her choose between him and her career. I also really loved that the FMC was straightforward with our MMC about her decision to be child free, this was so refreshing.
This book reminded me of a 90s rom com and I loved our journey with Isa and Cade!
What you can expect :
-Surgeon x Footballer
-She needs a plus one
-Destination Wedding in France
-Only One Bed
-Roy Kent Grumpy but Jamie Tartt funny
This book reminded me of a 90s rom com and I loved our journey with Isa and Cade!
What you can expect :
-Surgeon x Footballer
-She needs a plus one
-Destination Wedding in France
-Only One Bed
-Roy Kent Grumpy but Jamie Tartt funny
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I don’t exactly know how to describe it but it was... boring and bland and dull. I wanted to love this so much more, but it just seemed so surface level. It was so much more tell than it was show and that bothered me so much. The prose was so stilted too, like instead of flowy sentences and structure, it was just one sentence to the next in a monotone, robotic sort of way? It made it very uninteresting. The writing is choppy, jarring, and repetitive, and the chemistry between Austin and Isa was sorely lacking. Also, while it is being marketed as Grey’s Anatomy meets Ted Lasso, I certainly did not get those vibes at all. It was not funny or comedic or hot or dramatic, it was just... blah. Props for a cute cover, and a lot of representation.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ava Rani, and Avon for the eARC of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ava Rani, and Avon for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
With so many great reviews, I thought that I would love Out of Her League. Unfortunately, it was just okay. I do not think it will be a memorable romance for a couple of reasons.
First, it felt very boring. I was just reading to get through, not because anything noteworthy was happening. Second, the writing was okay, but there was no hook. Third, I felt that the characters lacked chemistry throughout. There was no real reason for me to root for them. I wanted more complexity to the story and the relationship.
I did really love the premise of this book. Right when I read it, it piqued my interest. I just wish that was the same for when I actually read it.
Thank you NetGalley, Avon, & Ava Rani for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Out of Her League is released on May 12, 2026!
First, it felt very boring. I was just reading to get through, not because anything noteworthy was happening. Second, the writing was okay, but there was no hook. Third, I felt that the characters lacked chemistry throughout. There was no real reason for me to root for them. I wanted more complexity to the story and the relationship.
I did really love the premise of this book. Right when I read it, it piqued my interest. I just wish that was the same for when I actually read it.
Thank you NetGalley, Avon, & Ava Rani for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Out of Her League is released on May 12, 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Out of Her League is my first Ava Rani book and it definitely won't be my last! This story was fun and full of heart. Isa is a brilliant surgeon trying to find a future that makes her happy without feeling like she is giving something up and Austin is a former pro soccer player trying to honor is best friend and figure out his future. I really enjoyed both of the main characters and I felt like the pacing of this book was great! Fake dating is always fun and a billionaire wedding is also the backdrop for a portion of the book.
Fun plot ✔️ Smart/Driven FMC ✔️ Brooding Golden retriever ✔️
This was a fun easy read and I couldn't put it down! Thank you NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fun plot ✔️ Smart/Driven FMC ✔️ Brooding Golden retriever ✔️
This was a fun easy read and I couldn't put it down! Thank you NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and Ava Rani for the ARC of this book!! First off, Ava Rani's female characters are always girl bosses with extreme intelligence and wittiness like no other. I always enjoy watching her characters let their walls down for each other. I adored Isa and she was so relatable at feeling stuck in time while everyone else moves ahead. As for Austin he was so sweet and such a loving character. I loved how he never faked anything from the start and always had eyes for Isa. I also have to add in that the reporter totally give Trent Crim from Ted Lasso vibes and that made him all the more funny of a side character. I cannot wait to see what Ava Rani does next!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a great book about a woman succeeding in a male dominated profession and the trials of navigating what’s expected of her and what she wants.
Isa is a strong, independent, no nonsense FMC with impressive character growth throughout this story. As a woman in a male dominated profession in the shadow a wildly accomplished father, she is no stranger to hard work.
Austin is at a crossroads and a little aimless as to what he wants his next step to be. What he does know is that Isa is end game for him. He’s kind, patient, and understanding. He’s simply perfect for Isa, and when she finally realizes that, it’s a beautiful thing.
Isa is a strong, independent, no nonsense FMC with impressive character growth throughout this story. As a woman in a male dominated profession in the shadow a wildly accomplished father, she is no stranger to hard work.
Austin is at a crossroads and a little aimless as to what he wants his next step to be. What he does know is that Isa is end game for him. He’s kind, patient, and understanding. He’s simply perfect for Isa, and when she finally realizes that, it’s a beautiful thing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for the ARC!
I was really excited for this one since I love the fake dating trope, but I had a hard time connecting with the romance. While there was a lot of backstory and character development, I didn’t feel much chemistry or buildup between the FMC and MMC. Because of that, their relationship shifting into a physical connection felt a bit sudden.
That said, readers who enjoy character-driven stories with strong personal growth and emotional backstories may still find a lot to appreciate here. The writing itself was engaging, and the premise had a lot of potential—it just didn’t fully deliver on the romantic tension I was hoping for.
I was really excited for this one since I love the fake dating trope, but I had a hard time connecting with the romance. While there was a lot of backstory and character development, I didn’t feel much chemistry or buildup between the FMC and MMC. Because of that, their relationship shifting into a physical connection felt a bit sudden.
That said, readers who enjoy character-driven stories with strong personal growth and emotional backstories may still find a lot to appreciate here. The writing itself was engaging, and the premise had a lot of potential—it just didn’t fully deliver on the romantic tension I was hoping for.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.25/5
This was a SUPER quick read for me.
Lots of relationship drama (of all kinds).
And I am always here for a fake-dating/fake-relationship situation. Those are always so fun.
I did like that this was dual POV between our two main characters. I think that really added to the story, it always helps in a romance I think.
I did like these characters, but sometimes, they did bum me out. I think that was on purpose, but I'm not really sure. It did make some sentiments feel quite repetitive. But I don't think it massively took away from this book or anything like that.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
This was a SUPER quick read for me.
Lots of relationship drama (of all kinds).
And I am always here for a fake-dating/fake-relationship situation. Those are always so fun.
I did like that this was dual POV between our two main characters. I think that really added to the story, it always helps in a romance I think.
I did like these characters, but sometimes, they did bum me out. I think that was on purpose, but I'm not really sure. It did make some sentiments feel quite repetitive. But I don't think it massively took away from this book or anything like that.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Gotta love a story featuring a strong woman in STEM! I loved Isa as a character because her focus was on her career (and not on being a “typical” woman in a relationship who had to compromise on her dreams) but with the addition of Austin, it was clear she had room to make her own version of a happy ever after with him.
I received an ARC of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was quite refreshing. The third quarter really slowed down and was a little bit harder for me to read through. I really adored both of our main characters how different they were but how well they work together.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC of this book, and this is my voluntary unbiased and true opinion
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC of this book, and this is my voluntary unbiased and true opinion
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5/5 - Seated for this romance about a driven woman, abandoned by an insecure man, who finds love again in an unexpected place.. This was my first Ava Rani novel and I loved the storytelling and character development. I felt equally engaged in both MC's happiness and their backstories made perfect sense without feeling superfluous.
Thanks to NetGalley for the digital ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley for the digital ARC.
February 12, 2026
Out of Her League by Ava Rani is a great book about trying to succeed in a typical male dominated profession. The chemistry between Austin and Isa is 😮💨. Austin's patience and willingness to support Isa through her self worth journey and her path to finding her career was chefs kiss.
Thank you to Net Galley and Avon for the Arc of this book
Thank you to Net Galley and Avon for the Arc of this book
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was so grateful and excited to be selected as an ARC reader for this book. I love Ava Rani and her books! The book started out great, but at some point I got over the MFC's "woe is me" attitude. The book is also very repetitive at times and I found myself skimming some parts. Overall though, the story is cute, there's no suspenseful parts, and it's a quick read.
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