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2026 Book 40 - Playing the Field by Becky Ward

It was cute but not overly memorable. When Lily’s local soccer team decides to move to another town, her family decide to start a new local team. The first few chapters are about her, her father, her sister, and other townsfolk working together to get the team off the ground. One of the players on their new team has a famous soccer player brother, named Ben Pryce. He is currently suspended for an altercation with a fan, so he spends his time cheering on his brother and wooing Lily. The book feels more Ted Lasso and less romance, but Lily and Ben have their moments. 

Ben is finally allowed to return to his team, but his publicist insists he be seen dating an up-and-coming actress to help Ben repair his image. This puts a strain on Ben and Lily’s relationship. It also felt very contrived to me. (7.75)

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