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Home Safe
Opposites may attract, but their differences could turn the relationship into a strikeout instead of a home run.
Danae Collins’ stable, quiet life as an elementary school librarian is upended when she becomes the guardian for one of her students in foster care. She carefully plans for every contingency on the road to permanent adoption—every contingency except crossing paths with a famous baseball player.
Griffin West is the star shortstop and “darling” of the Kansas City Crowns baseball team. Everything is on the line as he returns to the major leagues after a season-ending injury. When Danae brings her new son to Griffin’s baseball camp, the tug he feels toward her is a curveball he never saw coming.
On paper, their lives seem incompatible. But as they spend time together, the safety they find in each other only deepens. Will real obstacles ultimately break or bond them forever?
Home Safe is an opposites attract, single guardian baseball romance for fans of meaningful contemporary romance. This is perfect for readers who want a closed-door sports romance with plenty of swoon but no spice.
See Author’s Note for content considerations.
Danae Collins’ stable, quiet life as an elementary school librarian is upended when she becomes the guardian for one of her students in foster care. She carefully plans for every contingency on the road to permanent adoption—every contingency except crossing paths with a famous baseball player.
Griffin West is the star shortstop and “darling” of the Kansas City Crowns baseball team. Everything is on the line as he returns to the major leagues after a season-ending injury. When Danae brings her new son to Griffin’s baseball camp, the tug he feels toward her is a curveball he never saw coming.
On paper, their lives seem incompatible. But as they spend time together, the safety they find in each other only deepens. Will real obstacles ultimately break or bond them forever?
Home Safe is an opposites attract, single guardian baseball romance for fans of meaningful contemporary romance. This is perfect for readers who want a closed-door sports romance with plenty of swoon but no spice.
See Author’s Note for content considerations.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2025
61 people are currently reading
557 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
July 25, 2025
My Quick Takes:
- 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 kisses only
- Content 🤔 childhood trauma, foster care/adoption, single parent, toxic family relationship
Tracy Baack hits the ball out of the park (pun intended) with this sweet baseball romance!! She continues time and time again to write real and relatable characters.
Second guessing if you're doing everything right or wrong in parenting was very relatable for me, even if I can't relate on the adoption/ single parenting front. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Danae and Griffin, but even more so Jason and Sam. I loved the character dynamics, especially of the side characters, they really brought another level to the plot.
Not a fan of baseball? Neither is the female main character, allowing readers with any stance on baseball to enjoy the read. I'm personally not a big baseball fan myself but that didn't keep me from loving the plot, storylines, and characters!
- 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 kisses only
- Content 🤔 childhood trauma, foster care/adoption, single parent, toxic family relationship
Tracy Baack hits the ball out of the park (pun intended) with this sweet baseball romance!! She continues time and time again to write real and relatable characters.
Second guessing if you're doing everything right or wrong in parenting was very relatable for me, even if I can't relate on the adoption/ single parenting front. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Danae and Griffin, but even more so Jason and Sam. I loved the character dynamics, especially of the side characters, they really brought another level to the plot.
Not a fan of baseball? Neither is the female main character, allowing readers with any stance on baseball to enjoy the read. I'm personally not a big baseball fan myself but that didn't keep me from loving the plot, storylines, and characters!
June 14, 2025
EEEEEEK! This was such a good read! I loved how real the characters were and how difficult topics were handled so gently. Danae and Griffin were perfect and I loved watching their romance blossom to the end. They were such good people that made me root for them the whole time! I cannot wait for release day. I couldn’t put this book down!
July 4, 2025
Thanks to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.
⚾️ Blurb ⚾️
“Opposites may attract, but their differences could turn the relationship into a strikeout instead of a home run.
Danae Collins’ stable, quiet life as an elementary school librarian is upended when she becomes the guardian for one of her students in foster care. She carefully plans for every contingency on the road to permanent adoption—every contingency except crossing paths with a famous baseball player.
Griffin West is the star shortstop and “darling” of the Kansas City Crowns baseball team. Everything is on the line as he returns to the major leagues after a season-ending injury. When Danae brings her new son to Griffin’s baseball camp, the tug he feels toward her is a curveball he never saw coming.
On paper, their lives seem incompatible. But as they spend time together, the safety they find in each other only deepens. Will real obstacles ultimately break or bond them forever?”
📚 My Thoughts 📚
The first word that comes to mind to describe this book is “sweet.” Some might see this closed-door romance as sickeningly sweet—and they might be right. But if the story makes me smile and giggle like a silly schoolgirl the entire time I picked up my iPad to read it, then I want more sickeningly sweet romances please. 🙏🏼
Danae and Griffin couldn’t be more different from one another yet they were so freaking cute together! I related to Danae a lot since she likes to live a quiet, predicable life with her books. Griffin was such a sweet, understanding, and caring guy, who sees people not as strangers but as friends he hasn’t gotten to know yet. And although I was frustrated at times with Danae (maybe because I’m so much like her 😂), both characters grew as individuals and as a couple, which was so nice to read. Add Jason to the picture and, holy cow, they’re one cute family. ❤️
The plot was predictable, but most romances are. The journey to the happily ever after isn’t always so predictable, however. Were there curveballs that kept me on my toes? No, not really. But it was fun, nonetheless, especially the whole baseball theme. I wasn’t a fan of baseball until a few years ago when the Dodgers made it to the World Series and won. My little brother and I were hitting baseballs into our neighbor's yard for a good while during that time. 😂 But gosh, that is a favorite memory of mine. ☺️❤️ I wish I could turn back the time.
Anyway, the highs and lows of this story made the ending so worth it. It’s such a cute book and I highly recommend it if you are into closed-door sports romances, opposites attract, and no cussing stories. I assure you, you won’t regret it. 💞
❗️ Content Warnings ❗️
Trauma, mention of a death due to drug overdose, & mention of a parent going to prison
⚾️ Blurb ⚾️
“Opposites may attract, but their differences could turn the relationship into a strikeout instead of a home run.
Danae Collins’ stable, quiet life as an elementary school librarian is upended when she becomes the guardian for one of her students in foster care. She carefully plans for every contingency on the road to permanent adoption—every contingency except crossing paths with a famous baseball player.
Griffin West is the star shortstop and “darling” of the Kansas City Crowns baseball team. Everything is on the line as he returns to the major leagues after a season-ending injury. When Danae brings her new son to Griffin’s baseball camp, the tug he feels toward her is a curveball he never saw coming.
On paper, their lives seem incompatible. But as they spend time together, the safety they find in each other only deepens. Will real obstacles ultimately break or bond them forever?”
📚 My Thoughts 📚
The first word that comes to mind to describe this book is “sweet.” Some might see this closed-door romance as sickeningly sweet—and they might be right. But if the story makes me smile and giggle like a silly schoolgirl the entire time I picked up my iPad to read it, then I want more sickeningly sweet romances please. 🙏🏼
Danae and Griffin couldn’t be more different from one another yet they were so freaking cute together! I related to Danae a lot since she likes to live a quiet, predicable life with her books. Griffin was such a sweet, understanding, and caring guy, who sees people not as strangers but as friends he hasn’t gotten to know yet. And although I was frustrated at times with Danae (maybe because I’m so much like her 😂), both characters grew as individuals and as a couple, which was so nice to read. Add Jason to the picture and, holy cow, they’re one cute family. ❤️
The plot was predictable, but most romances are. The journey to the happily ever after isn’t always so predictable, however. Were there curveballs that kept me on my toes? No, not really. But it was fun, nonetheless, especially the whole baseball theme. I wasn’t a fan of baseball until a few years ago when the Dodgers made it to the World Series and won. My little brother and I were hitting baseballs into our neighbor's yard for a good while during that time. 😂 But gosh, that is a favorite memory of mine. ☺️❤️ I wish I could turn back the time.
Anyway, the highs and lows of this story made the ending so worth it. It’s such a cute book and I highly recommend it if you are into closed-door sports romances, opposites attract, and no cussing stories. I assure you, you won’t regret it. 💞
❗️ Content Warnings ❗️
Trauma, mention of a death due to drug overdose, & mention of a parent going to prison
June 14, 2025
Guys, when I tell you I would read anything she writes? Just know I mean it. I have loved her books since day one and I will forever read her books.
This one did not disappoint. From stating "I hate baseball" to writing a book about it and killing it? Oh yes, yes she did. Danae and Griffin and also Jason have had my heart since page one. This book had a little bit of everything but an great mixture of it. From being strangers to becoming a parent, to getting to know to many more things. Hey can we talk about Samantha? I want her to be my best friend. I love her ♡
100% recommended for sure !!!
This one did not disappoint. From stating "I hate baseball" to writing a book about it and killing it? Oh yes, yes she did. Danae and Griffin and also Jason have had my heart since page one. This book had a little bit of everything but an great mixture of it. From being strangers to becoming a parent, to getting to know to many more things. Hey can we talk about Samantha? I want her to be my best friend. I love her ♡
100% recommended for sure !!!
June 15, 2025
I’ve never read a baseball romance before, and since baseball is my favorite sport, I was immediately intrigued by this one. The story centers around a whirlwind, opposites attract romance that’s layered with deeper themes, particularly issues related to foster care, adoption, and a child navigating emotional regulation. I thought the book did a great job balancing these heavier elements with moments of lightness, fun, and romance.
Griffin was a standout character for me. He had a huge heart, and I really appreciated how caring and selfless he was. He was consistently putting Danae and her son Jason’s needs first. Danae, while not my favorite heroine, was still likable overall. Her devotion to Jason, her soon to be adopted son, was one of her strongest and most endearing qualities.
My one main critique is related to the portrayal of baseball. As a longtime fan of the sport, I found it frustrating that Danae seemed so dismissive of it—repeatedly emphasizing her dislike for baseball throughout the story. While I can appreciate a character who is upfront and honest, her attitude came off as somewhat disrespectful at times, especially considering Griffin’s deep commitment to his career. He constantly supported her, yet she didn’t seem to extend the same grace when it came to understanding his passion and profession. At points, she felt a bit emotional and self-centered, which made it harder for me to fully root for her.
That said, while I would have preferred a slightly different ending, the story still delivered a satisfying happily ever after. I can’t say more without giving spoilers. I originally picked up this book for the baseball angle, and ironically, that was the one element I felt was underappreciated by the heroine. Still, despite that, I did enjoy the story overall and found the mix of heart, romance, and real life challenges compelling.
Griffin was a standout character for me. He had a huge heart, and I really appreciated how caring and selfless he was. He was consistently putting Danae and her son Jason’s needs first. Danae, while not my favorite heroine, was still likable overall. Her devotion to Jason, her soon to be adopted son, was one of her strongest and most endearing qualities.
My one main critique is related to the portrayal of baseball. As a longtime fan of the sport, I found it frustrating that Danae seemed so dismissive of it—repeatedly emphasizing her dislike for baseball throughout the story. While I can appreciate a character who is upfront and honest, her attitude came off as somewhat disrespectful at times, especially considering Griffin’s deep commitment to his career. He constantly supported her, yet she didn’t seem to extend the same grace when it came to understanding his passion and profession. At points, she felt a bit emotional and self-centered, which made it harder for me to fully root for her.
That said, while I would have preferred a slightly different ending, the story still delivered a satisfying happily ever after. I can’t say more without giving spoilers. I originally picked up this book for the baseball angle, and ironically, that was the one element I felt was underappreciated by the heroine. Still, despite that, I did enjoy the story overall and found the mix of heart, romance, and real life challenges compelling.
June 16, 2025
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review
Tracy Baack did it again - she once again wrote a Romance I couldn’t help but devour within an absurdly short amount of hours
We meet Danae, who is a school librarian, new foster mom and absolutely not a baseball fan. But then she runs into Griffin, who is perfect - except for him being a professional baseball player. And if you think this might be a slight problem don’t even know the half of it…
I loved the two main characters. Danae was so mature, caring, smart and an overthinker in all the good and bad ways. Griffin is so loving, determined and has the softest heart you can imagine.
The way the two of them communicate and try to work through things was so inspiring.
There were two main themes:
How vastly different the supposedly defining interests of our two mcs are and fostering/adopting a kid that had gone through a lot of challenging things.
Both themes are explored throughly, discussed, worked theough, sometimes joked about. I as a reader feel like I really learned a few things and I appreciate that ♥️
If you like a romance with not a ton of fabricated drama, but between two adults who are different and have struggles in life, but try to work through it together, this is it!
Will from now on always recommend this 😍
PS: I am truly not a baseball fan. But the author managed to write about it in a way that I understood what was happening and didn’t feel bored, even when she described a baseball game ⚾️
Tracy Baack did it again - she once again wrote a Romance I couldn’t help but devour within an absurdly short amount of hours
We meet Danae, who is a school librarian, new foster mom and absolutely not a baseball fan. But then she runs into Griffin, who is perfect - except for him being a professional baseball player. And if you think this might be a slight problem don’t even know the half of it…
I loved the two main characters. Danae was so mature, caring, smart and an overthinker in all the good and bad ways. Griffin is so loving, determined and has the softest heart you can imagine.
The way the two of them communicate and try to work through things was so inspiring.
There were two main themes:
How vastly different the supposedly defining interests of our two mcs are and fostering/adopting a kid that had gone through a lot of challenging things.
Both themes are explored throughly, discussed, worked theough, sometimes joked about. I as a reader feel like I really learned a few things and I appreciate that ♥️
If you like a romance with not a ton of fabricated drama, but between two adults who are different and have struggles in life, but try to work through it together, this is it!
Will from now on always recommend this 😍
PS: I am truly not a baseball fan. But the author managed to write about it in a way that I understood what was happening and didn’t feel bored, even when she described a baseball game ⚾️
June 19, 2025
Okay! Let’s get into it. I loved Danae, Jason and Griffin. They were all such amazing characters! (Including side characters!!!) Danae was the sweetest and she definitely made me chuckle a few times. Jason..no words I just loved him haha! 😌And Griffin sweet, caring and swoony🤣❤️. I was a tad hesitant at first when they decided to skip friendship and go straight in, but I’m happy to announce it played out well for them. ;) Their communication was pretty great and the romance was sweet. I’ll admit it was a tad kissy, but it never got to the point where I had to cover my eyes.😂 Tracy really pitched ;) this story well and hit all the right notes! Overall, great book, awesome characters, and the sweetest ending!
(I received an ARC, all opinions are my own<3)
(I received an ARC, all opinions are my own<3)
June 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Griffin West & Danae Collins
- Dual POV
- Baseball player MMC
- Elementary school librarian FMC
- Single foster mom going through adoption
- Opposites attract
- Strangers to lovers
✨ A few of my favorite things:
- Griffin’s patience with Danae’s thought factories
- Baseball teammates/best friends
- “Maximum” (*squeals and kicks feet*) 🫠🤭😍
- The village that rallies around Danae and Jason
- How Danae describes love to Jason 🥹😭
- The way Danae gives 110% to supporting Griffin despite loathing baseball 😂👏🏻 the color coded schedule 😭 are you kidding me?! Stop it.
- The terms of endearment 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely could not put this book down. I was very very intrigued by both MCs especially when reading they both greatly dislike *cough* hate *cough* each other’s greatest passions. I really appreciated the way Tracy wrote these characters. They stayed true to who they were; they tried to enjoy each other’s passions; but ultimately did not come to LOVE reading or baseball. They still tried for one another and did the things to support each other. I really value that because in life just because you absolutely love something it doesn’t mean your spouse will automatically take to enjoying it too. Often times, our interests don’t drastically change but I absolutely love that they still sacrificed for one another, doing something they really didn’t like to show each other how much they loved one another.
Another aspect of the book I really appreciated was there was plenty of hard in the book (it’s not a depressing read, the hard isn’t like that). They have so many landmines they have to navigate around (crazy work schedules, media attention, adoption, childhood trauma, parenting a child with trauma, injuries, anxiety) and both Griffin and Danae give each other grace. They get short, close down, and make mistakes. But they still come to the conclusion to give one another grace and that sacrifices are worth it to be together. I think we need more of that today. We are promised trials and tribulations and people need to not throw in the towel the second something gets hard. I absolutely loved that Tracy had her characters constantly communicating, apologizing (when needed), and working towards resolutions together. Griffin and Danae truly embodied what it looks like to work as a team and to put each others needs (and Danae’s child’s needs) first.
Lastly, the village that whole heartedly shows up for the MCs and the child is truly inspiring. It encourages me to be a good friend and to keep loving on people well. Because we are made to be in community. God never intended for us to do life alone.
Everyone please go love on Tracy and congratulate her on all her hard work 💕 blessed to get to know you Tracy and read your work 💕👏🏻
This is a clean closed door romcom with nondescript making out that focuses on the emotions of the MCs or is brief. The author has content warnings at the beginning of the book.
**Thank you so much to Tracy for letting me read this ARC. I received a complimentary copy. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
Songs:
”feels like home” by Drew Holcomb & Ellie Holcomb
“More like Jesus” by Micah Fletcher
“Big girls don’t cry” by Fergie
“The rest” by Avery Anna *
“Bad for me” by Teddy Swims & Meghan Trainer
“Simply the best” by Billianne
“Never met at all” by Aimee Carty
“It’s not your fault” by Max McNown
“Love me back” by Max McNown
“Catch my breath” by Alex Warren *
Griffin West & Danae Collins
- Dual POV
- Baseball player MMC
- Elementary school librarian FMC
- Single foster mom going through adoption
- Opposites attract
- Strangers to lovers
✨ A few of my favorite things:
- Griffin’s patience with Danae’s thought factories
- Baseball teammates/best friends
- “Maximum” (*squeals and kicks feet*) 🫠🤭😍
- The village that rallies around Danae and Jason
- How Danae describes love to Jason 🥹😭
- The way Danae gives 110% to supporting Griffin despite loathing baseball 😂👏🏻 the color coded schedule 😭 are you kidding me?! Stop it.
- The terms of endearment 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely could not put this book down. I was very very intrigued by both MCs especially when reading they both greatly dislike *cough* hate *cough* each other’s greatest passions. I really appreciated the way Tracy wrote these characters. They stayed true to who they were; they tried to enjoy each other’s passions; but ultimately did not come to LOVE reading or baseball. They still tried for one another and did the things to support each other. I really value that because in life just because you absolutely love something it doesn’t mean your spouse will automatically take to enjoying it too. Often times, our interests don’t drastically change but I absolutely love that they still sacrificed for one another, doing something they really didn’t like to show each other how much they loved one another.
Another aspect of the book I really appreciated was there was plenty of hard in the book (it’s not a depressing read, the hard isn’t like that). They have so many landmines they have to navigate around (crazy work schedules, media attention, adoption, childhood trauma, parenting a child with trauma, injuries, anxiety) and both Griffin and Danae give each other grace. They get short, close down, and make mistakes. But they still come to the conclusion to give one another grace and that sacrifices are worth it to be together. I think we need more of that today. We are promised trials and tribulations and people need to not throw in the towel the second something gets hard. I absolutely loved that Tracy had her characters constantly communicating, apologizing (when needed), and working towards resolutions together. Griffin and Danae truly embodied what it looks like to work as a team and to put each others needs (and Danae’s child’s needs) first.
Lastly, the village that whole heartedly shows up for the MCs and the child is truly inspiring. It encourages me to be a good friend and to keep loving on people well. Because we are made to be in community. God never intended for us to do life alone.
Everyone please go love on Tracy and congratulate her on all her hard work 💕 blessed to get to know you Tracy and read your work 💕👏🏻
This is a clean closed door romcom with nondescript making out that focuses on the emotions of the MCs or is brief. The author has content warnings at the beginning of the book.
**Thank you so much to Tracy for letting me read this ARC. I received a complimentary copy. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
Songs:
”feels like home” by Drew Holcomb & Ellie Holcomb
“More like Jesus” by Micah Fletcher
“Big girls don’t cry” by Fergie
“The rest” by Avery Anna *
“Bad for me” by Teddy Swims & Meghan Trainer
“Simply the best” by Billianne
“Never met at all” by Aimee Carty
“It’s not your fault” by Max McNown
“Love me back” by Max McNown
“Catch my breath” by Alex Warren *
June 16, 2025
Overall Rating: 5⭐️
Spice Rating: Just Kisses!
Language Rating: None
Reader Age: 16+
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Content Considerations: Addiction, neglect, adoption, mental health struggles
My favourite Tracy Baack book to date!! This book was so heartwarming and had me absolutely melting. The emotions are just so raw in this book and had me in my feels the whole time. I couldn’t help but binge this book in under 48hrs and struggled so hard to put it down.
If you haven’t read any of Tracy Baack’s books yet, I highly recommend because they just keep getting better and better.
Spice Rating: Just Kisses!
Language Rating: None
Reader Age: 16+
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Content Considerations: Addiction, neglect, adoption, mental health struggles
My favourite Tracy Baack book to date!! This book was so heartwarming and had me absolutely melting. The emotions are just so raw in this book and had me in my feels the whole time. I couldn’t help but binge this book in under 48hrs and struggled so hard to put it down.
If you haven’t read any of Tracy Baack’s books yet, I highly recommend because they just keep getting better and better.
June 15, 2025
Tracy did a great job writing Danae and Griffin’s story!
Moments I loved:
Griffin trying to find book clubs/bookish ways to support his 💗
Danae and Sam’s friendship!
Dyslexia representation.
Foster care situation and therapy.
Food 🥘 ( including one of my favorites, Lindt chocolates!)
Things I didn’t love:
FMC had Mean 😢 parents, which may be triggering for people who have experienced this. (I’m sorry, 😢 sending virtual hugs) 🤗
NO THIRD act breakup!’
Best quotes:
“You with me?” I quietly ask.She mirrors my position, bringing her hand up to my jaw.“One hundred percent, forever.”
“Danae is different. She’s empathetic and caring but not just in words. She’s living it out in huge, significant ways. Not to mention the spark of passion inside her that flares when she talks about books or her role as a librarian.”
“I nudge his chin so that he’ll look at me. “I do love you.
(To Jason, the sweet boy who survives foster care) Do you remember what I told you about what it means that I love you? That I choose you, that I’m with you one hundred percent, forever. You’re mine no matter what. No matter what you do, I’m not going to stop loving you, okay? I’m not leaving you, ever. You’re not leaving me, ever. You’re still stuck with me.”
Moments I loved:
Griffin trying to find book clubs/bookish ways to support his 💗
Danae and Sam’s friendship!
Dyslexia representation.
Foster care situation and therapy.
Food 🥘 ( including one of my favorites, Lindt chocolates!)
Things I didn’t love:
FMC had Mean 😢 parents, which may be triggering for people who have experienced this. (I’m sorry, 😢 sending virtual hugs) 🤗
NO THIRD act breakup!’
Best quotes:
“You with me?” I quietly ask.She mirrors my position, bringing her hand up to my jaw.“One hundred percent, forever.”
“Danae is different. She’s empathetic and caring but not just in words. She’s living it out in huge, significant ways. Not to mention the spark of passion inside her that flares when she talks about books or her role as a librarian.”
“I nudge his chin so that he’ll look at me. “I do love you.
(To Jason, the sweet boy who survives foster care) Do you remember what I told you about what it means that I love you? That I choose you, that I’m with you one hundred percent, forever. You’re mine no matter what. No matter what you do, I’m not going to stop loving you, okay? I’m not leaving you, ever. You’re not leaving me, ever. You’re still stuck with me.”
June 15, 2025
I loved this book. I appreciate how Tracy incorporates hard things (foster care, childhood trauma, anxiety, etc.) into her books. Her writing is raw and real and pulls on your heart strings. I love the characters she creates. I want to be real life friends with Sam. I want to have Kara and Danae as coworkers. I want to talk baseball with Jason and Griffin. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of reading this as an ARC.
June 19, 2025
I am 100% in love this book!! I did not want to put it down!!
I loved Danae and Griffin! Opposites attract and proof that what you truly need sometimes is someone who sees who you are at your core. Danae hates baseball which is funny since Griffin is a MLB player. Griffin doesn’t enjoy reading which is funny since Danae is an elementary school librarian. They find common ground with Danae adopting her son from foster care.
Favorite Quotes:
“Fine, fine, but answer this one question,” Luke says. “I’m not saying you’re in love or getting married tomorrow, but on a scale of one to ten, how much do you like her today?”
I don’t even hesitate. “Ten.”
“Will do,” Sandra replies. Her tone changes as she asks, “The Wizard of Defense huh? I thought you didn’t like baseball?”
“Yeah, I don’t,” I say.
Sandra is quiet for a beat before she prods, “Buuut?”
“But I do like Griffin. Never saw that coming,” I say.
Even though I still can’t classify myself as a baseball fan, I’m a Griffin West fan, one hundred percent.
I loved Danae and Griffin! Opposites attract and proof that what you truly need sometimes is someone who sees who you are at your core. Danae hates baseball which is funny since Griffin is a MLB player. Griffin doesn’t enjoy reading which is funny since Danae is an elementary school librarian. They find common ground with Danae adopting her son from foster care.
Favorite Quotes:
“Fine, fine, but answer this one question,” Luke says. “I’m not saying you’re in love or getting married tomorrow, but on a scale of one to ten, how much do you like her today?”
I don’t even hesitate. “Ten.”
“Will do,” Sandra replies. Her tone changes as she asks, “The Wizard of Defense huh? I thought you didn’t like baseball?”
“Yeah, I don’t,” I say.
Sandra is quiet for a beat before she prods, “Buuut?”
“But I do like Griffin. Never saw that coming,” I say.
Even though I still can’t classify myself as a baseball fan, I’m a Griffin West fan, one hundred percent.
June 19, 2025
There were a few tears. Okay, more than a few. There were heart stopping movements. And there were some heart-healing moments too.
I love children in books, love them. And twice now I’m gotten to read books with exceptional children they have grown (as have their adults) but the growth the children experience is phenomenal, and is portrayed in such a manner that I am left feeling like I have new tools in my parenting hand bag. New phrases to use, new ways to relate and see the world through the eyes of a child. And new ways to help my children cope.
Tracy did an amazing job of writing Danae as an amazing adoptive/foster mom. He love for Jason just rose right off the page! And then to have Griff come along, and have a background of having been a foster/adoptive sibling… perfection.
Reading this book will pull at your heart strings, but it will also mend them, maybe even make them stronger!
Tracy, and Krystal, thank you so much for the gifted copy, and the chance to read and hype this story up!
I love children in books, love them. And twice now I’m gotten to read books with exceptional children they have grown (as have their adults) but the growth the children experience is phenomenal, and is portrayed in such a manner that I am left feeling like I have new tools in my parenting hand bag. New phrases to use, new ways to relate and see the world through the eyes of a child. And new ways to help my children cope.
Tracy did an amazing job of writing Danae as an amazing adoptive/foster mom. He love for Jason just rose right off the page! And then to have Griff come along, and have a background of having been a foster/adoptive sibling… perfection.
Reading this book will pull at your heart strings, but it will also mend them, maybe even make them stronger!
Tracy, and Krystal, thank you so much for the gifted copy, and the chance to read and hype this story up!
June 18, 2025
Wow, what a book! Tracy Baack absolutely knocked it out of the park with this appropriately named story--- with a romance between a professional baseball player and the school librarian who hates baseball. Despite their vastly different passions, Griffin and Denae had such a great chemistry that I absolutely couldn't get enough of. But their story also went so much deeper than that- tackling difficult subjects like foster care, adoption and trauma in such a beautiful and real way. It was at times messy, but always heartfelt. This was a story that definitely had me reaching for the tissues on several occasions and feeling so deeply for these characters--- not just Griffin and Denae, but also Jason as well--- but one that also had a beautiful sense of finding your safe place and your home. Simply put, I just loved these three and everything about their story. If you love a tender sports romance and/or a hard fought happily ever after, you truly won't want to miss this beautiful story. I've read a few other books by Tracy and enjoyed them all, but this is definitely a favorite and one I won't soon be forgetting.
Home Safe is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Home Safe is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
June 17, 2025
This was such a beautiful book! A warm hug and so much more! I absolutely loved the way it was written and the characters!! They were so dynamic! I cried a few times some from joy some for pure emotions. I laughed a few times and I swooned a couple times! Griffin is such a beautiful green flag and the best support for Danae! I wish I could read this again for the first time!
I received an eARC and this is my honest review
I received an eARC and this is my honest review
August 1, 2025
Oh Traacy what have you done. I swear my heart never beat so fast reading a romance book. This was PERFECT.
This was the best book to end June with and the communication ?!?!? Literally top tier. AND the WRITING. SO SO GOOD. This story was more than the romance , it was about hope, healing and life’s expected blessings. I loved how we saw the FMC deal with anxiety but also the MMC with his identity. I was quite emotional drained (in a postive way) reading this book and just full of adoration and admiration for such a strong and caring guy!! Gosh Griffen is it people! What you single ladies need in a man hahha . I loved the direct communication the MC’s had. The foster aspect was so neat and unique. I just really really loved this book!! Thank you for sharing this story!!
This was the best book to end June with and the communication ?!?!? Literally top tier. AND the WRITING. SO SO GOOD. This story was more than the romance , it was about hope, healing and life’s expected blessings. I loved how we saw the FMC deal with anxiety but also the MMC with his identity. I was quite emotional drained (in a postive way) reading this book and just full of adoration and admiration for such a strong and caring guy!! Gosh Griffen is it people! What you single ladies need in a man hahha . I loved the direct communication the MC’s had. The foster aspect was so neat and unique. I just really really loved this book!! Thank you for sharing this story!!
June 18, 2025
This is the 3rd time I’ve been apart of Tracy’s ARC team and the 3rd time I’ve ADORED the books.
Tracy writes closed door romances very well and this book has shown she can tackle the harder topics, such as the foster system, extremely well.
Danae and Griffen were well thought out characters with well rounded back stories.
I enjoyed the pacing of the book and the love story felt real.
The only thing I think Tracy missed was Griffin’s agent, it felt like she was setting it up for him to be a bad guy and nothing happened with it. I would have loved to have seen that storyline finished.
Over all I hope to continue to be apart of Tracy’s ARC teams and this was a 5 ⭐️ read for me
Tracy writes closed door romances very well and this book has shown she can tackle the harder topics, such as the foster system, extremely well.
Danae and Griffen were well thought out characters with well rounded back stories.
I enjoyed the pacing of the book and the love story felt real.
The only thing I think Tracy missed was Griffin’s agent, it felt like she was setting it up for him to be a bad guy and nothing happened with it. I would have loved to have seen that storyline finished.
Over all I hope to continue to be apart of Tracy’s ARC teams and this was a 5 ⭐️ read for me
June 30, 2025
My summary of this book is that it’s a beautiful, heartfelt contemporary romance.
I loved how Griffin and Danae each had issues personally that could impact their relationship but that they worked through them together. The amount of time we had of them on page together was great and I loved the way they communicated. The things they each grew in were beautiful to see. My heart broke for sweet little Jason and what he was going through.
The author did a lot of research into various aspects of the book and it showed by how real it felt. There’s an epilogue (yay!) and a bonus epilogue, which were fantastic, but I still want more!!
Kisses only, no swearing
I loved how Griffin and Danae each had issues personally that could impact their relationship but that they worked through them together. The amount of time we had of them on page together was great and I loved the way they communicated. The things they each grew in were beautiful to see. My heart broke for sweet little Jason and what he was going through.
The author did a lot of research into various aspects of the book and it showed by how real it felt. There’s an epilogue (yay!) and a bonus epilogue, which were fantastic, but I still want more!!
Kisses only, no swearing
July 1, 2025
GENRE
-sports romance
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️: brief/vague mentions of parental overdose, neglect, and incarceration; emotional episodes stemming from childhood trauma; strained parental relationship
I loved this story! Though it is a romance, it is also very much a LOVE story—love between a foster parent/future adoptive parent and child; self-love; and romantic love. Getting an inside view into the effects of childhood trauma on the brain and how it affects communication was beautifully heartbreaking.
I think my very favorite thing about it was the fantastic communication between Danae and Griffin. There were so many moments where they were just honest with each other and had the hard conversations that needed to be had. CHEERS TO HEALTHY, OPEN COMMUNICATION!
Also, Jason. We absolutely have to mention Jason. I ADORE HIM. I want to hug him and love him. That sweet boy is so lucky to have the adoptive and found family that he does after all the trauma of his young life.
Oh, also, I need to give a moment to the text messages between Danae and Griffin! Those were adorable and such a fun addition to the story.
I absolutely loved it! My only complaint is that I wish the bonus epilogue was part of the epilogue itself. The ending felt a little jarring. I was turning my Kindle pages like wait, is that really the end?!
Regardless, you need to go read it!
Favorite Quotes:
-I certainly understand the comfort of escaping your life circumstances through a novel.
-"Not upset at all. Don't worry—I was surprised you gave it a second thought."
Danae sputters a laugh. "Um, second thoughts are all I give. Second, third, tenth. Too many thoughts about everything all the time."
-"I am not giving you any details. I'll just say, I hope it was the last first kiss of my life. And it would be a last first kiss of epic proportions."
-I want to take it all away—love it all away—but I'm overwhelmed by how not that simple this all is.
-I want to walk into the hard alongside Danae, to be a team.
-"Sneaking me in past the principal, huh?" I tease as I step into the building with Danae. "This is giving forbidden vibes, and I can't say I dislike it."
-How did I get here? So completely gone for a woman I've known less than three months? I'm not sure how it happened, but I'm definitely gone. And I don't want to be found.
-"I don't love you because you add value to my life—even though you do. I love you because of who you are, because of your heart, your tenderness, your concern for others, your passion for books and Jason and teaching. I love you for all the amazing ways you bring light to the world. I am here, and I am not leaving," he says.
-It's a happy, hard, sad, heavy, celebratory day, all wrapped into one. A constant conflict of feelings that we'll face together. Safe together.
-"I'm committed to working through those challenges with you. Committed to protecting our relationship, our safe place together."
-sports romance
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️: brief/vague mentions of parental overdose, neglect, and incarceration; emotional episodes stemming from childhood trauma; strained parental relationship
I loved this story! Though it is a romance, it is also very much a LOVE story—love between a foster parent/future adoptive parent and child; self-love; and romantic love. Getting an inside view into the effects of childhood trauma on the brain and how it affects communication was beautifully heartbreaking.
I think my very favorite thing about it was the fantastic communication between Danae and Griffin. There were so many moments where they were just honest with each other and had the hard conversations that needed to be had. CHEERS TO HEALTHY, OPEN COMMUNICATION!
Also, Jason. We absolutely have to mention Jason. I ADORE HIM. I want to hug him and love him. That sweet boy is so lucky to have the adoptive and found family that he does after all the trauma of his young life.
Oh, also, I need to give a moment to the text messages between Danae and Griffin! Those were adorable and such a fun addition to the story.
I absolutely loved it! My only complaint is that I wish the bonus epilogue was part of the epilogue itself. The ending felt a little jarring. I was turning my Kindle pages like wait, is that really the end?!
Regardless, you need to go read it!
Favorite Quotes:
-I certainly understand the comfort of escaping your life circumstances through a novel.
-"Not upset at all. Don't worry—I was surprised you gave it a second thought."
Danae sputters a laugh. "Um, second thoughts are all I give. Second, third, tenth. Too many thoughts about everything all the time."
-"I am not giving you any details. I'll just say, I hope it was the last first kiss of my life. And it would be a last first kiss of epic proportions."
-I want to take it all away—love it all away—but I'm overwhelmed by how not that simple this all is.
-I want to walk into the hard alongside Danae, to be a team.
-"Sneaking me in past the principal, huh?" I tease as I step into the building with Danae. "This is giving forbidden vibes, and I can't say I dislike it."
-How did I get here? So completely gone for a woman I've known less than three months? I'm not sure how it happened, but I'm definitely gone. And I don't want to be found.
-"I don't love you because you add value to my life—even though you do. I love you because of who you are, because of your heart, your tenderness, your concern for others, your passion for books and Jason and teaching. I love you for all the amazing ways you bring light to the world. I am here, and I am not leaving," he says.
-It's a happy, hard, sad, heavy, celebratory day, all wrapped into one. A constant conflict of feelings that we'll face together. Safe together.
-"I'm committed to working through those challenges with you. Committed to protecting our relationship, our safe place together."
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June 17, 2025
I love baseball. I adore sweet romance. I care deeply for those who need healing from trauma.
So of COURSE I enjoyed Hole Safe by Tracy Baack.
I couldn't relate to Danae aside from insecurities as a mom, but I still really enjoyed her. It was interesting to see Foster Care/adoption represented from the perspective a parent.
Griffin was an absolutely amazing MMC. He was so sweet, caring, genuine, and I loved reading about the MLB and his experience as a pro baseball player.
Overall, this was just a sweet and meaningful read.
So of COURSE I enjoyed Hole Safe by Tracy Baack.
I couldn't relate to Danae aside from insecurities as a mom, but I still really enjoyed her. It was interesting to see Foster Care/adoption represented from the perspective a parent.
Griffin was an absolutely amazing MMC. He was so sweet, caring, genuine, and I loved reading about the MLB and his experience as a pro baseball player.
Overall, this was just a sweet and meaningful read.
June 18, 2025
This was such a charming, emotional, beautiful story.
Danae Collins is a school librarian in the process of adopting one of her students out of foster care. Becoming a single parent to a child with trauma turns out to be the most challenging thing she’s ever done (unsurprisingly). But between her to-do lists and anxiously chipped nail polish, Danae can’t help but fear her love won’t be enough to help her little guy thrive. Until baseball camp.
Danae loathes baseball, so she doesn’t realize the man running the camp is the local sports team hero- and her sons idol. But although Danae loathes the game, she can’t help but be drawn to the man who plays it. And as she gets to know Griffin, she finds herself wanting to slide into the safety of his arms.
What to expect:
-Dual POV
-Closed door, clean romance
-Baseball player x librarian
-Single parent with foster care
-No third act breakup
This book was so dang wholesome. My favorite thing was the wonderful communication between our MCs. It was honestly a great example of the type of honesty and openness everyone should strive for in a relationship.
The topics the book addressed could get heavy at times, but they were all handled so well that I found myself tearing up at the care. But definitely check your TWs before diving in.
The only reason this book doesn’t get a 5 stars for me is for some of the pacing and flow in the story. At times the writing felt a little clinical? I don’t know how else I’d describe it. It wasn’t bad, but it made it harder to get lost in the story. Maybe the best way to describe it was that the characters all conversed with each other in a way that didn’t feel real. At least not any way I’ve ever talked with people. Anyways.
I can’t wait to read more from this author. And I can’t thank her enough for the ARC of her book. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own and honest.
Happy reading!
Danae Collins is a school librarian in the process of adopting one of her students out of foster care. Becoming a single parent to a child with trauma turns out to be the most challenging thing she’s ever done (unsurprisingly). But between her to-do lists and anxiously chipped nail polish, Danae can’t help but fear her love won’t be enough to help her little guy thrive. Until baseball camp.
Danae loathes baseball, so she doesn’t realize the man running the camp is the local sports team hero- and her sons idol. But although Danae loathes the game, she can’t help but be drawn to the man who plays it. And as she gets to know Griffin, she finds herself wanting to slide into the safety of his arms.
What to expect:
-Dual POV
-Closed door, clean romance
-Baseball player x librarian
-Single parent with foster care
-No third act breakup
This book was so dang wholesome. My favorite thing was the wonderful communication between our MCs. It was honestly a great example of the type of honesty and openness everyone should strive for in a relationship.
The topics the book addressed could get heavy at times, but they were all handled so well that I found myself tearing up at the care. But definitely check your TWs before diving in.
The only reason this book doesn’t get a 5 stars for me is for some of the pacing and flow in the story. At times the writing felt a little clinical? I don’t know how else I’d describe it. It wasn’t bad, but it made it harder to get lost in the story. Maybe the best way to describe it was that the characters all conversed with each other in a way that didn’t feel real. At least not any way I’ve ever talked with people. Anyways.
I can’t wait to read more from this author. And I can’t thank her enough for the ARC of her book. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own and honest.
Happy reading!
August 4, 2025
Home Safe by Tracy Baack - 4.5 stars✨
This is my second book by Tracy and it's my favorite so far! Home Safe is a contemporary romance about a professional baseball player and elementary school librarian who just became a single mom.
I do not cry a lot in books so it is notable that this book made me cry several times. Definitely the most that I've cried over book characters in 2025. There are so many heartfelt emotional moments with the adoption and these two very realistic, mature adults dealing with really hard things in their lives.
Tropes:
Baseball romance
Book lover, baseball hater FMC
Baseball player, book hater MMC
Long distance
Anxiety representation
Foster care/adoption representation
No spice or language
I also don't feel like we have a ton of long distance relationships in books and I appreciate this one diving into that and showing how it really felt insurmountable but they got through it as a team.
If you ever feel like you want a book where the couple is together for more than just a very end, this is for you. It's definitely not a slow burn and the romance felt fast, but didn't feel forced because they were mature adults in their 30s.
🛑Spoiler: I also really love how Tracy didn't make these two have a change of heart about their hobbies and passions. At the end of this book Danae still didn't like baseball and Griffin still didn't like reading. And being with each other didn't change that. That's so realistic! You can be with someone who likes different things than you!🛑
Add this one to your TBR!
This is my second book by Tracy and it's my favorite so far! Home Safe is a contemporary romance about a professional baseball player and elementary school librarian who just became a single mom.
I do not cry a lot in books so it is notable that this book made me cry several times. Definitely the most that I've cried over book characters in 2025. There are so many heartfelt emotional moments with the adoption and these two very realistic, mature adults dealing with really hard things in their lives.
Tropes:
Baseball romance
Book lover, baseball hater FMC
Baseball player, book hater MMC
Long distance
Anxiety representation
Foster care/adoption representation
No spice or language
I also don't feel like we have a ton of long distance relationships in books and I appreciate this one diving into that and showing how it really felt insurmountable but they got through it as a team.
If you ever feel like you want a book where the couple is together for more than just a very end, this is for you. It's definitely not a slow burn and the romance felt fast, but didn't feel forced because they were mature adults in their 30s.
🛑Spoiler: I also really love how Tracy didn't make these two have a change of heart about their hobbies and passions. At the end of this book Danae still didn't like baseball and Griffin still didn't like reading. And being with each other didn't change that. That's so realistic! You can be with someone who likes different things than you!🛑
Add this one to your TBR!
June 28, 2025
"Thanks, bud," I say, pulling him to me for one more hug. "I really love you, you know? With you one hundred percent, forever kind of love." He squeezes me harder. "I love you too." And now I'm crying.
Tracy really hit it out of the park with this one!! I really liked the characters and how they each had their own unique stories.
I really loved getting to see both Danae and Griffin each growing in their relationship with Jason! Jason was the sweetest and I love his character. I also really enjoyed watching Danae grow as a person and through her past so she could be there for Jason. I feel like the author did a great job at balancing the heavy parts of the book and the light hearted moments, with everything that comes with foster care and past traumas.
I’ve recently been getting into watching baseball (Savannah Bananas to be specific 🤭) so I enjoyed all of the baseball aspects and I was happy when I got all of the lingo 😂 But don’t worry! It’s perfect for any romance reader, the female main character didn’t like baseball so it’s enjoyable for everyone!
This is a perfect book to get lost in this summer, and I would highly recommend it for fans of super sweet sports romances 💕
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Tracy really hit it out of the park with this one!! I really liked the characters and how they each had their own unique stories.
I really loved getting to see both Danae and Griffin each growing in their relationship with Jason! Jason was the sweetest and I love his character. I also really enjoyed watching Danae grow as a person and through her past so she could be there for Jason. I feel like the author did a great job at balancing the heavy parts of the book and the light hearted moments, with everything that comes with foster care and past traumas.
I’ve recently been getting into watching baseball (Savannah Bananas to be specific 🤭) so I enjoyed all of the baseball aspects and I was happy when I got all of the lingo 😂 But don’t worry! It’s perfect for any romance reader, the female main character didn’t like baseball so it’s enjoyable for everyone!
This is a perfect book to get lost in this summer, and I would highly recommend it for fans of super sweet sports romances 💕
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 25, 2025
💙 This was the perfect romance to escape into this summer! After a streak of heavier reads and lots of historical fiction, I needed something light (without being too fluffy or shallow). Easily one of the most enjoyable opposites attract rom-coms I’ve read in a while!
⚾️ Danae and Griffin were such great characters. I appreciated their maturity and willingness to communicate openly. No drama, no game playing… just two adults navigating something genuine and tender!
💙 I also loved the foster and adoption representation. Tracy didn’t gloss over the challenges of adopting an older child with trauma, which felt very important!
⚾️ I want to commend Tracy for writing Danae’s struggle with anxiety on paper, too. We get a real look into her inner wrestlings and the real steps she takes towards healing through therapy and Griffin’s steady presence. (But it was never magically fixed by falling in love— I appreciated that!)
💙 Also, the MMC, Griffin? I’m always here for a man who knows what he wants, pursues it with intention, isn’t afraid of HARD and embraces both marriage and fatherhood with his whole heart.
Tracy, you knocked it out of the park! 👏
Releases June 30—be sure to toss it in your beach bag! 🏖️
Thank you to NetGalley and Tracy Baack for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
⚠️ Content: Closed-door, No language. Childhood trauma, toxic/dysfunctional parenting.
July 18, 2025
(Mini Review)
⚾️ Home Safe by Tracy Baack ⚾️
🧢 Tropes and things you’ll love 🧢
⚾️ Strangers to Lovers
⚾️ Opposites Attract
⚾️ Single-Foster mom
⚾️ Found Family
⚾️ Healthy Communication
⚾️ Healing
⚾️ Foster Care Rep
⚾️ Baseball Romance
⚾️ Bookish Librarian + Pro Baseball Player
⚾️ Growth
⚾️ Adoption
⚾️ Dual POV
⚾️ Dreamy MMC
⚾️ Meet Cute
“When Jason shrugs, I continue. ‘I don’t just mean I like you, or I think you’re a really cool kid. It means that you’re really, really important to me, and I choose you as my biggest priority.’ His eyes widen, and I squeeze his shoulders again. ‘It means I’m with you one hundred percent, forever. I’m yours and you’re mine, no matter what happens. You and me together—that’s home. When I say ‘I love you’, it means you’re stuck with me forever, okay?’ I finish with a teasing smile.
OH MY GOODNESS. This wasn’t some fluffy contemporary romance that was all lighthearted and enjoyable because you didn’t have to think much of the time… No, this was a book to cry over, to laugh over, and to swoon over. This book had depth and lots of it. It’s heavy on the topic of Adoption, Foster Care, Anxiety, and Trauma. I was not expecting this, no I wasn’t; but because I wasn’t expecting this it made it even more enjoyable to me! This was the best of both worlds… I love the sport of baseball and I also love READING!
“ ‘I don’t love you because you add value to my life—even though you do. I love you because of who you are, because of your heart, your tenderness, your concern for others, your passion for books and Jason and teaching. I love you for all the amazing ways you bring light to the world. I am here, and I am not leaving,’ he says.I love you His words register in my mind, and my eyes double in size. ‘You love me?’ I whisper.
Griffin slowly tucks a strand of (wet) hair behind my ear and gently wipes my (wet) cheeks with his thumb before he answers. ‘I love you, Danae.’
The characters were done SO WELL.
~ Danae- was so relatable to me and I thought she was such a great mom! Loved her
~ Jason- was THE cutest little red-headed boy! My heart broke for him multiple times and all the moments with him and Danae?? 100% Perfect.
~ Sammi- was the sweetest… I can’t think of any other way to describe her
Last but not Least we have
~ Griffin- he’s my manz right here… like he was EVERYTHING you would ever want in a man. First of all a Baseball Player?!!! Secondly, he didn’t run away from the thought of having to raise Jason if he wanted a relationship with Danae?! Thirdly, he was AMAZING?! He was completely committed to Danae and Jason.. constantly showing his love to them. My heart nearly burst out of my chest about a thousand times!
Parts I liked:
💙Meet Cute
💙Harry Potter Theme song!! You’ll know what I mean when you read it ;)
💙The Questions by texting
💙Deep Conversations
💙Reading to Jason
💙Jason calling Danae “Mom” 🥹🥹
💙Protective Griff
💙First Kiss
💙The “I love yous”
💙 and basically every darn page in this book 😂😆😝
I could not recommend this more! Even if you loathe baseball like Danae (though I couldn’t imagine why you would hate Baseball, unless you have a valid reason like Danae 😂😉) , I would still recommend you read this book. It’ll change your life!!
“‘You might be the Wizard of Defense to some people, but not to me. You’re my safe place, Griffin. And I’ll be yours too, now and long after the Wizard is gone. I’m with you.’”
⚠️ Age Recommendation: 16-17+ ⚠️
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content Info:
🔥Romance: up to mildly descriptive kissing (there was quite a bit of kissing) Touches (not handsy) ‘Babe’ is said.
🤬Language: none
💣Violence: not a lot, no. Some mentions of Griffin’s injury.. another injury (lightly detailed). Mentions of Jason’s father going to prison, not having custody of him on and off. Mentions of Jason’s mom having a drug overdose when she died.
LGBTQ Content: none
‼️Trigger Warnings: Foster Care, Adoption, Adoptees, Trauma, Therapy Sessions, Family Problems, Drug Abuse, and Drug Overdose.
There was an author’s note that warned of some of these triggers which I thought was very helpful.
POV’s: Griffin West and Danae Collins
⚾️ Home Safe by Tracy Baack ⚾️
🧢 Tropes and things you’ll love 🧢
⚾️ Strangers to Lovers
⚾️ Opposites Attract
⚾️ Single-Foster mom
⚾️ Found Family
⚾️ Healthy Communication
⚾️ Healing
⚾️ Foster Care Rep
⚾️ Baseball Romance
⚾️ Bookish Librarian + Pro Baseball Player
⚾️ Growth
⚾️ Adoption
⚾️ Dual POV
⚾️ Dreamy MMC
⚾️ Meet Cute
“When Jason shrugs, I continue. ‘I don’t just mean I like you, or I think you’re a really cool kid. It means that you’re really, really important to me, and I choose you as my biggest priority.’ His eyes widen, and I squeeze his shoulders again. ‘It means I’m with you one hundred percent, forever. I’m yours and you’re mine, no matter what happens. You and me together—that’s home. When I say ‘I love you’, it means you’re stuck with me forever, okay?’ I finish with a teasing smile.
OH MY GOODNESS. This wasn’t some fluffy contemporary romance that was all lighthearted and enjoyable because you didn’t have to think much of the time… No, this was a book to cry over, to laugh over, and to swoon over. This book had depth and lots of it. It’s heavy on the topic of Adoption, Foster Care, Anxiety, and Trauma. I was not expecting this, no I wasn’t; but because I wasn’t expecting this it made it even more enjoyable to me! This was the best of both worlds… I love the sport of baseball and I also love READING!
“ ‘I don’t love you because you add value to my life—even though you do. I love you because of who you are, because of your heart, your tenderness, your concern for others, your passion for books and Jason and teaching. I love you for all the amazing ways you bring light to the world. I am here, and I am not leaving,’ he says.I love you His words register in my mind, and my eyes double in size. ‘You love me?’ I whisper.
Griffin slowly tucks a strand of (wet) hair behind my ear and gently wipes my (wet) cheeks with his thumb before he answers. ‘I love you, Danae.’
The characters were done SO WELL.
~ Danae- was so relatable to me and I thought she was such a great mom! Loved her
~ Jason- was THE cutest little red-headed boy! My heart broke for him multiple times and all the moments with him and Danae?? 100% Perfect.
~ Sammi- was the sweetest… I can’t think of any other way to describe her
Last but not Least we have
~ Griffin- he’s my manz right here… like he was EVERYTHING you would ever want in a man. First of all a Baseball Player?!!! Secondly, he didn’t run away from the thought of having to raise Jason if he wanted a relationship with Danae?! Thirdly, he was AMAZING?! He was completely committed to Danae and Jason.. constantly showing his love to them. My heart nearly burst out of my chest about a thousand times!
Parts I liked:
💙Meet Cute
💙Harry Potter Theme song!! You’ll know what I mean when you read it ;)
💙The Questions by texting
💙Deep Conversations
💙Reading to Jason
💙Jason calling Danae “Mom” 🥹🥹
💙Protective Griff
💙First Kiss
💙The “I love yous”
💙 and basically every darn page in this book 😂😆😝
I could not recommend this more! Even if you loathe baseball like Danae (though I couldn’t imagine why you would hate Baseball, unless you have a valid reason like Danae 😂😉) , I would still recommend you read this book. It’ll change your life!!
“‘You might be the Wizard of Defense to some people, but not to me. You’re my safe place, Griffin. And I’ll be yours too, now and long after the Wizard is gone. I’m with you.’”
⚠️ Age Recommendation: 16-17+ ⚠️
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content Info:
🔥Romance: up to mildly descriptive kissing (there was quite a bit of kissing) Touches (not handsy) ‘Babe’ is said.
🤬Language: none
💣Violence: not a lot, no. Some mentions of Griffin’s injury.. another injury (lightly detailed). Mentions of Jason’s father going to prison, not having custody of him on and off. Mentions of Jason’s mom having a drug overdose when she died.
LGBTQ Content: none
‼️Trigger Warnings: Foster Care, Adoption, Adoptees, Trauma, Therapy Sessions, Family Problems, Drug Abuse, and Drug Overdose.
There was an author’s note that warned of some of these triggers which I thought was very helpful.
POV’s: Griffin West and Danae Collins
June 23, 2025
Well, this was just be most wholesome book I’ve read in a long time. This is already clear to me, but books like this just make it so evident that spice is not needed for romance novels to have chemistry and heat and tenderness.
This book felt so much more mature than most romance novels I’ve read. I mean, it’s rare that the MCs actually go on dates and start dating in the novel and I loved that aspect of it. They got to navigate the challenges of his MLB career and her new life as a single mom through adoption together as a dating couple who wanted to fight for their relationship. There were so many tender and sweet moments that brought tears to my eyes.
Language - none
Spice - kisses only!
TWs- check author’s note
Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing, and Tracy for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book felt so much more mature than most romance novels I’ve read. I mean, it’s rare that the MCs actually go on dates and start dating in the novel and I loved that aspect of it. They got to navigate the challenges of his MLB career and her new life as a single mom through adoption together as a dating couple who wanted to fight for their relationship. There were so many tender and sweet moments that brought tears to my eyes.
Language - none
Spice - kisses only!
TWs- check author’s note
Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing, and Tracy for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 27, 2025
4.5⭐️
“I’m with you one hundred percent, forever.” 💙
read if you like:
+ sweet sports romance
+ opposites attract
+ adoption rep
+ found family
One hundred percent, my new favorite @authortracybaack book!! If you’re looking for a baseball romance that is fullll of heart but low on spice (kisses only), add this to your TBR asap! Danae and Griffin are the ultimate opposites attract (he loves baseball, she loves books… she’s anxious, he’s solid and supportive), but when Danae brings her new adopted son to Griffin’s baseball camp for kids in foster care, their immediate connection is undeniable.
what I loved:
+ the sweetest baseball-obsessed 9-year-old red-haired boy you’ve ever met 🥹
+ Danae’s love for Jason truly inspiring me to be a better mom
+ Griffin being the definition of “if he wanted to, he would”
+ team locker room banter
+ lovable secondary characters (team Sammi forever)
+ cutie text conversations
+ mature communication 👏🏼
+ sentimental walk-up songs ⚾️
+ local KC shoutouts (I see you monarch and Sylas + Maddy’s ice cream 🤗)
Whether you love or hate baseball (iykyk), this sports romance will have you feeling allll the big feels. 🥹
Thank you soooo much, Tracy, for the early copy of this amazing book. I loved it so much, and I adored that it takes place in our home sweet Kansas City. 💙
“I’m with you one hundred percent, forever.” 💙
read if you like:
+ sweet sports romance
+ opposites attract
+ adoption rep
+ found family
One hundred percent, my new favorite @authortracybaack book!! If you’re looking for a baseball romance that is fullll of heart but low on spice (kisses only), add this to your TBR asap! Danae and Griffin are the ultimate opposites attract (he loves baseball, she loves books… she’s anxious, he’s solid and supportive), but when Danae brings her new adopted son to Griffin’s baseball camp for kids in foster care, their immediate connection is undeniable.
what I loved:
+ the sweetest baseball-obsessed 9-year-old red-haired boy you’ve ever met 🥹
+ Danae’s love for Jason truly inspiring me to be a better mom
+ Griffin being the definition of “if he wanted to, he would”
+ team locker room banter
+ lovable secondary characters (team Sammi forever)
+ cutie text conversations
+ mature communication 👏🏼
+ sentimental walk-up songs ⚾️
+ local KC shoutouts (I see you monarch and Sylas + Maddy’s ice cream 🤗)
Whether you love or hate baseball (iykyk), this sports romance will have you feeling allll the big feels. 🥹
Thank you soooo much, Tracy, for the early copy of this amazing book. I loved it so much, and I adored that it takes place in our home sweet Kansas City. 💙
June 18, 2025
Tracy, this book is a home run! Yes, I just used baseball terminology for a baseball romance. I’m honestly not a huge baseball fan, but because Tracy Baack was writing it, I wanted to read it! I’m so glad I did because book had stolen my heart like Griffin stole third base! She does such a phenomenal job writing realistic, authentic characters with relatable stories!
Danae is a school librarian and new foster mom to Jason who hates baseball. She meets Griffin West, who is absolutely perfect, except for the fact he’s a famous professional baseball player…I absolutely love these two main characters! Danae is a textbook overthinker which was so relatable to me! I don’t have any experience with fostering or adoption, but her raw emotions felt so authentic and well done. Griffin is the human can opener who loves with everything he has. Their communication was so beautiful and inspiring!
As much as I loved Dane and Griffin, the side characters were wonderfully written as well! The character dynamics between all of them was so well done and just added another perfect dynamic! I want Samantha as a best friend!
So if you’re not a baseball fan, neither was the main character and that turned out all right in the end. Don’t let that stop you from picking this book up and devouring it over a weekend like I did!
*I received a free ARC of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.*
Danae is a school librarian and new foster mom to Jason who hates baseball. She meets Griffin West, who is absolutely perfect, except for the fact he’s a famous professional baseball player…I absolutely love these two main characters! Danae is a textbook overthinker which was so relatable to me! I don’t have any experience with fostering or adoption, but her raw emotions felt so authentic and well done. Griffin is the human can opener who loves with everything he has. Their communication was so beautiful and inspiring!
As much as I loved Dane and Griffin, the side characters were wonderfully written as well! The character dynamics between all of them was so well done and just added another perfect dynamic! I want Samantha as a best friend!
So if you’re not a baseball fan, neither was the main character and that turned out all right in the end. Don’t let that stop you from picking this book up and devouring it over a weekend like I did!
*I received a free ARC of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.*
June 23, 2025
The depth of these characters is incredible. the storyline, the rollercoaster of emotions, the peek into adoption life; all left this book in high regards.
Home Safe ⚾
This opposites attract romance was wholesome, deep, and inspiring. @authortracybaack always sucks me into her books within a chapter (usually the first paragraph 🤣) and I can't put down the story until I finish it; this novel was no different! I appreciated the depth of the characters and storyline. She was joking with opposites in her characters either!! But the couples desire to make things work was so realistic to read. Put this one on your TBR 😉
Home Safe ⚾
This opposites attract romance was wholesome, deep, and inspiring. @authortracybaack always sucks me into her books within a chapter (usually the first paragraph 🤣) and I can't put down the story until I finish it; this novel was no different! I appreciated the depth of the characters and storyline. She was joking with opposites in her characters either!! But the couples desire to make things work was so realistic to read. Put this one on your TBR 😉
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