Loser of the Year by Carrie Byrd

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The details…

  • Title: Loser of the Year
  • Author: Carrie Byrd
  • Publisher: Ylva Publishing 
  • Publication date: July 21, 2024
  • Available formats: ebook, paperback 
  • File size: 2422 KB
  • Print length: 322 pages
  • Genre: contemporary romance  
  • Themes: love, ambition, self-worth, self-discovery, self acceptance, trust, women loving women, failure, starting over, returning to childhood home, sacrifice, family, education, private school, Catholicism, Jewish culture, small towns, transformative power of love

The blurb from the publisher…

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?

My thoughts…

Carrie Byrd has written a real winner! The richness of her enemies-to-lovers debut romance extends beyond the basic plot and character dynamics, inviting readers into a deeper exploration of themes and emotional journeys. Loser of the Year draws its strength from its well-scripted, emotionally rich narrative and it’s quite a ride, to say the least! The journey of Mattie and Jillian goes beyond mere attraction; it becomes a profound exploration of self-discovery, connection, and the courage to embrace love in all its forms. This story not only entertains but also resonates deeply, reminding readers of the life changing power of relationships and the importance of daring to take risks—both in love and in life.

Mattie Belman and Jillian Reed are exceptionally well-crafted characters. They are designed with textured layers that make them compelling and relatable. Mattie’s transition from a hopeful actress to a disheartened teacher sets the stage for her character arc. Readers witness her grappling with self-doubt and the pressure to reclaim her passion for the arts. Her journey toward self-acceptance—and eventual love—is gradual and nuanced, filled with moments of vulnerability that allow readers to connect with her on a personal level.

Jillian, on the other hand, embodies the archetype of a strong, independent woman who has built a façade of confidence to protect herself from the vulnerabilities of life and love. Her initial antagonism toward Mattie stems from a mixture of professional pride and personal insecurity. As the story unfolds, Jillian’s character is neatly fleshed out, revealing struggles and fears that make her relatable, despite her outward toughness. The duality in their personalities creates a rich tapestry for conflict and eventual connection.

The relationship between Mattie and Jillian is steeped in the classic trope of opposites attracting, yet it is enriched by their fierce rivalry. Jillian’s initial arrogance and dismissive attitude towards the theater arts serve as a catalyst for conflict. This animosity fuels the narrative, allowing readers to witness the evolution of their connection as they navigate their differences. The tension between them is not merely antagonistic; it’s charged with an underlying chemistry that simmers beneath the surface. As Mattie begins to uncover the complexities of Jillian’s character—her passion, dedication, and vulnerabilities—readers are drawn further into the intricacies of their relationship. The gradual peeling away of Jillian’s tough exterior reveals a deeper emotional landscape that resonates with anyone who has ever struggled to connect with someone who seems different at first glance.

Resilience and bravery are recurring themes in this narrative, and it works well to support the central motif of the romance—daring to take risks. Both Mattie and Jillian are at a crossroads in their lives, confronting their fears and uncertainties. Mattie’s journey back to the stage reflects her desire to reclaim her identity and self-worth, while Jillian’s initial resistance to Mattie’s musical symbolizes a fear of vulnerability. The narrative encapsulates the idea that love often requires stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing the unknown, even if it leads to potential heartbreak. This inherent risk appeals to readers who crave stories that not only entertain but also challenge them to invest a little of themselves in the storytelling.

The emotional stakes in this story are palpable and reflect the complexities of human relationships. The tension between Mattie and Jillian is not merely a vehicle for romance; it heightens the exploration of self-acceptance and self-respect within the context of a wlw romance. The book does not shy away from the complexities of love and self-worth, offering a nuanced portrayal of two women navigating their feelings in a world that may not always be accepting. As their relationship develops, readers are treated to a range of emotions, from frustration and anger to tenderness and longing. The moments of realization and vulnerability—when both women let their guards down—are particularly impactful, as they reflect the universal journey of opening oneself up to love despite past hurts. The journey of self-discovery and the courage to embrace one’s true self—despite what others think—resonate with readers, making the story relevant and impactful.

Final remarks…

The appeal of this enemies-to-lovers, opposites-attract sapphic romance lies in its rich character development, thematic depth and emotional resonance. Mattie and Jillian’s journey from rivalry to romance perfectly captures the beauty of love, even when it exposes vulnerabilities so crushing, one nearly feels paralyzed by it. As these two women navigate their differences and discover the scorching passion that hisses anytime they are near, readers are reminded that sometimes, the most compelling stories are those that challenge us to take a big leap of faith, even if the landing is a little jarring. Loser of the Year is no loser; it is an exceptional debut and exceedingly worthy of praise. It promises not only to entertain but to charm, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good romance. In fact, every book Carrie Byrd writes from here on out needs to be on one’s must-read list! This book firmly puts her on the map, proving she is one to watch!

Strengths…

  • Well-written 
  • Engaging 
  • Relatable, likable characters 
  • Captivating story world 
  • Rich secondary characters 
  • A must-read

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A bit about the author…

Carrie Byrd is a California native and college professor who lives just outside Philadelphia. She loves hiking and kayaking, burritos, video games, Old Hollywood, Eagles football and Phillies baseball, teaching poetry, talking a mile a minute, and traveling around the world with her wife. 

An extrovert who thrives on a stage, Carrie once won first place by crowd vote for her improvised lip sync of “Jessie’s Girl” at a packed drag brunch. She considers it one of her life’s greatest accomplishments.

Carrie’s favorite word is thistle. It feels good to say out loud. 

To learn more about her, check out her website, Instagram, Threads, Twitter and Facebook. A list of her published works can be found at Ylva Publishing or her Amazon Author Page.

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