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Introduction:
Jennifer Dugan’s Playing for Keeps is a heartfelt young adult novel that explores love, ambition, and the challenges of breaking the rules. The story follows June, a dedicated pitcher with dreams of playing college softball, and Ivy, an aspiring umpire, as they navigate a forbidden romance. With themes of sports, identity, and personal growth, this novel resonates with readers who enjoy emotional and character-driven stories. If you loved Playing for Keeps, here are five other books that offer similar themes of romance, sports, and self-discovery.
1. Throw Like a Girl by Sarah Henning
Liv Rodinsky has always been a softball star, but after an altercation at her private school, she’s forced to transfer to a new high school where she has to prove herself all over again. When she joins the school’s football team as a quarterback to impress her new coach, she finds herself falling for the team’s star receiver. Like Playing for Keeps, this book highlights the pressures of being a female athlete, the struggles of balancing love and sports, and the emotional journey of proving one’s worth both on and off the field.
2. She Drives Me Crazy by Kelly Quindlen
Scottie Zajac, a basketball player still reeling from a breakup, and Irene Abraham, a head cheerleader with whom she has a history, are forced into an unlikely fake dating situation. While initially full of resentment, their relationship evolves into something real. She Drives Me Crazy shares Playing for Keeps’ themes of LGBTQ+ romance, sports competition, and overcoming emotional barriers. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic adds an entertaining twist, making it a must-read for fans of witty, heartfelt young adult romances.
3. Some Girls Do by Jennifer Dugan
Another fantastic novel by Jennifer Dugan, Some Girls Do tells the story of Morgan, an openly gay track star, and Ruby, a beauty queen struggling with her identity and her conservative upbringing. Their slow-burn romance is complicated by their different backgrounds and external pressures. Like Playing for Keeps, this book explores forbidden romance, self-acceptance, and the challenges of navigating personal aspirations while falling in love. Dugan’s signature emotional depth and realistic characters make this a compelling read.
4. The Passing Playbook by Isaac Fitzsimons
Spencer Harris, a transgender teen, is finally feeling comfortable in his new school and excelling in soccer—until a rule threatens to out him and end his season. When he develops feelings for his teammate, he must decide whether to risk everything to stand up for himself. This novel shares Playing for Keeps’s themes of identity, self-acceptance, and fighting for one’s dreams in a world full of obstacles. Fitzsimons delivers a touching story filled with heart and resilience.
5. Catch and Cradle by Katia Rose
Set in college, Catch and Cradle follows Becca and Hope, two lacrosse teammates whose intense chemistry threatens their team dynamic. They must navigate their romantic feelings while dealing with the pressures of competition and the fear of being outed. Much like Playing for Keeps, this novel balances sports and romance while capturing the emotional highs and lows of young love. The chemistry between the characters and the high-stakes sports setting make it a gripping read.
Final Thoughts
Playing for Keeps delivers an unforgettable story about love, ambition, and overcoming obstacles. If you’re looking for more books with similar themes of sports, romance, and self-discovery, these five recommendations will keep you engaged. Each book offers its own unique take on identity, relationships, and personal growth, making them perfect additions to your reading list.
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