Taking the Field: A YA Marching Arts Novel (March Forward)

New school. New rivals. One chance to prove herself.

Jessica Welling has spent her life playing by the rules—until one reckless decision shatters everything. Forced to leave her old life behind, Jessica transfers across the state to Arcana High, home to one of the best marching bands in the state. Determined to rebuild her future, she’s ready to prove herself to the only team that matters—if they’ll let her.

Christian Gutierrez has spent years building his legacy as Arcana’s drum major. With his title to defend and his family falling apart, he doesn’t have time for distractions—especially not Jessica Welling, the fiery new girl with secrets she’s determined to keep. From the moment she steps onto his field, their rivalry ignites—and so does something neither of them expected.

As competition season heats up, Jessica and Christian are forced to confront their assumptions about each other—and themselves. But when Jessica’s past comes back to haunt her, the choices she’s made threaten to unravel everything Arcana has worked for. Their connection deepens despite the odds, but one devastating betrayal could turn their story from triumphant to tragic.

Taking the Field is an electrifying tale of love, rivalry, and redemption set against the high-stakes world of competitive marching band . This book delivers heart-pounding twists, witty banter, and unforgettable characters in a compelling rivals-to-lovers romance.

Will Jessica and Christian rise to the challenge—or will the pressure of the season tear them apart?