If you’re looking for a heartfelt novel that combines the excitement of college sports with a drama-filled romance, THE REAL ONES by J Rose Black is a must. This installment in the Chasing Victory series hits every beat that fans of contemporary romance will be looking for: passion, angst, second chances, and lovable main characters.
Briella ("Ella") Reddington is a gifted softball player carrying wounds from a past relationship. She meets Maddox "Mick" McBride, a former Marine turned college quarterback. They have an instant connection. Unfortunately, just as Ella begins to open her heart again, unexpected circumstances pull them apart. When they encounter each other again for a Valentine’s Day football event, the chemistry is still there; but this time Ella won’t give her heart away so easily. Black doesn’t shy away from painful topics like trauma, fear, and resentment, but she pads them out with plenty of romance and genuine emotional moments between the romantic leads.
The pacing also keeps the story from feeling too heavy. The novel is short, quick, and dialogue-heavy—which makes it enjoyable and easy to get through. The structure switches between present-day events and flashbacks to the couple’s past (ten months prior). Changing between perspectives also keeps the story moving while holding the reader’s interest. It can be confusing at times, especially in the early chapters, but it quickly becomes easier to follow as the reader settles into the narrative rhythm.
One of the book’s most interesting elements is its sports setting, which cannot go unmentioned. The team dynamics and football references add excitement where a trope-heavy romance can play out in a new context. Admittedly, some references may be lost upon those less familiar with sports, but this will not detract from the narrative in any meaningful way. Readers will still be drawn in where it matters most: the emotional beats.
Because what romance lover can turn away from a second-chance romance with a resilient heroine and protective hero? Those who enjoy this book can also look forward to several more, as the novel ends with an excerpt from another story in the series—piquing readers' interest to remain in this satisfying universe.
J Rose Black's THE REAL ONES is a swoon-worthy novel that will satisfy enthusiasts of contemporary romance looking for a fast-paced read.
~ Tess McCumstie for IndieReader