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Everything's Better With You
Everything’s Better With You is a TED LASSO-inspired sports-themed funny romance featuring two guys who've pined for each other for 15 years while their careers soared and their bodies fell apart. Retired quarterback and “nicest guy in the NFL” Leslie Payton met former college cheerleader-turned-reality-show darling Joe Judd fifteen years ago. They spent one magical night...talking. They’ve been pining for each other via text and phone calls ever since while their careers kept them geographically apart. When their alma mater recruits them to reinvigorate a flagging athletic program, Leslie is thrilled to finally have Joe close enough to see if their “what if” can become a reality. And the sooner the better before Leslie’s history of Traumatic Brain Injury catches up to him and he’s unable to be a true partner. Joe has spent their years apart dancing on reality TV, Broadway, and concert tours, knowing full well the clock is ticking on his body’s ability to continue taking the abuse. Leslie wants forever to start now, and Joe doesn’t have that luxury, though Leslie makes him want things he’s never allowed himself to dream of with anyone else. But a lifetime of only feeling worthwhile for his performance ability makes him doubt whether he could ever be a good coach or enough of a partner for the best man he’s ever known. As football and cheer coaches, they’re forced to be rivals in public, but behind closed doors, their chemistry is unstoppable. A wager triggers their competitive sides, but the secrets they keep come to light and present them with a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. Can they finally meet on the relationship 50-yard line and move forward as a team?
Recommended for readers 18 and up who love open and honest dialogue about sex, and challenges to toxic masculinity. Also mesh crop tops, gratuitous shirtless car wash scenes, phone sex therapy, and all the pining.
Recommended for readers 18 and up who love open and honest dialogue about sex, and challenges to toxic masculinity. Also mesh crop tops, gratuitous shirtless car wash scenes, phone sex therapy, and all the pining.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2023
21 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
R.L. Merrill
77 books697 followersWhether she’s writing contemporary romance featuring quirky, queer, and relatable characters or diving deep into the supernatural to give readers a shiver, R.L. Merrill loves creating compelling stories that will stay with readers long after closing the book. Ro writes inclusive romance for the Happily Ever After collective, contributes paranormal hilarity to Robyn Peterman’s Magic and Mayhem Universe, and pens horror-inspired tales and music reviews for HorrorAddicts.net. A mom, wife, daughter, and former educator, you can find her rocking out in her Bronco with Great Dane pup Velma, being terrorized by feline twins Dracula and Frankenstein, or headbanging at a rock show near her home in the San Francisco Bay Area! Stay Tuned for more…
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 7, 2023
4.5 stars ⭐
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
Everything's Better With You was such a beautiful sports romance book I have read. This was my first ever read by author R.L Merrill and I loved every freaking second of this book.
“𝗜𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝘂𝘀. 𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗲, 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝗹𝗶𝗲, 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲, 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗲.”
Leslie was the retired 'nicest guy' of the NFL, who had returned to his hometown to be a football coach at his alma mater and be close to his family.
Joe was a Broadway dancer & choreographer for a reality show and had returned to his alma mater for Spring Fling. But the director of his alma mater had asked him to coach the cheer team and stay in Greenvale.
Joe & Leslie had met 15 years ago at Spring Fling and had talked all night and had an instant connection but they didn't take anything further because Joe wanted his career more than anything and wanted to make his dream. In that 15 years, Joe & Leslie had been in touch and met at social gatherings while they were in the same city. They had both been pinning for each other for 15 years but Joe was not that committed to being with Leslie so he usually didn't meet up with Leslie or cancel his plans, it was very heartbreaking for Leslie because he was in love with him.
After 15 years when they met together at the place where they first met, they thought about being together with each other. They both didn't want to lose this chance of trying to see if they had a future together. I loved how beautifully their feelings were written by Merrill; when Leslie & Joe were flirting, I had this giddy grin on my face I loved them so much. Even when they had some difficulties in their relationship because of Leslie's illness and they had to stay apart, their love for each other never faded. I loved the banter between the Payton brothers & I loved the troubled twins I liked their interactions with Joe & Leslie. I also loved the cheer kids and how they adored Joe. This book was the best sports romance I have read this year, it had everything; you could feel their love & the pain, and the author had written this book so beautifully.
"𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝘁𝗼𝗽𝘀 𝗺𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲.”
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
Everything's Better With You was such a beautiful sports romance book I have read. This was my first ever read by author R.L Merrill and I loved every freaking second of this book.
“𝗜𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝘂𝘀. 𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗲, 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝗹𝗶𝗲, 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲, 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘄, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗲.”
Leslie was the retired 'nicest guy' of the NFL, who had returned to his hometown to be a football coach at his alma mater and be close to his family.
Joe was a Broadway dancer & choreographer for a reality show and had returned to his alma mater for Spring Fling. But the director of his alma mater had asked him to coach the cheer team and stay in Greenvale.
Joe & Leslie had met 15 years ago at Spring Fling and had talked all night and had an instant connection but they didn't take anything further because Joe wanted his career more than anything and wanted to make his dream. In that 15 years, Joe & Leslie had been in touch and met at social gatherings while they were in the same city. They had both been pinning for each other for 15 years but Joe was not that committed to being with Leslie so he usually didn't meet up with Leslie or cancel his plans, it was very heartbreaking for Leslie because he was in love with him.
After 15 years when they met together at the place where they first met, they thought about being together with each other. They both didn't want to lose this chance of trying to see if they had a future together. I loved how beautifully their feelings were written by Merrill; when Leslie & Joe were flirting, I had this giddy grin on my face I loved them so much. Even when they had some difficulties in their relationship because of Leslie's illness and they had to stay apart, their love for each other never faded. I loved the banter between the Payton brothers & I loved the troubled twins I liked their interactions with Joe & Leslie. I also loved the cheer kids and how they adored Joe. This book was the best sports romance I have read this year, it had everything; you could feel their love & the pain, and the author had written this book so beautifully.
"𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝘁𝗼𝗽𝘀 𝗺𝘆 𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲.”
May 17, 2023
Could be considered a second chance romance, although they really weren’t together before. Fun romance about an ex-NFL player and a dancer. They met 15 years ago and now find themselves teaching at the same college. It’s a slow burn – not too much sex and nothing too spicy until late in the book. If you are looking for nothing but sex, you won’t find it here. This is a great story with characters you will love and want to know more about. There are some side characters that I would love to read more about so hopefully this won’t be a standalone.
I received this book as an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest opinion
I received this book as an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest opinion
May 11, 2023
I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who loves sport, American football and Cheerleading in particular, but also strong, independent stubborn guys, who know what and who they want... eventually 🙄 The 15 year blossoming of the relationship between Joe and Leslie is a joy to read and also visualise, there is such affection for each other, which gives hope for the future. On the other hand, Joe wanted to make me tear my hair out! I really felt for Leslie, so cute, so loving and caring, also, incredibly patient with Joe.
This book also tackles difficult situations, but deals with them in a sympathetic and loving way that kind of make you want to hug this fantastic couple.The ending was magnificent, my heart sang for Joe and Leslie ❤️ I'm hoping there'll be a fabulous next instalment, if this is a series, with Sandy and Randy. They need their HEA. If you read this, be prepared to laugh out loud, but to also cry. Really enjoyed it x
This book also tackles difficult situations, but deals with them in a sympathetic and loving way that kind of make you want to hug this fantastic couple.The ending was magnificent, my heart sang for Joe and Leslie ❤️ I'm hoping there'll be a fabulous next instalment, if this is a series, with Sandy and Randy. They need their HEA. If you read this, be prepared to laugh out loud, but to also cry. Really enjoyed it x
June 2, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
So, unfortunately, this book didn’t work for me and the main culprit was the pacing. We enter in on a relationship 15 years in the making, so there’s no sense of tension between the main pair. Instead, it feels like we come into the story to a couple already in the midst of the settling into their grove. The relationship is taken for granted, so there’s no build and release of tension or appreciation of the journey they’ve taken to get there. All of that happened before the book even started. At this point in the story, Joe and Leslie are old friends. Best friends. And Joe wants to take it to the next level and sleep with Leslie, then move in and start building that white picket fence before Leslie escapes. But even Joe’s obsession feels hollow, as he’s talking about the 15 years of courting, chasing Leslie down, dreaming about Leslie … but I felt like I was reading the second book in a series, with no idea what had happened in book one.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3 stars
So, unfortunately, this book didn’t work for me and the main culprit was the pacing. We enter in on a relationship 15 years in the making, so there’s no sense of tension between the main pair. Instead, it feels like we come into the story to a couple already in the midst of the settling into their grove. The relationship is taken for granted, so there’s no build and release of tension or appreciation of the journey they’ve taken to get there. All of that happened before the book even started. At this point in the story, Joe and Leslie are old friends. Best friends. And Joe wants to take it to the next level and sleep with Leslie, then move in and start building that white picket fence before Leslie escapes. But even Joe’s obsession feels hollow, as he’s talking about the 15 years of courting, chasing Leslie down, dreaming about Leslie … but I felt like I was reading the second book in a series, with no idea what had happened in book one.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
July 2, 2025
Havent a clue who , or what Ted Lasso is but i wish i had known in advance if it would have made the book better.
Im not a mad fan of sports books ( unless i like the sport ), too much macho attitudes too many sporty quotes and references .
Didnt particularly relate to the MCs ( cant even remember their names .
May give the author 1 more go 🤷♀️🤷♀️
Im not a mad fan of sports books ( unless i like the sport ), too much macho attitudes too many sporty quotes and references .
Didnt particularly relate to the MCs ( cant even remember their names .
May give the author 1 more go 🤷♀️🤷♀️
May 31, 2023
In Ayre Valley, Iowa lives the Payton family. Leslie “Les” Payton is forty-five and has retired from the NFL after having a very successful career. But retirement hasn’t stopped him from still being very much involved in the sport and all that comes with it. He followed in his father’s, Rick Payton’s, footsteps in the football world. At the age fifty-two, Rick passed away from a stroke and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy.
Les and his older brother Barry were there to support their mother, Agnes. They helped raise twin brothers, Sandy and Randy, now in their twenties. As the younger boys came later into Agnes and Ricks life. Les especially was very much involved in the younger brothers lives and they became successful in their own way. Eldest brother Barry was not only a teacher but now President of the Greenville College.
Joe Judd, thirty-six, is returning home after leaving in 2008, fifteen years ago. He’s come to attend the Yellowjacket’s Spring Fling in recognition of the Cheer Squad. For Joe it’s his first year reunion and returning to Ayre Valley. Joe left for the glitz and glamor of Hollywood and became a big star as a professional dancer with a TV show, Dance Machine and possibilities for Broadway. He’s so much more: instructor, choreographer, motivator, nurturer and still get’s top of the line offers to perform. He also get’s to see Les Payton!
Joe’s very curious about what’s really going on, when he meets with Les. They head to the college to meet with Barry. Barry has a proposition for both Les and Joe. He want’s to rebuild the reputation of Greenville College and it’s Athletic department, as it’s started to lose it’s popularity. To have Les on board as footballs head coach is a big attraction for the college. To bring in the famous Joe Judd of dance, will be even more appealing. As he was popular with the cheer leading/dance team at school. But Joe has many decisions to make on his return to California. Will he take Barry up on the offer? And what of Les? He too, has to make decisions about Joe and the life ahead of them.
R.L. Merrill has created a heart warming story of family, friends, fun and love, with happiness, sadness, and drama. From Les Payton and Joe Judd, two young men who found a special love and now years later, who are older and are feeling those aches and pains that come with age and the stress and strain of both their careers. Especially for Les, where he fears for what is to come with the continuing headaches and being under doctors care. For Joe, he feels he hasn’t met the level of his career yet and still want’s to go as far as he can before it all ends. There’s many worries and secrets that are keeping them from that last final step.
The author also brings a wonderful cast of characters to the story: The Payton’s: Agnes, Barry and Evelyn, Sandy and Randy, who brought the humor; Marti and Terrance Simmons and their son, Terell; and all the enjoyable students of the cheer squad and football team.
I commend the author for covering the serious subject matter of CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) in football. But most of all, I thank R.L. Merrill, for sharing her personal experiences and her love of cheer leading and dance that’s expressed in the “Foreword.” I highly recommend “Everything’s Better With You” a story that’s told from the heart of R.L. Merrill.
Les and his older brother Barry were there to support their mother, Agnes. They helped raise twin brothers, Sandy and Randy, now in their twenties. As the younger boys came later into Agnes and Ricks life. Les especially was very much involved in the younger brothers lives and they became successful in their own way. Eldest brother Barry was not only a teacher but now President of the Greenville College.
Joe Judd, thirty-six, is returning home after leaving in 2008, fifteen years ago. He’s come to attend the Yellowjacket’s Spring Fling in recognition of the Cheer Squad. For Joe it’s his first year reunion and returning to Ayre Valley. Joe left for the glitz and glamor of Hollywood and became a big star as a professional dancer with a TV show, Dance Machine and possibilities for Broadway. He’s so much more: instructor, choreographer, motivator, nurturer and still get’s top of the line offers to perform. He also get’s to see Les Payton!
Joe’s very curious about what’s really going on, when he meets with Les. They head to the college to meet with Barry. Barry has a proposition for both Les and Joe. He want’s to rebuild the reputation of Greenville College and it’s Athletic department, as it’s started to lose it’s popularity. To have Les on board as footballs head coach is a big attraction for the college. To bring in the famous Joe Judd of dance, will be even more appealing. As he was popular with the cheer leading/dance team at school. But Joe has many decisions to make on his return to California. Will he take Barry up on the offer? And what of Les? He too, has to make decisions about Joe and the life ahead of them.
R.L. Merrill has created a heart warming story of family, friends, fun and love, with happiness, sadness, and drama. From Les Payton and Joe Judd, two young men who found a special love and now years later, who are older and are feeling those aches and pains that come with age and the stress and strain of both their careers. Especially for Les, where he fears for what is to come with the continuing headaches and being under doctors care. For Joe, he feels he hasn’t met the level of his career yet and still want’s to go as far as he can before it all ends. There’s many worries and secrets that are keeping them from that last final step.
The author also brings a wonderful cast of characters to the story: The Payton’s: Agnes, Barry and Evelyn, Sandy and Randy, who brought the humor; Marti and Terrance Simmons and their son, Terell; and all the enjoyable students of the cheer squad and football team.
I commend the author for covering the serious subject matter of CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) in football. But most of all, I thank R.L. Merrill, for sharing her personal experiences and her love of cheer leading and dance that’s expressed in the “Foreword.” I highly recommend “Everything’s Better With You” a story that’s told from the heart of R.L. Merrill.
May 29, 2023
Four and a half stars
EVERYTHING IS BETTER WITH YOU by RL Merrill is a delightful right timing, athletes, slow burn taking place on a small college campus. Retired football player turned coach Leslie Payton is back at Greenvale College in Missouri, where he and his siblings are preparing to help the school reclaim its stellar standing by revamping its programs and improving their recruiting. One part of that is signing alum and professional dancer Joe Judd to head up the cheer and dance programs. Leslie and Joe shared one life-changing night together years ago…talking and baring their hearts. The intervening time has seen them both meet with tremendous professional success, and now maybe they have a chance to see whether the promise they both felt that night might bloom into more.
RL Merrill writes with authority about high level athletes and the painful challenges they face. Leslie and Joe are no strangers to pushing their bodies to their limits. It’s also a pleasure to enjoy their interactions not just with each other but with their families and friends. Leslie’s brothers are enthusiastic supporters of both of them, as is Joe’s BFF.
Everything Is Better With You is a terrific read, and I rooted for Joe and Leslie (even as I sometimes wanted to give Joe a good talking to, LOL) all the way. I would love to read more set in this warmly written universe.
EVERYTHING IS BETTER WITH YOU by RL Merrill is a delightful right timing, athletes, slow burn taking place on a small college campus. Retired football player turned coach Leslie Payton is back at Greenvale College in Missouri, where he and his siblings are preparing to help the school reclaim its stellar standing by revamping its programs and improving their recruiting. One part of that is signing alum and professional dancer Joe Judd to head up the cheer and dance programs. Leslie and Joe shared one life-changing night together years ago…talking and baring their hearts. The intervening time has seen them both meet with tremendous professional success, and now maybe they have a chance to see whether the promise they both felt that night might bloom into more.
RL Merrill writes with authority about high level athletes and the painful challenges they face. Leslie and Joe are no strangers to pushing their bodies to their limits. It’s also a pleasure to enjoy their interactions not just with each other but with their families and friends. Leslie’s brothers are enthusiastic supporters of both of them, as is Joe’s BFF.
Everything Is Better With You is a terrific read, and I rooted for Joe and Leslie (even as I sometimes wanted to give Joe a good talking to, LOL) all the way. I would love to read more set in this warmly written universe.
June 4, 2023
Joe and Leslie 💋
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I did not see this story coming and I am so glad that I gave it a chance! I adored it, Joe and Leslie were such well written, lovable characters and they're love story...Chef's Kiss 💋 I am going to be vague with this review, with that being said: I can honestly say that this is an absolute must read for any lover of sports themed M/M romance, but here's the thing, this was so much more than your typical romance, it was laugh out loud hilarious, it was sweet as sugar and it will break your heart!! These two, they share a love that is most definitely long game love, the scenes weren't overly spicy but this story more than made up for that in heart, humor and love. I adored it, I can most definitely say that this will be on my list of favorites, it was wonderful and I 100% recommend this read.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I did not see this story coming and I am so glad that I gave it a chance! I adored it, Joe and Leslie were such well written, lovable characters and they're love story...Chef's Kiss 💋 I am going to be vague with this review, with that being said: I can honestly say that this is an absolute must read for any lover of sports themed M/M romance, but here's the thing, this was so much more than your typical romance, it was laugh out loud hilarious, it was sweet as sugar and it will break your heart!! These two, they share a love that is most definitely long game love, the scenes weren't overly spicy but this story more than made up for that in heart, humor and love. I adored it, I can most definitely say that this will be on my list of favorites, it was wonderful and I 100% recommend this read.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
June 17, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 ⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is my first book by this author and I really loved it. We have Joe and Leslie who met one night 15 years prior to the story, but due to their lives, Joe was an up and coming dancer and Leslie a famous quarterback, only decided to be friends. Thus started an on again/off again beautiful friendship. They are finally in the same state, working together at their old college. This is where the angst starts cuz Joe is scared to death to start up anything with Leslie and run the risk of losing him somehow. There were times Leslie was so sweet and understanding that I got upset with Joe for not just giving in to the sweet man. Finally, Joe does give in and the story heats way up. I loved both MCs and thought they were perfect for each other. The epilogue had me in tears!
This is my first book by this author and I really loved it. We have Joe and Leslie who met one night 15 years prior to the story, but due to their lives, Joe was an up and coming dancer and Leslie a famous quarterback, only decided to be friends. Thus started an on again/off again beautiful friendship. They are finally in the same state, working together at their old college. This is where the angst starts cuz Joe is scared to death to start up anything with Leslie and run the risk of losing him somehow. There were times Leslie was so sweet and understanding that I got upset with Joe for not just giving in to the sweet man. Finally, Joe does give in and the story heats way up. I loved both MCs and thought they were perfect for each other. The epilogue had me in tears!
May 15, 2023
I loved these characters! This book was good. Talk about the epic levels of pining though. These two were something else. Be aware that there are talks of chronic conditions in this story. That hit a little close to home as someone very near and dear to me suffers from a chronic condition and pain. These are some hard truths discussed in this book but it has its sweet moment too. Joe and Leslie may be rivals on the field, but they are so something so much deeper off it. If only they can figure out how to make things work for real. Leslie has wanted Joe for 15 years. Joe feels the same but what is he afraid of? It’s a sweet story and these two have some insane chemistry.
May 21, 2023
Good things are worth waiting for and these two find that out. I liked the relationship between these two, that they loved but timing wasn’t right. I enjoyed their journey, their ups and downs, their family dynamic and their love story. This book makes you smile, it makes you feel good and it makes you happy. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
May 31, 2023
I was hooked on this story almost from the beginning. I really enjoyed following along as Joe and Leslie's relationship developed during this story.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
June 4, 2023
I wasn't sure what to expect with this story, the description was intriguing but I was sure how they would work out... Well Joe and Leslie worked well together once they eventually were able to be together.
I really appreciated how R.L. wrote about real issues that occur for people who play physical sports. Whether that's cheerleading, football, baseball, soccer, etc. I liked that this highlighted actual problems, that happen when people pushes their bodies to the limits. Les being so concerned that he would develop the condition his dad has that completely changed the man he knew, made me tear up. And with Joe saying his body was starting to rebel against him hurt my heart. I don't think I ever really considered how much of a physical tole doing those sports took on the athletes bodies. But I know now, and I enjoy that I learned something.
This book was very much a slow burn, these characters took their time getting together. Which I did appreciate. I enjoyed the details of the cheerleading dynamics and the football dynamics as well. It was cool to get a sort of background view into sports I don't typically know much information about.
I loved the case of side characters, they were such great characters and added not only humor, but also helped move the story along. I do wish that there wasn't that moment when Joe got mad and Les for Les not trusting him. While I an see it from both sides; Joe in the 15 years Les knew him, didn't give Les much for him to trust Joe. So I thought that scene was a bit.. unfair? But It worked out. The ending was so great, I loved how it incorporated not only their family but also the two sports they were both passionate about.
Overall a really nice book!
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
I really appreciated how R.L. wrote about real issues that occur for people who play physical sports. Whether that's cheerleading, football, baseball, soccer, etc. I liked that this highlighted actual problems, that happen when people pushes their bodies to the limits. Les being so concerned that he would develop the condition his dad has that completely changed the man he knew, made me tear up. And with Joe saying his body was starting to rebel against him hurt my heart. I don't think I ever really considered how much of a physical tole doing those sports took on the athletes bodies. But I know now, and I enjoy that I learned something.
This book was very much a slow burn, these characters took their time getting together. Which I did appreciate. I enjoyed the details of the cheerleading dynamics and the football dynamics as well. It was cool to get a sort of background view into sports I don't typically know much information about.
I loved the case of side characters, they were such great characters and added not only humor, but also helped move the story along. I do wish that there wasn't that moment when Joe got mad and Les for Les not trusting him. While I an see it from both sides; Joe in the 15 years Les knew him, didn't give Les much for him to trust Joe. So I thought that scene was a bit.. unfair? But It worked out. The ending was so great, I loved how it incorporated not only their family but also the two sports they were both passionate about.
Overall a really nice book!
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
July 4, 2023
I started reading this book with pretty high expectations, because 1) I loved Ted Lasso and 2) I love the pining/friends to lovers trope. Sadly, it wasn't what I expected and I feel a bit let down.
What I liked:
-I really appreciated the way the author managed to portray the passion around sports, especially Joe's love and belonging in dance. I never in a million year would call myself sporty nor do I get the surrounding hype, but the book gives you a small inside view into this world.
-The writing itself was easy to read and flowed smoothly, which I'll always appreciate.
What I didn't like:
-The character development and characterizations felt lacking. We never really understand why Leslie is the so-called "nicest man in the NFL". He's fine, but nicest? No. Also, we never understand Joe's reluctance or fears in starting a relationship with Leslie; he doesn't have to choose one or the other, there are ways to get both, which leads me to my third point.
-The relationship. I'm sorry, but I got bored fast of their yes-no, hot-cold attitude. All of their problems were self-imposed and could've been easily solved with one honest conversation.
-I honestly couldn't stand the brothers. They were so annoying, and also who refers to their siblings as brother and their name. It was unnerving.
Anyway, I wouldn't catalog this as a bad read, but it wasn't for me.
What I liked:
-I really appreciated the way the author managed to portray the passion around sports, especially Joe's love and belonging in dance. I never in a million year would call myself sporty nor do I get the surrounding hype, but the book gives you a small inside view into this world.
-The writing itself was easy to read and flowed smoothly, which I'll always appreciate.
What I didn't like:
-The character development and characterizations felt lacking. We never really understand why Leslie is the so-called "nicest man in the NFL". He's fine, but nicest? No. Also, we never understand Joe's reluctance or fears in starting a relationship with Leslie; he doesn't have to choose one or the other, there are ways to get both, which leads me to my third point.
-The relationship. I'm sorry, but I got bored fast of their yes-no, hot-cold attitude. All of their problems were self-imposed and could've been easily solved with one honest conversation.
-I honestly couldn't stand the brothers. They were so annoying, and also who refers to their siblings as brother and their name. It was unnerving.
Anyway, I wouldn't catalog this as a bad read, but it wasn't for me.
June 2, 2023
A VERY SLOW BURN FRIENDS TO LOVERS!
“Everything’s better with you, isn’t it?”
This was really a slow burn of fifteen years in the making that finally reaches a point when Leslie Payton former NHL quarterback and coach now 45 years of age faces getting a brain disease as a result of all the concussions as a player….
Former cheerleader and now dance coach and choreographer 36 year old Joe “Twinkle Toes Judd returns to Ayrre Valley Iowa fifteen years later at the request of the Greenvale school president to consider a position to coach the cheer squad and this is where Les and Joes journey to deepen a long awaited fifteen year courtship begins…
A funny, poignant low angst love story about two guys who pined after each other for fifteen years while keeping in touch after one magical night of talking… now they are finally together but Leslie is keeping a secret from Joe…
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
“Everything’s better with you, isn’t it?”
This was really a slow burn of fifteen years in the making that finally reaches a point when Leslie Payton former NHL quarterback and coach now 45 years of age faces getting a brain disease as a result of all the concussions as a player….
Former cheerleader and now dance coach and choreographer 36 year old Joe “Twinkle Toes Judd returns to Ayrre Valley Iowa fifteen years later at the request of the Greenvale school president to consider a position to coach the cheer squad and this is where Les and Joes journey to deepen a long awaited fifteen year courtship begins…
A funny, poignant low angst love story about two guys who pined after each other for fifteen years while keeping in touch after one magical night of talking… now they are finally together but Leslie is keeping a secret from Joe…
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
June 3, 2023
One of the most heartwarming feel good love stories I have read in a long time—awesome characters with great plot and great supporting characters. Joe and Leslie had one magical night but timing not work but they did maintain regular communication. Now they are invited back to their Alma mater to help save the college and old feelings resurfaces but so does the old issue of career vs relationship. Leslie is ready to settle down but joe remains focused and committed to his dance career. A great story of can you have both or do you have to sacrifice one for the other.? A truly wonderful slow burn, low angst love story and I absolutely loved Leslie’s twin brothers. They made me laugh out loud. This is what family should be. Please let there be a second book of this fantastic group. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
March 26, 2025
I’m being very generous with my stars here. That was lots of words to get to the end of this book.
Let’s see. How to explain… The author gives backstory in weird chunks. But like later in the book and randomly. Leslie will have pages of thoughts about all the things. Same for Joe. Just long ass paragraphs meandering about Leslie’s need to settle down and Joe’s absenteeism in Leslie’s life. Meandering paragraphs about Joe’s dancing and his need to keep dancing. But they never talk to each other about annnyyy of it.
Joe teases Leslie with his morning drink of choice, saying he can learn it when he stays the night. We then spend the whole book waiting for Leslie to learn how Joe starts his morning wayyyyy after they’d already spent nights together supposedly. Oh and we find out through their thoughts that they’d already spent nights together randomly after the huge buildup. And it gets like 2 sentences.
Let’s see… I guess we never really see why they are attracted to one another. Their thoughts never really get us there. Maybe it would’ve helped to have a prologue with their first meeting. Or any of their correspondence over the 15 years. Turns out, they don’t know anything about each other.
-He’d had a glimmer of hope, but that was it. He couldn’t hope for a life with Joe. He needed to plan for a future that involved working on himself and taking care of his family.-
And this was after being told that Joe wanted to keep dancing, NOT that Joe wanted to break up with him. Seriously, Leslie’s attitude is kinda crap telling Joe that it was basically dance or him. So, yeah, there’s also that.
This is the slowest slow burn that burnt out in the middle and reignited very near the end. That’s when the cheese gets spread really goddammed thick and I started skimming.
I couldn’t leave another book in my DNF, especially this far into it. But it was a close call.
Let’s see. How to explain… The author gives backstory in weird chunks. But like later in the book and randomly. Leslie will have pages of thoughts about all the things. Same for Joe. Just long ass paragraphs meandering about Leslie’s need to settle down and Joe’s absenteeism in Leslie’s life. Meandering paragraphs about Joe’s dancing and his need to keep dancing. But they never talk to each other about annnyyy of it.
Joe teases Leslie with his morning drink of choice, saying he can learn it when he stays the night. We then spend the whole book waiting for Leslie to learn how Joe starts his morning wayyyyy after they’d already spent nights together supposedly. Oh and we find out through their thoughts that they’d already spent nights together randomly after the huge buildup. And it gets like 2 sentences.
Let’s see… I guess we never really see why they are attracted to one another. Their thoughts never really get us there. Maybe it would’ve helped to have a prologue with their first meeting. Or any of their correspondence over the 15 years. Turns out, they don’t know anything about each other.
-He’d had a glimmer of hope, but that was it. He couldn’t hope for a life with Joe. He needed to plan for a future that involved working on himself and taking care of his family.-
And this was after being told that Joe wanted to keep dancing, NOT that Joe wanted to break up with him. Seriously, Leslie’s attitude is kinda crap telling Joe that it was basically dance or him. So, yeah, there’s also that.
This is the slowest slow burn that burnt out in the middle and reignited very near the end. That’s when the cheese gets spread really goddammed thick and I started skimming.
I couldn’t leave another book in my DNF, especially this far into it. But it was a close call.
May 28, 2023
What are those famous sayings? Patience is a virtue and all good things come to those who wait…well, truer words could not be said when it comes to Leslie and Joe. Theirs is a relationship 15 years in the making; making Everything's Better With You one helluva sweet slow burn.
Our MCs meet as the current big fish in the Greenvale pond (Joe, the about to be superstar dancer) and the returning hero (Leslie, the NFL quarterback) when they have a platonic encounter at Spring Fling. Over the years the men form a solid bond of friendship that masks boatloads of pining for each other. They're finally in the same place at the same time when Greenvale needs a football coach and a cheerleading coach.
There's so much to love about this book, starting with the fabulous cast of characters. Both Joe and Les are engaging, multi-layered characters with lots of positive traits and vulnerabilities that drive their behaviour; both are also dealing with serious physical fallouts from their careers. The road to their HEA might not be a quick or an easy one, but there's absolutely no doubting that these guys belong together. Then there are the great side characters: Leslie's family and Joe’s assistant coach and her family are warm, funny and loyal…brilliant!
I just really do get along with this author's writing style, and I especially appreciate the kind of honesty that comes across - there's either a lot (A LOT!) of research gone into writing this book, or some lived experience…or maybe a bit of both. Either way, the situations the men are going through are treated with sensitivity and written in a way that garners empathy. I also love all the music references. :)
Overall, I found this to be a hugely entertaining read. I'd be very happy if there were more books in the Greenvale universe in the future. It's 4.5* from me.
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review
Our MCs meet as the current big fish in the Greenvale pond (Joe, the about to be superstar dancer) and the returning hero (Leslie, the NFL quarterback) when they have a platonic encounter at Spring Fling. Over the years the men form a solid bond of friendship that masks boatloads of pining for each other. They're finally in the same place at the same time when Greenvale needs a football coach and a cheerleading coach.
There's so much to love about this book, starting with the fabulous cast of characters. Both Joe and Les are engaging, multi-layered characters with lots of positive traits and vulnerabilities that drive their behaviour; both are also dealing with serious physical fallouts from their careers. The road to their HEA might not be a quick or an easy one, but there's absolutely no doubting that these guys belong together. Then there are the great side characters: Leslie's family and Joe’s assistant coach and her family are warm, funny and loyal…brilliant!
I just really do get along with this author's writing style, and I especially appreciate the kind of honesty that comes across - there's either a lot (A LOT!) of research gone into writing this book, or some lived experience…or maybe a bit of both. Either way, the situations the men are going through are treated with sensitivity and written in a way that garners empathy. I also love all the music references. :)
Overall, I found this to be a hugely entertaining read. I'd be very happy if there were more books in the Greenvale universe in the future. It's 4.5* from me.
An ARC was provided by GRR. This is my honest review
June 4, 2023
Beautifully written romance
My first book by R.L. Merrill and I loved it. The author tells us in the Foreword of her own experiences with chronic pain, and all that agony and worry and secrecy and determination and sheer exhaustion that comes from pushing your body beyond its limits and then going just a bit further is laid out bare on the page.
Joe is at the top of his profession and Leslie retired at the top of his. Each is hiding just how badly they suffer from all the punishment they put their bodies through, and the strain of keeping it quiet and just keeping going. R.L. wrote with such authority and pulled no punches in describing the extreme mental and physical discipline required, the injuries, and the lasting effects of all that physical punishment year after year. I felt every bit of their pain.
A long drawn out courtship of sorts through phone calls and texts that take place off page over the fifteen years preceding the start of this book, their story is a sweet one. Both men are likeable characters, finally physically in the same place, and maybe mentally too. I loved them together but I also loved them separately; Joe with his best friend and his cheer squad, Leslie with his twin brothers (twenty-six, going on twelve) and his mum.
This is a slow burn, trying to navigate their feelings while the realities of their new jobs limit the time they have free to spend with each other, after fifteen years of virtual edging. It was all beautifully done, with an HEA that made me smile. I would love to see more books in this world. Perhaps the twins?
My first book by R.L. Merrill and I loved it. The author tells us in the Foreword of her own experiences with chronic pain, and all that agony and worry and secrecy and determination and sheer exhaustion that comes from pushing your body beyond its limits and then going just a bit further is laid out bare on the page.
Joe is at the top of his profession and Leslie retired at the top of his. Each is hiding just how badly they suffer from all the punishment they put their bodies through, and the strain of keeping it quiet and just keeping going. R.L. wrote with such authority and pulled no punches in describing the extreme mental and physical discipline required, the injuries, and the lasting effects of all that physical punishment year after year. I felt every bit of their pain.
A long drawn out courtship of sorts through phone calls and texts that take place off page over the fifteen years preceding the start of this book, their story is a sweet one. Both men are likeable characters, finally physically in the same place, and maybe mentally too. I loved them together but I also loved them separately; Joe with his best friend and his cheer squad, Leslie with his twin brothers (twenty-six, going on twelve) and his mum.
This is a slow burn, trying to navigate their feelings while the realities of their new jobs limit the time they have free to spend with each other, after fifteen years of virtual edging. It was all beautifully done, with an HEA that made me smile. I would love to see more books in this world. Perhaps the twins?
May 18, 2023
Standalone. Second chance/friends to lovers. Mature characters. Slow burn. Dual POV. Former NFL quarterback Leslie has been waiting 15 years for a chance with Joe, their careers have always pulled them in different directions. Now that Joe has been convinced to return to their alma mater to coach cheer and dance, Leslie hopes that Joe will finally decide to settle down with him. But even though Joe has made a big name for himself dancing and doing choreography, Joe has more goals for himself, if only his aging body will cooperate, and being in the middle of Iowa won’t help him get more jobs. Leslie was nicknamed the “Nicest Guy in the NFL”, and he really is as he slowly woos and pines for Joe, helps his family and mentors young football players. Both men are realistically fearful of their aging bodies and have health issues, and while Leslie is desperate for this last chance to be with Joe, Joe is still stubbornly trying to have everything without giving up anything. A really compelling and emotional story, I enjoyed every moment Leslie and Joe spent together, and the friendship and caring made me tear up at times with emotion. A lovely book. 4.5 rounded up
May 29, 2023
This was such a sweet and complex sports romance about two men finding love and purpose after achieving great success when they were younger. Leslie and Joe had met several years in the past but have since changed directions in their careers and find themselves both back at their alma mater. I loved getting to see these two men finding love with each other and accepting that while their lives had changed, the connection they shared all those years ago did not. Another aspect of this book that I really enjoyed was how seriously safety and concussion protocols were taken and how the issue of CTE was openly discussed. There are so many long-lasting issues that professional athletes face after careers of severe physical trauma to their bodies. It was nice to see a romance still have a HEA but also present a more realistic look at what life can be like for some athletes. I loved the ending of this story but hope we will see more of Leslie and Joe in future books. There are several side characters that I would love to see get their own HEA!
June 10, 2023
This was a beautiful written book of lost and found love, of sacrifices for family, of determinedly going after your dreams, and of second chances. But things happen for a reason, and instead of feeling regret for losing a life together, they celebrate the opportunity of making new memories as they start a future together. This was a slow-burn romance and I enjoyed reading it. The characters were well-developed, likable, and relatable. Les is a sweetheart and such a beautiful soul, and even though he had a successful career, he is still a down-to-earth, average guy. Joe is proud and determined to see all his dreams come to fruition, even if they are not the ones he originally thought they would be. I enjoyed the dynamics between the MC’s and watching their romance blossom over time. It was not as steamy as I prefer my MM romance, but it was still a really good book to read.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 3, 2023
Cute read, I enjoyed this take on friends to lovers. Joe and Les are very endearing characters, Les especially in how eager he is to explore a relationship with Joe after pining over his college friend for the last fifteen years. This is a new author for me, and I really liked the writing style. The dialogue, humor, and well developed characters - all stand out. It’s pretty low on the spice but I appreciated the time dedicated to developing the relationship. I also appreciated the realistic challenges they both struggled with, the toll professional sports takes on their bodies, the sacrifices it takes, and the missed opportunities. All of which add some realism and depth to the story, Joe and Les were very easy to root for.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 4, 2023
Absolutely delightful. Leslie and Joe met one night and spent the entire magical night, talking. For the next 15 years, their friendship brewed and stewed. Their careers took them in opposite directions the entire time. Leslie, has suffered serious injuries and fears his TBI will affect his mind going forward. He wants to make memories while he can. They've had successful careers, but they still carry baggages filled with insecurities. They are recruited to revive the athletic program at their alma mater. Good story. Nice way to spend retirement. Are their dreams fulfilled? Do they revive the program? Will they finally fulfill their dreams and become a couple? Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2024
I don't know where the Ted Lasso reference comes in unless it was just because of sport. I wouldn't call it as witty or snarky as the show, so that didn't connect with me. As for the story itself, though, it was enjoyable. Leslie and Joe have been friends for 15 years. They have had feelings for each other but weren't ready for settling down until now. Les is an ex-football player with medical issues, and Joe is a dancer who is aging and in pain. I liked the concept of them building the program at the college, and I liked them working together. I did get annoyed sometimes at their lack of communication despite emphasizing they were working on communication. Overall, though, I liked the story and the characters.
August 6, 2025
A very good story.
It's a bit challenging to write a review of this story because it involves the injuries of football players in general, not only for them but for dancers as well. Leslie is a retired football player who had his share of head injuries. His father died at an early age because of CTE. Leslie fears that he has the same thing. Joe has known Leslie for fifteen years. Joe is the younger of the two. They both secretly loved each other, but danced around getting together. But when their alma mater needs help to boost their enrollment and bring pride back to their town, Leslie asks Joe to return to teach and to head up the cheerleading team. Joe is a star in his own right.
It's a bit challenging to write a review of this story because it involves the injuries of football players in general, not only for them but for dancers as well. Leslie is a retired football player who had his share of head injuries. His father died at an early age because of CTE. Leslie fears that he has the same thing. Joe has known Leslie for fifteen years. Joe is the younger of the two. They both secretly loved each other, but danced around getting together. But when their alma mater needs help to boost their enrollment and bring pride back to their town, Leslie asks Joe to return to teach and to head up the cheerleading team. Joe is a star in his own right.
June 12, 2023
This story is really about how you get a chance at love and you have to choose between two really good choices. Sometimes you want to choose love but the chance to do something you have been training for your whole life to do will call to you as well. Choosing love isn't losing, necessarily, but it might feel like it in the moment. Leslie and Joe have been living their lives with that what if in the background. Now, they find themselves in the same place at the same time and what if becomes even more of a reality. There are a lot of factors to be considered and while Leslie is ready for forever to start now, Joe isn't so certain. Can they get past their fear to get forever together?
June 8, 2023
Everything's Better With You by R.L. Merrill is a second chance romance for Leslie and Joe. They first met when Leslie was an NFL sensation and Joe was a college cheerleader at Leslie's alma mater. Sparks flew immediately but they were in drastically different places in life. They kept in touch, meeting again 15 years later as coaches back at their old school. It is a beautifully written story with slow burning steam, light-hearted humor, and minimal angst.
Romance - ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Steam - 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Humor - 🤣🤣🤣
Angst - 😭
Writing - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Romance - ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Steam - 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Humor - 🤣🤣🤣
Angst - 😭
Writing - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 25, 2023
This is a story that takes its time. Joe and Leslie have a chance meeting at the local college bar. Joe is just graduating and starting a dance career and Leslie is transitioning from star quarterback to football presenter. Their attraction is strong but they realize the timing is wrong. For the next fifteen years they dance around each other waiting for the right time. After Joe accepts a position coaching at their alma mater Leslie finally makes his move. I love that there is no rush and both men take the time to work through their issues and find a solution that leaves them both fufilled.
June 2, 2023
This book of the long awaited love of Les and Joe was such a well written story. The pain felt by both main characters and the care they each take of the other was so sweet. At times I worried over Joe's doubts but that is a testament to how well the writing is. The secondary characters are very well written also. There are some very entertaining portions attributed to Les's brothers. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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