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!

Kickin it

A non spoiler review......

Matt and Parker were soooo perfect for each other. I loved there banter and playfulness. He was her strength and she was his laughter. Their journey was a hard one but a beautiful one with lots of ups and downs. and then the humor was tossed in always at the right time, the perfect moments.

The writing as usual from this author was fantastic. She always balances out the serious with the light hearted. She adds topics that for some can be hard to read but always manages to make it easier.
Her characters are always relatable. In this book her characters will make you laugh. Slade and Jagger along with Willow had me cracking up. All the interactions for the most part with them were hilarious and so much fun. I adore these characters and you will too!

I adored this book. I’m hoping Jagger gets his story..

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!

Kickin’ It by Rachel Van Dyken was such a good romantic comedy with a darker twist. I love all of her previous work and this one did not disappoint. I was completely invested in these characters and was rooting for Matt and Parker all the way. I could not put the book down once I started reading. I would definitely recommend this book.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

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.
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Kicking it is second in the series and we have Matt. He’s the agent to some of the best players for the Seattle Sounders soccer team, he’s rich, he’s good at what he does, but something is missing. His sister is coming to live with him and to intern with his company. The problem? He never listens fully when his sister is after something and finds himself not only living with his sister for the summer but her best friend Parker too. What could go wrong?

Parker is a soccer player in search of her new team. She knows she messed up when she punched her coach on tv but she had her reasons. The only person who can help her is Matt. These two will have quite the back and forth while they battle their demons. However once Matt realizes the depth of her demons will he be able to slay them? Good and interesting read, and another good read by Rachel Van Dyken.

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 !

Another fantastic read by Rachel Van Dyken. I absolutely loved the chemistry and banter between Matt and Parker. An enemies to lovers romance with a sensitive subject matter woven in and done well. I was definitely hooked from beginning to end and as usual loved the supporting cast and how they add to the story. I highly recommend this book!

In the second book of the Red Card series, Matt and Parker are front and center for another exciting story about passion, love, and finding yourself. Matt’s sister Willow drops a bomb on him – I’m coming to town and bringing a friend! Unbeknownst to Matt, this “friend” will become the greatest thing to happen to him. I love how Parker’s character brought so much to the table, being that she was part of a controversial action against her, and Matt stood up for her 100%. The reality that Rachel Van Dyken brings to her books is unlike so many other authors, and she weaves a story that is relatable to some, but felt by all. This love story was truly about finding mutual respect for each other and learning to trust again. As always, this story had a great energy to it and I can’t wait for the next in the series!

Successful, high-profile sports agent Matt Kingston thinks he can handle anything. Then soccer player Parker Speedman shows up at his door. She is young and gorgeous, has natural talent, and is looking for a team. She’s also a hothead with a punchy past who floored her last coach on live TV. Despite his misgivings, Matt agrees to be both her agent and her coach. Professional common sense says she’s off-limits. But what can he say about the raw attraction between them?

Parker plays soccer with her heart and soul. But after the events of the last year, she’s shaken. She’s already seen what a powerful man can do to a female athlete’s career. And her beloved dream is in the hands of a sexy, gorgeous man with the uncanny ability to slip past her defenses…and into her heart.

Now Matt and Parker are about to learn that when it comes to love, the only way to win is by breaking every rule they know. And by playing nice. Real nice.

Boy oh boy, Parker and Matt! This book somehow managed to blend humour, a very serious storyline and a bit of suspense all in one! I absolutely could not put it down! The tension and chemistry was off the charts, and Matt, started off questionable but ended up being so sweet and protective and perfect! Loved everything about this book!

I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks NetGalley!

Rachel Van Dyken is SO amazing ya'll. Every single one of her books is pure magic. This one is no different.

Read it. Read them all.

After meeting Matt in the first book, Risky Play, I was excited to pick up Kicking It to see what girl would win the broody manager over. After his sister decided to follow in his footsteps, she brings a surprise of her own, her best friend, a female soccer star with a bad reputation, who was in need of a new manager.

I really enjoyed getting to know both Matt and Parker. Matt was extremely good at his job, and although he was quite abrupt, he knew what he was doing. Parker had demons that she hadn’t quite dealt with, and she was hoping to forget them with her move to a new city and club. But we all know secrets resurface, and Parker needed to confide in someone to help her get through.

Parker and Matt had a love/hate relationship to begin with... they bickered over everything, and they were both easily angered and neither of them would back down. They both developed feelings for one another, but were reluctant to cross any lines. Matt treated Parker with care and helped her to open up which was really sweet.

The Red Card series has become one of my favourite Sports Romance series. The characters felt real, weren’t perfect, but found happiness together. Matt and Parker both made an impact on my soul, and I enjoyed every moment of being in their world, although it was difficult for both of them.