Review: Play It Off by Monica Murphy
Ah, the sweet thrill of a long-awaited read! When I first stumbled upon the buzz surrounding Play It Off, the second book in Monica Murphy’s Kings of Campus series, I could hardly contain my excitement. Having been a fan of Murphy’s previous works, I knew I was in for a treat. And boy, did this book deliver! With a sparkling rating of 4.6/5✨, this book swept me off my feet, and I’m buzzing to share my thoughts with you.
At its heart, Play It Off explores the intoxicating dynamics of first loves and the complexities that come with them. Sienna, Coop’s little sister, has been nursing a crush on her brother’s best friend, Gavin Maddox, since her freshman year. This ‘what-could-have-been’ left her with an emptiness that made it impossible to measure up other boys against the magnetic pull she felt towards Gavin. Meanwhile, Gavin is wrestling with his own emotions, torn between his burgeoning feelings for Sienna and the looming pressures of his final year on the football field.
The chemistry between Sienna and Gavin is, quite simply, electric. Their secret crush transforms into a deliciously compelling, if a tad forbidden, romance that kept me glued to the pages. The tension between them is palpable, with the push-and-pull effect creating a thrilling rollercoaster of emotion. I found myself equally rooting for their happiness while wishing they could break free from the confines of their circumstances. Gavin’s struggle under the weight of parental expectations and Sienna’s battle with her identity in her brother’s shadow added extra weight to their love story, making it all the more relatable and poignant.
Murphy’s writing style shines brilliantly in this novel. The pacing is impeccable, maintaining a brisk tempo without sacrificing depth in character development. I often found myself laughing, gasping, and aching alongside the characters as their story unfolded. The narrative flows seamlessly, with witty dialogues and engaging inner monologues that had me feeling like an invisible friend, immersed in their world. The way Murphy captures the nuanced feelings of jealousy, desire, and vulnerability is truly commendable.
One of the standout moments for me was when Sienna suddenly confronts the idea of her own worth outside of her brother’s legacy. This moment resonated deeply, serving as a reminder that we often struggle to define ourselves through the expectations placed upon us. Similarly, Gavin’s realization that love and ambition can coexist struck a chord as well—an empowering notion!
This book is brimming with tropes that romance aficionados adore: best friend’s sister, forbidden love, secret hookups, and more. If you enjoy the thrill of a secret romance interspersed with the tension of family loyalties, Play It Off is a must-read.
Overall, I found Play It Off to be a delightful page-turner that many readers will undoubtedly enjoy. Whether you have a penchant for college romances or simply appreciate stories that delve into the complexities of young love, there’s something here for everyone. It left a lasting impression on me—a gentle nudge to chase after my own happiness, no matter the obstacles. So if you haven’t yet picked it up, what are you waiting for? Dive into this world of secret crushes and heartfelt moments; I promise you won’t regret it! 💗📚✨
Discover more about Play It Off (Kings of Campus, #2) on GoodReads >>