Summary
Going for Two
by Marie Veillon
Loren Reed is a sucker for a good romance trope—it’s why she returned to Camellia High to teach English lit. Unfortunately, a shallow dating pool, lousy parents, and an overbearing older brother have put a damper on her love life. She’s thirty years old with nothing to show for it: no rom-com meet cutes, no cinnamon-roll MMCs, no sexy slow burns, and still no prospects.
Well, except for Blake Bourgeois, her childhood academic rival. A former homecoming king turned volunteer football coach and small-town lawyer, he’s also known as Camellia’s most charming, handsome, and witty perpetual bachelor. Even with Blake’s unspoken three-date rule, there’s still a waitlist to get a peek at his spicy abs.
But Blake has a secret—one only Loren knows. Long before he became “Blake the Snake,” he was “The Other Bourgeois,” the one left feeling second-best to his younger brother. And who better to validate his bro complex than Landry Reed’s baby sister?
While Loren may be the only woman privy to the man behind Blake’s overconfident mask, the two have never been able to figure out their own relationship. Are they friends or enemies? Allies or lovers?
It’s a good thing Loren’s too smart to fall for a guy like Blake, regardless of how swoon-worthy he may be or how many times he satisfies her peanut-butter fix. She refuses to waste her quirky sunshine on balancing Blake’s grumpy facade—until a little forced proximity makes it too difficult to ignore their undeniable chemistry. Then a risky two-point conversion is all it takes to rock their frenemy-ship and change things between them forever.
Suddenly, they’re fake-dating friends without benefits, and the lines have become too blurry to make out whether Blake’s falling first or Loren’s falling harder. Now that Blake’s values have shifted, will it be enough for Loren to take him seriously? And is she as ready for a happily ever after as she thinks?
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Martial Peak Reviews
Going for Two by Marie Veillon is a captivating tale that blends romance, sport, and personal growth in a seamless and engaging manner. This contemporary romance novel not only explores the dynamics of love but also delves into the resilience of the human spirit, making it an enthralling read for anyone who enjoys stories that touch the heart and stimulate the mind.
The narrative revolves around Elizabeth Clarke, a young and ambitious sports agent who is climbing the ladder in a predominantly male-dominated industry. Her latest challenge involves managing the career of charismatic football star, Cooper Jones, who is not just gifted on the field but notorious for his exploits off it. The professional relationship they build is the central theme of the story, but Veillon deftly turns a typical sports romance plot into something much deeper and more compelling.
Veillon’s writing is sharp and insightful. She has a unique ability to draw readers into the world she creates, through vivid descriptions and dialogue that feels both authentic and fresh. The settings range from high-stakes negotiation rooms and flashy sports events to intimate, quiet moments that peel back the layers of her characters. These transitions are handled with a finesse that maintains the rhythm of the story, keeping the reader deeply engaged throughout.
The character development in Going for Two is particularly noteworthy. Elizabeth, as the protagonist, is portrayed not merely as a love interest or a pristine heroine, but as a fully realized person. Her struggles are relatable, and her victories feel genuinely earned. Her relationship with Cooper evolves beautifully—from their initial dealings filled with skepticism and tension to a deeper bond influenced by mutual respect and understanding. Veillon excels at showing their growth not just as a couple but as individuals influenced by their interactions with each other and their surroundings.
Cooper Jones, on the other hand, is a character that could easily have been stereotyped as the typical sports hero. However, Veillon adds layers to his personality, illustrating his vulnerabilities, his fears, and his desires, making him much more than just a football star. His interactions with Elizabeth help in showcasing a man who is introspective and considerate, countering his public persona. This dichotomy adds a rich complexity to his character, making him particularly memorable and endearing.
The supporting characters are not left by the wayside either. From Elizabeth’s witty and steadfast assistant to Cooper's unyielding coach, each secondary character is well-crafted and contributes significantly to the storyline. Their interactions with the main characters do not merely serve to advance the plot, but also illuminate different facets of the main characters' personalities and the novel's themes.
One of the unique aspects of Going for Two is how it tackles the theme of sexism in sports. Elizabeth’s experiences as a woman in a field dominated by men are portrayed with a realism that is both frustrating and inspiring. The challenges she faces, from condescending remarks to being underestimated by her peers, are not just side notes but crucial elements of her narrative. Veillon uses these challenges not only to highlight Elizabeth’s perseverance and strength but also to subtly comment on broader societal issues.
The romance between Elizabeth and Cooper is crafted with a mature approach that is as realistic as it is endearing. Veillon avoids clichés and does not rush their romantic development, which adds a gratifying depth to their relationship. Their romantic scenes are tastefully written, combining sweetness with passion, and always respecting the individual growth trajectories of each character.
Overall, Going for Two by Marie Veillon is a delightful romance that will appeal to readers who appreciate a strong narrative, well-developed characters, and a story that balances romance with substantive personal and professional challenges. Through Elizabeth and Cooper, Veillon not only entertains but also inspires, making it a standout novel in the genre of contemporary romance. It is a heartfelt, motivating, and thoroughly enjoyable read that highlights the importance of resilience, respect, and finding strength in vulnerability.
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