Book: The No Try Zone by Valerie Pepper
Reviewed by Maggie Hayes
Rating: 3/5
ARC REVIEW
The No Try Zone by Valerie Pepper
⭐⭐⭐¼ (3.25/5)
A rugby romance? Say less. It’s such an underused sport in the genre, and this book really shines when we’re on the pitch. The balance between game play and romance felt strong, and I genuinely enjoyed those moments.
Sam and Colin’s whirlwind Vegas night—complete with an impulsive marriage (!!)—is easily the highlight. The chemistry is instant and electric, and the banter absolutely delivers. From dares and games of chance to that perfectly built first kiss, it’s easy to buy how something real could spark in just one night. It’s chaotic, fun, and fast-paced in the best way. And then… reality hits.
Sam was a bit of a mixed bag for me. I loved so much about her—her independence, her loyalty to her people, and her work ethic—but I struggled with how she handled the fallout from that night. Her frustration is valid, especially with Colin leaving without a word, but the lack of personal accountability made it harder for me to fully connect with her. It took me out of the story more than I wanted it to, which is a bummer because she has all the makings of a character I’d usually love.
Colin, on the other hand, grew on me. His decision to leave without a word the morning after their wedding didn’t sit right, but getting his perspective added some needed context that softened the blow a little. I appreciated his honesty about what he could realistically offer, even when it wasn’t the relationship that Sam wanted. That said, his communication skills definitely left something to be desired, which created some frustrating moments.
What lost me a bit in the story was the present-day relationship. The connection that felt so natural and compelling during their night in Vegas didn’t carry over fully. Outside of the physical chemistry, I wanted a little more emotional depth to understand why they kept finding their way back to each other.
Overall, this one had a strong, super-engaging start and a unique sports backdrop, but the character dynamics in the aftermath didn’t hit quite as hard for me.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC!