Loser of the Year

By: Carrie Byrd

Narrated by: Krystal Hammond

An enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract lesbian romance about daring to take a risk, even if it burns you.

Mattie Belman's life has gone from dismal to desperate. After the loss of her acting career, her marriage, and her usual optimism, she's back home teaching high school theater. Maybe it'll be a fresh start.

St. Rita's arrogant soccer coach Jillian Reed sees Mattie's musical as an outrageous distraction for her champion players. When Jillian declares war, Mattie is far too stubborn to back down.

But as Mattie discovers there might be more to Jillian than spectacle, fire, and ego, she gets dangerously close to her iron-willed colleague. Can she avoid temptation? Or will the growing flame in Jillian's dark eyes ignite them both?

Contains mature themes.

©2024 Carrie Byrd (P)2025 Tantor Media

This novel may be a debut, but it reads as if penned by a seasoned author.

This novel may be a debut but it reads as if penned by a seasoned author. The poetic prose feels smooth and easy while also reframing common romantic language in delightful and refreshing ways. Byrd has created a character in Jillian Reed unlike any I’ve read in a romance. And she unpeels her—this bellicose, flawed, and unlikable character—in unexpected and unconventional ways.

There’s a reason this novel is a Golden Crown Literary Society Goldie Award Winner and a Lamba Literary Lammy Award Finalist (the winners have yet to be announced at the time of this review). This is such a well-written, captivating novel! Keep your eyes on this author!

Nice Story

A ton of people on social media recommended this book and it is a nice HEA. A few spicy scenes added to the mix as well.

Man, I'm still crying, just give it a chance you won't regret it.

Narrator is awesome and these MC's are so well rounded. Growing up on a conservative catholic household, a teatre fan, an eagles fan and a big time soccer fan, like what else can you ask for? This book has those moments when you're sincerely crying and then you get one of those absurd laughs from what Emily just said, hilarious and intense. Thank you to the author I'm so happy I got to experience this book, and keep them coming!

Loved every second!

Great story with just the right amount of drama. Made me laugh and my heart soar.

Loved this!!!

Fell in love with these beautifully flawed characters ❤️ Such an amazing debut book Carrie Byrd. The narration by Krystal is immaculate.