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King Sports #1
The Backup Plan
Thad
Failing to make it in pro ball left me absolutely devastated. Baseball has been my life, my dream, but it’s time to move on.
Becoming a sports agent was always my backup plan, and now that I’m interning at the biggest queer-focused firm in the country, I’m doing my best not to let my bitterness toward baseball affect my future.
That’s really difficult when I’m assigned to babysit Kelley Afton, hotshot rookie pitcher for Philly. He has everything I ever wanted, and he doesn’t even appreciate it. I didn’t become an agent so I could soothe the ego of diva athletes.
His constant need for validation from others frustrates me to no end, but that’s probably a good thing. Because if he didn’t have that, I’d find him irresistibly my type.
Attraction could lead to crossing lines which would put my position at King Sports in jeopardy, and I can’t have that.
I don’t have a backup for my backup plan.
Failing to make it in pro ball left me absolutely devastated. Baseball has been my life, my dream, but it’s time to move on.
Becoming a sports agent was always my backup plan, and now that I’m interning at the biggest queer-focused firm in the country, I’m doing my best not to let my bitterness toward baseball affect my future.
That’s really difficult when I’m assigned to babysit Kelley Afton, hotshot rookie pitcher for Philly. He has everything I ever wanted, and he doesn’t even appreciate it. I didn’t become an agent so I could soothe the ego of diva athletes.
His constant need for validation from others frustrates me to no end, but that’s probably a good thing. Because if he didn’t have that, I’d find him irresistibly my type.
Attraction could lead to crossing lines which would put my position at King Sports in jeopardy, and I can’t have that.
I don’t have a backup for my backup plan.
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 7, 2024
489 people are currently reading
1835 people want to read
About the author
Eden Finley
70 books7,918 followersEden Finley is an Amazon bestselling author who writes steamy contemporary romances that are mostly full of snark and light-hearted fluff.
She lives to create an escape from real life for herself and her readers.
She's also an Australian girl and apologises for her Australianisms that sometimes don't make sense to anyone else.
She lives to create an escape from real life for herself and her readers.
She's also an Australian girl and apologises for her Australianisms that sometimes don't make sense to anyone else.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 562 reviews
October 12, 2024
So much fun! This book fits so well into the extended Sadenverse and I loved how much Damon was featured 😍 It had a really similar feel to the fake boyfriend series because it's obviously very closely related to a lot of the characters from that series, and I can't wait for more King Sports books to come.
Kelley and Thad have had me curious since they first popped up and I loved getting to see their relationship grow. Thad was such a bitter dickhead to begin with and Kelley was really struggling to hold himself together as his anxiety was crippling him, but they're really there each other and give each other a new perspective. The way they grow together and get all heart eyed for each other was too cute.
The secrecy and sneaking around was funny because these two were so not subtle 😂 Brady and Thad becoming friends was really cute too and it truly feels like this is the next generation of Sadenverse characters - but obviously Damon has to be immortal because I would be too sad if he wasn't part of this story universe anymore!
There were a couple of loose ends that I would have liked answers for, especially what's going on with Thad's brother? But then it feels like there's potential there for future books so I'm not mad about it.
I'm very excited to see the next pairing in this series though because if it's who I'm thinking and it's rivals/enemies to lovers I can't wait to see how it plays out because I live for the drama 😁
*****
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
Kelley and Thad have had me curious since they first popped up and I loved getting to see their relationship grow. Thad was such a bitter dickhead to begin with and Kelley was really struggling to hold himself together as his anxiety was crippling him, but they're really there each other and give each other a new perspective. The way they grow together and get all heart eyed for each other was too cute.
The secrecy and sneaking around was funny because these two were so not subtle 😂 Brady and Thad becoming friends was really cute too and it truly feels like this is the next generation of Sadenverse characters - but obviously Damon has to be immortal because I would be too sad if he wasn't part of this story universe anymore!
There were a couple of loose ends that I would have liked answers for, especially what's going on with Thad's brother? But then it feels like there's potential there for future books so I'm not mad about it.
I'm very excited to see the next pairing in this series though because if it's who I'm thinking and it's rivals/enemies to lovers I can't wait to see how it plays out because I live for the drama 😁
*****
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
October 18, 2024
This has gone onto my top five of Eden's solo works, I just loved everything about this story from start to finish.
The narrative beautifully explores the feelings of hurt, bitterness, envy and anger from a young man who sees someone seemingly taking for granted the MLB career he couldn't achieve and the sparks fly from the off.
Of course, there's more to it than that, and as Thad discovers the truth behind Kelley's supposed obsession with looking himself up on social media, he also comes to realise that the anxieties he suffers from are compounded by him coming out and facing even more pressure.
The back and forth which starts off with real intent between them slowly turns to a more gentle form of teasing and a way for Thad to get Kelley out of his spirals and, eventually, into a super hot encounter which they both know shouldn't be happening but can't resist the sexual tension between them.
If you've read Can't Say Goodbye then you'll already have had a glimpse of Thad and Kelley as Brady Talon is Kelley's junior/intern agent and he's the one who persuaded him that coming out would help ease the internal anxieties he was having.
Thad's got other stuff going on in his life too, but as the two men's paths take a swerve, he finds himself looking forward to the brief interactions they have by text and each time they're in the same room, the UST hits all the right notes.
For me, the pacing in this book worked beautifully. The more Thad learns about Kelley's anxieties, the more he understands how he needs to get out of his head. For Kelley, Thad's a guaranteed way for him to just let loose with his fears, especially as his efforts on the diamond are become more sporadic.
When the proverbial hits in Kelley's professional career, it's Thad he turns to and everything comes out in the open. Of course, there's got to be an element here to bring tension and conflict and I was glad Eden went with non relationship drama.
The daddy of them all, Damon King, is on hand to offer up some advice and to see that Thad has really upped his game and is going all in to make his back-up plan as a sports agent his actual priority goal.
That he's doing it because of how Kelley's been treated, is a plus point for Damon, he sees Thad's really working for the client, even if Kelley isn't actually his, and it's a turning point for Thad's commitment to his career.
There's a few more rocky bumps to hurdle before the two men are finally on the same page - and in the same place - and I loved the way they reconnected, each knowing they've found their person.
I loved the guest appearances from the wider Sadenverse, and I especially loved all the page time Damon got, he is, after all, the centre of the universe!
Loving the possibilities for further books in this series too.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Foreward PR, I am voluntarily leaving a review
The narrative beautifully explores the feelings of hurt, bitterness, envy and anger from a young man who sees someone seemingly taking for granted the MLB career he couldn't achieve and the sparks fly from the off.
Of course, there's more to it than that, and as Thad discovers the truth behind Kelley's supposed obsession with looking himself up on social media, he also comes to realise that the anxieties he suffers from are compounded by him coming out and facing even more pressure.
The back and forth which starts off with real intent between them slowly turns to a more gentle form of teasing and a way for Thad to get Kelley out of his spirals and, eventually, into a super hot encounter which they both know shouldn't be happening but can't resist the sexual tension between them.
If you've read Can't Say Goodbye then you'll already have had a glimpse of Thad and Kelley as Brady Talon is Kelley's junior/intern agent and he's the one who persuaded him that coming out would help ease the internal anxieties he was having.
Thad's got other stuff going on in his life too, but as the two men's paths take a swerve, he finds himself looking forward to the brief interactions they have by text and each time they're in the same room, the UST hits all the right notes.
For me, the pacing in this book worked beautifully. The more Thad learns about Kelley's anxieties, the more he understands how he needs to get out of his head. For Kelley, Thad's a guaranteed way for him to just let loose with his fears, especially as his efforts on the diamond are become more sporadic.
When the proverbial hits in Kelley's professional career, it's Thad he turns to and everything comes out in the open. Of course, there's got to be an element here to bring tension and conflict and I was glad Eden went with non relationship drama.
The daddy of them all, Damon King, is on hand to offer up some advice and to see that Thad has really upped his game and is going all in to make his back-up plan as a sports agent his actual priority goal.
That he's doing it because of how Kelley's been treated, is a plus point for Damon, he sees Thad's really working for the client, even if Kelley isn't actually his, and it's a turning point for Thad's commitment to his career.
There's a few more rocky bumps to hurdle before the two men are finally on the same page - and in the same place - and I loved the way they reconnected, each knowing they've found their person.
I loved the guest appearances from the wider Sadenverse, and I especially loved all the page time Damon got, he is, after all, the centre of the universe!
Loving the possibilities for further books in this series too.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Foreward PR, I am voluntarily leaving a review
December 30, 2024
This was pretty good I enjoyed it. Excited to see more of the series!
January 24, 2025
“You want my mouth? You want me to deep-throat you until my eyes water and I can barely breathe?”
3.5⭐️
Alright alright, Eden Finley, we are moving on to the next generation in your universe, I see you. Damon is a a silver fox, yaws god please. Anyways, this was just alright for me sis. Like, what happened? I just wasnt vibing with Thad in the beginning, he made me wanna suffocate him. Then when it came to the actual romance and for the two of them, Thad and Kelley to fall in love it just wasnt that special. I feel like there was a lot to work with, but like the spark wasnt there for me. I needed more. Just more of everything. More of them building something, and or more pining for one other or some shit. I needed it because at the end of the day, Eden Finley books usually make me giggle and the jokes werent jokin this time so I was left to my on devises. Like I am probably in the minority with this book but I was kinda bored and im the queen of loving me some nothing happening in the book type books, like I love a boring book but girl you gotta give me something while giving nothing. Like yeah I love being in this world and to be fair and not like critiquing the book to my personal taste, its pretty good, like people will like it for sure, but I was wanting something more. I know Eden got it in her. Also why was Brady like the 3rd main character. Sir you had your own book bro, i havent read it, like back up. I kinda was more interested in Thad's roommates, I wanna know what the heck is going on with old boi who was dressing up as batman for kids parties, where is his book? Anyways it was just not for me, but hey its not a bad book for sure, just not my favorite characters ever, like I think this could of went in a very emotional direction with Kelley and his anxiety but it didnt even do that for me. RIP I am mensurating so it wouldnt of taken much to make me cry. Anyways thats enough information. or too much information. Dont read my reviews to try to help you decide shit.
3.5⭐️
Alright alright, Eden Finley, we are moving on to the next generation in your universe, I see you. Damon is a a silver fox, yaws god please. Anyways, this was just alright for me sis. Like, what happened? I just wasnt vibing with Thad in the beginning, he made me wanna suffocate him. Then when it came to the actual romance and for the two of them, Thad and Kelley to fall in love it just wasnt that special. I feel like there was a lot to work with, but like the spark wasnt there for me. I needed more. Just more of everything. More of them building something, and or more pining for one other or some shit. I needed it because at the end of the day, Eden Finley books usually make me giggle and the jokes werent jokin this time so I was left to my on devises. Like I am probably in the minority with this book but I was kinda bored and im the queen of loving me some nothing happening in the book type books, like I love a boring book but girl you gotta give me something while giving nothing. Like yeah I love being in this world and to be fair and not like critiquing the book to my personal taste, its pretty good, like people will like it for sure, but I was wanting something more. I know Eden got it in her. Also why was Brady like the 3rd main character. Sir you had your own book bro, i havent read it, like back up. I kinda was more interested in Thad's roommates, I wanna know what the heck is going on with old boi who was dressing up as batman for kids parties, where is his book? Anyways it was just not for me, but hey its not a bad book for sure, just not my favorite characters ever, like I think this could of went in a very emotional direction with Kelley and his anxiety but it didnt even do that for me. RIP I am mensurating so it wouldnt of taken much to make me cry. Anyways thats enough information. or too much information. Dont read my reviews to try to help you decide shit.
November 10, 2024
Tropes: Forced proximity, agent/athlete, forbidden relationship
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: anxiety disorder, mental health, third act break up, homophobia
3.75 stars
Kelley is 26. He's a gay pitcher in MLB. He's always hid his sexuality, so he doesn't have a lot of experience. He has suffered multiple anxiety disorders his whole life. He decided to come out recently and now he's dealing with some backlash to that in the media and from his team. It's making his anxiety horrible, and he can't stop himself from checking social media to see how people are talking about him and he's spiraling. His agency is Damon King's, and Damon comes up with a plan to send Kelley for two week vacation in the off season out in the boonies without a phone and with two interns as babysitters for him. To give him a break.
Thad is 24. He and Brady are the interns assigned. Thad was trying to make it to the MLB himself, and he recently had to give up that dream because he's just not a good enough player. It's really hit him hard, realizing that and giving up on his dream. His backup plan is to be a sports agent. He resents Kelley because he doesn't know about his anxiety and he thinks that this is about ego and not appreciating what he has. So the two of them don't get along well at the beginning. But then Thad realizes what Kelley is dealing with and it changes things between them, he finds out that Kelley hasn't had sex for 4 years because of his anxiety, so Thad offers to be a safe person for him to be with. After the two weeks are up they go there separate ways for a number of months, and then work brings them back together again and they start hooking up again when they can manage it. But it's forbidden because he's not supposed to be hooking up with the client. And distance keeps them apart.
Overall this was a good book. It was a fun low angst story with thoughtful plot, character development, and some hits to the feels and giggles.
Things I liked (in no particular order):
- This book did a decent job of representing some of the struggles and conundrums that anxiety is.
- I loved the humor. The author's good at casually dropping snarky funny comments. Like the jabs at Thad's cooking skills, Thad's throwing coffee, Thad's roommates' struggles.
- I liked how each of them came to realizations as a result of the influence of the other person. Kelley helped Thad to accept his reality and move on and make peace with his new direction in life. And Thad helped Kelley with his anxiety.
Things I didn't love:
- I'm slightly disappointed that they spent so much of the book apart. There were huge gaps where they spent months apart and they never were official. They didn't communicate at all during one of the gaps. They communicated a fair bit via text or phone during the second gap. But besides the two weeks they spent together at the beginning like a year ago, they didn't really have a lot of time together. Their first date was set up at 92%.
- This wasn't a horrible thing, but it should be noted that they cleared up their miscommunication/misunderstanding by 17%, so there wasn't animosity between them from then on. They did have other tensions though, other conflicts.
- Its mentioned that Brady convinced Kelley to come out. Kelley says he wouldn't necessarily have done it if it weren't for Brady. And he suffers because he did (for a bit). It just gave me complicated feelings - living your authentic life is good, but people shouldn't be pressured to come out. The convincing happened off page, so I was just left with a little bit of a bad feeling about that.
- I know Thad did not tell people about Kelley's anxiety, but he did tell people about his social media addiction and some of what he was struggling with, in a light-hearted making fun of it in front of him way. I considered that a breaking of his NDA though. And it bugged me.
- near the end of the book, when Thad moves, the feel of the book all of a sudden got really really different from what it was before. The author really switched gears to start setting up the rest of the series and introducing new characters. It just was a big jolt, it wasn't subtle, it was like it wasn't Thad and Kelley's story anymore.
Some notable moments:
"“You’ve made me see that if this is a career I really want, I need to start making the effort to be professional and not make assumptions about the athletes under my care. Oh, and also for not having called Damon already to get me fired. That’s a big thanks.” “I wouldn’t have done that.” “You should have.” “No, I mean I couldn’t have done that. I don’t have a phone.”"
"“What can I say? Third-degree burns might be worth scoring this shirt.” I lift the collar to my nose and love the way Thad’s eyes fill with heat. “It smells nice.” He’s still staring, momentarily silent until he says, “I’m getting that shirt back, by the way. One day.” “I promise I will return your shirt.” Maybe. Possibly. Okay, no, I won’t. He doesn’t need to know I’m crossing my fingers behind my back."
"“Where are you working these days?” I ask. “Uh … I’d rather not say.” He looks away. “Strip club. Got it.” He throws a couch cushion at me. “It’s worse than that. It’s dressing up as Batman for kids’ birthday parties.” I suck my lips inward to try to stop the laugh from escaping."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: anxiety disorder, mental health, third act break up, homophobia
3.75 stars
Kelley is 26. He's a gay pitcher in MLB. He's always hid his sexuality, so he doesn't have a lot of experience. He has suffered multiple anxiety disorders his whole life. He decided to come out recently and now he's dealing with some backlash to that in the media and from his team. It's making his anxiety horrible, and he can't stop himself from checking social media to see how people are talking about him and he's spiraling. His agency is Damon King's, and Damon comes up with a plan to send Kelley for two week vacation in the off season out in the boonies without a phone and with two interns as babysitters for him. To give him a break.
Thad is 24. He and Brady are the interns assigned. Thad was trying to make it to the MLB himself, and he recently had to give up that dream because he's just not a good enough player. It's really hit him hard, realizing that and giving up on his dream. His backup plan is to be a sports agent. He resents Kelley because he doesn't know about his anxiety and he thinks that this is about ego and not appreciating what he has. So the two of them don't get along well at the beginning. But then Thad realizes what Kelley is dealing with and it changes things between them, he finds out that Kelley hasn't had sex for 4 years because of his anxiety, so Thad offers to be a safe person for him to be with. After the two weeks are up they go there separate ways for a number of months, and then work brings them back together again and they start hooking up again when they can manage it. But it's forbidden because he's not supposed to be hooking up with the client. And distance keeps them apart.
Overall this was a good book. It was a fun low angst story with thoughtful plot, character development, and some hits to the feels and giggles.
Things I liked (in no particular order):
- This book did a decent job of representing some of the struggles and conundrums that anxiety is.
- I loved the humor. The author's good at casually dropping snarky funny comments. Like the jabs at Thad's cooking skills, Thad's throwing coffee, Thad's roommates' struggles.
- I liked how each of them came to realizations as a result of the influence of the other person. Kelley helped Thad to accept his reality and move on and make peace with his new direction in life. And Thad helped Kelley with his anxiety.
Things I didn't love:
- I'm slightly disappointed that they spent so much of the book apart. There were huge gaps where they spent months apart and they never were official. They didn't communicate at all during one of the gaps. They communicated a fair bit via text or phone during the second gap. But besides the two weeks they spent together at the beginning like a year ago, they didn't really have a lot of time together. Their first date was set up at 92%.
- This wasn't a horrible thing, but it should be noted that they cleared up their miscommunication/misunderstanding by 17%, so there wasn't animosity between them from then on. They did have other tensions though, other conflicts.
- Its mentioned that Brady convinced Kelley to come out. Kelley says he wouldn't necessarily have done it if it weren't for Brady. And he suffers because he did (for a bit). It just gave me complicated feelings - living your authentic life is good, but people shouldn't be pressured to come out. The convincing happened off page, so I was just left with a little bit of a bad feeling about that.
- I know Thad did not tell people about Kelley's anxiety, but he did tell people about his social media addiction and some of what he was struggling with, in a light-hearted making fun of it in front of him way. I considered that a breaking of his NDA though. And it bugged me.
- near the end of the book, when Thad moves, the feel of the book all of a sudden got really really different from what it was before. The author really switched gears to start setting up the rest of the series and introducing new characters. It just was a big jolt, it wasn't subtle, it was like it wasn't Thad and Kelley's story anymore.
Some notable moments:
"“You’ve made me see that if this is a career I really want, I need to start making the effort to be professional and not make assumptions about the athletes under my care. Oh, and also for not having called Damon already to get me fired. That’s a big thanks.” “I wouldn’t have done that.” “You should have.” “No, I mean I couldn’t have done that. I don’t have a phone.”"
"“What can I say? Third-degree burns might be worth scoring this shirt.” I lift the collar to my nose and love the way Thad’s eyes fill with heat. “It smells nice.” He’s still staring, momentarily silent until he says, “I’m getting that shirt back, by the way. One day.” “I promise I will return your shirt.” Maybe. Possibly. Okay, no, I won’t. He doesn’t need to know I’m crossing my fingers behind my back."
"“Where are you working these days?” I ask. “Uh … I’d rather not say.” He looks away. “Strip club. Got it.” He throws a couch cushion at me. “It’s worse than that. It’s dressing up as Batman for kids’ birthday parties.” I suck my lips inward to try to stop the laugh from escaping."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2024
When his dream of playing pro baseball falls short, Thad reluctantly shifts to his back up plan of interning as a sports agent. He's barely making ends meet, and resents people who have the things he wants so badly. People like Kelley, who has an excess of talent and the high paycheque that comes with a pro career. It's dislike at first sight for Thad, who can't get over his feelings about Kelley being entitled and annoying. Tensions boil over when Thad is tasked with babysitting Kelley and enforcing a social media ban. Tropes include dislike to lovers, rich/poor, forced proximity and sports romance. I don't like baseball at all (🥱) and I liked this book so don't hesitate to dive in even if sports aren't your thing.
I love a good character building book and I think The Backup Plan is just that. Thad has to learn to let go of his bitterness and get to know Kelley. He has to finally figure out what's worth fighting for, and work for it above everything else. It took me a bit of time to get into the book while Thad was figuring things out, but once he and Kelley started to understand each other's perspectives I was completely hooked in. The book was also super fun to read because it brought back some of my fave moments from Brady's book, and it was interesting to revisit those scenes from another perspective.
Rating: 4 stars
Angst: 2.3/5
Steam: 3/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
"Thad gets this look in his eyes, and I've only seen it a couple of times, but it takes my breath away. It's like he has this inside joke that only I'm in on. And even though I have no idea what it means or what that inside joke is, all I know is it gives me a warm and fuzzy swoop in my gut."
I love a good character building book and I think The Backup Plan is just that. Thad has to learn to let go of his bitterness and get to know Kelley. He has to finally figure out what's worth fighting for, and work for it above everything else. It took me a bit of time to get into the book while Thad was figuring things out, but once he and Kelley started to understand each other's perspectives I was completely hooked in. The book was also super fun to read because it brought back some of my fave moments from Brady's book, and it was interesting to revisit those scenes from another perspective.
Rating: 4 stars
Angst: 2.3/5
Steam: 3/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
November 8, 2024
This book had its cute moments, but the pacing was quite weird.
Random observations:
* I didn't really get Thad's character. One minute he's jealous, bitter and really rude to Kelley and then he's suddenly attracted to him and having sex with him. Umm, how did that happen? What I did like was that Thad never looked at anyone else after those two weeks and he turned into a caring guy. But still, that didn't match with how he acted the first week.
* The forced proximity at the cabin was a stretch. How normal is it to send a pro baseball player in exile with two interns, just to confiscate his phone? And even if you conveniently forget that, the guy is a pro athlete. Shouldn't he be working out at the very least, instead of sitting on the couch for two weeks?
* Brady took up way too much pagetime. I've read the book about his brother Peyton, so I knew about him and the Marines, but if I wanted to read his story, I would have read his book.
* The money thing made it very weird. I wish the author would have found another way to deal with that.
* But I did love Kelley. He was a very sweet guy.
So, easy read with mostly likeable characters, but also easily forgettable and a bit lackluster in execution.
Random observations:
* I didn't really get Thad's character. One minute he's jealous, bitter and really rude to Kelley and then he's suddenly attracted to him and having sex with him. Umm, how did that happen? What I did like was that Thad never looked at anyone else after those two weeks and he turned into a caring guy. But still, that didn't match with how he acted the first week.
* The forced proximity at the cabin was a stretch. How normal is it to send a pro baseball player in exile with two interns, just to confiscate his phone? And even if you conveniently forget that, the guy is a pro athlete. Shouldn't he be working out at the very least, instead of sitting on the couch for two weeks?
* Brady took up way too much pagetime. I've read the book about his brother Peyton, so I knew about him and the Marines, but if I wanted to read his story, I would have read his book.
* The money thing made it very weird. I wish the author would have found another way to deal with that.
* But I did love Kelley. He was a very sweet guy.
So, easy read with mostly likeable characters, but also easily forgettable and a bit lackluster in execution.
November 15, 2024
3.5 stars
I liked the vibes of the story: a new generation of agents and athletes working together.
I loved Kelley very much: I think the author did an incredible job describing his anxiety, how his brain tried to constantly trick him with spiraling thoughts, how he tried to resist, how he failed, but also, how he worked hard to overcome all those negative feelings.
I had to gave it a low rating because I couldn't really connect with Thad: his judgemental and bitter attitude prevented him from being the person Kelley needed at first. Moreover he went from resenting him to want to have sex with him in a span? of just a few days.
Between the two of them, Kelley seemed to be the more interested in hanging out and seeing each other. Unfortunately, their dynamic did not give me the impression of two people destined to be together.
I like the second part more, it was more challenging for both of them. And I really appreciate Thad's development, his commitment to his job and his maturity.
Anyway It's been very good to be back in a world when Damon King exists!
He's in his fifties now, hot smart and clever as usual; he's also a good boss and I loved to see him taking care of his clients and shaping young agents.
i adored the references to the previous books (the fake dating with Maddox, Oskar's Voyjik's sheaningans and, obviously the Talon-Miller family).
I know that this book it's not about him (nor about Brady) but it was so satisfying to see him again.
Next book will be coworkers/enemies to lovers? We'll see.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
I liked the vibes of the story: a new generation of agents and athletes working together.
I loved Kelley very much: I think the author did an incredible job describing his anxiety, how his brain tried to constantly trick him with spiraling thoughts, how he tried to resist, how he failed, but also, how he worked hard to overcome all those negative feelings.
I had to gave it a low rating because I couldn't really connect with Thad: his judgemental and bitter attitude prevented him from being the person Kelley needed at first. Moreover he went from resenting him to want to have sex with him in a span? of just a few days.
Between the two of them, Kelley seemed to be the more interested in hanging out and seeing each other. Unfortunately, their dynamic did not give me the impression of two people destined to be together.
I like the second part more, it was more challenging for both of them. And I really appreciate Thad's development, his commitment to his job and his maturity.
Anyway It's been very good to be back in a world when Damon King exists!
He's in his fifties now, hot smart and clever as usual; he's also a good boss and I loved to see him taking care of his clients and shaping young agents.
i adored the references to the previous books (the fake dating with Maddox, Oskar's Voyjik's sheaningans and, obviously the Talon-Miller family).
I know that this book it's not about him (nor about Brady) but it was so satisfying to see him again.
Next book will be coworkers/enemies to lovers? We'll see.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
October 18, 2024
a perfect addition to the sadenverse! love these two! the characters are so real and imperfect very relatable. highly recommend anything in the sadenverse. i can't wait to read more in this series
Read
December 12, 2024DNF’d at 21%
November 9, 2024
not bad, but i was feeling bored after a while.
however, i do not know anything about baseball and i couldn’t understand shit about the games. i even tried to look it up but i still didn’t understand what the fuck they’re supposed to do and i genuinely wanted to cry.
i hate baseball 🤍
however, i do not know anything about baseball and i couldn’t understand shit about the games. i even tried to look it up but i still didn’t understand what the fuck they’re supposed to do and i genuinely wanted to cry.
i hate baseball 🤍
November 7, 2024
What a great beginning to a new series! If you're a common Sadenverse visitor, then it's not all new of course. Familiar faces appear and familiar names are mentioned. It's like seeing and hearing about old friends. It's amazing.
I think when you read several books (don't make me count) by the same author, you start to have some expectations for their books, and I wasn't aware that I had those, but as I finished The Backup Plan I had that feeling of "expectations fulfilled". It has the humor only Eden Finley knows how to bring, mixed with sweet moments which in my eyes just makes everything so much better, and the spice... Yep, expectations fulfilled!
Thad and Kelley were so great together, and I loved the enemies to lovers vibe, even though it was mostly one sided. Thad is struggling due to his lost baseball career and now he's working as a sports agent, his backup plan. He's usually able to swallow down his resentfulness, but he reaches his breaking point when he has to babysit baseball star Kelley Afton for two weeks away from everything and everyone.
Kelley is struggling after publicly coming out, he's obsessing about social media, what the comments are saying about him, and it's really getting to him. His hired agent firm, King Sports, arranges a two week trip out in the middle of nowhere with two interns from the firm, Brady and Thad. Kelley isn't allowed to have his phone or anything else that connects him to the world, with the hope that he might be able to feel better about things. There's not much to do in a cabin in the middle of nowhere, and Brady keeps disappearing, leaving Kelley and Thad alone together, which forces the men to find out why the other is acting the way he does, and they develop a.... (forbidden) friendship.
There are a lot of things to love about this book, it's funny, sweet and deliciously spicy, but what I enjoyed the most, weirdly enough, is the anxiety REP, having anxiety myself. I feel like it was so painfully correctly described, and especially the way some people react to people having anxiety, not knowing they have it, or not understanding it. The constant wars in your head between anxiety and logic, and the constant insecurities. It's hell, and I felt so deeply for Kelley. I'm glad he found his person ♥
I'm looking so much forward to the next books to come.
❥ Dual POV
❥ MM Romance
❥ Forbidden Romance
❥ Enemies to Lovers
❥ Agent x Athlete
❥ Secret Relationship
❥ Anxiety Rep
❥ Emotional Support Human
❥ Damon Knows All
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Read the full review on my blog here with edits and quotes.
I think when you read several books (don't make me count) by the same author, you start to have some expectations for their books, and I wasn't aware that I had those, but as I finished The Backup Plan I had that feeling of "expectations fulfilled". It has the humor only Eden Finley knows how to bring, mixed with sweet moments which in my eyes just makes everything so much better, and the spice... Yep, expectations fulfilled!
Thad and Kelley were so great together, and I loved the enemies to lovers vibe, even though it was mostly one sided. Thad is struggling due to his lost baseball career and now he's working as a sports agent, his backup plan. He's usually able to swallow down his resentfulness, but he reaches his breaking point when he has to babysit baseball star Kelley Afton for two weeks away from everything and everyone.
Kelley is struggling after publicly coming out, he's obsessing about social media, what the comments are saying about him, and it's really getting to him. His hired agent firm, King Sports, arranges a two week trip out in the middle of nowhere with two interns from the firm, Brady and Thad. Kelley isn't allowed to have his phone or anything else that connects him to the world, with the hope that he might be able to feel better about things. There's not much to do in a cabin in the middle of nowhere, and Brady keeps disappearing, leaving Kelley and Thad alone together, which forces the men to find out why the other is acting the way he does, and they develop a.... (forbidden) friendship.
There are a lot of things to love about this book, it's funny, sweet and deliciously spicy, but what I enjoyed the most, weirdly enough, is the anxiety REP, having anxiety myself. I feel like it was so painfully correctly described, and especially the way some people react to people having anxiety, not knowing they have it, or not understanding it. The constant wars in your head between anxiety and logic, and the constant insecurities. It's hell, and I felt so deeply for Kelley. I'm glad he found his person ♥
I'm looking so much forward to the next books to come.
❥ Dual POV
❥ MM Romance
❥ Forbidden Romance
❥ Enemies to Lovers
❥ Agent x Athlete
❥ Secret Relationship
❥ Anxiety Rep
❥ Emotional Support Human
❥ Damon Knows All
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Read the full review on my blog here with edits and quotes.
November 11, 2024
My love of Edens Damon-verse knows no bounds, and my god I’m so happy with book one of King Sports. Thad and Kelley are equal parts adorable and hilarious. Thad was a grumpy rascal at the start, he’s a little sour that being an agent was his back up plan after not making it pro and it’s all directed at poor Kelley who is a pro bball player with some unfortunate anxieties over recently coming out. Butting heads soon turns into some good chemistry though, I loved how beautifully they worked together even when the odds were stacked against them. It’s definitely a story of never giving up when you feel that spark. This whole new spin off world with Damon at the helm is going to be so good, every character is so much fun and I personally cannot wait for more.
November 10, 2024
4.5☆
ᔑᑭᏆᑕᗴ: 🔥🔥🔥
しᗩᑌᏀᕼᔑ: 🤣🤣🤣
Ꭲᗴᗩᖇᔑ:🥲
ᗰᑕᔑ: Kelley Afton, Thad(Theodore) St. James.
ᑭᝪᐯ: 1st dual
Ꭲᖇᝪᑭᗴᔑ: Fordidden Romance Sport Romance, " Enemies to Lovers ", Secret Relationship, Anxiety Rep
Aun sigo procesando todo pero bien. Este libro me ha encantado soy fiel a los libros de Eden Finley amo el universo que ha creado con Damon King y todo lo que ju to con Saxon James ha logrado aunque este libro queda lejos de todo lo que para mi podrían formar parte del Colectivo Queer no importa Thad me ha enamorado y Kelley ha sido sin dudo mi perosnaje favorito. La representación qué muestra acá la ansiedad me gusta es algo que muchas personas manejan con gran dificultad pero llegar a entenderlo como lo hizo Thad y llegar a ser fiel a Kelley en serio ame todo por eso. En cuanto a Thad y su cambio de una amargura y resentimiento a alguien que visualiza un gran futuro gracias a Kelly fue sin duda mi momento fav.
Como detalle sigo molesto con la situación económica de la familia de Thad pero en fin.
Luego que este libro este dentro de la línea de tiempo de Can't Say Goodbye y tener de vuelta a Brady y sus novios Prescott y Kit (estos con pequeñas apariciones) AMOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! A estos 3 y bien no pueden dejar de lado el rey de reyes Damon King bebé cosito bien hecho aunque sos un personaje ficticios estoy orgulloso de lo que has logrado un imperio, tu lealtad a ti mismo a los tuyos a tu firma y Maddox en serio respeto y admiro a este personaje desde Fake Out siento que te he visto crecer con cada paso(libro) que das(apareces).
Sin duda este libro es inicio de serie ha sido una gran sorpresa y un felicidad enorme nunca me cansaré de leer a Eden y su Damonverse/Sandenverse
ᔑᑭᏆᑕᗴ: 🔥🔥🔥
しᗩᑌᏀᕼᔑ: 🤣🤣🤣
Ꭲᗴᗩᖇᔑ:🥲
ᗰᑕᔑ: Kelley Afton, Thad(Theodore) St. James.
ᑭᝪᐯ: 1st dual
Ꭲᖇᝪᑭᗴᔑ: Fordidden Romance Sport Romance, " Enemies to Lovers ", Secret Relationship, Anxiety Rep
Aun sigo procesando todo pero bien. Este libro me ha encantado soy fiel a los libros de Eden Finley amo el universo que ha creado con Damon King y todo lo que ju to con Saxon James ha logrado aunque este libro queda lejos de todo lo que para mi podrían formar parte del Colectivo Queer no importa Thad me ha enamorado y Kelley ha sido sin dudo mi perosnaje favorito. La representación qué muestra acá la ansiedad me gusta es algo que muchas personas manejan con gran dificultad pero llegar a entenderlo como lo hizo Thad y llegar a ser fiel a Kelley en serio ame todo por eso. En cuanto a Thad y su cambio de una amargura y resentimiento a alguien que visualiza un gran futuro gracias a Kelly fue sin duda mi momento fav.
Como detalle sigo molesto con la situación económica de la familia de Thad pero en fin.
Luego que este libro este dentro de la línea de tiempo de Can't Say Goodbye y tener de vuelta a Brady y sus novios Prescott y Kit (estos con pequeñas apariciones) AMOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! A estos 3 y bien no pueden dejar de lado el rey de reyes Damon King bebé cosito bien hecho aunque sos un personaje ficticios estoy orgulloso de lo que has logrado un imperio, tu lealtad a ti mismo a los tuyos a tu firma y Maddox en serio respeto y admiro a este personaje desde Fake Out siento que te he visto crecer con cada paso(libro) que das(apareces).
Sin duda este libro es inicio de serie ha sido una gran sorpresa y un felicidad enorme nunca me cansaré de leer a Eden y su Damonverse/Sandenverse
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2024
I absolutely loved this book Eden Finley never fails to impress me with their books. I hope this will be a long series that I would love to immerse my self in. Kelley and Thad were so amazing together and seeing their relationship blossom from enemies to lovers was compelling.
November 14, 2024
This has immediately jumped into the top Eden Finley books for me. I adore the Sadenverse and getting a peak into the new generation at King Sports was everything I could have ever asked for.
- Baseball Player/Agent
- Forced Proximity
- Idiots in Love
Thad and Kelley were an awesome place to start off this new series. I really enjoyed that the first section of the book was a crossover with ‘Can’t Say Goodbye’ which is my favourite Eden book. Seeing the cabin scenes from Thad and Kelley’s POVs was actually hilarious. The whole book had a great mix of laugh-out-loud moments as well as a touch of angst and some emotional times.
I enjoyed the portrayal of Kelley’s anxiety and how he struggled with it throughout the book without it being the focus. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in the series!
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
- Baseball Player/Agent
- Forced Proximity
- Idiots in Love
Thad and Kelley were an awesome place to start off this new series. I really enjoyed that the first section of the book was a crossover with ‘Can’t Say Goodbye’ which is my favourite Eden book. Seeing the cabin scenes from Thad and Kelley’s POVs was actually hilarious. The whole book had a great mix of laugh-out-loud moments as well as a touch of angst and some emotional times.
I enjoyed the portrayal of Kelley’s anxiety and how he struggled with it throughout the book without it being the focus. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in the series!
I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
November 3, 2024
Yep, this is only book one and I’m already obsessed. What a great start to this new series by Eden Finley. Thad and Kelley both grabbed my attention right from the beginning, and I couldn’t put it down. I’m already looking forward to book two.
August 21, 2025
The book started off really promising, but it quickly dragged. The romance kept getting pushed back with so many side twists that took the focus away from the main couple. I loved the beginning, but the love story never really developed, at least not to my liking, and by the end, it just fell flat.
In other words, it was whatever. I like Damon's company and his world getting its own series, I just wish it would've been a lot better than it is.
🟢 Pro baseball player/intern (ex baseball player)
🟣 Age gap 24/26
🔵 A bit of a size difference (Thad is taller and more muscular)
🟡 Both gay
🟢 Many side characters
🟠 The covers in this series are terrible
🌶️ Sex is good, but not a lot of it; rimming, penetrative, oral, kissing; both vers
Thad is an ex–baseball player who never made it to the pros, so he carries a lot of bitterness and envy toward Kelley, the hot and successful baseball star King Sports represents. Thad isn’t an agent yet, just learning the ropes, which lands him in a two-week intervention with Kelley, who’s battling anxiety and trying to step away from the social media noise that’s surrounded him since coming out.
Their chemistry is really good in the beginning, it's authentic, real, and I really liked them together. The sex scenes were good too, though I wish the author had taken more time to explore them instead of rushing through. But the story did feel strong and engaging starting out and most of all, there was no drama at first, just two guys liking each other and I liked the simplicity of it, I was really looking forward to this love evolving and ending on a good note.
A bit predictable, sure, but a nice refreshment after a few bad books I've read lately.
Once Thad and Kelley are back in real life, they circle around each other for a while, trying to meet up, and it works, it's a bit funny and interesting, holds a lot of promise, until they get caught. After that, the plot completely loses direction. Too many unnecessary events drag things out, keeping them apart for weeks and even months. They hardly talk in between. Their potential relationship starts to feel less like a romance and more like a situationship that should have ended right then and there.
Thad then suddenly uproots his life and moves states for Kelley, despite them barely speaking, rarely seeing each other, and not building a real foundation. There’s no steady communication or emotional growth to justify such a big leap, I mean, what was he thinking??
Until the very end there was no chance of them being together and then suddenly Damon gives it a green light and Thad, although showing little desire for keeping in touch with Kelley for all those months, suddenly runs to LA.
It made no sense.
When Thad showed up at Kelley’s game declaring he’s there to stay, it felt rushed and embarrassing, honestly. It's a hook-up you hardly talked to in 6 months and then suddenly it's 'hello honey, I'm home'?
Like, what?
If at least they talked a lot in the meantime.
If at least there were intense pining and wanting to be together, all the time.
That would've justified everything, but Thad, even though he sounds really mature in the beginning, is only fresh out of college and he just didn't seem like the perfect fit for Kelley, who is a very endearing character, he's thinking serious relationship , marriage, kids, all the works, and I don't think Thad was there yet.
Not to mention leaving so many things hanging out in the open, like Thad's family, his brother, his financial situation, Brady jumping in all the time - it's too much for something that was supposed to be a simple love story.
The book began with so much promise, but the development never matched that initial setup, I didn't see Thad as being an agent at all, I thought he'd become Kelley's assistant and just went to live with him, really milk that good sex and chemistry while it was hot, but their love story is leaving me disappointed.
In other words, it was whatever. I like Damon's company and his world getting its own series, I just wish it would've been a lot better than it is.
🟢 Pro baseball player/intern (ex baseball player)
🟣 Age gap 24/26
🔵 A bit of a size difference (Thad is taller and more muscular)
🟡 Both gay
🟢 Many side characters
🟠 The covers in this series are terrible
🌶️ Sex is good, but not a lot of it; rimming, penetrative, oral, kissing; both vers
Thad is an ex–baseball player who never made it to the pros, so he carries a lot of bitterness and envy toward Kelley, the hot and successful baseball star King Sports represents. Thad isn’t an agent yet, just learning the ropes, which lands him in a two-week intervention with Kelley, who’s battling anxiety and trying to step away from the social media noise that’s surrounded him since coming out.
Their chemistry is really good in the beginning, it's authentic, real, and I really liked them together. The sex scenes were good too, though I wish the author had taken more time to explore them instead of rushing through. But the story did feel strong and engaging starting out and most of all, there was no drama at first, just two guys liking each other and I liked the simplicity of it, I was really looking forward to this love evolving and ending on a good note.
A bit predictable, sure, but a nice refreshment after a few bad books I've read lately.
Once Thad and Kelley are back in real life, they circle around each other for a while, trying to meet up, and it works, it's a bit funny and interesting, holds a lot of promise, until they get caught. After that, the plot completely loses direction. Too many unnecessary events drag things out, keeping them apart for weeks and even months. They hardly talk in between. Their potential relationship starts to feel less like a romance and more like a situationship that should have ended right then and there.
Thad then suddenly uproots his life and moves states for Kelley, despite them barely speaking, rarely seeing each other, and not building a real foundation. There’s no steady communication or emotional growth to justify such a big leap, I mean, what was he thinking??
Until the very end there was no chance of them being together and then suddenly Damon gives it a green light and Thad, although showing little desire for keeping in touch with Kelley for all those months, suddenly runs to LA.
It made no sense.
When Thad showed up at Kelley’s game declaring he’s there to stay, it felt rushed and embarrassing, honestly. It's a hook-up you hardly talked to in 6 months and then suddenly it's 'hello honey, I'm home'?
Like, what?
If at least they talked a lot in the meantime.
If at least there were intense pining and wanting to be together, all the time.
That would've justified everything, but Thad, even though he sounds really mature in the beginning, is only fresh out of college and he just didn't seem like the perfect fit for Kelley, who is a very endearing character, he's thinking serious relationship , marriage, kids, all the works, and I don't think Thad was there yet.
Not to mention leaving so many things hanging out in the open, like Thad's family, his brother, his financial situation, Brady jumping in all the time - it's too much for something that was supposed to be a simple love story.
The book began with so much promise, but the development never matched that initial setup, I didn't see Thad as being an agent at all, I thought he'd become Kelley's assistant and just went to live with him, really milk that good sex and chemistry while it was hot, but their love story is leaving me disappointed.
November 10, 2024
4.5-4.75***
Thad and Kelley are my babies and nothing will ever change my mind.
I was a bit skeptical at first because Thad’s attitude as getting on my nerves a bit. I may be slightly more sensitive to it because I have very similar anxiety to Kelley, so my heart was sad.
However, you really get to see him and his experiences and understanding where someone of his negativity is coming from. Not only were his dreams crushed, he has a lot of guilt related to his family. Plus- no one likes feeling like they aren’t good enough, and to have it so obviously in your face? Definitely can spawn some resentment.
But his character growth was one of my favorite things about this book. He went from being very self centered to being such a strong base and support to Kelley.
Kelley is my precious sweetie- and I will hear no wrongs about him ever- and I just wanted to tell him it will all be okay. When you’re constantly bombarded with anxiety and fear, that can be so crippling. The way his mental spiral was written was so genuine and relatable. It’s like plucking this thoughts out of my own head. And the way Thad was able to help him get out of it in different settings, especially intimately was really positive for me.
Not only do I love these guys, I really enjoyed seeing Brady and Damon in this story. I miss them and want to see them all the time. I am also extremely curious about book 2???? I am thinking Archer and Lincoln? But also maybe something with Zaka in the future?
Overall this book was lovely and I am excited to read the next one with it comes out.
Thad and Kelley are my babies and nothing will ever change my mind.
I was a bit skeptical at first because Thad’s attitude as getting on my nerves a bit. I may be slightly more sensitive to it because I have very similar anxiety to Kelley, so my heart was sad.
However, you really get to see him and his experiences and understanding where someone of his negativity is coming from. Not only were his dreams crushed, he has a lot of guilt related to his family. Plus- no one likes feeling like they aren’t good enough, and to have it so obviously in your face? Definitely can spawn some resentment.
But his character growth was one of my favorite things about this book. He went from being very self centered to being such a strong base and support to Kelley.
Kelley is my precious sweetie- and I will hear no wrongs about him ever- and I just wanted to tell him it will all be okay. When you’re constantly bombarded with anxiety and fear, that can be so crippling. The way his mental spiral was written was so genuine and relatable. It’s like plucking this thoughts out of my own head. And the way Thad was able to help him get out of it in different settings, especially intimately was really positive for me.
Not only do I love these guys, I really enjoyed seeing Brady and Damon in this story. I miss them and want to see them all the time. I am also extremely curious about book 2???? I am thinking Archer and Lincoln? But also maybe something with Zaka in the future?
Overall this book was lovely and I am excited to read the next one with it comes out.
June 16, 2025
3.5 Stars..it’s so nice to read a solo work by Eden Finley!
There is a huge cast of characters here to get to know, and that made this book a little co fusing for me since it’s been awhile since I last read her Fake Boyfriend series.
I really couldn’t stand Thad, the intern, at the beginning and I set this book aside for a few weeks. I decided to give it another go and I’m glad I stuck it out. Thad soon redeemed himself and all was right.
Overall, a good story with a couple of scenes with Kelly pitching.
There is a huge cast of characters here to get to know, and that made this book a little co fusing for me since it’s been awhile since I last read her Fake Boyfriend series.
I really couldn’t stand Thad, the intern, at the beginning and I set this book aside for a few weeks. I decided to give it another go and I’m glad I stuck it out. Thad soon redeemed himself and all was right.
Overall, a good story with a couple of scenes with Kelly pitching.
Read
November 10, 2024I don’t have the patience for this one. DNF at 10%.
November 9, 2024
Ate this up ngl
October 14, 2024
3.5/5 (advanced copy)
I generally enjoyed this book. I particularly liked Kelley as a character and found his anxiety very relatable. Thad was a harder character for me to grasp. He flipped his attitude very abruptly from being resentful and not trying at his internship to being much more empathetic and working hard with late hours. It seemed too sudden for me.
After the first two weeks of forced proximity, it didn't really seem like Thad and Kelley talked to each other very much or spend that much time together. Like, you saw the spark at the beginning but not the real connection. I felt like it made the whole Thad not quite earned. Also, in general, I thought the timeline was a bit wibbly-wobbly.
I generally enjoyed this book. I particularly liked Kelley as a character and found his anxiety very relatable. Thad was a harder character for me to grasp. He flipped his attitude very abruptly from being resentful and not trying at his internship to being much more empathetic and working hard with late hours. It seemed too sudden for me.
After the first two weeks of forced proximity, it didn't really seem like Thad and Kelley talked to each other very much or spend that much time together. Like, you saw the spark at the beginning but not the real connection. I felt like it made the whole Thad not quite earned. Also, in general, I thought the timeline was a bit wibbly-wobbly.
April 21, 2025
All Thad St. James wanted in life was to play Pro Baseball. However, as time went on and his college career progressed, he came to the realization that maybe he just wasn’t good enough. Being a Sports Agent was his second choice though, and that’s how he’s found himself interning with the largest queer focused sports agency in the country, King Sports. Unfortunately, his first main assignment is babysitting Kelley Afton, the Rookie Pitcher for Philly, who desperately cannot stop looking himself up online, with another intern, Brady Talon. Thad is trying his best not to let his bitterness towards not going pro affect his opinion of Kelley but it doesn’t work (at first), and baseball in general. Kelley’s constant need of reassurance due to his anxiety may drive Thad crazy... or does it?
Oh my God. When this ARC came into my inbox, I screamed. I never thought I would get an ARC for Eden Finley and what a first one to get! There are not NEARLY enough Baseball Romances and I was SO ready for this one. AND!!! Brady comes back! If you’ve read Can’t Say Goodbye, you’ve met him, he’s Talon and Miller’s (Blindsided), son! I was so excited to see him and Damon (Fake Out) again. Literally Eden put most of my favorite Finely-Verse Characters in this book and I am thrilled. This book had me hooked. I absolutely loved Thad and Kelley. The anxiety representation was fantastic as well. I really felt seen with that aspect of the book. All in all, this was a very sweet baseball romance and I am so happy and honored I was able to read it early!
Oh my God. When this ARC came into my inbox, I screamed. I never thought I would get an ARC for Eden Finley and what a first one to get! There are not NEARLY enough Baseball Romances and I was SO ready for this one. AND!!! Brady comes back! If you’ve read Can’t Say Goodbye, you’ve met him, he’s Talon and Miller’s (Blindsided), son! I was so excited to see him and Damon (Fake Out) again. Literally Eden put most of my favorite Finely-Verse Characters in this book and I am thrilled. This book had me hooked. I absolutely loved Thad and Kelley. The anxiety representation was fantastic as well. I really felt seen with that aspect of the book. All in all, this was a very sweet baseball romance and I am so happy and honored I was able to read it early!
November 6, 2024
⭐️: 7/10 🌶️: 2,5/5 😭: 1/5 🤣: 2/5
Relationship dynamic: Male - Male
Available on Kindle Unlimited
POV: 1st Dual
Tropes:
❤️ Dislike to love
💚 Close proximity
❤️ Off limits
💚 Softball
“My actual blanket might feel suffocating, but with Thad on top of me, I’ve never breathed easier in my life.”
(ENG) Finally, the series we've all been waiting for has arrived! Those of us who read Can't Say Goodbye already had an idea of where the plot would go. Even so, it's a book that can be read and enjoyed without having read any of the Sadenverse.
The story follows Thad and Kelley, who have a rocky start to their relationship. However, living together forces them to realize they're not as different as they thought. The plot spans several months, allowing us to see how their bond develops.
Both characters are just the sweetest. It's so lovely to see how they help each other to grow, and they make a truly beautiful couple to read about.
I have to say, I don't know anything about softball, so I found the scenes where it's the main focus a bit long. They did distract me a bit from the reading, and I'm afraid that lowered my rating a little.
I really enjoyed seeing Damon and Brady take part in the story.
A great start to the series that has me looking forward to the next book already (and I'm going to reread Fakeboyfriends!).
(ESP) Por fin llegó la serie que tanto hemos esperado!!! Y aquellos que leímos Can’t say goodbye ya teníamos una idea de por dónde iría la trama. Aún así, es un libro que puede perfectamente leerse y disfrutarse sin haber leído nada del Sadenverse.
En esta historia tenemos a Thad y a Kelley quienes tienen un inicio de relación bastante difícil pero siendo obligados a convivir empezarán a descubrir que no son tan distintos como suponían. La trama sucede a lo largo de varios meses lo que nos permite ver cómo se va desarrollando el vínculo que los une y eso siempre suma.
Ambos personajes son muy dulces y es notorio como se ayudan el uno al otro a crecer formando una pareja muy bella de leer.
De igual modo, no sabiendo nada de softball me resultaron un tanto extensas las escenas en donde este deporte es la estrella, eso me distrajo un poco de la lectura y bajar un poco la puntuación.
Hay mucha participación de Damon y Brady y eso me encantó!
Un buen inicio de serie que nos deja queriendo leer ya el próximo libro (y yendo a releer fakeboyfriends!).
Relationship dynamic: Male - Male
Available on Kindle Unlimited
POV: 1st Dual
Tropes:
❤️ Dislike to love
💚 Close proximity
❤️ Off limits
💚 Softball
“My actual blanket might feel suffocating, but with Thad on top of me, I’ve never breathed easier in my life.”
(ENG) Finally, the series we've all been waiting for has arrived! Those of us who read Can't Say Goodbye already had an idea of where the plot would go. Even so, it's a book that can be read and enjoyed without having read any of the Sadenverse.
The story follows Thad and Kelley, who have a rocky start to their relationship. However, living together forces them to realize they're not as different as they thought. The plot spans several months, allowing us to see how their bond develops.
Both characters are just the sweetest. It's so lovely to see how they help each other to grow, and they make a truly beautiful couple to read about.
I have to say, I don't know anything about softball, so I found the scenes where it's the main focus a bit long. They did distract me a bit from the reading, and I'm afraid that lowered my rating a little.
I really enjoyed seeing Damon and Brady take part in the story.
A great start to the series that has me looking forward to the next book already (and I'm going to reread Fakeboyfriends!).
(ESP) Por fin llegó la serie que tanto hemos esperado!!! Y aquellos que leímos Can’t say goodbye ya teníamos una idea de por dónde iría la trama. Aún así, es un libro que puede perfectamente leerse y disfrutarse sin haber leído nada del Sadenverse.
En esta historia tenemos a Thad y a Kelley quienes tienen un inicio de relación bastante difícil pero siendo obligados a convivir empezarán a descubrir que no son tan distintos como suponían. La trama sucede a lo largo de varios meses lo que nos permite ver cómo se va desarrollando el vínculo que los une y eso siempre suma.
Ambos personajes son muy dulces y es notorio como se ayudan el uno al otro a crecer formando una pareja muy bella de leer.
De igual modo, no sabiendo nada de softball me resultaron un tanto extensas las escenas en donde este deporte es la estrella, eso me distrajo un poco de la lectura y bajar un poco la puntuación.
Hay mucha participación de Damon y Brady y eso me encantó!
Un buen inicio de serie que nos deja queriendo leer ya el próximo libro (y yendo a releer fakeboyfriends!).
November 12, 2024
So, let’s talk about how Thad and Kelly go from “barely tolerating each other” to “hookup because boredom” to “friends with benefits in a long-distance situationship” to “you are the love of my life, and I’m going to move to the other side of the county for you”. The rollercoaster, my friends!
Thad’s bitterness over Kelly having the baseball career he could only dream of? Totally understandable. Kelly’s constant need for validation? Less so, but okay, we’ll allow it because he’s drop-dead gorgeous and anxiety has no mercy.
Their dynamic is a total slow burn (with some spicy hookups thrown in because duh), and somehow, these two manage to actually learn from each other. Thad’s backup plan needed a backup at the start, but Kelly’s influence (and therapy skills?) bring some unexpected growth.
By the end, they’ve gone from barely tolerating each other to realizing they just might be perfect together. And while they’re navigating that long-distance phase, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—but hey, at least they get some earth-shattering orgasms along the way. Magical cure, anyone?
Also, petty revenge involving a tattoo? Thad, honey, we need to talk about this. 🙃 That display of possessiveness hit me just right but let's not make a habit of it, ok? 🤣🤣🤣🤣
The progression of their relationship feels natural, even if it starts off rocky. And while I expected a little more drama (where’s the chaos?!), I have to say, the “can't stand you-to-lovers” journey here is satisfyingly real. Plus, we get a nice connection to Can’t Say Goodbye (I’m going to re-read it now), also, Brady’s a secret gossiper, and I’m just as shocked as you are. 😨🤣
In short, this was a fun, layered romance that surprised me more than once, even if it didn’t go full-on dramatic. Sports romance? Yeah, I’m hooked.
I think for the next book we will see Holloway and Fox falling in love. Or maybe they are going to take their competitiveness to a whole new level and are going to fight over the same person and fall in love with each other and that person ❤️😬✨😅❤️🔥❤️🔥
That for sure will make Damon to have full white hair 😅😅🤣🤣🤣🤣
Thad’s bitterness over Kelly having the baseball career he could only dream of? Totally understandable. Kelly’s constant need for validation? Less so, but okay, we’ll allow it because he’s drop-dead gorgeous and anxiety has no mercy.
Their dynamic is a total slow burn (with some spicy hookups thrown in because duh), and somehow, these two manage to actually learn from each other. Thad’s backup plan needed a backup at the start, but Kelly’s influence (and therapy skills?) bring some unexpected growth.
By the end, they’ve gone from barely tolerating each other to realizing they just might be perfect together. And while they’re navigating that long-distance phase, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—but hey, at least they get some earth-shattering orgasms along the way. Magical cure, anyone?
Also, petty revenge involving a tattoo? Thad, honey, we need to talk about this. 🙃 That display of possessiveness hit me just right but let's not make a habit of it, ok? 🤣🤣🤣🤣
The progression of their relationship feels natural, even if it starts off rocky. And while I expected a little more drama (where’s the chaos?!), I have to say, the “can't stand you-to-lovers” journey here is satisfyingly real. Plus, we get a nice connection to Can’t Say Goodbye (I’m going to re-read it now), also, Brady’s a secret gossiper, and I’m just as shocked as you are. 😨🤣
In short, this was a fun, layered romance that surprised me more than once, even if it didn’t go full-on dramatic. Sports romance? Yeah, I’m hooked.
I think for the next book we will see Holloway and Fox falling in love. Or maybe they are going to take their competitiveness to a whole new level and are going to fight over the same person and fall in love with each other and that person ❤️😬✨😅❤️🔥❤️🔥
That for sure will make Damon to have full white hair 😅😅🤣🤣🤣🤣
November 23, 2024
rep - gay mc1, gay li
tw - homophobic comment
this was alright. nice little read about a love could be controversial in professional sports.
i very much liked the main characters. the depiction of anxiety was not bad. some aspects could have been more developped but seeing other characters from the sandenverse made up of it !
tw - homophobic comment
this was alright. nice little read about a love could be controversial in professional sports.
i very much liked the main characters. the depiction of anxiety was not bad. some aspects could have been more developped but seeing other characters from the sandenverse made up of it !
d-n-f
December 18, 2024Welp. I think I'm finally done with the Sadenverse. I couldn't get more than a few chapters in. It seems like a lot of internal monologue and boring shit I really don't care about. There are too many awesome mm books that can hold my interest or surprise me to keep suffering through this...whatever this is.
November 6, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book and could not be happier that it was my first ARC ever. I have been a huge fan of Eden’s since first reading “Fake Out.” I have devoured everything since!!!
I felt an immediate draw to Damon in that first book and it is beyond exciting to begin reading about his agency in this first installment.
It sounds slightly crazy and possibly cliche, but even though I am not a professional MLB (or even remotely close) I connected with Kelley and his anxiety and self worth. While there were some amazingly funny anecdotes revolving around it, I could relate to it. Then you have Thad who is described as amazingly hot but angry (which makes him hotter in my opinion) but I digress. The way they find their love is so sweet, funny, and downright adorable it makes me want to send Eden my therapy bills.
Another fantastic read and I CANNOT WAIT for more from this series.
Now if you excuse me, I will be going back to read “Fake Out” as I freaking love the Sadenverse.
PS I will also be anxiously awaiting the audio version as they NEVER DISAPPOINT!!! Not gonna lie, if it’s Alexander and Iggy narrating, I’m pretty sure I already know who is gonna voice who LOL!!!!
I felt an immediate draw to Damon in that first book and it is beyond exciting to begin reading about his agency in this first installment.
It sounds slightly crazy and possibly cliche, but even though I am not a professional MLB (or even remotely close) I connected with Kelley and his anxiety and self worth. While there were some amazingly funny anecdotes revolving around it, I could relate to it. Then you have Thad who is described as amazingly hot but angry (which makes him hotter in my opinion) but I digress. The way they find their love is so sweet, funny, and downright adorable it makes me want to send Eden my therapy bills.
Another fantastic read and I CANNOT WAIT for more from this series.
Now if you excuse me, I will be going back to read “Fake Out” as I freaking love the Sadenverse.
PS I will also be anxiously awaiting the audio version as they NEVER DISAPPOINT!!! Not gonna lie, if it’s Alexander and Iggy narrating, I’m pretty sure I already know who is gonna voice who LOL!!!!
November 13, 2024
“Ever since that night you promised me I could be myself around you, I’ve believed it. I’ve lived it. Out of everything in my life I could get anxiety over, loving you isn’t on the list”
EXCUSE ME WHILE I GO UGLY CRY
EXCUSE ME WHILE I GO UGLY CRY
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