How You Get the Girl is my new favorite contemporary queer romance! This was my first book from Anita Kelly but will definitely not be my last! Julie is a high school basketball coach. When her newest student Vanessa arrives, Julie is shocked to recognize Vanessa’s foster parent is Elle Cochrane- former basketball star. As Julie and Elle get closer, Julie decides to ask Elle if she would be her assistant coach. Elle agrees but neither of them are prepared for how close coaching will bring them. 

I absolutely loved this book and it is without a doubt one of my favorite reads of 2024. I really identified with Julie and how she struggled to find a label that fit her experience. I appreciated how Elle never pressures Julie to pick a label and instead fully embraces her. I love how positive the relationship is with Elle and Julie- even when they struggle, it is so well-written. Anita Kelly thoughtfully explores the complexities of foster care and how no situation is black and white. 

This book feels like a hug and a warm cup of hot chocolate with extra marshmallows. The writing feels so inclusive and heartwarming. It is seriously delightful and I would recommend it to anyone! Readers who enjoy sapphic sports romance, thoughtful identity exploration, and lovable characters must read How You Get the Girl. 

Thank you to Anita Kelly, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.