Love breaks the offside rule in New York Times bestselling author Rachel Van Dyken’s irresistibly sexy Red Card romance. Successful, high-profile sports agent Matt Kingston thinks he can handle anything. Then soccer player Parker Speedman shows up at his door. She is young and gorgeous, has natural talent, and is looking for a team. She’s also a hothead with a punchy past who floored her last … who floored her last coach on live TV. Despite his misgivings, Matt agrees to be both her agent and her coach. Professional common sense says she’s off-limits. But what can he say about the raw attraction between them?
Parker plays soccer with her heart and soul. But after the events of the last year, she’s shaken. She’s already seen what a powerful man can do to a female athlete’s career. And her beloved dream is in the hands of a sexy, gorgeous man with the uncanny ability to slip past her defenses…and into her heart.
Now Matt and Parker are about to learn that when it comes to love, the only way to win is by breaking every rule they know. And by playing nice. Real nice.
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Spectacular read! Kickin’ It is a perfect example of everything I LOVE about Rachel Van Dyken’s work. She is hands down my favorite author. IF you are in the mood for a witty, super funny, sweet, sexy sports romance – one click now! You’ll fall in love with Matt & Parker and the rest of the supporting cast of phenomenal characters including Willow and Jagger.
I adore how she artfully constructs these intelligently planned out storylines with complex, unique characters. She writes the BEST witty banter and hilarity ever. Yet she layers her humor and these fantastic characters with a serious issue that is real and relatable. She writes this all with the utmost class and grace.
Evokes all the feels – covers the entire spectrum. From laugh out loud funny moments to a cry in fear or emotional pain AND then expertly executed, delicious angst and build up. ((Whistles)) All beautifully articulated making this book another, amongst a long list of her books, I simply cannot put down. Once I start – I am consumed and reach for it every chance I get.
This book was the most perfect for today’s society. It was strength, bravery, love, fight, blood, sweat, and tears. I cannot say enough good things about this book. Van Dyken made something refreshing and I definitely recommend this book to everyone who enjoys sport romances, tough chicks, and the ability to rise through pain. This is a testament to empowering women. One of the best books I read in 2019.
I was very excited to read this book after reading Risky Play (they are both stand alones but contain the same group of friends). I loved Matt and Parker. Parker is the best friend of Matt’s sister Willow and in need of a sports agent to try to get a professional soccer deal. On the surface, she seems angry, but we learn there is a reason behind her outbursts. The interaction with Matt, Slade and especially Jagger are laugh out loud funny but this book has a very important underlying message. I can’t recommend this enough!
I love this book. Matt is sexy. Parker is strong and beautiful. Matt and his sister had me cracking up. I had to know what happened to Parker. Through her training, it had me tired with all the stuff she had to do. Matt and Parker’s friendship is amazing. Highly recommend this book. I couldn’t put this down. Amazing. This book had me at the first page.
“[I] wondered how I could save her when she refused to be the girl who needed saving.”
This book takes my breath away just thinking about it. I absorbed every single word and locked it away in a special place in my brain. I loved the first book Risky Play, but if possible, I may love Kickin’ It even more!
Matt is a sports agent, and Parker is an athlete. They’re a strong team together on and off the field! And one of the things I enjoyed the most about this story was that Parker is a very talented soccer player. The heroines aren’t often the athletes, in my reading experiences, so this was a very nice and empowering change of pace for me.
Beyond that, Matt is angry and wound up. Parker is angry as well, but she’s troubled and haunted by her past that needs to be dealt with. Together, Matt and Parker are FIRE. They have fantastic and sizzling chemistry. Their banter is hilarious, witty, and quick. Their relationship is a complex mixture of professional and personal, tense and compassionate, and hot and sweet. Basically – EVERYTHING that is right in romance.
“She had lifeboats surrounding her and yet she was still drowning. I could try to be one of those lifeboats… or I could end up sinking right along with her.”
My heart hurt for Parker, and the more her story unraveled, the more I hurt. She confronts a very difficult issue. The book in general tackles this issue very well. It’s emotional and moving. It’s important.
And you need Kickin’ It in your life! A definite must read.
Overall Rating:
I have actually been sitting on this review for a week or so. Or rather, I’ve been mulling Rachel Van Dyken’s newest book, Kickin’ It, since I finished reading it a week ago. From the time I started it until I finished it (which, by the way, happened to be one day), I was engrossed in the story from its outset.
In the world of #metoo and the push for equality between the sexes, this book is necessary in the romance world. Let’s be honest. There are so many moments when romance readers must suspend their disbelief over the treatment of a woman in a story. I am a personal fan of BDSM and dark romance books because they allow me to live in a world that, I’m fairly certain, I will never exist. For a small time, I can imagine it, but it never becomes my reality. However, there are many instances when women are treated like possessions or worse in romance books. And we accept it because it is fiction.
Yet, there is a bigger reality in our world and in our time. Women are taken advantage of by people of power, most oftentimes, men. This is wrong and dangerous and disgusting. Van Dyken’s newest book gives voice to this problem in a way that gives me hope for our future, for change.
Parker is a graduated college soccer player who is looking for her big break on a professional team. Unfortunately, the “buzz” surrounding her suggests she’s a “problem” player. She’s been accused of erratic behavior, which makes her a liability to any team. Thankfully, her roommate’s, brother, Matt, is a seasoned, well-known sports agent, and Willow (her roommate) has promised Parker that she will ask Matt to represent Parker to find her the best contract with a pro team.
Matt lives a comfortable life at the top of his game as an agent. At first sight, he’s unimpressed with Parker, believing her to be a problem client. She is brash and outspoken. Even more problematic, he is instantly attracted to her which causes problems for their living arrangement and representation. However, he suppresses his interest in her and begins to work for her. Very quickly, Matt comes to realize that Parker harbors a secret, one she hides carefully from everyone (including Willow). When he finds out her secret, will this end their work relationship, or will he believe her and protect her at all costs?
There is so much I want to say about this book, and I struggle to find all the words to say it. For one, Parker is one of my favorite heroines to date. She’s strong and capable and tragic and sensual in a way that is understated. She’s incredibly athletic, and her strength on the field matches her inner strength to persevere. She has been taken gross advantage of, and she should be devastated. Instead, she utilizes tenacity to stand in the face of fear. I loved her from the beginning through the middle to the end of this story, and she’s a necessary heroine today.
Similarly, Matt is the quintessential hero. In this book, important people in Parker’s life have let her down. They’ve betrayed her trust in them, and it’s damaged her. Matt is the first male in this book to truly “see” her. I have to admit. That is always one of my favorite parts in a romance. In Van Dyken’s book, it made me cry because I knew it was necessary that Parker be seen, especially by a male. He is stalwart, aggressive when necessary, thoughtful, and compassionate, all the qualities men need today to bring about change in our society. To be honest, it isn’t surprising within the realm of this story and Van Dyken’s former book, Risky Play, where Matt plays a large part in bringing the H and h together. Yet, he is fairly neurotic and set in his ways, so I was initially worried that he couldn’t be strong enough for Parker. And I was wrong, thankfully.
For all of the angst of this story, it is also incredibly funny. Matt’s chemistry with his clients/friends, Jagger and Slade, are some of the best interactions in the book. His sister, Willow, also lends humor to the story, which is a refreshing break from the headiness of the book’s story. This book is equal parts funny, serious, and sweet, the reasons I could not put it down.
I really cannot say enough about Rachel Van Dyken’s book, Kickin’ It. I know my personal preference is romances with serious topics that force readers to ponder on the gravity of life’s complications. Van Dyken’s book adds more voices to these necessary discussions. If you love sports romance with a little “meat” to its story, then you definitely will want to read Kickin’ It.
4.5 STARS!!!
One thing about this author books are that they never disappoint. I have never read a book from this author that I haven’t enjoyed. Parker and Matt’s story is a best friends older brother romance. It’s one that is full of sexual tension, great family and friends, laughs, back and forth banter, drama and so much more. I enjoyed every character in this story but Erik. His used his authority to abuse others and he got what he deserved in the end. I enjoyed Jagger and Willow a lot and I’m hoping for a book with their story. The ending was sweet and left me with a smile on my face. I look forward to reading more books from this author and I’ll definitely be recommending this one to my family and friends looking for a great romance.
Rachel kicked my excitement into high gear with this story because I couldn’t wait for Matt’s book. This story made me laugh and smile so much as the story unfolded. I even rolled my eyes and freaked out a time or two. Parker was bada$$ and vulnerable all in one amazing package. I was so proud of her. Matt was sexy, bossy and sweet and tender all rolled into one enticing man. Then add in some of the other characters in this series who prove friendship and loyalty can change and enhance your life and my day was made. This story is fantastic because it reminds you to stand up for yourself and others, refuse to back down and follow your heart while you chase your dreams. Rachel, Kickin It is refreshing, sexy, empowering and full of love!
Matt is a successful sports agent and his sister wants to follow in his food steps. When his sister and her friend Parker come to his house it turns everything upside down. Parker wants to get back into playing soccer and wants Matt to be her agent. There’s only one problem, the sexual tension is high between them. Can they keep things professional or will they take the leap?
While this is the second book in the Red Card series it can be read on a stand alone basis.
I really enjoyed this book. Matt and Parker were a fab couple and just had the best chemistry. The story itself was a real page turner. It was fun and romantic but it had a real emotional kick with a serious edge to one of the storylines. As with all of RVD’s books, I just devoured this story and could not put it down. This is a definite recommendation from me.
Matt Kingston is the best sports agent around, but he has his hands full with his athlete clients. So when his little sister Willow asks to work for him and bring her friend along he is not exactly thrilled.
Parker Speedman loves soccer, but has not had the best last year or so. So when her friend Willow says something about her brother possibly being able to help
Parker, she take her up on it.
I really loved reading Kickin It. It was a fun read that had me laughing out loud. The Banter between the characters was great! There was definitely some serious scenes when the characters had serious issues they were dealing with, however it all blended together some smoothly and made an amazing read. There was also a sexy feel throughout the book. I love the determination and drive that Parker and Matt have as well. There was not anything about this book that I did not like, it captivated me the whole time. I would highly recommend this book!!
Kickin It is a fun and sexy book with some emotional moments that will grab you and suck you into this book! Matt and Parker are an amazing couple. I enjoyed watching them turn from a grumpy old man and a sassy woman to a couple so in love! I love the forbidden romance part of it, the sports agent/client who shouldn’t be together. The secondary characters were outstanding and I enjoyed seeing Slade and Mack (from Risky Play) again as well! Great fun, great laughs and great sexy times make Kickin It a GREAT read!
Parker and Matt, their story doesn’t start as the regular way, Parker a soccer player finds herself living with Matt a successful sport agent, she needs an agent, he finally agrees and sets himself as her coach as well, it should be an off-limits, but the attraction and chemistry between them is not to be ignored. A perfect sport romance where the lines are blurring and your heart just keep on skipping.
Kickin’ It by Rachel Van Dyken is book two in the Red Card series. Book one followed Mackenzie and Slade’s story, and this book follows Parker and Matt’s story. We first met Matt in Risky Play. He’s a high-powered sports agent who has been around pro soccer players for a long time. He also used to be a pro soccer player. Parker was a college soccer star before she––very publicly––punched her coach, and now, she needs Matt to help her appeal to pro teams and save her fledgling career. Oh…and she’s his little sister’s best friend.
Yes, I am reviewing another Rachel Van Dyken book. What can I say? I have been a huge fan of her writing for over five years now. And Kickin’ It did NOT disappoint! Despite a pretty heavy duty social issue that is addressed in Kickin’ It, in typical Rachel Van Dyken style, there are some hilariously sarcastic comments thrown around in these pages. I’m a fairly sarcastic person, so this aspect of her writing style has always appealed to me. But I do know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. However, there is another aspect of her writing that appeals to me, as well. What I love most about her characters is that she makes them seem pretty superficial at the beginning of each story, but in reality, they are so very complex. Matt and Parker are most definitely very complex characters. Both have been defined by very lonely pasts…despite their accomplishments. At least Matt has had his sister, Willow, in his life. Unfortunately, Parker’s father has never had much to do with her, and she has no siblings, so she feels quite alone in the world. Can these two overcome some pretty giant obstacles in order to be together and have the future they both dream of having…both personally and professionally?
NICUnurse’s Rating: With characters that are deep and complex, a story that will bring you to tears for Parker, and some truly laugh out loud moments with Willow and Jagger, Kickin’ It by Rachel Van Dyken is sure to score big with contemporary sports romance fans! I give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars!
I accidentally went on a Rachel Van Dyken mini-binge this week when my audio of The Matchmaker’s Replacement overlapped with my read of Kickin’ It, and if there’s one thing I can say for certain? It’s that Ms. Van Dyken is a banter master.
Seriously.
Banter is one of my favorite displays of chemistry in romance and it is so on point in this book. I loved the spirited antagonism at the beginning and how – even as it mellowed (or perhaps melted) into something more tender and emotional – it never truly went away. Matt and Parker were smart, funny, fiery characters and they were perfectly suited for each other.
I loved the dynamic among the little tribe that formed in this book. The bromance was satisfying and funny, and I liked the way they all took turns at coaching Parker: both in soccer and in life. There’s a lightness to this story, even though it’s layered with a decidedly more traumatic and heavier secondary story. I loved how Ms. Van Dyken addressed the issues, lifting Parker up, empowering her, and showing her as a remarkably strong heroine with flaws. That’s relatable. That’s lovable. And in the end, it’s what held me captive to this highly addictive story.
Well, that and the chemistry. Did I mention the chemistry? I loved the chemistry!
I loved a lot about this book, actually. The easy storytelling, the smart writing, the wonderful characters – it was a pretty fantastic package for me and I definitely recommend! ~ 4.5 Stars
I read a lot of angsty books, darker romance stories, and anything that pushes you outside your comfort zone. When I want a “pallet cleanser” or something to just break up the flow of darker stories – I pick up something lighter. Rachel is great at delivering the lighter, heart-warming, fun romance I’m looking for when I need it.
This is the follow up to Risky Play, which was book 1 in the Red Card series. They are both stand-alone books but reading them both are better in my opinion. I loved getting inside Matt Kingston’s head. He was one of my favorites from the first book. The rest of the guys are in this book, and I just love those guys. I really hope we get Jagger’s book next.
This is fun, flirty, and sweet. Rachel delivers a book full of her signature banter, swoony moments, and smoking hot chemistry. I thoroughly enjoyed this latest release in the Red Card series.
This. This is the book that we need right now. It’s relevant and meaningful. The characters are filled with love and passion, laughter and strength. In this time of #metoo, this story needs to be told.
Rachel Van Dyken weaves a beautiful story of heart and strength to give us a love story that feels true to life. Matt and Parker’s banter and the evolution of their love makes this book a winner. The addition of Willow’s humor and Jagger’s annoying-ness make it just that much better of a story.
The passion in this story makes you root for the underdog, want the best for her, and cheer when she gets what she deserves. I both laughed and cried while reading Kickin’ It, and I was most definitely cheering for Parker all the way through the story.
Rachel Van Dyken brings a special kind of heart to her stories and this one is certainly relevant to the here and now. Another fantastic read and one not to be missed.
5 Stars
Let me just start off by saying, even as someone who doesn’t usually gravitate towards sports romances, this book was soooooo amazing! It is the perfect balance of romance, sports, and also a serious issue that Parker has to face. Kickin’ It addresses the topic of sexual abuse, specifically in an athletic environment. It’s the unfortunate and sad truth that this stuff happens and I love Parker so much for being so brave and standing up for herself and all the other men and women who are hurt by these tragedies. This book is a light in the darkness to remind us all that we are not alone, and there is support out there for everyone.
Now on to the happier parts! This book is so fun! I seriously was laughing out loud. I fell in love with Matts hilarious convos between the guys in Risky Play and this book did not disappoint with giving me more of that! I hope Jagger gets his own book next. And also I think now I need to go reread Slades book. I love these characters so much and I know you will too!
Also, I may or may not have squealed like a 13 year old at the EE surprise mention!! 😛
Kickin’ It is the second book in the Red Card series by the very talented, Rachel Van Dyken. It can be read as a standalone. If you read Risky Play then you have met Slade and Jaggar’s friend and agent Matt Kingston. The most sought after sports agent in the country. And he is about to get a new client, his sister’s best friend, Parker Speedman.
Parker needs an agent. The problem is that nobody will touch her after she punched her college couch on National television. That was until she met Matt Kingston. The agent of all agents and she was living under his roof for the summer thanks to his sister and her best friend, Willow. While Willow interns for Matt, Parker is in training. With Matt. The sexy asshole who could be the man to help her with her dreams of going pro. Soccer is her passion. She plays with mind, body, and soul. She just needed someone to be on her side. To believe in her. What she didn’t expect was to want him so much.
Matt knew she was off-limits. She was not only a client but his sister’s best friend. There is also the age difference. Eight years. She was a very mature twenty-two year old but he was thirty. He wanted her to have everything she worked so hard for but can he keep his hands to himself? Parker was everything he never knew he wanted. She was sassy, beautiful inside and out, and was full of passion. But, is being together worth the risk?
I loved this one! Parker is sassy AF and knows exactly how to push Matt’s buttons. She always knows how to get the stick out of his ass. She relaxes him. Intrigues him. And he wants her. Badly. And I love Matt! He can be an asshole but a good one. He is also sweet, sexy, and funny. Together, their banter is flirty, sassy, and heat.
Overall…I loved every minute of it. Once I started I didn’t want to stop and really…I didn’t. It had it all. It made me laugh, cry, and swoon. I am excited about what is up next in the series.
Quotes:
Make the world your oyster. And if that doesn’t work? Make it your bitch.
“His neck vein is throbbing,” Willow said in a hushed whisper as she drummed her fingernails across the granite counter. “I would tread carefully.”
“Prove it and I’ll get you everything.”
“That’s a mighty big promise, Matt Kingston.”
This book has everything from real life situations that unfortunately do happen to you laughing out loud and a strong heroine. Matt, you have met if you read Risky Play, is an agent and a good one at that. Parker is a good soccer player fresh out of college with a reputation because she punched her coach at the championship game. Matt’s sister Willow is friends with Parker and drags her with her to Seattle and turns Matt’s life upside down for many reasons.
If you read Risky Play Slade and Jagger don’t disappoint, Willow has a way with people and convincing everyone she has great plans. And Matt yeah he doesn’t expect to be taken with the girl everyone is leery of in the sports world. This book is a page turner that will keep engaged and wanting to know what happens next to the last page.