Playing for Keeps by Ranee' S. Clark

Football-loving TyAnne Daws has long admired BYU's star quarterback from afar. This semester, she's determined to step away from the sidelines and she has the perfect game plan for winning the heart of Anthony Rocket Rogers. When some smart moves land her in one of his classes, she finds herself in the perfect position to make her play. But as she gets to know the real Anthony, away from the lights of the stadium, Ty realizes that this is no game; she's falling in love . . .

Anthony takes full advantage of his all-star status, holding girls at arm's length for one reason: it keeps him from repeating the same mistakes that once led to a devastating heartbreak. When he meets Ty, his assumption that she's just another pretty face is quickly proven wrong. Though he's completely drawn in by this sweet young woman, her intriguing mix of amusing football know-how, and her quiet selflessness, he will not let himself fall in love. But when faced with the reality of losing the woman he's come to care for despite himself, Anthony's resolve is tested. It's getting harder to keep his head in the game when his heart's on the line.

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This book was so much fun!  It is the BYU college scene in full force with classes, friends and athletics.  It is also an LDS fiction book and there are religious elements and church events and activities mentioned but nothing overbearing.

Ty and Anthony are both fantastic characters.  Their personalities really shine through in this book.  I love how they both start off playing a sort of game- with themselves and with each other but then things shift and progress and evolve.  Ty is so well rounded and kind.  Not only does she know football as well as any of the team players, she can play like one of them too.  She impresses everyone with her football knowledge and with her quick mind and soft heart.  I really liked Ty.  And so did Anthony!  Except that Anthony tries to play the game a bit longer because he is a bit broken and a bit afraid.

I loved how the author brought in some meatier topics with the OCD of Anthony's sister and the stalker.  It helped give weight and texture to the story.

I enjoyed my time in this book.  My older teenage daughter read it too and loved it.  It was right up her alley.

My thanks to the publisher, Covenant, for allowing me to read and review this title for them.