REVIEW: Playing the Game by Kristian Parker (Love Goals #2)

- October 17, 2025

PLAYING THE GAME

Love Goals - Book Two

by Kristian Parker

Release Date: October 16, 2025

Review

Jonas moved teams because Brockton FC declared itself queer friendly, only to fall for his closeted captain.

Playing the Game gives an even better look into the Brockton team - it’s a wonderful cast of characters.

Adam is an amazing captain - committed and thoughtful. His competency is an attractive quality. Something Jonas appreciates. They make a really good pair as teammates and as couple.

Their story navigates Jonas’ move to a new team, their secret relationship, some hateful fans, and a big surprise from the past.

I’ll admit, Adam is a bit of a twat when it comes to how he handles some of the relationship - anyone that says ‘trust me’ while subsequently not trusting you makes me a little irate! LOL But he comes around in the end and they make a pretty sweet family when all is said and done.

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Synopsis

After Brockton FC publicly declared itself a safe space for gay players, Swedish midfielder Jonas Haber knew he had to be part of it—even if it meant transferring from their fiercest rivals, Canonbury.

Switching sides is never easy. Jonas is banking on the players and the fans giving him a chance.

Brockton captain Adam Williams is tasked with making sure Jonas and two other new players settle in with no drama. Yet when he meets Jonas, everything changes in the blink of an eye.

Bisexual Adam isn’t out, and after seeing his teammates’ personal lives splashed across the tabloids, he intends on keeping it that way.

Besides, it’s probably all in his head.

But…what if Jonas feels the same?

And what happens when staying professional becomes the hardest game of all?

About Kristian Parker

I have written for as long as I could write. In fact, before, when I would dictate to my auntie. I love to read, and I love to create worlds and characters.

I live in the English countryside. When I’m not writing, I like to get out there and think through the next scenario I’m going to throw my characters into.

Inspiration can be found anywhere, on a train, in a restaurant or in an office. I am always in search of the next character to find love in one of my stories. In a world of apps and online dating, it is important to remember love can be found when you least expect it.

Where to find them: