Review: The Striker (Gods of the Game #1) by Ana Huang

Plot Summary

She's the only woman he wants...and the only one he can't have.

Asher Donovan is a living legend—the darling of the Premier League, the (arguably) greatest footballer in the world.

But his reckless antics and recent team transfer have caused much controversy, and when his feud with his rival-turned-teammate costs them a championship, they’re forced to “bond” during off-season cross-training.

Surviving the summer shouldn’t be hard…until Asher meets their new trainer. She’s beautiful, talented, and no matter how hard he tries, he can’t take his mind off her.

The only problem? She’s his rival’s sister—and completely off limits.

***

Scarlett DuBois is a former prima ballerina whose career was cut short by a tragic accident.

Now a teacher at a prestigious dance academy but still haunted by the ghosts of her past, the last thing she wants is to spend the summer cross-training Asher Donovan, of all people .

She swore she would never date a footballer, but when her brother leaves town for an emergency, she finds herself thrown into dangerously close proximity with the gorgeous, charming striker.

Training, she can deal with. But falling in love? That’s out of the question—especially when he’s the only person with the power to break her heart.

My Review

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

The Striker by Ana Huang is a deeply emotional and electrifying sports romance that captivates from start to finish. Set in the world of professional football, the book follows Asher Donovan, a star player whose career and personal demons are as intense as his on-field performance, and Scarlett DuBois, a former ballerina whose promising career was cut short by a tragic accident. Now working as a dance teacher and personal trainer, Scarlett is unexpectedly roped into a high-stakes off-season training program with Asher, sparking a slow-burning romance between them.

The romance between Asher and Scarlett is beautifully layered, with tension, vulnerability, and deep emotional connection. Asher’s confident, brooding exterior hides a man grappling with his past, while Scarlett’s strength and emotional depth make her an ideal match for him. Their chemistry is palpable, and their slow-burn relationship is compelling, built on mutual respect, trust, and emotional healing. Each interaction between them is charged with intensity, making their journey together feel both heartfelt and authentic.

Huang excels in creating characters with depth and complexity, and their evolving romance feels genuine and earned. The emotional stakes of the story, combined with the raw chemistry between the leads, make The Striker an unforgettable read.

In conclusion, The Striker is a beautifully crafted romance with strong character development, an electrifying love story, and a perfect blend of passion and heart. It’s an excellent start to the Gods of the Game series and a must-read for sports romance lovers.