"On the Defence" by Misty Rogers - A Heartwarming Sports Romance Journey šš
- Rujuta Desai
- Nov 30, 2023
- 2 min read

Diving into Misty Rogers's "On the Defence" was my inaugural voyage into the realm of sports romance, and what an enchanting journey it turned out to be! Although part of a series, this standalone gem swiftly captured my heart, providing a quick and delightful escape that I devoured in less than two days.
The storyline unfolds with the irresistible enemies-to-friends-to-lovers trope, tingling with excitement at every turn. What caught my attention was the reverse grumpy x sunshine dynamic between the protagonists. Erin, with her unyielding moral beliefs, is a force to reckon with, while Lucas, a gentle giant with an insatiable appetite, emanates warmth and charm.
Their initial banter, steeped in animosity, gradually evolves into a heartwarming camaraderie that felt incredibly realistic and relatable. Despite my limited knowledge of American football, the narrative, akin to the 'sportsball world' for the characters, was surprisingly easy to follow, blending seamlessly into the unfolding romance.
The love story between Lucas and Erin blossoms with a perfect blend of sweetness and just the right amount of spice, igniting a charming connection that resonates long after the final page. The meticulously crafted timeline of events adds authenticity, momentarily blurring the line between fiction and realityāa testament to the book's engrossing storytelling.
Spoilers Ahead
What struck me most profoundly was the profound respect Lucas showed for Erin's autonomy post-victory, refraining from imposing himself while acknowledging and supporting her efforts. Their respective commitments, Erin's unwavering advocacy for her friend and Lucas's allegiance to the cheerleaders, showcased their admirable character traits without making them polarizing figures.
The open discussion about marriage and Lucas's evident respect for Erin's choices added a layer of depth and tenderness to their evolving relationship, making their eventual proposal all the more heartwarming.
Intriguingly, this novel shed light on the inequalities between cheerleaders and football players, prompting introspection and discussions on pertinent social issuesāan aspect commendably handled by the author.
Receiving a free copy in exchange for review from the author and Hazelās Book Tours, I must emphasize the seamless standalone quality of this third series installment, weaving effortlessly into a broader narrative. The evolution of Erin and Lucas's relationship amidst protests and teamwork adds layers of humor, tension, and passion that kept me captivated until the heartfelt conclusion.
"On the Defence" is a touching exploration of love, activism, and personal growth set against the backdrop of football, leaving an indelible mark on my reading journey. If you relish a story where a raw male lead meets a strong-willed heroine amidst laughter, tension, and swoon-worthy moments, this book is an absolute must-read. Misty Rogers has skillfully crafted a compelling sports romance that is both uplifting and thought-provoking, making it a standout in the genre. #OnTheDefence #MistyRogers #SportsRomance #BookReview #EnemiesToLovers #Activism #HeartwarmingJourney
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