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Kitt's Harbor #2
Home Run Heart: A Sweet Second Chance Baseball RomCom
There have only ever been two things that Brooks Alden can say he truly baseball and Nora Foster, the girl he dated in high school.
Returning home in the off-season gives Brooks an opportunity he never thought he’d get a second chance encounter with a now-divorced Nora. Suddenly, the hometown he’s avoided for so long becomes a place to make new memories together. They make a bargain that entails spending five Fridays sharing new experiences in the hopes that Brooks will discover that there's more to life than baseball, while also helping Nora cope with the resulting grief of her divorce and the demands of single motherhood.
In this second chance, sweet romantic comedy, Brooks and Nora must find the courage to discover what makes them happy and learn what it feels like to have their hearts hit a home run.
Home Run Heart is a closed-door, second chance baseball romcom that delivers on all the swoon without the spice. Books in the Kitt’s Harbor series are stand-alone novels but might be best enjoyed if read in order.
Returning home in the off-season gives Brooks an opportunity he never thought he’d get a second chance encounter with a now-divorced Nora. Suddenly, the hometown he’s avoided for so long becomes a place to make new memories together. They make a bargain that entails spending five Fridays sharing new experiences in the hopes that Brooks will discover that there's more to life than baseball, while also helping Nora cope with the resulting grief of her divorce and the demands of single motherhood.
In this second chance, sweet romantic comedy, Brooks and Nora must find the courage to discover what makes them happy and learn what it feels like to have their hearts hit a home run.
Home Run Heart is a closed-door, second chance baseball romcom that delivers on all the swoon without the spice. Books in the Kitt’s Harbor series are stand-alone novels but might be best enjoyed if read in order.
347 pages, Paperback
Published October 19, 2024
127 people are currently reading
1355 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Gardiner
8 books399 followersHailey Gardiner writes cheeky, sweet romantic comedies in an effort to finally put her wildly active imagination to good use. Hailey is a master at quoting movies, will eat any dessert that’s salted, and loves raising two book-loving boys with her husband.
www.haileygardiner.com
@authorhaileygardiner
www.haileygardiner.com
@authorhaileygardiner
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
October 23, 2024
Thank you to the author for an eARC.
IN LOVE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
You know what really makes me smitten? Second chance romances written like this. Good heavens y’all. IT WAS SO GOOD. What I loved most, is that this story was low on the drama and high on the romance. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I’m in the mood for drama, but what I crave other times is a slow, steady, soft and tender romance. If you need the soft and sweet right now, READ THIS BOOK.
I adored Brooks and Nora (hello dual POV, I love you). I loved the focus on therapy and working through past trauma and high pressure life styles and learning to balance what needs to be done and what you can do for yourself. There were many deep conversations and I am always looking for true communication and I liked seeing those moments between Brooks and Nora. And also, Ollie?? He was so precious!! And let it be known I was a puddle on the ground anytime he and Brooks interacted. PUDDLE.
This is a very fast paced read and will absolutely suck you in. I am now demanding that more closed door baseball romances because this is a niche I didn’t know I needed. I am such a fan girl of Hailey Gardiner’s writing and story telling abilities. Do not skip out on her books.
Overall audience notes:
- Sports romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Content Warnings: emotionally abusive father, divorce and infidelity (recounted)
IN LOVE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
You know what really makes me smitten? Second chance romances written like this. Good heavens y’all. IT WAS SO GOOD. What I loved most, is that this story was low on the drama and high on the romance. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I’m in the mood for drama, but what I crave other times is a slow, steady, soft and tender romance. If you need the soft and sweet right now, READ THIS BOOK.
I adored Brooks and Nora (hello dual POV, I love you). I loved the focus on therapy and working through past trauma and high pressure life styles and learning to balance what needs to be done and what you can do for yourself. There were many deep conversations and I am always looking for true communication and I liked seeing those moments between Brooks and Nora. And also, Ollie?? He was so precious!! And let it be known I was a puddle on the ground anytime he and Brooks interacted. PUDDLE.
This is a very fast paced read and will absolutely suck you in. I am now demanding that more closed door baseball romances because this is a niche I didn’t know I needed. I am such a fan girl of Hailey Gardiner’s writing and story telling abilities. Do not skip out on her books.
Overall audience notes:
- Sports romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Content Warnings: emotionally abusive father, divorce and infidelity (recounted)
January 23, 2025
This story is second-chance sweetness for a single mom and the baseball player who mistakenly let her go—and I loved every minute! The healing, the building trust, therapy being represented in such a down-to-earth way, and amazing teammates, family, and friends make this read a total win.
TW: Manipulative parent, Divorce/cheating ex (past), PPD (past)
TW: Manipulative parent, Divorce/cheating ex (past), PPD (past)
October 23, 2024
If you’ve followed me for a little bit, you’ll know I’m @authorhaileygardiner’s biggest fan.🥇 Her writing just makes sense to my brain and I connect with it no matter what the story is about. Home Run Heart *might* be my favorite book yet. 🤩
Synopsis: Brooks and Nora were always intended to be high school sweethearts. That is until Brooks chose pursuing his MLB career over Nora. Now nearly a decade later, Nora is fresh off a messy divorce, navigating her grief and being a single mom and Brooks is home for the offseason struggling with his own stuff. After a little help from her friends, Nora agrees to a deal giving Brooks five dates to help him discover who he is outside of baseball on given their connection a second chance to soar.
Nora girl, I related to you so hard! Well, maybe not the divorce aspect but the motherhood part was so real for me. I could see myself in her and it only made me appreciate her loving and hardworking nature that much more.
Brooks was an absolute sweetheart. He jumped off the page!! He was all in for Nora and so ready to make the necessary effort with Nora AND with Ollie right from the start. I couldn’t believe some of the things he did!! 🥹
Home Run Heart is clearly a sports romance, but because it takes place in the offseason, playing baseball isn’t a main focus and I loved that so much! I felt like I got more mileage out of the characters with Brooks being able to focus on his goals outside of baseball (aka Nora and Ollie 🤭). But don’t get me wrong, the baseball vibes are still there!!
Obviously, I enjoyed this one! Hailey writes some of the best closed door romance books that are so full of special moments and hard things and moments that’ll make you giggle. It’s a 5 ⭐️ for me!! 🫶🏼
Synopsis: Brooks and Nora were always intended to be high school sweethearts. That is until Brooks chose pursuing his MLB career over Nora. Now nearly a decade later, Nora is fresh off a messy divorce, navigating her grief and being a single mom and Brooks is home for the offseason struggling with his own stuff. After a little help from her friends, Nora agrees to a deal giving Brooks five dates to help him discover who he is outside of baseball on given their connection a second chance to soar.
Nora girl, I related to you so hard! Well, maybe not the divorce aspect but the motherhood part was so real for me. I could see myself in her and it only made me appreciate her loving and hardworking nature that much more.
Brooks was an absolute sweetheart. He jumped off the page!! He was all in for Nora and so ready to make the necessary effort with Nora AND with Ollie right from the start. I couldn’t believe some of the things he did!! 🥹
Home Run Heart is clearly a sports romance, but because it takes place in the offseason, playing baseball isn’t a main focus and I loved that so much! I felt like I got more mileage out of the characters with Brooks being able to focus on his goals outside of baseball (aka Nora and Ollie 🤭). But don’t get me wrong, the baseball vibes are still there!!
Obviously, I enjoyed this one! Hailey writes some of the best closed door romance books that are so full of special moments and hard things and moments that’ll make you giggle. It’s a 5 ⭐️ for me!! 🫶🏼
September 15, 2024
Sweet. Swoony. Perfection.
February 21, 2025
I found this author after hearing about her sudden unexpected passing. The book wasn’t perfect but the whole story was soft and sweet and so lovely. Very little drama and that’s just what I wanted. A closed door romance that left me so giddy. I will definitely be reading more of her work
April 3, 2025
So cute! ❤️⚾️
November 22, 2024
“i think my list of favorite things now only consists of one thing…brooks alden.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
same nora big same. brooks and nora just had me giggling, swooning, and blushing all over the place. i loved everything about their story!! the communication, the side characters, the mental health rep, the positive relationships, the character development? gosh it was just all so good and yes i am already thinking about rereading it!!!!
HRH is such a cozy fall read with the small town harbor & diner vibes, it was perfect for the season! it also has some of my most favorite tropes…single parent, second chance, AND baseball romance? it’s hard to beat a swoony MMC who can rock some baseball pants and brooks easily has that title!!! this is of course a closed door romance but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few soul wrenching kisses because goodness me 🤭
anyways as always big thank you to for the opportunity to read and review home run heart early! be sure to go check this one out on october 23rd!!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
same nora big same. brooks and nora just had me giggling, swooning, and blushing all over the place. i loved everything about their story!! the communication, the side characters, the mental health rep, the positive relationships, the character development? gosh it was just all so good and yes i am already thinking about rereading it!!!!
HRH is such a cozy fall read with the small town harbor & diner vibes, it was perfect for the season! it also has some of my most favorite tropes…single parent, second chance, AND baseball romance? it’s hard to beat a swoony MMC who can rock some baseball pants and brooks easily has that title!!! this is of course a closed door romance but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few soul wrenching kisses because goodness me 🤭
anyways as always big thank you to for the opportunity to read and review home run heart early! be sure to go check this one out on october 23rd!!!
January 27, 2025
Second chance . Baseball. So so good
October 17, 2024
Genre: sports romance
Content: some innuendo, makeouts, infrequent mild language
Oh my gosh, this might be new favorite @authorhaileygardiner book. This second chance romance is aptly named because it is full of SO MUCH heart! At the end of high school, Brooks chose pro baseball over Nora. Years later, when he runs into her in his hometown, he realizes she’s no longer married. Thanks to an intervention by one of Nora’s employees/friends and then again by their siblings, the two begin communicating again.
Nora— Don’t we all love a strong woman? That is Nora! She is so dedicated, so hardworking, and doing all she can to heal from her past heartbreaks.
Brooks— THIS MAN IS A WALKING GREEN FLAG. The way he steps up to take care of Nora and Ollie, the way he interacts with Ollie, all of it had me melting!!! 🫠
I loved the positive therapy rep and the communicating like adults that took place in the story. Yes, yes, yes to all of it 👏🏻
This one releases 10/23! You won’t want to miss it!!!
Favorite Quotes:
😂 Before I know it, I've got a warm brookie in my hand, a half-brownie, half chocolate chip cookie creation wrapped in a paper bag with Brooks' face on it.
Twist my arm.
Someone (not me) should keep the wrapper. He looks too good to throw away.
😘 "I'll trade you for it."
I'm intrigued. Are kisses on the table?
Because looking over at her wearing my hat makes me suddenly ravenous. We were so inexperienced when we were teenagers, but I can still remember how sweet she tasted. I'll bet she'd taste just as good now.
I'd love a chance to test this theory.
😏 "Thank you for helping me broaden my horizons. Be thinking of more new things you want to try with me." Nora's mouth curves up, and I realize how that sounded. "I didn't mean it like that."
"Of course not."
"But, I mean, if you want to try new things with me like that, I wouldn't say no...""Claire?" Nora chokes out. "Your brother says it's past his bedtime."
I lower my lips to her ear and whisper.
"See, there you are talking about bed-time. If I didn't know better, Nora, I'd think you were trying to turn our arrangement into something entirely inappropriate."
❤️🩹 "I think those moments where you allow yourself to really process your grief are necessary. They're so painful, but that's what you need sometimes, you know? You have to let yourself grieve the full weight of what you've lost."
😍 "You're terrible," I say, tossing my hair out of my eyes to look up at him…. He smiles at me, his eyes dipping to my mouth as he loosens his grip on my elbows. "You like it. Or at least, you used to."
Mercy me. I still do.
💋 "You'd kiss me at a game?" Nora says with a tilted smile. "In front of all those people?"
"I'd kiss you anywhere."
💙 Life with Nora will be filled with diapers and dishwashing, wins and losses, highs and lows, mistakes and healing. A tapestry of both remarkable and mundane moments woven together to create something safe, deeply fulfilling and uniquely ours.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own. No positive review was required.
Content: some innuendo, makeouts, infrequent mild language
Oh my gosh, this might be new favorite @authorhaileygardiner book. This second chance romance is aptly named because it is full of SO MUCH heart! At the end of high school, Brooks chose pro baseball over Nora. Years later, when he runs into her in his hometown, he realizes she’s no longer married. Thanks to an intervention by one of Nora’s employees/friends and then again by their siblings, the two begin communicating again.
Nora— Don’t we all love a strong woman? That is Nora! She is so dedicated, so hardworking, and doing all she can to heal from her past heartbreaks.
Brooks— THIS MAN IS A WALKING GREEN FLAG. The way he steps up to take care of Nora and Ollie, the way he interacts with Ollie, all of it had me melting!!! 🫠
I loved the positive therapy rep and the communicating like adults that took place in the story. Yes, yes, yes to all of it 👏🏻
This one releases 10/23! You won’t want to miss it!!!
Favorite Quotes:
😂 Before I know it, I've got a warm brookie in my hand, a half-brownie, half chocolate chip cookie creation wrapped in a paper bag with Brooks' face on it.
Twist my arm.
Someone (not me) should keep the wrapper. He looks too good to throw away.
😘 "I'll trade you for it."
I'm intrigued. Are kisses on the table?
Because looking over at her wearing my hat makes me suddenly ravenous. We were so inexperienced when we were teenagers, but I can still remember how sweet she tasted. I'll bet she'd taste just as good now.
I'd love a chance to test this theory.
😏 "Thank you for helping me broaden my horizons. Be thinking of more new things you want to try with me." Nora's mouth curves up, and I realize how that sounded. "I didn't mean it like that."
"Of course not."
"But, I mean, if you want to try new things with me like that, I wouldn't say no...""Claire?" Nora chokes out. "Your brother says it's past his bedtime."
I lower my lips to her ear and whisper.
"See, there you are talking about bed-time. If I didn't know better, Nora, I'd think you were trying to turn our arrangement into something entirely inappropriate."
❤️🩹 "I think those moments where you allow yourself to really process your grief are necessary. They're so painful, but that's what you need sometimes, you know? You have to let yourself grieve the full weight of what you've lost."
😍 "You're terrible," I say, tossing my hair out of my eyes to look up at him…. He smiles at me, his eyes dipping to my mouth as he loosens his grip on my elbows. "You like it. Or at least, you used to."
Mercy me. I still do.
💋 "You'd kiss me at a game?" Nora says with a tilted smile. "In front of all those people?"
"I'd kiss you anywhere."
💙 Life with Nora will be filled with diapers and dishwashing, wins and losses, highs and lows, mistakes and healing. A tapestry of both remarkable and mundane moments woven together to create something safe, deeply fulfilling and uniquely ours.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own. No positive review was required.
February 22, 2025
HOME RUN HEART
(Kitt’s Harbor #2)
by: Hailey Gardiner
@authorhaileygardiner
-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~There have only ever been two things that Brooks Alden can say he truly baseball and Nora Foster, the girl he dated in high school...
“I’ll be whatever you need me to be.”
-Second book read to honor Hailey: Home Run Heart. This is an adorable closed-door, second chance baseball romcom that delivers on all the swoon without any of the spice!Returning back to Kitt’s Harbor, a charming coastal town on the Olympic Peninsula. It is a story full of so much heart! But also, this dear story tenderly shows the importance of learning to trust, facing your fears and falling in love all over again.
-This story is lots of fun! It has adventure, sweet character growth, humor, swoony moments, and engaging banter. I loved watching the dear main characters want to be the very best they could be for their people- despite hard struggles in various stages of life. I loved watching how they make communication be completely open and honest straight from the start. Watching them have hard conversations, not shy away about their fears, to seeing their relationship grow into such a strong friendship with a deep understanding and appreciation of one another was a home run. Seeing these characters overcome so much and find happiness along the way, while taking courage to discover what makes them happy and learn what it feels like to have their hearts hit a home run. This story lovingly encourages all of us to be our best selves so we can show up for those we love dearly. ••Friends, this dear story is worth the read!📚🤍✨💙😍
“Every strike brings you closer to the next home run.”
•Content: some innuendo, makeouts, infrequent mild language, Manipulative parent, Divorce/cheating ex (past),
PPD (past).
“You can’t worry about getting things perfect here. That’s the nature of making something with your hands. It’s going to have imperfections and flaws, but that’s what gives it character. That’s what makes it unique.”
#homerunheart
#authorhaileygardiner
#rememberinghaileygardiner
#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads
(Kitt’s Harbor #2)
by: Hailey Gardiner
@authorhaileygardiner
-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~There have only ever been two things that Brooks Alden can say he truly baseball and Nora Foster, the girl he dated in high school...
“I’ll be whatever you need me to be.”
-Second book read to honor Hailey: Home Run Heart. This is an adorable closed-door, second chance baseball romcom that delivers on all the swoon without any of the spice!Returning back to Kitt’s Harbor, a charming coastal town on the Olympic Peninsula. It is a story full of so much heart! But also, this dear story tenderly shows the importance of learning to trust, facing your fears and falling in love all over again.
-This story is lots of fun! It has adventure, sweet character growth, humor, swoony moments, and engaging banter. I loved watching the dear main characters want to be the very best they could be for their people- despite hard struggles in various stages of life. I loved watching how they make communication be completely open and honest straight from the start. Watching them have hard conversations, not shy away about their fears, to seeing their relationship grow into such a strong friendship with a deep understanding and appreciation of one another was a home run. Seeing these characters overcome so much and find happiness along the way, while taking courage to discover what makes them happy and learn what it feels like to have their hearts hit a home run. This story lovingly encourages all of us to be our best selves so we can show up for those we love dearly. ••Friends, this dear story is worth the read!📚🤍✨💙😍
“Every strike brings you closer to the next home run.”
•Content: some innuendo, makeouts, infrequent mild language, Manipulative parent, Divorce/cheating ex (past),
PPD (past).
“You can’t worry about getting things perfect here. That’s the nature of making something with your hands. It’s going to have imperfections and flaws, but that’s what gives it character. That’s what makes it unique.”
#homerunheart
#authorhaileygardiner
#rememberinghaileygardiner
#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads
November 6, 2024
“We meander down the porch steps, and he glances over at me with a smile that nearly makes me trip and fall flat on my face.”
I really fell in love with baseball this season, and I realllllly miss watching the games with my family. So….when I saw this book, the title and gorgeous cover, I knew I needed it in my life! I’m so glad I read it! I enjoyed it very much!
This is the sweetest second chance romance that had me smiling, laughing, and awing so dang much! Nora and Brooks are the cutest! I love them! Their story touched my heart and just made me happy!
Read for:
🤍Baseball!
🤍High school sweet hearts
🤍Small town in PNW
🤍Dreamy Pro baseball player MMC
🤍Adorable and lovable FMC
🤍Family
🤍single mom
🤍heart healing romance
🤍Ollie, the cutest little two year old
This story encompasses exactly why I read for those happily ever afters! Seeing characters overcome so much and find happiness gets me every single time! What I loved about Nora and Brooks is that they worked together to overcome so much and heal their hearts! Their journey to happiness was inspiring! I loved this book, and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!!!
.
.
.
Content: very mild innuendo, 2 Bible swears, kisses only, divorce
I really fell in love with baseball this season, and I realllllly miss watching the games with my family. So….when I saw this book, the title and gorgeous cover, I knew I needed it in my life! I’m so glad I read it! I enjoyed it very much!
This is the sweetest second chance romance that had me smiling, laughing, and awing so dang much! Nora and Brooks are the cutest! I love them! Their story touched my heart and just made me happy!
Read for:
🤍Baseball!
🤍High school sweet hearts
🤍Small town in PNW
🤍Dreamy Pro baseball player MMC
🤍Adorable and lovable FMC
🤍Family
🤍single mom
🤍heart healing romance
🤍Ollie, the cutest little two year old
This story encompasses exactly why I read for those happily ever afters! Seeing characters overcome so much and find happiness gets me every single time! What I loved about Nora and Brooks is that they worked together to overcome so much and heal their hearts! Their journey to happiness was inspiring! I loved this book, and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!!!
.
.
.
Content: very mild innuendo, 2 Bible swears, kisses only, divorce
November 11, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
Not much to say on this. It’s an okay book with cringy dialogue and bland characters. The main bright spot was the proposal scene (it was absolutely adorable). The child was 2 years old and spoke mostly in full sentences which, in my opinion, is super unrealistic and slightly bugged me. I do think the couple had great communication throughout the entire book which didn’t lead to a silly third-act break up, so that is also a plus.
Not much to say on this. It’s an okay book with cringy dialogue and bland characters. The main bright spot was the proposal scene (it was absolutely adorable). The child was 2 years old and spoke mostly in full sentences which, in my opinion, is super unrealistic and slightly bugged me. I do think the couple had great communication throughout the entire book which didn’t lead to a silly third-act break up, so that is also a plus.
February 27, 2025
Gobbled up this one just like the last! So much cuteness! I love a nice dual POV. The second-chance romance was swoon worthy, and I’m a big fan of the way the author has her characters have real conversations about the past and their current intentions etc. I also loved that it was a sports romance with ACTUAL SPORTS IN IT.
October 21, 2024
absolute sweet and swoony perfection. Nora and brooks had the most heartwarming, beautiful, second chance romance and ollie was the most adorable addition to the story. plus who doesn’t love baseball players and baseball pants? ⚾️🍂🤍
February 22, 2025
I picked up this book after seeing many of the authors I follow sharing about Hailey’s passing. There was a day on Instagram that was dedicated to sharing her work in order to help her husband and children financially. I love sports romances and I wish I’d known about her books sooner. My heart aches for her family and their loss.
This book was all things sweet. A refreshing, happy read.
This book was all things sweet. A refreshing, happy read.
November 25, 2025
4.5⭐️
Second chance romance + single mom + baseball???? Say less 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
📖: 1st person, dual POV
🌶️: kisses only, mild innuendo
🤬: no foul language
⚠️: divorce (past, but rehashed), manipulative/narcissistic parent, parent abandonment
Second chance romance + single mom + baseball???? Say less 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
📖: 1st person, dual POV
🌶️: kisses only, mild innuendo
🤬: no foul language
⚠️: divorce (past, but rehashed), manipulative/narcissistic parent, parent abandonment
April 7, 2025
I absolutely loved and adored this book. Nora and Brookie are the cutest and will always have a special place in my heart 🫶🏻
July 19, 2025
I loved this little duology but this was definitely my favorite. I loved Nora and Brooks’ relationship.
I vote more baseball romances. 🥰
I vote more baseball romances. 🥰
April 8, 2025
Such a fun cute read! 💙⚾️
November 24, 2024
I enjoyed it but it was mid
May 28, 2025
It's a cute story of second chance love.
October 17, 2024
Ahh! This book was just so cute and I was beyond excited to read it. The first book was so much fun and I knew that Nora’s book was going to be great! Home Run Heart is the second book in Hailey Gardiner Kitt’s Harbor series.
Nora was such a wonderful main character. I really felt for her as she tried to make sense of her life and care for her son, Ollie. I loved how real Nora felt and how she grew throughout the book. She was scared to open herself up to Brooks but it was sweet to read about their interactions. She was brave with Brooks and he helped her be herself again.
Brooks was just the sweetest and I loved him from the beginning. He could be vulnerable with Nora. He was struggling with his own expectations and fears, and it was cool to read about his growth. He truly cared for Nora and was trying to get to know her again.
Both of these characters felt real and I loved reading about their journey. They were learning to be brave in different ways and not allow their fears to lead them. The romance was cute and I loved their Friday night experiences. It was more of a slow burn but it fit them as they tried to see if a relationship could work again. Ollie was just the sweetest and his interactions with Brooks was just perfect.
I would totally recommend Home Run Heart. I loved everything about it! I also loved getting to see old characters, Nora’s family is the best, and getting to meet new characters. There are so many stories that need to be told. Home Run Heart is a clean contemporary romance.
Book Highlights:
Sports romance
Friday night dates
Single mom
Second chance romance
Pottery
Learning to heal
Family
Siblings
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Nora was such a wonderful main character. I really felt for her as she tried to make sense of her life and care for her son, Ollie. I loved how real Nora felt and how she grew throughout the book. She was scared to open herself up to Brooks but it was sweet to read about their interactions. She was brave with Brooks and he helped her be herself again.
Brooks was just the sweetest and I loved him from the beginning. He could be vulnerable with Nora. He was struggling with his own expectations and fears, and it was cool to read about his growth. He truly cared for Nora and was trying to get to know her again.
Both of these characters felt real and I loved reading about their journey. They were learning to be brave in different ways and not allow their fears to lead them. The romance was cute and I loved their Friday night experiences. It was more of a slow burn but it fit them as they tried to see if a relationship could work again. Ollie was just the sweetest and his interactions with Brooks was just perfect.
I would totally recommend Home Run Heart. I loved everything about it! I also loved getting to see old characters, Nora’s family is the best, and getting to meet new characters. There are so many stories that need to be told. Home Run Heart is a clean contemporary romance.
Book Highlights:
Sports romance
Friday night dates
Single mom
Second chance romance
Pottery
Learning to heal
Family
Siblings
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
October 26, 2024
This book is the cutest thing I’ve ever read.
Y’all the amount of just complete SWOONING I did while reading this book. This has all the sweet swoony moments and you will fall in love with Brooks Alden when you read this book. Watching him pursue Nora was the most precious thing. “I’ll be whatever you want me to be Nora.” He was EVERYTHING. He loved her not just in words but also in action and also loved her son as his own.
And Nora is so fierce and strong and I loved watching her recognize that strength in herself. Brooks, and everyone around her, knew how strong she was but I loved the moments where she realized her strength and stood up for herself. She is such a role model and the most relatable person. You will especially find her relatable if you’re a mom or have been through a divorce.
I loved how honest and real these two were with each other. There were no games or miscommunication. They were upfront from the beginning and held each other accountable in that honesty. I loved how they both made each other better versions of themselves. And y’all the chemistry! The first kiss-I died. The chemistry and tension in this one was amazing. I also loved how we got glimpses of their high school relationship as they got to know each other again and reminisced about the past. You could really feel the sweetness and innocence of young love in those moments.
While this is a baseball romance, it takes place largely in the off season which was fun (and makes it perfect for fall). There was also some good therapy/mental health rep too.
If you can’t tell, I adored this book so much and I highly suggest you pick it up so you can feel all the swoony feelings!
This is a closed door romance with no language and mild innuendo.
Content Warnings: divorce, postpartum depression (brief mention)
Y’all the amount of just complete SWOONING I did while reading this book. This has all the sweet swoony moments and you will fall in love with Brooks Alden when you read this book. Watching him pursue Nora was the most precious thing. “I’ll be whatever you want me to be Nora.” He was EVERYTHING. He loved her not just in words but also in action and also loved her son as his own.
And Nora is so fierce and strong and I loved watching her recognize that strength in herself. Brooks, and everyone around her, knew how strong she was but I loved the moments where she realized her strength and stood up for herself. She is such a role model and the most relatable person. You will especially find her relatable if you’re a mom or have been through a divorce.
I loved how honest and real these two were with each other. There were no games or miscommunication. They were upfront from the beginning and held each other accountable in that honesty. I loved how they both made each other better versions of themselves. And y’all the chemistry! The first kiss-I died. The chemistry and tension in this one was amazing. I also loved how we got glimpses of their high school relationship as they got to know each other again and reminisced about the past. You could really feel the sweetness and innocence of young love in those moments.
While this is a baseball romance, it takes place largely in the off season which was fun (and makes it perfect for fall). There was also some good therapy/mental health rep too.
If you can’t tell, I adored this book so much and I highly suggest you pick it up so you can feel all the swoony feelings!
This is a closed door romance with no language and mild innuendo.
Content Warnings: divorce, postpartum depression (brief mention)
October 23, 2024
"There have been only two things I can say I have truly loved in my life: baseball and Nora Foster."
Returning home in the off-season gives Brooks an opportunity he never thought he’d get, a second chance encounter with a now-divorced Nora. Suddenly, the hometown he’s avoided for so long becomes a place to make new memories together. They make a bargain that entails spending five Fridays sharing new experiences in the hopes that Brooks will discover that there's more to life than baseball, while also helping Nora cope with the resulting grief of her divorce and the demands of single motherhood.
Doing the five Fridays together definitely had positive effects on both Brooks and Nora. He wanted to experience what life had to offer aside from baseball and learn to embrace his imperfections. I loved the steps that he took to be a better person including therapy once he made the decision to be in Nora and her son Ollie's life.
Nora had only ever known the diner where she worked and had ceramics as a hobby on the side. Seeing her bring her artistry out into the world for other people to see was beautiful. It also made for some delicious moments between her and Brooks. I loved the tension in the ceramics workshop and in her home studio 🤭
The fact that they decided to be honest with each other from the onset was instrumental when adversity came knocking. They both wanted to make it work so bad and definitely earned those heartwarming moments at the end.
Thank you so much to the author for an ARC. I loved this story and can't wait for more from Hailey!
Rating: 4.5⭐
Steam level: 1🌶️ Kissing only
Returning home in the off-season gives Brooks an opportunity he never thought he’d get, a second chance encounter with a now-divorced Nora. Suddenly, the hometown he’s avoided for so long becomes a place to make new memories together. They make a bargain that entails spending five Fridays sharing new experiences in the hopes that Brooks will discover that there's more to life than baseball, while also helping Nora cope with the resulting grief of her divorce and the demands of single motherhood.
Doing the five Fridays together definitely had positive effects on both Brooks and Nora. He wanted to experience what life had to offer aside from baseball and learn to embrace his imperfections. I loved the steps that he took to be a better person including therapy once he made the decision to be in Nora and her son Ollie's life.
Nora had only ever known the diner where she worked and had ceramics as a hobby on the side. Seeing her bring her artistry out into the world for other people to see was beautiful. It also made for some delicious moments between her and Brooks. I loved the tension in the ceramics workshop and in her home studio 🤭
The fact that they decided to be honest with each other from the onset was instrumental when adversity came knocking. They both wanted to make it work so bad and definitely earned those heartwarming moments at the end.
Thank you so much to the author for an ARC. I loved this story and can't wait for more from Hailey!
Rating: 4.5⭐
Steam level: 1🌶️ Kissing only
October 24, 2024
@authorhaileygardiner has delivered a breathtakingly tender romance in Home Run Heart! I almost never cry in books and I happy cried t h r e e different times! All this mixed with laugh out loud humor is *chef’s kiss* perfection!
Nora and Brooks were high school sweethearts with plans for a future together. They were torn apart by Brooks’ manipulative father who made him believe he had to leave everything and everyone behind to pursue his dream of professional baseball.
Brooks begins realizing that his life feels hollow and baseball won’t last forever. A chance run-in with Nora leads to spending weekends in his hometown and asking Nora to try a new activity with him each week.
They both undergo the most beautiful character arcs. Brooks realizes the terrible effect his father has had on his life and participates in therapy to break the cycle.
Nora works through the trauma and trust issues she has after Brooks left her behind and then having an unfaithful husband.
They work through everything together with honesty, compassion, and understanding. There are countless tender moments between them, and as Brooks forms a relationship with her son. This is honestly one of the most beautiful relationships I’ve ever read!
Read for:
Sports romance
Second chance
Single mom
Modern day class difference
Dual POV
Therapy rep
Mutual pining
Brooks with Ollie 🫠🫠🫠
Content: Mild innuendo. Making out.
Possible triggers: history of unfaithful spouse and divorce, mentions of postpartum depression, manipulative parent
Many thanks to the author for a gifted copy of this book. Opinions are always my own.
Nora and Brooks were high school sweethearts with plans for a future together. They were torn apart by Brooks’ manipulative father who made him believe he had to leave everything and everyone behind to pursue his dream of professional baseball.
Brooks begins realizing that his life feels hollow and baseball won’t last forever. A chance run-in with Nora leads to spending weekends in his hometown and asking Nora to try a new activity with him each week.
They both undergo the most beautiful character arcs. Brooks realizes the terrible effect his father has had on his life and participates in therapy to break the cycle.
Nora works through the trauma and trust issues she has after Brooks left her behind and then having an unfaithful husband.
They work through everything together with honesty, compassion, and understanding. There are countless tender moments between them, and as Brooks forms a relationship with her son. This is honestly one of the most beautiful relationships I’ve ever read!
Read for:
Sports romance
Second chance
Single mom
Modern day class difference
Dual POV
Therapy rep
Mutual pining
Brooks with Ollie 🫠🫠🫠
Content: Mild innuendo. Making out.
Possible triggers: history of unfaithful spouse and divorce, mentions of postpartum depression, manipulative parent
Many thanks to the author for a gifted copy of this book. Opinions are always my own.
December 3, 2024
I loved this book!! This was my first book that I've read by Hailey and it will not be my last! I loved the banter, the family dynamics, the relatable characters and the beautiful love story.
Nora is such a delight to get to know. Her past has not been easy. I admire her courage and work ethic as she builds a life with her son, Ollie. Now she is a single mom working at the same diner she's worked at since high school. She's content but certainly not as happy as she deserves to be. Then Brooks comes back into her life and everything changes. I love how Brooks builds her up and helps Nora see her potential.
Brooks is such an endearing character. You can't help but cheer for him especially in his quest to win back Nora. He's working through his own set of demons as he seeks to find meaning and purpose in his life beyond baseball. As he works to put aside his perfectionism (so relatable!), he finds more joy in his life. I loved how Nora helps ground him and feel worthy of love.
Their second chance romance is simply beautiful. I loved how easily they reconnect and how well they fit together. And seeing Brooks with Ollie melts my heart. While both Brooks and Nora have a lot of fear about the future, they also find ways to rely on each other and share their fears with each other. I appreciated their communication as they built a new chapter of life together. Also all the swoony kisses and declarations of love are beautiful!
Loved Nora's pottery and seeing her reach for her dreams with her own pottery company.
A beautiful story! Can't wait to read more in the series!
Nora is such a delight to get to know. Her past has not been easy. I admire her courage and work ethic as she builds a life with her son, Ollie. Now she is a single mom working at the same diner she's worked at since high school. She's content but certainly not as happy as she deserves to be. Then Brooks comes back into her life and everything changes. I love how Brooks builds her up and helps Nora see her potential.
Brooks is such an endearing character. You can't help but cheer for him especially in his quest to win back Nora. He's working through his own set of demons as he seeks to find meaning and purpose in his life beyond baseball. As he works to put aside his perfectionism (so relatable!), he finds more joy in his life. I loved how Nora helps ground him and feel worthy of love.
Their second chance romance is simply beautiful. I loved how easily they reconnect and how well they fit together. And seeing Brooks with Ollie melts my heart. While both Brooks and Nora have a lot of fear about the future, they also find ways to rely on each other and share their fears with each other. I appreciated their communication as they built a new chapter of life together. Also all the swoony kisses and declarations of love are beautiful!
Loved Nora's pottery and seeing her reach for her dreams with her own pottery company.
A beautiful story! Can't wait to read more in the series!
December 7, 2024
Usually, I stray away from baseball romance and stick with hockey. But this time I wanted to pick this book up just because I heard a lot of good things about it and I must say it was a good choice.
This is a second chance, baseball romance and also the FMC is a single mom and her ex-husband used to be their (the MC's) mutual friend and the book includes a whole lot of family meddling at the start.
The storyline (the fallout etc) is your cliche one but the way the author has written the book such that instead of drama, miscommunication and third act breakups, she has written the story in such a way that the MCs communicate, stand their ground, trust each other and handle things maturely. This is something that a lot of authors compromise on to add the dramatic effects to the book. While a bit of drama keeps the readers on their toes, this kind of mature writing needs to be read.
The whole family might have meddled for the most part making the book fun but I really loved Ollie's character and his immediate bond to Brooks. Brooks was a walking green flag. He also takes ownership of his flaws which is refreshing to see. Nora is a strong woman and an amazing mother.
While on the emotional connect side, things were a bit off since we didn't get much time to understand the bond the MCs had before and understand their undying love for each other despite the years that had gone by, we were able to witness them rebuilding their relationship together in a cute and swoony way!
This is a second chance, baseball romance and also the FMC is a single mom and her ex-husband used to be their (the MC's) mutual friend and the book includes a whole lot of family meddling at the start.
The storyline (the fallout etc) is your cliche one but the way the author has written the book such that instead of drama, miscommunication and third act breakups, she has written the story in such a way that the MCs communicate, stand their ground, trust each other and handle things maturely. This is something that a lot of authors compromise on to add the dramatic effects to the book. While a bit of drama keeps the readers on their toes, this kind of mature writing needs to be read.
The whole family might have meddled for the most part making the book fun but I really loved Ollie's character and his immediate bond to Brooks. Brooks was a walking green flag. He also takes ownership of his flaws which is refreshing to see. Nora is a strong woman and an amazing mother.
While on the emotional connect side, things were a bit off since we didn't get much time to understand the bond the MCs had before and understand their undying love for each other despite the years that had gone by, we were able to witness them rebuilding their relationship together in a cute and swoony way!
October 19, 2024
Home Run Heart is the second book in the Kitt's Harbor series. While those who have read the previous book will recognize some familiar characters, I do think this could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
This was such a beautiful story with just the perfect blend of humor, heart, and swoon that I absolutely could not get enough of. Second chance romances are some of my very favorites, and this one was done very well. Nora and Brooks were high school sweethearts until he'd broken things off to pursue professional baseball. Years later, he's living that dream and finds himself coming face-to-face with Nora once again... and thanks to some meddling from friends and family, the two get another chance at that happily ever after. I really adored these two so very much. They had a wonderful chemistry and a great back and forth that comes with the history they had shared. They both have some insecurities they have to work through, but I loved seeing their growth throughout (and I loved how pro-therapy the story was too). The way Brooks steps in and is there not just for Nora but her two-year-old son-Ollie- as well? As great as the romance was, that sweet relationship between Ollie and Brooks added so much to their story too! Truly, there was just so much to love!
Home Run Heart is a closed-door romance with kisses only. It does have a bit of innuendo and very minimal mild swears.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
This was such a beautiful story with just the perfect blend of humor, heart, and swoon that I absolutely could not get enough of. Second chance romances are some of my very favorites, and this one was done very well. Nora and Brooks were high school sweethearts until he'd broken things off to pursue professional baseball. Years later, he's living that dream and finds himself coming face-to-face with Nora once again... and thanks to some meddling from friends and family, the two get another chance at that happily ever after. I really adored these two so very much. They had a wonderful chemistry and a great back and forth that comes with the history they had shared. They both have some insecurities they have to work through, but I loved seeing their growth throughout (and I loved how pro-therapy the story was too). The way Brooks steps in and is there not just for Nora but her two-year-old son-Ollie- as well? As great as the romance was, that sweet relationship between Ollie and Brooks added so much to their story too! Truly, there was just so much to love!
Home Run Heart is a closed-door romance with kisses only. It does have a bit of innuendo and very minimal mild swears.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2024
When we met Nora (Girl meets Grump) she was pregnant, divorced and facing insurmountable challenges ahead. We witnessed as she gave birth to the precious Ollie, and captured us with her vulnerability through her postpartum and return to her job at the diner. We know her.
Two years later Nora is the manager of the diner, she is still divorced, Ollie is as precious as ever, and her life seems pretty balanced…until the love of her life/now famous rookie baseball star Brooks Alden walks back into her life throwing her for a loop.
Years ago Brooks had followed the manipulative advice of his father and left his only love back in Kitts Harbor to play college baseball. It was his biggest regret. Knowing Nora married a former friend of his led him to shut them both out, but that meant he missed the memo…Nora was single again. Brooks knows better than to make the same mistake twice.
—
For me to enjoy and recommend a second chance love story, I as a reader, need to believe in the investment. The work has to be put in by the characters to make the changes feel natural, right, and solid.
With no 3rd act breakup (thank you!) this couple does the work. They both decide at multiple points in the story to choose each other. It’s those choices, and the vulnerable honest acceptance that I find so satisfying and rewarding about reading this story.
A seriously enjoyable sports sweet romance that hits all the right note. (See what I did there?)
A definite recommendation from me.
Two years later Nora is the manager of the diner, she is still divorced, Ollie is as precious as ever, and her life seems pretty balanced…until the love of her life/now famous rookie baseball star Brooks Alden walks back into her life throwing her for a loop.
Years ago Brooks had followed the manipulative advice of his father and left his only love back in Kitts Harbor to play college baseball. It was his biggest regret. Knowing Nora married a former friend of his led him to shut them both out, but that meant he missed the memo…Nora was single again. Brooks knows better than to make the same mistake twice.
—
For me to enjoy and recommend a second chance love story, I as a reader, need to believe in the investment. The work has to be put in by the characters to make the changes feel natural, right, and solid.
With no 3rd act breakup (thank you!) this couple does the work. They both decide at multiple points in the story to choose each other. It’s those choices, and the vulnerable honest acceptance that I find so satisfying and rewarding about reading this story.
A seriously enjoyable sports sweet romance that hits all the right note. (See what I did there?)
A definite recommendation from me.
October 25, 2024
Do you want to lose sleep over a book?! It’s this one. OH MY GOODNESS!!! I loved it so much, cover to cover.
These characters are incredible! I see myself so much in Nora Foster like her homebodyness, bravery, strength, kindness, and deep desires of her heart. Brooks Alden needs to exist in real life because I need him to be my real life boyfriend! His sincerity, observance, protectiveness, and loving soul towards Nora and Ollie is what every girl wants!
I loved the pacing of the book. You want to savor, but at the same time devour every single page because it’s so good. You also see the growth so evidently that these characters go through, trying to love each other whilst fighting their demons in the process. Hailey’s writing is beautiful, simple, detailed, and has just the right amount of humor that makes you feel good!
I loved the baseball theme and element. As well as being back in Kitts Harbor, but seeing it from a different point of view.🌲🐚
I just want more of these two. I would have loved more flashbacks from their high school relationship. Maybe even a short novella👀. Those little tidbits and memories that they recalled from their younger years together made my heart gush because you saw how much they loved each other then, as much as they loved each other now.
N+B forever🫶🏻⚾️
These characters are incredible! I see myself so much in Nora Foster like her homebodyness, bravery, strength, kindness, and deep desires of her heart. Brooks Alden needs to exist in real life because I need him to be my real life boyfriend! His sincerity, observance, protectiveness, and loving soul towards Nora and Ollie is what every girl wants!
I loved the pacing of the book. You want to savor, but at the same time devour every single page because it’s so good. You also see the growth so evidently that these characters go through, trying to love each other whilst fighting their demons in the process. Hailey’s writing is beautiful, simple, detailed, and has just the right amount of humor that makes you feel good!
I loved the baseball theme and element. As well as being back in Kitts Harbor, but seeing it from a different point of view.🌲🐚
I just want more of these two. I would have loved more flashbacks from their high school relationship. Maybe even a short novella👀. Those little tidbits and memories that they recalled from their younger years together made my heart gush because you saw how much they loved each other then, as much as they loved each other now.
N+B forever🫶🏻⚾️
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