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The Rookie : The Seattle Ironbacks Football Sports Romance
Troy
I thought I knew what I wanted—football, my family, maybe even love. But nothing prepared me for how complicated it would all become. Meeting Charlotte changed everything. Suddenly, the game wasn’t just on the field; it was about being the man she needs when her world starts to fracture. The burdens she carries, the fears she can’t let go of… I see them weighing her down every time she tries to push me away. She’s waiting for me to run, convinced I’m just another person who will disappear when things get messy. But she doesn’t realize I’m already home. I’m not looking for perfect—I’m looking for her, and I’m not going anywhere.
Charlotte
I never trusted that good things could last. Then Troy crashed into my life, and nothing felt safe or simple again. Now, with the truth about my sister’s collapse and a letter from my past finally surfacing, the walls I’ve built for protection are starting to crumble. I’ve always tried to be the strong one, but there’s a weight building inside me that I don’t know how to name—and it’s getting harder to breathe. I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop, for someone to leave. My fear and past experiences haunt me. But maybe, just maybe, I’ll trust him to love me—maybe someone’s love can be permanent.
I thought I knew what I wanted—football, my family, maybe even love. But nothing prepared me for how complicated it would all become. Meeting Charlotte changed everything. Suddenly, the game wasn’t just on the field; it was about being the man she needs when her world starts to fracture. The burdens she carries, the fears she can’t let go of… I see them weighing her down every time she tries to push me away. She’s waiting for me to run, convinced I’m just another person who will disappear when things get messy. But she doesn’t realize I’m already home. I’m not looking for perfect—I’m looking for her, and I’m not going anywhere.
Charlotte
I never trusted that good things could last. Then Troy crashed into my life, and nothing felt safe or simple again. Now, with the truth about my sister’s collapse and a letter from my past finally surfacing, the walls I’ve built for protection are starting to crumble. I’ve always tried to be the strong one, but there’s a weight building inside me that I don’t know how to name—and it’s getting harder to breathe. I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop, for someone to leave. My fear and past experiences haunt me. But maybe, just maybe, I’ll trust him to love me—maybe someone’s love can be permanent.
524 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
this book is hands down my favorite out of the 3! this book absolutely gutted me i was in tears! the way she wrote this made u feel every bit of the emotions with Charlie and Troy! the powerful way she made u feel the need in mental illness and how soul wrecking it can be! I felt every single emotion through out this book! it is absolutely outstanding! it was shown how no matter how much u love someone you have to remember your just as important at the other! that is ok to not be ok! this book really got to me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, I received as an ARC from the Author. The emotional roller-coaster this was. I loved that it explained Troy and Charlotte's mental health and them both finding each other again for the better. This was a perfect book 3 it fit so well. I loved how they met and didnt know about the other even when everyone thought something different and they fought so hard for each other. And the spice..Just the perfect amount for this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
~Arc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
~The Rookie~The Seattle Ironbacks Book 3~Alexandra Shaw~
♡I knew I loved Troy & Charlie from the previous two books in this series but I didn’t think thier story would take the number one spot for this series but I devoured it in one sitting! Troy falls hard & fast while Charlie is cautious & runs from commitment.
This book is heavy on mental health struggles but Alex incorporated the mental health aspect of this book with kindness & patience. I felt so many real & raw emotions while reading this story at one point I was laughing & crying at the same time.
I can't wait to see what Alex has up her sleeve next & I'm looking forward to reading more of her work in the future!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
~The Rookie~The Seattle Ironbacks Book 3~Alexandra Shaw~
♡I knew I loved Troy & Charlie from the previous two books in this series but I didn’t think thier story would take the number one spot for this series but I devoured it in one sitting! Troy falls hard & fast while Charlie is cautious & runs from commitment.
This book is heavy on mental health struggles but Alex incorporated the mental health aspect of this book with kindness & patience. I felt so many real & raw emotions while reading this story at one point I was laughing & crying at the same time.
I can't wait to see what Alex has up her sleeve next & I'm looking forward to reading more of her work in the future!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ — 4.5 Stars
This book was so much fun. I started The Rookie thinking I’d read a chapter… and suddenly I’m halfway in, kicking my feet and giggling like I’m 19 again 😭🔥.
Troy is the ultimate soft-hearted athlete.... big, focused, protective, and lowkey obsessed with the girl from the moment he meets her. And Charlotte? My chaotic, anxious, funny queen. She overthinks everything, but she’s smart, goofy, and impossible not to love. Their grumpy/sunshine dynamic?? AMAZING. The banter, the tension, the “I’m trying not to fall for you but it’s already too late” vibes had me screaming 😭💗🔥.
The romance is sweet and spicy in equal amounts, the side characters are adorable, and the found-family moments made my heart warm.
The only reason it's not a full 5 is a couple small drama moments that felt a little extra... but honestly? Didn’t even matter. I devoured this.
If you love sports romance + big feelings + big chemistry, THE ROOKIE delivers 🏈💋✨.
This book was so much fun. I started The Rookie thinking I’d read a chapter… and suddenly I’m halfway in, kicking my feet and giggling like I’m 19 again 😭🔥.
Troy is the ultimate soft-hearted athlete.... big, focused, protective, and lowkey obsessed with the girl from the moment he meets her. And Charlotte? My chaotic, anxious, funny queen. She overthinks everything, but she’s smart, goofy, and impossible not to love. Their grumpy/sunshine dynamic?? AMAZING. The banter, the tension, the “I’m trying not to fall for you but it’s already too late” vibes had me screaming 😭💗🔥.
The romance is sweet and spicy in equal amounts, the side characters are adorable, and the found-family moments made my heart warm.
The only reason it's not a full 5 is a couple small drama moments that felt a little extra... but honestly? Didn’t even matter. I devoured this.
If you love sports romance + big feelings + big chemistry, THE ROOKIE delivers 🏈💋✨.
February 5, 2026
Arc read
Read/listen to The Coach then read The Quarterback before you read this book.
This one we learn more about Travis and see him in a different light that isn’t just horny for his wife.
It’s raw and so very real
Charlotte and Troy meet and have a 48hr stand, but anxiety messes things up for the both of them. This normalizes therapy and medications, and shows how communication is so important in relationships.
Usually I won’t read something that has a break up in it because of how forced that breakup feels. Their ups and downs are necessary for their growth and if you are a “Friends” fan there is a hilarious reference that everyone is thinking!
Read/listen to The Coach then read The Quarterback before you read this book.
This one we learn more about Travis and see him in a different light that isn’t just horny for his wife.
It’s raw and so very real
Charlotte and Troy meet and have a 48hr stand, but anxiety messes things up for the both of them. This normalizes therapy and medications, and shows how communication is so important in relationships.
Usually I won’t read something that has a break up in it because of how forced that breakup feels. Their ups and downs are necessary for their growth and if you are a “Friends” fan there is a hilarious reference that everyone is thinking!
Review of advance copy
in this book, Charlie deals with trust issues and anxiety. from the perspective of somebody who has dealt with trust issues and anxiety, I felt like the book was well written in the issues and the treatment of the issues. the main male character is very patient and helps deal with the anxiety in a way that the main female character needs it. definitely a tear-jerker so you're going to need your tissues and you're just going to have to read it and see how it goes. be sure to read the coach and the quarterback in the ironback series first and then this one as it's the final chapter. it's the end of the era.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, this was definitely my favorite book of The Ironback series 💯 I loved every moment!!! All of Alexandra Shaw's books are real, raw and powerful. But this one hit home hard for me and made me feel very very seen! Dealing with anxiety and other mental health issues is extremely hard and taxing on a daily basis, but having people that love and except you no matter what absolutely helps....it took me a long time to find those people. Being able to read a book and to relate to a character about this stuggle was absolutely AMAZING. Thank you Alex! ❤️
Review of advance copy
This book is the perfect ending to the trilogy so you have to read the first 2 books first. This is not a standalone. You definitely need to know your triggers because this book deals with some heavy but much needed topics brought to light, for example one is dealing with mental illness in silence and feeling alone. You get to see a relationship that sticks with it through the good and bad times which more people need to be reminded of that we don't always have good days with the ones we love. We have bad days that we need to fight through and stick with one another and help each other through. I highly recommend this book.
February 7, 2026
I love the story; it made me cry several times. I like Tory because he's a great character, and I can relate to Charlie a little. Travis is amazing, and it can I know the story made me laugh at times. I love all the characters, especially Gary. It’s wonderful to end the series, and I will definitely reread it. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alexandra Shaw, you did it again! This was an amazing read. It made me laugh and it also made me cry! I love Charlotte and Troy! There was love , mental illness, forgiveness, spice and some tears in this book! I couldn't put this book down! Thumbs up for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice Level: 🌶🌶.5
This is a wonderful sports romance that does a great job of delicately addressing mental health. The MMC is a golden retriever and the FMC shows you realness.
He falls first and hard.
Dom/Sub kink is in the 2nd half of the book.
Spice Level: 🌶🌶.5
This is a wonderful sports romance that does a great job of delicately addressing mental health. The MMC is a golden retriever and the FMC shows you realness.
He falls first and hard.
Dom/Sub kink is in the 2nd half of the book.
February 12, 2026
Wow! I couldn’t put this book down! Just like every book I’ve read from Alexandra it is engulfing! Charlotte and Troy were both amazing characters! The emotion in this book specifically for Charlotte was written so well. The ending was absolutely perfect for this book!
Review of advance copy
this book is my favorite book of this author. so much I can relate to the fmc. this author displayed the depression trope to an amazing read!! And how much people are shunned
Review of advance copy
oh my gosh this is my favorite of this series. I love this book, the emotional depth, the talk of mental health, the struggles with managing all that and a new relationship. Alexandra does a beautiful job of showing how the two main characters Troy and Charlotte grow together and separately. I highly recommend this book, it's the best way to close out a series like this.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This had me hooked from chapter 5. it was a beautiful blend of spice and mental health awareness. This book made me feel seen. Sad to see this series come to an end but this was a great way to end the series
February 22, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. i love all Alexandra Shaw books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, what an emotional roller-coaster! I was sobbing. Troy and Charlie's story, I think was my favorite of the three! I can't wait for the physical copy to come out so I can add it to my other two. Alexandra Shaw is one of my favorite authors!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A beautifully honest romance about healing, accountability, and loving someone through their imperfections
The Rookie is one of those rare romances that doesn’t just entertain — it understands. Alexandra Shaw writes with a tenderness and emotional clarity that makes this story feel lived-in, raw, and deeply human.
At its core, this book is about growth through struggle. It’s about choosing someone not because they’re perfect, but because you see their whole self — the bright parts, the bruised parts, and the parts still learning how to breathe. Charlotte’s severe anxiety and mild depression aren’t treated as quirks or plot devices; they’re portrayed with honesty and compassion. And Troy? He loves her with those imperfections, not in spite of them.
Their relationship isn’t flawless, and Shaw never pretends it is. When Troy is violated by a stranger who breaks into his hotel room and steals from him, the emotional fallout is real and painful. Instead of comforting him, Charlie spirals inward, overwhelmed by her own fears, and asks for a break. It’s messy, human, and heartbreaking — and it forces Troy to consider his own mental health for once, not just everyone else’s.
That’s what makes this book so powerful. Shaw shows that love isn’t about sacrificing yourself until there’s nothing left. It’s about boundaries, therapy, forgiveness, and choosing to move forward together. The way she normalizes therapy — not as a last resort, but as an act of strength — is genuinely refreshing.
Troy and Charlotte’s journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about trying, failing, learning, and trying again. It’s about two people who refuse to let their struggles define them, even when those struggles threaten to pull them apart.
Alexandra Shaw delivers a romance that is heartfelt, emotionally intelligent, and deeply respectful of mental health. The Rookie isn’t just a love story — it’s a healing story. And it absolutely earns every one of these five stars.
The Rookie is one of those rare romances that doesn’t just entertain — it understands. Alexandra Shaw writes with a tenderness and emotional clarity that makes this story feel lived-in, raw, and deeply human.
At its core, this book is about growth through struggle. It’s about choosing someone not because they’re perfect, but because you see their whole self — the bright parts, the bruised parts, and the parts still learning how to breathe. Charlotte’s severe anxiety and mild depression aren’t treated as quirks or plot devices; they’re portrayed with honesty and compassion. And Troy? He loves her with those imperfections, not in spite of them.
Their relationship isn’t flawless, and Shaw never pretends it is. When Troy is violated by a stranger who breaks into his hotel room and steals from him, the emotional fallout is real and painful. Instead of comforting him, Charlie spirals inward, overwhelmed by her own fears, and asks for a break. It’s messy, human, and heartbreaking — and it forces Troy to consider his own mental health for once, not just everyone else’s.
That’s what makes this book so powerful. Shaw shows that love isn’t about sacrificing yourself until there’s nothing left. It’s about boundaries, therapy, forgiveness, and choosing to move forward together. The way she normalizes therapy — not as a last resort, but as an act of strength — is genuinely refreshing.
Troy and Charlotte’s journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about trying, failing, learning, and trying again. It’s about two people who refuse to let their struggles define them, even when those struggles threaten to pull them apart.
Alexandra Shaw delivers a romance that is heartfelt, emotionally intelligent, and deeply respectful of mental health. The Rookie isn’t just a love story — it’s a healing story. And it absolutely earns every one of these five stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Rookie concludes the 3 book series of The Ironbacks.
Book 1 The Coach is Travis and Ella with the twins, Charlie and Zoey, and several of Travis’ players from the Ironbacks professional NFL team. Falling in love is unexpected but the attraction is instant and the hurdles are fast, funny and ever present.
Book 2 The Quarterback is Gary and a now grown up Zoey. Unrequited love is unveiled and passion ignites between the ballerina and the overprotective quarterback. Hilarity issues as this couple finds their footing and their future together while trying to deal with body image and health concerns. Gary will do everything to protect the women he loves.
Lastly, the finally…The Rookie, Troy a wide receiver, and Charlotte, a college student, who meet in LA just after Troy is drafted. They fall hard and fast while hiding parts of themselves from the other so not to break their bubble. However insecurity, anxiety, depression and a lack of communication skills work against this couple. As the Alexandra Shaw states, “the idea of loving someone isn’t about perfection - it’s about showing up when the walls go up, when the past gets loud, when trust gets terrifying.”
Putting in the work is hard for all 3 couples and The Rookie concludes this series with different perspectives from parties experiencing the same situation in relation to their own circumstance, answers to questions long forgotten in The Coach are provided as Travis, Charlotte and Zoey move forward in their lives. Can you forget your past? Can you stuff it so far down that you will never think of it or better yet have to deal with it?
Our past is part of who we were, who we are now and how we present ourselves to the outside world . Shaw reminds each reader the key role mental health plays in our lives as well as the lives of those around us. Help is always out there: a friend, a relative, a physician, a therapist or a psychiatrist. Sometimes it’s as simple as just having some listen to you and sit with you. Other times, professional help is the only solution.
This book, this series is sweet and hard and unapologetic and perfect. These couples and this series will live rent free forever in my head and in my heart.
Book 1 The Coach is Travis and Ella with the twins, Charlie and Zoey, and several of Travis’ players from the Ironbacks professional NFL team. Falling in love is unexpected but the attraction is instant and the hurdles are fast, funny and ever present.
Book 2 The Quarterback is Gary and a now grown up Zoey. Unrequited love is unveiled and passion ignites between the ballerina and the overprotective quarterback. Hilarity issues as this couple finds their footing and their future together while trying to deal with body image and health concerns. Gary will do everything to protect the women he loves.
Lastly, the finally…The Rookie, Troy a wide receiver, and Charlotte, a college student, who meet in LA just after Troy is drafted. They fall hard and fast while hiding parts of themselves from the other so not to break their bubble. However insecurity, anxiety, depression and a lack of communication skills work against this couple. As the Alexandra Shaw states, “the idea of loving someone isn’t about perfection - it’s about showing up when the walls go up, when the past gets loud, when trust gets terrifying.”
Putting in the work is hard for all 3 couples and The Rookie concludes this series with different perspectives from parties experiencing the same situation in relation to their own circumstance, answers to questions long forgotten in The Coach are provided as Travis, Charlotte and Zoey move forward in their lives. Can you forget your past? Can you stuff it so far down that you will never think of it or better yet have to deal with it?
Our past is part of who we were, who we are now and how we present ourselves to the outside world . Shaw reminds each reader the key role mental health plays in our lives as well as the lives of those around us. Help is always out there: a friend, a relative, a physician, a therapist or a psychiatrist. Sometimes it’s as simple as just having some listen to you and sit with you. Other times, professional help is the only solution.
This book, this series is sweet and hard and unapologetic and perfect. These couples and this series will live rent free forever in my head and in my heart.
February 20, 2026
The Rookie: The Seattle Ironbacks Football Sports Romance by Alexandra Shaw is an emotional, character-driven sports romance that goes far beyond football. It follows Troy, a devoted athlete, and Charlotte, a woman struggling with anxiety, trust issues, and painful family history, as they navigate love, trauma, and the courage it takes to heal together. As the final installment in the Seattle Ironbacks series, it brings both closure and heart.
This story absolutely wrecked me in the best way. The mental health representation felt honest and compassionate—Charlotte’s anxiety and depression are treated with respect, not as plot devices, and Troy’s patience and unconditional love make him an unforgettable hero. Their relationship is messy, real, and deeply human, especially when they’re forced to confront boundaries, therapy, and personal accountability. I also loved how the book shows that love isn’t about perfection—it’s about choosing each other again and again.
The writing is tender, emotionally intelligent, and immersive, with just enough angst to bring the tears (have tissues ready). Fans of the series will appreciate the full-circle ending, but the romance itself is powerful enough to stand on its own.
Overall: heartfelt, healing, and beautifully written—an unforgettable finale and a well-earned five stars.
This story absolutely wrecked me in the best way. The mental health representation felt honest and compassionate—Charlotte’s anxiety and depression are treated with respect, not as plot devices, and Troy’s patience and unconditional love make him an unforgettable hero. Their relationship is messy, real, and deeply human, especially when they’re forced to confront boundaries, therapy, and personal accountability. I also loved how the book shows that love isn’t about perfection—it’s about choosing each other again and again.
The writing is tender, emotionally intelligent, and immersive, with just enough angst to bring the tears (have tissues ready). Fans of the series will appreciate the full-circle ending, but the romance itself is powerful enough to stand on its own.
Overall: heartfelt, healing, and beautifully written—an unforgettable finale and a well-earned five stars.
March 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)
The Rookie by Alexandra Shaw
At this point, I don’t even question it anymore — if Alexandra Shaw writes it, I’m reading it. And somehow, every single time, she still manages to exceed my expectations.
The Rookie completely wrecked me in the best way.
This wasn’t just a football romance. It was about choosing someone. Staying. Showing up when things get messy and hard and uncomfortable. And Troy? He SHOWS UP.
I loved that he isn’t just the cocky athlete trope. He’s steady. He’s intentional. He sees Charlotte’s fear, her trauma, her instinct to run before she can be left — and instead of being intimidated, he plants his feet. There’s something so powerful about a hero who doesn’t need to dominate the room but quietly decides, I’m not going anywhere.
Charlotte’s emotional arc felt so real. The anxiety. The waiting for the other shoe to drop. The way past hurt shapes present fear. You can feel how badly she wants to trust him but doesn’t know how to let herself believe in something permanent. That internal battle hit hard.
And the chemistry? Off the charts.
The emotional intimacy? Even stronger.
I genuinely could not put this book down. Every chapter made me feel more invested — not just in the romance, but in the healing. In the growth. In the idea that love can be consistent and safe.
Alexandra Shaw has this way of writing relationships that feel earned. Nothing feels rushed or surface-level. You believe in them. You root for them. You feel the weight of what they’re risking.
If you love:
• Sports romance with depth
• Emotionally steady, protective heroes
• Heroines learning to trust again
• High emotion + high chemistry
• The “I’m not leaving” kind of love
This is it.
Another absolute win. Five stars, zero hesitation. I already know this will be one I think about long after finishing. Alexandra Shaw truly does not miss.
The Rookie by Alexandra Shaw
At this point, I don’t even question it anymore — if Alexandra Shaw writes it, I’m reading it. And somehow, every single time, she still manages to exceed my expectations.
The Rookie completely wrecked me in the best way.
This wasn’t just a football romance. It was about choosing someone. Staying. Showing up when things get messy and hard and uncomfortable. And Troy? He SHOWS UP.
I loved that he isn’t just the cocky athlete trope. He’s steady. He’s intentional. He sees Charlotte’s fear, her trauma, her instinct to run before she can be left — and instead of being intimidated, he plants his feet. There’s something so powerful about a hero who doesn’t need to dominate the room but quietly decides, I’m not going anywhere.
Charlotte’s emotional arc felt so real. The anxiety. The waiting for the other shoe to drop. The way past hurt shapes present fear. You can feel how badly she wants to trust him but doesn’t know how to let herself believe in something permanent. That internal battle hit hard.
And the chemistry? Off the charts.
The emotional intimacy? Even stronger.
I genuinely could not put this book down. Every chapter made me feel more invested — not just in the romance, but in the healing. In the growth. In the idea that love can be consistent and safe.
Alexandra Shaw has this way of writing relationships that feel earned. Nothing feels rushed or surface-level. You believe in them. You root for them. You feel the weight of what they’re risking.
If you love:
• Sports romance with depth
• Emotionally steady, protective heroes
• Heroines learning to trust again
• High emotion + high chemistry
• The “I’m not leaving” kind of love
This is it.
Another absolute win. Five stars, zero hesitation. I already know this will be one I think about long after finishing. Alexandra Shaw truly does not miss.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I hardly know where to begin. I've absolutely loved reading The Seattle Ironbacks series by Alexandra Shaw. With each new installment, the books only get better, always leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next release. Shaw has a way of making you completely invested in her characters, rooting wholeheartedly for their happiness and growth.
The Rookie was especially highly anticipated. We were first introduced to Travis in The Coach, and after reading both of his daughters stories in The Quarterback and The Rookie, it felt incredibly special to see everything come full circle. There’s something so satisfying about watching these connections unfold across the series.
This was an easy five star read for me. While it was bittersweet knowing the series was coming to an end, the story wrapped everything up beautifully. It delivered all the emotions there were tears, there was laughter, and there were so many heartfelt moments in between. Alexandra Shaw truly tied the series together in a way that felt meaningful and complete. I can’t wait for everyone to experience this incredible series and watch it truly shine on release day!
The Rookie was especially highly anticipated. We were first introduced to Travis in The Coach, and after reading both of his daughters stories in The Quarterback and The Rookie, it felt incredibly special to see everything come full circle. There’s something so satisfying about watching these connections unfold across the series.
This was an easy five star read for me. While it was bittersweet knowing the series was coming to an end, the story wrapped everything up beautifully. It delivered all the emotions there were tears, there was laughter, and there were so many heartfelt moments in between. Alexandra Shaw truly tied the series together in a way that felt meaningful and complete. I can’t wait for everyone to experience this incredible series and watch it truly shine on release day!
Review of advance copy
Thanks to BookSirens for this ARC, my opinions are always my own. The Rookie is book 3 in the Seattle Ironbacks series, a sports/ football, coaches daughter trope. Though it’s the first in the series I’ve read, I didn’t feel one bit lost. We also meet the two couples, and some fun secondary characters from the first two books who bring a lot to the story, leaving me tempted to go back and catch up. There were some really deep and sensitive topics our MC’s go through. Depression, anxiety and abandonment from a parent. Most likely an unpopular opinion but, the many and multiple pages of sex scenes took away from the seriousness we are grappling with. I lost count after 2 scenes, it’s usually my limit anyways before it all gets redundant. Contributing to the unnecessary 500+ page count ( still saying it until I’m blue in the face) it distracts and loses a star. Another thing I’d have like to have read was a bit more foundation for his “man-whore” reputation. Was more of a told than shown situation. Another contributor to page count. Overall the bones of story was good and entertaining, just needed to be tightened up a bit.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If I cld give a book a million stars it wld be this one! It’s a spicy love story that will leave you swooning and teary eyed!
A beautifully emotional ending to the series! This book gives you everything you want and then some. If you had questions from reading The Coach and The Quarterback, you get your answers in this book!
In true Alexandra Shaw fashion is mixes messy and real with humor and spice that leave you with characters you will keep in your heart for life.
In this final book of the series we get Charlie and Troy’s epic love story with grit and how they work through their traumas and emotions! It’s a beautiful story that isn’t always easy, but if you truly love someone, nothing will stop you from being with them and loving them with everything your heart will allow!
So, grab the tissues, a snack and buckle down for The Rookie! I absolutely love this book and it’s honestly my favorite one of this series.
A beautifully emotional ending to the series! This book gives you everything you want and then some. If you had questions from reading The Coach and The Quarterback, you get your answers in this book!
In true Alexandra Shaw fashion is mixes messy and real with humor and spice that leave you with characters you will keep in your heart for life.
In this final book of the series we get Charlie and Troy’s epic love story with grit and how they work through their traumas and emotions! It’s a beautiful story that isn’t always easy, but if you truly love someone, nothing will stop you from being with them and loving them with everything your heart will allow!
So, grab the tissues, a snack and buckle down for The Rookie! I absolutely love this book and it’s honestly my favorite one of this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a 4.5 stars. Alexandra Shaw never disappoints. Her writing is amazing and she keeps her audience engaged.
This is book three in the Ironback series. I love when a series keeps all the characters and continues to build on the new stories. This story is about Troy, the new rookie on
the team and one of the coach’s twin daughters, Charlotte.
Troy and Charlotte met one night in a club, right after he was drafted into the NFL. After hitting it off and not revealing last names, they start seeing each other. But as soon as it started, it ends on an assumption and heartbreaks ensues. Time passes and their lives go on, but the yearning and love never die.
This story will take you on that journey with these characters, their families and teammates. It will show you a lot of love, support and real life issues. It will lead you down some mental illness issues, some drama and will reveal some secrets of the past.
I highly recommend this series.
This is book three in the Ironback series. I love when a series keeps all the characters and continues to build on the new stories. This story is about Troy, the new rookie on
the team and one of the coach’s twin daughters, Charlotte.
Troy and Charlotte met one night in a club, right after he was drafted into the NFL. After hitting it off and not revealing last names, they start seeing each other. But as soon as it started, it ends on an assumption and heartbreaks ensues. Time passes and their lives go on, but the yearning and love never die.
This story will take you on that journey with these characters, their families and teammates. It will show you a lot of love, support and real life issues. It will lead you down some mental illness issues, some drama and will reveal some secrets of the past.
I highly recommend this series.
February 23, 2026
This book surprised me in a good way. At first it felt like a typical sports romance setup, college football, ambition, attraction; but it quickly grew into something more emotional. The characters feel very human, especially the male lead, whose mix of confidence, vulnerability, and family loyalty adds depth beyond the usual “athlete hero” trope. You can feel the author’s focus on mental health and personal growth woven naturally into the story, which gives it heart.
What I enjoyed most was the chemistry and pacing. The relationship development feels engaging without dragging, and there’s a strong emotional undercurrent that keeps you invested. Some moments are intense and messy (in a realistic way), but that actually makes the story more believable. If you like sports romance with emotional weight, character-driven drama, and a bit of spice, this is definitely worth picking up.
At last, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What I enjoyed most was the chemistry and pacing. The relationship development feels engaging without dragging, and there’s a strong emotional undercurrent that keeps you invested. Some moments are intense and messy (in a realistic way), but that actually makes the story more believable. If you like sports romance with emotional weight, character-driven drama, and a bit of spice, this is definitely worth picking up.
At last, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 27, 2026
Nothing is Permanent
The Rookie
By Alexandra Shaw
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Nothing is permanent
This may be my favorite out of all 3 books. I highly recommend reading them in order, start with the Coach then the Quarterback then the Rookie.
A happenstance meeting in LA at a club turns into a real connection before Troy and Charlotte know who each other are. Oh he falls first and hard. She’s scared and running.
A misunderstanding ruins everything….. or does it?
I love Ella so much!! She is a light in this entire series and I just love her. The banter in this book made me giggle, the trauma made me cry and pick myself back up. I can relate to a few things with Charlotte and was rooting for them the whole story. Alexandra Shaw knows how to write these characters to perfection. I’m kind of hoping for another in this series. These were my favorites of 2026 so far. MUST READS for sure. Thank you for writing these and giving us hope.
The Rookie
By Alexandra Shaw
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Nothing is permanent
This may be my favorite out of all 3 books. I highly recommend reading them in order, start with the Coach then the Quarterback then the Rookie.
A happenstance meeting in LA at a club turns into a real connection before Troy and Charlotte know who each other are. Oh he falls first and hard. She’s scared and running.
A misunderstanding ruins everything….. or does it?
I love Ella so much!! She is a light in this entire series and I just love her. The banter in this book made me giggle, the trauma made me cry and pick myself back up. I can relate to a few things with Charlotte and was rooting for them the whole story. Alexandra Shaw knows how to write these characters to perfection. I’m kind of hoping for another in this series. These were my favorites of 2026 so far. MUST READS for sure. Thank you for writing these and giving us hope.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive The Rookie as an ARC!
The Rookie is the third book in the Seattle Ironbacks series. While it could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading The Coach and The Quarterback first. You will understand the characters so much more! I absolutely love these characters and their real life, relatable struggles with trust,love and believing in yourself! There are some amazing women in these stories and some fabulous men who are dedicated and obsessed with their women! There is SPICE and HEA’s in every book.
I have read several of Alexandra Shaw’s books and she does an amazing job of bringing these characters to life and making you feel like you are living in their world! There are moments that will make you laugh, cry and kick your feet while giggling!! I will always recommend her books!
The Rookie is the third book in the Seattle Ironbacks series. While it could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading The Coach and The Quarterback first. You will understand the characters so much more! I absolutely love these characters and their real life, relatable struggles with trust,love and believing in yourself! There are some amazing women in these stories and some fabulous men who are dedicated and obsessed with their women! There is SPICE and HEA’s in every book.
I have read several of Alexandra Shaw’s books and she does an amazing job of bringing these characters to life and making you feel like you are living in their world! There are moments that will make you laugh, cry and kick your feet while giggling!! I will always recommend her books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2026
ARC Review
🏈The Rookie🏈
The Seattle Ironbacks Series ~ Book 3
Author: Alexandra Shaw
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
This is definitely a series that you will always be excited and hoping for the next book! Never wanting the series to end because every book is just that good! I love Alexandras writing she 100% will be one of my forever Authors. One that I will NEED to read every book she writes. ✨️Adds every Alexandra Shaw book to my never ending TBR ✨️ 🤣
Alexandra was extremely thoughtful when writing about the mental health struggles that are reality to a lot of us. I connected with this book in so many was it even made me reflect on myself.
The love story between Troy and Charlotte was a roller coaster of emotion but with as much dedication they both put into it made it all worth it in the end! I absolutely loved it and highly recommend! Starting with The Coach of course!
🏈The Rookie🏈
The Seattle Ironbacks Series ~ Book 3
Author: Alexandra Shaw
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
This is definitely a series that you will always be excited and hoping for the next book! Never wanting the series to end because every book is just that good! I love Alexandras writing she 100% will be one of my forever Authors. One that I will NEED to read every book she writes. ✨️Adds every Alexandra Shaw book to my never ending TBR ✨️ 🤣
Alexandra was extremely thoughtful when writing about the mental health struggles that are reality to a lot of us. I connected with this book in so many was it even made me reflect on myself.
The love story between Troy and Charlotte was a roller coaster of emotion but with as much dedication they both put into it made it all worth it in the end! I absolutely loved it and highly recommend! Starting with The Coach of course!
February 12, 2026
This book was hit and miss for me. I really enjoyed the first act. We meet Troy and get to know him before we get Charlie and Troy’s adorable start to their romance. And I was really happy with the last act, which has a very satisfying conclusion not just to this book but the trilogy. I had some issues, however, with the middle portion of the book - mostly because of the miscommunication. It is resolved and the reasoning makes absolute sense. This is not a case of miscommunication as a lazy plot device. It has to do with the mental health struggles of Charlotte. There is a lot of mental health rep in this series dealing with eating disorders, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Thank you to author Alexandra Shaw for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thank you to author Alexandra Shaw for the opportunity to read and review this book.
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