Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Emblidge debuts with a middling gay sports romance centered on an aging Premier League player training, and falling for, his potential replacement. In 2017, Oliver Harris, superstar of the Camden Football Club, is temporarily sidelined by a hamstring injury. The team's coach, whose job is on the line if their league standing doesn't improve, brings in Leo Davies-Villanueva to cover Oliver's position. Oliver seesaws between attempts at being friendly with the handsome, amiable Leo and anger at the threat of being replaced, emotional whiplash complicated by his undeniable attraction to the younger player. When Oliver eventually returns to the pitch, their simpatico playing styles spark renewed hopes for the team. But after Oliver and Leo share a kiss, Oliver fears his sexuality getting out will destroy his career, forcing the men to conduct their relationship in secret. Emblidge writes thrilling descriptions of football matches, but the slow-burning pace of the romance and Oliver's mercurial treatment of Leo will test readers' patience. This one doesn't stand apart from the pack of sports romances. (Jan.)
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Review by Library Journal Review
DEBUT After Premier League footballer Oliver Harris is injured playing for Camden, he is asked to mentor Leonardo Davis-Villanueva, the recruit who is standing in for him while he recovers. Leo is excited to have a shot with the team and work with his idol Oliver; Oliver, who worries that Leo could steal his position, is outright combative. Making matters worse, Oliver learns that his team must place fourth in the league or he will be traded and forced to leave his lifelong home of Camden. The football season starts poorly, until Oliver finally begins reciprocating Leo's enthusiasm and warm nature. They start to work effortlessly together and develop a friendship based on their mutual talent and love for the game. When Oliver's feelings for Leo turn to attraction, and Leo returns Oliver's interest, the pair must navigate a secret relationship or risk their football careers by living and loving in the public eye. VERDICT Since only Oliver's point of view is explored (readers don't hear from the passionate Leo), it might feel like part of the love story is missing, but Emblidge's debut is still an ideal sports romance for fans of Chloe Liese's "Bergman Brothers" and Rachel Reid's "Game Changers" series.--Eve Stano
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