The Long Game

Adalyn Reyes is dedicated to working for the Miami Flames, the major-league soccer team that her father owns. But when her reaction to an overheard conversation causes her to attack the team’s mascot—and video of it goes viral—Adalyn is banished to a philanthropic project in North Carolina to earn her job back and give the incident time to blow over. Finding herself in a small town with a soccer team of young girls to coach is surprising enough, but then Adalyn encounters pro goalkeeper Cameron Caldani, who is hiding from the press after his unexpected retirement. Forced to coach the girls together, Adalyn and Cameron’s initial dislike soon turns to grudging respect and mutual attraction. The ebb and flow as they learn how to balance strength and softness and become protective of each other is incredibly emotionally satisfying. While Adalyn will have to face decisions about her career and priorities, life with a gruff but tender goalkeeper, his cats, and some stray baby goats is starting to seem very appealing.