The Game Can't Love You Back by Karole Cozzo

Title: The Game Can't Love You Back
Author: Karole Cozzo
Genre: Romance, Teen/YA
Rating: 5 out of 5




Bitter sports rivalries and swoon-worthy romance intertwine, in Karole Cozzo’s classic enemies to lovers story where two former nemeses blur the lines between love and hate.

Eve is used to being the odd woman out. As the only girl on her school's baseball team, she knows exactly how to put sweaty, macho baseball players in their place, and she's learned to focus on one thing and one thing only—being the best pitcher she can be.

But when a freak accident forces her school to be absorbed by the neighboring town, Eve has to contend with a new group of guys who aren't used to having a woman on their team. And the new team's star pitcher, Jamie, has no interest in being ousted from his throne. He can't afford to give up his starting slot to a new pitcher—especially to a girl.

As the competition between Jamie and Eve starts to heat up, so does their attraction to each other. Can they keep their heads in the game, or will they end up getting played?

Chosen by readers like you for Macmillan’s young adult imprint Swoon Reads, The Game Can’t Love You Back follows Eve as she is forced to join a new baseball team and contend with the insufferable (and cute) rival pitcher.

The Game Can't Love You Back is a perfect book that combines sports, romance, and competition. I love the characters in this book. Especially the two main ones, Eve and Jamie. 
Starting with Eve. I love how she doesn't play baseball instead of softball to prove that girls are just as good as boys or that she has what it takes. She plays because her brothers played and that's what she grew up with. Of course she has to prove herself to the boys on the team but so does every single new player that joins. Maybe her a little more then the others but she doesn't complain and she never backs down from a challenge. She's strong and fierce and not afraid to play a little dirty. Despite being fierce, on and off the field, she's not afraid to admit she needs help.

Now Jamie is your stereotypical jock, arrogant and narcissistic. Except that's only a front. There's so much more to him then what meets the eye. He's actually quite caring, sensitive, and kind. He does whatever it takes to protect those he cares about. Even if it means getting in a bit of trouble.
When you put them together you get some hilarious banter. Their back and forth has to be my favorite part of the book. Their both witty and clever and can crack a joke is even the most uncomfortable of situations.
The title fits the book perfectly. It's a major concept throughout the book although it's not necessarily said or mentioned until you get toward the end.

This is such an amazing and heartwarming book. It's easily one of my favorites.