No Distractions, Just Sparks
A World Cup Second-Chance
4.5 out of 5 stars
As someone who never says no to a good sports romance, Onside Play hit the sweet spot for me. Even though it’s been a bit since I finished this one, I still remember how much I enjoyed Liz Rain’s blend of on-field rivalry and off-field chemistry. There’s just something magical about two soccer stars, one brash and bold from Australia, the other ice-cool and all business from the US, being forced to face their past (and feelings) under the blinding stadium lights (and pressure) of the World Cup.
Keeley and Christine are both layered, flawed, and so easy to root for. Their dynamic is both competitive and collaborative, and I loved watching them push each other to be better, sometimes through playful banter, sometimes with those moments that just make you sigh. The alternating chapters between their present-day showdown and their college-days romance really brought out the tension and heart. It was equal parts second-chance swoon and reminder that sometimes, your “enemy” is the person who knows you best.
Cat Gould’s narration keeps things energetic and perfectly matches the story’s vibe, making it even better.
If you love sports romance (especially with a second-chance twist), or just want to lose yourself in a fun, heartfelt story about two pro athletes learning how to balance dreams and desire, give this one a listen.
Book Description:
Two soccer stars share a secret along with a rivalry that stretches halfway around the world in this lighthearted, second-chance lesbian romance.
Knockabout Australian Keeley McGee is living her childhood dream of playing soccer at the World Cup. The only thing that could kill her focus is coming up against the cool and dispassionate US team’s star striker.
Beautiful, brilliant Christine Delacourt was the college girlfriend who dumped Keeley out of the blue years before.
What will it be like reuniting under the stadium lights, especially since they know the other’s game—and each other—so intimately?
Despite a strict “no distractions” rule from her coach, Keeley finds herself drawn to Christine in a way that feels almost dangerous. Will Keeley be able to rekindle what she once shared with her now on—field enemy with the eyes of the world on them? Dare she even try?
Onside Play by Liz RainNarrator: Cat Gould
Length: 6 hrs and 6 mins
Published by Tantor Audio on April 22nd 2024
Genres: Sports Romance
Also by this author: Perks of Office
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- Ordinary Soil by Alex Woodard (Narrated by Scott Brick, George Newbern) - November 6, 2025
- Learning to Fall by Peach Morris (Narrated by Zara Hampton-Brown) - November 3, 2025
