I read the ‘All For The Game’ series at the end of 2024, and instantly became captivated by the world within. Messy, full of gaping plot holes, and in some parts entirely nonsensical, and yet you cannot look away. Or stop thinking about it. Or stop loving the characters and their love for each other. The Sunshine Court – the first book in a second trilogy – is more polished and thought-out, but loses none of the charm and dramatics that make ‘All For The Game’ what it is.
The book centres on Jean Moreau, an interesting but mostly background character from the original trilogy, as he navigates his new and unwanted freedom after being harshly ejected from the Edgar Allen Ravens. He joins the USC Trojans, his former competition, which is where Jean learns how unhealthy the Ravens were, and how badly he has been affected by his time there.
I really enjoyed TSC! Jean is an incredibly compelling main character, and you root for him immediately. His narrative is entertaining to read, and the difference between his descriptions and previous protagonist Neil Josten’s gives more balanced insight into the actual events of the story. It’s nice to hear more about much loved character’s from the original trilogy, even through Jean’s scathing lens. His relationship with his teammates, especially Jeremy, Laila, and Cat, is a high-point of the story. Their patience and warmth towards Jean is refreshing and lovely to read, and their presence adds a lot to the story. Personally, I will never be able to replace the PSU Foxes as my favourite supporting cast in the saga, but the few members of the Trojans we get to know are worthy successors.
If you have already read AFTG, you know what to expect when going in. The writing is far from perfect, and the plot is fantastical. It’s silly! That doesn’t mean it isn’t worth a read. The story is genuinely interesting, heartwarming, and will have you laughing in humour, horror, and absolute disbelief. They certainly are not books you forget quickly. The Sunshine Court fits right in with its predecessors.
There are many trigger warnings to heed for the whole series. Specific to The Sunshine Court, watch out for rape, physical abuse, violence.