Cali Melle's Make Your Play is a contemporary romance novel that delves into the complexities of love, friendship, and unexpected life changes. The story is centered around a compelling premise: falling for your best friend’s brother while navigating the challenges of an unplanned pregnancy. This novel offers a fresh take on the marriage of convenience trope, blending emotional depth with light-hearted moments, making it a captivating read for fans of romance.

At the heart of the story is the protagonist, who finds herself in a precarious situation. Pregnant and abandoned by the child’s father, she faces the daunting task of managing her pregnancy alone. The added stress of inadequate health insurance coverage for maternity care introduces a real-world problem that many readers may find relatable. This aspect of the plot grounds the story in reality, making the protagonist's struggles feel genuine and urgent.

Enter Nash Simmons, the charming and successful hockey player who also happens to be the brother of the protagonist’s best friend. Nash is portrayed as the quintessential hero—kind-hearted, supportive, and willing to step up when needed. His proposal to marry the protagonist for insurance purposes is both a practical solution and a catalyst for the unfolding romance. The chemistry between Nash and the protagonist is palpable from the start, and Melle does an excellent job of building tension and anticipation as their relationship evolves.

One of the novel’s strengths is its character development. The protagonist is a well-rounded character who displays resilience and vulnerability in equal measure. Her journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she learns to navigate her new reality and embrace the unexpected turns her life has taken. Nash, on the other hand, is more than just a romantic interest. His character is fleshed out with depth and complexity, revealing layers of emotion and personal growth as he grapples with his feelings for the protagonist and the implications of their arrangement.

The supporting characters, including the protagonist’s best friend and Nash’s teammates, add richness to the narrative. They provide moments of humor and camaraderie, balancing the more serious themes of the story. The dynamics between these characters are well-crafted, offering insights into the importance of friendship and support systems during challenging times.

Themes of love, sacrifice, and family are woven throughout the novel. Melle explores the idea that family is not always defined by blood but by the connections we choose to nurture. The protagonist’s journey highlights the importance of accepting help and opening oneself up to love, even when it comes from unexpected places. The novel also touches on the societal pressures and judgments faced by single mothers, adding a layer of social commentary that enhances the story’s depth.

In terms of writing style, Melle employs a conversational tone that makes the novel accessible and engaging. Her descriptive prose brings the characters and settings to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the story. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the nuances of the characters’ relationships and adding authenticity to their interactions.

Comparatively, Make Your Play shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romances that explore the marriage of convenience trope, such as The Marriage Bargain by Jennifer Probst and Roomies by Christina Lauren. However, Melle’s novel stands out for its focus on real-world issues like healthcare and single parenthood, which add a layer of realism and relatability to the narrative.

Overall, Make Your Play is a heartwarming and emotionally resonant novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance. Its blend of humor, romance, and real-life challenges creates a compelling story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Melle’s ability to craft relatable characters and engaging plots ensures that readers will be invested in the protagonist’s journey from start to finish.

For those looking for a romance novel that offers more than just a love story, Make Your Play is a must-read. It’s a testament to the power of love and friendship in overcoming life’s obstacles and finding happiness in unexpected places.