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Strike Three: Major League Series

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Carter Jennings is finally feeling like himself again after recovering from a UCL surgery two years ago. His career is at an all time high and he’s about to sign a massive contract with the Nashville Gnats. But, the shy, twenty-five year old closer is about to have his world flipped upside down. In just a few short weeks, everything changes.

Madelyn Bishop is a thirty-two year old accountant. Her life consists of numbers, spreadsheets, and data. Oh, and baby bottles. Not only is she a new mom, but she’s also newly single, and recently started a new job with the Gnats. In a whirlwind of new beginnings a blast from the past comes in and rocks her world.

The second their eyes meet again they both know they’re in trouble. Carter wants to find any way to spend more time with her, even if that means making her his agent. Except, signing the contract takes a turn when Madi’s water breaks and Carter’s the only one there. From then on, the friendship buds to romance in a slow and steady burn.

Until Madi’s ex and father of her child decides it’s time to make her life hell. For Carter, suddenly baseball isn’t the most important thing anymore.

373 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 3, 2025

6 people are currently reading
48 people want to read

About the author

Haylee Trew

7 books49 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
Profile Image for Arianna.
145 reviews
April 24, 2025
First of all, thank you Love Notes PR for selecting me to be part of the ARC team!

It was a really cute reading, sweet with very spicy moments between the characters. Their story is filled with so many events, some really good while others a bit concerning! I really like the reverse age gap, something we don’t see very often. It was refreshing.

Although I enjoyed the whole book, I didn’t click with the MCs. They didn’t give me all the good feels I usually experience when I’m reading. But that’s on me, of course. The narration was smooth, enticing (a tad repetitive) which really captured the reader’s attention.

Finally, it’s a good book which I recommend, especially if you’ve already read the other books in the series!
Profile Image for Dimitra.
473 reviews9 followers
April 25, 2025
Strike Three 🍼💚

Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes Pr and Haylee Threw for trusting me with this ARC.✨

Yes, we have a pregnancy trope.No,it is not the usual one(gotcha)
Carter, a player is about to get into a massive contract for his career when his world suddently got upside down.At the same time,Madi,our girl,who is newly single and just singed a aggrement with the Gnats is about to meet someone that will have her to get even more sleepless nights.-yes,in a good way!
Threw's writing flews around,I will not say that we have a fast paced romance,but we definitely have a fast paced writing style that I absolutely enjoyed,with the only reason it slows down is when we have some steamy,sm*tty scenes going on.Even though she chose a trope that many readers despice-me being one of them-she truly formed it in a way that it only not cringy yet lovely,focusing on dating while in motherhood and specifically how a man SHOULD behave around his girl.
Speaking of this man Carter-oh,my god the man you are,while he is young he knows not only what a woman wants yet what HE wants,-real world men,who?.He protects,loves and cares with all his heart.
Also,we have so much WONDEFUL SMUT going on that had me under my blanket 🌶️🌶️🌶️.She manges to describe every inch and moment of the deed without making boring or cringey,with every sentnce being better than the previous one.
Long story short,a BIG YES
4⭐
Profile Image for Dani Hendrix.
11 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2025
Thank you to Love Notes PR for selecting me to be part of the ARC team! First off, here's why Strike Three was a 2.5 or generous 3-star read for me. I did find the narrative quite repetitive and overly explained (i.e. the MCs taking multiple pages to describe the relationships they have with their parents or their thought processes when multiple pages weren't really needed to accomplish this, etc.), which turned me off some. As a writer and editor myself, I can appreciate the attention to detail for what it is and the purpose it can serve, but I also think the detail here was a bit overkill for readers. Some parts seemed rushed (like Madi's water suddenly breaking out of almost nowhere), but I think that's also the point: Madi and Carter fell fast and moved quickly!

Here's what I loved about Strike Three: The reverse age gap was SO refreshing! I also loved seeing Carter step up to be not only the anchor Madi needed, but for Bailey as well. His love for both of them is so admirable and smile-inducing. From the moment he met Bailey in the hospital to the moment he adopted her (and beyond, as implied by Bailey's epilogue), it's abundantly clear that that man does not mess around when it comes to his girls. I'd have loved to have seen Joseph's bitch ass humbled once and for all over the hush-hush at the end but hey, at least the trash was taken out! Also, I think it would be super fun and enticing to readers to plan a spinoff series in the future featuring the kiddos of all these baseball guys, since we got a taste of it with Bailey. Overall, a cute and easy little read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Gosia.
262 reviews4 followers
May 4, 2025
ARC review

I was very excited for this book based on tropes. It started off quite good, but settled on 3⭐️ pretty quickly and unfortunately around 40% went downhill and ended around 1-2⭐️
I’m still debating if I should give it 1 or 2 stars, but I think I will go with 1.

There were too much things not making sense. Way more drama made of wrong parts of the plot, while the parts that could be deeper were very shallowed.

I didn’t feel the chemistry between the main characters at all. Many scenes (more towards the end) gave me an ick.
I read quite a lot of spice, I’ve read some crazy/unhinged spice, but this book was the first that gave me real ick when reading spicy scenes. It was not about WHAT they were doing but the writing. It wasn’t working with the rest of the story at all, it also wasn’t working with how the characters were built outside spicy scenes.

There was so much emphasis made on the fact that both MC and FMC did not want children, that I expected for this to be somehow resolved in the story with bigger background than just “well let’s go with it”.

The whole part of the plot with her ex, I mean literally this whole plotline was useless, not making ANY sense.

It’s not a bad book, but way too many things were getting on my nerves. I need more mature and structured writing and plot execution, which this book lacked.
Profile Image for Sammy D.
74 reviews6 followers
May 3, 2025
Strike Three by Hayley Trew has an emotional core that comes through clearly, especially in the connection between the main characters. The story touches on love, trust, and unexpected family dynamics, which are engaging themes.

That said, a lot of the narrative centers on the FMC having a daughter and both main characters grappling with the idea of parenthood—particularly their shared stance of never wanting kids. These points are revisited so frequently that they start to overshadow the rest of the story. I found myself wishing for more plot development and variety as the book went on.

It’s a heartfelt read with a gentle pace, but I was hoping for a bit more depth and forward momentum in the narrative.
Profile Image for Amber.
1,024 reviews44 followers
May 4, 2025
We met Carter and Madi in book two, when they met at a bar and had an ONS. Strike Three is set a year and a half later and Carter is about to sign a new contract and guess who is the team's new account, Madi. Their attraction is still there, both have never forgotten their night together. Carter is even more surprised to see Madi is pregnant. Since the pull is still there, he wants to be friends. When he learns that she is no longer with the father, he wants to be more. They hang out and their relationship grows. Carter is all in but Madi has her hesitations. Carter does all he can to prove he's all in for them both. When he ex starts to cause drama, can they make it through?
Profile Image for Brittany.
37 reviews3 followers
April 20, 2025
One of my favorite books of the year! I loved Carter and Madelyn’s story! It was very sweet. I loved the process of the ring shopping and how he picked it out. I’m a huge sports romance reader, this series is definitely worth the read. I could not put the book down. I was hooked from the dedication page. If you love sports romance(especially baseball) and love a good reverse age gap, friends to lovers, all the spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️, new mom, with a MLB Closer and the team accountant then this is absolutely for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ciara Lugo.
191 reviews
April 29, 2025
I LOVE this series! Between it being all baseball to the characters themselves. The relatability of the characters. The MMCs in these books 🥵 Oof. I still think Hudson may be my favorite though 🖤 These books are hands down one of my favorites that I can reread forever! I love that I was luckily enough to be an ARC reader for the last 2 books 🩶🩷💚
Profile Image for Hannah Hartridge.
113 reviews1 follower
May 6, 2025
Haylee Trew has served up the ultimate swoony, spicy, feel-it-in-your-bones romance with Strike Three. I devoured this book and lived for every single second of Madelyn and Carter’s fiery, banter-filled, emotionally loaded story.

Let’s talk about these two. Madi and Carter start with a one-night stand that quickly explodes into something so much more—an epic friendship wrapped in tension, trust, and absolutely magnetic chemistry. Their connection is instant, but the way they grow together is what really makes this book shine. The banter? Top-tier. The flirting? Delicious. The emotional intimacy? Gut-punching in the best way.

Despite their age gap (which they joke about constantly), they fit. Effortlessly. Carter sees Madi—every sharp edge, every soft part—and he meets her exactly where she is. And Madi? She brings out this beautiful, untapped side of Carter that’s just...everything. He starts as the guy who never saw himself with a wife or a kid—and ends up being the most loving, protective, head-over-heels family man for Madi and Bailey. The way he falls in love with both of them made my ovaries ache. No joke, I was kicking my feet and squealing with every sweet scene.

Madi is a powerhouse. Fierce, loyal, and absolutely devoted to her daughter, she’s a mama bear in heels and a heart of gold. Her friendships with Erica and Sarah? So real, so ride-or-die, and full of the kind of moments that made me laugh and tear up all in one chapter.

And the family dynamics? WOW. Madi and Carter don’t just fall for each other—they bring their entire lives along for the ride, and it’s beautiful to watch. Madi’s parents are loving, grounded, and fiercely protective of their daughter and granddaughter. Their warmth radiates off the page and you can tell exactly where Madi gets her strength from. Carter’s parents? Equally amazing. Supportive, open-hearted, and fully in his corner even when he’s fumbling his way through love and fatherhood. They don’t just accept Madi and Bailey—they embrace them. It’s the kind of blended-family magic that makes your heart feel so damn full.

Carter’s teammates also add so much color and comic relief, but they’re also his rock-solid support system when things get tough. And Madi’s ex? Let’s just say he deserves a very special place in the literary hall of shame. A manipulative, selfish snake who never deserved a woman like Madi or a daughter like Bailey. Watching Carter step into that space and love them the way they should be loved? Utterly satisfying.

And we cannot forget the spice. This book brings the heat. Carter is flirty, filthy, and oh-so-kinky—but only for Madi. Their intimacy is more than just steam—it’s this perfect blend of passion and deep emotional connection that makes every spicy scene hit hard. You’ll need a fan. Or two.

Plus—TWO epilogues! Haylee Trew blesses us with not one but two perfect endings, and I couldn’t stop smiling. Seeing how far this little family comes, and dreaming about Bailey’s future story? Pure joy.

If you love stories with heart, heat, family, found love, and banter that will leave you cackling—Strike Three is your next read. This book had me kicking my feet, gasping, laughing, and swooning nonstop.
Profile Image for Mégan Isabelle.
123 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2025
5 🌟
3 🌶️

⚾️ Reverse age gap
💚 One night to friends to lovers
⚾️ Team accountant X MLB closer
💚 New mom
⚾️ Found family

Okay, I loved this book. Haylee brought together all my favorite tropes—I seriously couldn’t put it down! I hadn’t even started reading yet, and I already knew it would end up on my list of favorites.
From the outside, it looks like Carter and Madelyn’s friends-to-lovers, second-chance story. But this isn’t just a romance—it’s about rediscovering yourself when life doesn’t go the way you planned. Madelyn is a new mom, carrying the weight of single parenthood and past heartbreak, trying to rebuild her life one quiet step at a time. She’s doing her best, holding it all together, but you can feel how heavy the silence is around her.

And then there’s Carter. Loyal, patient and protective. A pro baseball player with a big heart, and the guy who’s always been there. They’ve known each other for years, but when life throws them back together? Sparks. Everywhere. The chemistry between Carter and Madi felt so natural and real. Their banter? On point. Their emotional connection? Deep. And don’t even get me started on Carter being sweet and protective with Madi’s baby—I melted.

What I really loved is that this story isn’t just about falling in love. It’s about showing up for the people you care about, growing through the hard stuff, and taking a leap even when it’s scary. Their relationship doesn’t rush. It unfolds slowly, gently. It gives space for fear, for doubt, for the push and pull of two people learning how to trust again. Watching Madi learn how to accept love, not just give it, was honestly beautiful. And Carter? He’s not just the charming baseball player, he’s the safe place she didn’t know she needed. He never left. He saw her at her lowest and still looked at her like she was everything. He showed her that love can be both soft and strong, that it can hold you steady while giving you the space to grow. He’s the steady presence that’s always been there, just waiting for her to be ready. And the reverse age gap? It wasn’t just a cute plot twist, it added depth and made their dynamic feel fresh and real. Just two people with history, learning to be brave with their feelings and honest about their fears.

This is book 3 in the Major League series, which are interconnected standalones, but I’d definitely recommend reading the first one to really get to know the characters and dive deeper into this world.

Thank you to Lovenotes PR and Haylee for this incredible ARC opportunity! I volunteered to review.
Profile Image for Lindsey Adams.
1,110 reviews22 followers
May 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️

This is my first time reading anything by Haylee Trew. Strike Three is the third installment in her interconnected series, Major Leagues. Being able to read this book as a standalone stands firm as I never felt lost or that I missed out on our MCs storyline by not reading the first two. Will I go back and read them though? Yes, yes I will. Haylee provides enough backstory to know our MCs met in book two, but book three is their story!

Carter was a fun and swoony MMC that I really enjoyed reading about. He is so ready to sign the biggest deal of his baseball career. While meeting the team, he sees a face from the past that he’s never forgotten. His one night stand from almost two years ago. Although her current circumstances doesn’t leave room for romance, he is still wanting to be friends. However as the story progresses and he learns more about her life, he can’t ignore the pull that is there and that he wants more.

Madi is the FMC that I love reading out. She is confident, fierce, and knows her worth. Nothing throws her, except when her one night stand shows up in the offices of the baseball team she works for. As they reignite a friendship, the pull is mutual. When she finally tells him she is no longer with the father of her child, Carter is quick to say he wants more from their relationship. Carter definitely proves he is willing to put the work in and when her ex shows back up, causing a massive disruption, he is quick to step in and be there for her in a way no one has ever been.

Haylee wrote an epic story between these two that may have been a slow burn, her writing style is not. The story is fast paced, but sincere and romantic. Carter and Madi compliment each other so well, but also bring out the best versions of each other. Their connection is easy to feel and their chemistry is off the charts. And beyond them, the side characters, minus Madi’s ex, are amazing and supportive. Oh those epilogues?!?! Chef’s kiss!!

As always, review any author notes before reading.

What to Expect:
⚾Reverse Age Gap
🍼Workplace Romance
⚾Team Accountant x MLB Closer
🍼Single Mom FMC
⚾Blast from the Past
🍼Not His Baby
⚾He Falls First
Profile Image for Madison Causey.
8 reviews
May 8, 2025
Strike Three
By: Haylee Trew

First, a huge thank you to Love Notes for the ARC!


This book was everything I didn’t know I needed giggles, heart-fluttering moments, happy tears, and a whirlwind romance I couldn’t put down. My first baseball romance, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

We start with Madelyn and Carter meeting in a bar. A fun one-night stand with zero expectations. Simple, right? Wrong. Fast forward a year and a half, and Madelyn’s world flips. She’s pregnant (not Carter’s), and her boyfriend Joseph bolts, leaving her to start over. Determined to rebuild, she lands a job as an accountant for the Nashville baseball team. Everything’s going great…until she steps into a contract signing meeting and comes face-to-face with Carter Jennings—her unforgettable one-night stand.

What follows is a rollercoaster. Madelyn becomes a new mom, juggles her career, and somehow ends up falling for the sweet, slightly chaotic, and much younger Carter. Seriously, Carter is a walking green flag—adorable, hilarious, and always showing up when she needs him most.

Madelyn is fierce and protective as a mother, but there were moments I wanted to shake her, yell, and say, "Girl, open your eyes!" Her cautious nature was relatable but sometimes SO frustrating in the best way.

This book had me hooked. I was smiling, I was nervous, I was cheering them on and the tension when I thought things were going too well around chapter 20 was REAL.

If you love slow-burn romances with a perfect blend of sweetness, swoon-worthy moments, and just enough drama to keep you on your toes this one’s for you. Can’t recommend it enough!
Profile Image for Brooke O'Neill.
20 reviews
May 10, 2025
First off, thanks to lovenotespr for this e-arc. I will start off by saying I really wanted to love this book as I generally love sports romance books, and while overall it wasn’t a bad book, there were just a few things that made it hard for me to really enjoy it fully.
I’ll start with the pros first;
PROS: there was a good plot, the characters were mostly likable, the story didn’t seem overly drawn out, and it was well written grammatically, it was hea which I loved,
CONS: the time line seemed confused and mixed up a lot, for instance saying it had been a year, then a year and a half, then 2 years, to lastly saying “forever” since Carter and Madi’s first meeting. Then both Carter and Madi seemed to be all over the place on how they felt about almost everything in life. Right out the gate Carter is so glad he’s single and has no commitments so he can travel and enjoy his life. But within a few pages he’s talking about wanting a relationship and a house with someone to settle down with. Just seemed very contradictory and hard to follow. There are other situations like this throughout the book and the one that made me feel like I wanted to pull my hair out was that Madi, and 32 year old women, one second is talking about her future with Carter and basically agrees she wants to get married but then in the very next chapter, barely 3 pages later, has a full on meltdown over him fully suggesting it. Just made her seem way less mature that you would expect from someone in their 30s and also made it seem like there was a disconnect in the writing.
I was also not a fan of how the ex kept coming back in and everyone would fully panic every time and it just seemed to forced and unlikely/unrealistic which took away from the story in my opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Emily.
793 reviews33 followers
April 27, 2025
This is Book 3 of the Major League Series!

I was lucky enough to receive as an ARC 🥰

Strike Three completely stole my heart with its refreshing mix of swoony sports romance and deep emotional healing. Carter Jennings, a 25-year-old MLB closer on the rise, is finally back on top after injury — but the last thing he expects is for fate to throw Madelyn Bishop back into his life.

Madelyn is a 32-year-old accountant, new mom, and newly single. Her life is a whirl of baby bottles and spreadsheets when she runs into Carter — the boy she once knew, now very much a man determined to be part of her life.

Their slow-burn friendship-to-romance is absolute perfection. From helping Madi through her surprise labor to standing by her through the chaos her toxic ex stirs up, Carter shows up again and again in the sweetest ways. The age gap, the protective instincts, the moments of vulnerability — it all felt so natural and earned.

What I loved most? Carter realises that baseball — the thing he’s spent his entire life chasing — suddenly isn't the most important thing anymore. Madi and her baby become his everything.

If you love:
✨ Single mom romances that melt your heart
✨ Slow and steady emotional builds
✨ Sports heroes who fall hard and fast
✨ Found family and unconditional love
you’re going to devour this story.
Profile Image for kayla.
182 reviews
May 2, 2025
3.5⭐️ 2🌶️

CARTER! The sweetest gentleman you will ever meet. I absolutely adored him. Madi on the other hand pissed me off for majority of the book. Instead of just calmly and rationally think things through sometimes, she would just fly off the handles. She wouldn’t let people finish their thought before she jumped to conclusions. Additionally, as someone who went to university and lived in Nashville a bit, I want to say that the paparazzi thing was a bit dramatized. Most people tend to mind their business and go about their day. Not once did I ever see paparazzi in my time there. People might sneakily take pictures with celebrities and artist or ask for pictures but paparazzi are virtually nonexistent. I think Carter was an absolute saint for the pure patience it took him to fight for her. I understand Madi’s hang ups and her insecurities caused by her previous relationship but geez. There were so many parts I loved and overall the writing was great. I just didn’t love certain parts and Madi for most of the story. And I don’t understand why someone didn’t put Joseph in his place or someone like Hudson didn’t do more to hold power over his narcissistic coward self. I did adore the sense of community and family that supported them every step of the way. And that second Epilogue 👀.
Profile Image for  •Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥.
3,445 reviews155 followers
May 10, 2025
Being new to this author's work I've been looking forward to getting into this series! As soon as this one was announced I wanted to read it. I got right into the Major League world. I so enjoyed this story!

Carter and Madelyn's journey captured my attention quickly! Colliding with another soul can stay with you, something Madelyn and Carter both know when it comes to one another. Carter is the closing pitcher for the Nashville Gnats. Madelyn is the accountant for the Nashville Gnats team and is pregnant. As Madelyn and Carter are brought back into each other's lives could they take a chance and be together?

Both Madelyn and Carter got me into their story. I really liked the way that these two were reunited and how they both worked for the Nashville Gnats. I enjoyed getting to see Carter and Madelyn form a friendship. I couldn't wait to see how they'd deal with all things Nashville Gnats, Madelyn's ex, parenthood, and their feelings for each other.

Carter and Madelyn both showed realness throughout. I was glad that I got to dive into both of their minds. I really liked seeing Madelyn become a mom. I adored how Carter was there for both Madelyn and her child. The chemistry between Madelyn and Carter was blushworthy and so good! I enjoyed getting to see Madelyn and Carter both fall and them figuring out things in their lives. It wasn't quite so easy for these two. I felt many things with Carter and Madelyn all throughout reading!

From baseball and the characters to the setting, I enjoyed being in the Major League world for the first time.

With Strike Three, Ms.Trew has created such a good read that brought team accountant X MLB closer, single mom, baseball, friendship, spice, and feels! I'm looking forward to reading more from this author, especially the two previous Major League installments. 💚⚾🍼

Check out the author's content warning.


*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Love Notes PR / the author*
Profile Image for gemma.louise.xx.books.
419 reviews6 followers
May 2, 2025
Carter is just about to sign a huge contract with his baseball team when he walks into the meeting and comes face to face with Madi, his one night stand from two years ago and the woman he can’t get off his mind. Madi doesn’t want a relationship. She’s 8 months pregnant, starting a new job with the team and alone after her ex kicked her out when she told him she was pregnant. But then Carter is there when Madi goes in to labour and keeps showing up for her and her daughter. How can she possibly resist him? But when her resurfaces and starts throwing around threats, will they need to end their relationship to keep him out of their lives or can they fight him together?

Ok so I’m new to the baseball romance thing and baseball as a whole but I really enjoyed this! There wasn’t too much sport focused stuff, just mentions of Carter being a player, and a couple of baseball references I have no idea about 🤣 I loved the relationship between Madi and Carter but I absolutely adored the way Carter was with Bailey!! There’s something about a man losing himself to a baby that’s super hot! I definitely need to read the previous books in the series and the second epilogue has me super intrigued!!

Profile Image for Mandy Webb.
289 reviews7 followers
May 5, 2025
I thought this book was so cute! It was a sweet little sports romance.
Spicy moments were HOT. The reverse age-gap trope was so fun to see, I always love women getting to be the older of the two characters.
Pregnancy trope was done so well, in fact, it was refreshing to see it done differently!
I was able to click with Trew's writing because the pace was ideal for me. Fast-paced story writing is something I love to see in a book.
I loved that this was a Baseball sports romance. I read so many hockey, that I love it when I find a different sport.
The book also took on emotional healing, and it was sweet to watch develop.
I felt the characters were relatable and well-developed. The plot was well structured and paced appropriately.
There was a found family aspect to the book, falling in love hard and fast, single mom romance, and an MMC that learns the thing he has worked his entire life for (baseball), isn't the most important thing to him anymore.
I LOVED this book!
Easy 4.5 stars.
Thank you so much to LoveNotes PR and Haylee Trew for the opportunity to take part in reading and reviewing this ARC. I am now a forever Haylee Trew fan and I will be going back to read the first two books!
Happy Reading!
Profile Image for Josiiluvs.boooks.
17 reviews
May 11, 2025
Thank you Love Notes PR and Haylee Trew for the read!

RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

It was one of my first times reading a reverse age gap book. Honestly speaking, it surprisingly wasn’t too bad. This book definitely opened a new trope for me!

Goodness, I need me a man exactly like Carter. He was everything and more. An athlete willing to step up for his favorite girls is the best thing to read. For being young, he knew exactly what be wanted and did not play around when it came down to his girls.

Although it was easy for me to connect with Carter, I found it a bit harder with Madi. And here’s what I think happened - knowing Madi was older than Carter by a couple years, it was hard to read scenes where she acted a bit immaculately. SCENE MENTION: For example, there was a scene where they’re at his house and acknowledged she puts he baby first and tells her as much as he wants her to stay… he’s gonna take her home. Her reply is to whine, groan, and protest… I can’t not see this as complaining and i’m not sure why.

However overall, it was a good book to read! I loved their ending & how their siblings also reunite them again. Loved watching Carter have the character development he did. Now available on KU!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for ♡Angelique♡.
198 reviews2 followers
April 20, 2025
“Carter, I need you to know that we choose you. We choose you today, tomorrow, and for every tomorrow after that."

I really loved Carter and Madi's story!

I loved how Carter was a very introverted and emotionally intelligent MMC. We don't get too many of them in Sports Romances. He was not afraid to show his emotions for Madi and Bailey and when you get to.... that period of the book... i was just as devastated as he was.

“Get it through your head, woman. It’s you. I want you.”

I also enjoyed Madi as a character. She was very proof driven and if something was outside of her carefully idealized plan, it threw her for a spiral. I did appreciate her growth and that her body struggles after Bailey was born were shown.

“You’re too good to us, Carter Jennings. In a world full of shitty people, you’re the good.”

The only thing stopping this story from being a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ story is how reliant on Madi and Carter's age difference became. I didn't think 7 years, in either direction, is a big age gap. Sometimes, they made their age seem like 15 years. I think if this was not a super focus of their story, this would have been a 5⭐️ easily.
243 reviews
May 3, 2025
It was an adorable read, charming with quite a few passionate moments between the characters. Their narrative is packed with numerous occurrences, some quite positive while others are somewhat worrisome! I'm quite fond of the reverse age difference, which is something that's rarely observed. It was rejuvenating.

Carter Jennings, a 25-year-old emerging MLB closer, has finally returned to form after an injury — yet he never anticipates that fate will reintroduce Madelyn Bishop into his life. He may not be a "playboy," but he's someone who isn't looking to settle down and is certain he doesn't want kids in the near future, or perhaps ever.

Newly a mother, and currently single. Maddie's world centers on baby bottles and spreadsheets when she meets Carter — the boy she once knew, now unmistakably a man keen to be part of her life.

Carter and Madi make a wonderful pair. Their energy embodies everything a character ought to be; they are aspirational. I usually don't prefer reverse age gaps, but I really enjoyed these characters. Carter is wise beyond his years; he understands his desires and battles to achieve them. Madi thinks in a manner similar to a mother and addresses issues with maturity. I adored how she reconciled with him; it was incredibly cute. I truly appreciated observing the mindset of a man purchasing a ring. The style he selected and the way it was depicted was ideal; I could nearly envision it.
Profile Image for Misty Wilson.
46 reviews
May 1, 2025
Haylee Trew's Strike Three is a grand slam in the world of sports romance! This third installment in the Major League Series masterfully blends heartwarming relationships, personal growth, and the high-stakes drama of professional baseball.
The story follows Carter Jennings, a talented closer recovering from a career-threatening injury, and Madelyn Bishop, a single mom navigating new beginnings. Their journey from friendship to romance is beautifully crafted, with moments of vulnerability, humor, and undeniable chemistry. Trew's characters are richly developed, making their struggles and triumphs feel deeply relatable.
The pacing is impeccable, with just the right balance of emotional depth and lighthearted moments. Trew's writing shines in her ability to capture the nuances of human connection while weaving in the excitement of the sports world. Fans of slow-burn romance and reverse age-gap dynamics will find this book utterly captivating.
Strike Three is a testament to Haylee Trew's talent as a storyteller, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Major League Series. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a heartfelt and engaging read!
Profile Image for Amy.
219 reviews3 followers
May 3, 2025
Carter Jennings Top tier

After a no strings attached night both Carter and Madi didn't think they would ever run into each other again. Even though both took up space in each others mind. After a year they lock eyes in a board room feelings come rushing back.
Madi 32 yr old single mom not sure if she is ready to over her heart and trust. She doesn't just have herself to think of but her beautiful daughter as well.
Carter 25 yr old Pitcher. He has no doubt he has what it takes to not only earn Madi's trust but her heart as well. He just needs to prove it and not strike out.
The chemistry between these two is fire. Carter's mouth......swoon. Madi is the type of character you want in your life.
One of my favorite things about this author is how she writes her characters and develops them. Bringing in real life scenarios with a fictional twist. Every male character is perfection. A true why choose situation. But Carter might be top right now. Her FMCs you can picture being your bff or you can see something of yourself in them.
I highly recommend this. I can't get enough of these characters.
Profile Image for Amanda.
425 reviews11 followers
May 8, 2025
✨Strike Three by Haylee Trew✨

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️


Carter and Madelyn (Madi) meet at a bar and have a one night stand. Ironically, these two meet years later and keep making plans with one another.

Carter has just signed a new contract with the very team that Madi works for. You know where this is headed right?

Madi is pregnant but not by Carter, by her ex. Now he isn’t in the picture because he didn’t want children so I never thought he would show up, oh boy was I wrong. This ex is controlling, rude, and possessive over Madi and her daughter when he really shouldn’t be.

Carter is our alpha cinnamon roll hero. Not only does he drive Madi to the hospital when she goes into labor but checks in on her. He is very persuasive.

One thing leads to another and they end up in bed, again. And again.

I will say the spice was a great incorporation into the story because it not only does it progress the story it shows that Carter is utterly smitten with Madi even though she is not confident in her mom era.

Overall an easy read, little to no conflict, and HEA. The conflict that does arise is squashed pretty quickly or talked about by the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sara J [saras kindle era].
439 reviews
April 23, 2025
I didn't think Hayden and Jess could be beat in this series, but man do Mads and Carter (& Bailey!) give them a run for their money for my top spot! I couldn't get enough of them!

Carter isn't necessarily a "playboy", but he is someone who doesn't want to settle down and he is sure he doesn't want kids anytime soon, or ever really. Enter Mads, a one night stand from years ago who now works for the team, and she is 8 months pregnant. Their chemistry is still fire, and they are insanely attracted to each other still...THEN she becomes his agent too?! Forced (well Carter forces it haha) into each other's orbit and they have an undeniable pull to each other! Minds change pretty quick ;)

Being a mama, this one pulled all my heartstrings! I teared up so many times with not only how much Mads loved her daughter, but how Carter fell in love with both of them and stepped up for them! His heart is just so good, and how he loves them is unmatched! Their story is beautiful, and I love them together so much! Plus, PHEW! Their spice is spicyyyy! Carter and that mouth,,,SIR!

1000% recommend adding this one to your TBR!!!
Profile Image for Ashtyn.
212 reviews18 followers
May 5, 2025
*arc review*
4.5/⭐️
3/🌶️

Anytime Haylee writes a new baseball story I know imma love it, and again I was proven right.

Carter and Madi really started off their story with a bang. And nearly two years later they meet again. And sure Carter was obsessed from the start but what I loved is that this was respectful of Madi and her wants and needs.
I mean suuuure becoming her client probably wasn’t the most ethical way of getting her number but he also had friends cheering him on and he drop her to the hospital. So that counts for something.

Once they were friends and the gave into their wants and needs they were hot and spicy for awhile. But naturally there is always a crappy ex who didn’t win who has to pull all the strings. and this part of book crushed me. But how the progression of saddens and hurt was handled, was so adult and loved it considering Carter is only 25. But I also wanted to slap Madi for being dumb but I’m glad she had the friends she did.

This series just gets better and better with every book and I’m so glad I’ve got experience them as they come out.
Profile Image for Jess Pierce.
269 reviews3 followers
May 10, 2025
Strike Three by Haylee Trew is book 3 of the major league series and is a delightful, fun read that won’t let you put it down.

Carter Jennings and Madelyn Bishop have one night with no strings, but what happens when they are unexpectedly brought back together?

Carter is a MLB pitcher that has no plans to end his single life, and Madelyn has recently started working as an accountant for his team. Carter and Madelyn’s story is entertaining and will hook you in from page one. Their storyline is full of fun, sweet moments as well as some intense moments you won’t see coming.

The world the characters live in is wholesome and full of family. From the small town, close family backgrounds to the found family both characters have around them, the side characters shine in their love and loyalty for the MCs. The author brings the best of sport, small town, and second chance romances together and lets them shine.

If you’re looking for a weekend read that is a home run in every way, this is a great one to curl up with.
Profile Image for …Welcome to My World &#x1f30e...
244 reviews4 followers
April 22, 2025
Very cute book! I always enjoy single parent romances. This story did not disappoint, from the first beginning I was hooked on Carter and Maddy. Maddy is a new mom and Carter is a handsome young base baller. He immediately was drawn to Maddy after they shared a night together. A little while later they bump unexpectedly into each other again. Carter immediately knows that he wants a chance with her. Maddy resists for a while due to being a new mom and protecting her little munchkin as well as her heart. I really enjoyed seeing Carter fall in love with Maddy and vice versa. I loved seeing him love her insecurities, and show her worth. Carter was just the perfect gentleman and it was so cute to see. There were times that Maddy got on my nerves. Her indecision was a little too much at times but overall this story was so cute and a great read!

I received an advanced reader copy for free and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Profile Image for madi.
81 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2025
This is a new release by Haylee Trew, this was a good easy read. I felt like I could easily read 100 pages at a time with this book. The words flowed really well and it was a good story line. While some parts made me cringe just a little, it made up for later. You get a HEA and get to read about the sweetest main characters. Let’s get into it:
Madelyn and Carter have a one night stand in the beginning and then go their separate ways, after a while Madelyn gets a job offer somewhere else and it just so happens to be being an accountant with the team Carter plays for. Well Madi is 8 months pregnant at the time by an ex that left as soon as she found out she was pregnant. Carter doesn’t care and just wants to be in their lives and Madi just doesn’t know what to do yet, let Carter in their lives or steer on the cautious side to protect her and her daughters hearts…..
Please check this book out it’s definitely worth it! @Love Notes PR thank you for the opportunity to read this arc!
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