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The Closer
Tytus Hayes Jr. is well on his way to becoming the best MLB closer New York City has ever seen.Sarah Dalton is taking the Broadway scene by storm.Both are focused on their careers and overcoming the trauma of their pasts.Neither is looking for love.But, sometimes life throws you a curveball when you least expect it.
- GenresSports Romance
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2023
9 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
March 21, 2024
This is such a wonderful read! I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely adored the main characters, Tytus and Sarah. They are both successful in their careers and focused on that, not on searching for anything serious with anyone. They both have trust and jealousy issues, which makes their story an emotional roller coaster. But when they are able to come together it’s 🔥
At times I was laughing so hard at the humor, other times I felt frustrated right along with the characters, and that’s all thanks to the descriptive and amazing writing. I also could not get enough of the Billy Joel references 🥰
Tropes:
🤍 he falls first
🖤 pro athlete x broadway actress
⚾️ opposites attract
🖤 slow burn
🤍 anxiety rep
⚾️ family drama
🖤 emotional scars
🤍 spice
Thank you to the author and Sunny Babe PR for the eARC!
At times I was laughing so hard at the humor, other times I felt frustrated right along with the characters, and that’s all thanks to the descriptive and amazing writing. I also could not get enough of the Billy Joel references 🥰
Tropes:
🤍 he falls first
🖤 pro athlete x broadway actress
⚾️ opposites attract
🖤 slow burn
🤍 anxiety rep
⚾️ family drama
🖤 emotional scars
🤍 spice
Thank you to the author and Sunny Babe PR for the eARC!
April 18, 2024
Love myself a hot athlete who goes to therapy 🔥🔥
3.5⭐️
3.5⭐️
May 5, 2024
Another book I should’ve DNF. I was two thirds of the way in when I started thinking about DNF, but thought I should finish it since I got that far.
The pacing did get slightly better - but then the MMC and FMC became increasingly more annoying. I don’t enjoy the miscommunication trope and the anger/jealousy issues was just too much for me.
Received an eARC from Sunny Babe PR, I really need to get better at selecting eARCs.
The pacing did get slightly better - but then the MMC and FMC became increasingly more annoying. I don’t enjoy the miscommunication trope and the anger/jealousy issues was just too much for me.
Received an eARC from Sunny Babe PR, I really need to get better at selecting eARCs.
March 14, 2024
Professional baseball player meets broadway star in this spicy rom com.
As soon as Tytus meets Sarah, she’s all he can think about. And even though she said she doesn’t date professional athletes.. she can’t seem to get him off her mind.
This book is written in third person dual POV, which I prefer first person but it was still written very well! It was also really well paced, even though it’s a little longer than I typically like romance books to be, I didn’t feel like it was dragged out at all. Their story felt so real and raw, it was an emotional roller coaster and I felt all of it! They had a great chemistry and I loved it. And that spice was SPICIN 🥵
Read if you love:
-sports romance
-emotional breakthrough
-great chemistry
-he falls first
Thanks to SunnyBabePR + the author for my e-copy!
As soon as Tytus meets Sarah, she’s all he can think about. And even though she said she doesn’t date professional athletes.. she can’t seem to get him off her mind.
This book is written in third person dual POV, which I prefer first person but it was still written very well! It was also really well paced, even though it’s a little longer than I typically like romance books to be, I didn’t feel like it was dragged out at all. Their story felt so real and raw, it was an emotional roller coaster and I felt all of it! They had a great chemistry and I loved it. And that spice was SPICIN 🥵
Read if you love:
-sports romance
-emotional breakthrough
-great chemistry
-he falls first
Thanks to SunnyBabePR + the author for my e-copy!
March 15, 2024
“What comes easy won’t last, and what last won’t come easy.”
This quote from Sarah’s grandfather basically sums up the entire story of Tytus and Sarah.
This baseball/broadway romance shows the difficulties in overcoming personal insecurities and pasts when falling in love for the first time. The fact that these two have extremely demanding professional lives only add fuel to the difficulties they face.
The chemistry between them seems organic and even though Tytus is cocky (confident…😏), he learns important lessons in allowing himself to be with someone and work through his issues. Sarah has to learn to trust someone and open herself up to the pains that can come with meeting the person you fall in love with. It felt believable and honest. His entire family is absolutely adorable, especially his Dad! 🥰 His support for both of them was unwavering.
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure for the first maybe 10% if I was going to get into this, but that very quickly disappeared and I couldn’t put it down! I know absolutely nothing about baseball - being from the UK it isn’t really a thing here! But that didn’t matter, I still felt the excitement at the games and was rooting for Tytus and his team mates the whole way through.
If sport romances are your thing, go for it!
This quote from Sarah’s grandfather basically sums up the entire story of Tytus and Sarah.
This baseball/broadway romance shows the difficulties in overcoming personal insecurities and pasts when falling in love for the first time. The fact that these two have extremely demanding professional lives only add fuel to the difficulties they face.
The chemistry between them seems organic and even though Tytus is cocky (confident…😏), he learns important lessons in allowing himself to be with someone and work through his issues. Sarah has to learn to trust someone and open herself up to the pains that can come with meeting the person you fall in love with. It felt believable and honest. His entire family is absolutely adorable, especially his Dad! 🥰 His support for both of them was unwavering.
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure for the first maybe 10% if I was going to get into this, but that very quickly disappeared and I couldn’t put it down! I know absolutely nothing about baseball - being from the UK it isn’t really a thing here! But that didn’t matter, I still felt the excitement at the games and was rooting for Tytus and his team mates the whole way through.
If sport romances are your thing, go for it!
March 16, 2024
Here’s the thing, I am absolutely obsessed with this book! I loved the heck out of Sara, and I felt like I could really relate with her as a character. Between her worries, and Titus is warriors, the author really did a good job of encompassing the fears that come along with a relationship, especially ones at such a high volume of interest being in the spotlight. I feel like Titus and Sara both had a lot of things to work all day at the beginning, but it was very cool to see them work through it together and learn together. There were a lot of times that I was laughing so hard I was crying, but then I was also crying crying hard. There were some definite times where I was sobbing like a little baby. The author did such a great job making it feel like you were right there with the characters. I loved feeling like I was part of their little group in joining them at all of the baseball games and times that they were in the bars, listening to jazz music. every part of this book was very relatable. It is a definite must read if you love following your dreams and chasing after your hearts, desire! The ending, though, that better mean there’s a second book coming because you can’t just leave us hanging like that.
March 12, 2024
The Closer follows Tytus Hayes Jr., a closer for the New York Yankees, and Sarah Dalton, a broadway actress embarking on her first lead role. These two had an instant attraction and my god is it an intense attraction. They both have their own trauma and problems to sort through whilst forming and keeping their relationship alive.
There’s multiple POV switches per chapter which I loved. Seeing each moment from both perspectives was perfectly and really gave a good insight into their relationship. Their connection is so genuine and authentic and their relationships with their friends and Sarah’s relationship with Tytus’ family are so sweet and made me tear up. I want Tytus Sr. to be my dad!
This was my first baseball romance and although I know nothing about baseball (being from the UK) I loved it. I felt the excitement and atmosphere of each game. The spice in this book too!!!! The scenes were so well written I could feel the tension between the characters at points. This book was incredibly well written and I look forward to seeing what else C. Aimee Hyde writes in the future!
“What comes easy won’t last, and what lasts won’t come easy”
There’s multiple POV switches per chapter which I loved. Seeing each moment from both perspectives was perfectly and really gave a good insight into their relationship. Their connection is so genuine and authentic and their relationships with their friends and Sarah’s relationship with Tytus’ family are so sweet and made me tear up. I want Tytus Sr. to be my dad!
This was my first baseball romance and although I know nothing about baseball (being from the UK) I loved it. I felt the excitement and atmosphere of each game. The spice in this book too!!!! The scenes were so well written I could feel the tension between the characters at points. This book was incredibly well written and I look forward to seeing what else C. Aimee Hyde writes in the future!
“What comes easy won’t last, and what lasts won’t come easy”
March 21, 2024
The Closer was a surprise to me. I expected the romance. Tension between the FMC and MMC because they are both well known in their careers and are both confident and arrogant. However, I loved how Hyde showed you their flaws but also how they grew. How the characters recognized their flaws and then sought help and healing throughout the book. I got goosebumps towards the end of the book because of nostalgia. The MMC is a closing pitcher for The New York Yankees, when this started I was like, ““No one is going to live up to Mo Rivera. Pssshhh…” I grew up in a yankee fan household. Derek Jeter was/is my favorite baseball player. The rivalry between NYY and the Red Sox is a religion. So the scene where Tytus is pitching in his hometown of Boston against the Sox was beautiful. My favorite part of the book. Tytus’s growth and his willingness to seek out help when he knew how he felt about Sarah was great. I was very worried for a moment. Overall loved the book and recommend!!!
March 12, 2024
4.5 Stars!
What a great baseball romance!
The author does a really great job of capturing an authentic love story that feels realistic.
The connection between Sarah and Tytus seems so organic and real. There is a good mix of passion, emotion and angst throughout the story too.
It is a slow paced romance, but that is what made it feel so authentic that it was paced like a normal relationship and the challenges that came up were believable. It was nice to see them grow together.
Overall a really sweet and heartwarming love story! Recommend checking this one out especially if you are a fan of sports romance and he falls first!❤️
Thank you @sunnybabepr & @caimeehyde for this #gifted e-copy!🫶🏼
What a great baseball romance!
The author does a really great job of capturing an authentic love story that feels realistic.
The connection between Sarah and Tytus seems so organic and real. There is a good mix of passion, emotion and angst throughout the story too.
It is a slow paced romance, but that is what made it feel so authentic that it was paced like a normal relationship and the challenges that came up were believable. It was nice to see them grow together.
Overall a really sweet and heartwarming love story! Recommend checking this one out especially if you are a fan of sports romance and he falls first!❤️
Thank you @sunnybabepr & @caimeehyde for this #gifted e-copy!🫶🏼
March 20, 2024
Every once in a while, I'm in the mood for a rom-com sports romance and this one fit the bill! Tytus, the professional baseball player and Sarah, the Broadway actress have the perfect chemistry. Def don't see these two professions intermixing and it worked out great! It had the right about of spice and romance and we all love that, wink wink!!! The book also had some tension that both had to overcome with their schedules and trying long distance dating and feeling insecure. Thank you Sunny Babe PR for the arc to read and review.
February 26, 2024
This is my first baseball read and I absolutely loved it!
Two souls who have had their fair share of trauma and hurt, become one..
And watching Ty suffer with so much internal anguish, reading his panic attacks, I felt like I was consoling him through it.
Out of all the reads I’ve read, Sarah would have to be my book bestie.
And Ty’s jealous side🥵
The way I ate this up and just felt at home with the characters. 10/10 for me.
Two souls who have had their fair share of trauma and hurt, become one..
And watching Ty suffer with so much internal anguish, reading his panic attacks, I felt like I was consoling him through it.
Out of all the reads I’ve read, Sarah would have to be my book bestie.
And Ty’s jealous side🥵
The way I ate this up and just felt at home with the characters. 10/10 for me.
March 31, 2024
I have never read a book that had baseball in it and i loveddddd it. This book was such an easy and sweet read. I loved the story behind it and i felt every emotion right along with the characters. It is so well written! Amazing!
March 20, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ Cute little love story about an MLB baseball player and a actress on broadway ⚾️🎬
March 15, 2024
⚾️ 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙲𝙻𝙾𝚂𝙴𝚁 ⚾️ 𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆
𝙱𝚢: @caimeehyde
Thank you @sunnybabepr and @caimeehyde for the opportunity to read and review!🫶🏻📚
Absolutely loved this! The spice was for sure there! 🌶️🌶️🌶️ I loved the immediate connection between Sarah & Tytus. The writing was flawless! I could picture almost everything I was reading. It was such a cutesy read!! And it definitely pulled at my heartstrings! Love me a good happy ending 🥰
“White roses are white
and pink ones are pink.
My first try at romance,
what do you think?”
𝙱𝚢: @caimeehyde
Thank you @sunnybabepr and @caimeehyde for the opportunity to read and review!🫶🏻📚
Absolutely loved this! The spice was for sure there! 🌶️🌶️🌶️ I loved the immediate connection between Sarah & Tytus. The writing was flawless! I could picture almost everything I was reading. It was such a cutesy read!! And it definitely pulled at my heartstrings! Love me a good happy ending 🥰
“White roses are white
and pink ones are pink.
My first try at romance,
what do you think?”
March 18, 2024
This book is full of some awesome slow burn and some seriously real trauma representation/healing. On of the most “real” sports romances I’ve read - I loved falling in love with Tytus & Sarah 😌
February 26, 2024
ARC Review
The closer
Tytus and Sarah are setup essentially by their best friends all though they had no idea about the setup they instaintly hit it off. With Tytus being a professional baseball player and Sarah a broadway actress it becomes hard for them to hold a traditional relationship due to
There demanding schedule. They battle with jealously, fear of being left or cheated on, but overall loved the drama and spicy scenes.
my favorite quote
“Careful who you tease.” His breath is hot. “Maybe you don’t know who I am?” He licks her neck and whispers, “I’m Tytus fucking Hayes.”
The closer
Tytus and Sarah are setup essentially by their best friends all though they had no idea about the setup they instaintly hit it off. With Tytus being a professional baseball player and Sarah a broadway actress it becomes hard for them to hold a traditional relationship due to
There demanding schedule. They battle with jealously, fear of being left or cheated on, but overall loved the drama and spicy scenes.
my favorite quote
“Careful who you tease.” His breath is hot. “Maybe you don’t know who I am?” He licks her neck and whispers, “I’m Tytus fucking Hayes.”
January 12, 2024
"The Closer" is a riveting novel that seamlessly weaves the worlds of Major League Baseball and Broadway into a tapestry of personal growth, resilience, and unexpected love. Authored by C. Aimee Hyde , this literary gem takes readers on an emotional journey through the lives of two captivating protagonists, Tytus Hayes Jr. and Sarah Dalton.
At the heart of the narrative is Tytus Hayes Jr., a rising star in the MLB and a force to be reckoned with on the pitcher's mound. As a closer for a New York City team, Tytus embodies determination and skill as he navigates the competitive world of professional baseball. The author skillfully captures the intensity of each game, making the reader feel the adrenaline of each crucial pitch. Tytus's character is not merely defined by his athletic prowess; he is a complex individual wrestling with the scars of his past.
On the other side of the spectrum is Sarah Dalton, a Broadway sensation making waves in the entertainment industry. Her journey is one of triumph over adversity, as she conquers the challenges of the demanding and cutthroat Broadway scene. The author paints a vivid picture of the glitz and glamour of Sarah's life, showcasing the highs and lows of her career. Despite her outward success, Sarah, too, is haunted by her own personal demons.
The brilliance of "The Closer" lies in its ability to juxtapose the seemingly disparate worlds of sports and entertainment, revealing the common threads of ambition, resilience, and healing that bind its characters. Tytus and Sarah's paths cross in the bustling metropolis of New York City, a backdrop that adds depth to the narrative. The city becomes a character in itself, influencing the characters' choices and shaping their destinies.
What sets this novel apart is its exploration of the profound impact of trauma on personal growth. Both Tytus and Sarah are survivors, grappling with their pasts in a relentless pursuit of success. The author handles the delicate subject matter with sensitivity, portraying the characters' vulnerabilities with authenticity. The reader is invited to witness the characters' inner struggles and cheer for their victories, both on and off the field.
The romance that unfolds between Tytus and Sarah is a slow burn, defying the clichés of love at first sight. Their connection is organic, grounded in mutual respect and shared experiences. As the protagonists navigate the challenges of their respective careers, the chemistry between them builds, adding a layer of depth to the narrative. The love story is heartwarming without being saccharine, providing a refreshing take on romance in a contemporary setting.
In "The Closer," the author also delves into themes of self-discovery and the importance of human connection. The characters' journeys are intertwined with those of supporting cast members who contribute to the overall richness of the narrative. Each character is meticulously crafted, contributing to the novel's immersive quality.
In conclusion, "The Closer" is a masterfully written novel that transcends genres. It seamlessly blends the excitement of sports with the glamour of Broadway, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with readers on a profound level. With well-developed characters, a captivating plot, and a nuanced exploration of trauma and love, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a story that goes beyond the surface, leaving a lasting impression that extends well beyond the final page.
Highly recommended ✨
At the heart of the narrative is Tytus Hayes Jr., a rising star in the MLB and a force to be reckoned with on the pitcher's mound. As a closer for a New York City team, Tytus embodies determination and skill as he navigates the competitive world of professional baseball. The author skillfully captures the intensity of each game, making the reader feel the adrenaline of each crucial pitch. Tytus's character is not merely defined by his athletic prowess; he is a complex individual wrestling with the scars of his past.
On the other side of the spectrum is Sarah Dalton, a Broadway sensation making waves in the entertainment industry. Her journey is one of triumph over adversity, as she conquers the challenges of the demanding and cutthroat Broadway scene. The author paints a vivid picture of the glitz and glamour of Sarah's life, showcasing the highs and lows of her career. Despite her outward success, Sarah, too, is haunted by her own personal demons.
The brilliance of "The Closer" lies in its ability to juxtapose the seemingly disparate worlds of sports and entertainment, revealing the common threads of ambition, resilience, and healing that bind its characters. Tytus and Sarah's paths cross in the bustling metropolis of New York City, a backdrop that adds depth to the narrative. The city becomes a character in itself, influencing the characters' choices and shaping their destinies.
What sets this novel apart is its exploration of the profound impact of trauma on personal growth. Both Tytus and Sarah are survivors, grappling with their pasts in a relentless pursuit of success. The author handles the delicate subject matter with sensitivity, portraying the characters' vulnerabilities with authenticity. The reader is invited to witness the characters' inner struggles and cheer for their victories, both on and off the field.
The romance that unfolds between Tytus and Sarah is a slow burn, defying the clichés of love at first sight. Their connection is organic, grounded in mutual respect and shared experiences. As the protagonists navigate the challenges of their respective careers, the chemistry between them builds, adding a layer of depth to the narrative. The love story is heartwarming without being saccharine, providing a refreshing take on romance in a contemporary setting.
In "The Closer," the author also delves into themes of self-discovery and the importance of human connection. The characters' journeys are intertwined with those of supporting cast members who contribute to the overall richness of the narrative. Each character is meticulously crafted, contributing to the novel's immersive quality.
In conclusion, "The Closer" is a masterfully written novel that transcends genres. It seamlessly blends the excitement of sports with the glamour of Broadway, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with readers on a profound level. With well-developed characters, a captivating plot, and a nuanced exploration of trauma and love, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking a story that goes beyond the surface, leaving a lasting impression that extends well beyond the final page.
Highly recommended ✨
March 20, 2024
Thank you Sunny Babe PR for this arc in return for an honest review.
I was really excited to read this book since sport romances is one of my favorite tropes but I made it 50% in and they story just wasn’t for me.
I was really excited to read this book since sport romances is one of my favorite tropes but I made it 50% in and they story just wasn’t for me.
June 28, 2024
Thank you sunnybabepr for choosing me to be an ARC reader for this steamy sports romance! It was such a fun read!!
Sports romances are not typically what I go for as a fantasy girly but I was in the mood for something romantic and this hit the spot 👏🏻
I loved how it wasn’t your stereotypical meet cute, fall in love, have conflict, miscommunicate for a while, fix conflict and boom the end.
I feel like there was several small things sprinkled throughout the book that caused some tension that the FMC and MMC had to work through, and that made it very realistic to what a real life relationship is like which I really enjoyed!
I LOOOVED the dual POV in this story and getting an inside look at how both the FMC and the MMC worked through toxic habits. Most relationships aren’t smooth sailing and we all bring not-so-positive personality traits to the table that we have to work through so I felt like this was such a good, realistic and HEALTHY example of how a relationship can work through conflict, both as a couple and individuals!
I loved the ending, I felt like everything wrapped up together so well. There was no loose ends. And nobody had to compromise to the point that they were sacrificing who they really are or their happiness. I just thought it was all done so well👏🏻👏🏻
And just a note: the spice was SPICY 🌶️🌶️🌶️ there was one scene in particular that had me clutching my pearls 🤣🤣 it was so fun!
And one last side note: I played baseball for many years growing up and I also did theatre as a teenager: and the author got all the terminology correct. I was so surprised by all of the knowledge about baseball throughout the book! This author did their research 🙌🏻👏🏻
Great work C. Aimee Hyde!! I’m a fan🙌🏻
Sports romances are not typically what I go for as a fantasy girly but I was in the mood for something romantic and this hit the spot 👏🏻
I loved how it wasn’t your stereotypical meet cute, fall in love, have conflict, miscommunicate for a while, fix conflict and boom the end.
I feel like there was several small things sprinkled throughout the book that caused some tension that the FMC and MMC had to work through, and that made it very realistic to what a real life relationship is like which I really enjoyed!
I LOOOVED the dual POV in this story and getting an inside look at how both the FMC and the MMC worked through toxic habits. Most relationships aren’t smooth sailing and we all bring not-so-positive personality traits to the table that we have to work through so I felt like this was such a good, realistic and HEALTHY example of how a relationship can work through conflict, both as a couple and individuals!
I loved the ending, I felt like everything wrapped up together so well. There was no loose ends. And nobody had to compromise to the point that they were sacrificing who they really are or their happiness. I just thought it was all done so well👏🏻👏🏻
And just a note: the spice was SPICY 🌶️🌶️🌶️ there was one scene in particular that had me clutching my pearls 🤣🤣 it was so fun!
And one last side note: I played baseball for many years growing up and I also did theatre as a teenager: and the author got all the terminology correct. I was so surprised by all of the knowledge about baseball throughout the book! This author did their research 🙌🏻👏🏻
Great work C. Aimee Hyde!! I’m a fan🙌🏻
January 1, 2025
I LOVED this book! It was beautifully written. The characters captured my heart. Tytus stole my heart!
December 4, 2023
uniquely written and moving! A baseball romance that actually incorporates baseball!!
The Closer by C. Aimee Hyde
4/5⭐️
A baseball romance with actual baseball and a celebrity relationship that manages to feel tangibly real and relatable.
•My Blurb•
Tytus Hayes Jr. is one of the best closers the Yankees have seen, he’s focused and determined to stay at the top of his game. Sarah Dalton’s broadway career is approaching a new high with her newest role and she’s content with her life. Neither expects or wants a connection but the sparks are hard to deny. Can they navigate a relationship through their past traumas as well as balance their demanding careers?
•My Thoughts•
This was such a uniquely written DEBUT romance story. We’re given these famous MCs who do not live regular lives and they are somehow presented in such a way that they seem like every day people just doing their jobs. Which feels…accurate (acknowledging that’s an opinion from someone who is not famous in anyway). They meet and their connection is so organic, it just flows off the page. I loved them, the possessive, cocky (Tytus would say confident) baseball player and the über talented broadway star. Their insecurities were so relatable. The story follows their relationship as it begins and as they learn about each other and learn to balance their demanding careers and choose each other. I found this romance to full of beautiful emotion and angst. While I felt like the pacing was slow, it also felt like it was a believable journey of attraction and feelings between regular people with past baggage. It felt like it followed the natural progression of a new relationship. ALSO, for all my baseball romance girls out there who are looking for baseball romance with substantial plot, this is for you! Baseball was a big part of the story but was also balanced and contrasted by the art world of broadway. If you’re in the mood for a slower paced, subtly soft romance with angst that’s all tied together around a powerhouse couple, please give this one a try!
#thecloser #caimeehyde #debutnovel #bookreview #bookrecommendations #sportsromance #contemporaryromance
The Closer by C. Aimee Hyde
4/5⭐️
A baseball romance with actual baseball and a celebrity relationship that manages to feel tangibly real and relatable.
•My Blurb•
Tytus Hayes Jr. is one of the best closers the Yankees have seen, he’s focused and determined to stay at the top of his game. Sarah Dalton’s broadway career is approaching a new high with her newest role and she’s content with her life. Neither expects or wants a connection but the sparks are hard to deny. Can they navigate a relationship through their past traumas as well as balance their demanding careers?
•My Thoughts•
This was such a uniquely written DEBUT romance story. We’re given these famous MCs who do not live regular lives and they are somehow presented in such a way that they seem like every day people just doing their jobs. Which feels…accurate (acknowledging that’s an opinion from someone who is not famous in anyway). They meet and their connection is so organic, it just flows off the page. I loved them, the possessive, cocky (Tytus would say confident) baseball player and the über talented broadway star. Their insecurities were so relatable. The story follows their relationship as it begins and as they learn about each other and learn to balance their demanding careers and choose each other. I found this romance to full of beautiful emotion and angst. While I felt like the pacing was slow, it also felt like it was a believable journey of attraction and feelings between regular people with past baggage. It felt like it followed the natural progression of a new relationship. ALSO, for all my baseball romance girls out there who are looking for baseball romance with substantial plot, this is for you! Baseball was a big part of the story but was also balanced and contrasted by the art world of broadway. If you’re in the mood for a slower paced, subtly soft romance with angst that’s all tied together around a powerhouse couple, please give this one a try!
#thecloser #caimeehyde #debutnovel #bookreview #bookrecommendations #sportsromance #contemporaryromance
February 3, 2024
📚✨ Book Review: "The Closer"
by C. Aimee Hyde ✨📚
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Dive into the enchanting world of "The Closer" by C. Aimee Hyde, a spellbinding debut romance that seamlessly blends the realms of baseball and Broadway.
👉Tytus Hayes Jr., the star closer for the Yankees, and Sarah Dalton, a rising Broadway sensation, collide unexpectedly, sparking a connection that neither of them anticipated. Focused on their respective careers and grappling with past traumas, they find themselves navigating the complex terrain of love.
👉The narrative unfolds with Tytus, determined to maintain his status as one of the best closers for the Yankees, and Sarah, content with her flourishing Broadway career. Their lives, though extraordinary, are portrayed with a refreshing semblance of normalcy. The chemistry between these characters is palpable, weaving a tale that feels remarkably real.
👉The pacing of the story, while deliberate, resonates with the natural progression of a new relationship. Tytus and Sarah's insecurities and vulnerabilities are laid bare, making them relatable and endearing to readers. The slow burn of their romance is a testament to the author's skill in capturing the authentic evolution of love.
👉The novel effortlessly integrates the worlds of baseball and Broadway, offering a unique and well-balanced narrative. Baseball, a significant aspect of Tytus's life, is portrayed authentically, providing substance to the romance. The contrast with the glamorous yet challenging world of Broadway adds depth to the story.
👉From the first few chapters, "The Closer" exudes a sense of something special. Tytus and Sarah's instant attraction sets the stage for a captivating journey of love and self-discovery. The author masterfully weaves a tale where the characters' connection is not only magnetic but also emotionally resonant.
👉This debut novel is a triumph in the sports romance genre. It delivers a genuine sports element, well-drawn characters, and a perfect blend of angst and passion. "The Closer" is destined to be a comfort read, leaving readers eagerly anticipating C. Aimee Hyde's future works.
Happy reading 😁😁
by C. Aimee Hyde ✨📚
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Dive into the enchanting world of "The Closer" by C. Aimee Hyde, a spellbinding debut romance that seamlessly blends the realms of baseball and Broadway.
👉Tytus Hayes Jr., the star closer for the Yankees, and Sarah Dalton, a rising Broadway sensation, collide unexpectedly, sparking a connection that neither of them anticipated. Focused on their respective careers and grappling with past traumas, they find themselves navigating the complex terrain of love.
👉The narrative unfolds with Tytus, determined to maintain his status as one of the best closers for the Yankees, and Sarah, content with her flourishing Broadway career. Their lives, though extraordinary, are portrayed with a refreshing semblance of normalcy. The chemistry between these characters is palpable, weaving a tale that feels remarkably real.
👉The pacing of the story, while deliberate, resonates with the natural progression of a new relationship. Tytus and Sarah's insecurities and vulnerabilities are laid bare, making them relatable and endearing to readers. The slow burn of their romance is a testament to the author's skill in capturing the authentic evolution of love.
👉The novel effortlessly integrates the worlds of baseball and Broadway, offering a unique and well-balanced narrative. Baseball, a significant aspect of Tytus's life, is portrayed authentically, providing substance to the romance. The contrast with the glamorous yet challenging world of Broadway adds depth to the story.
👉From the first few chapters, "The Closer" exudes a sense of something special. Tytus and Sarah's instant attraction sets the stage for a captivating journey of love and self-discovery. The author masterfully weaves a tale where the characters' connection is not only magnetic but also emotionally resonant.
👉This debut novel is a triumph in the sports romance genre. It delivers a genuine sports element, well-drawn characters, and a perfect blend of angst and passion. "The Closer" is destined to be a comfort read, leaving readers eagerly anticipating C. Aimee Hyde's future works.
Happy reading 😁😁
March 17, 2024
Sarah Dalton is staring in Chicago on Broadway. Her best friend Chrissie invites her to dinner where Sarah meets Tytus Hayes Jr. Tytus, the closer for The New York Yankees. Chrissie’s fiancé Nate is Tytus’s agent and best friend. They hit it off but their connection can’t go any further. Sarah’s show starts soon and he is headed to Tampa for spring training.
Plus they both have strict rules when it comes to dating - she does not date athletes and he doesn’t date during baseball season. Rules are made to be broken right?
“What comes easy won’t last, and what lasts won’t come easy.”
This is a beautiful story that deals with forgiveness and guilt and not feeling like you are enough. Sarah and Tytus had an immediate connection but had demanding careers (and some personal rules) that made dating almost impossible. They both were also carrying around some emotional scars and trauma and guilt.
This story felt very real to me - their relationship is sweet and swoon worthy but also gritty and tough and they have some serious ups and downs. It is very emotional but there is also some great banter and one liners! The book is written in a third person, dual POV style and I really liked being able to read the story from both of their perspectives.
I loved their text exchanges and how Tytus would go out of his way to show Sarah he was serious about her - when Sarah has a health scare he really shows up for her and when Tytus is forced to deal with his past Sarah is a rock for him.
The side character relationships in this book are just as good as the MC’s! Nate and Chrissie were the best friends anyone could ask for - I especially loved Sarah and Nate’s road trip! I loved how Tytus’s dad befriended Sarah and some of my favorite scenes are them talking and her night at the jazz club.
If you are someone who doesn’t like a ton of spice I think this would be a good book for you. The scenes are steamy but overall lighter spice wise.
Thanks to Sunny Babe PR for a copy of this eARC.
✨Genre/Tropes
⚾️Sports/Baseball Romance
🌟Baseball Player x Broadway Star
🌹He falls first
🏟️Opposites Attract
🔥Slow Burn
💙Anxiety Rep
🎭Emotional scars
❤️Found Family
Plus they both have strict rules when it comes to dating - she does not date athletes and he doesn’t date during baseball season. Rules are made to be broken right?
“What comes easy won’t last, and what lasts won’t come easy.”
This is a beautiful story that deals with forgiveness and guilt and not feeling like you are enough. Sarah and Tytus had an immediate connection but had demanding careers (and some personal rules) that made dating almost impossible. They both were also carrying around some emotional scars and trauma and guilt.
This story felt very real to me - their relationship is sweet and swoon worthy but also gritty and tough and they have some serious ups and downs. It is very emotional but there is also some great banter and one liners! The book is written in a third person, dual POV style and I really liked being able to read the story from both of their perspectives.
I loved their text exchanges and how Tytus would go out of his way to show Sarah he was serious about her - when Sarah has a health scare he really shows up for her and when Tytus is forced to deal with his past Sarah is a rock for him.
The side character relationships in this book are just as good as the MC’s! Nate and Chrissie were the best friends anyone could ask for - I especially loved Sarah and Nate’s road trip! I loved how Tytus’s dad befriended Sarah and some of my favorite scenes are them talking and her night at the jazz club.
If you are someone who doesn’t like a ton of spice I think this would be a good book for you. The scenes are steamy but overall lighter spice wise.
Thanks to Sunny Babe PR for a copy of this eARC.
✨Genre/Tropes
⚾️Sports/Baseball Romance
🌟Baseball Player x Broadway Star
🌹He falls first
🏟️Opposites Attract
🔥Slow Burn
💙Anxiety Rep
🎭Emotional scars
❤️Found Family
March 9, 2024
rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️
thank you to sunnybabepr for sending me a copy for an honest review!
with the first game of mlb season coming up in less than 3 weeks, this was the perfect book to get me into the baseball spirit!
I am a just a lad bias though because this book follows tytus hayes jr, one of the best new york yankees closers, and I am a red sox fan for life. It was a little rough reading about the opposing team but the story was so cute that I couldn’t put it down. side note I don’t know if the author is a yankees fan, but if you are, take care of verdugo this season 🥲 I was devastated to learn he was traded from the sox to the yankees for this upcoming season.
following the story of a famous broadway actress learning where she belongs in the industry and a well known baseball player who knows what his plan is was a duo I haven’t read about before. many of the romance books I have read, they both know what they are doing in life and it was refreshing to read a more down to earth book that felt more realistic. they also had multiple fights and disagreements in this book while usually they have one third act break up or no breakups at all.
sarah’s and tytus’ connection was instantaneous but they didn’t act on it for a while. the slow burn was definitely there! I loved reading how their relationship evolved over time and how they had to navigate both parties being well known in their respective communities. this felt like such a natural relationship and it felt so real while reading it. they had their ups and downs and both of them had some deep down issues that surfaced. neither one of them knew how to express themselves and pushed each other away at points.
don’t worry though, this is a hea and the hea was freaking perfect! I can’t believe I had to leave sarah and tytus behind when this book ended.
spice: 🌶️🌶️
thank you to sunnybabepr for sending me a copy for an honest review!
with the first game of mlb season coming up in less than 3 weeks, this was the perfect book to get me into the baseball spirit!
I am a just a lad bias though because this book follows tytus hayes jr, one of the best new york yankees closers, and I am a red sox fan for life. It was a little rough reading about the opposing team but the story was so cute that I couldn’t put it down. side note I don’t know if the author is a yankees fan, but if you are, take care of verdugo this season 🥲 I was devastated to learn he was traded from the sox to the yankees for this upcoming season.
following the story of a famous broadway actress learning where she belongs in the industry and a well known baseball player who knows what his plan is was a duo I haven’t read about before. many of the romance books I have read, they both know what they are doing in life and it was refreshing to read a more down to earth book that felt more realistic. they also had multiple fights and disagreements in this book while usually they have one third act break up or no breakups at all.
sarah’s and tytus’ connection was instantaneous but they didn’t act on it for a while. the slow burn was definitely there! I loved reading how their relationship evolved over time and how they had to navigate both parties being well known in their respective communities. this felt like such a natural relationship and it felt so real while reading it. they had their ups and downs and both of them had some deep down issues that surfaced. neither one of them knew how to express themselves and pushed each other away at points.
don’t worry though, this is a hea and the hea was freaking perfect! I can’t believe I had to leave sarah and tytus behind when this book ended.
March 19, 2024
I really liked how this book was done. It actually took in the factors that affects human at the age of thirty and works with them, instead of ignoring them. i’ve read books where the main characters are thirty years old or older and still act like teenagers.
the book was mature. like, the characters and the main relationship of the book were actually mature and it made me feel so satisfied while i was reading it.
some would think that the pace of book was too fast, and it does seem like it if you think about it, but somehow, the author managed to keep the perfect pace for the characters. there was enough time for them to get to know each other before they really became a couple, and the transition from strangers to friends to lovers was so seamless, i loved it.
the book had real emotions. oh, this was my most favourite part. it didn’t have the possessiveness that alpha male characters do. it had real jealousy, and real hurt, and real happiness. every emotion that the characters felt, felt so real to me here, as the reader. the angst and the fluff.
i also loved the way the book ended. not a definitive ending, but one that suggests that they lived their life together happily, and still had fights and still made each other cry.
what i didn’t love, was that i had expected more depth in the layers of the characters. tytus had that, but i felt like it quickly got squashed by the character arc of the person who hurt him. i wanted sarah to have a better layer, but it didn’t, and that kind of disappointed me.
tytus hayes sr was my favourite character, and you can fight me on this.
the book was mature. like, the characters and the main relationship of the book were actually mature and it made me feel so satisfied while i was reading it.
some would think that the pace of book was too fast, and it does seem like it if you think about it, but somehow, the author managed to keep the perfect pace for the characters. there was enough time for them to get to know each other before they really became a couple, and the transition from strangers to friends to lovers was so seamless, i loved it.
the book had real emotions. oh, this was my most favourite part. it didn’t have the possessiveness that alpha male characters do. it had real jealousy, and real hurt, and real happiness. every emotion that the characters felt, felt so real to me here, as the reader. the angst and the fluff.
i also loved the way the book ended. not a definitive ending, but one that suggests that they lived their life together happily, and still had fights and still made each other cry.
what i didn’t love, was that i had expected more depth in the layers of the characters. tytus had that, but i felt like it quickly got squashed by the character arc of the person who hurt him. i wanted sarah to have a better layer, but it didn’t, and that kind of disappointed me.
tytus hayes sr was my favourite character, and you can fight me on this.
March 18, 2024
Title: The Closer
Author: C. Aimee Hyde
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
Tytus Hayes Jr. is a professional baseball player and Sarah is a Broadway actress who vowed she would never date an athlete. When they are introduced to eachother by their best friends who are getting married, the attraction is immediate and Sarah finds it hard to stick to her plan of not dating an athlete…
This was a slow burn for me but I enjoyed the storyline and all of the roadblocks that Sarah and Tytus had to get through in order to find happiness. They both also have emotional baggage that they need to work through together in order for their relationship to work. It’s told from a dual point of view and I loved reading the story through both of their perspectives. Being a professional baseball player, Tytus is used to being the one getting all of the attention so it was great seeing that he met his match in Sarah, as her acting career takes off!
This was my first read by C. Aimee Hyde and it is a cute, fun, and easy to read sports romance where opposite attract. It includes a few spicy scenes that did not disappoint! I really enjoyed that their families were such an important part of the story and I especially loved Tytus’s dad and all of his words of wisdom and advice! I will definitely be looking to read more of C. Aimee Hyde’s books in the future!
The Closer is available now on Amazon and is free on KU!
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and C. Aimee Hyde for this advanced reader copy and for including me in this book tour!
Author: C. Aimee Hyde
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️
Tytus Hayes Jr. is a professional baseball player and Sarah is a Broadway actress who vowed she would never date an athlete. When they are introduced to eachother by their best friends who are getting married, the attraction is immediate and Sarah finds it hard to stick to her plan of not dating an athlete…
This was a slow burn for me but I enjoyed the storyline and all of the roadblocks that Sarah and Tytus had to get through in order to find happiness. They both also have emotional baggage that they need to work through together in order for their relationship to work. It’s told from a dual point of view and I loved reading the story through both of their perspectives. Being a professional baseball player, Tytus is used to being the one getting all of the attention so it was great seeing that he met his match in Sarah, as her acting career takes off!
This was my first read by C. Aimee Hyde and it is a cute, fun, and easy to read sports romance where opposite attract. It includes a few spicy scenes that did not disappoint! I really enjoyed that their families were such an important part of the story and I especially loved Tytus’s dad and all of his words of wisdom and advice! I will definitely be looking to read more of C. Aimee Hyde’s books in the future!
The Closer is available now on Amazon and is free on KU!
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and C. Aimee Hyde for this advanced reader copy and for including me in this book tour!
March 18, 2024
4,5 stars
-sports romance
-professional baseball player x broadway star
-he falls first
-slow burn
-opposites attract
-found family
i really enjoyed this book. the closer is a unique/ original story about a professional baseball player who doesn’t do love and a broadway star who doesn’t do athletes. there are some heavy topics in this book but in my opinion they were portrayed well, and there was a lot of personal growth from both of the characters.
tytus is cocky, sweet and supportive at the same time. he isn’t afraid to fight for something and even though it wasn’t always easy for him to talk about his feelings he tried his best to always reassure sarah. he’s her biggest fan and even though he tends to be jealous, he still believes she deserves everything and is supportive of all her achievements.
sarah is sassy, confident and strong. she isn’t afraid to talk about important things and is so supportive. she had some trouble with trusting another person like that again because she has been hurt in the past, and reading her progress throughout this book was simply amazing.
i loved the writing style. my preference usually is first person / dual pov but this book was just so well written that i didn’t mind at all. everything felt very natural and the pace of this book was realistic. both characters were relatable and it just made me like and understand them even more. if you like any of the tropes mentioned above i’d definitely recommend this to you!
thank you sunny babe pr for this e-arc! :)
-sports romance
-professional baseball player x broadway star
-he falls first
-slow burn
-opposites attract
-found family
i really enjoyed this book. the closer is a unique/ original story about a professional baseball player who doesn’t do love and a broadway star who doesn’t do athletes. there are some heavy topics in this book but in my opinion they were portrayed well, and there was a lot of personal growth from both of the characters.
tytus is cocky, sweet and supportive at the same time. he isn’t afraid to fight for something and even though it wasn’t always easy for him to talk about his feelings he tried his best to always reassure sarah. he’s her biggest fan and even though he tends to be jealous, he still believes she deserves everything and is supportive of all her achievements.
sarah is sassy, confident and strong. she isn’t afraid to talk about important things and is so supportive. she had some trouble with trusting another person like that again because she has been hurt in the past, and reading her progress throughout this book was simply amazing.
i loved the writing style. my preference usually is first person / dual pov but this book was just so well written that i didn’t mind at all. everything felt very natural and the pace of this book was realistic. both characters were relatable and it just made me like and understand them even more. if you like any of the tropes mentioned above i’d definitely recommend this to you!
thank you sunny babe pr for this e-arc! :)
March 20, 2024
The Closer
C. Aimee Hyde
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and C. Aimee Hyde for providing me with an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have to be honest I am typically a hockey romance girlie but I am so glad I grabbed up this book when I had the chance.
The relationship between Tytus and Sarah felt so realistic and it was hard to not route for them to find their way through everything that was going on and be able to develop their relationship to the next level. It is also amazing to see how they both broke their own personal rules for each other because of their instant connection.
I loved the way that we were given the opportunity to be in the world of both professions in this book. I am not a huge baseball fan so this gave me some insight that I didn’t even know I was missing into that world. I am a lover of Broadway and so to get to see Sarah’s life as she plays a lead role was amazing.
Also the work that both of these characters go through to be the best of themselves for each other is amazing. Tytus understandably takes a step back when something happens that changes him which he needed time for and Sarah reacts rather understandably in facing some insecurity and trying to understand if their relationship will hit that next step.
The slow burn and the wild ride that was these two trying to work their way into a relationship was amazing and I don’t think I could’ve asked for it to be displayed another way.
C. Aimee Hyde
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and C. Aimee Hyde for providing me with an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have to be honest I am typically a hockey romance girlie but I am so glad I grabbed up this book when I had the chance.
The relationship between Tytus and Sarah felt so realistic and it was hard to not route for them to find their way through everything that was going on and be able to develop their relationship to the next level. It is also amazing to see how they both broke their own personal rules for each other because of their instant connection.
I loved the way that we were given the opportunity to be in the world of both professions in this book. I am not a huge baseball fan so this gave me some insight that I didn’t even know I was missing into that world. I am a lover of Broadway and so to get to see Sarah’s life as she plays a lead role was amazing.
Also the work that both of these characters go through to be the best of themselves for each other is amazing. Tytus understandably takes a step back when something happens that changes him which he needed time for and Sarah reacts rather understandably in facing some insecurity and trying to understand if their relationship will hit that next step.
The slow burn and the wild ride that was these two trying to work their way into a relationship was amazing and I don’t think I could’ve asked for it to be displayed another way.
March 20, 2024
My Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐
My Spice Rating: 2.5/5 🌶️
What you’ll find:
- Sports Romance
- Slow Burn
- He Falls First
- Baseball Player & Broadway Star
- Opposites Attract
- Found Family
- Anxiety Rep
- Dual POV (third person)
The Closer combines two things I love—baseball and Broadway. I enjoyed Tytus and Sarah's love story. The characters are well-developed, likable, and relatable. Tytus and Sarah are both focused on their careers and have no time for a relationship, but when they meet, they feel an undeniable attraction. This is a slower burn, but there are some steamy scenes. Although Sarah makes it clear she wants nothing to do with athletes, Tytus shows her he is worth it. Both characters have personal insecurities about their careers and relationships, leading to an emotional journey of growth, acceptance, and triumph. I loved how Tytus put in the work and went to therapy to ensure he was ready to be the best version of himself in life and their relationship. The way Tytus and Sarah support each other is beautiful. They had ups and downs, but their relationship worked because they tried to communicate and work through their conflicts. The story is well-written, and I found myself genuinely invested. I look forward to reading more from the author.
Thanks to C. Aimee Hyde and Sunny Babe PR for providing a copy for my review. Opinions expressed are my own.
My Spice Rating: 2.5/5 🌶️
What you’ll find:
- Sports Romance
- Slow Burn
- He Falls First
- Baseball Player & Broadway Star
- Opposites Attract
- Found Family
- Anxiety Rep
- Dual POV (third person)
The Closer combines two things I love—baseball and Broadway. I enjoyed Tytus and Sarah's love story. The characters are well-developed, likable, and relatable. Tytus and Sarah are both focused on their careers and have no time for a relationship, but when they meet, they feel an undeniable attraction. This is a slower burn, but there are some steamy scenes. Although Sarah makes it clear she wants nothing to do with athletes, Tytus shows her he is worth it. Both characters have personal insecurities about their careers and relationships, leading to an emotional journey of growth, acceptance, and triumph. I loved how Tytus put in the work and went to therapy to ensure he was ready to be the best version of himself in life and their relationship. The way Tytus and Sarah support each other is beautiful. They had ups and downs, but their relationship worked because they tried to communicate and work through their conflicts. The story is well-written, and I found myself genuinely invested. I look forward to reading more from the author.
Thanks to C. Aimee Hyde and Sunny Babe PR for providing a copy for my review. Opinions expressed are my own.
April 10, 2024
First of all thank you C. Aimee Hyde and Sunnybabepr for my arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first ever sports romance and I was very excited for it and had high hopes. Unfortunately, although it was a cute book, it was just not the book for me for various reasons.
I am not a big fan of 3rd person POV so that put me off for most of the story. I had a hard time connecting with the characters in this way. And I desperately wanted to connect with them. I felt like the book felt fast paced.
The Closer is an insta-love story which is not my favorite, but it worked for them and the story. Even-though I felt there wasn't really a read foundation to their connection and relationship. That kept the characters in a constant push and pull, I was tired of it and just wanted to slap some sense into the characters.
It did have some good aspects. Like the characters and the story had communication and a very obvious healing journey + effort from the characters to make their relationship stronger and work.
I think C. Aimee Hyde did good for a debut novel and with some work future books will be amazing. It wasn't a bad book or bad writing, just not the type of story I connect with.
This was my first ever sports romance and I was very excited for it and had high hopes. Unfortunately, although it was a cute book, it was just not the book for me for various reasons.
I am not a big fan of 3rd person POV so that put me off for most of the story. I had a hard time connecting with the characters in this way. And I desperately wanted to connect with them. I felt like the book felt fast paced.
The Closer is an insta-love story which is not my favorite, but it worked for them and the story. Even-though I felt there wasn't really a read foundation to their connection and relationship. That kept the characters in a constant push and pull, I was tired of it and just wanted to slap some sense into the characters.
It did have some good aspects. Like the characters and the story had communication and a very obvious healing journey + effort from the characters to make their relationship stronger and work.
I think C. Aimee Hyde did good for a debut novel and with some work future books will be amazing. It wasn't a bad book or bad writing, just not the type of story I connect with.
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