Book Review: Play It Off by Monica Murphy
When I first dove into Play It Off, the second book in the Kings of Campus series by Monica Murphy, I could hardly contain my excitement. As a long-time fan of her work, I knew I was in for a treat, but this story truly exceeded my expectations. It’s not every day you get to experience a tangled web of emotions involving crushes, forbidden love, and the ever-present struggle of self-identity!
At the heart of Play It Off, we find Sienna and Gavin—two characters who almost leap off the page with their authentic struggles and palpable chemistry. Sienna is Coop’s younger sister, carrying the weight of unrequited feelings for her brother’s best friend, Gavin Maddox. This tale captures the longing and heartache of their untapped connection, which began (and seemingly ended) during Sienna’s freshman year. I could feel her pain, constantly comparing the boys she meets to the golden boy she can’t quite have. Gavin, on the other hand, is a senior trying to juggle the pressures of football and a complicated home life, all while wrestling with his feelings for the girl he believes he can’t pursue. The internal conflict each character experiences is incredibly relatable, pulling me deeper into their world.
Murphy’s writing style is fluid and engaging; she has an incredible knack for crafting dialogue that feels real. The pacing of the story kept my attention riveted, as I found myself turning pages at a breakneck speed. Even when the tension built to almost unbearable heights, I loved the moments of vulnerability that peeked through—especially when Gavin and Sienna navigated their complicated feelings for one another while grappling with the expectations placed on them.
The themes of forbidden love and the push-pull dynamic between the protagonists were executed impeccably. Sienna’s struggle to find her voice beyond her brother’s shadow resonated with me deeply. I think every reader has felt that desire to carve their own path, and Murphy captured that beautifully. The romantic tension was palpable and made every exchanged glance and whispered word feel electric. I found myself rooting for every stolen moment between them!
One of my favorite moments was when Gavin reflected on his jealousy and possessiveness, revealing how vulnerable he really was beneath that tough exterior. His journey struck me as an essential reminder that behind every ‘alpha’ facade is someone grappling with their own insecurities.
I devoured this book in one sitting—an undeniable testament to how captivating it is! If you enjoy best friend’s sister stories laced with forbidden love, sports romance, and a sprinkle of that sweet tension between love and rivalry, this book will be an absolute delight for you.
In conclusion, Play It Off not only offered a compelling love story but also left me thinking about personal growth and the complexities of love itself. If you’re looking to escape into a world of youthful passion, vulnerability, and the intricacies of navigating relationships, this book is definitely for you! Whether you’re a longtime fan of romance or simply looking for your next page-turner, Monica Murphy has crafted a narrative that feels both fresh and familiar. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!
Discover more about Play It Off (Kings of Campus, #2) on GoodReads >>