The much-awaited The Striker, the first in the Gods of Game series, is finally out. The sports, spicy romance intertwines the worlds of Premier League football and ballet, delivering a narrative rich in emotion and complexity.

The Striker introduces us to Asher Donovan, whom we were first introduced to in King of Sloth. Asher is a celebrated Premier League footballer known for his prowess on the field and his tumultuous off-field antics. Following a transfer to Blackcastle, Asher's long-standing rivalry with teammate Vincent DuBois intensifies, adversely affecting team performance and costing them a World Cup. To mend their strained relationship, the coach enlists them for an off-season cross-training under the guidance of Scarlett DuBois — Vincent's sister and a former prima ballerina whose career was cut short by a tragic accident. As Asher and Scarlett navigate their professional commitments, an undeniable attraction blossoms, complicated by familial ties and past traumas.

As the plot progresses, Asher transitions from a stereotypical playboy athlete to a multifaceted character grappling with personal demons and familial expectations. Scarlett emerges as a resilient heroine, confronting her past while forging a new path. Their evolving relationship is portrayed with depth, highlighting themes of healing and personal growth.

There’s enough spice to liven up the narrative along with emotional intensity. Huang's meticulous depiction of both football and ballet showcases thorough research, adding authenticity to the story The prose effectively balances romantic tension with character development, engaging readers throughout.

The Striker offers a compelling fusion of sports and romance, enriched by well-developed characters and a thoughtfully crafted plot. While not exactly as good as her Twisted series, The Striker is a delightful read for fans of sports romance and a must for those who like Ana Huang’s work.

Title: The Striker

Author: Ana Huang

Publisher: Piatkus

Pages: 560

Price: Rs 750