cover image Fraternize

Fraternize

Rachel Van Dyken. Skyscape, $9.99 e-book (341p) ISBN 978-1-4778-0920-4

In this amusing contemporary sports series kickoff, a plus-size NFL cheerleader juggles her feelings for two equally attractive players. At 22, Emerson Rodner has finally achieved her goal: making the squad for her favorite team, curves and all. But when she runs into player Miller Quinton, who broke her heart when he abandoned her five years before, the two must find a way to rebuild their once-unbreakable relationship. However, she’s also attracted to his teammate Grant Sanchez, whose direct flirtation and unrelenting charisma catch her off-guard. Van Dyken (Cheater’s Regret) crafts a strong romance in which the natural chemistry among the three protagonists manifests in soul-searching chats, late-night makeout sessions, and illicit fast food runs. While the emotional complications prevalent throughout the story are fairly clichéd—all born of unnecessary misunderstandings, miscommunications, and wild assumptions, plus Emerson’s angsting about her weight and appearance—the actual progress toward a happily-ever-after for two of the three members of this love triangle is delightful. Agent: Erica Spellman Silverman, Trident Media Group. (Sept.)