
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Reviewed by: Michelle
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

I swear there is something about small-town romance that has a way of bringing a smile to my face. Maybe it’s the characters or the simplicity of the story line. But either way, I adore reading this trope. And in Erin Kern’s latest upcoming release, Winner Takes All, she has scored major touchdown points in my book. This is the first book that I have read from this author and it surely won’t be my last.

Right off the opening pages, Ms. Kern introduces readers to a retired NFL quarterback, Blake Carpenter. Blake had it all from fame, money, and endorsements until everything came to an abrupt halt when a knee injury sidelined his career and soon rumors of performing enhancing drugs began to tarnish his image. As one of the leading quarterbacks in the NFL, Blake career’s comes spiraling down when the only career option left for him is coaching high school football. And in order to keep this job, he knows he has to leads his team to victory. With his eyes on leading his hometown high school team to the playoffs, Blake didn’t realize he might find himself blindsided by a gorgeous, feisty, and stubborn physical therapist hired by the district to help his team.

Annabelle Turner wants to win. And in order for this football team to have a winning season, she knows that these kids needs proper physical therapy and conditioning but the only problem is that Blake Carpenter is so stubborn. He doesn’t like to hear any of Annabelle’s suggestion that is until all the sexual attraction and tension built up. Will these two fiercely independent and strong personalities find themselves scoring off the field?

Blake and Annabelle have this hate/love relationship. It is either hot or cold when it comes to these two. Their banter was intense, sexy, and oh so palpable and readers like myself couldn’t wait till these two finally have to admit their true feelings for one another. As Blake and Annabelle slowly broke down each other’s wall, readers begin to see that these two are indeed a perfect match. Annabelle was able to see behind the fame, money, and scandal, Blake Carpenter is a good man with a heart of gold. But before these two could ride off to sunset, Blake must confront and come to terms when help is needed. Will Annabelle be able to help him or will Blake put her on the sidelines? And will Blake be able to lead his team to victory or will he discover victory ain’t sweet when you have no one to share it with?

Winner Takes All by Erin Kern was a sweet, charming, and playful small town romance. Ms. Kern was able to weave a heartwarming story line that was filled with banter, second chances, and sexual tension while pulling those heart strings as readers gotta see the real Blake Carpenter and Annabelle Turner. So if you are looking for a romance that has sports, family, second chances, and a winning love story then I suggest you give this book a try.

Erin Kern
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