What do you think?
Tennessee Terrors #5
Legal Catch
He’s the star athlete who thrives on chaos. She’s the determined lawyer-in-training who craves order. They share a wall, a grudge, and absolutely no common ground… or so they think.
Tahlia Carter has one goal—pass the bar exam and launch her legal career. Living in a luxury condo was supposed to mean peace and quiet, the perfect environment to study. Instead, she’s stuck next door to Jake Reynolds, the Tennessee Terrors’ infuriatingly charming centerfielder who treats every night like a personal afterparty. The walls are thin, and so is her patience.
After one too many sleepless nights, Tahlia reaches her breaking point and confronts her loud, cocky neighbor. But instead of backing down, Jake doubles down—teasing her, tempting her, and challenging every rule she’s set for herself. When an unexpected act of chivalry turns into an impulsive invitation to his next game, Tahlia shocks them both by accepting.
What starts as a reluctant truce quickly spirals into something neither of them can ignore. The attraction is undeniable, the tension unbearable, and soon, their battles move from the walls between them to the spaces much closer.
She’s playing it safe. He’s playing to win. But when the game iws love, will either of them follow the rules?
Legal Catch is the fifth book in a series with ten amazing authors about the Tennessee Terrors baseball team. All books have crossover characters but are standalone novels and can be read in any order.
Tahlia Carter has one goal—pass the bar exam and launch her legal career. Living in a luxury condo was supposed to mean peace and quiet, the perfect environment to study. Instead, she’s stuck next door to Jake Reynolds, the Tennessee Terrors’ infuriatingly charming centerfielder who treats every night like a personal afterparty. The walls are thin, and so is her patience.
After one too many sleepless nights, Tahlia reaches her breaking point and confronts her loud, cocky neighbor. But instead of backing down, Jake doubles down—teasing her, tempting her, and challenging every rule she’s set for herself. When an unexpected act of chivalry turns into an impulsive invitation to his next game, Tahlia shocks them both by accepting.
What starts as a reluctant truce quickly spirals into something neither of them can ignore. The attraction is undeniable, the tension unbearable, and soon, their battles move from the walls between them to the spaces much closer.
She’s playing it safe. He’s playing to win. But when the game iws love, will either of them follow the rules?
Legal Catch is the fifth book in a series with ten amazing authors about the Tennessee Terrors baseball team. All books have crossover characters but are standalone novels and can be read in any order.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2025
About the author
M.L. Preston
40 books272 followersML Preston is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes Contemporary, Multicultural Romance. Encouraged to nurture her active imagination, she quickly found a passion for storytelling. She spins sagas of passion and romance where the lines between race and creed, physical perfection and social norms disappear in the face of love. Novels of real love; erotic connections with a heart and soul that everyone can relate. She makes a home in Texas with her husband, three children, one fur-babies, and two grandchildren to rule them all.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
June 4, 2025
First off I am loving this series!!
I am finding new authors to read and stalk, this one is the perfect example.
A totally new to me author!
This book was absolutely adorable. I gobbled right up like a piece of cheesecake.
Our couple met in a fun way.
Our hero is a player on and off the field.
Our heroine is a completely focused (all work, no play) law student.
Opposites definitely attract but not right away.
I loved watching there story play out.
Watching him change his Playboy ways and her loosening up and enjoying down time.
The best part it was effortless they brought out the best in each other.
The writing style was so easy to read and get lost in.
I will be looking for more from M.L. Preston
I am finding new authors to read and stalk, this one is the perfect example.
A totally new to me author!
This book was absolutely adorable. I gobbled right up like a piece of cheesecake.
Our couple met in a fun way.
Our hero is a player on and off the field.
Our heroine is a completely focused (all work, no play) law student.
Opposites definitely attract but not right away.
I loved watching there story play out.
Watching him change his Playboy ways and her loosening up and enjoying down time.
The best part it was effortless they brought out the best in each other.
The writing style was so easy to read and get lost in.
I will be looking for more from M.L. Preston
June 15, 2025
3.75 stars
This is an insta-love story wrapped in a torturously slow burn. 🤣
I genuinely enjoyed the whole premise, but I have to admit—the slow burn nearly broke me. 😩 They do kiss, but then… nothing! The tension was so high I wanted to scream, “PLEASE JUST DO IT!” 🤣
The story kicks off with a quick pace and undeniable chemistry between Jake and Tahlia, and I really thought we were in for a fast, fiery ride. But then… it slowed down. And slowed down some more. I feel like some of that time could’ve been used to explore more layers of their story instead of prolonging the wait.
Still, the romance worked. I loved Jake Reynolds—he’s such an easygoing, sunshine-hearted sweetheart. And Tahlia? Strong, smart, independent… and yes, frustratingly cautious at times. But together, they had sparks.
From the meet-cute to the emotional moments, this is a heart-warming, easy read with plenty of tension and sweet charm.
Legal Catch is available now on KU.
Thank you to Wordsmith Publicity and ML Preston for the eARC! 💜
This is an insta-love story wrapped in a torturously slow burn. 🤣
I genuinely enjoyed the whole premise, but I have to admit—the slow burn nearly broke me. 😩 They do kiss, but then… nothing! The tension was so high I wanted to scream, “PLEASE JUST DO IT!” 🤣
The story kicks off with a quick pace and undeniable chemistry between Jake and Tahlia, and I really thought we were in for a fast, fiery ride. But then… it slowed down. And slowed down some more. I feel like some of that time could’ve been used to explore more layers of their story instead of prolonging the wait.
Still, the romance worked. I loved Jake Reynolds—he’s such an easygoing, sunshine-hearted sweetheart. And Tahlia? Strong, smart, independent… and yes, frustratingly cautious at times. But together, they had sparks.
From the meet-cute to the emotional moments, this is a heart-warming, easy read with plenty of tension and sweet charm.
Legal Catch is available now on KU.
Thank you to Wordsmith Publicity and ML Preston for the eARC! 💜
July 13, 2025
Thank you ML Preston and Wordsmith Publicity for my arc copy of Legal Catch!
I absolutely LOVE this book! Jake and Tahlia are my favorite couple I think so far in the series! I loved how she didn’t take any of his shit. she told him what she thought and it’s exactly what he needed. He fell so hard it was cute. 😂👏🏼 I absolutely loved how she wrote the baseball scenes! My sensitive soul teared up from the emotion of Jake coming back on the field the first time after he got hurt. It really felt like I was in the stadium at that point.
100% recommend if you love a baseball ⚾️ romance.
I absolutely LOVE this book! Jake and Tahlia are my favorite couple I think so far in the series! I loved how she didn’t take any of his shit. she told him what she thought and it’s exactly what he needed. He fell so hard it was cute. 😂👏🏼 I absolutely loved how she wrote the baseball scenes! My sensitive soul teared up from the emotion of Jake coming back on the field the first time after he got hurt. It really felt like I was in the stadium at that point.
100% recommend if you love a baseball ⚾️ romance.
June 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. This is the 5th book in the Tennessee Terrors series.
I just loved their chemistry and banter in the start. It was just 🤌🏼
If you enjoy a slow burn where you constantly think “yes, this is it. This is when they finally get together” just to be tricked. Then this one is for you.
I just loved their chemistry and banter in the start. It was just 🤌🏼
If you enjoy a slow burn where you constantly think “yes, this is it. This is when they finally get together” just to be tricked. Then this one is for you.
June 26, 2025
Another great book in the Tennessee Terrors series.
I absolutely loved how Tahlia & Jake met (Knock, knock!), hilarious enemies to lovers romance. The chemistry was amazing.
This is the fifth book of a new series written by different authors and can be read as a stand alone.
I absolutely loved how Tahlia & Jake met (Knock, knock!), hilarious enemies to lovers romance. The chemistry was amazing.
This is the fifth book of a new series written by different authors and can be read as a stand alone.
July 15, 2025
To me this book was like cotton candy. Super sweet but no substance and also something I personally don’t love but I get why people like it. The characters were not well developed and just very surface level, they had cute banter and some chemistry but that’s about it. We don’t learn much about them or why they are so into each other. It was a nice easy read but nothing special to me and could really be rounded up or down in my opinion.
June 10, 2025
“I’m glad I knocked on your door.”
I really hate rating books less than 4 stars, but I just didn't click with this one.
This was a sweet simple read, and to me, it felt fast-paced, but a bit slow at the same time, which honestly I think may be in part due to the recovery process of MMC.
The meet-cute was fun, and definitely a cool story to tell the grandkids, although she waited way too long to knock on his door in my opinion. Tahlia is a law student who is preparing for her bar exam and shares a wall with Jake, the center fielder for the Tennessee Terrors, and a playboy who does not let her concentrate or sleep with his extracurricular activities. The thing is that Tahlia keeps saying how she won't take the noise anymore and will do something about it, but this keeps going on for days before she actually knocks on his door.
After that, it was basically an insta-love. They were both completely infatuated with each other and were basically living together because he got injured during a game and she was taking care of him, but at the same time, it felt like they were at a standstill.
Honestly, the story had a lot of potential, but the execution just didn't do it for me.
Quote: “To the woman who shut down the noise, called me on my bullshit, and still looked at me like I was worth betting on. I don’t know what I did to deserve that. But I’m not letting it go.”
I really hate rating books less than 4 stars, but I just didn't click with this one.
This was a sweet simple read, and to me, it felt fast-paced, but a bit slow at the same time, which honestly I think may be in part due to the recovery process of MMC.
The meet-cute was fun, and definitely a cool story to tell the grandkids, although she waited way too long to knock on his door in my opinion. Tahlia is a law student who is preparing for her bar exam and shares a wall with Jake, the center fielder for the Tennessee Terrors, and a playboy who does not let her concentrate or sleep with his extracurricular activities. The thing is that Tahlia keeps saying how she won't take the noise anymore and will do something about it, but this keeps going on for days before she actually knocks on his door.
After that, it was basically an insta-love. They were both completely infatuated with each other and were basically living together because he got injured during a game and she was taking care of him, but at the same time, it felt like they were at a standstill.
Honestly, the story had a lot of potential, but the execution just didn't do it for me.
Quote: “To the woman who shut down the noise, called me on my bullshit, and still looked at me like I was worth betting on. I don’t know what I did to deserve that. But I’m not letting it go.”
June 23, 2026
Tropes: Sports (baseball), Enemies to Lovers, Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn
(Free on Kindle)
Legal Catch by M.L. Preston is a sports romance with an easy-going pace involving two attractive people with opposing lifestyles. The book is the fifth one in the Tennessee Terrors series but can be read as a standalone (I did).
Tahlia Carter is a driven and brilliant soon-to-be lawyer. That is, if she can successfully pass the bar exam! She is sure that the solitude and peace of her condo will provide the right environment for study and success. Unfortunately, she did not take into the account the thinness of the walls separating her condo from the next.
Baseball star Jake Reynolds loves his sport and he loves to party. When he is in town, it is a different woman and celebration every night. He is clueless to the amount of noise he is making until his fiery, sarcastic neighbor knocks on his door. Even though she was seriously displeased with him, he can’t get her out of his head and finds himself thinking about her and finding ways to see her again.
Tahlia has too much on her plate to entertain Jake’s nonsense but as they spend time together, she comes to realize that there is so much more to him than the party boy she envisioned. He has real substance and heart. But can these two people with opposite personalities and different walks of life make a real love connection or will they strike out?
Conclusion:
I have read several books by Ms. Preston and always enjoy her writing style. I started reading Legal Catch and thought I would try to finish half and come back to it later. It was such a smooth read, that I found that I couldn’t stop until I had finished. It was such an EASY book to read, comfortable and entertaining. The book is a slow burn with a limited amount of spice, some close calls 😊 and one open-door bedroom scene. Final words, Jake and Tahlia were cute together and I really enjoyed their humor and developing friendship before romance. Their families and friends were top tier. This is a book that will leave you with a good feeling and sweet sense of satisfaction.
Favorite Lines:
The walls vibrate, the bass pounding like it has a personal vendetta against my sleep. I jolt awake, groggy and pissed. This is the fourth damn night this week.
sI grab a towel and head for the shower, as if hot water might wash away my thoughts of Tahlia.
Tahlia calls me out, drains the latte, and dips. And I want more of it. More of her.
Joi sprawls into a chair, sighing. "If I read one more brief tonight, my eyes will bleed." "If you read another document and your eyes bleed, you have another far more serious issue," I laugh, pushing back from the table.
"If not for the game, just stay for a bit." His voice is quieter. More real. "I like having you here."
But none of them have ever looked at me like she did at the door—like she'd been holding her breath all night and seeing me gave her permission to breathe again.
“Damn,” I mutter, going in for another bite. “Brains, beauty, sarcasm, and you can cook?”
This is the kind of scent that says someone’s been cooking with real butter and real opinions.
“No, but I’m your man and I’ll be damned if I let someone disrespects my woman.”
He slides over the keys, treating us like VIPs instead of two people trying not to fuck in public.
You don’t get a do-over on the first time with the person you love.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/legal-...
(Free on Kindle)
Legal Catch by M.L. Preston is a sports romance with an easy-going pace involving two attractive people with opposing lifestyles. The book is the fifth one in the Tennessee Terrors series but can be read as a standalone (I did).
Tahlia Carter is a driven and brilliant soon-to-be lawyer. That is, if she can successfully pass the bar exam! She is sure that the solitude and peace of her condo will provide the right environment for study and success. Unfortunately, she did not take into the account the thinness of the walls separating her condo from the next.
Baseball star Jake Reynolds loves his sport and he loves to party. When he is in town, it is a different woman and celebration every night. He is clueless to the amount of noise he is making until his fiery, sarcastic neighbor knocks on his door. Even though she was seriously displeased with him, he can’t get her out of his head and finds himself thinking about her and finding ways to see her again.
Tahlia has too much on her plate to entertain Jake’s nonsense but as they spend time together, she comes to realize that there is so much more to him than the party boy she envisioned. He has real substance and heart. But can these two people with opposite personalities and different walks of life make a real love connection or will they strike out?
Conclusion:
I have read several books by Ms. Preston and always enjoy her writing style. I started reading Legal Catch and thought I would try to finish half and come back to it later. It was such a smooth read, that I found that I couldn’t stop until I had finished. It was such an EASY book to read, comfortable and entertaining. The book is a slow burn with a limited amount of spice, some close calls 😊 and one open-door bedroom scene. Final words, Jake and Tahlia were cute together and I really enjoyed their humor and developing friendship before romance. Their families and friends were top tier. This is a book that will leave you with a good feeling and sweet sense of satisfaction.
Favorite Lines:
The walls vibrate, the bass pounding like it has a personal vendetta against my sleep. I jolt awake, groggy and pissed. This is the fourth damn night this week.
sI grab a towel and head for the shower, as if hot water might wash away my thoughts of Tahlia.
Tahlia calls me out, drains the latte, and dips. And I want more of it. More of her.
Joi sprawls into a chair, sighing. "If I read one more brief tonight, my eyes will bleed." "If you read another document and your eyes bleed, you have another far more serious issue," I laugh, pushing back from the table.
"If not for the game, just stay for a bit." His voice is quieter. More real. "I like having you here."
But none of them have ever looked at me like she did at the door—like she'd been holding her breath all night and seeing me gave her permission to breathe again.
“Damn,” I mutter, going in for another bite. “Brains, beauty, sarcasm, and you can cook?”
This is the kind of scent that says someone’s been cooking with real butter and real opinions.
“No, but I’m your man and I’ll be damned if I let someone disrespects my woman.”
He slides over the keys, treating us like VIPs instead of two people trying not to fuck in public.
You don’t get a do-over on the first time with the person you love.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/legal-...
June 8, 2025
#enemies to lovers
#sports romance
#opposites attract
#MMC book boyfriend
What can I say about this book, the attraction is undeniable, 2 total opposites attract, so much tension, “she’s playing it safe, he’s playing to win.” Will everyone follow the rules? These two will ignite a fire within themselves when they are together. Loved this story, Jake the mmc is a book boyfriend material for sure. Tahlia the FMC, I loved her, her attitude, she doesn’t’ need a man to validate her. Beautifully written, you need to add this to your TBR, my opinion.
Tahlia, she is a lawyer in training, she has one goal, pass the bar exam and launch her legal career. She has an issue with her luxury condo that she loves, she wanted peace and quiet a place to study, but it seems her next-door neighbor has other ideas. Her patience is running thin, that neighbor parting all night! She is going to confront him.
Jake Reynolds, he is the centerfield for the Tennessee Terrors, he is charming, and he treats every night like a personal after party, the walls are thin. Even his coach will tell you he is the team’s wild child.
Well, this wild child ends up injured and guess who is helping take care of him? Why? But oh, so good.
You will love to read this book, watch them grow, they get to know each other, not rushed. These two tormented each other, the banter is great.
Tidbit from the book:
“She breaks the kiss first. Breathing hard, lips wet, eyes half lidded “Thought you said you are on a recovery schedule.” She whispers. “Yeah,” I say, voice thick. “And it’s currently in jeopardy.” She laughs-soft, breathless, as if I’ve just knocked the wind out of her in the best way.
Then she pushes against my chest teasing. “Go change, Reynolds, begore you rupture something important.” I groan, adjusting myself through my joggers as I step back, “You’re gonna be the reason I end up on the extend IL.” She smirks, still breathless. “Better me than another fastball.” I shake my head and walk toward the bedroom – ribs on fire, blood hot, and self-control hanging by a thread.”
#sports romance
#opposites attract
#MMC book boyfriend
What can I say about this book, the attraction is undeniable, 2 total opposites attract, so much tension, “she’s playing it safe, he’s playing to win.” Will everyone follow the rules? These two will ignite a fire within themselves when they are together. Loved this story, Jake the mmc is a book boyfriend material for sure. Tahlia the FMC, I loved her, her attitude, she doesn’t’ need a man to validate her. Beautifully written, you need to add this to your TBR, my opinion.
Tahlia, she is a lawyer in training, she has one goal, pass the bar exam and launch her legal career. She has an issue with her luxury condo that she loves, she wanted peace and quiet a place to study, but it seems her next-door neighbor has other ideas. Her patience is running thin, that neighbor parting all night! She is going to confront him.
Jake Reynolds, he is the centerfield for the Tennessee Terrors, he is charming, and he treats every night like a personal after party, the walls are thin. Even his coach will tell you he is the team’s wild child.
Well, this wild child ends up injured and guess who is helping take care of him? Why? But oh, so good.
You will love to read this book, watch them grow, they get to know each other, not rushed. These two tormented each other, the banter is great.
Tidbit from the book:
“She breaks the kiss first. Breathing hard, lips wet, eyes half lidded “Thought you said you are on a recovery schedule.” She whispers. “Yeah,” I say, voice thick. “And it’s currently in jeopardy.” She laughs-soft, breathless, as if I’ve just knocked the wind out of her in the best way.
Then she pushes against my chest teasing. “Go change, Reynolds, begore you rupture something important.” I groan, adjusting myself through my joggers as I step back, “You’re gonna be the reason I end up on the extend IL.” She smirks, still breathless. “Better me than another fastball.” I shake my head and walk toward the bedroom – ribs on fire, blood hot, and self-control hanging by a thread.”
June 3, 2025
It’s been four long years since ML Preston gave us a solo romance, but let me tell you—Legal Catch was absolutely worth the wait. As the fifth installment in the sizzling Tennessee Terrors series—a ten-author collaboration centered around a fictional pro baseball team—Preston slides into home with a story that’s equal parts fiery, fun, and heart-melting.
We meet Jake, the team’s wild child and party-loving heartthrob, who’s used to getting his way both on and off the field. Living next door to him? Tahlia, a no-nonsense future lawyer who’s laser-focused on her career… and completely fed up with the late-night noise thumping through her apartment wall.
When banging on the wall doesn’t work, Tahlia takes matters into her own hands—literally—and shows up at Jake’s door. One knock, one heated exchange, and BAM… fate steps in. From that moment on, Jake has met his match—and readers are in for one steamy, tension-filled ride.
The chemistry crackles, the banter is razor-sharp, and the emotional payoff is everything you’d want in a romance. Preston masterfully balances flirty fun with real depth, making Legal Catch a standout in the series and a triumphant return for this talented author.
Final verdict? Jake and Tahlia score a grand slam. Welcome back, ML Preston—we missed you. 💙⚾️🔥
We meet Jake, the team’s wild child and party-loving heartthrob, who’s used to getting his way both on and off the field. Living next door to him? Tahlia, a no-nonsense future lawyer who’s laser-focused on her career… and completely fed up with the late-night noise thumping through her apartment wall.
When banging on the wall doesn’t work, Tahlia takes matters into her own hands—literally—and shows up at Jake’s door. One knock, one heated exchange, and BAM… fate steps in. From that moment on, Jake has met his match—and readers are in for one steamy, tension-filled ride.
The chemistry crackles, the banter is razor-sharp, and the emotional payoff is everything you’d want in a romance. Preston masterfully balances flirty fun with real depth, making Legal Catch a standout in the series and a triumphant return for this talented author.
Final verdict? Jake and Tahlia score a grand slam. Welcome back, ML Preston—we missed you. 💙⚾️🔥
June 3, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Tahlia and Jake. These two could not be any more opposite if they tried. She is a a goal oriented girl who is becoming a lawyer. She is focused on passing her bar exam. When she moved to her luxury condo it was suppose to be the place that she had peace and quiet to study. However, her next door neighbor is horrible. Jake is a star athlete who plays for the Tennessee Terrors'. He is the star center fielder. He is also the most horrible neighbor in the history of neighbors. When he is home and not on the road traveling for the team he treats every night as a after-party and it is so loud. Thalia is losing her patience and has had one to many sleepless nights. When she confronts him, he of course doesn't agree to quiet down. He doubles down by teasing her, tempting her way to many times and making her break every rule she has set for herself. However, a truce needs to be had and when he invites her to a game and she accepts they are both shocked. However, this is the beginning of a love story between two people who should never work on paper. I like these characters. This story really is a fun one to read and a great addition to this series.
This is the story of Tahlia and Jake. These two could not be any more opposite if they tried. She is a a goal oriented girl who is becoming a lawyer. She is focused on passing her bar exam. When she moved to her luxury condo it was suppose to be the place that she had peace and quiet to study. However, her next door neighbor is horrible. Jake is a star athlete who plays for the Tennessee Terrors'. He is the star center fielder. He is also the most horrible neighbor in the history of neighbors. When he is home and not on the road traveling for the team he treats every night as a after-party and it is so loud. Thalia is losing her patience and has had one to many sleepless nights. When she confronts him, he of course doesn't agree to quiet down. He doubles down by teasing her, tempting her way to many times and making her break every rule she has set for herself. However, a truce needs to be had and when he invites her to a game and she accepts they are both shocked. However, this is the beginning of a love story between two people who should never work on paper. I like these characters. This story really is a fun one to read and a great addition to this series.
June 10, 2025
4.5 Stars
Another winner in this multi author baseball series. I was hooked right from the beginning. Now I was with Tahlia on her neighbor in the beginning. I would have been pissed too. Jake proves both Tahlia and to me the reader there is so much more to this playboy ball player than his nighttime activities. I loved watching him woo Tahlia. One of the many things I liked about her was she didn't make it easy for him and his charm. Jake had to work for it for a change and you can see the maturity it lead to in Jake. I loved both their families so much. One of my favorite scenes is them all of them watching one of Jake's games. It's a slow burn with all the delicious tension. One thing that made Jake prime book boyfriend material is how he appreciates Tahlia for her and so supportive of her dreams. Can't get any better than that. The banter between these two right from their first meeting was another favorite part of mine. This book had the perfect combo of heart, humor, and slow burn heat. It was a book I was sad to finish because I didn't want it to end and say goodbye to these characters.
Another winner in this multi author baseball series. I was hooked right from the beginning. Now I was with Tahlia on her neighbor in the beginning. I would have been pissed too. Jake proves both Tahlia and to me the reader there is so much more to this playboy ball player than his nighttime activities. I loved watching him woo Tahlia. One of the many things I liked about her was she didn't make it easy for him and his charm. Jake had to work for it for a change and you can see the maturity it lead to in Jake. I loved both their families so much. One of my favorite scenes is them all of them watching one of Jake's games. It's a slow burn with all the delicious tension. One thing that made Jake prime book boyfriend material is how he appreciates Tahlia for her and so supportive of her dreams. Can't get any better than that. The banter between these two right from their first meeting was another favorite part of mine. This book had the perfect combo of heart, humor, and slow burn heat. It was a book I was sad to finish because I didn't want it to end and say goodbye to these characters.
June 16, 2025
4⭐️ 2🌶
I'm still loving this Tennessee Terrors series. This is book 4. They are all stand alones and have been a blast so far.
Tahlia, the law student and intern, has one of the funniest first meets ever with Jake, the centerfielder for the Terrors. He is a playboy who takes a serious liking to Tahlia at their first meeting. Tahlia is carrer focused and driven to succeed. she just finds jake absolutely annoying.
They both are full of witty comments, which makes the banter hysterical. They are slowburn, but it fits perfectly with Tahlia granted its a 180 for Jake, but he doesn't mind. He almost doesn't seem to notice. He knows she is worth the wait, and the friendship they build makes it all so much better. Tahlia and Jake bring the best of each other out. The bond the build is beautiful. Jake helps Tahlia study and supports her fully. Tahlia doesn't see Jake as a ball player but man outside of the fame. She goes to practice and games just to watch and show support for him. When Jake gets hurt, it changes everything for them in the best way.
This story was a good time, a perfect summer read.
Thank you, M.L. Preston and Wordsmith Publicity for this ARC. These are my honest opinions and feelings.
I'm still loving this Tennessee Terrors series. This is book 4. They are all stand alones and have been a blast so far.
Tahlia, the law student and intern, has one of the funniest first meets ever with Jake, the centerfielder for the Terrors. He is a playboy who takes a serious liking to Tahlia at their first meeting. Tahlia is carrer focused and driven to succeed. she just finds jake absolutely annoying.
They both are full of witty comments, which makes the banter hysterical. They are slowburn, but it fits perfectly with Tahlia granted its a 180 for Jake, but he doesn't mind. He almost doesn't seem to notice. He knows she is worth the wait, and the friendship they build makes it all so much better. Tahlia and Jake bring the best of each other out. The bond the build is beautiful. Jake helps Tahlia study and supports her fully. Tahlia doesn't see Jake as a ball player but man outside of the fame. She goes to practice and games just to watch and show support for him. When Jake gets hurt, it changes everything for them in the best way.
This story was a good time, a perfect summer read.
Thank you, M.L. Preston and Wordsmith Publicity for this ARC. These are my honest opinions and feelings.
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July 28, 2025I have a rule in mind every time a new year approaches. That rule is to let go of the books I’m not feeling. I tend to wait until I reach the quarter mark before DNFing a novel just to see if it picks up for me. Sadly, the premise of this novel sparked my interest and was there. However, I couldn’t get into this one. I found myself reading chapters over and constantly straying my attention elsewhere. I’m not blaming the novel, because I was once interested in reading this one. But right now, it’s not the time for me to read this book and review it honestly. So I decided to DNF Legal Catch by ML Preston.
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June 2, 2025
I completely loved this story from the very beginning. I couldn't get enough of Jake and Tahlia.
Jake is a playboy baseball player and has frequent parties and guests over for the night. Tahlia is studying to become a lawyer. She hears banging on the walls from her neighbor's apartment and gets so tired of hearing it. She takes action and angrily bangs on the door for him. When Jake opens the door in only a towel Tahlia is stunned. The banter ensues between the two that will have you laughing hysterically. I loved the chemistry between them.
After a few times of seeing Tahlia, Jake gives her a VIP ticket to one of his games. She shows up much to his surprise. He enjoys seeing her there and invites her over to a teammate's party. They realize they enjoy each other's company and are slowly falling for each other. Their relationship was a slow burn but so very enjoyable to read. I look forward to more from this talented author. This was a great story in the series.
I received an advanced copy from the author for an honest review.
Jake is a playboy baseball player and has frequent parties and guests over for the night. Tahlia is studying to become a lawyer. She hears banging on the walls from her neighbor's apartment and gets so tired of hearing it. She takes action and angrily bangs on the door for him. When Jake opens the door in only a towel Tahlia is stunned. The banter ensues between the two that will have you laughing hysterically. I loved the chemistry between them.
After a few times of seeing Tahlia, Jake gives her a VIP ticket to one of his games. She shows up much to his surprise. He enjoys seeing her there and invites her over to a teammate's party. They realize they enjoy each other's company and are slowly falling for each other. Their relationship was a slow burn but so very enjoyable to read. I look forward to more from this talented author. This was a great story in the series.
I received an advanced copy from the author for an honest review.
June 9, 2025
This is Book 5 of the Tennessee Terrors Series.
I was lucky enough to receive as an ARC 🥰
Legal Catch is a charming, chemistry-packed sports romance that perfectly blends sass, steam, and slow-burn tension. ML Preston delivers a delightful story full of banter, unexpected vulnerability, and the kind of emotional payoff that makes enemies-to-lovers fans swoon.
Tahlia Carter is laser-focused on passing the bar exam and building the legal career she’s dreamed of. A luxury condo was supposed to be her peaceful study sanctuary… until she finds herself living next to Jake Reynolds, a professional baseball player with a party-boy reputation and a knack for testing her patience.
Thin walls and loud nights ignite a fiery feud between the two. But when Tahlia calls Jake out, their snarky confrontations spark more than just irritation—there’s chemistry crackling between the insults. And when an unexpected gesture from Jake leads to a spontaneous outing, what began as tension begins to unravel into genuine connection.
Jake is more than just the charming athlete Tahlia assumed. And Tahlia? She’s far more than a rule-following law student. As their teasing turns into tender moments, both must confront what they really want—and whether love can be found in the middle of chaos and control.
With sharp dialogue, swoony romance, and relatable characters, Legal Catch is a fun, flirty read that balances heat with heart. It’s perfect for readers who love stories about two very different people discovering common ground—and maybe even a future together.
I was lucky enough to receive as an ARC 🥰
Legal Catch is a charming, chemistry-packed sports romance that perfectly blends sass, steam, and slow-burn tension. ML Preston delivers a delightful story full of banter, unexpected vulnerability, and the kind of emotional payoff that makes enemies-to-lovers fans swoon.
Tahlia Carter is laser-focused on passing the bar exam and building the legal career she’s dreamed of. A luxury condo was supposed to be her peaceful study sanctuary… until she finds herself living next to Jake Reynolds, a professional baseball player with a party-boy reputation and a knack for testing her patience.
Thin walls and loud nights ignite a fiery feud between the two. But when Tahlia calls Jake out, their snarky confrontations spark more than just irritation—there’s chemistry crackling between the insults. And when an unexpected gesture from Jake leads to a spontaneous outing, what began as tension begins to unravel into genuine connection.
Jake is more than just the charming athlete Tahlia assumed. And Tahlia? She’s far more than a rule-following law student. As their teasing turns into tender moments, both must confront what they really want—and whether love can be found in the middle of chaos and control.
With sharp dialogue, swoony romance, and relatable characters, Legal Catch is a fun, flirty read that balances heat with heart. It’s perfect for readers who love stories about two very different people discovering common ground—and maybe even a future together.
Did Not Finish
May 12, 2026DNF at chapter 3. Too much description of the minutea.
I weave between tables, mumbling apologies as my oversized tote bag bumps a few chairs and heads. “Oh, excuse me—” I wince as my tote smacks into the back of a chair, the metallic clink of keys inside drawing a sharp glare from the woman seated there. “Watch it!” she huffs, adjusting her sweater on the chair’s back. “Sorry, my bad!” I duck my head, gripping the straps tighter as I squeeze past another table. “Whoa, careful there,” a man mutters, jerking his coffee cup out of harm’s way just as my bag grazes the edge of his table. “I’m so sorry,” I mumble again, my face heating when I sidestep a kid spinning in his chair, the corner of my bag brushing his shoulder. “Hey!” he protests, but his mother shushes him with a distracted smile. I mutter another apology, my breath catching when I nearly knock over a stack of menus. My sister stands to greet me, pulling me into a hug that smells of her signature vanilla perfume.
And that's just one example. Not bad just not for me.
I weave between tables, mumbling apologies as my oversized tote bag bumps a few chairs and heads. “Oh, excuse me—” I wince as my tote smacks into the back of a chair, the metallic clink of keys inside drawing a sharp glare from the woman seated there. “Watch it!” she huffs, adjusting her sweater on the chair’s back. “Sorry, my bad!” I duck my head, gripping the straps tighter as I squeeze past another table. “Whoa, careful there,” a man mutters, jerking his coffee cup out of harm’s way just as my bag grazes the edge of his table. “I’m so sorry,” I mumble again, my face heating when I sidestep a kid spinning in his chair, the corner of my bag brushing his shoulder. “Hey!” he protests, but his mother shushes him with a distracted smile. I mutter another apology, my breath catching when I nearly knock over a stack of menus. My sister stands to greet me, pulling me into a hug that smells of her signature vanilla perfume.
And that's just one example. Not bad just not for me.
June 1, 2025
Book 5 in the Tennessee Terrors series and this one is a slow burn! Playboy of the team, Jake likes to party and have a good time every night back at his apartment. Unfortunately for his neighbor, who shares his bedroom wall, Tahlia likes to get sleep at night and not be kept awake with his extra curricular activities. While trying to study, work and rest, she finally storms over to Jakes to have words, except words fail her as soon as she sees him wrapped in a towel at his door.
Sassy sarcy banter ensues with all the teasing in flirty tones for weeks and after practically living together to help Jake’s recovery, their chemistry builds until tensions are high! This book keeps you on your toes as to when they will eventually cave! Great quick read, excellent addition to the series, lighthearted and fun!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Sassy sarcy banter ensues with all the teasing in flirty tones for weeks and after practically living together to help Jake’s recovery, their chemistry builds until tensions are high! This book keeps you on your toes as to when they will eventually cave! Great quick read, excellent addition to the series, lighthearted and fun!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
June 5, 2025
ML adds an amazing book to the Tennessee Terrors series! Each book has another player to fall in love when and a strong woman to break them from their past romances. Tahlia is paving her own way by becoming a lawyer, she’s been studying for the bar - but her loud neighbor has other plans for her quiet time. When Tahlia knocks on the door, the person who answers is surprising, Jake Reynolds’s. He is a wildly popular baseball player but his nightly escapades are getting to be too much. After Tahlia confronts him he starts to make amends, tickets to game, invite to practice, coffee… and it seems like he can’t get her out of his head. When Jake gets injured, Tahlia takes a leave of absence to help him. Jake has never cared about being in a relationship and he can have a temper when it comes to things he loves. Tahlia is strong and independent and is paving her own way but Jake is finding it hard for her to walk away.
June 1, 2025
4.5…A cute read and a great addition to this fun series. Tahlia is studying for her bar exams. This is something that she has been preparing herself for…her whole life. This is a dream come true and all her hard work is paying off. But those night time studying sessions keep getting interrupted by her neighbor. Jake is a professional baseball player who likes to have a good time off the field. When his neighbor knocks on his door to tell him to stop being loud…he has no idea what just happened. Because this man is smitten and she doesn’t care who he is…she’s perfect for him. Tahlia is sassy, funny and is not impressed with who Jake is…but boy does she fall hard. This is a fun story with great characters. Characters that have fun personalities, which brings us sassy banter and fun chemistry. This is a slow burn that is worth the wait. I am really enjoying this series. Each book is by a different author and each book is extremely entertaining. I’m already looking forward to reading the next book.
June 5, 2025
I had a great time reading this one! Tahlia and Jake were so good 👏🏻
This was a very slow burn and very mild spice baseball romance with the best flirty banter and main characters. I love their chemistry, the tension, the banter, the nicknames, the slow and steady romance building- it was great. They were definitely an opposites attract couple that were well written and made for an easy read you don’t want to put down. She is a disciplined, intelligent, and determined fmc; he is a fun, flirty and easy going mmc- together they compliment each other and their lives so flawlessly. This series has been a lot of fun to read- Looking forward to the rest of it! It is for sure a series that, so far, has proven to be books you want to read through in one sitting and give you the giddy sweet story feel. ❤️
This was a very slow burn and very mild spice baseball romance with the best flirty banter and main characters. I love their chemistry, the tension, the banter, the nicknames, the slow and steady romance building- it was great. They were definitely an opposites attract couple that were well written and made for an easy read you don’t want to put down. She is a disciplined, intelligent, and determined fmc; he is a fun, flirty and easy going mmc- together they compliment each other and their lives so flawlessly. This series has been a lot of fun to read- Looking forward to the rest of it! It is for sure a series that, so far, has proven to be books you want to read through in one sitting and give you the giddy sweet story feel. ❤️
June 7, 2025
I’m loving this multi-author series focused around the Tennessee Terrors. I’m getting the chance to read new-to-me authors and discovering some really talented writing.
This book was amazing! I loved how meeting Tahlia settled Jake and made him a better version of himself. Jake initially drives Tahlia nuts when he is just the obnoxious frat-boy neighbor, but once they actually meet his attention knocks her off her super focused stride. She allows herself the chance to breathe and enjoy life.
Tahlia is one of my favorite FMC. I love her no nonsense attitude and determination. Some of her responses to women sniffing after her man were just drop dead cold and so apropos.
Eager for more from this author and the rest of this series.
I received a free ARC from the author and Wordsmith PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
This book was amazing! I loved how meeting Tahlia settled Jake and made him a better version of himself. Jake initially drives Tahlia nuts when he is just the obnoxious frat-boy neighbor, but once they actually meet his attention knocks her off her super focused stride. She allows herself the chance to breathe and enjoy life.
Tahlia is one of my favorite FMC. I love her no nonsense attitude and determination. Some of her responses to women sniffing after her man were just drop dead cold and so apropos.
Eager for more from this author and the rest of this series.
I received a free ARC from the author and Wordsmith PR; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
June 10, 2025
⚾️Baseball Romance
⚖️Enemies to Lovers
⚾️ Law Clerk FMC
⚖️ Playboy MMC
⚾️ Opposites attract
⚖️ Forced Proximity
⚾️ Sass and Banter
So happy to continue the Tennessee Terrors series! 🤩 When you have a strong FMC like Tahlia trying to make her way through law school meet up with Jake, charming center fielder for the Terrors, the opposites definitely got to attract. Tahlia is the kind of woman that lets it be know she can support herself. Jake is a charmer, well known to be the team wild child. But when these two are in the same space, it’s like wildfire. Love the banter and the sass, the back and forth. This series has yet to disappoint and I highly down it ever will! If you haven’t started yet, what are you waiting for? This book gave all the good feels. I need the next one stat!
Thanks to @mlpreston and @wordsmithpublicity for the review copy.
⚖️Enemies to Lovers
⚾️ Law Clerk FMC
⚖️ Playboy MMC
⚾️ Opposites attract
⚖️ Forced Proximity
⚾️ Sass and Banter
So happy to continue the Tennessee Terrors series! 🤩 When you have a strong FMC like Tahlia trying to make her way through law school meet up with Jake, charming center fielder for the Terrors, the opposites definitely got to attract. Tahlia is the kind of woman that lets it be know she can support herself. Jake is a charmer, well known to be the team wild child. But when these two are in the same space, it’s like wildfire. Love the banter and the sass, the back and forth. This series has yet to disappoint and I highly down it ever will! If you haven’t started yet, what are you waiting for? This book gave all the good feels. I need the next one stat!
Thanks to @mlpreston and @wordsmithpublicity for the review copy.
June 14, 2025
After years of hard work Tahilia is so close to achieving her dream of becoming a lawyer and can’t afford to be distracted. This is why she has had enough of the activity from her neighbor’s apartment but what supposed to be a brief encounter where they will never have to cross each other’s paths again becomes anything but.
Jake is a man who enjoys the perks of playing baseball professionally. He is outgoing and never short of company, so when he meets his irate neighbor he believes his suave personality will win her over, but he soon realizes that the way she makes him feel is unlike anything he has ever felt before.
At first glance Tahilia and Jake appear to have nothing in common, but it is their very different approaches to life that make them perfect for each other. The feelings between them are intense and the interactions are humorous.
Jake is a man who enjoys the perks of playing baseball professionally. He is outgoing and never short of company, so when he meets his irate neighbor he believes his suave personality will win her over, but he soon realizes that the way she makes him feel is unlike anything he has ever felt before.
At first glance Tahilia and Jake appear to have nothing in common, but it is their very different approaches to life that make them perfect for each other. The feelings between them are intense and the interactions are humorous.
June 24, 2025
I loved every page of this slow-burn!
Jake and Tahlia had me hooked from their first hilarious, late-night, tension-filled intro. Their chemistry makes you feel it, and even though their relationship took its time to bloom, it was so worth the wait. The buildup felt authentic—every look, every tease, every unspoken moment layered perfectly until it all spilled over in the most satisfying way.
Tahlia’s drive and laser focus paired with Jake’s carefree charm made for such a fun, opposites-attract dynamic. Watching their banter evolve into something deeper was like being in on a juicy secret—you just know it’s only a matter of time before the sparks ignite. And when they do? It's🔥🔥🔥!
If you’re a fan of slow-burn romances with undeniable tension and a whole lot of heart, Jake and Tahlia’s story delivers in the best way. 🖤
Jake and Tahlia had me hooked from their first hilarious, late-night, tension-filled intro. Their chemistry makes you feel it, and even though their relationship took its time to bloom, it was so worth the wait. The buildup felt authentic—every look, every tease, every unspoken moment layered perfectly until it all spilled over in the most satisfying way.
Tahlia’s drive and laser focus paired with Jake’s carefree charm made for such a fun, opposites-attract dynamic. Watching their banter evolve into something deeper was like being in on a juicy secret—you just know it’s only a matter of time before the sparks ignite. And when they do? It's🔥🔥🔥!
If you’re a fan of slow-burn romances with undeniable tension and a whole lot of heart, Jake and Tahlia’s story delivers in the best way. 🖤
July 14, 2025
a lawyer a baseball player and a noise complaint
Slow burn where the two main characters tae their time to build a relationship before becoming intimate. A very dufferebt soirts rinabce, Thalaia is super focused studying for the bar exam while working full time. She is self assured confident and totally immune to Jakes charm.Jake hasn't let his fame go to his head but is very much into the lifestyle it provides and a determined bachelor. He wasn't expecting someone like thalia but can't get her out of his mind. Totally focused on passing the bar exam Thalia doesn;t have time for a distraction like the flity guy next door but he keeps creeping into her mind uninvitged. I gave it five stars even though the inrrusive sisteer and friend were irritating and the ending seems rushed and incomplete.
Slow burn where the two main characters tae their time to build a relationship before becoming intimate. A very dufferebt soirts rinabce, Thalaia is super focused studying for the bar exam while working full time. She is self assured confident and totally immune to Jakes charm.Jake hasn't let his fame go to his head but is very much into the lifestyle it provides and a determined bachelor. He wasn't expecting someone like thalia but can't get her out of his mind. Totally focused on passing the bar exam Thalia doesn;t have time for a distraction like the flity guy next door but he keeps creeping into her mind uninvitged. I gave it five stars even though the inrrusive sisteer and friend were irritating and the ending seems rushed and incomplete.
July 21, 2025
Tahlia, currently a law trainee, has a singular aim, to succeed in the bar exam and begin her legal career. She faces a problem with her beloved luxury condo; she sought tranquility and a study space, but it appears her neighbor has different intentions. Her patience is wearing out, that neighbor partying all night! She is about to face him.
Jake Reynolds, the centerfielder for the Tennessee Terrors, is charismatic and treats each evening as a private after party, with thin walls. Even his coach will confirm he is the team's free spirit.
So, this unruly kid gets hurt, and guess who steps in to help care for him? Why? Yet, it's so delightful.
You will enjoy reading this book as you observe their development; they learn about one another without being hurried. They relentlessly teased one another; the back-and-forth is excellent.
Jake Reynolds, the centerfielder for the Tennessee Terrors, is charismatic and treats each evening as a private after party, with thin walls. Even his coach will confirm he is the team's free spirit.
So, this unruly kid gets hurt, and guess who steps in to help care for him? Why? Yet, it's so delightful.
You will enjoy reading this book as you observe their development; they learn about one another without being hurried. They relentlessly teased one another; the back-and-forth is excellent.
June 3, 2025
Such a fun and cute novel! I have read some of the other novels in this series and enjoyed them. This novel did not disappoint. I love a good enemies to lovers that has great dialogue and banter between the characters. I was excited to jump back into this series and I was not let down. I loved both Tahlia and Jake. I loved how they met each other. I loved watching them interact and torment each other. It was so much fun watching them lower their walls and defenses and open themselves up to each other and fall in love. Their chemistry was so good! Once I started reading I didn't want to put it down because I was having such a good time reading what was happening next. So good! So much fun! I can hardly wait to see what this author has coming next.
June 3, 2025
This is the fifth book in this impressive series, and this is Jake and Tahlia’s story.
Tahlia is a lawyer-in-training, who craves order in her life, while Jake is a charming centrefielder pro baseball player, who thrives on chaos. Tahlia is pushed to the limits with the noise level from her neighbor, whom she shares a bedroom wall with, and knocks on his door to confront him, and there is an attraction between them.
This is a well written slow burn story, which has enemies / lovers, tension, forced proximity, opposites attract, challenges, humor, witty banter, emotions, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and fun, captivating page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Tahlia is a lawyer-in-training, who craves order in her life, while Jake is a charming centrefielder pro baseball player, who thrives on chaos. Tahlia is pushed to the limits with the noise level from her neighbor, whom she shares a bedroom wall with, and knocks on his door to confront him, and there is an attraction between them.
This is a well written slow burn story, which has enemies / lovers, tension, forced proximity, opposites attract, challenges, humor, witty banter, emotions, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and fun, captivating page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
June 4, 2025
If you are familiar with Shaina Twain's song, That Don't Impress Me Much, this would be Tahlia's theme song. Even when she learned who Jake is, she did not become a groupie or fall head over heels for him instantly. In fact, it was entertaining to see Jake have to work so hard to impress Tahlia.
The witty banter lead up to extra steamy chemistry between Talia and Jake. Ooh, those scenes are the chef's kiss!
I really loved this book a lot. In fact, I would say it is my favorite in this series. I am a sucker for witty banter. This book had tons of the witty banter. If you are looking for your next enemies to lovers, must read, then you are going to want to make sure this book is on your tbr list!
The witty banter lead up to extra steamy chemistry between Talia and Jake. Ooh, those scenes are the chef's kiss!
I really loved this book a lot. In fact, I would say it is my favorite in this series. I am a sucker for witty banter. This book had tons of the witty banter. If you are looking for your next enemies to lovers, must read, then you are going to want to make sure this book is on your tbr list!
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