Every Friday night, our family tradition is simple: pizza, a movie, and absolutely no chores allowed—except, somehow, I always end up refereeing a heated debate about whether pineapple belongs on pizza. Between Rebecca's latest art project spread across the table and Marcus arguing that his mismatched socks are a trend, our living room is pure chaos. But this week, I snuck off with Fangirl Down while everyone was distracted. The book's laugh-out-loud banter and surprising heart kept me turning pages late into the night—pineapple debates forgotten, for once.
Plot Summary
Fangirl Down: A Novel (Big Shots Book 1) by Tessa Bailey follows Josephine Doyle, an endlessly cheerful golf instructor and pro shop owner with a deep devotion to grumpy pro golfer Wells Whitaker. After her family's pro shop is devastated by a hurricane and Wells is struggling to revive his career, he proposes Josephine be his caddy—offering her a shot to rebuild and him a chance at a comeback. The story kicks off with humor and sparks as Josephine and Wells hit the PGA circuit together, challenging each other on and off the course. Their growing romance collides with public scrutiny, personal struggles, and the tangled feelings of mixing love and work. As opposites attract, both must learn to trust, support, and accept themselves and each other. This is book one in the steamy, sports romance Big Shots series.
Why I Love This Book
I love how real Josephine and Wells feel—funny, flawed, and fiercely loyal. Josephine's sunny optimism and resilience made me cheer for her at every page, while Wells's grumpy, protective side was surprisingly endearing. Their relationship sparkles with witty dialogue, emotional tension, and genuine care for one another. The pacing is brisk, with plenty of swoon-worthy moments balanced by humor and vulnerability. I especially appreciated how the story delves into themes of self-worth, chronic illness, and second chances—these layers added heart and emotional depth that lingered long after I finished reading.
Who Will Like This Book
If you enjoy sports romance, grumpy x sunshine pairings, opposites-attract, caretaking heroes, and steamy contemporary novels, you'll love this story. It's especially great for fans of strong heroines, witty banter, and open-door romance. First-person emotional tension and growth make it stand out. There's a lot of steam, but also plenty of laughter and tenderness.
⚠️ Trigger warning: Explicit sexual content, chronic illness (type 1 diabetes), workplace dynamics, grief, public scrutiny, and emotionally charged situations.
Tagged As
contemporary romance, sports romance, grumpy x sunshine, steamy romance, opposites-attract, caretaking, chronic illness, golf, workplace romance, Big Shots series, explicit open door, witty banter, loyal heroine, emotionally complex, strong character growth, HEA, indie romance
Steam Level
This romance is unapologetically explicit and intensely steamy—expect open-door scenes, detailed intimacy, and plenty of sexual tension driving the emotional journey. The spice amplifies both character growth and plot stakes.
