Special thanks to Jaqueline Snowe for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review!

TL;DR: This book was just too freaking cute. It was like a shot of sunshine and happiness straight into my veins because it was a sweet, feel-good, low-drama, low-angst romance. Mack and Dean were so good together and I loved their healthy communication and the playfulness of their romance! If you’re a seasonal reader and are looking for a book to add to your summer reading list, you don’t want to miss out on this because it’s perfect for the summer and it will make you want to fall in love!

Mack and Dean were so great together and I found their romance super sweet. Was it a little instalove? Sure, at least on Dean’s part since Mack had feelings for him for a long time. But when he finally takes notice of her this summer, their chemistry explodes and they fit so well together. Not only do they bring each other a sense of comfort but they create a net of trust, safety, and tenderness and give each other so much support. There’s no badmouthing themselves while they’re together and there’s not one moment of doubt that they’re spouting empty platitudes. It was a very wholesome romance, even with their very steamy sexual journey, which of course, was also a lot of fun to read because they were so playful together! I love the way Dean brings out Mack’s sassy mischievous side and the way Mack grounds Dean and makes him feel seen and understood.

Their journey both emotionally and sexually was very fulfilling and it was nice to see them both grow, let down their guards and most importantly, be open and communicative! I was worried when Dean had trouble opening up at the start but he eventually spoke his truth and that created more space for healthy communication between them. When Dean and Mack said no lies, they both meant it and we stan! 😍 For all those third-act-breakup haters out there, you’ll be happy to know that this is a third-act-free romance! I mean, there was a tiny baby bump *cough* of a third-act but it didn’t require pulling all the breaks and it resulted in even more healthy communication. Ah, I loved it.

As much time as Mack and Dean spent together over this summer falling in love, I was also happy that we got to spend a lot of time with their friend group. It was nice to be back with Lo and Luca (who’s still as grumpy as ever!) and to also get to know Callum, Vee, Ale and Ollie a little better. They’re such a great friend group and I couldn’t imagine a better summer than spending it together the way they did.

Another thing that I highly appreciate about this sports romance series by Snowe is that it not only talks about male athletes and football specifically, but she shines a bright light on female athletes, especially women’s soccer. I love how the passion for women’s sports shone through Mack’s character. Her enthusiasm and pride in talking about soccer, how much work goes into succeeding at the same level as their male counterparts, and how people can support women in sports was infectious! It’s so refreshing to read a sports romance that’s not just about the MMC being heavily into sports but the FMC as well, and watching them learn to find a balance in their hectic lives by making the time for each other and prioritizing their relationship, all without having to sacrifice the careers they’ve both worked so hard toward.

Overall, this was such a fun, fast-paced, playful summer romance that I can’t wait to actually read in the summer on the beach with a cold drink in my hand while I watch these two dorks falling in love all over again!

Have you read The Summer Playbook or is it on your TBR?

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