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Rivalry by Lisa Suzanne
4.0

🎙️ AUDIO REVIEW 🎙️ 

💜 Enemies to Lovers 
🏈 Pro Football 
💜 Second Chance Romance 
🏈 Secret Relationship 
💜 Sports Romance 

Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 

Narrators: Aaron Shedlock | Samantha Brentmoor 

Rivalry by Lisa Suzanne is a sizzling second-chance romance filled with tension, unresolved feelings, and the complexities of family loyalty. The story centers on Jolene, who has just landed her dream job as the team correspondent for the Vegas Aces. The excitement of her new role, however, is dampened when she discovers that the team’s newly hired head coach is none other than Lincoln Nash—the man who broke her heart two decades earlier. 

The novel begins with an intriguing premise: a deep-seated family rivalry spanning twenty years. Jolene has been conditioned to hate the entire Nash family, making Lincoln’s arrival as the Aces’ head coach particularly complicated. But the twist that adds extra heat to the story is the fact that Lincoln wasn’t just any Nash; he was her first love. This shared history creates an intense emotional foundation that sets the stage for their unavoidable reunion. 

Lisa Suzanne does an excellent job of weaving together past and present, slowly revealing the reasons behind the family feud and the breakup between the two characters. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and their first reunion after nearly two decades crackles with tension. The challenge for Jolene is clear: she must keep things professional for the sake of her job, but her unresolved feelings for Lincoln make this increasingly difficult. 

Lincoln is portrayed as a complex character, shaped by the same rivalry that has driven Jolene’s family apart. His return to her life brings up old wounds but also reignites the passion that once connected them. Lisa Suzanne captures their emotional journey well, as both characters struggle to navigate their feelings in the context of their respective family loyalties and professional responsibilities. 

The dynamics of the family rivalry add depth to the story, making it more than just a second-chance romance. The pressure of maintaining her professionalism while being drawn to Lincoln creates a sense of urgency that propels the story forward. Jolene’s internal conflict—torn between loyalty to her family and her feelings for Lincoln—is well-developed and relatable. 

Lisa Suzanne’s writing style is engaging, with plenty of witty banter and steamy moments to keep readers invested. The pacing of the story is well-done, with just the right balance of tension and emotional release as the characters work through their complicated history. The sports setting adds an extra layer of excitement, but the true heart of the novel lies in the rekindling of the romance between Jolene and Lincoln. 

Overall, Rivalry is an entertaining and passionate read for fans of second-chance romance, particularly those who enjoy stories with strong emotional stakes and a mix of family drama. Lisa Suzanne’s ability to create relatable, complex characters and craft a romance that feels both intense and heartfelt makes this novel a standout in the sports romance genre. If you enjoy stories about forbidden love, unresolved tension, and the pull of the past, Rivalry is a must-read.