Waiting for Friday Night by Synithia Williams

Welcome Back, Booklovers! We're back in Peachtree Cove in the latest book by Synithia Williams Waiting for Friday Night. I received a finished copy from Synithia Williams. 

Halle Parker just wants to support her daughter Shania's dreams of being wide receiver on the football team, however things become complicated when Halle discovers her daughter's biological father is the much lauded new football coach. Years ago ex NFL player Quinton was desperate to save his family and had to make a decision for money. Now he and Halle have to figure out how to parent together and the feelings they have for each other. 

Halle is the cousin of Imani from the previous book and Imani does pop in here and there to support her cuz. She's a middle school principal and single mother who is used to be in charge. It was interesting to see her learn to be able to embrace having help because when you're an independent woman you get so used to doing things your way. Halle has been functioning pretty much on her own since losing her parents at a young age.

I also enjoyed Quinton's characterization and his family's presence. The football presence really added to the small town environment since we know Southern states are huge on high school football. You can feel how the sport ties the community together. Quinton's family very close knit but at the same time his parents and sister bring a lot of drama. There was an unexpected twist involving them that held my attention.

The premise of the story is rather outlandish so you just have to go with it that a 21 year old woman would've gone to a sperm doner to have a child. But I like that this was addressed head on with her friend's questioning it instead of quickly brushing past it. I also liked that Halle's daughter Shania is a teen capable of challenging her parents when necessary instead of a precious child who just wants to see them together.

Overall this was a good addition to the series and we get just enough breadcrumbs to prime us for the couple in the next book as well as the continuation of the rivalry for best small town.