[Portia’s Review:] Fair Catch by Kandi Steiner

As if things aren’t already tough enough as the only girl on a college football team, Coach had to go and assign Zeke Collins as my roommate.⁣⁣
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A cocky kick returner and my brother’s best friend who should have been ripped of that title years ago, he’s as infuriating as he is undeniably sexy.⁣⁣
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I hate him, and for good reason — reason I won’t ever let him forget.⁣⁣
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He thinks because we grew up together that it’s his role to protect me, but all he does is get in my way, make me look weak, and piss me off more.⁣⁣
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I tell him I can handle myself, and I’m hell-bent on getting that point across to him and the rest of the nation watching the only girl in collegiate football.⁣⁣
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The pressure doesn’t get to me. The scrutiny? I’m ready for.⁣⁣
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But sharing very thin walls with Zeke Collins? I wasn’t prepared for that.⁣⁣
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And the more we’re forced together, the harder it is to distinguish that pencil-thin line between hating him… and wanting him.⁣⁣

I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

I’ve read a handful of Kandi Steiner novels, and I love them so much I have reread some, and one has become a top favorite romance comfort read for me (Revelry, SWOON). So when I had the chance to read this New Adult romance I was so excited. There was only one thing that worried me: the sports.

I know that Kandi LOVES football. But I don’t really like sports much at all, aside from some soccer and hockey here and there, even though my husband is obsessed with all things sports. But I have read a good bit of sports romances so I decided it was worth a try! So Let me go ahead and tell you all now – that the sports was my only real issue with the book. I know, ridiculous, since its a sports romance. But it was just that there was SO MUCH SPORTS. At times it felt like the drama and romance took a backseat it. But the authors love and knowledge of football is very clear in her writing. On to the good stuff!

Zeke and Riley have a long history together, including a trauma that changed both of their lives and changed her feelings about Zeke. So she despises him, but they end up playing for the same football team in college, so she’s forced to face him regularly. Zeke and Riley’s story has all the trademarks of New Adult that I love, such as enemies – to – lovers and forced proximity. The tension that comes with this is what really keeps me on the edge of my seat. I really liked both of them (and some of the side characters too!) and I couldn’t wait for them to come crashing together…. and when they did…. OH BOY. It set the pages on fire.

The sex scenes are near perfect. So well written! Sometimes there are moments in steamy scenes in books that just feel cringey, or worded strange, or seem poorly timed, ect. But that was not an issue here. It was hot. For sure.

Kandi is great at writing romances with young couples who need love and redemption, and represent the trials and tribulations of life and relationships.

Now I am thinking about a reread of some of her other books again while I wait for the next new book!!!

Portia

Hi, I’m Portia! I’ve been an obsessive reader and pop culture addict my entire life, with a particular passion for horror and thrillers. I love being a part of the book community and can regularly be found working various book events. I’m an admin here at Ideally Inspired Reviews!

When I am not binge reading or obsessing over true crime podcasts and shows, I am a bar manager by night and a mom and wife by day. If I find any time after that, I love to travel, spend time outdoors, and fit as much live music into my life as possible. You can find me on Instagram @Ideally.Portia or TikTok @itsportiabitch.