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Beauty and the Cleats #1
The Pitch Slap
Is it better to swing and miss or never get up to bat?
Growing up a baseball princess had taught me a few things:
One, the only truly scary thing about ball players was their superstitions.
Second, baseball always came first. It was their one true love.
And third, never take your eye off the ball, or you just might get pitch-slapped.
The past three years I’d been licking my wounds in Greece after I ran away from my wedding, and somehow forgot all three.
Too bad the baseball gods weren’t as forgetful.
Lured back home by my brother with the perfect job opportunity to photograph the YellowJackets baseball team, and I had no clue I’d step up to bat before even entering the stadium.
And the pitches just kept coming.
Strike one—a plane-night stand ghosting after being stranded in a storm.
Strike two—a grumpy ex who coincidentally was my brother’s best friend.
Foul Ball—a mistaken text with two players saved me from striking out completely, especially when it turned into a sexy exploration.
But there was no doubt I had a full count and only one swing away from striking out.
My first mistake was taking my eye off the ball; the second was believing I’d ever come before baseball. But most grievous of all, learning that the scariest thing about ball players wasn’t their superstitions…
No, it was falling in love with them.
Join the players of the Blue Devils and the Yellowjackets as they play the game of love and baseball. This is an interconnected standalone series, meaning the books can be read in any order. These books will consist of why choose, menage, and MM. Please check the foreward of each book for list content.
The Cleat Retreat: Blake’s prequel (Best read before Pitch Slap)
The Pitch Slap: Blake’s story (Why choose)
No Balking Way: Bryce’s story (Menage)
Whiff it Real Good: Ledger’s story (MM)
Photo Credit: CADWALLADER PHOTOGRAPHY
Model Credit: Jordan
Growing up a baseball princess had taught me a few things:
One, the only truly scary thing about ball players was their superstitions.
Second, baseball always came first. It was their one true love.
And third, never take your eye off the ball, or you just might get pitch-slapped.
The past three years I’d been licking my wounds in Greece after I ran away from my wedding, and somehow forgot all three.
Too bad the baseball gods weren’t as forgetful.
Lured back home by my brother with the perfect job opportunity to photograph the YellowJackets baseball team, and I had no clue I’d step up to bat before even entering the stadium.
And the pitches just kept coming.
Strike one—a plane-night stand ghosting after being stranded in a storm.
Strike two—a grumpy ex who coincidentally was my brother’s best friend.
Foul Ball—a mistaken text with two players saved me from striking out completely, especially when it turned into a sexy exploration.
But there was no doubt I had a full count and only one swing away from striking out.
My first mistake was taking my eye off the ball; the second was believing I’d ever come before baseball. But most grievous of all, learning that the scariest thing about ball players wasn’t their superstitions…
No, it was falling in love with them.
Join the players of the Blue Devils and the Yellowjackets as they play the game of love and baseball. This is an interconnected standalone series, meaning the books can be read in any order. These books will consist of why choose, menage, and MM. Please check the foreward of each book for list content.
The Cleat Retreat: Blake’s prequel (Best read before Pitch Slap)
The Pitch Slap: Blake’s story (Why choose)
No Balking Way: Bryce’s story (Menage)
Whiff it Real Good: Ledger’s story (MM)
Photo Credit: CADWALLADER PHOTOGRAPHY
Model Credit: Jordan
772 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 31, 2023
104 people are currently reading
407 people want to read
About the author
Kris Butler
48 books400 followersKris Butler writes under a pen name to have some separation from her everyday life. Writing has become her second love, providing a safe place to normalize mental health through her characters. Kris enjoys writing emotional books with flawed characters, sassy heroines, and all the book boyfriends she loves to drool over. You can find her at home most nights reading with her husband and furbaby, trying to maintain her nerdy sock collection, or playing tabletop games with her friends. Kris loves to talk with readers about her books, even if it’s just them yelling at her for that cliffhanger. If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review. You can find her in her reader group or on social media.
Follow Kris's journey as an author on Instagram (@authorkrisbutler) and Facebook, and join her reader group (Kris Butler's Misfit Penguins) for exclusive content.
If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review.
Follow Kris's journey as an author on Instagram (@authorkrisbutler) and Facebook, and join her reader group (Kris Butler's Misfit Penguins) for exclusive content.
If you enjoyed her book, please consider leaving a review.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 16, 2024
So I just want to start off by saying I am not on the ARC team or in any way related to this book. I just came across it because it was posted in another author’s group. I’m also quite picky when it comes to plot and characters. So I do NOT hand out 5 star reviews often. While there were times that I wanted to give some of the characters a slap upside the head, the majority of the time this story had me smiling and laughing. I don’t find that often and sure did need it. The $€x¥ times were hot as well. Not that I’m against it, but I don’t often get into the MM scenes unless they involve the FMC. But I did in this book! I really enjoyed the characters, especially GT and while the FMC did get in her head at times, I didn’t feel like it came across as whiny or weak willed. I do suggest that you read the prequel first.
I don’t know where the 2 star rating is coming from. That’s just BS. And seriously, why do people think it’s ok to put anything under a 3 as a rating and not say WHY. Sure, there’s stuff included in this book that isn’t for everyone, but it’s also MENTIONED at the beginning of the book. So shame on the person with that rating. Know ahead of time what you’re getting into and just choose not to read it, because the rest of us WANT that.
I don’t know where the 2 star rating is coming from. That’s just BS. And seriously, why do people think it’s ok to put anything under a 3 as a rating and not say WHY. Sure, there’s stuff included in this book that isn’t for everyone, but it’s also MENTIONED at the beginning of the book. So shame on the person with that rating. Know ahead of time what you’re getting into and just choose not to read it, because the rest of us WANT that.
November 22, 2024
The Pitch Slap was amazing!
The Pitch Slap, book 1 of the series Beuaty & The Cleats, by Kris Butler @authorkrisbutler. Kris is an absolute favorite author of mine.
This was a THICK book about Blake, Luke, Hawk, Tucker & Graham that was amazing! Tropes: Contemporary, Why Choose, Single Dad, Baseball, Bi-Awakening, Forced Proximity, One-Night Stand, Mistaken Identify via Text, Hate sex, 2nd Chance, Golden Retriever MMC, Grumpy/Sunshine, & so much more! Amazing book!
The Pitch Slap, book 1 of the series Beuaty & The Cleats, by Kris Butler @authorkrisbutler. Kris is an absolute favorite author of mine.
This was a THICK book about Blake, Luke, Hawk, Tucker & Graham that was amazing! Tropes: Contemporary, Why Choose, Single Dad, Baseball, Bi-Awakening, Forced Proximity, One-Night Stand, Mistaken Identify via Text, Hate sex, 2nd Chance, Golden Retriever MMC, Grumpy/Sunshine, & so much more! Amazing book!
January 5, 2024
*Why Choose
*Contemporary
*Multi-PoV
*baseball setting
*sunshine FMC
*onebed
*brothers best friend
*bi-awakening
*fast burn 🔥
*building harem (4)
*small MM
*standalone
Chunky, cheeky, cleatbased why choose 😍
A great follow up to the prequel and standalone in this interconnected world 😁 it follows Bee as she comes back from Greece to start a new job for her fathers baseball team as their photographer! It leads to a LOT of mishaps but also a great found family who have her back…excluding the ones who are out to cause trouble 😡😡 Bee has a realistic storyline with real life troubles that you’re likely to encounter making it relatable on every level. Thankfully she has a bestfriend and protector in her big brother (can’t wait for his book) and an amazing BFF in Emory to support her through the trials and tribulations, alongside her men - although sometimes they’re the trouble 😅
The characters are great … I need me a Daddy Hawke 😍😍 G&T are a cracking team, especially with their own awakenings, but their also totally individual with unique personalities, and then there’s Luke…talk about not knowing whether you’re coming or going 😳 there’s some great smutty scenes…we have hate, make up, group, semi public and kinky! She has different relationships with each of them but it’s great to see them grow as a unit 🥰
Also plenty of sport and baseball references throughout which is good to see 😄
Definitely recommend this one!
*Contemporary
*Multi-PoV
*baseball setting
*sunshine FMC
*onebed
*brothers best friend
*bi-awakening
*fast burn 🔥
*building harem (4)
*small MM
*standalone
Chunky, cheeky, cleatbased why choose 😍
A great follow up to the prequel and standalone in this interconnected world 😁 it follows Bee as she comes back from Greece to start a new job for her fathers baseball team as their photographer! It leads to a LOT of mishaps but also a great found family who have her back…excluding the ones who are out to cause trouble 😡😡 Bee has a realistic storyline with real life troubles that you’re likely to encounter making it relatable on every level. Thankfully she has a bestfriend and protector in her big brother (can’t wait for his book) and an amazing BFF in Emory to support her through the trials and tribulations, alongside her men - although sometimes they’re the trouble 😅
The characters are great … I need me a Daddy Hawke 😍😍 G&T are a cracking team, especially with their own awakenings, but their also totally individual with unique personalities, and then there’s Luke…talk about not knowing whether you’re coming or going 😳 there’s some great smutty scenes…we have hate, make up, group, semi public and kinky! She has different relationships with each of them but it’s great to see them grow as a unit 🥰
Also plenty of sport and baseball references throughout which is good to see 😄
Definitely recommend this one!
January 1, 2024
Love love loved it!
The Pitch Slap by Kris Butler is the first completed standalone in the Beauty and the Cleats series. You need to read the prequel, The Cleat Retreat, first. Otherwise you'll miss out on a lot of information. The Pitch Slap is a why choose baseball romance. This one follows the story of Blake, and her four men: Hawk, Graham, Tucker, and Luke. This story shows the importance of family, blood related and the family we choose to create.
The Pitch Slap by Kris Butler is the first completed standalone in the Beauty and the Cleats series. You need to read the prequel, The Cleat Retreat, first. Otherwise you'll miss out on a lot of information. The Pitch Slap is a why choose baseball romance. This one follows the story of Blake, and her four men: Hawk, Graham, Tucker, and Luke. This story shows the importance of family, blood related and the family we choose to create.
May 18, 2024
Quite disappointed in this one. The prequel novella promised lots of angst and this book just didn‘t deliver.
This is probably a me issue, but I‘m going to write about it because I‘m sure I‘m not the only one.
I like my RH with some friction. I like it if the characters are a little jealous at the start and I like the misunderstandings, perceived rejection, and other angsty situations a RH in formation can lead to. In this book, everyone always communicated their wants and needs so well that it missed out on all of this. The was no friction, and the instalove was driving me nuts — I find it hard to believe that after one plane ride together, a guy can be so crazy in love that he will accept sharing the girl, just so he doesn‘t lose her. Same goes after a few flirty messages. From the very beginning, all of the guys declared their love so vigorously that I started rolling my eyes. Don‘t get me started on the scene with her father’s scrutiny of the boyfriends (and his employees). If you like your significant other to declare their love in front of your father, I won‘t judge, but I cringed so hard at that scene.
In the end this just wasn‘t my cup of tea, and I feel a little misled by the prequel.
If you like your RH super-sweet, go for it. It has some funny moments, a cute four-year old and very likeable characters.
This is probably a me issue, but I‘m going to write about it because I‘m sure I‘m not the only one.
I like my RH with some friction. I like it if the characters are a little jealous at the start and I like the misunderstandings, perceived rejection, and other angsty situations a RH in formation can lead to. In this book, everyone always communicated their wants and needs so well that it missed out on all of this. The was no friction, and the instalove was driving me nuts — I find it hard to believe that after one plane ride together, a guy can be so crazy in love that he will accept sharing the girl, just so he doesn‘t lose her. Same goes after a few flirty messages. From the very beginning, all of the guys declared their love so vigorously that I started rolling my eyes. Don‘t get me started on the scene with her father’s scrutiny of the boyfriends (and his employees). If you like your significant other to declare their love in front of your father, I won‘t judge, but I cringed so hard at that scene.
In the end this just wasn‘t my cup of tea, and I feel a little misled by the prequel.
If you like your RH super-sweet, go for it. It has some funny moments, a cute four-year old and very likeable characters.
January 24, 2024
DNF cringing so hard right now.
“Ditto, big Bro. Love you more than cheddar cheese.”
“Pulling out the big guns! Well, I love you more than red gummy bears.”
I don't think I need to say anything else😂😂.
“Ditto, big Bro. Love you more than cheddar cheese.”
“Pulling out the big guns! Well, I love you more than red gummy bears.”
I don't think I need to say anything else😂😂.
March 15, 2024
Sooooooo long! OMG I had to skip so many pages.
700+ pages it was too long! The story was lagging and boring at times thanks to the banter and some of the spice i made it to the end but never again!!
Overall it was too long, boring and made me think it was written by a 15 year old
700+ pages it was too long! The story was lagging and boring at times thanks to the banter and some of the spice i made it to the end but never again!!
Overall it was too long, boring and made me think it was written by a 15 year old
January 7, 2024
Holy cow. I’m going to start by saying this…. I apologize if this becomes a really long review, but I literally have so much I want to say!! This book was absolutely fantastic. I am in love with this book and absolutely in awe of how Kris Butler handled the character development and story line of this book. The Pitch Slap was the perfect blend of romance, sports, drama, comedy, emotional rollercoaster, and best of all… so freaking spicy. I can’t get over how much I enjoyed reading this book! Though it was longer, it kept me engaged (when I didn’t have to adult 🙄) and I never got bored! How could you with these characters!?
I fell head over heels with Hawk in The Cleat Retreat (the prequel novella to this book if you haven’t read it, I would definitely check it out) but I am completely in love with Tucker, Graham, and Luke as well. They were the perfect addictions to Blake and Hawk. Hawk is a sexy, broody, alpha male who loves to be in control. Tucker is an adorable, super funny (also sexy) male with golden retriever energy who keeps you on your toes. Then there’s Luke, who goes through such a major character development I just can’t help but get emotional when I think of his changes and his struggles. He’s the hot golden Adonis who is just the perfect amount of cocky and sweet. Graham is the gorgeous levelheaded, passionate guy that helps everyone get together and ultimately stay together because he gets everyone to communicate. I just love him to pieces. And I obviously I can’t forget about our beautiful, bombshell FMC. Blake is sweet as pie but can be a firecracker when the right buttons are pushed. She’s funny, caring, and just so amazing. I felt like I was there with this group on their journey as one of their best friends and biggest supporters! #LoveBuzz (you’ll understand once you read the book)
Anyway, needless to say, this book was so fantastic and I have already recommended it to a few people at work. It’s so good and worth the time it took to read it. My compliments to the author 🤌🏼💋 for doing such a great job on this book and I cannot wait until Bryce’s story!
I fell head over heels with Hawk in The Cleat Retreat (the prequel novella to this book if you haven’t read it, I would definitely check it out) but I am completely in love with Tucker, Graham, and Luke as well. They were the perfect addictions to Blake and Hawk. Hawk is a sexy, broody, alpha male who loves to be in control. Tucker is an adorable, super funny (also sexy) male with golden retriever energy who keeps you on your toes. Then there’s Luke, who goes through such a major character development I just can’t help but get emotional when I think of his changes and his struggles. He’s the hot golden Adonis who is just the perfect amount of cocky and sweet. Graham is the gorgeous levelheaded, passionate guy that helps everyone get together and ultimately stay together because he gets everyone to communicate. I just love him to pieces. And I obviously I can’t forget about our beautiful, bombshell FMC. Blake is sweet as pie but can be a firecracker when the right buttons are pushed. She’s funny, caring, and just so amazing. I felt like I was there with this group on their journey as one of their best friends and biggest supporters! #LoveBuzz (you’ll understand once you read the book)
Anyway, needless to say, this book was so fantastic and I have already recommended it to a few people at work. It’s so good and worth the time it took to read it. My compliments to the author 🤌🏼💋 for doing such a great job on this book and I cannot wait until Bryce’s story!
January 5, 2024
I am usually not interested in anything baseball related but after reading The Cleat Retreat and The Pitch Slap totally changed my mind. I was totally invested in Blake & Hawk in the Cleat Retreat after that ending.
Blake comes back from her very extended vacation in Greece to take a job at her fathers baseball club. The flight back is a stressful one, filled with a hottie in first class, then getting puked on and relocated to first class with said hottie. The plane has to land due to bad weather and Blake ends up in a one night stand situation.
Blake ends up having to catch a ride to the stadium with Hawk at her brothers behest (awkward). Blake finds that not only is Hawk on of the coaches but airplane hottie who ghosted her is also on the team. I don't want to give away too much of the story... I can tell you that this was hilarious, heartbreaking, fast paced and steamy. It only took me 2 days to read this beast of a book with how it just sucks you in.
Blake comes back from her very extended vacation in Greece to take a job at her fathers baseball club. The flight back is a stressful one, filled with a hottie in first class, then getting puked on and relocated to first class with said hottie. The plane has to land due to bad weather and Blake ends up in a one night stand situation.
Blake ends up having to catch a ride to the stadium with Hawk at her brothers behest (awkward). Blake finds that not only is Hawk on of the coaches but airplane hottie who ghosted her is also on the team. I don't want to give away too much of the story... I can tell you that this was hilarious, heartbreaking, fast paced and steamy. It only took me 2 days to read this beast of a book with how it just sucks you in.
January 6, 2024
I knew I was going to love this book because I was hooked after reading the prequel, and I was not wrong! These characters were so funny and I loved the dynamics between everyone (especially during the spicy scenes!)
I was already in love with Hawk when I started this book but I was not prepared for how obsessed I was with GT. They are seriously so lovable and they really made the book for me. I also love the found families that this author is always excellent at creating. I enjoy that the group of guys are not already bonded as is the case in a lot of why choose romance. They really have to work to make their relationships work not only with Blake, but also each other.
Every MMC is this book is swoon worthy in their own way and Blake is so funny as our FMC. Any lover of sports romance and why choose romance will definitely enjoy this book. I’m so excited for the rest of the series.
I was already in love with Hawk when I started this book but I was not prepared for how obsessed I was with GT. They are seriously so lovable and they really made the book for me. I also love the found families that this author is always excellent at creating. I enjoy that the group of guys are not already bonded as is the case in a lot of why choose romance. They really have to work to make their relationships work not only with Blake, but also each other.
Every MMC is this book is swoon worthy in their own way and Blake is so funny as our FMC. Any lover of sports romance and why choose romance will definitely enjoy this book. I’m so excited for the rest of the series.
April 5, 2024
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Swoon 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦
LMAO 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Tears 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹
Banter 😉😉😉😉😉
Sports Romance / Why Choose / Forced Proximity / HEA
This is the book one of the Beauty and the Cleats Series. Blake has been in Greece for three years trying to heal and find herself. She starts therapy and takes up photography. Her brother Bryce calls her to say she’s needed for a photography job with the baseball club so she flies home. She meets a cocky guy that she ends up seated next to on the flight, there’s turbulence, an emergency landing and a forced night together. There is so much going on in this book that my review would be a novel in itself. Suffice it to say, I absolutely loved this book, all 772 pages and it never dragged. There was lots of humor, tears and so much love and acceptance. Even though it was a long book I hated to see it end … but, there is another novella coming to wrap up the HEA so I’m very excited about that. Oh … Graham & Tucker … win best comedy duo in a book.
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Swoon 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦
LMAO 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Tears 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹
Banter 😉😉😉😉😉
Sports Romance / Why Choose / Forced Proximity / HEA
This is the book one of the Beauty and the Cleats Series. Blake has been in Greece for three years trying to heal and find herself. She starts therapy and takes up photography. Her brother Bryce calls her to say she’s needed for a photography job with the baseball club so she flies home. She meets a cocky guy that she ends up seated next to on the flight, there’s turbulence, an emergency landing and a forced night together. There is so much going on in this book that my review would be a novel in itself. Suffice it to say, I absolutely loved this book, all 772 pages and it never dragged. There was lots of humor, tears and so much love and acceptance. Even though it was a long book I hated to see it end … but, there is another novella coming to wrap up the HEA so I’m very excited about that. Oh … Graham & Tucker … win best comedy duo in a book.
January 2, 2024
An amazing journey
This book is simply perfection! The character development was great, and it made the story more believable. I love that the FMC found her voice and went for what she wanted. The four MMC's developed relationships with each other aside from the FMC being their focus, whether it was friendship and comraderie or falling in love. There was plenty of spice and everything nice within the book, but not so much that there wasn't a storyline in between. It brings awareness to the fact that many people remain homophobic, especially in sports. It also shows how many people are more accepting of relationships outside of the heteronormal/ traditional setting while highlighting that love is love. Another amazing creation by Kris Butler! Definitely recommend to all reverse harem reader fans!
This book is simply perfection! The character development was great, and it made the story more believable. I love that the FMC found her voice and went for what she wanted. The four MMC's developed relationships with each other aside from the FMC being their focus, whether it was friendship and comraderie or falling in love. There was plenty of spice and everything nice within the book, but not so much that there wasn't a storyline in between. It brings awareness to the fact that many people remain homophobic, especially in sports. It also shows how many people are more accepting of relationships outside of the heteronormal/ traditional setting while highlighting that love is love. Another amazing creation by Kris Butler! Definitely recommend to all reverse harem reader fans!
January 2, 2024
I went into this book wondering what was going to happen between Hawk and Blake after the ending of the prequel, The Cleat Retreat. And my attention was completely hooked when I read that one of the tropes/contents of the book would include “Planegasms, busgasms, and stadiumgasms”. 🤣 As you can imagine, there were many many spicy scenes in the book, and I absolutely loved the characters. Graham, Tucker, Luke, Hawk, and Blake all had different personalities, but they learned how to get along, work together, and reach their HEA. I also liked seeing some of the other ball players and side characters that popped in throughout the book and some I know will be in future books. Can’t wait to see them again. Don’t be intimidated by the high page count, the story will suck you in and it felt like a quick read.
January 17, 2024
I've been looking forward to this one since I read The Cleat Retreat and it was everything I was hoping for and more!!
The Pitch Slap is book #1 in Beauty and The Cleats. This is an interconnected standalone series. This is a why choose romance.
Blake is out here just living my dreams!!!
I just have to say that anything Kris Butler writes, I love!! Blake, Hawk, Graham, Tucker and Luke are amazing!! I was sucked into their story from the very start and I didn't want it to ever end.
This book has everything you love in a why choose, a relatable FMC, smoking hot guys, amazing spicy scenes, protective brother and amazing best friend, and a story that will keep you obsessing over these characters. I couldn't put my Kindle down until I finished and I already know I'll be rereading again. And I can't wait for more books in this series!!!!
Go read this book!!!!
The Pitch Slap is book #1 in Beauty and The Cleats. This is an interconnected standalone series. This is a why choose romance.
Blake is out here just living my dreams!!!
I just have to say that anything Kris Butler writes, I love!! Blake, Hawk, Graham, Tucker and Luke are amazing!! I was sucked into their story from the very start and I didn't want it to ever end.
This book has everything you love in a why choose, a relatable FMC, smoking hot guys, amazing spicy scenes, protective brother and amazing best friend, and a story that will keep you obsessing over these characters. I couldn't put my Kindle down until I finished and I already know I'll be rereading again. And I can't wait for more books in this series!!!!
Go read this book!!!!
December 31, 2023
This Is So Pitchin Good!!!
I fell head over heels for all these characters. There is a pierce of Blake in all the women I know, including me. Her insecurities were so relatable. And the guys each had their own insecurities that humanized them and made them so real to me. Hawk brought the growly alpha vibe, Luke was the lost reformed playboy, Graham was our voice of reason and Tucker is the underestimated golden retriever with more depth than he’s given credit for. I freaking loved them all. And Blake is all of us. Gah. Loved their story and can’t wait to read about Bryce and some of the other characters as the series continues. Well done Ms Butler. Total home run!!! Read trigger warnings and then sit back with a box of crackerjacks and enjoy the game!!
5/5 ⭐️
4/5 🌶️
I fell head over heels for all these characters. There is a pierce of Blake in all the women I know, including me. Her insecurities were so relatable. And the guys each had their own insecurities that humanized them and made them so real to me. Hawk brought the growly alpha vibe, Luke was the lost reformed playboy, Graham was our voice of reason and Tucker is the underestimated golden retriever with more depth than he’s given credit for. I freaking loved them all. And Blake is all of us. Gah. Loved their story and can’t wait to read about Bryce and some of the other characters as the series continues. Well done Ms Butler. Total home run!!! Read trigger warnings and then sit back with a box of crackerjacks and enjoy the game!!
5/5 ⭐️
4/5 🌶️
May 1, 2024
I swear Kris Butler is one of the few authors that can make a 772 page book that doesn’t feel long! 😂 I’m glad I read the prequel, but it wasn’t strictly necessary as all the important details are shared throughout this book.
While I wanted to slap Blake around a few times for her doubts, it was way less than most fmc, and overall she was great. I loved how she grew throughout the book and rediscovered herself, her passions, her voice, and determination. Oh, and libido.
And the guys… Ooh damn… I already had a crush on Hawk from The Cleat Retreat, but when he finally admits his feelings, all bets are off. Add in the sweet, emotional stability of Graham, chocolate doodle puppy dog energy of Tucker, and struggling golden boy Luke, and it’s a recipe for success. And spice! 😂
While I wanted to slap Blake around a few times for her doubts, it was way less than most fmc, and overall she was great. I loved how she grew throughout the book and rediscovered herself, her passions, her voice, and determination. Oh, and libido.
And the guys… Ooh damn… I already had a crush on Hawk from The Cleat Retreat, but when he finally admits his feelings, all bets are off. Add in the sweet, emotional stability of Graham, chocolate doodle puppy dog energy of Tucker, and struggling golden boy Luke, and it’s a recipe for success. And spice! 😂
July 30, 2024
4.5⭐️ Whew….that was a long one. This was a first for me reading about baseball players. I wasn’t too sure I’d like it because I am a diehard hockey fan but I was pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed the way each of the characters had their story detailed. It made me feel like I was right there following along with the story as it unfolds. What I would have wished for more of was the group interactions. They didn’t get together until the epilogue as a group. There was definitely a lot of lead up but no follow through. I really wished the author included more of their lives after they were finally together as a family. But she did say there was going to be a novella in the future so I’ll be on the lookout for that.
August 27, 2024
For how long this book was there was a lot of story not told. I guess it's going to be a series so eventually the characters will feel more real? Idk I feel like Tuck and Graham had the best relationship out of the lot of them. The group dynamics were messy and for all the talk about communication they didn't seem to do a lot of it.
Also, as a baseball fan, this was a bit overkill on the baseballisms. Also, there were some things that would just never happen in a baseball game. Tuck's no-hitter at an away game would have ended, there would have been no second half of that inning to finish before they could celebrate, for how much baseball detail that went into this it was weird for that to be wrong.
Also, as a baseball fan, this was a bit overkill on the baseballisms. Also, there were some things that would just never happen in a baseball game. Tuck's no-hitter at an away game would have ended, there would have been no second half of that inning to finish before they could celebrate, for how much baseball detail that went into this it was weird for that to be wrong.
January 7, 2024
If you have not read Kris Butler, my question is why?? You need to read anything from her! I fell in love with Blake and Hawk in the prequel and could not wait to this story. I was hooked from start, Blake is one lucky woman with her men, and I also loved Graham and Tucker finding their as well. Kris makes you feel a part of the story with her words. I laughed, cried, got angry, and cheered as I read. I didn't want the story to end honestly. This is my favorite so far this year. I am so looking forward to the rest of the books in this series.
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 3, 2024
4.5 ⭐
As i said before this was My first book about the sports with the sequel . Knowing Blake story and see how much she change over the story Journey was amazing. And the guys .. oh wow i think each one had some kind of insecurities or anxiaty and was good how much they lean on together. This book got me excited to know more of Ledger ... And i really need a Novella to know where we got with they life im really rooting for Blake pregnancy after everything she went through i want to SEE more of the mom side ... Love this story SO much
As i said before this was My first book about the sports with the sequel . Knowing Blake story and see how much she change over the story Journey was amazing. And the guys .. oh wow i think each one had some kind of insecurities or anxiaty and was good how much they lean on together. This book got me excited to know more of Ledger ... And i really need a Novella to know where we got with they life im really rooting for Blake pregnancy after everything she went through i want to SEE more of the mom side ... Love this story SO much
January 17, 2024
The Pitch Slap, by Kris Butler, is the first full installment in her Beauty and the Cleats series. It is an excellent why choose romance with some interaction from the MMCs as well. I found it to be very tastefully written from the romantic POV, and very interesting and informative from the world of professional baseball. I enjoyed how all of the characters had their own issues yet each was deeply committed to Blake and found solace within the group. Overall, this is definitely a great read, witty, fun, steamy, informative and romantic all rolled up into one great novel!
January 19, 2024
This book is a beast! Just be prepared because it isn’t a short read, but it’s oh so good! I fell in love with some of the characters in the prequel, and I loved them even more in this one. I love that we get to learn more about baseball as I’m not big into sports, but I love finding out how it works behind the scenes. Kris is an amazing storyteller, something she just proves once more with this book. We also get hints into the next standalone. I’m really looking forward to the other books in this series.
January 1, 2024
Sooo good! I love Blake so much 🤩 she was so relatable with her struggles of wanting to be better and taken seriously.
Her guys were perfectly imperfect. Their personalities were versatile and we get a taste of a bit of all the things we love in a book boyfriend.
The pitch slap is a contemporary sports why choose romance with plenty of plot and spicy scenes. There are some triggers so be sure to check those!
Her guys were perfectly imperfect. Their personalities were versatile and we get a taste of a bit of all the things we love in a book boyfriend.
The pitch slap is a contemporary sports why choose romance with plenty of plot and spicy scenes. There are some triggers so be sure to check those!
January 16, 2024
Book Slapped
Kris really hit this one out of the park! I loved the dynamic between Blake and her men. How their paths crossed prior and how they had to overcome issues within their relationships.
The writing style and storyline really brought you in. The only thing I’d love was more interaction from Jasmine, the team, and extend epilogue! Do they go up the Majors?? Have kids?? How did Willow react to the hearing outcome???
Overall loved this! Loved the spice! Love her work!!!
Kris really hit this one out of the park! I loved the dynamic between Blake and her men. How their paths crossed prior and how they had to overcome issues within their relationships.
The writing style and storyline really brought you in. The only thing I’d love was more interaction from Jasmine, the team, and extend epilogue! Do they go up the Majors?? Have kids?? How did Willow react to the hearing outcome???
Overall loved this! Loved the spice! Love her work!!!
June 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! I love the guys and Blake. I loved her personality. I love the baseball aspect. How she’s been raised in it and really truly respects the sport. I have only recently grown to like baseball. I loved her relationship with the guys. I wish that Luke gave her a chance to explain it was a huge misunderstanding. She really does care for all of them in such a profound way that she and they all deserve. I loved this book. Highly recommend!
December 31, 2023
So I’ve been waiting for this book patiently to come out since the prequel tasting was released…this did not disappoint. Read the prequel first so you get the back story. Blake is still my hero. The guys are awesome. I want Rue and Em to have their own stories. No spoilers just read and enjoy. There are some laughs, rage, and teary eyed moments.
December 31, 2023
I love books by this author for sure and this one is such a good story. It is a sports romance and I love those so much too! Course we had the prequel which made me drool a bit so I was ready to read this. Do read that one first though as it gives a backstory you'll need to fully get this book. I don't wanna spoil it too much but I love Blake and her guys!
January 3, 2024
A Fantastic Read
I absolutely loved reading The Pitch Slap!! This book completely consumed me, and I seriously could stop reading til the very last page.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Happily Ever After
Original
Page-turner
Romantic
Steamy
Tear-jerker
Entertaining
Witty
Easy-to-read
Great world building
Wonderful characters
I absolutely loved reading The Pitch Slap!! This book completely consumed me, and I seriously could stop reading til the very last page.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Happily Ever After
Original
Page-turner
Romantic
Steamy
Tear-jerker
Entertaining
Witty
Easy-to-read
Great world building
Wonderful characters
January 1, 2024
fell in love!
After reading The Cleat Retreat I couldn’t wait for this one to come out! Blake is an amazing MFC! The guys will all make you swoon! I think I fell in love with Tucker right from the start! This is a definite must read!
After reading The Cleat Retreat I couldn’t wait for this one to come out! Blake is an amazing MFC! The guys will all make you swoon! I think I fell in love with Tucker right from the start! This is a definite must read!
January 5, 2024
Great
Absolutely loved this. Kris Butler put emotion, baseball, and romance into a big story and it worked out perfectly. The characters have growth (I maybe cried, don’t tell anyone) and the romance was sweet and spicy!
Absolutely loved this. Kris Butler put emotion, baseball, and romance into a big story and it worked out perfectly. The characters have growth (I maybe cried, don’t tell anyone) and the romance was sweet and spicy!
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