Books, Boots and Bakeries

Sports romance has a way of delivering intense emotions, high-stakes passion, and characters who challenge each other in all the best ways. After Sacked and Jockblocked, I dove into Downed, the third book in Jen Frederick’s Gridiron series, and it brought something entirely new to the table. With a unique dynamic and a leading couple who couldn’t be more different, this book shakes up the typical sports romance formula in a way that kept me hooked. Also, helloooooo abs.

Downed follows JR “Ace” Anderson, a talented quarterback looking for redemption after being sent packing from his previous school. Despite winning two national championships, his reputation for selfishness and debauchery has followed him to Southern U, where his new teammates greet him with hostility. Determined to prove that he’s more than just his past mistakes, Ace has to fight for a second chance—both on the field and in life. The one person willing to give him that chance is the very person he should avoid—his new coach’s daughter.

Bryant Johnson is the ultimate fixer. Her goal in life is to make others happy, even at her own expense. She’s built a reputation for turning bad boys into perfect boyfriends, and when she meets Ace, she knows he’s her next project. But Ace isn’t interested in being fixed, and he definitely doesn’t want to be anyone’s charity case. The more Bryant tries to get through to him, the more he resists—until the sparks between them become impossible to ignore.

What makes Downed stand out is the way it explores redemption, self-worth, and the reality that people aren’t projects to be fixed. Ace isn’t the stereotypical jock—he’s broken, defensive, and struggling to find his place in a new team that doesn’t want him. Meanwhile, Bryant has to learn that real love isn’t about reforming someone; it’s about accepting them, flaws and all. Their push-and-pull dynamic creates a romance that feels both electric and deeply emotional.

I loved how Downed leaned into the complexities of personal growth. Ace’s arc is particularly strong—he’s not just learning how to be a better quarterback, but also a better teammate and a better man. Meanwhile, Bryant is forced to confront her own motivations and the way she constantly puts others before herself.

The romance itself is swoon-worthy, filled with flirty banter, heartfelt moments, and a slow-burn intensity that makes every page turn worthwhile. And, of course, it delivers on the sports angle—football isn’t just a backdrop here; it’s integral to the story, heightening the stakes for both characters.

More than just another sports romance, Downed is a story of redemption, resilience, and the unexpected ways love can push us to grow. It delivers humor, depth, and a romance that burns slow but strong. If you’re looking for a read that balances emotion and charm with just the right amount of angst, this one is well worth picking up.