A review by admya
False Start by Kandi Steiner

5.0

🏈 Sports Romance 
🏈 Fake Dating 
🏈 Second Chance 
🏈 Single Mom 
🏈 He Falls First 
🏈 “Who Hurt You” 
🏈 One Bed 

Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: 🌶️ 

"False Start" by Kandi Steiner is a heartfelt and emotionally charged romance that deftly blends themes of second chances, personal strength, and the transformative power of love. It tells the story of Kyle Robbins, a rookie tight end for Seattle’s football team, and Madelyn, the woman he once loved and hurt, who is now facing her own set of challenges. 

From the very beginning, Kandi Steiner hooks readers with the reappearance of Kyle in Madelyn's life. Their reunion is anything but smooth, marked by the unresolved tension and chemistry from their past. This initial encounter sets the stage for a gripping narrative where professional obligations, personal traumas, and past emotions intertwine. 

Madelyn is a compelling protagonist, portrayed with a mix of vulnerability and resilience. As a single mother trying to secure a better future for her son, she is both relatable and admirable. Her interactions with Kyle are fraught with the pain of their shared history, making her internal struggle and eventual thaw towards him both believable and moving. 

Kyle Robbins is depicted as a determined and somewhat repentant hero. His persistence in reconnecting with Madelyn, despite their complicated past, adds depth to his character. Kandi Steiner skillfully portrays his growth and his genuine desire to make amends and protect Madelyn. His reaction to discovering the bruises left by Madelyn’s abusive ex-husband is both protective and proactive, showcasing his innate goodness and concern for her well-being. 

The fake dating trope is handled with finesse, providing a perfect backdrop for Madelyn and Kyle to navigate their unresolved feelings. What begins as a practical arrangement to protect Madelyn from her ex-husband quickly evolves into something deeper and more meaningful. Kandi Steiner excels in building the slow-burn romance, with every touch and kiss steeped in history and unspoken emotions. The tension is palpable, making the progression from fake relationship to real love both inevitable and satisfying. 

Kandi Steiner’s writing is evocative and immersive, drawing readers into the characters’ lives and their emotional journeys. The dialogue is natural and engaging, and the pacing keeps the reader invested from start to finish.  

 "False Start" also tackles serious themes such as domestic abuse and personal redemption with sensitivity and care. Madelyn’s journey towards reclaiming her life and finding love again is inspiring, and Kyle’s role in that journey highlights the importance of support and understanding in overcoming past traumas. 

 Overall, "False Start" by Kandi Steiner is a beautifully crafted romance that combines emotional depth with the excitement of a second-chance love story. The characters are well-developed, the romance is both steamy and heartfelt, and the plot is engaging and thought-provoking. Fans of contemporary romance, especially those who enjoy stories of rekindled love and personal redemption, will find this book hard to put down.