I just wanted to take a moment to say how grateful I am for all the love and support you’ve shown me since my first story, Blaze of Glory, hit the websites. The positive feedback I’ve gotten on Inkitt and on other sites like AO3 and Royal Road, it means the world to me. I’m hoping the story can attract the same buzz on Inkitt and Wattpad, even though algorithms can be a real “Una spina nel fianco.” Still, that hasn’t stopped me, and I’m forging ahead with the writing.
After Chapter 9 “Newport Blaze vs. Malibu FC: A Debut in Black and Gold!” dropped, a few readers reached out with questions about some inaccuracies. I’d like to clear up two of the most common points and explain why I chose the path I did.
1.) Soccer Season doesn't start at the end of Summer in North America.
You're absolutely right on this one! In the States, just like with many other sports, soccer leagues typically kick off around late February and finish up in early winter. This is mainly to dodge those super cold, unplayable winter temperatures in northern cities.
However, I chose to start the season in August for a couple of specific reasons. First and foremost, my main character, Hitesh, was starting his senior year of high school in late August. I really didn't want him to spend most of his senior year in Wilmington only to suddenly move to Newport Beach mid-year. That would give him just a couple of months to adjust at Newport Harbor High, which wouldn't be nearly enough time for him to make new friends or create those solid memories needed for the character development I have planned.
Secondly, August and early September are traditionally when most of the big leagues around the world kick off, so I wanted my story's timeline to feel consistent with that global rhythm.
2.) There is no Promotion and Relegation in soccer leagues across the United States.
Unfortunately it’s true that the United States (and at present roughly 23 men’s and women’s first and lower divisions from 13 different countries) doesn’t follow the promotion/relegation model, which many of us feel can really dampen the competitive spirit. Promotion and Relegation is so crucial in soccer because it creates a system based on merit, with huge stakes and financial rewards for teams that move up or avoid dropping down. It just makes every single match feel incredibly meaningful and exciting!
I decided to weave a promotion and relegation arc into the story for the same reason: to give each win real weight for Hitesh and his teammates, driving them toward that coveted promotion and letting them feel that their hard‑won success truly matters at season’s end.
Thanks again for reading and for caring enough to share your thoughts. It really helps me grow as a writer! Stay tuned for more!
Grazie! Thank You!
Mia Vita!
