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Sometimes Love… #2
Sometimes Love Throws a Curveball
Cruz came to Maple Valley to rest and recover from a mid-season injury. Pretending to date the beautiful Airbnb hostess was not in the plan.
Neither was falling in love.
When the booking for six weeks in the apartment above the bookstore her family owns came through the Airbnb app, Sadie chalked it up to answered prayers. She never expected the renter to be Cruz, the man who visited the store six months before and signed his brother up for the Blind Date with a Book subscription she had just started offering. She also never expected Cruz to be Cruz Callahan, the shortstop for the Charleston Kings that the internet—and most of the female population—can’t get enough of.
When a fan takes a photo of Cruz and Sadie and posts it online, speculating that Cruz chose to spend his recovery time in Maple Valley to be with his girlfriend, Cruz and his agent think it would be an excellent idea for Sadie to pretend to be Cruz’s girlfriend to help ‘improve his image’ and ‘show the fans that he has changed.’ Sadie is ready to turn the offer down, but the attention Cruz is bringing to the bookstore is great for business, and she could use all the help she can get.
As the line between real and fake begins to blur, Sadie realizes that Cruz is the curveball she never saw coming. Time will tell if they’re heading for a home run or a strikeout.
Neither was falling in love.
When the booking for six weeks in the apartment above the bookstore her family owns came through the Airbnb app, Sadie chalked it up to answered prayers. She never expected the renter to be Cruz, the man who visited the store six months before and signed his brother up for the Blind Date with a Book subscription she had just started offering. She also never expected Cruz to be Cruz Callahan, the shortstop for the Charleston Kings that the internet—and most of the female population—can’t get enough of.
When a fan takes a photo of Cruz and Sadie and posts it online, speculating that Cruz chose to spend his recovery time in Maple Valley to be with his girlfriend, Cruz and his agent think it would be an excellent idea for Sadie to pretend to be Cruz’s girlfriend to help ‘improve his image’ and ‘show the fans that he has changed.’ Sadie is ready to turn the offer down, but the attention Cruz is bringing to the bookstore is great for business, and she could use all the help she can get.
As the line between real and fake begins to blur, Sadie realizes that Cruz is the curveball she never saw coming. Time will tell if they’re heading for a home run or a strikeout.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 20, 2026
4.5 stars!
THIS BOOK… oh my goodness, it was so sweet!!! A tender and touching story of family, faith, and redemption. And, of course, aww-inducing romance! The faith themes are so powerful in this book, bursting beyond the pages and into your heart. God is so present in this book, and His hand was truly over the author as she wove this story. Both Sadie and Cruz’s testimonies are portrayed in a raw and honest way, and their relationship is one that you can’t help but root for! Also, in their faith, it was as if they just couldn’t help but share God’s love and the salvation we have through Jesus so that others may know Him. They prayed together and for one another, and each helped the other along in their relationship with the Lord when they stumbled. It shows that no matter your past, you are never to far gone for God. Sadie’s family was also so special to see! Their care and dynamic as adopted siblings was so sweet 🥰
Yes, Cruz justifies lying to her during the “fake” relationship, which is frustrating. However, after they’ve taken some time, Sadie and Cruz actually talk it out, an aspect very nice to see! That was really the only thing I didn’t love in the narrative, but appreciated their eventual communication and that they sought out advice.
This is a clean book!!! No spice (kisses only), no swearing, and mild innuendo (mainly insinuating Cruz’s past before Christ).
Other content considerations: grief, death, injury, emotional trauma, and deception.
Christian content: Yes, yes, and yes! The characters attend church, do Bible studies, pray together and separately (on page), and share their testimonies and love for God. Also highlights the powerful redemption that comes through Jesus, and that He can do incredible things with our pasts to help others come to know Him. The characters remain steadfast in their walk with Him, even and especially when they stumble.
Overall, this was such a beautiful book full of powerful faith, a close-nit family, hope, sweet and tender love, and salvation. I highly recommend!!!
Happy reading :)
THIS BOOK… oh my goodness, it was so sweet!!! A tender and touching story of family, faith, and redemption. And, of course, aww-inducing romance! The faith themes are so powerful in this book, bursting beyond the pages and into your heart. God is so present in this book, and His hand was truly over the author as she wove this story. Both Sadie and Cruz’s testimonies are portrayed in a raw and honest way, and their relationship is one that you can’t help but root for! Also, in their faith, it was as if they just couldn’t help but share God’s love and the salvation we have through Jesus so that others may know Him. They prayed together and for one another, and each helped the other along in their relationship with the Lord when they stumbled. It shows that no matter your past, you are never to far gone for God. Sadie’s family was also so special to see! Their care and dynamic as adopted siblings was so sweet 🥰
Yes, Cruz justifies lying to her during the “fake” relationship, which is frustrating. However, after they’ve taken some time, Sadie and Cruz actually talk it out, an aspect very nice to see! That was really the only thing I didn’t love in the narrative, but appreciated their eventual communication and that they sought out advice.
This is a clean book!!! No spice (kisses only), no swearing, and mild innuendo (mainly insinuating Cruz’s past before Christ).
Other content considerations: grief, death, injury, emotional trauma, and deception.
Christian content: Yes, yes, and yes! The characters attend church, do Bible studies, pray together and separately (on page), and share their testimonies and love for God. Also highlights the powerful redemption that comes through Jesus, and that He can do incredible things with our pasts to help others come to know Him. The characters remain steadfast in their walk with Him, even and especially when they stumble.
Overall, this was such a beautiful book full of powerful faith, a close-nit family, hope, sweet and tender love, and salvation. I highly recommend!!!
Happy reading :)
November 11, 2025
Wow, I totally binge read this book, I could NOT put it down once I started! I loved the first book, but this one...wow!
Fake dating? Yes, please! She’s never been kissed; he’s the recently redeemed bad boy trying to clean up his image. He falls first, there’s a secret identity twist , this story has everything!
When Sadie first meets Cruz, it’s just in passing at her family’s bookstore. She doesn’t know who he is, but he definitely makes an impression on her… and she makes one on him too. So much so that when he gets injured and needs a quiet place to rest, relax, and rebuild his reputation, he ends up in Maple Valley, right where Sadie lives.
A quick stop into her bookstore (and renting her airbnb) turns into a misunderstanding that spirals into a plan: they’ll fake date. For Sadie, it means great publicity for her bookshop; for Cruz, it’s a chance to show the world he’s changed and can commit to one woman. Sounds simple , but of course, it’s not.
With paparazzi watching his every move, Cruz hiding a secret from Sadie, and Sadie wrestling with another unexpected connection, neither of them knows what’s real, what’s fake, or when (or if) they should take a chance on something real between them.
This story was WONDERFUL. The faith element was strong but never preachy, and I loved watching their feelings grow. There was instant chemistry, even before they realized it themselves. I loved all the teammates, family and community always being such a large part of the story as well.
I loved revisiting the side characters in this one! ❤️
I gave this 4.5 stars rounded up to 5!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Fake dating? Yes, please! She’s never been kissed; he’s the recently redeemed bad boy trying to clean up his image. He falls first, there’s a secret identity twist , this story has everything!
When Sadie first meets Cruz, it’s just in passing at her family’s bookstore. She doesn’t know who he is, but he definitely makes an impression on her… and she makes one on him too. So much so that when he gets injured and needs a quiet place to rest, relax, and rebuild his reputation, he ends up in Maple Valley, right where Sadie lives.
A quick stop into her bookstore (and renting her airbnb) turns into a misunderstanding that spirals into a plan: they’ll fake date. For Sadie, it means great publicity for her bookshop; for Cruz, it’s a chance to show the world he’s changed and can commit to one woman. Sounds simple , but of course, it’s not.
With paparazzi watching his every move, Cruz hiding a secret from Sadie, and Sadie wrestling with another unexpected connection, neither of them knows what’s real, what’s fake, or when (or if) they should take a chance on something real between them.
This story was WONDERFUL. The faith element was strong but never preachy, and I loved watching their feelings grow. There was instant chemistry, even before they realized it themselves. I loved all the teammates, family and community always being such a large part of the story as well.
I loved revisiting the side characters in this one! ❤️
I gave this 4.5 stars rounded up to 5!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.
November 15, 2025
Full Review:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such a lovely read, It kept me up until 2am just to finish reading it because I simply couldn’t put it down and I’m not sure how I could claim one single thing as my favorite part cause it was just so good!
Cruz Callahan, possibly one of the smoothest swoon-worthy MMC’s ever!!!!
Sadie Shepherd’s personality kept me so enthralled with the story and I have to admit, the Oldest sibling/ daughter guilt of feeling like your resposible for everything is real and it was displayed so well in this book and watching Sadie learn to trust and allow someone to take care of her was so beautiful.
Another one of my favorite things was the rest of the Shepherd siblings and the foster/ adoption rep, I found myself wishing so bad that I could meet this family in real life!
Overall this was a terrific story of Love and Redemption, I couldn’t give any less than 6 stars because this story was just too amazing!
Thank you so much for the ARC @laurahawkinsauthor! This review is completely voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This was such a lovely read, It kept me up until 2am just to finish reading it because I simply couldn’t put it down and I’m not sure how I could claim one single thing as my favorite part cause it was just so good!
Cruz Callahan, possibly one of the smoothest swoon-worthy MMC’s ever!!!!
Sadie Shepherd’s personality kept me so enthralled with the story and I have to admit, the Oldest sibling/ daughter guilt of feeling like your resposible for everything is real and it was displayed so well in this book and watching Sadie learn to trust and allow someone to take care of her was so beautiful.
Another one of my favorite things was the rest of the Shepherd siblings and the foster/ adoption rep, I found myself wishing so bad that I could meet this family in real life!
Overall this was a terrific story of Love and Redemption, I couldn’t give any less than 6 stars because this story was just too amazing!
Thank you so much for the ARC @laurahawkinsauthor! This review is completely voluntary and all opinions are my own.
August 7, 2026
⭐️4.0⭐️
•If you want to know about the language and things like that, there will be a section at the bottom marked by these (🤐🥰) emojis.
‼️SPOILERS AHEAD‼️
A sweet, but sometimes a bit cheesy, story. I liked it, even though there were moments I thought were a bit off for me. It was kinda like watching a Disney channel movie, there might be a part that is sweet, but when you think about it happening out of the context of the movie or not with those characters it can be a bit cringy...but you still enjoy it overall. 😂 It was still a good story. I loved how Cruz just wanted to help out Sadie with her family. That is a point for him, right there. 😂 I was not expecting her parents to die, that was shocking to me. 🥺 They were trying to adjust to it and it was very interesting to me. The scene with Lizzie having to go to the hospital was stressing me out, but in a good way. 😂 Overall, I enjoyed this book. Especially the mentions of God throughout it!
💭 My thoughts throughout the book:
Page 4 (on Kindle) and there is already talk of God, love that!
She's 5'2 and her brother calls for fun sized. 😂 I don't have a brother...but the comments on shortness is very relatable. 😂
💬 “Have a good day, Shepherds. Don’t forget that you’re God’s child first and our child second. Go out there and make all of us proud.”
That's how the dad said goodbye to his children in the morning. Sweet! ☺️
Ezra wanting to talk to his sister about his crush...so cute! "I say a quick prayer, asking God to give me the right words to encourage and guide Ezra as he puts himself out there." I love a brother sister moment. 😊😂
Cruz keeps calling her Tinkerbell and Tink because she reminds him of that character...she's short....little cringy...but funny. 😂😂 (I got used to it throughout the book. 😂)
Bro..you're actually going to buy the woman's study Bible?? 🤣
She's already liking "Alexander"...and I have to admit...I love how he told her to send him books that she's read so he can discuss them with her...great way to continue to talk to her. 👍😂👍 Smooth. 😂
💬 "There’s no doubt in my mind that God brought my family together, and I’m so thankful He did."
Just love this line. 🥰
The guys on the baseball team have started an instagram account called, "Kings Pursuing the True King." I love that!
They just tell each other what they are learning. 🥹 Where are these men in real life?? 😂
Her parents died!! What?! I probably saw that was going to happen when trying to figure out what this book was about....but I had completely forgot. That was so sad. 😢
A girl comments on a video of Cruz “I loved your last video, the one with the Benson Boone song.” reminds me of the Savannah Bananas. 😂 The first video I ever saw of them was a guy doing a walk-on to a Benson Boone song. 😂 I wonder if that inspired this line. 😂
Bro! Buy a new Bible! Am I the only one who finds that a bit odd?? 😂 Get a men's study Bible. It would be more tailored to him, wouldn't it? 😅
A 23 and 28 year old are fake dating...kinda funny to me. 😂 Also....that's a MAN! I can't imagine dating a 25 year old...(I'm 20) that sounds so much older than I am. 😅
💬 "he scoops me into a hug and kisses my forehead—because there are people in the store, and, of course, a boyfriend would greet his girlfriend with a kiss. There’s clearly no other reason."
"I roll my eyes and kiss his cheek, for the onlookers in the Nonfiction aisle behind me. No other reason."
Girl. Katniss Everdeen, that you? 😂 Seriously, that is the most Katniss line I have ever heard. 😂
💬 "I slept soundly, with no nightmares, no waking up anxious or afraid that the kids were awake and crying because they missed Mom and Dad, and no insomnia as I imagined what life would be like if they were still here. I just slept and it was wonderful. I was warm, comfortable, and safe."
This whole part is very much like Katniss and Peeta as well. Can you tell I just read the books? 😂
💬 "It feels like the line between real and fake is blurring, but I don’t know if he feels it too. Maybe it’s just me."
Don't we all have that moment where we think WE are delusional? 😂
💬 "He must have taken an acting class or been in theater at some point in his life to pull off that level of convincing."
Seriously, No one told me I was reading "The Hunger Games" again. He's being interview and is gushing about her and she thinks he's faking.......girl. 😂
💬 "The old Cruz would have been cussing you up one side and down the other for the catch you missed last night, and he’d have a blonde in his lap by now.”
I don't like the way this one is talking. Shane...his name is Shane...I don't like him very much. 😅
💬 "When I turn back to the table, all eyes are on me. Marco, another outfielder, nods and smiles, as if he’s figured something out. 'You’re keeping her number, aren’t you? If things don’t work out between them, you’re free to swoop in.' "
Ewww-wa! Ditch these friends! Ditch the fiends! 😂
💬 “Well, hello. Aren’t you Cruz Callahan?” I nod, and she sets a hand on my forearm. She slowly runs her hand up to my bicep as she introduces herself. “I’m Lily.” I sit back against the low back of the barstool and cross my arms, clearly conveying my intentions to shut her down. “Well, Lily, I hope you have a great rest of your night.”
This is making me nervous, but I'm liking how he's handling it.
"She makes a show of looking around the bar. 'Is your girlfriend here?' 'Regardless of where she is, I’m still hers.' I meet her gaze and speak loud and clear. 'I’m not available.' "
This man. I LOVE this!! Regardless of if she's her or not.....I'm stills hers! And they aren't even actually dating!!! THIS WOMAN NEEDS TO LEAVE! 😂
I haven't even fully read what has happen...but the media took it out of context and I'm already mad. 😂😂
💬 “I know that right now your family needs you to be Wonder Woman. But even Wonder Woman had help.” I swallow my nerves and rally my courage. “Let me help you, Sadie. I could be a good sidekick.”
Sweet..but slightly cringy. 😂 One of those meanest that you just have to know what you're in for and go with it.
I'm very surprised that Sadie didn't just break up with him...but instead she just takes some time to think.
💬 "I have clothes to pack and things to overthink."
Me everyday of my life. 😂
She forgave him pretty quickly. Two weeks in book time but just several pages in the book. Which is fine, she had a "good reason" I was just shocked because it was fast. 😂
Very sweet ending. I love that the whole family (his and hers) were there to support him at the game. And the epilogue was also very sweet. 😊
•
•
•
•
•
🥰
Just a couple kisses near the end that aren't described in detail.
🤐
•Insults like:
Dimwit, Idiot, Moron, and Stupid
•"Clean curse words" such as:
"boogers" and "oh, snot"
•Some other things to note:
-One of the guys goes over to the bar area at a sports bar to drink, but Cruz does not partake. I think the team is at a sports bar again at the end, but once again, Cruz does not drink.
-Cruz talks about having been with a lot of woman before he became a Christian. He is not proud of it and is trying to change his image.
-Sadie's brother is trying to explain why a picture of her with Cruz is being talked about online, and says that some people think she is "just another notch in his belt.”
-Sadie feels guilty about the deal she has made with Cruz and says, "What kind of person does this make me? Using someone else to boost my business—it’s not just dishonest, it’s borderline prostitution. Okay, maybe that’s a little far, but it still feels wrong."
The deal has nothing to do with that, but she is feeling really bad about "using him".
-While they are watching a movie with her friends and family she falls asleep and he ends up staying on the couch with her. They're just sitting like they were while they were watching the movie, but she's asleep.
-One of his friends say, "The old Cruz would have been cussing you up one side and down the other for the catch you missed last night, and he’d have had a blonde in his lap by now.”
This friend says some stuff like this, but Cruz always refutes it.
•If you want to know about the language and things like that, there will be a section at the bottom marked by these (🤐🥰) emojis.
‼️SPOILERS AHEAD‼️
A sweet, but sometimes a bit cheesy, story. I liked it, even though there were moments I thought were a bit off for me. It was kinda like watching a Disney channel movie, there might be a part that is sweet, but when you think about it happening out of the context of the movie or not with those characters it can be a bit cringy...but you still enjoy it overall. 😂 It was still a good story. I loved how Cruz just wanted to help out Sadie with her family. That is a point for him, right there. 😂 I was not expecting her parents to die, that was shocking to me. 🥺 They were trying to adjust to it and it was very interesting to me. The scene with Lizzie having to go to the hospital was stressing me out, but in a good way. 😂 Overall, I enjoyed this book. Especially the mentions of God throughout it!
💭 My thoughts throughout the book:
Page 4 (on Kindle) and there is already talk of God, love that!
She's 5'2 and her brother calls for fun sized. 😂 I don't have a brother...but the comments on shortness is very relatable. 😂
💬 “Have a good day, Shepherds. Don’t forget that you’re God’s child first and our child second. Go out there and make all of us proud.”
That's how the dad said goodbye to his children in the morning. Sweet! ☺️
Ezra wanting to talk to his sister about his crush...so cute! "I say a quick prayer, asking God to give me the right words to encourage and guide Ezra as he puts himself out there." I love a brother sister moment. 😊😂
Cruz keeps calling her Tinkerbell and Tink because she reminds him of that character...she's short....little cringy...but funny. 😂😂 (I got used to it throughout the book. 😂)
Bro..you're actually going to buy the woman's study Bible?? 🤣
She's already liking "Alexander"...and I have to admit...I love how he told her to send him books that she's read so he can discuss them with her...great way to continue to talk to her. 👍😂👍 Smooth. 😂
💬 "There’s no doubt in my mind that God brought my family together, and I’m so thankful He did."
Just love this line. 🥰
The guys on the baseball team have started an instagram account called, "Kings Pursuing the True King." I love that!
They just tell each other what they are learning. 🥹 Where are these men in real life?? 😂
Her parents died!! What?! I probably saw that was going to happen when trying to figure out what this book was about....but I had completely forgot. That was so sad. 😢
A girl comments on a video of Cruz “I loved your last video, the one with the Benson Boone song.” reminds me of the Savannah Bananas. 😂 The first video I ever saw of them was a guy doing a walk-on to a Benson Boone song. 😂 I wonder if that inspired this line. 😂
Bro! Buy a new Bible! Am I the only one who finds that a bit odd?? 😂 Get a men's study Bible. It would be more tailored to him, wouldn't it? 😅
A 23 and 28 year old are fake dating...kinda funny to me. 😂 Also....that's a MAN! I can't imagine dating a 25 year old...(I'm 20) that sounds so much older than I am. 😅
💬 "he scoops me into a hug and kisses my forehead—because there are people in the store, and, of course, a boyfriend would greet his girlfriend with a kiss. There’s clearly no other reason."
"I roll my eyes and kiss his cheek, for the onlookers in the Nonfiction aisle behind me. No other reason."
Girl. Katniss Everdeen, that you? 😂 Seriously, that is the most Katniss line I have ever heard. 😂
💬 "I slept soundly, with no nightmares, no waking up anxious or afraid that the kids were awake and crying because they missed Mom and Dad, and no insomnia as I imagined what life would be like if they were still here. I just slept and it was wonderful. I was warm, comfortable, and safe."
This whole part is very much like Katniss and Peeta as well. Can you tell I just read the books? 😂
💬 "It feels like the line between real and fake is blurring, but I don’t know if he feels it too. Maybe it’s just me."
Don't we all have that moment where we think WE are delusional? 😂
💬 "He must have taken an acting class or been in theater at some point in his life to pull off that level of convincing."
Seriously, No one told me I was reading "The Hunger Games" again. He's being interview and is gushing about her and she thinks he's faking.......girl. 😂
💬 "The old Cruz would have been cussing you up one side and down the other for the catch you missed last night, and he’d have a blonde in his lap by now.”
I don't like the way this one is talking. Shane...his name is Shane...I don't like him very much. 😅
💬 "When I turn back to the table, all eyes are on me. Marco, another outfielder, nods and smiles, as if he’s figured something out. 'You’re keeping her number, aren’t you? If things don’t work out between them, you’re free to swoop in.' "
Ewww-wa! Ditch these friends! Ditch the fiends! 😂
💬 “Well, hello. Aren’t you Cruz Callahan?” I nod, and she sets a hand on my forearm. She slowly runs her hand up to my bicep as she introduces herself. “I’m Lily.” I sit back against the low back of the barstool and cross my arms, clearly conveying my intentions to shut her down. “Well, Lily, I hope you have a great rest of your night.”
This is making me nervous, but I'm liking how he's handling it.
"She makes a show of looking around the bar. 'Is your girlfriend here?' 'Regardless of where she is, I’m still hers.' I meet her gaze and speak loud and clear. 'I’m not available.' "
This man. I LOVE this!! Regardless of if she's her or not.....I'm stills hers! And they aren't even actually dating!!! THIS WOMAN NEEDS TO LEAVE! 😂
I haven't even fully read what has happen...but the media took it out of context and I'm already mad. 😂😂
💬 “I know that right now your family needs you to be Wonder Woman. But even Wonder Woman had help.” I swallow my nerves and rally my courage. “Let me help you, Sadie. I could be a good sidekick.”
Sweet..but slightly cringy. 😂 One of those meanest that you just have to know what you're in for and go with it.
I'm very surprised that Sadie didn't just break up with him...but instead she just takes some time to think.
💬 "I have clothes to pack and things to overthink."
Me everyday of my life. 😂
She forgave him pretty quickly. Two weeks in book time but just several pages in the book. Which is fine, she had a "good reason" I was just shocked because it was fast. 😂
Very sweet ending. I love that the whole family (his and hers) were there to support him at the game. And the epilogue was also very sweet. 😊
•
•
•
•
•
🥰
Just a couple kisses near the end that aren't described in detail.
🤐
•Insults like:
Dimwit, Idiot, Moron, and Stupid
•"Clean curse words" such as:
"boogers" and "oh, snot"
•Some other things to note:
-One of the guys goes over to the bar area at a sports bar to drink, but Cruz does not partake. I think the team is at a sports bar again at the end, but once again, Cruz does not drink.
-Cruz talks about having been with a lot of woman before he became a Christian. He is not proud of it and is trying to change his image.
-Sadie's brother is trying to explain why a picture of her with Cruz is being talked about online, and says that some people think she is "just another notch in his belt.”
-Sadie feels guilty about the deal she has made with Cruz and says, "What kind of person does this make me? Using someone else to boost my business—it’s not just dishonest, it’s borderline prostitution. Okay, maybe that’s a little far, but it still feels wrong."
The deal has nothing to do with that, but she is feeling really bad about "using him".
-While they are watching a movie with her friends and family she falls asleep and he ends up staying on the couch with her. They're just sitting like they were while they were watching the movie, but she's asleep.
-One of his friends say, "The old Cruz would have been cussing you up one side and down the other for the catch you missed last night, and he’d have had a blonde in his lap by now.”
This friend says some stuff like this, but Cruz always refutes it.
December 29, 2025
Sometimes Love Throws a Curveball is a sweet romcom filled with heart, faith, and family. Sadie is sweet, loves her family, and has the weight of the world on her shoulders. Cruz is a reformed bad boy but really is just a good guy that is trying to show the world he’s changed. Cruz and Sadie had instant chemistry, and I absolutely adored their first meeting. He is smitten from the start. When Cruz later gets injured and needs to rest and recover, going back to Maple Valley is just what he needs. Due to circumstances when Cruz returns, him and Sadie end up in a fake relationship. As they fake date, I enjoyed watching as they grow closer and romance begins to bloom. Cruz made my heart sing with how much he just wanted to help Sadie and be there for her. Cruz and Sadie’s story is just delightful, and I loved the support of her family and the community. There were several parts that had me smiling or laughing, especially their first date. Sometimes Love Throws a Curveball is certainly one to read!
My favorite things:
- Sadie and Cruz’s meet cute
- Sadie’s siblings
- The first date
- His nickname for her
- You’ve Got Mail vibes
- Her birthday surprises
- Faith-filled
Tropes: romcom = fake dating = hidden identity = reformed "player" = she's never been kissed = love triangle (sort of) = found family = sweet kisses
Happy reading!
My favorite things:
- Sadie and Cruz’s meet cute
- Sadie’s siblings
- The first date
- His nickname for her
- You’ve Got Mail vibes
- Her birthday surprises
- Faith-filled
Tropes: romcom = fake dating = hidden identity = reformed "player" = she's never been kissed = love triangle (sort of) = found family = sweet kisses
Happy reading!
November 29, 2025
This Christian romance was a breath of fresh air. I read all kinds of romance, from Christian romances to steamy romances, books like this one always make me feel so happy. First of all Cruz is the best MMC. He recently was baptized but before that he was what a lot of people call a ladies man. He didn’t date but did a whole lot of other things with woman. I feel like he met Sadie at the perfect time. This man bought a Women’s Bible by mistake and made the best out of it. Sadie has been through a lot and has a ton on her plate. Cruz entered her life when she really needed someone like him. Every interaction they had together had me smiling from ear to ear. Even though their relationship began as a fake one, it was just easy. The way they were “fake dating” but even when people weren’t around they acted like a real couple had me so giddy. I can’t wait to read the first book in this series. If you want a clean, faith based romance, read this one!
March 3, 2026
review with young girls in mind (12+):
no language, no spice, definitely Christian elements.
this book was so cute!
there were a couple scenes in a bar, but the main character isn't the one drinking. this book also talks about all the one night stands the main male character has had in the past, but he gets saved pretty early in the story, and is trying to create a new image for himself, so it's described in a regretful way, as he looks back at his mistakes. there is also a sleepover, like she falls asleep on his shoulder while watching a movie and he doesn't want to wake her, so he stays and sleeps on the couch with her snuggled up beside him. there are some light kisses that take place later, but very innocent.
no language, no spice, definitely Christian elements.
this book was so cute!
there were a couple scenes in a bar, but the main character isn't the one drinking. this book also talks about all the one night stands the main male character has had in the past, but he gets saved pretty early in the story, and is trying to create a new image for himself, so it's described in a regretful way, as he looks back at his mistakes. there is also a sleepover, like she falls asleep on his shoulder while watching a movie and he doesn't want to wake her, so he stays and sleeps on the couch with her snuggled up beside him. there are some light kisses that take place later, but very innocent.
November 20, 2025
This book is a compelling and engaging read that I found impossible to put down. The author created endearing and relatable characters that I came to love. This book included real-life narratives that anyone can relate to including foster families, grief, love, community relationships and faith! I appreciate that this book touched on the reality of some challenges we face when we are fresh in our faith and the doubts others may have of you. I love that the author gave us glimpses of characters from the first book. Overall, this book is a reminder to look to God in hard times and never give up on love and relationships❤️ ❤️
November 21, 2025
When I heard this book was coming out, I went right to reading her first book. I couldn't put either of down. I love the faith that is brought out in each of the characters and their willingness to grow.
Sometimes Love Throws a Curveball was inspiring and cozy. I enjoyed how Cruz fell hard and fast and Sadie took at a bit of warming up. I loved that this is a small town Christian rom-com. Sadie is a strong female with a lot on her plate, Cruz seems like a typical jock until Sadie enters his life. His hidden identity turns into a fake-dating situation and I couldn't be happier with the end.
Sometimes Love Throws a Curveball was inspiring and cozy. I enjoyed how Cruz fell hard and fast and Sadie took at a bit of warming up. I loved that this is a small town Christian rom-com. Sadie is a strong female with a lot on her plate, Cruz seems like a typical jock until Sadie enters his life. His hidden identity turns into a fake-dating situation and I couldn't be happier with the end.
November 27, 2025
This story is so cute and so special. It covers a lot of difficult topics through a Biblical worldview, which I really appreciate. Sadie is a woman who has been through so much in her life, but her faith never seems to waiver. Cruz is a new baby Christian who is smitten with Sadie at first glance. When his baseball career is put on hiatus during a hand injury, he makes it back to the small town and little bookstore that Sadie works in. I loved how Cruz took such good care of her simply because he wanted to. I also loved Sadie’s family. The fake dating and You’ve Got Mail vibes had me swooning and rooting for them to make it official. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series!
November 16, 2025
Love this book! The characters were so real & the storyline was amazing. Baseball, books, coffee & God…I was all in! So many things packed in the pages of this book. Found family, foster care, grief, forgiveness, second chances, fake dating, first kiss, finding faith & sharing faith. I also loved the “You’ve got mail” vibes. But my most favorite thing was knowing that no matter what is in your past, when you are buried in baptism that old life is gone & the slate is wiped clean, you are new a creature in Christ. Regardless of what the world thinks you are forgiven & changed. ❤️
July 18, 2026
This is considered the second book in the sometimes love series. But it can be read as a stand alone! I will honestly read anything by Laura. Her books are the perfect blend of faith and romance. I loved cruz and sadie's story. I will say Cooper and Jo from book 1 will probably always be my favorite but these characters are just as amazing!! Keep writing Laura, I can't wait to devour more of your books!!
November 25, 2025
I absolutely love this book!! Cruz is a reformed ladies man and Sadie has never been kissed.
While they are both thrown curveballs in their life, it brings them together in the most beautiful way.
They learn from each other in unexpected ways that helps them to grow in the best ways.
Can't wait for book #3.
While they are both thrown curveballs in their life, it brings them together in the most beautiful way.
They learn from each other in unexpected ways that helps them to grow in the best ways.
Can't wait for book #3.
December 27, 2025
Five star read! Wow! I read both books in the series in 2 days! I enjoyed the first book in this series but I think I loved the second one more! Cruz and Sadie’s characters were so relatable! I loved the faith aspect when going though trials. I’m so glad I found Laura’s books. They are fantastic fast paced reads and I can’t wait for the third book to come out!
May 11, 2026
Cute, cozy and clean
I'm not a huge romance reader, but I really enjoyed this cute dual POV story. I especially appreciated the Christian themes and adopted family representation. I recommend this book for fans of New Adult and Women's Christian fiction who love small town stories with happily-ever-afters.
I'm not a huge romance reader, but I really enjoyed this cute dual POV story. I especially appreciated the Christian themes and adopted family representation. I recommend this book for fans of New Adult and Women's Christian fiction who love small town stories with happily-ever-afters.
January 9, 2026
Definitely don't judge this book by its cover! It was so good! I love how clear the faith themes were and how they weren't just hinted at like in other books. Their struggles remind me how important it is to rely on God in the hard times. Would recommend to everyone!
March 15, 2026
I loved this book better than the first one in the series. It was so sweet and wholesome. Sadie and Cruz were throw together at a tender time in Sadie's life. This book was so easy to enjoy and devour quickly. I can't wait for book 3 to come out in this series.
April 7, 2026
Out of the Park!
This thoughtful story is wonderfully written. It shows you just how how much God really cares about every part of your life. The amazing way he blesses is though all life's ups and downs. Hope there's a sequel coming!
This thoughtful story is wonderfully written. It shows you just how how much God really cares about every part of your life. The amazing way he blesses is though all life's ups and downs. Hope there's a sequel coming!
July 1, 2026
just amazing.
This is a cute little continuation of the first book but with new characters. You learn to love cruiz and Sadie through the book and I absolutely love it. No cussing and no spice absolutely clean.
This is a cute little continuation of the first book but with new characters. You learn to love cruiz and Sadie through the book and I absolutely love it. No cussing and no spice absolutely clean.
December 10, 2025
Such a beautiful, faith based romance. I loved the relationship between Sadie and Cruz. This series has been the best I’ve read in a while.
December 13, 2025
Such a wonderful book to read, building on from the first!
The character growth, their own stories and what brings them together makes for such a wonderful book that I could not put down!
The character growth, their own stories and what brings them together makes for such a wonderful book that I could not put down!
December 26, 2025
Such a good read, the first book was really good too, but this one has a little more drama and christian focus which I loved. <3
December 30, 2025
such a cutie christian romance book! love the forced proximity, neighbors, sports loving, and the God centered themes!! not a fan of the miscommunication trope tho
January 9, 2026
Wow! The first book I enjoyed, but this one was AMAZING!!!!! I love Cruz and Sadie (plus her whole family)
February 1, 2026
So CUTE! I didn’t want the story to end LOL! Cruz and Sadie have the sweetest love story!
April 19, 2026
Real rating: 3.5
It wasn’t bad. I enjoyed their live story. But it felt rushed and short since the book was about 290 pages. I longed for more. Overall, a well written story but wanted more.
It wasn’t bad. I enjoyed their live story. But it felt rushed and short since the book was about 290 pages. I longed for more. Overall, a well written story but wanted more.
July 15, 2026
This was a totally sweet Christian fiction romance. I loved these characters… I loved this found family and their relationship with each other, and I adore a great bookshop book!
July 18, 2026
Another great book! Check out this author. She is great!!
January 26, 2026
4.5 / 5 (rounded for Goodreads)
LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH
the way Cruz loved Sadie from the moment he seen her♥️
And the way they were so perfect together. UGH I JUST CAN’T!
I absolutely LOVE Laura Hawkins and I cannot wait to read more from her!
LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH
the way Cruz loved Sadie from the moment he seen her♥️
And the way they were so perfect together. UGH I JUST CAN’T!
I absolutely LOVE Laura Hawkins and I cannot wait to read more from her!
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