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Renegade Rift
She’s his wife. He’s my step-brother. But I saw her first.
Julietta is the reason I volunteered to be drafted to the Renegades baseball team.
That, and the enormous guilt I harbor for failing to fix things with Tyler before he died in the crash that took the lives of his team.
Which is why I vow to honor his legacy and do the next best thing. Protect and provide for his wife.
Only Juliet doesn’t want a damn thing to do with me. Or anyone for that matter. She disappeared off the face of the earth.
After nearly a year of searching for her, it’s only when my teammates hire a cleaning service for my apartment that I find her—topless and looking far more gorgeous than I remember.
But not everything is as it seems, and the more time I spend with her, the more I learn Juliet has secrets. The kind not even money or my persistent optimism can fix.
But she’s determined, and I’ll do anything to help her. Even teach her to move on.
The only question, is my guilt enough to stop me from falling in love with her? Especially when this time there’s no one standing in my way.
Julietta is the reason I volunteered to be drafted to the Renegades baseball team.
That, and the enormous guilt I harbor for failing to fix things with Tyler before he died in the crash that took the lives of his team.
Which is why I vow to honor his legacy and do the next best thing. Protect and provide for his wife.
Only Juliet doesn’t want a damn thing to do with me. Or anyone for that matter. She disappeared off the face of the earth.
After nearly a year of searching for her, it’s only when my teammates hire a cleaning service for my apartment that I find her—topless and looking far more gorgeous than I remember.
But not everything is as it seems, and the more time I spend with her, the more I learn Juliet has secrets. The kind not even money or my persistent optimism can fix.
But she’s determined, and I’ll do anything to help her. Even teach her to move on.
The only question, is my guilt enough to stop me from falling in love with her? Especially when this time there’s no one standing in my way.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2025
16 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
May 29, 2025
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
I am telling you this series is completely underrated. This book had so much emotion and such a great story and I absolutely loved every single second of it.
Ford and Juliet had such a deep bond and watching them build their relationship brick by brick was so good. I could not put this book down.
And when we talk about a delicious slow burn, that was so so satisfying.
✨ Baseball Romance
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Love after Loss
✨ Golden Retriever FMC
✨ Roomates to Lovers
✨ “teach me”
I had high expectations for this one and it met every single one. This series starts on the most unique premise I have every read, and I love the team and found family vibes with the Renegades.
Juiet and Ford have such star crossed lovers vibes, and the way he cared for her... goodness it melted my heart.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
I am telling you this series is completely underrated. This book had so much emotion and such a great story and I absolutely loved every single second of it.
Ford and Juliet had such a deep bond and watching them build their relationship brick by brick was so good. I could not put this book down.
And when we talk about a delicious slow burn, that was so so satisfying.
✨ Baseball Romance
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Love after Loss
✨ Golden Retriever FMC
✨ Roomates to Lovers
✨ “teach me”
I had high expectations for this one and it met every single one. This series starts on the most unique premise I have every read, and I love the team and found family vibes with the Renegades.
Juiet and Ford have such star crossed lovers vibes, and the way he cared for her... goodness it melted my heart.
May 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️
Well if this wasn’t just an easy, cute, fun read that I wasn’t expecting but thoroughly enjoyed ! Believe me, there are some topics that are HEAVY. A lot of pain on both sides of this relationship. A lot of things left unsaid that they need to work through.. but boy, did they just WORK.
Etta (formerly Juliet) has lost her husband, she’s broke, in trouble with her husbands debts, and needs to just make enough money to survive. So she takes a job as a topless maid. Easy money, easy job, no commitment.
Until she ends up topless cleaning her late husbands stepbrothers apartment. Not only has Ford been looking for her for SO long, with no luck, but now she’s cleaning his apartment.. almost naked.
These two were like watching a Hallmark movie unfold. Just pure GOOD. Purely sweet, and a little comedic relief from the hard times with a hilariously grumpy cat. I love that lil f*cker.
You don’t have to worry about weither these two will ever happen because the way they fall in love and just let things.. happen? Well, it was beautiful. It was so easy. So natural. Like breathing.
I really needed an easy read right now and this is just what Rift gave me. No stress, a fun game of D&D, a lot of banter, some great friends, a very sexy game of dice, a lot of great conversation between the MCs and a walking, talking, green flag of a baseball player who has a lot of love for his girl, his (late) mama, and for being the best caregiver there is. He also WRITES WORDS IN THE DIRT next to his base (superstitious? Maybe) but man oh man were they sweet. Sad, sometimes, but so sweet too.
Check TWs as some topics may be triggering for you (but I hope not) BRING ON BOOK 3! Because I can NOT wait after all those tidbits 🙂↕️
🌶️🌶️
Well if this wasn’t just an easy, cute, fun read that I wasn’t expecting but thoroughly enjoyed ! Believe me, there are some topics that are HEAVY. A lot of pain on both sides of this relationship. A lot of things left unsaid that they need to work through.. but boy, did they just WORK.
Etta (formerly Juliet) has lost her husband, she’s broke, in trouble with her husbands debts, and needs to just make enough money to survive. So she takes a job as a topless maid. Easy money, easy job, no commitment.
Until she ends up topless cleaning her late husbands stepbrothers apartment. Not only has Ford been looking for her for SO long, with no luck, but now she’s cleaning his apartment.. almost naked.
These two were like watching a Hallmark movie unfold. Just pure GOOD. Purely sweet, and a little comedic relief from the hard times with a hilariously grumpy cat. I love that lil f*cker.
You don’t have to worry about weither these two will ever happen because the way they fall in love and just let things.. happen? Well, it was beautiful. It was so easy. So natural. Like breathing.
I really needed an easy read right now and this is just what Rift gave me. No stress, a fun game of D&D, a lot of banter, some great friends, a very sexy game of dice, a lot of great conversation between the MCs and a walking, talking, green flag of a baseball player who has a lot of love for his girl, his (late) mama, and for being the best caregiver there is. He also WRITES WORDS IN THE DIRT next to his base (superstitious? Maybe) but man oh man were they sweet. Sad, sometimes, but so sweet too.
Check TWs as some topics may be triggering for you (but I hope not) BRING ON BOOK 3! Because I can NOT wait after all those tidbits 🙂↕️
May 16, 2025
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
💚Golden Retriever Hero
⚾️Baseball Romance
💚love after loss
⚾️found family
💚step brothers widow
⚾️he falls first
💚autoimmune rep
⚾️dual POV
Renegade Rift from author Hayden Locke is book 2 in the Draft series. This book can be read as a complete standalone however some of the minor characters do overlap so for better reading experience best to read in order. Renegade Rift gives us the story of Juliet and Ford McCoy and I gobbled it up
Our FMC, Etta, previously known as Juliet, has been living a hard life. She lost her husband, but not only that, she is utterly broke. You would think as the widow of a professional athlete she’d be ok… but oh no.. her husband owes so much many to debt and she’s forced to take a job as a topless maid… easy money. Until she runs into her next client….Ford McCoy, her husbands step brother.
Ford McCoy has been on the hunt for Juliet for years now. But she was impossible to find. He never really had a good relationship with his step brother but wants to be there for Juliet. When Ford learns of her troubles and the type of man his step brother really was he vows to protect and be there for Juliet.
I loved watching their relationship unfold. It wasn’t easy they had to muddle through everything her ex had done, Ford was so understanding and tried to help her whether with her illness or just a job. He was just so sweet and caring.
I also loved all the antics between the text banter. The dungeons and dragons, the spice, and the side characters were equally great.
This was such a fun and easily enjoyable read like a new sports rom com movie and I enjoyed every moment.
Tropes:
💚Golden Retriever Hero
⚾️Baseball Romance
💚love after loss
⚾️found family
💚step brothers widow
⚾️he falls first
💚autoimmune rep
⚾️dual POV
Renegade Rift from author Hayden Locke is book 2 in the Draft series. This book can be read as a complete standalone however some of the minor characters do overlap so for better reading experience best to read in order. Renegade Rift gives us the story of Juliet and Ford McCoy and I gobbled it up
Our FMC, Etta, previously known as Juliet, has been living a hard life. She lost her husband, but not only that, she is utterly broke. You would think as the widow of a professional athlete she’d be ok… but oh no.. her husband owes so much many to debt and she’s forced to take a job as a topless maid… easy money. Until she runs into her next client….Ford McCoy, her husbands step brother.
Ford McCoy has been on the hunt for Juliet for years now. But she was impossible to find. He never really had a good relationship with his step brother but wants to be there for Juliet. When Ford learns of her troubles and the type of man his step brother really was he vows to protect and be there for Juliet.
I loved watching their relationship unfold. It wasn’t easy they had to muddle through everything her ex had done, Ford was so understanding and tried to help her whether with her illness or just a job. He was just so sweet and caring.
I also loved all the antics between the text banter. The dungeons and dragons, the spice, and the side characters were equally great.
This was such a fun and easily enjoyable read like a new sports rom com movie and I enjoyed every moment.
May 18, 2025
It is very rare for me to give a book 4, or even 5 stars. But this one deserves every bit of the 4 stars I gave it. Sports romances are hands down my favorite to read. But what set this book apart was Juliet’s (Etta’s) story line. The fact that she had an autoimmune condition that wrecked her body depending on her stress levels and what she ate had me sobbing because I too have an autoimmune disorder (not Hashimoto’s) that has the same effect on me. Hayden did such an amazing job not only describing the autoimmune disorder, but the emotional and mental aspect that an autoimmune disorder can have on someone. But the way that Ford swooped in, learned everything there was to know about her condition, and then did everything in his power to help her through the hard days and make sure the food around her was always safe, that melted my freaking heart. Along with watching them both overcome trauma and loss and healing each other in the only way they know how… caring for and trusting each other when everyone and everything else seems too overwhelming and hard. This story captured my heart and I was not ready for it to come to an end.
May 19, 2025
Julietta & Ford.
Ford is your nerdy baseball player, the stepbrother to Tyler. Tyler, Julietta's former husband. If you haven't read the first books no worries this one has a little recap in the beginning which I loved. No muss, no fuss, just information.
Which leads us into where Julietta, now Etta is.
Etta is working two jobs to make up the debt that her late husband left her. P.S. Tyler is kind of a POS but I digress. Etta is working as a cleaning lady & at a bar making tips but it isn't enough to make the debt go away.
Ford has been looking for Julietta since Tyler passed. She all but disappeared. Until she shows up at his apartment, which really needed to be cleaned.
They end up hanging out and becoming friends while she helps him re-organize his life literally and figurately. Ford helps Julietta find herself again, getting her sexy back.
I really enjoyed this book because it wasn't your typical widow falling for the step sibling. It had depth, layers of story, and a great ending.
Ford is your nerdy baseball player, the stepbrother to Tyler. Tyler, Julietta's former husband. If you haven't read the first books no worries this one has a little recap in the beginning which I loved. No muss, no fuss, just information.
Which leads us into where Julietta, now Etta is.
Etta is working two jobs to make up the debt that her late husband left her. P.S. Tyler is kind of a POS but I digress. Etta is working as a cleaning lady & at a bar making tips but it isn't enough to make the debt go away.
Ford has been looking for Julietta since Tyler passed. She all but disappeared. Until she shows up at his apartment, which really needed to be cleaned.
They end up hanging out and becoming friends while she helps him re-organize his life literally and figurately. Ford helps Julietta find herself again, getting her sexy back.
I really enjoyed this book because it wasn't your typical widow falling for the step sibling. It had depth, layers of story, and a great ending.
May 20, 2025
This is the second book in this impressive series, and this is Julietta / Etta and Ford’s story.
Ford regrets not making things right before his stepbrother Tyler passes, and he is determined to help his widow Julietta, but she disappears. A year later, Ford’s teammates hire a cleaning service for his apartment, and he crosses paths with Etta in the most unexpected way. Etta was left with all off her husbands’ debts, and when Ford finds out how she was treated at Tyler’s hands, he is more determined and persistent to help her move on from her past.
This is a well written emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, loss, guilt, regrets, secrets, lies, heartbreak, humor, witty banter, healing, palpable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, baseball romance.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
Ford regrets not making things right before his stepbrother Tyler passes, and he is determined to help his widow Julietta, but she disappears. A year later, Ford’s teammates hire a cleaning service for his apartment, and he crosses paths with Etta in the most unexpected way. Etta was left with all off her husbands’ debts, and when Ford finds out how she was treated at Tyler’s hands, he is more determined and persistent to help her move on from her past.
This is a well written emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, loss, guilt, regrets, secrets, lies, heartbreak, humor, witty banter, healing, palpable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, baseball romance.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
May 20, 2025
Every time I have picked up a book by Hayden I have been broke apart a little and put back together again.
What to expect:
⚾️Love After Loss
🖤Step Brothers Widow
⚾️Golden Retriever Hero
🖤Autoimmune Rep
⚾️Professional Baseball
Ford and Juliet’s story was such a journey, with so much healing all throughout. I loved getting to know Ford, and seeing the Renegades in a whole new way. And of course while visiting all of my favorite characters from past books! Because this is a journey of reconnection of dealing with past trauma/grief this is a bit of a “slow burn” but it totally worth the wait! Even packed full of emotions this book made me swoon so hard for Ford, he is a golden retriever but also has a filthy mouth. ALSO THIS COVER, it needs a moment because 🥵
4.5 stars
What to expect:
⚾️Love After Loss
🖤Step Brothers Widow
⚾️Golden Retriever Hero
🖤Autoimmune Rep
⚾️Professional Baseball
Ford and Juliet’s story was such a journey, with so much healing all throughout. I loved getting to know Ford, and seeing the Renegades in a whole new way. And of course while visiting all of my favorite characters from past books! Because this is a journey of reconnection of dealing with past trauma/grief this is a bit of a “slow burn” but it totally worth the wait! Even packed full of emotions this book made me swoon so hard for Ford, he is a golden retriever but also has a filthy mouth. ALSO THIS COVER, it needs a moment because 🥵
4.5 stars
May 25, 2025
Renegade Rift was the first book I read by Author Hayden Locke. Based on some Author's notes, however, I did go back and read the prequel first and have read some of the first book in the series to get some background.
Hayden does summarise what happens in those books, however, I think it will be really good to read them so get more of the context around the Renegades.
This book is set one year after events from the first book and everyone is still trying to come to terms with what happened. Especially Juliet. She went into hiding after losing her husband, so that the people after her for her late husband's debts, wouldn’t come after the people she cared about. Then there's Ford. Recruited to the Renegades, he has been looking for Juliet for the better part of the year. When he wasn’t able to make amends with this Step-Brother, he was determined to be there for Juliet, or Etta as she calls herself now.
When they do come face-to-face after so long, it wasn’t what either of them suspected. The shock of them both was amusing and I loved Ford's reaction. Etta's reaction was a little bit different. Ford's character was super sweet and he really did want to help take care of Etta. His concern for why she had the job she had was endearing and he was struggling to understand how she was put in this position in the first place.
Etta has an auto immune disease that is debilitating to her depending on her stress levels and food. This was handled exceptionally well and with respect and once Ford finds out, he goes out of his way to research what Eta has and it is through this that we are also able to understand what the disease is.
This book delves into real life issues and allows the reader to relate to the characters. Juliet can be short and defensive with Ford in the beginning, but she has been through a lot and you can understand why her reactions are the way they are.
While this book deals with some tough topics, the easy-going nature of Ford is a refreshing contrast. There is strong character development and Ford and Juliet's relationship develops organically. They slowly being to trust each other and a friendship develops first before they become something more. Hayden writes with emotion and I had to grab the tissues more than once! We also learn the backstory of how Juliet found herself in the situation she was in and you imagine that this type of thing happens with professional athletes when they virtually have everything at their fingertips.
I really quite enjoyed this book, it was full of emotion, healing and redemption. I am so glad I picked this book up and I am looking forward to reading the rest in this series.
Hayden does summarise what happens in those books, however, I think it will be really good to read them so get more of the context around the Renegades.
This book is set one year after events from the first book and everyone is still trying to come to terms with what happened. Especially Juliet. She went into hiding after losing her husband, so that the people after her for her late husband's debts, wouldn’t come after the people she cared about. Then there's Ford. Recruited to the Renegades, he has been looking for Juliet for the better part of the year. When he wasn’t able to make amends with this Step-Brother, he was determined to be there for Juliet, or Etta as she calls herself now.
When they do come face-to-face after so long, it wasn’t what either of them suspected. The shock of them both was amusing and I loved Ford's reaction. Etta's reaction was a little bit different. Ford's character was super sweet and he really did want to help take care of Etta. His concern for why she had the job she had was endearing and he was struggling to understand how she was put in this position in the first place.
Etta has an auto immune disease that is debilitating to her depending on her stress levels and food. This was handled exceptionally well and with respect and once Ford finds out, he goes out of his way to research what Eta has and it is through this that we are also able to understand what the disease is.
This book delves into real life issues and allows the reader to relate to the characters. Juliet can be short and defensive with Ford in the beginning, but she has been through a lot and you can understand why her reactions are the way they are.
While this book deals with some tough topics, the easy-going nature of Ford is a refreshing contrast. There is strong character development and Ford and Juliet's relationship develops organically. They slowly being to trust each other and a friendship develops first before they become something more. Hayden writes with emotion and I had to grab the tissues more than once! We also learn the backstory of how Juliet found herself in the situation she was in and you imagine that this type of thing happens with professional athletes when they virtually have everything at their fingertips.
I really quite enjoyed this book, it was full of emotion, healing and redemption. I am so glad I picked this book up and I am looking forward to reading the rest in this series.
Read
May 20, 2025Renegade Rift, by Hayden Locke, is the second book in the Draft series. While this book can be enjoyed on its own, it’s recommended to read it in sequence since certain supporting characters appear in multiple installments. I consumed the tale of Juliet and Ford McCoy that Renegade Rift shared with us.
After her husband's passing, Etta (previously Juliet) finds herself broke, struggling to pay off his debts and just managing to get by. As a result, she consents to take a job as a topless cleaner. Simple work, simple cash, and minimal commitment.
She occupies herself tidying her deceased husband's stepbrother's apartment while not wearing a top. Besides the reality that Ford has been searching for her unsuccessfully for a long time, she is now cleaning his apartment while almost naked.
She finds herself tidying up her deceased husband's stepbrother's apartment while topless. Besides the reality that Ford has been searching for her unsuccessfully for quite a while, she is now tidying up his apartment while almost undressed.
Ford McCoy has been searching for Juliet for many years now. However, locating her proved to be impossible. He never truly had a strong bond with his stepbrother, yet he wishes to support Juliet. When Ford discovers her difficulties and the true nature of his stepbrother, he promises to safeguard and support Juliet.
She assists him in both tangible and symbolic ways to restructure his life, and they eventually start spending time together and develop a friendship. Ford helps Julietta reclaim her confidence by assisting her in rediscovering her true self.
I liked watching how their bond evolved. Ford was quite compassionate and took steps to help her, whether it involved dealing with her illness or just securing employment, even though enduring the aftermath of her ex's actions wasn't simple. He was very gentle and thoughtful.
It felt as if a Hallmark movie was playing out for these two. Truly outstanding. An exquisitely grumpy cat that is utterly delightful and offers a bit of humor during challenging moments. That tiny little guy is my favorite.
After her husband's passing, Etta (previously Juliet) finds herself broke, struggling to pay off his debts and just managing to get by. As a result, she consents to take a job as a topless cleaner. Simple work, simple cash, and minimal commitment.
She occupies herself tidying her deceased husband's stepbrother's apartment while not wearing a top. Besides the reality that Ford has been searching for her unsuccessfully for a long time, she is now cleaning his apartment while almost naked.
She finds herself tidying up her deceased husband's stepbrother's apartment while topless. Besides the reality that Ford has been searching for her unsuccessfully for quite a while, she is now tidying up his apartment while almost undressed.
Ford McCoy has been searching for Juliet for many years now. However, locating her proved to be impossible. He never truly had a strong bond with his stepbrother, yet he wishes to support Juliet. When Ford discovers her difficulties and the true nature of his stepbrother, he promises to safeguard and support Juliet.
She assists him in both tangible and symbolic ways to restructure his life, and they eventually start spending time together and develop a friendship. Ford helps Julietta reclaim her confidence by assisting her in rediscovering her true self.
I liked watching how their bond evolved. Ford was quite compassionate and took steps to help her, whether it involved dealing with her illness or just securing employment, even though enduring the aftermath of her ex's actions wasn't simple. He was very gentle and thoughtful.
It felt as if a Hallmark movie was playing out for these two. Truly outstanding. An exquisitely grumpy cat that is utterly delightful and offers a bit of humor during challenging moments. That tiny little guy is my favorite.
June 16, 2025
Spice: 3
Tropes:
baseball romance
found family
golden retriever MMC
autoimmune rep
stepbrother's widow
Dual POV
Triggers Warnings:
past DV
Ford, Ford, Ford. I was not expecting to love you like I did, lol. I always love a golden retriever MMC, but you truly hit it out of the park, pun intended, sir. You came in out of left field, with your crystals, and needing to find your missing sister-in-law, and managed to steal our hearts so quickly, we just never saw it coming. Then men in the Draft Series books are some of my absolute favorites this year with their emotional baggage and healing. I seriously love this series.
Here in book 2, we have Ford, who volunteered to join the Renegades. His ex-stepbrother was one of the team players who passed away in the plane crash. Ford regrets never making amends with his brother before hand and has set out to find his sister-in-law who has disappeared after the accident. He believes it's his responsibility to make sure she's taken care of now. But how do you find someone who doesn't want to be found?
Julietta, Juliet, Etta... you're almost a black cat, only I'd say more, 'fraidy cat. And girl I get it. You were put through a ringer during your marriage and now that your husband has passed in the accident, he's still controlling your life from the grave. But what I loved about Etta was how strong she was, knew she needed to be, and was taking control of her life. Was all her decisions the best? Maybe not, but for her, in those moments, they had to be. Juliet, on the other hand, was open to putting herself back out there and letting herself be vulnerable again, and cutting those ties holding her down. I loved her.
The dance that Juliet and Ford tip toed around was beautiful. I really enjoyed watching them both work through their baggage and come to a beautiful healing place for each of them. That's what I love about these books. While they're romance, they're also packed with emotions, and a great plot! I can't wait till book 3, I hope we get a Mercer story in the future..... :D
Tropes:
baseball romance
found family
golden retriever MMC
autoimmune rep
stepbrother's widow
Dual POV
Triggers Warnings:
past DV
Ford, Ford, Ford. I was not expecting to love you like I did, lol. I always love a golden retriever MMC, but you truly hit it out of the park, pun intended, sir. You came in out of left field, with your crystals, and needing to find your missing sister-in-law, and managed to steal our hearts so quickly, we just never saw it coming. Then men in the Draft Series books are some of my absolute favorites this year with their emotional baggage and healing. I seriously love this series.
Here in book 2, we have Ford, who volunteered to join the Renegades. His ex-stepbrother was one of the team players who passed away in the plane crash. Ford regrets never making amends with his brother before hand and has set out to find his sister-in-law who has disappeared after the accident. He believes it's his responsibility to make sure she's taken care of now. But how do you find someone who doesn't want to be found?
Julietta, Juliet, Etta... you're almost a black cat, only I'd say more, 'fraidy cat. And girl I get it. You were put through a ringer during your marriage and now that your husband has passed in the accident, he's still controlling your life from the grave. But what I loved about Etta was how strong she was, knew she needed to be, and was taking control of her life. Was all her decisions the best? Maybe not, but for her, in those moments, they had to be. Juliet, on the other hand, was open to putting herself back out there and letting herself be vulnerable again, and cutting those ties holding her down. I loved her.
The dance that Juliet and Ford tip toed around was beautiful. I really enjoyed watching them both work through their baggage and come to a beautiful healing place for each of them. That's what I love about these books. While they're romance, they're also packed with emotions, and a great plot! I can't wait till book 3, I hope we get a Mercer story in the future..... :D
May 23, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5)
*ARC Review*
I fell in love with the draft series when I picked up the Midnight Renegade prequel novella on a whim to ring in the New Year, and I have now been lucky enough to ARC read for Hayden for books 1 and 2 of the series.
This story was so good and I absolutely loved the journeys both Ford and Juliet went through as the book progressed.
Ford is such a sweetheart and is the ultimate golden retriever. He literally collected crystals as a placeholder while he searched for Juliet after she disappeared off the face of the planet after her husband (Ford’s ex-step brother) died in the Renegades plane crash. He did this because she mentioned in high school that she liked crystals… SWOON. He is also the biggest advocate for Juliet once she is found and I loved how he pushed her out of her comfort zone without pushing too far.
Juliette, AKA Etta, AKA Juliet is such a strong woman. My heart hurt for her and her entire situation. She deserved so much better and I’m so happy that Ford showed her that through his stability and his unwavering support of her. Her growth and overcoming her trauma was so admirable and there were so many times I wanted to reach into the book and just give her a big hug.
I loved their relationship progression and how they went from strangers to friends to fake dating, to lovers. I was giddy reading and was kicking my feet when they progressed into intimacy - which for the record, was 🔥 Their connection and chemistry was so hot and I really loved them together. I also appreciated that her trauma was not glossed over, but discussed throughout the book as triggers came up. The way Ford cared for her made my heart so happy 🥹
There was a lot of heaviness in this book, but it was definitely another story of healing and love and I cannot wait to read what comes next in the series.
Thank you Hayden and The Author Agency for the ARC! 💚
*ARC Review*
I fell in love with the draft series when I picked up the Midnight Renegade prequel novella on a whim to ring in the New Year, and I have now been lucky enough to ARC read for Hayden for books 1 and 2 of the series.
This story was so good and I absolutely loved the journeys both Ford and Juliet went through as the book progressed.
Ford is such a sweetheart and is the ultimate golden retriever. He literally collected crystals as a placeholder while he searched for Juliet after she disappeared off the face of the planet after her husband (Ford’s ex-step brother) died in the Renegades plane crash. He did this because she mentioned in high school that she liked crystals… SWOON. He is also the biggest advocate for Juliet once she is found and I loved how he pushed her out of her comfort zone without pushing too far.
Juliette, AKA Etta, AKA Juliet is such a strong woman. My heart hurt for her and her entire situation. She deserved so much better and I’m so happy that Ford showed her that through his stability and his unwavering support of her. Her growth and overcoming her trauma was so admirable and there were so many times I wanted to reach into the book and just give her a big hug.
I loved their relationship progression and how they went from strangers to friends to fake dating, to lovers. I was giddy reading and was kicking my feet when they progressed into intimacy - which for the record, was 🔥 Their connection and chemistry was so hot and I really loved them together. I also appreciated that her trauma was not glossed over, but discussed throughout the book as triggers came up. The way Ford cared for her made my heart so happy 🥹
There was a lot of heaviness in this book, but it was definitely another story of healing and love and I cannot wait to read what comes next in the series.
Thank you Hayden and The Author Agency for the ARC! 💚
May 26, 2025
Holy Freaking Ford!!
Whew this book is full of swoon, some heart punches, a delicious slow burn that brings the full on heat, the type of found family you can’t get enough of, and so much more! I was eating up every single page of this book. This is book 2 in the Draft Series and you definitely want to have read the prequel Midnight Renegades and Renegade Ruin to enjoy it the most.
Juliet and Ford are the perfect combination for a romance book and Hayden literally knocked it out of the park! They ebb and flow, push and pull, and a battle of wits at times and although the main story line takes place over a couple months, it is sorta a second chance story too. Juliet and Ford have known each other since high school and he “saw her first and fell first” but his stepbrother swooped in and took hold. After his death in the same crash that took out almost all of the former Renegades, Juliet has gone into hiding and caught up in the mess he left behind. Ford could never have known what all Juliet had been through in her marriage to Tyler and the lasting effects of his treatment of her is something Ford must learn to navigate while not trying to force her into feeling the same way he always has about her.
Piece by piece he chips away the layers just by being there for her, learning what she likes and who she is, learning about her disease, how to care for her (and boy does he do some serious caregiving!), and how to help her come to terms with what she went through and how to take back control of her life and body. There was so much tenderness and support from Ford and their training sessions were fire! The heart and soul of this relationship was communication and trust and was written beautifully. I can go on and on but you’ll want to experience it yourself!
Whew this book is full of swoon, some heart punches, a delicious slow burn that brings the full on heat, the type of found family you can’t get enough of, and so much more! I was eating up every single page of this book. This is book 2 in the Draft Series and you definitely want to have read the prequel Midnight Renegades and Renegade Ruin to enjoy it the most.
Juliet and Ford are the perfect combination for a romance book and Hayden literally knocked it out of the park! They ebb and flow, push and pull, and a battle of wits at times and although the main story line takes place over a couple months, it is sorta a second chance story too. Juliet and Ford have known each other since high school and he “saw her first and fell first” but his stepbrother swooped in and took hold. After his death in the same crash that took out almost all of the former Renegades, Juliet has gone into hiding and caught up in the mess he left behind. Ford could never have known what all Juliet had been through in her marriage to Tyler and the lasting effects of his treatment of her is something Ford must learn to navigate while not trying to force her into feeling the same way he always has about her.
Piece by piece he chips away the layers just by being there for her, learning what she likes and who she is, learning about her disease, how to care for her (and boy does he do some serious caregiving!), and how to help her come to terms with what she went through and how to take back control of her life and body. There was so much tenderness and support from Ford and their training sessions were fire! The heart and soul of this relationship was communication and trust and was written beautifully. I can go on and on but you’ll want to experience it yourself!
June 11, 2025
I loved that this book was so much more than baseball romance but a deeper journey of healing. I loved the dynamic between Juliet and Ford. Their history had them up against each other but only because Juliet was married to his stepbrother (Tyler) and constantly fed lies of who Ford was.
The ways in which Juliet became a widow was heartbreaking but knowing how much her ex had controlled her life and limited her growth was heartbreaking. Tyler was an absolute jackass, and his death meant Juliet was finally given some freedom, if only he hadn't left her in a world of debt and chaos. After years of being by Tyler's side, Juliet is finally given the chance to figure out what she wants, her likes and her dreams. She just didn't realize that this opportunity would come with the help of Ford who was trying to rebuild his rocky relationship with his stepbrother before the big accident. And in realizing a relationship with Tyler will never happen, Ford decides that Juliet his new family and takes care of her.
The connection between these two was so beautiful to watch unfold and come together. I absolutely loved how Ford let Juliet grow and have a chance to learn her wants and desires. There was never pressure from him but simply he wanted her to have the freedom to feel comfortable and try out her sexual desires. He gave her a safe place and slowly showed her he was so much more than the lies Tyler had fed her for years.
And the interactions between his teammates and her best friend were so much fun. I loved the feeling of family the Renegades were creating is why I love sports and sports romances. It's a different kind of brotherhood that I simply cannot get enough. I loved watching these characters heal from their past traumas and the accident that changed their lives completely.
The ways in which Juliet became a widow was heartbreaking but knowing how much her ex had controlled her life and limited her growth was heartbreaking. Tyler was an absolute jackass, and his death meant Juliet was finally given some freedom, if only he hadn't left her in a world of debt and chaos. After years of being by Tyler's side, Juliet is finally given the chance to figure out what she wants, her likes and her dreams. She just didn't realize that this opportunity would come with the help of Ford who was trying to rebuild his rocky relationship with his stepbrother before the big accident. And in realizing a relationship with Tyler will never happen, Ford decides that Juliet his new family and takes care of her.
The connection between these two was so beautiful to watch unfold and come together. I absolutely loved how Ford let Juliet grow and have a chance to learn her wants and desires. There was never pressure from him but simply he wanted her to have the freedom to feel comfortable and try out her sexual desires. He gave her a safe place and slowly showed her he was so much more than the lies Tyler had fed her for years.
And the interactions between his teammates and her best friend were so much fun. I loved the feeling of family the Renegades were creating is why I love sports and sports romances. It's a different kind of brotherhood that I simply cannot get enough. I loved watching these characters heal from their past traumas and the accident that changed their lives completely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2025
Renegade Rift is book number two in the Draft Series and is the story of Juliet and Ford. This is a baseball romance with friends to lovers, close proximity and found family.
Over a year ago tragedy struck and almost the entire Renegades baseball team was killed in a plane crash. Ford volunteers to be drafted to the new Renegades team as part of his guilt for not fixing things with his brother Tyler, who died in the crash. The other part is his step sister-in-law and Tylers's widow. She disappeared without a trace and Tyler has spent all of his spare time looking for her. When a chance meeting brings Juliet back into Ford's life, she wants nothing to do with him but can't tell him why. Ford makes it his mission to help Juliet and discover why she hid from him and her family.
As Juliet and Ford get to know one another, they both discover that her husband was not truthful about most of his life and they both learn that Tyler was not a good man or good person. With each passing day, Ford and Juliet find more in common and each wonders if they can chose to move on from Tyler and their pasts with him and find something together.
This book had a tragic storyline that showed the depths that even family members don't always know someone they love. The redemption of the baseball team, the comraderie of the owners, players and friends was fantastically written and personify the family is family and we take care of our own. The love story was also sweet and well written and Ford shows patience in his pursuit os Juliet but also mandated honesty in their friendship. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance with a baseball twist, good spice and communication.
Over a year ago tragedy struck and almost the entire Renegades baseball team was killed in a plane crash. Ford volunteers to be drafted to the new Renegades team as part of his guilt for not fixing things with his brother Tyler, who died in the crash. The other part is his step sister-in-law and Tylers's widow. She disappeared without a trace and Tyler has spent all of his spare time looking for her. When a chance meeting brings Juliet back into Ford's life, she wants nothing to do with him but can't tell him why. Ford makes it his mission to help Juliet and discover why she hid from him and her family.
As Juliet and Ford get to know one another, they both discover that her husband was not truthful about most of his life and they both learn that Tyler was not a good man or good person. With each passing day, Ford and Juliet find more in common and each wonders if they can chose to move on from Tyler and their pasts with him and find something together.
This book had a tragic storyline that showed the depths that even family members don't always know someone they love. The redemption of the baseball team, the comraderie of the owners, players and friends was fantastically written and personify the family is family and we take care of our own. The love story was also sweet and well written and Ford shows patience in his pursuit os Juliet but also mandated honesty in their friendship. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance with a baseball twist, good spice and communication.
June 19, 2025
Tropes:
✨Step Brother’s Widow
✨Autoimmune Rep
✨Baseball Romance
✨Found Family
I swear I fall more in love with this series with every book. This is the second book in the series. You don’t have to read the first book first, but I highly recommend it to get the whole picture as some things that happen in the first book are mentioned in this book.
I like a morally grey MMC like everyone else, but there was just something about the golden retriever in Ford that I absolutely fell head over heels in love with. And he’s a NERD. Like can we have this in more books? Because this was one of my favorite things. Baseball player who likes D&D? Like count me in! And the freaking mouth on that man. The things he said..well let’s just say I did not expect them whatsoever. But I was 1,000% here for it.
Juliette aka Etta…I felt so much for her. And let me tell you, she was put through the wringer with literally everything. And she never wavered. She is so freaking strong and too proud to ask for help. But when she receives help without asking for it, she became a whole new person and it was just so beautiful to be able to see this change. And I was so freaking proud of her for taking what she wanted.
I live by the saying you find love when you least expect it, and this book is the perfect example of that. Neither Ford nor Etta expected to fall in love. But it was so joyous to watch it all come together. They learned from each other. They grew not only as individuals but as a unit. They are just so perfect for one another.
This book has so much to offer. You get grief and how people deal with it. You get banter (so much banter). You get so much growth. This book was absolute perfection.
✨Step Brother’s Widow
✨Autoimmune Rep
✨Baseball Romance
✨Found Family
I swear I fall more in love with this series with every book. This is the second book in the series. You don’t have to read the first book first, but I highly recommend it to get the whole picture as some things that happen in the first book are mentioned in this book.
I like a morally grey MMC like everyone else, but there was just something about the golden retriever in Ford that I absolutely fell head over heels in love with. And he’s a NERD. Like can we have this in more books? Because this was one of my favorite things. Baseball player who likes D&D? Like count me in! And the freaking mouth on that man. The things he said..well let’s just say I did not expect them whatsoever. But I was 1,000% here for it.
Juliette aka Etta…I felt so much for her. And let me tell you, she was put through the wringer with literally everything. And she never wavered. She is so freaking strong and too proud to ask for help. But when she receives help without asking for it, she became a whole new person and it was just so beautiful to be able to see this change. And I was so freaking proud of her for taking what she wanted.
I live by the saying you find love when you least expect it, and this book is the perfect example of that. Neither Ford nor Etta expected to fall in love. But it was so joyous to watch it all come together. They learned from each other. They grew not only as individuals but as a unit. They are just so perfect for one another.
This book has so much to offer. You get grief and how people deal with it. You get banter (so much banter). You get so much growth. This book was absolute perfection.
May 18, 2025
** 5 + stars **
This story had me hooked from the first page. I knew from reading the blog it was going to be a good read but I couldn't imagine how intriguing it would be. It was so well-written and the characters were amazingly good.
Juliet has lost her husband who was a baseball player. She completely falls off the grid. Ford is Juliet's husband's step brother. He has been trying to find Juliet to take care of her. She is the only family he has left. Ford's teammates have hired a woman to clean his apartment. When the woman shows up he is surprised to see it is Juliet and that she works as a topless maid. Ford is so surprised to see her and begins asking her where she has been. She no longer goes by Juliet and has changed her name to Etta. She leaves and he tries to find her.
Juliet decides to listen to Ford. He doesn't know about the debts his step brother has left her with nor does he know how abused she was. Ford eventually finds out about the debts and begs her to let him help her. She also is forced to live with him.
Ford is so good with Juliet and helps her get back on her feet. I love how sweet he was with her. He wants to make sure she is cared for and builds back her self-confidence.
This story will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. What happens to Ford and Juliet's relationship? You have to read this one.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This story had me hooked from the first page. I knew from reading the blog it was going to be a good read but I couldn't imagine how intriguing it would be. It was so well-written and the characters were amazingly good.
Juliet has lost her husband who was a baseball player. She completely falls off the grid. Ford is Juliet's husband's step brother. He has been trying to find Juliet to take care of her. She is the only family he has left. Ford's teammates have hired a woman to clean his apartment. When the woman shows up he is surprised to see it is Juliet and that she works as a topless maid. Ford is so surprised to see her and begins asking her where she has been. She no longer goes by Juliet and has changed her name to Etta. She leaves and he tries to find her.
Juliet decides to listen to Ford. He doesn't know about the debts his step brother has left her with nor does he know how abused she was. Ford eventually finds out about the debts and begs her to let him help her. She also is forced to live with him.
Ford is so good with Juliet and helps her get back on her feet. I love how sweet he was with her. He wants to make sure she is cared for and builds back her self-confidence.
This story will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. What happens to Ford and Juliet's relationship? You have to read this one.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2025
A straight up incredible read! This is an ungodly good blend of humor, charm, and swoon, with past trauma that hits like a sledgehammer and shatters your heart over and over, enveloped in a healing and cathartic story that lets your heart take flight with every sexy, heated look and touch between Juliet and Ford, every ounce of confidence she rebuilds, and every moment and choice that once felt ruined and stolen from her that Ford painstakingly rebuilds and gives back. It's finding your home, your peace, your safety, and yourself when you least expect it, showing a woman how she deserves to be treated and loved, rolling the dice and hoping she feels the same, nerdy nights and quiet mornings, and calling a truce with the enemy cat, and it is absolutely outstanding.
This is a stunner of a read. It has so much depth, grabs you so hard emotionally, steals your heart so thoroughly and completely, and the chemistry, intense and insanely good. Ford and Juliet are really well-developed characters, the plot is moving and empowering, the romance feels honest and true, I love that while Juliet is absolutely growing again and learning about herself and how to ask for and take what she needs and wants, so is Ford in his own way. It's heart melting and full of gestures both big and small that speak more to saying I see you than I want to impress you, it throws in fun and laughter and is overall a well balanced wonderfully written romance that you hate reaching the end of.
This is a stunner of a read. It has so much depth, grabs you so hard emotionally, steals your heart so thoroughly and completely, and the chemistry, intense and insanely good. Ford and Juliet are really well-developed characters, the plot is moving and empowering, the romance feels honest and true, I love that while Juliet is absolutely growing again and learning about herself and how to ask for and take what she needs and wants, so is Ford in his own way. It's heart melting and full of gestures both big and small that speak more to saying I see you than I want to impress you, it throws in fun and laughter and is overall a well balanced wonderfully written romance that you hate reaching the end of.
May 28, 2025
This was a very entertaining and enjoyable read. The two main characters quickly grabbed my attention and pulled on my heart strings.
Juliette/Etta is the young widow of a professional baseball player who died in a plane crash that killed nearly his entire team. His death freed her from physical, verbal and emotional abuse, but left her responsible to pay his sizable gambling debts to an unscrupulous thug. Etta working two jobs just to try to keep her head above water and still struggling. Her backstory is heartbreaking, but she’s making an effort to regain her self confidence and control over her life. She’s a character you want to see win and thrive.
Ford McCoy is a lovable golden retriever of a man. He’s a professional baseball player who volunteered to play for the NY Renegades, his deceased stepbrother’s team. He’s been actively looking for Juliette and is shocked at how they accidentally meet. While his protective switch is completely flipped, Etta runs from him to protect him.
I loved the slow build of the relationship between Juliette/Etta and Ford. Ford makes a considerable effort to protect her yet give her some space to heal and regain her confidence. While he’s trying to help her he’s also hoping to slowly win her heart and trust.
I enjoyed seeing their vulnerability with each other and the effort they both made to communicate honestly even when it would have been easier emotionally to hide or avoid it.
While this is part of a series, the author did a fantastic job with including enough detail and context to give new readers like me an enjoyable and entertaining read without feeling lost or disconnected from the story.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Juliette/Etta is the young widow of a professional baseball player who died in a plane crash that killed nearly his entire team. His death freed her from physical, verbal and emotional abuse, but left her responsible to pay his sizable gambling debts to an unscrupulous thug. Etta working two jobs just to try to keep her head above water and still struggling. Her backstory is heartbreaking, but she’s making an effort to regain her self confidence and control over her life. She’s a character you want to see win and thrive.
Ford McCoy is a lovable golden retriever of a man. He’s a professional baseball player who volunteered to play for the NY Renegades, his deceased stepbrother’s team. He’s been actively looking for Juliette and is shocked at how they accidentally meet. While his protective switch is completely flipped, Etta runs from him to protect him.
I loved the slow build of the relationship between Juliette/Etta and Ford. Ford makes a considerable effort to protect her yet give her some space to heal and regain her confidence. While he’s trying to help her he’s also hoping to slowly win her heart and trust.
I enjoyed seeing their vulnerability with each other and the effort they both made to communicate honestly even when it would have been easier emotionally to hide or avoid it.
While this is part of a series, the author did a fantastic job with including enough detail and context to give new readers like me an enjoyable and entertaining read without feeling lost or disconnected from the story.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
May 25, 2025
⚾️ Renegade Rift by Hayden Locke ⚾️
💚 OUT NOW ON KU!! 💚
- Golden Retriever Hero
- Baseball Romance
- love after loss
- found family
- step brothers widow
- he falls first
- autoimmune rep
- dual POV
This is the second book in the interconnected series, The Draft. You don’t HAVE to read in order, but I would recommend it just because you learn the backstory and the characters. Also, you just don’t want to miss out on the story that Hayden has written.
I will say this one took me a minute to get into ONLY because the gap between the books and I could not remember the MMC to save my life. WHICH IS ON ME. But once I kind of cleared my mind of trying to remember it started moving faster.
Make sure you read Hayden’s Trope and Content Warnings at the beginning of the book. Most are not on page, but in mentions regarding the past. Just in case.
Etta, bless her heart. I can’t imagine going through what she went through with her late husband and then having to deal with what her husband left behind. And to have to find yourself again.
Ford… yes please! Does this kind of man even still exist?
He researches the girl he’s interested in’s autoimmune disease… to know what can help her when she has a flare up?! 🥰 like I said yes please.
There’s a thing with crystals 🥹🥹 when you read you’ll know. :)
⭐️WHERE TO START⭐️
⚾️ Midnight Renegade (Prequel Novella)
⚾️ Renegade Ruin (#1)
💚 OUT NOW ON KU!! 💚
- Golden Retriever Hero
- Baseball Romance
- love after loss
- found family
- step brothers widow
- he falls first
- autoimmune rep
- dual POV
This is the second book in the interconnected series, The Draft. You don’t HAVE to read in order, but I would recommend it just because you learn the backstory and the characters. Also, you just don’t want to miss out on the story that Hayden has written.
I will say this one took me a minute to get into ONLY because the gap between the books and I could not remember the MMC to save my life. WHICH IS ON ME. But once I kind of cleared my mind of trying to remember it started moving faster.
Make sure you read Hayden’s Trope and Content Warnings at the beginning of the book. Most are not on page, but in mentions regarding the past. Just in case.
Etta, bless her heart. I can’t imagine going through what she went through with her late husband and then having to deal with what her husband left behind. And to have to find yourself again.
Ford… yes please! Does this kind of man even still exist?
He researches the girl he’s interested in’s autoimmune disease… to know what can help her when she has a flare up?! 🥰 like I said yes please.
There’s a thing with crystals 🥹🥹 when you read you’ll know. :)
⭐️WHERE TO START⭐️
⚾️ Midnight Renegade (Prequel Novella)
⚾️ Renegade Ruin (#1)
May 26, 2025
This is the second book in the Draft series. I unfortunately missed the first book. But I’d liked to thank the author for doing a brief summary of what happened in the first book. I will go back and read it because it sounds so good. This series resolves around a baseball team that lost most of the players in an airplane crash. Juliette/Etta’s husband was one of those players. Since the team is gone, players from other teams have volunteered to be drafted to play for the Renegades. Ford is the stepbrother of Juliette/Etta’s husband. These two did not have a pleasant relationship in fact it was acrimonious. As soon as Ford was drafted he started looking for Juliette/Etta to help her but she had disappeared. Ford does find her in a very interesting position. However, Juliette/Etta is not a happy person. Her husband left her with a lot of debt and some deep emotional trauma. So Ford has a difficult time trying to help her and break through her defenses. Thank you to the author for the exposure and education on an autoimmune disease (that I have never heard of before). I too suffer from one and it’s always good when they are included in books to get knowledge out and have people become aware. As people learn more about the different autoimmune diseases then more people can be helped and accepted. This book was angsty and very emotional and I was totally here for it. I enjoyed the characters and the plot. This was a new author to me but this book made me a new fan.
July 14, 2025
ARC REVIEW ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5
"Juliet is the sun I didn't know I'd been missing, living in a world of gray."
Hayden really hit it out of the park with Ford and Juliet! Ford McCoy, the boy next door who would destroy the world to fight for his girl, is the kind of man every girl needs in her life! Juliet went through so much, broken in a way only Ford could help heal. I loved how he broke down her walls, showing her how to trust so she could reclaim her power and see the possibility of living the life she deserved as the center of a man's universe.
I loved seeing Juliet's increasing confidence and growth. Ford and Juliet shared a love that was so raw and real, taking my breath away and making me tear up over and over. I loved the tension, the heat, the push and pull, how Ford protected Juliet, never giving up on her. The found family of the Renegades and Juliet's friend Paige were the perfect support for Juliet's healing and hope for the future.
I may not have experienced what Ford and Juliet did but I know what it's like to have self-doubt and not feel good enough, constantly needing to prove yourself. And that's exactly where this book spoke to me. The hard topics were there but there was also optimism of things getting better moving forward. I can't wait to see what's next for the Renegades!
🌟Baseball Romance
🌟Stepbrother's Widow
🌟He Falls First
🌟Dating Lessons
🌟Slow Burn
🌟Found Family
🌟Past Trauma/Grief
🌟Autoimmune Rep
"Juliet is the sun I didn't know I'd been missing, living in a world of gray."
Hayden really hit it out of the park with Ford and Juliet! Ford McCoy, the boy next door who would destroy the world to fight for his girl, is the kind of man every girl needs in her life! Juliet went through so much, broken in a way only Ford could help heal. I loved how he broke down her walls, showing her how to trust so she could reclaim her power and see the possibility of living the life she deserved as the center of a man's universe.
I loved seeing Juliet's increasing confidence and growth. Ford and Juliet shared a love that was so raw and real, taking my breath away and making me tear up over and over. I loved the tension, the heat, the push and pull, how Ford protected Juliet, never giving up on her. The found family of the Renegades and Juliet's friend Paige were the perfect support for Juliet's healing and hope for the future.
I may not have experienced what Ford and Juliet did but I know what it's like to have self-doubt and not feel good enough, constantly needing to prove yourself. And that's exactly where this book spoke to me. The hard topics were there but there was also optimism of things getting better moving forward. I can't wait to see what's next for the Renegades!
🌟Baseball Romance
🌟Stepbrother's Widow
🌟He Falls First
🌟Dating Lessons
🌟Slow Burn
🌟Found Family
🌟Past Trauma/Grief
🌟Autoimmune Rep
May 21, 2025
4.25/5 Stars
This was my first book by Hayden and this story had me hooked from page 1. While it can be read as a standalone since there is enough in the preface to understand where the story is starting, I will be going back to read the other 2 books in this series before the next book comes out so I fully understand all the characters.
It was a fun, easy, quick baseball romance that goes beyond romance. It also takes you on an emotional healing journey of overcoming past trauma, loss and guilt (so check those triggers before you read). I loved how Julietta (Etta) and Ford's story played out. Their chemistry was so good. I loved how strong the bond they built became so this is a slow burn relationship that develops through their healing journey. But once the spice hit, it was perfect so well worth the wait to get to it. Ford is a walking green flag MMC, he's a golden retriever character who's patient, determined, thoughtful, and supportive, plus he's a dirty talker 😍. Julietta is strong and amazing after everything she's been through and I love how she becomes even stronger with Ford's support, he never treated her with kid gloves or pity, but as the strong equal she is. I love the text messages in the book and I loved the found family aspects with the Renegades. And I loved Lodhi too.
This was my first book by Hayden and this story had me hooked from page 1. While it can be read as a standalone since there is enough in the preface to understand where the story is starting, I will be going back to read the other 2 books in this series before the next book comes out so I fully understand all the characters.
It was a fun, easy, quick baseball romance that goes beyond romance. It also takes you on an emotional healing journey of overcoming past trauma, loss and guilt (so check those triggers before you read). I loved how Julietta (Etta) and Ford's story played out. Their chemistry was so good. I loved how strong the bond they built became so this is a slow burn relationship that develops through their healing journey. But once the spice hit, it was perfect so well worth the wait to get to it. Ford is a walking green flag MMC, he's a golden retriever character who's patient, determined, thoughtful, and supportive, plus he's a dirty talker 😍. Julietta is strong and amazing after everything she's been through and I love how she becomes even stronger with Ford's support, he never treated her with kid gloves or pity, but as the strong equal she is. I love the text messages in the book and I loved the found family aspects with the Renegades. And I loved Lodhi too.
May 22, 2025
Happy release week @hayden_locke_author !
I need everyone to run and grab this book ASAP cuz it’s amazing!
Renegade Rift is a found family, stepbrother’s widow, baseball romance following Juliet and Ford.
I really empathized with Juliet as soon as I met her. Life hasn’t been kind to her, and she’s really at the point in life where she has no faith in people or happy endings. I know the feeling all too well. It made watching her fall for Ford that much sweeter as he brings her into his baseball team family, everyone treating her with respect and kindness simply because it’s the right thing to do. I loved watching her heal with Ford, and I can see so many readers loving her story.
Ford is the perfect mix of an alpha male and a cinnamon roll MMC. He refuses to let Juliet live a life she’s miserable in, and he stops at nothing to make sure she feels confident, happy, and safe at all times. He also has so many swoony moments where he makes it very clear to anyone who may be remotely interested in Juliet that she’s his, and I was here for it! Seriously, I need everyone to meet this hero and experience the genuine love he has for this woman, because I had the best time reading about these two.
Thank you so much to @hayden_locke_author and @theauthor.agency for my arc copy!
Renegade Rift is now available in KU💗
I need everyone to run and grab this book ASAP cuz it’s amazing!
Renegade Rift is a found family, stepbrother’s widow, baseball romance following Juliet and Ford.
I really empathized with Juliet as soon as I met her. Life hasn’t been kind to her, and she’s really at the point in life where she has no faith in people or happy endings. I know the feeling all too well. It made watching her fall for Ford that much sweeter as he brings her into his baseball team family, everyone treating her with respect and kindness simply because it’s the right thing to do. I loved watching her heal with Ford, and I can see so many readers loving her story.
Ford is the perfect mix of an alpha male and a cinnamon roll MMC. He refuses to let Juliet live a life she’s miserable in, and he stops at nothing to make sure she feels confident, happy, and safe at all times. He also has so many swoony moments where he makes it very clear to anyone who may be remotely interested in Juliet that she’s his, and I was here for it! Seriously, I need everyone to meet this hero and experience the genuine love he has for this woman, because I had the best time reading about these two.
Thank you so much to @hayden_locke_author and @theauthor.agency for my arc copy!
Renegade Rift is now available in KU💗
May 25, 2025
4.5/5 - Renegade Rift is the second book in The Draft series by Hayden Locke. Juliet is the widow of Ford’s stepbrother, who died in a tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of most of the team. Ford volunteered to be drafted onto the team to support Juliet. He has been searching for her since he arrived, but she has remained elusive. In an unexpected twist, they encounter each other, and Ford’s protective instinct kicks in, sparking a relationship that tests emotional boundaries.
This book captivated me. I was drawn in by Juliet’s pain and isolation, and I found Ford’s unwavering determination to help her incredibly endearing. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and their evolution from adversaries to confidants was portrayed beautifully.
The author’s exploration of grief, guilt, and the complexities of moving on after trust is broken resonated with me deeply. The pacing was well-balanced, with moments of intense emotion interspersed with lighter, tender scenes.
While this book is emotionally intense, much like the first one in this series, it offers a sense of hope and redemption.
If you are looking for a romance that combines heart and depth, Renegade Rift is a must-read. It’s a story that will make you laugh, cry, and believe in the power of love and healing.
This book captivated me. I was drawn in by Juliet’s pain and isolation, and I found Ford’s unwavering determination to help her incredibly endearing. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and their evolution from adversaries to confidants was portrayed beautifully.
The author’s exploration of grief, guilt, and the complexities of moving on after trust is broken resonated with me deeply. The pacing was well-balanced, with moments of intense emotion interspersed with lighter, tender scenes.
While this book is emotionally intense, much like the first one in this series, it offers a sense of hope and redemption.
If you are looking for a romance that combines heart and depth, Renegade Rift is a must-read. It’s a story that will make you laugh, cry, and believe in the power of love and healing.
May 27, 2025
“I swear this man was a golden retriever in another life. Or maybe whatever kind of dog Lassie was.”
Renegade Rift | Hayden Locke | The Draft Series #2
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5, 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
“And even if it’s only in my heart, Juliet is most definitely mine.”
Read this if you love: stepbrother’s widow | baseball romance | found family | healing and feelings | teach me | autoimmune disease rep | golden retriever
“Ford?” I whisper. I blink and look up to where his eyes shine with curiosity. “Yes, love?” I lift myself and press my lips to his. “Thank you for finding me.”
The first book, Renegade Ruin, was such a roller coaster that I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Renegade Rift. However, it was its own emotional rollercoaster as it meshed together the original team and the new team. While Ford was dreamy, I loved watching Juliet become her own person. Watching her figure out what she wants, who she is, and how she feels was something I didn’t even know I wanted from this book. Watching her take her life back, while Ford navigates a new team and a previous friendship kept me invested until the end. I cannot wait to see more from this team series and I’m really hoping the next book is about Mercer (because what is going on there???).
Thank you @hayden_locke_author for the eARC. I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Renegade Rift | Hayden Locke | The Draft Series #2
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5, 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
“And even if it’s only in my heart, Juliet is most definitely mine.”
Read this if you love: stepbrother’s widow | baseball romance | found family | healing and feelings | teach me | autoimmune disease rep | golden retriever
“Ford?” I whisper. I blink and look up to where his eyes shine with curiosity. “Yes, love?” I lift myself and press my lips to his. “Thank you for finding me.”
The first book, Renegade Ruin, was such a roller coaster that I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Renegade Rift. However, it was its own emotional rollercoaster as it meshed together the original team and the new team. While Ford was dreamy, I loved watching Juliet become her own person. Watching her figure out what she wants, who she is, and how she feels was something I didn’t even know I wanted from this book. Watching her take her life back, while Ford navigates a new team and a previous friendship kept me invested until the end. I cannot wait to see more from this team series and I’m really hoping the next book is about Mercer (because what is going on there???).
Thank you @hayden_locke_author for the eARC. I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
May 15, 2025
I received an ARC but all thoughts are my own.
I've been foaming at the MOUTH for this book and I can't wait for everyone else to read it. Once again, Hayden Locke hits us with an emotional baseball book. Personally, I found the first book in the series a little more gut wrenching but Renegade Rift still hits hard.
Juliet is a widow of one of the Renegade ballplayers, but unknown to those around her and the team, life wasn't that great before his death, and now she's stuck trying to fix his mistakes. Ford is her husbands step-brother who's been trying to track Juliet down since the accident with zero luck. Of course all that changes when his teammates hire him a topless maid to clean his apartment.
I loved watching these two fall in love. It just felt natural, even if both of them were dealing with issues from the past. It wasn't all sadness though. The scenes centered around the D&D games were hilarious, along with a grumpy cat sidekick. Ford is such a supportive partner, from taking care of Juliet during health issues, to helping her follow her dreams of being a chef. The Found Family vibes were still strong, and I loved visiting Bishop and Willow again.
I can't wait for book three and I can tell this is going to be a series I revisit on a regular basis.
I've been foaming at the MOUTH for this book and I can't wait for everyone else to read it. Once again, Hayden Locke hits us with an emotional baseball book. Personally, I found the first book in the series a little more gut wrenching but Renegade Rift still hits hard.
Juliet is a widow of one of the Renegade ballplayers, but unknown to those around her and the team, life wasn't that great before his death, and now she's stuck trying to fix his mistakes. Ford is her husbands step-brother who's been trying to track Juliet down since the accident with zero luck. Of course all that changes when his teammates hire him a topless maid to clean his apartment.
I loved watching these two fall in love. It just felt natural, even if both of them were dealing with issues from the past. It wasn't all sadness though. The scenes centered around the D&D games were hilarious, along with a grumpy cat sidekick. Ford is such a supportive partner, from taking care of Juliet during health issues, to helping her follow her dreams of being a chef. The Found Family vibes were still strong, and I loved visiting Bishop and Willow again.
I can't wait for book three and I can tell this is going to be a series I revisit on a regular basis.
May 20, 2025
⭐️ 5 stars
💖 5 hearts
🌶️ 3 chilis — because who doesn’t love a golden retriever with a dirty mouth?
Ford and Juliet’s reunion after years apart is nothing short of electric ⚡—and not in the way you'd expect. It’s tender, raw, and packed with tension that simmers before it sizzles 🔥.
Ford is the ultimate golden retriever boyfriend 🐶💛—loyal, big-hearted, always eager to help… and wow, does he have a filthy mouth 😏. The contrast between his sunshine soul and the grief he carries over what his stepbrother did? Gut-wrenching. The more Ford uncovers, the more your heart breaks for both of them 💔.
Juliet is a force. She’s clawed her way back from the edge after disappearing to reclaim herself. The emotional and financial wreckage left by her late husband is staggering—and she’s doing everything she can to stay afloat 🌊. But when Ford steps in, it’s not as a savior, but a true partner. 💪
From broken beginnings to tender healing, their journey moves from “family” to “maybe something more?” 🥺👉👈 Their slow-burn chemistry, growth, witty banter, and emotional depth will absolutely wreck you in the best way possible.
Add this one to your TBR ASAP. You’ll laugh, cry, blush, and maybe even believe in second chances again. 💫
💖 5 hearts
🌶️ 3 chilis — because who doesn’t love a golden retriever with a dirty mouth?
Ford and Juliet’s reunion after years apart is nothing short of electric ⚡—and not in the way you'd expect. It’s tender, raw, and packed with tension that simmers before it sizzles 🔥.
Ford is the ultimate golden retriever boyfriend 🐶💛—loyal, big-hearted, always eager to help… and wow, does he have a filthy mouth 😏. The contrast between his sunshine soul and the grief he carries over what his stepbrother did? Gut-wrenching. The more Ford uncovers, the more your heart breaks for both of them 💔.
Juliet is a force. She’s clawed her way back from the edge after disappearing to reclaim herself. The emotional and financial wreckage left by her late husband is staggering—and she’s doing everything she can to stay afloat 🌊. But when Ford steps in, it’s not as a savior, but a true partner. 💪
From broken beginnings to tender healing, their journey moves from “family” to “maybe something more?” 🥺👉👈 Their slow-burn chemistry, growth, witty banter, and emotional depth will absolutely wreck you in the best way possible.
Add this one to your TBR ASAP. You’ll laugh, cry, blush, and maybe even believe in second chances again. 💫
May 25, 2025
Format: 📱 eBook 📱 (ARC)
Check CWs before reading
Holy heck does this one hit you in the feels. Locke has this ability to really make you feel for her characters - I'm still not over Willow and Bishop's story - and Juliet/Juliette/Etta and Ford's story is no different.
The plane crash that took out most of the Renegade's Baseball team is still wreaking havoc on the survivors and their family; Juliet's story is no different. I was surprised at how hard her story got me, as we uncovered more of her ex-husband's influence and life, and as we learn more about the more personal things she's dealing with.
The chronic illness rep in this book is absolutely astounding. Locke has treated it so carefully and sensitively but also showing us how determined Juliet is. Ford was just sheer perfection in learning anything and everything about how to help Juliet, and also how to teach her when she asks for dating lessons - and you know I'm a sucker for a good "teach me" story.
Ford is a walking, nerdy green flag (seriously, I grinned so big at the mention of D&D) who is just perfect for Juliet, and I'm so glad the two of them were able to work through everything and get their happily ever after.
The teases about Mercer and what his story may entail have me so excited for the next book in the series - I'm secretly hoping the next book will be his, and that my suspicions may ring true. I'm in love with these baseball boys, and can't wait for more!
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Check CWs before reading
Holy heck does this one hit you in the feels. Locke has this ability to really make you feel for her characters - I'm still not over Willow and Bishop's story - and Juliet/Juliette/Etta and Ford's story is no different.
The plane crash that took out most of the Renegade's Baseball team is still wreaking havoc on the survivors and their family; Juliet's story is no different. I was surprised at how hard her story got me, as we uncovered more of her ex-husband's influence and life, and as we learn more about the more personal things she's dealing with.
The chronic illness rep in this book is absolutely astounding. Locke has treated it so carefully and sensitively but also showing us how determined Juliet is. Ford was just sheer perfection in learning anything and everything about how to help Juliet, and also how to teach her when she asks for dating lessons - and you know I'm a sucker for a good "teach me" story.
Ford is a walking, nerdy green flag (seriously, I grinned so big at the mention of D&D) who is just perfect for Juliet, and I'm so glad the two of them were able to work through everything and get their happily ever after.
The teases about Mercer and what his story may entail have me so excited for the next book in the series - I'm secretly hoping the next book will be his, and that my suspicions may ring true. I'm in love with these baseball boys, and can't wait for more!
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
May 17, 2025
4.5⭐️
Before you read this one please go back and read ‘Midnight Renegade’ and ‘Renegade Ruin’. It will all flow nicely and you’ll be happy you did. You can thank me later 😉
💕“Thank you for fighting for me.”
“You’re worth fighting for”💕
I knew I would like this book but I had no idea I would love Ford as much as I do. Ford is Juliet’s step-brother in law and this man is EVERYTHING! You’ll learn early on that she clearly chose the wrong brother 😮💨 The way Ford and Juliet find each other again wasn’t expected but it was very much welcomed. I’ve never read a book with a person who has the job Juliet does, let’s just put it that. Anytime Juliet and Ford were in the same room I felt the sexual tension. Juliet is very much a headstrong FMC and Ford knows exactly how to handle her. When Juliet finally lets herself feel the feelings for Ford it’s beautiful. Juliet has been through so much and seeing Ford help heal her made me emotional. The name Ford calls Juliet had me melting every single time he said it. I just love these two characters so much. Oh and the spice is SPICY!
Before you read this one please go back and read ‘Midnight Renegade’ and ‘Renegade Ruin’. It will all flow nicely and you’ll be happy you did. You can thank me later 😉
💕“Thank you for fighting for me.”
“You’re worth fighting for”💕
I knew I would like this book but I had no idea I would love Ford as much as I do. Ford is Juliet’s step-brother in law and this man is EVERYTHING! You’ll learn early on that she clearly chose the wrong brother 😮💨 The way Ford and Juliet find each other again wasn’t expected but it was very much welcomed. I’ve never read a book with a person who has the job Juliet does, let’s just put it that. Anytime Juliet and Ford were in the same room I felt the sexual tension. Juliet is very much a headstrong FMC and Ford knows exactly how to handle her. When Juliet finally lets herself feel the feelings for Ford it’s beautiful. Juliet has been through so much and seeing Ford help heal her made me emotional. The name Ford calls Juliet had me melting every single time he said it. I just love these two characters so much. Oh and the spice is SPICY!
May 19, 2025
Tropes:
-baseball romance
-stepbrother's widow
-healing and feelings
-teach me
-found family
Renegade Rift is book two in The Draft series and is Juliet and Ford's story.
This story was everything I had hoped it would be. Hayden knows how to take you on an emotional roller coaster of a story in such a beautiful way. Their story continues from book one and both of them are dealing with Tyler's (Juliet's husband and Ford's stepbrother) death. Ford has volunteered to play for the Renegades as part of working through his guilt of not fixing the broken relationship he had with Tyler. Juliet, who now goes by Etta, has disappeared since his death and is trying to make ends meet. A year later, after a chance encounter Ford decides to make it his mission to help her and find out why she disappeared.
As the story progresses, they both find out not everything was as it seemed, and you may not know someone as you think you do. Ford and Juliet bond and I love how their relationship progresses. The found family trope is strong in this one and is so well written. This story is a must read!
Releasing May 20, 2025. I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
-baseball romance
-stepbrother's widow
-healing and feelings
-teach me
-found family
Renegade Rift is book two in The Draft series and is Juliet and Ford's story.
This story was everything I had hoped it would be. Hayden knows how to take you on an emotional roller coaster of a story in such a beautiful way. Their story continues from book one and both of them are dealing with Tyler's (Juliet's husband and Ford's stepbrother) death. Ford has volunteered to play for the Renegades as part of working through his guilt of not fixing the broken relationship he had with Tyler. Juliet, who now goes by Etta, has disappeared since his death and is trying to make ends meet. A year later, after a chance encounter Ford decides to make it his mission to help her and find out why she disappeared.
As the story progresses, they both find out not everything was as it seemed, and you may not know someone as you think you do. Ford and Juliet bond and I love how their relationship progresses. The found family trope is strong in this one and is so well written. This story is a must read!
Releasing May 20, 2025. I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
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