The Cheat Sheet

Nathan believes that he cannot allow himself to feel anxious or overwhelmed, and he hides his mental health challenges both from others and from himself. What does this suggest about views of masculinity and mental health within the NFL and in the wider culture?

How does the dual-perspective structure of the narrative function in terms of plot, character development, and romantic evolution? How does each protagonist reveal aspects of the other that are not accessible from that character’s perspective?

How does Nathan’s career as an NFL athlete inform his character? What cultural myths attach to him as an NFL quarterback, and how do these align with his real personality?

Injury and recovery play important roles for Bree (physical) and Nathan (mental). Explore how both of them experience their pain and how they both make efforts to recover.

Bree’s accident plays a large role in her interiority and perception of the world and her future. Trace how her thought process changes throughout the course of the novel as hope grows within her, using specific textual evidence.

The other LA Sharks offer Nathan earnest, friendly, and kind support in his struggles with his feelings for Bree. How do they function as a support network for Nathan, and how does he incorporate their advice into his life?

Analyze how Adam’s authorial tone shifts between Bree’s and Nathan’s chapters. Cite specific diction, tone, and syntax changes to show how Adams evokes the interior voices of these two very different characters.

How does The Cheat Sheet fit into the sports romance genre more broadly? How is it in conversation with the tropes and expectations of the genre?