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


Before I begin my review, I think I should properly thank Ginger Scott for writing a YA sports romance that is so much more than just the game. Thank you for writing a story that tethers reader’s hearts to a story that shines brighter than Friday Night Lights. Hard Count was pure perfection. It was the quarterback sneak. It was the 40 yard dash to the end zone. It was the touchdown. This book was the catch that will forever be remembered. And how could this one book encompass what YA sports romance should be? It’s simple. Ginger Scott wrote a story that is more than executing romance in her playbook, she made readers FEEL. Feel the prejudice. Feel the hatred. Feel the jealousy. Feel the socioeconomic imbalance. Feel the passion. Feel the love. And most importantly feel the hope.

Nico Medina is smart, handsome, and a talented football star. He should have it all but the only thing that is stopping Nico from recognition is that he was born on the wrong side of the tracks. And so what happens when the kid from the West End falls in love with the football coach’s daughter? And what happens when a prestigious school and it’s alumni pressures the coach to change quarterbacks? Will Nico Medina be able to show people that no one can define and hold you back from fulfilling your dreams?




The Hard Count by Ginger Scott was a combination of Friday Night Lights, The WestSide Story, and Remember The Titans. In this awe-inspiring YA sports romance, Ginger Scott delivered a story that grips your hearts to see beyond the lights. She made readers see the injustice, the humanity, and most importantly see the big picture. Like any big game, life is about facing those obstacles. It’s about the dedication. The blood and sweat. And most importantly, it’s about the heart. And for Nico Medina he stole our hearts as he never wavered in his love for the girl on the right side of the tracks. So if you are looking for a story that was MORE than your high school sports romance then I highly recommend you read Hard Count.

Ginger Scott
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