Books, Boots and Bakeries

There’s something about sports romance that keeps me coming back for more—the drive, the passion, and the high stakes both on and off the field. After Sacked introduced me to the genre, I naturally had to continue with Jen Frederick’s Jockblocked, and it did not disappoint. While Sacked had Knox’s unwavering devotion at its core, Jockblocked takes a different approach, giving us a hero with more to prove and a heroine determined to keep her walls up.

In Jockblocked, we follow linebacker Matthew “Matty” Iverson, a star player for Western State’s football team who isn’t used to hearing the word “no.” Enter Lucy Washington, a strong-willed, no-nonsense woman with no interest in dating an athlete. She’s got her own goals, and she’s seen firsthand the kind of distractions sports players can be. But Matty isn’t just another cocky jock—he’s persistent in all the best ways, and watching him work to earn Lucy’s trust (and her heart) makes for an incredibly satisfying read.

What I loved most about Jockblocked is that it subverts expectations. Matty isn’t the over-the-top alpha male who steamrolls his way into Lucy’s life—he’s genuine, sweet, and refreshingly vulnerable. He wants Lucy, but he also respects her boundaries and gives her space to make her own choices. Meanwhile, Lucy’s internal struggle is so well-written; she’s not just a love interest, but a fully developed character dealing with the pressures of school, family expectations, and the fear of losing herself in a relationship.

The tension between Matty and Lucy is fantastic—not just the romantic tension but the emotional stakes that come with it. Lucy’s reluctance isn’t just about resisting Matty; it’s about protecting herself from what she sees as an inevitable heartbreak. Watching Matty prove to her that he’s different and that their relationship is worth the risk makes for a compelling and rewarding journey.

While Jockblocked delivers on the romance, it also dives into the complexities of being a student-athlete, balancing relationships with team dynamics, and the weight of outside expectations. It’s these layers that make Jen Frederick’s sports romances stand out—they’re more than just love stories; they explore the personal growth of both characters in a way that feels real and engaging.

Does Jockblocked hold the same nostalgic charm for me as Sacked? Not quite, but that’s because Sacked was my introduction to the genre and will always have that sentimental edge. That said, Jockblocked is a fantastic follow-up, bringing fresh energy, new challenges, and a romance that’s just as satisfying. If you love sports romance with depth, swoon-worthy moments, and characters who make you root for them, this one is definitely worth picking up.