4 stars
This is a forbidden, client-agent, little-sister's-best-friend romance plus more. It also has a darker edge to the story due to her painful past and is a story or empowerment.

But it begins as more of a feisty, flirty rom com with a grumpy, stressed out agent, Max. His outgoing and impulsive sister, Willow, and her angry, best friend Parker are invading his home. Parker is a soccer player who has had a bad year and needs an agent to try to repair her reputation and score her a pro contract. And his sister is doing an internship with him to try to convince him to let her work for him as a sports agent.

There is antagonistic banter edged in flirting, an unexpected and forbidden attraction, and several reasons not to act on it. And no matter how they feel, a relationship would not be professional.

He is all about control. She is chaos. But together they are fire. Matt has a big heart and good sense of humor under that overwhelmed and gruff exterior. Parker has a fragile core, but puts on a strong front. She is trying to deal with her issues as best she can, but her past still affects her and it is hard to outrun. But Matt pushes her to be the best and eventually breaks down her walls and learns more about her issues.

What happens when following one dream could prevent her from realizing another?

Despite the somewhat heavier topics underlying this story, it was also funny, sweet, and sexy. It was not as angsty and the first book. There was some bigger drama towards the end and I thought it might have been a bit much, but it did not bother me too much. But the topic is current and and relevant.

This can be read as a total stand alone, but it does bring back Slade, Mackenzie, and Jagger from Risky Play as supporting characters. They along with Willow they are quite a wild and outspoken group. They add the comic relief and sometimes the drama, making Matt want to pull his hair out. But at the core of it are friendships and new relationships building that have enriched all of their lives despite the challenges. And it also has good messages of empowerment and the importance of good female role models.

Aww my heart! This was such a sad yet beautiful story! Parker was such a strong, brave and amazing woman and it broke my heart to learn about her past. It’s tragic yet it’s a reality in our world that plays out over and over again. Matt was a sweet, sensitive, kind and just an all around great guy. His protectiveness over Parker and her trauma was heartwarming. Seeing the two of them bicker and banter back an forth while trying to hide their feelings was hilarious. They are a beautiful fun couple! I loved seeing their journey. I also loved willow’s sassy and bold attitude and how much grief she gives Matt! Lol Her and Jagger had me laughing out loud! This was an awesome book and I hope we get more for the

This book was the most perfect for today’s society. It was strength, bravery, love, fight, blood, sweat, and tears. I cannot say enough good things about this book. Van Dyken made something refreshing and I definitely recommend this book to everyone who enjoys sport romances, tough chicks, and the ability to rise through pain. This is a testament to empowering women. One of the best books I read in 2019.

OMG!!! This book in a word is... amazing!!!!

You will meet the characters in this story and feel as if they are your life long friends. And just as you fall deeply in love with them, the story behind one of our leading ladies starts to come out and the next thing you know, it’s midnight and you’ve finished every single word of the book!

I loved it!!! 💖

Gah. Perfection. (Clapping hands and bouncing in my seat)
I absolutely binge read this in 1 day.
Matt and Parker were perfect for each other.
My heart broke for Parker and the things she went through.
Matt was the perfect partner for her.
Ugh! I loved Willow!!!
And I got way too excited about that Police Chief!!!
Ok, I’m going and buying a whistle now.
Another amazing read by RVD.

Another amazing book by Rachel VanDyken! She is such a great writer. The characters are strong. The book is well written. . I give this book 4.5 stars and a strong recommendation.

This was an unputdownable story that had my emotions all over the place. There was so much witty banter that made me laugh out loud and I just loved the way the characters were.
There was so much about Matt and Parkers story to love.
Parker was an incredible young woman, strong when it came to soccer but when it came to other things, she struggled and my heart was angry, I just wanted to give her a big hug and tell her it will all be ok. Matt, when he saw her struggle was a very welcome support for Parker and I really liked how he helped her. However he had to resist temptation or can he?? I also loved Slade and Jagger and their friendship with Matt! But also the protective side of Matt! That was rather hot!! Hehe!
There was definitely some difficult parts but the author has written this book with so much heart, she should be incredibly proud.
This book is so heartfelt, so touching with some humor and sizzling tension that made it absolutely amazing. A definite must read, add it to your TBR list. Kickin' It - Kicked It! Nailed It!!

Matt doesn't know what to do with himself when Parker storms into his life with his sister. Matt is attracted to Parker but tries to ignore it. The banter that these two have is good but there is a secret that Parker is holding on too which is making here lash out. She is a wonderful soccer player trying to find a team to play for. Once her secret is out to Matt, he does everything in his power to get her to tell her story. I really like this story and the fact that you get a side story with Willow and Jagger as well.

We met Matt in Risky Play, the high-strung sports agent. I enjoyed his character in that book and was really looking forward to his story and I wasn't disappointed. I loved his character even more in his own story!

Matt's sister, Willow, comes to stay with him as she wants to be a sports agent, too. Along with her comes her best friend, Parker. Parker is a soccer superstar who has been known as the player who punched her coach. With the help from Matt as her new agent, she gets a tryout with the Seattle team. The chemistry with Matt and Parker is apparent from the beginning as he agrees to train her for her upcoming tryout.

The banter in this story is on point--if it's between Matt and Parker, Matt and Jagger or Slade or Matt and Willow. It was a fun read, but had a serious undertone as we learn why Parker punched her coach.

Thank you to NetGalley and Skyscape Romance for a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is the second book in the series but can be read as a complete standalone. This is a sports romance and it has its light-hearted moments, but just be warned it does deal with some touchy subjects. Rachel does this in a very respectful way and she just pulls your heart into the story and what Parker had to deal with in her past. It was just amazing how Rachel addressed the subject. This book is not all tears and sorrow. Don't worry! It was such a great book I just couldn't put it down. It was the perfect slow burn trying to resist the slightly forbidden romance. I loved how sassy Parker was and it was funny to see Matt trying restrain himself and be proper. The secondary characters were great. I loved Willow and Jagger were frickin hilarious!

And as a side note for any of Rachel's fans. You will find some Easter eggs relating to her other series that will make you squeal! Be prepared, do not throw your book or kindle in excitement!

Rachel is one of my top favorite authors. I can never put her books down and "Kickin It" never disappointed. Matt and Parker are now one of my top couples!! Parker is strong and extremely athletic. Parker needs this opportunity to start a new chapter in her life away from her old team but especially her old coach. Her best friend Willow, Matt's sister, gives her the opportunity to become Matt's roommate and help her achieve her dreams. Now Matt is a very strong opinionated alpha male and hot!! Matt's a sports agent and former player. Willow asks for his help and Parker almost begs for it. Matt coaches her and learns who she is through out the story. The supporting characters help and is always nice to see Slade, Mackenzie, and Jagger come back from the first book. The story is sweet, very hilarious, and tender moments. The banter between the characters and the bromances bring the story to life. Parker and Matt together are explosive and the chemistry between the two!!! Matt lifts up and encourages Parker and getting her past her issues and making her the strong woman she is. Rachel brings everything to the table and you will not be disappointed. I can not wait for any book she writes and ready to one-click her next book. Definitely one to read!

Such a great strong and inspiring book. Love how love can make heal us and make us stronger when with the right person. Loved Matt and Parker as well as the whole gang. Hope to read more about this bunch.

You don't need to have read Risky Play before picking up Kickin' It, but why would you want to miss any of the action?

We met our leading man Matt in the first book, and I was very eager to get his story. And I have not been disappointed.

I love the snark and banter between Matt and Parker from their very first meeting. You can't help but laugh out loud at some of their conversations.

There are also some darker, more emotional elements to this story that will have your heart hurting - but with a good partner, these things can be overcome.

Matt's sister Willow absolutely stole the show at times, and I am jealous of Parker, because I want her to be my friend!

It was wonderful to see more of Slade and Mack from the first book, Jagger just had me in fits of laughter at times, and I need more of all of their lives.

Wonderful story that I didn't want to put down at all, I can't wait to see what Ms Van Dyken brings us next.

As always, Rachel Van Dyken does romantic comedy so dang well!! Really sweet, lots of heart, and all the feels! This book is no exception. I loved Matt in the previous book and I’m so glad he got his own story! Well done RVD!!

Kickin' it was such a beautiful sport romance. So very Rachel van Dyken. Her stories are easy to read and her wicked mastermind and writing worth every spent cent. 

I love sports romance. It's always fun to read about athletes, especially soccer player.  And let me tell you the Red Card series are unique. It show us that age difference between two people who fall in love doesn't matter. If it feels right, one should just go for it bc nothing is granted. 

Parker is one very talented soccer player who has to leave her dream after punching the coach on national television. She's got anxiety issues which should be dealt with but she needs to start trust someone first. She feels the pull toward her agent and newly stated coach. 

Matt Kingston takes her under his wings but the attraction he feels toward her is insanely strong and although to hook up seems to be the wrong thing they cannot help themselves. 

When finally some teams are interested in her skills, the past she though she left behind strikes right into her present. 

I loved every single word of this amazing book.

I don't know what it is about RVD's Duets - but the couples in the second book always appeal to me the most. And Matt and Parker - OH MY WORD... How I loved them so much.

Rachel has a way of writing strong women who can show their vulnerable sides in a way that makes them real. The chemistry between Matt and Parker is through the roof for the moment these two meet and as always the secondary characters in the book lend a bucket full of comedy to keep you turning page after page. The only thing wrong with this book, was that I wanted more.

Once again RVD has taken us on a fun ride with characters we would love to claim as our BFF's or Boyfriends. Go read Kickin' It. It's AMAZING.
2 likes

Whenever I finish a book by Rachel van Dyken, I'm convinced that one is my new favourite by her. Needlessly to say all of her books are practically flawless, which also makes it hard to choose a favourite. Luckily, I don't have to. I can just be happy about another masterpiece written by her. So much love for that woman!

As mentioned in my Risky Play review, as a German girl I'm a big fan of soccer. Yay for including that sport in the Red Card series. Women and soccer on the other hand... I know we're living in the 21st century, it shouldn't even be discussed, but watching women's soccer... It's not for me. And that means a lot coming from a woman myself. Anyway... I think it's still important to send a message out there - you can do any sport you want, girl or boy, and that's why I still rooted for Parker, the main character.

She's such a strong character, her story being so special. I'm glad Rachel decided to pick up this important topic, what Parker had to go through. Things like this have to be addressed. Unfortunately, lots of things still aren't addressed in today's sports society. Hopefully one day. It needs one person to speak up, to make people think, speakup as well and start a discussion, getting closure, too. This book is also about gaining confidence. And what's super important, I think, is that this confidence comes from deep inside of Parker and not because of anybody else. She doesn't depend on anyone. Sure, there's support, but that's different.

Yes, Kickin' It - which can be read as a standalone - is very serious at times. But those who enjoy Rachel's books because of her humor don't have to fear of missing out. The balance between serious and funny and also romantic is just right. Having read as many Rachel van Dyken books as I have, you will find (many) similarities to other books created by her. It seems there's always a grandmother involved, no matter what. And though I would probably critize this, I come to think of it as Rachel's thing now. Just certain involved details seen as a trademark - typically van Dyken. And those details contribute making me feel like coming home while reading her stories. There's that special vibe to it.

And that special romance, too. Favourite couple by the author? I could never decide either. Although Parker and Matt's chemistry will probably take up a big spot in my heart. The two of them felt right, starting at the very beginning. And Matt might also be one of my favourite male characters. He's so tough, but so very charming and that support... I melted away.

Not sure if Rachel had this in mind while writing, but girls can learn so much from this story (as mentioned above) - also that you should never settle for someone who doesn't support you, someone who easily lets you down without looking back. Parker knew she was worth so much more (though her past had her insecure) and that message should be sent out to every single woman out there!

There's so much strength floating in Kickin' It, so much greatness, so many funny moments, just the expected flirty scenes in Rachel van Dyken style, the friendship goals scenes and everything fans by the author love.

Oh man, the BANTER in this near-flawless romance kept the pages turning. My main problem with this book is that I couldn’t put it down, and I was literally late for work because I was trying to sneak in just a few more pages before I left for the day. Rachel Van Dyken has always excelled at infusing humor and great dialogue into stories with complicated relationships, and Kickin’ It is no exception. The story follows Parker, a young soccer player with hopes of going pro. She’s an amazing player, but she developed something of a reputation after she punched her former coach. Parker meets Matt, a former soccer player turned agent through her friend, and he agrees to take her on as a client. What starts out as a rocky relationship when Matt believes Parker to be too immature to handle the spotlight turns into scorching chemistry and the promise of more.

I loved how Rachel Van Dyken handled the sensitive topics in this book with care (yes, this book will probably trigger some people, and it’s not all sunshine and roses). She infused banter and playfulness with some heavy topics. But Matt is the perfect book boyfriend, showing exactly what a relationship SHOULD be, which juxtaposes well with another relationship in this book that is a shining example of what SHOULDN’T be. I absolutely LOVED both Matt and Parker, and it’s their connection that makes this book what it is. There was only one scene towards the end of the book that felt a little over the top, but it wrapped up the story nicely. Other than that, it’s a truly engrossing read that feels like more than the everyday romance novel. Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I’ve been a fan of Rachel Van Dyken for a while now, and this book was the perfect mix of humor, fun, steam and angst without being too heavy.

The couple, Matt and Parker gave me all kinds of aweseome feelings. As Parker’s agent/coach, Matt was all kinds of yummy. His concern towards Parker, her future and mental health was adorable and just wonderful for such a savvy and by the book business man. He really fell head over heels for her and their interactions and banter were right up my alley. With one word – they clicked.

Parker was such a strong woman, especially after what she went through. Her struggles felt genuine, and made me root for her even stronger. I adored how much she pushed Matt’s buttons. The way those two harmonized was the sweetest thing, and they always seemed to be on the same wavelength.

And OMG her best friend Willow, who also was Matt’s ‘baby’ sister, actually stole the show at times. She was the BOMB!! That girl deserves her own book. Best supporting character, best kind of friend, hilarious younger sister and pain in the butt, tenacious agent in the making, and an absolutely crazy girlfriend – I could go on…. LOVED HER!!!

My thoughts:

Like I said, this story was all kinds of sweet, funny, with some tender moments. It also covered a trendy topic that has been in the news for the last couple years – really enjoyed that correlation.

The conclusion at the end felt a bit farfetched. But that’s probably just me.

But I must admit that it took me two sittings to finish this book, over multiple weeks. I put it down to read a couple new releases and ARC’s and never felt the urge to pick it back up again, until today. That underscores a little bit my overall feelings toward this book. Even though it was sweet and entertaining, I wasn’t falling heads over heels for it. But all in all, it was a solid and well written, sports romance.

If I thought I loved book 1.... stand by for book 2 , Matt and Parker is where it’s at.it’s the perfect blend of a serious topic and humor! Rachel is one of them authors that makes you fall in love with all of her characters!

Kickin’ It is a must read! Add it to your wish list now !