Fourth and Goal

by Jami Davenport

[Cocktails and Books]

Derek Ramsey is an amazing athlete struggling to keep his job in the game he loves. He is an NFL wide receiver whose talent should make him a future hall of famer but after an injury during his rookie season he has continually struggled and knows that this season will be his last if he can’t turn his game around. The one woman who can help him is Rachel McCormick, former best friend and caretaker who knows football better than most men. A weekend rendezvous five years ago had left their friendship in tatters, but Rachel is willing to help her former friend improve his game. Using her unconventional method of sex as a pre-game tension reliever Derek has some of the best games he’s ever played, but how will he react when he finds out the real reason Rachel took the job?

Book one in Jami Davenport’s Lumberjack series provides a cast of characters that sets the backdrop of the series. Her first hero, Derek, is a prime example of great talent that hasn’t measured up to his potential. It is almost painful to watch his struggles with football, but it is admirable to see the lengths he will go to in order to improve himself and stay in the game. Rachel is a girl living in a man’s world, constantly trying to prove her knowledge of football and break into the industry as a scout. Rachel’s sudden reappearance in Derek’s life after five years is not accidental, and she struggles with her family loyalty and her renewed relationship. Davenport gives both characters their own obstacles to overcome while also making them loveable. Interwoven throughout are other characters such as Derek’s cousin, Tyler, and a special young man name Ryan that enhance the story between Derek and Rachel.

Reviewed by Lucy for Cocktails and Books