Review: Guarding Sophie (Love and Football #5.5) by Julie Brannagh

Hearts beat and sparks fly when two people find shelter in each other

Seattle Sharks wide receiver Kyle Carlson needs to escape and Noel, Washington, is the perfect place for him to do it and figure out his next step. He likes the seclusion and predictability of the small town…until the biggest surprise of his life turns up in the local grocery store.

Sophie Hayes has her own reasons for disappearing without a trace and moving to Noel. This mountain town makes her feel safe for the first time in a long time. But her quiet routine is threatened when Kyle walks back into her life. Growing up in the same Florida town, she always had a little thing for the sexy football player. This tie to her old life, though, could mean she has to run again, even if her heart wants to stay.

When the reason she fled shows up in Noel, Kyle and Sophie, with a little extra help from his teammates, must decide to stay and fight for the life, and love, they’ve found together.

Kindle Edition

Expected publication: November 10th 2015 by Avon Impulse

Terri's Thoughts

**I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Avon via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.  The expected publication date is November 10th, 2015**

Although part of a series this can be read as a stand alone.  I have not read any of the others and it in no way impacted this story other than mentioning some character which I am assuming were introduced in previous stories.  This is a short novella which I believe was to add some additional storylines for some of these characters.

If you enjoy stories that deal with couple that always wondered what could have been and then have the opportunity to find out then this is the story for you.  It shows how time does not necessarily change feelings.  I really enjoyed how the couple proceeded with caution once they were able to connect again.

This story moves very fast and sometimes seemed a little over the top (Sophie's ex) however still gave that taste of romance one is seeking.  Also, the story is relatively clean for those who prefer the storyline a little less steamy.  It does have sexual content however Brannagh leaves it for the imagination mostly without going in to graphic detail.  This was a little bit refreshing.

Due to the short length I can't disclose anymore however I can say I really wish I knew this football team.  It seems like a great group of guys to spend some Saturday afternoons reading about.  Overall a good read.

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Julie Brannagh has been writing since she could hold a pencil. She lives in a small town near Seattle, where she once served as a city council member and owned a yarn shop. She shares her home with a wonderful husband, two uncivilized Maine Coons and a rambunctious chocolate Lab.

When she's not writing, she's reading--or armchair-quarterbacking her favorite NFL team from the comfort of the family room couch. Julie is a Golden Heart finalist and the author of six contemporary sports romances.

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