Everything Happens for a Reason: My Life in Rugby

In a sport where autobiographies often feel sanitised and predictable, Danny Care's "Everything Happens for a Reason" stands out as a refreshingly honest chronicle of a career that's been anything but straightforward. The England rugby star's memoir arrives at the perfect moment, following his historic 100th cap for England in March 2024 and subsequent retirement from international rugby, giving readers an intimate look at one of the sport's most charismatic figures.
Care's narrative style mirrors his playing philosophy – quick-witted, unpredictable, and unafraid to take risks. The book's strength lies in its candid exploration of the setbacks that shaped his journey, from his abandoned football dreams to the "ill-judged sledging outing" that might have cost him a Lions tour spot. What makes this memoir particularly compelling is Care's willingness to embrace vulnerability, sharing not just the trophy-lifting moments but also the headlines he'd rather forget.
The Guardian highlights one of the book's most revealing segments, where Care describes his experience under Eddie Jones as "like living in a dictatorship".  Sports memoirs rarely display such raw honesty, especially from active players, and Care's willingness to reveal the inner workings of rugby's professional environment provides readers with unparalleled insight.
The narrative takes an especially poignant turn when discussing his temporary exile from the England squad under Eddie Jones – a period that could have broken lesser players but instead became a catalyst for one of sport's most remarkable comeback stories. Care's resilience culminated in his reaching the coveted 100-cap milestone against Ireland at Twickenham, becoming only the sixth English player to achieve this feat.
What sets this autobiography apart is its perfect balance of professional insight and personal revelation. Care's decision to miss an England tour – which led to meeting his wife on a party island – humanises him beyond the rugby field. These personal anecdotes are woven seamlessly into the larger narrative of his rugby journey, creating a rich tapestry that will appeal to both die-hard rugby fans and casual readers alike.
The book particularly shines when Care discusses his time with Harlequins, where he became the club's most capped player. His accounts of the changing room culture, the evolution of the professional game, and the characters he's encountered along the way provide fascinating insights into rugby's transformation over the past two decades.
Early reader reviews praise the book for being "honest, frank, direct, humorous and incredibly informative," and it's easy to see why. Care's voice comes through authentically on every page, maintaining the same quick wit and charm that made him a favourite among fans and teammates alike.
While many sports autobiographies feel like they're written by committee, Care's personality radiates throughout this memoir. His storytelling possesses the same energy and spontaneity that defined his play, engaging readers with a perfect blend of humour, honesty, and heart. 
"Everything Happens for a Reason" is more than just another sports memoir; it's a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of maintaining perspective through both triumph and adversity. For rugby fans, it offers invaluable insights into the sport's modern era. For all others, it presents a captivating narrative about discovering your own path, particularly in the face of unexpected setbacks.
Ultimately, Care's autobiography demonstrates that the most significant journeys often deviate from a linear path. It's a fitting capstone to an international career that, like the book itself, was defined not by its perfection but by its authenticity. 
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 Delivered to You 2nd Week, May 2025 
Some publishers release new titles early, so our ETA above could change.
Publisher: Visit Ebury Spotlight
Published: May 8, 2025
Price: £10.99
Paperback: 320 pages
ISBN-10: 1529946166
ISBN-13: 978-1529946161
Dimensions: 129 x 198 (mm)