Play It Off (Kings of Campus #2) by Monica Murphy Book Review: A Touchdown of Forbidden Romance and Heart-Pounding Chemistry
- Joao Nsita
- May 11
- 9 min read
Introduction
What happens when the heart wants what it shouldn’t? In Play It Off (Kings of Campus #2), Monica Murphy delivers a sizzling, forbidden romance that tackles the electric tension between a college quarterback and his teammate’s sister. This new adult sports romance, set against the vibrant backdrop of college football, is a rollercoaster of emotions, chemistry, and stakes that will keep you glued to every page. Murphy, a New York Times bestselling author, crafts a story that’s as much about self-discovery as it is about love. If you’re craving a steamy, heartfelt read, this book is your next obsession. Dive into more romance recommendations at That Love Podcast.
Book Summary
Play It Off centers on Sienna Cooper, a college freshman harboring a secret crush on Gavin Maddox, the star quarterback and her brother’s best friend. Their shared history—a single, unforgettable moment—lingers like a forbidden spark, but both have spent two years dodging their chemistry due to loyalty and fear. Now, with mutual friends pulling them into the same orbit, their resolve crumbles. Gavin, in his senior year, is laser-focused on his final football season, but Sienna’s presence threatens to derail his discipline. The novel weaves a tale of forbidden love, personal growth, and the courage to chase what sets your heart ablaze, all wrapped in the high-energy world of college sports. Its unique blend of angst, humor, and spice makes it a standout in the genre.
Author’s Style and Craft
Monica Murphy’s writing is a masterclass in balancing steam with substance. Her prose is accessible yet evocative, painting vivid scenes of college life with a cinematic flair. The dual first-person narrative alternates between Sienna and Gavin, offering intimate glimpses into their vulnerabilities and desires. Murphy’s pacing is deliberate, building tension like a slow-burning fuse that explodes in moments of raw emotion or passion. Dialogue crackles with authenticity, capturing the playful banter and awkward silences of young love. Character development shines, particularly in Gavin’s evolution from a cocky athlete to a man grappling with his heart’s demands. Murphy’s ability to craft relatable, flawed characters elevates Play It Off into a compelling read.
Themes and Deeper Meaning
At its core, Play It Off explores themes of forbidden love, loyalty, and self-discovery. The tension between personal desires and societal expectations—embodied in Sienna and Gavin’s forbidden romance—mirrors universal struggles. Murphy uses the football field as a metaphor for life’s battles, where every play requires strategy, courage, and risk. The novel also delves into gender dynamics, as Sienna navigates her identity in a male-dominated sports world. These themes resonate with broader societal issues, like the pressure to conform versus the freedom to choose one’s path. Murphy’s nuanced portrayal invites readers to reflect on their own choices, making the story both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Strengths
Play It Off excels in its electric chemistry and emotional depth. The push-and-pull between Sienna and Gavin is palpable, with moments like their stolen glances at a team party crackling with tension. Murphy’s knack for crafting secondary characters—such as Sienna’s brother Coop—adds richness, creating a found-family vibe that warms the heart. The sports backdrop is vividly rendered, immersing readers in the adrenaline of game days without overwhelming non-fans. A standout scene, where Gavin confesses, “I want the one I can’t have. The one I shouldn’t touch,” encapsulates the novel’s intoxicating stakes. These strengths make Play It Off a page-turner that lingers long after the final chapter.
Areas for Improvement
While Play It Off is a triumph, it’s not flawless. The pacing occasionally stumbles in the middle, with repetitive internal monologues slowing the momentum. Some readers may find Sienna’s indecision frustrating, as her back-and-forth can feel drawn out. Additionally, the resolution of secondary conflicts, like Sienna’s strained relationship with her brother, feels rushed. These elements might detract for readers seeking tighter plotting or more decisive protagonists. To enhance the narrative, Murphy could streamline introspective passages and deepen secondary arcs. Still, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise captivating read, unlikely to deter fans of slow-burn romance.
Comparative Analysis
Play It Off sits comfortably alongside other new adult sports romances, yet it carves its own niche with its focus on forbidden love. Compared to Elle Kennedy’s The Deal (Amazon Link), it shares a similar college vibe but leans heavier on emotional angst. Unlike Laura Pavlov’s Break the Ice (Amazon Link), which prioritizes humor, Play It Off dives deeper into internal conflict. Murphy’s work challenges genre norms by emphasizing character-driven storytelling over predictable tropes, offering a fresh take on the sports romance formula. Its blend of spice and heart makes it a must-read for genre enthusiasts.
Target Audience
This book is tailor-made for readers aged 18-30 who crave new adult romance with a sports twist. Fans of slow-burn, forbidden love stories—like those by Elle Kennedy or Christina Lauren—will devour Play It Off. Its college setting and relatable characters appeal to young adults navigating their own relationships and identities. The novel’s steamy scenes (rated 2.5/5 for spice) and mild language make it suitable for mature readers but may warrant a content warning for explicit content. Whether you’re a football fan or a hopeless romantic, this book delivers an addictive escape.
Personal Impact
Play It Off hit me like a perfectly thrown spiral—unexpected and exhilarating. Sienna’s struggle to balance desire with duty mirrored my own moments of indecision, making her journey deeply relatable. The novel’s exploration of vulnerability left me reflecting on the risks I’ve taken for love. Murphy’s storytelling stirred a mix of nostalgia and longing, reminding me of college days filled with possibility. I closed the book with a smile, eager to share its magic with others. It’s a story that begs to be experienced, a testament to the power of following your heart.
Conclusion
Play It Off (Kings of Campus #2) is a touchdown of a romance, blending steamy chemistry, heartfelt emotion, and a vibrant college backdrop. Monica Murphy proves why she’s a titan of the genre, delivering a story that’s equal parts swoon-worthy and soul-stirring. Whether you’re drawn to forbidden love or sports drama, this book is a must-read that will leave you cheering for more.
Grab your copy on Amazon and let Sienna and Gavin steal your heart.
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About the Author
Monica Murphy is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over sixty novels, specializing in new adult, young adult, and contemporary romance. Based in central California near Yosemite National Park, she lives with her husband, three children, one dog, and four cats. Known for crafting emotionally charged stories with happy endings, Murphy’s work, including series like One Week Girlfriend and Kings of Campus, has been translated into over ten languages. When not writing, she’s reading or binge-watching her favorite shows. Connect with her at monicamurphyauthor.com, Goodreads, or Amazon.
FAQ Section
What is Play It Off about?It’s a new adult sports romance about Sienna Cooper’s forbidden crush on her brother’s best friend, quarterback Gavin Maddox, set in a vibrant college football world.
Is Play It Off a standalone novel?It’s the second book in the Kings of Campus series but can be read as a standalone, though reading End Game first enhances the experience.
Who is the target audience for this book?Young adults (18-30) who enjoy steamy, slow-burn romances with sports and college settings will love this book.
How spicy is Play It Off?It has a 2.5/5 spice level, with a few explicit scenes suitable for mature readers.
What are the main themes in the book?Forbidden love, loyalty, self-discovery, and navigating societal expectations are central themes.
How does it compare to Monica Murphy’s other works?It shares the emotional depth of One Week Girlfriend but focuses more on sports and forbidden romance tropes.
Are there any content warnings?Expect mild language and steamy scenes, which may not suit readers under 18.
What makes Monica Murphy’s writing unique?Her blend of relatable characters, vivid settings, and emotional stakes creates immersive, heartfelt stories.
Where can I buy Play It Off?It’s available on Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook formats.
Will there be more books in the Kings of Campus series?Yes, Murphy has hinted at future installments featuring secondary characters like Coop.
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