Sneaking Around with the Player by Rebecca Jenshak

Incredibly sweet with plenty of fun banter but definitely some angst too, this Christmas-themed college sports romance is delightfully swoony. Although we were first introduced to Beau and Stella in the first book, we finally get to find out how they first met in an airport and totally hit it off. They developed a fast friendship that eventually turned into more, and then at Christmastime we find out their sides of the story when their fairly secret relationship gets found out in a rather volatile way. The problem they have is that Beau and Felix, Stella’s brother, have been football rivals for ages, and it’s well known that they don’t get along. The whole situation leaves Beau and Stella’s relationship in a sort of limbo. Will everyone be able to learn to get along so Beau and Stella can be together, or will the stress be too much?

We originally met Stella in the first novella in the Holiday with the Player duo, and I liked her character right away. She’s outgoing and cheery and perfect for Beau who’s adorable and very sweet with her. I enjoyed the drama that surrounded their relationship, since it provided that much needed conflict to the storyline. These two are so good for one another that the addition of the rivalry between Beau and Felix adds just the right amount of interest between them.

Also, I love that we got to revisit the characters from the first book. Felix’s friends are entertaining, and I adored getting to see more of the sibling dynamic between Stella, her twin Holly, and Felix play out. Their family is just the cutest, especially about Christmas, and the way they’re always there for each other is endearing.

So, if you love college sports romances like I do and are in the mood for something with a Christmas vibe, then check out Sneaking Around with the Player. It’s such a fun and lighthearted story with some angst throughout, and I completely recommend it.