Hometown Home Run

Hearts on the Sidelines #2

by Jocelyn Jacobs

Kate

Between raising my daughter, running the library, and trying to stay one step ahead of the Cedar Falls rumor mill, I barely have time to breathe. Dating isn’t even on my radar until one night at Gordy’s, one too many tequila shots, and one bold decision turn into a friends-with-benefits situation with the high school baseball coach.

I never expected Cameron Wells to become the exception to every rule I set for myself. What was supposed to be simple turns into a deeper temptation every time he’s near me. He brings an ease into my life I didn’t realize I was starving for. He’s patient when I’m spiraling, warm when I’m guarded, and completely unapologetic about caring in a way that makes my chest ache. He makes my daughter smile and begins to dismantle my walls brick by brick.

Cam

Baseball has always been the love of my life. Then Kate Prescott shows up in it with her quiet strength, her soft smile, and a daughter who has me wrapped around her finger before I can catch my breath.

It was supposed to be easy, something we could both walk away from. Instead, it becomes the thing I look forward to more than anything else. She lets me into her world slowly, and every piece she offers makes me want more. And when life throws her a curveball she never saw coming, I’m the one offering a solution that risks upending everything—a choice that asks us both to blur the line between what’s real and what we’re only pretending to be.

Hometown Home Run is a small-town, dual POV romance about a single mom learning to trust again and the high school baseball coach who’s ready to prove love is worth the swing.

Genres: Marriage Of Convenience, Friends To Lovers, Romance, He Falls First, Found Family, Baseball, Forced Proximity

352 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 19, 2026

Reviews

[Mariel Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC

If you enjoy small town, spicy romance then this is for you. It’s starts off very spicy. Kate is the town librarian and a devoted single mom who has shut out love prospects while focusing solely on her daughter, Evie. Coach Cameron Wells and Kate go from friends with benefits to marriage of convenience when Evie’s father randomly shows up after 5 years of being MIA to fight for custody. Kate is struggling to contain her feelings and set boundaries for her and Cam’s relationship and she goes back and forth until she finally sees that Cam is a good guy and lets him fully into her and her daughters life. I think Cam was definitely my favorite character. The court date at the end was the culmination of the legal battle and it lacked intensity for me. Overall, this story champions single moms, love and happy endings and I enjoyed it.

Thank you Jocelyn and The Smuthood for the opportunity to ARC review.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

BETA. Absolutely loved this story! Cam sets the bar. You want a man who steps up. Here he is. The small town vibes. Rallying behind Kate..bowing down to Queen Haddie.

[Theresa L · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️ 2.5🌶

This was sweet low angst story with the perfect amount of spice. This small town of Cedar Falls is like a warm hug. I loved being back and the nosy neighbors bring another layer of comfort. This story kept me emotionally invested but never overwhelmed. There is a softness and intimacy between the main characters that I loved and connected with.

Kate is an amazing single mom surviving on a prayer and careful balance. Her only indulgence seams to be Cam weekly. Cam is a perfect green flag book boyfriend. He always seems to know what Kate needs and he will drop anything if she asks. They are absolutely ment for eachother. You can see it in there every interaction, they just have to figure it out. I liked how they thought getting married would be temporary...the forced proximity works in Cams favor. I love the family they become with sweet little Evie. She brought alot of life to this book.

Love the found family and community in this series Im excited for book 3.

Thank you to Jocelyn Jacobs and Luna Literary for this ARC. These are my honest opinions and feelings.

[Karen B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Visiting the small town of Cedar Falls feels like coming home. This spicy romance between the high school baseball coach and the single mom librarian was lighthearted and sweet! Cam and Kate start with a friends with benefits arrangement, but when someone from her past resurfaces, shaking her existence, they cleverly used the workings of the small town and its gossip to their advantage to make their marriage of convenience seem real. Kate and her struggles were relatable, Cam protective, doting and caring, Kate’s daughter Evie, bringing humor and extra sweetness. The spice and passion was steamy (especially the library scene), and the dedication to the overall plot enduring and delightful! 4.25 stars
Thanks to the author and Luna Literary Management for the eARC

[Kirsty Gudmundsson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not all love is loud — some of it is gentle, patient, and unwavering

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Tropes:

Single mum
Friends with benefits
Baseball coach MMC
Librarian FMC
Marriage of convenience
Small town
HEA

Hands down a 5 star read, I could not put this book down. Cam has officially secured his place in the book boyfriend hall of fame. He's kind, consistent, and always showing up when it mattered most — no grand gestures needed, just steady, unwavering love.

And don’t even get me started on Haddie because that woman was out there doing the LORD’S work with her meddling.

I loved getting updates on Knox & Brynn (give me ALL the interconnected small-town goodness), and the chemistry in this?? Elite. The tension, the softness, the way everything unfolded — perfection.

[Cams Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I really liked the small town feel and the personalities in that town. Haddie sounds like a riot.
The way Cam was willing to step up for Kate was amazing. His connection with Evie was sweet and I liked the times where it was the three of them living normal life.
My main issue was I didn’t feel emotionally connected to the characters. I’m not sure why because there are plenty of tense moments where I wanted the best for them but I didn’t feel invested enough. I also really wanted to know why Daniel had his big turn around 5 years later as it didn’t feel like he actually cared.

Thank you to The Smuthood for the arc and this is my honest review.

[Sarah Furlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hometown Home Run is Book 2 of the Hearts on the Sidelines Series it is a small-town, dual POV romance romance about a single mom learning to trust again and the high school baseball coach who's ready to prove love is worth the swing.


Kate Prescott is a single librarian mom just trying to raise her daughter in the town of Cedar Falls but after a night out celebrating friends and one two many tequila shots she finds herself in close quarters with none other than the baseball coach Mr Cameron Wells what was supposed to to be a once and done as they both don’t do this sort of things turns out to be one bold decision turned into a friends-with-benefits situation. Sit back and enjoy the wild ride that is about to be brought to life with Ms Haddie Carmichael and the gossip page on the town of Cedar Falls.


Cameron Wells baseball coach of Cedar Falls High School to become the exception to every rule Kate set up for herself. What was supposed to be simple turns into a deeper temptation every time he's near me. He brings an ease into my life I didn't realize I was starving for. He's patient when I'm spiraling, warm when I'm guarded, and completely unapologetic about caring in a way that makes my chest ache. And the way he is with little Evie and when Cam called her bug, my heart and Evie called Cam “her Cam” this two and the moments they shared together were my favorite. And when Kate finally saw what he was doing. Cam just wanted to be there for her to lean on, when everyone else left, but she didn’t know how to feel the feelings about him being so present. It may have taken her some time but she finally realized that it is okay to have someone else in your corner to lean on rather than do it all yourself. And Cam was ready to do or be there for however long it took Kate to come around with his presence.


What was meant to be helpful to help her keep the custody terms as is turns out to be the one thing that they both never knew they needed at the same time. Cam was only stepping in as something temporary turned into forever when they both could fight their feelings. I was not only rooting for them to find that this is what they needed but the whole town as well. Wives father thought he could step back in after almost five years of being absent to stir up something that was already a steady and well oiled machine, but that was not happening if the towns people of Cedar Falls had a say.


The found family vibes in the book was so cute and the support they both got from their friends was exactly what was needed during the tiring times that were meant with.

However I am very curious how book three is going to go. Kinsey seems like a spit fire so I am sure she is going to put Riley through it, I can’t wait to see what that story will entail.


The one quote that stood out most:

"I'm not asking you to need me. I just... I want you to know I'm here"

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet small town romance, with spice.

I really enjoyed reading Hometown Home Run by Jocelyn Jacobs. It was my introduction to the small town of Cedar Falls and it's hysterical rumor mill. As I hadn't had the opportunity to read Jocelyn's first book in the series Hometown Touchdown. That's okay if you haven't read the first book either, Hometown Home Run is a very well written interconnected standalone. Although, I highly recommed reading the first one as well. After I read Hometown Home Run I immediately purchased the first book, Hometown Touchdown, read it and then re-read Hometown Home Run because they are that good.

Sports romance is by far my favorite trope, followed closely by No 3rd Act Breakups and Fake Relationships (dating, engagement and/or marriage). Thankfully Hometown Home Run has all three. The friends-to-lovers relationship between Cam & Katie is so beautifully written. Their chemistry on the pages is electric, with the spice starting right out of the gate in the prologue. Thankfully there is plenty more throughout the book. My only critique would be that I wish it had more baseball scenes. I love all the T-ball scenes very much as the 4 & 5 year olds are absolutely adorable and the scenes are well written with Cam as their Coach. However he is also the high school baseball coach so it would have been great to have some scenes from those practices or games as well.

As a single mom Katie has had to be everything her daughter Evie needs and along the way she built walls to protect her heart. Enter the sweet strong golden retriver high school baseball & T-ball coach Cam who falls first and hard. Unfortunately their friends-with-benefits situation is put to the test when Evie's dad comes storming back into her life without so much as a hello for the last 4 years. Can I just say that although I love Katie & Cam as they are a great couple, I absolutely love 4 year old Evie! She lights up this book with her joy, humor, love of Matilda her stuffed dinosaur and all the totally unfiltered things she says. One of my favorites: "Matilda! Coach Wells is coming! We need to look our best!"

The relationship between Katie & Cam in Hometown Home Run is one of resilience, determination, support, quiet strength, patience, and most of all love. Their love story shows that sometimes just standing beside the one you love, holding their hands while providing your strenth & support as you walk through battles with them, can be a louder stronger testiment to the love you share than burning the whole world down for them.

Thank you Jocelyn Jacobs for showing this reader who prefers Obsessive Possessive Dominant Morally Grey MMC's that a Golden Retriever MMC like Coach Cam Wells can sometimes be better.

[Joanne Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Hometown Home Run” is the second book in the “Hearts on the Sidelines” series. Welcome back to the beautiful town of Cedar Falls, where everyone knows your business and people help each other. If you love “Hometown Touchdown” with Knox and Brynn, you are guaranteed to love “Hometown Home Run” with Cam and Kate.

Cameron Wells, aka Cam, is the high school baseball coach and the t-ball coach for the younger children. Cam is a genuine nice guy…. “a baseball daddy with heart, a filthy mouth, and a hero’s swing.” All the single ladies love Cam, but he only has eyes for one woman who has been under his skin for months. For now, they are friends with benefits….

Kate Prescott, aka Katie, is the town librarian and single mum to Evie. She is a precocious four year old and the love of her life. Katie has been the only parent Evie has ever known. In her first year of college, she fell pregnant and at five months, her boyfriend, Daniel McMichael, decided he wanted nothing to do with her or the baby….that was five years ago! Now he is back and wants joint custody. She is served with a Petition for Modification of Custody to get “joint legal and physical custody of the minor child.” The first person she rings is Cam….”I don’t know what I’d do without you, Cam.”

With her life being turned upside down, Cam steps in and offers her a marriage of convenience. To the outside world, it gives the appearance of a normal family, married couple and a stable household with two incomes. It also gives Katie hope. The more time Cam and Katie spend together, the more the lines become blurred. Their feelings towards each other change very quickly. The physical attraction grows to emotional feelings …. dare I say love? The love that Cam feels towards Katie and Evie is beautiful. Gradually, the rules and boundaries they agreed on fall along the wayside….

“He started calling me ‘Katie’ a few weeks ago and every time he uses that nickname, I have to remember to breathe. His fingers brush the crown back into place, a barely-there touch that sends heat down my spine.”

There is never a dull moment. Once I started reading, I could not put this book down! At times you will laugh, you will cry, get angry and frustrated - most of all, you will love the twists! This book will charm “the pants off you” and leave you going back for more. Most of all, this story will make you smile. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story. This is a lovely book that will keep you hooked! It has fun, laughs, intrigue, twists that you do not expect, and physical attraction. You will fall in love with Cam and Katie. From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story! This book will not disappoint! Highly recommended 😊

[Alexandra Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Read - Releases 3/21/26
✨Summary✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.75
HEA: Yes, no 3rd act breakup
POV: dual
Tropes: Friends to Lovers, FWB, Small Town, Single Mom, Baseball Coach/ Librarian, Marriage of Convenience, Found Family

Kate is a single mom and librarian just trying to keep her head above water. Cam is the high school baseball coach who also coaches Kate’s daughter’s T-ball team. They’ve been friends for years, but one night something shifts. What starts as a one night situation turns into a friends with benefits arrangement…except Cam falls hard. When Kate’s ex suddenly starts causing trouble, Cam convinces her to enter into a marriage of convenience…and we all know how that usually goes. Can Cam convince Kate to give him forever instead of just a few months.

I loved Cam. He has a bit of a dirty mouth, but he’s also genuinely a good guy. He cares deeply about both Kate and her daughter and has for a long time. He tries to keep things casual because he believes Kate can’t or won’t want more. Kate does want more, but she’s been burned before and her daughter will always be her first priority. She’s an incredible mom who has sacrificed a lot to give her daughter a stable life.

They had great chemistry and some very fun spicy scenes. I loved how on their first night together Cam asked what her record number of orgasms was and vowed to beat it. There’s also a memorable scene in the fantasy section of the library involving a lollipop…

The town and secondary characters are part of what makes this series so enjoyable. They show up for Kate when she needs them without her even having to ask.

I do feel that the situation with Kate’s ex felt a little unresolved. He had been absent for years and then suddenly shows up with a dramatic change of heart. His behavior almost felt like he was being pushed into it. I found myself wondering if it was actually more about pressure from his new wife than his own decisions. I would have liked that storyline to be explored a bit more.

Overall, this was still a great read and I enjoyed it even more than the first book. Cam and Kate were a great couple, and the story had a lot of heart. There were a few minor consistency issues, but nothing that took away from the overall experience. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.

Thank you to The Smuthood and Jocelyn Jacobs for the opportunity to read this ARC

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Prescott is a single mom doing everything on her own: raising her daughter, running the library, and trying to keep her life steady in a town where everyone seems to know everyone’s business. Dating isn’t even on her radar, until one tequila-filled night leads to a friends-with-benefits arrangement with Cameron Wells, the town’s high school baseball coach. What starts as something simple quickly turns into something neither of them planned for.

And Cameron Wells?
This man doesn’t just wave green flags — he is the entire field.

Cameron Wells is the definition of a golden retriever MMC, but in the most grounded, realistic way. He doesn’t rely on big gestures or dramatic moments—he just shows up. He’s steady, patient, and quietly supportive, especially when Kate’s life starts to unravel. The way he slowly becomes part of her world, and especially the bond he builds with Evie, completely melted my heart. Watching him fall first, and hard, was one of my favorite parts of the story.

And Evie? She absolutely steals the show. Every scene with her added warmth, humor, and so much heart. Her relationship with Cam felt natural and genuine, and those small moments between the three of them really made this story shine.

I also loved the small-town setting and the found family vibes. The Cedar Falls rumor mill, supportive friends, and community atmosphere added so much charm without ever overshadowing the emotional core of the story.

The romance itself is gentle but deeply emotional. This isn’t a love story built on chaos. It’s built on patience, trust, and learning to let someone in. Kate’s journey of learning she doesn’t have to carry everything alone felt authentic, and Cam’s quiet presence beside her made their connection even more meaningful.

The chemistry is there from the start, and while the spice kicks off early, it’s the emotional connection that really carries this story. Their relationship develops in a way that feels natural, heartfelt, and completely earned.

Hometown Home Run is a soft, comforting, and emotionally satisfying romance about second chances, found family, and the kind of love that shows up quietly and stays. If you love small-town sports romances with single moms, golden retriever heroes, and heartwarming family dynamics, this one is definitely worth the read. ⚾️💛

[Brea · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️ | 2🌶️ | ⚾️ Certified small-town emotional damage (the good kind)
I went into Hometown Home Run thinking I was here for a cute baseball romance… and instead I got emotionally tackled by a golden retriever of a man and a four-year-old scene-stealer with a dinosaur.
I am unwell.
First of all—CAMERON. WELLS.
This man is not just green flags.
He is the entire damn field.
He doesn’t grand gesture. He doesn’t dominate the room.
He just… shows up.
Quietly. Consistently. Devastatingly.
And somehow that hits harder than every morally grey, touch-her-and-die man I’ve ever loved.
(Do I still want those men? Yes.
Did Cam make me question my entire personality? Also yes.)
The writing here is what really got me. The relationship between Kate and Cam isn’t built on chaos—it’s built on presence. On patience. On the kind of love that doesn’t burn the world down… it stands beside you while you’re going through it.
And honestly? That might be more dangerous.
Kate is a single mom doing everything on her own, gripping control like her life depends on it—because it kind of does. Watching her slowly unravel those walls, not because she’s forced to but because she finally feels safe enough to, was so well done.
And Cam?
He never tries to fix her.
He just… stays.
SIR. THAT IS WORSE. 🫠
Now let’s talk about the real main character:
Evie.
That child owns this book.
Every line out of her mouth? Gold.
Every scene? Stolen.
Every emotional moment? Amplified.
“Matilda! Coach Wells is coming! We need to look our best!”
— I would die for her, no questions asked.
Tropes? Oh she delivered: ⚾️ Single Mom
⚾️ Friends with Benefits → Marriage of Convenience
⚾️ He Falls First (and HARD)
⚾️ Small Town Gossip Olympics
⚾️ Found Family
⚾️ NO third act breakup (bless)
The chemistry? Immediate.
The banter? Effortless.
The spice? Starts early and knows exactly what it’s doing.
My only complaint? I wanted more baseball—but honestly, I was too busy being emotionally compromised to care for long.
This book is soft without being boring, emotional without being exhausting, and swoony in a way that sneaks up on you and then refuses to let go.
It’s not loud love.
It’s steady love.
And apparently… that’s my new weakness.
Thank you to Jocelyn Jacobs & the Smuthood for the ARC—
and for personally attacking my preference for toxic men. 🖤

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hometown Home Run is EVERYTHING I love about small-town romance wrapped up in one swoony, messy, heart-tugging package. You’ve got single mom chaos, a cinnamon-roll-but-still-hot baseball coach, a friends-with-benefits situation that was never going to stay casual (we all knew it, they knew it, the whole town probably knew it), and the kind of emotional payoff that hits you right in the chest.

Kate?? I adored her. She’s juggling SO much and you can feel the weight of it in every decision she makes. She’s strong but tired, guarded but soft underneath, and watching her slowly let Cam in was like watching someone thaw after a long winter. And her daughter?? Stop. I was gone. Completely gone. The way Cam connects with her melted me into a puddle.

And CAMERON WELLS. SIR. This man is patient, steady, caring in that quiet, consistent way that sneaks up on you and suddenly you’re like oh no I’m in love with him too. He doesn’t push, he doesn’t play games, he just shows up. Over and over. The emotional intelligence?? The way he respects Kate’s pace but makes it very clear he’s all in?? I am feral.

Their chemistry is 🔥 but it’s not just heat for the sake of it, it’s layered with comfort and trust and this underlying ache that makes every moment feel bigger. What starts as “just fun” quickly turns into “oh this is dangerous because it actually matters” and I ate that up with a spoon.

Also can we talk about the small-town vibes?? The gossip, the community, Gordy’s tequila-fueled chaos, the way everyone is just a little too involved in everyone else’s business. It felt so lived-in and real, like you could step right into Cedar Falls and immediately hear whispers about Kate and Cam.

And THAT emotional curveball?? I will not spoil it but WOW. The stakes get real, real fast and suddenly this isn’t just about feelings, it’s about choices and risks and what “pretend” even means when your heart is fully involved.

I laughed, I swooned, I got a little teary, and by the end I was just sitting there like… yep, that’s going on my favourites shelf forever.

If you love:
• single mom romances
• soft-but-strong heroines
• the world’s most lovable coach
• slow emotional burn with spicy payoff
• found family vibes

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am such a sucker for a small-town vibe where the nosy neighbors actually show up for you at the drop of a hat, and Hometown Home Run by Jocelyn Jacobs nailed that feeling for me. I have been looking forward to this one since finishing book one, and this was a total home run for me.

The story follows Kate, who is an incredibly strong single-mom librarian just trying to keep her head above water. She has built these walls up, brick by brick, to protect her daughter, Evie, and she’s honestly a little too proud to ask for help, which I think we can sometimes relate to.

Then there’s Cam, the baseball coach. Who’s got a bit of a naughty side and a 'dirty mouth.' I adored him because, underneath all that talk, he’s just an all-around, genuinely good guy. He is just so patient when Kate is spiraling and completely unapologetic about caring in a way that makes your chest ache. And seeing him with Evie, the way she totally wins him over before he can even catch his breath is just so priceless.

Cam and Kate have been friends for years. But one night, when at the local bar, and after one too many tequila shots, everything changes. What starts off as a 'no-strings-attached' fling turns into him falling hard.

When Kate’s ex suddenly shows up after five years, Cam offers a solution that blurs every line: a marriage of convenience. Watching them realize that they are truly meant for each other was half the fun; they just slide into each other's lives, filling every gap as if they had always belonged there.

And for the spice... The chemistry is fantastic! There is a scene in the fantasy section of the library... well, you’ll just have to read it for yourself! 😉

What really sold it for me, though, is how they hit challenges together. Instead of running when things get tough, they fight for each other and for their little family. If you want a feel-good story that’ll have you ignoring your responsibilities for the day, then this book is for you!

Hometown Home Run drops on March 19th, so make sure you add it to your TBR.

A Huge thank you to Jocelyn Jacobs and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read this ARC! I’m so grateful to have been part of the early reader team for Cam and Kate’s story. ❤️

[Abhijeet Kumar · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The town pretends it’s not paying attention, but the second I grab that takeout bag, at least three people know exactly where I’m going. They’ll talk about it later with that nosy affection this place is built on.”

Hometown Home Run by Jocelyn Jacobs is a small-town contemporary romance set in Cedar Falls. I started it as an ARC read, and I was glad to be a part of the wholesome vibe.

The story revolves around Katie, a single mother and librarian, and Cam, a local baseball coach. Katie is building her independent life with her little girl, Evie, and Cam... well, he’s head over heels in love with Katie.

It’s undeniably swoony, with full of butterflies-in-your-stomach moments between Katie and Cam. Cam is a total green flag, genuinely invested in both Kate and her daughter. I couldn’t stop smiling at his cheesy flirting at the cafe, where the whole town knew they were bf-gf (thanks to Haddie’s Facebook announcement).

Haddie was a lovely side character, a true matchmaker, and Cedar Falls felt like a homely town to be in. Cam & Katie’s friends were also wholesome. All these people added to the overall cosy vibe of the book.

Jocelyn really knows how to write an adorable, heartwarming love story. She maintained a balance between steamy romance and emotional scenes, with some light, playful moments sprinkled in. It was quite spicy. Not heavy, though.

Hometown Home Run is a story that keeps you smiling. It’s about trust, emotional healing and letting yourself be loved again. Coach Cam Wells surely raised the bar for perfect men a little too high.

But then, I didn’t quite like the story’s “climax.” I was expecting a major conflict at the end. There was a sense of looming tension throughout the book, suggesting a dramatic climax. But that drama felt rushed. It could have been a lot better.

And maybe because I haven’t read Book 1 of the series, the initial relationship of Cam and Katie felt a bit hurried. I was like, “Easy there, tiger!” Maybe it’s just me.

I loved Hometown Home Run, nevertheless. It’s suitable for lovers of contemporary romance. And perfect if you’re in the mood for something cute, giggly and easy-going.

[Elizabeth Mazzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series and it was a feel good book. This book introduces you to Cam and Katie and they are friends from a small town. Cam is the baseball coach and Katie is the town librarian. Katie also has a 4 year old daughter. Katie and Cam are friends and they have the same friends in common. While they are friends, the town sees them as two people that like each other but don’t know how to go about it. Then one day, Katie gets a letter saying that she is being taken to court by her daughter’s dad for custody, and she panics. She tells her friends about this and Cam comes up with a solution. She marries him and they have an agreement that this is to help her keep her daughter full time. While this is a great idea, they soon start falling for each other and she learns what it is really like to be loved and well cared for. Cam is there for everything for both her and her daughter. While this happening you can see what a true guy he is. He steps in, helps her with everything that she could need and doing small things for her. While this started off as a friend helping friend thing, it soon turns into something more. While the town knows this is happening, it takes them a little longer. When it comes down to everything they both know that this is for real and there is no going back. You meet in this story their friends, and the meddling town busybody who just happens to have a knack of knowing everything and anything. She also predicts that they are the couple of year!
There was not a thing that I did not like about this story. You are brought into their story, you are there as they learn that they are meant to be with each other, there for the hard moments (a trip to the ER), the funny moments, (think waterfall picnic…..) and one crazy sees everything neighbor who just happens to save the day! You are going to love this story, Cam and Katie… I really hope you can fall in love with this small town romance like I did.

[Kate Bellamy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating
4.75/5
spice
2.5/5
If you are looking for a Single mom romance with tension and spice that will have you ignoring your responsibilities for the day, this is the book for you. Home Town Homerun is book 2 in the Hearts on the Sideline series by Jocelyn Jacobs. This is an interconnecting standalone ( I highly recommend reading book 1 before book 2). Firstly, I would like to thank the smuthood and Jocelyn Jacobs for an arc. Importantly , there may be some triggering content, so please check the trigger/ content warnings before reading.

This story is beautifully written and truly shows the struggles of being a single parent. The plot had me hooked from the start; it's a balanced mix of plot- and character-driven elements. Each component and trope fits together perfectly, adding depth to both the story and the characters. Although it continues directly from book 1, I never felt lost or as if I was coming in midway, and it sets up book 3 perfectly. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and hope you pick it up on release day.

Cam and Kate's relationship portrayed the struggles of building trust and connection after being single parents. From the start, you could see that both characters have feelings for each other, though they begin as friends with benefits. Cam was written so well; he’s such a supportive person and the one Kate needed. His coaching scenes with Kate's daughter were so cute and made me fall in love with him so much. I loved how he would be the person who would show up for Kate when she needed him. Kate's character was my favourite. I loved seeing her strength and how she, over time, lowered her walls. I loved seeing her talk about the struggles and explain to Cam what she feels when certain occurrences occur. Overall, I loved these characters and their story. I hope you all pick this up on release day.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a romance where the love story doesn’t need to be torn apart to prove its strength. Hometown Home Run delivers exactly that.

Kate is a single mother who has spent years doing everything on her own. She’s strong, capable, and fiercely protective of her daughter, Evie. Letting someone in isn’t just difficult for her, it feels almost impossible. That’s what made her journey so compelling.

Enter Cam.

What starts as something casual quickly reveals itself to be anything but. Cam’s feelings are steady, patient, and unwavering. He doesn’t try to bulldoze his way into Kate’s life. Instead, he shows up consistently, proving through actions that he’s there for both her and Evie.

And that’s what makes this story stand out.

There’s no unnecessary drama or forced separation. Instead, the tension comes from emotional growth, trust, and learning how to build something real together. Even when challenges arise, they face them as a team. That choice felt refreshing and deeply satisfying.

Evie was also a highlight of the story. Her relationship with Cam added an extra layer of warmth and made the stakes feel even more meaningful. Their dynamic helped reinforce the idea that this wasn’t just about romance, but about building a family.

The small-town setting and returning characters added to the cozy, connected feel of the book. It’s always a treat to revisit familiar faces and see their lives continue alongside the new story.

Overall, this was a heartwarming, engaging read with strong emotional beats and characters that were easy to root for.

If you enjoy single parent romances, emotionally available male leads, and stories where love is built through consistency and care, this one is definitely worth picking up.

Thank you to the Jocelyn and Smuthood PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Janelle Sequin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hometown Home Run Review ⚾️❤️

This book didn’t just pull on my heartstrings—it wrapped itself around my heart and refused to let go.

Hometown Home Run is the kind of story that feels soft and tender in the most powerful way. Kate’s journey absolutely wrecked me. She’s carrying so much—being a mom, holding everything together, protecting her heart—and you can feel the weight of it in every decision she makes. Watching her slowly let someone in again felt so raw, so real… and so incredibly beautiful.

And Cameron… he’s not just swoony—he’s safe. The kind of man who doesn’t just say he cares, he shows it in the quietest, most meaningful ways. He’s patient when Kate feels like she’s too much, steady when her world feels unsteady, and so full of love it practically pours off the page. The way he loves her—and her daughter—completely, without hesitation? I melted. I actually melted.

What starts as something simple, something with rules and boundaries, slowly turns into something neither of them can deny. And it’s not loud or rushed—it’s soft, aching, and full of those little moments that mean everything. The kind of love that builds in glances, in comfort, in choosing each other over and over again.

And when life throws its challenges their way… it hits hard. Because by then, you feel how much they have to lose. You’re rooting for them, aching for them, hoping they choose love even when it’s terrifying.

This story is full of warmth, healing, and the kind of love that doesn’t just sweep you off your feet—it holds you steady when you need it most.

✨ This one is for anyone who believes in second chances, quiet love, and the magic of someone choosing you—completely and without fear.

[Heidi N · Rating 4 out of 5]

Are you looking for a feel-good story right out of the dugout? One that will have you setting your expectations of how a man with an amazing heart, is there during the good times and the hard times, willing to be a constant in your life, willing to put you and your daughter first above all else? If you said yes to all of those, let me introduce you to the Cedar Falls T-Ball and baseball coach, Cam Wells.

This man will set your expectations up to such a high standard from the first time you are introduced to him. His selfishness is unmatched. And the way that she shows his love for Katie and Evie will make your heart swoon!

And Katie is just a single mother who is doing the best she can. Does she have a support system, friends, family, and even her small-town community who would be willing to help in at the drop of a hat, you betcha! All she has to do is ask but is too prideful to ask for help! But when she feels like she has to do everything on her own, especially when Evie’s father tries to steps back into the picture after abandoning them almost 5 years ago. Kate is soon to realize, she doesn’t have to bear the weight of it all. She can seek the comfort from the one man she didn’t expect or realize would. She never expected him to stand up for her and her daughter. She never expected to fall in love with him.

Hometown Home Run was such a feel-good story from the beginning. From friends with benefits, to becoming a marriage of convenience, to falling in love when they tried so hard not to. Hometown Home Run was a homerun in my book (literally).

I received this book as an ARC and willingly giving my review.

[Kristina L. | bookinandcookintx · Rating 5 out of 5]

-He wears a Gold chain
-Baseball Coach/Librarian/Single Mom
-He falls first and hard
-FWB turned Marriage of Convenience
-Small Town Vibes

Spice kicks in at, oh, like 1.3678% in, and honestly? I was immediately obsessed. Kate and Cam immediately had my heart. Cam is the blueprint for a perfect MMC. Steady, soft, protective without being overbearing ... just pure green-flag energy. One of my favorite things about him was how patient he was with Kate. He always met her exactly where she was. He knew she was a single mom juggling a lot with little Evie, and he never swooped in like he needed to “fix” their lives. He just wanted to help lighten the load, and to him, Kate was already the strongest person he knew. Swwwwwooooon!

And Kate...Omgosh! I adore her. She is a Librarian. She loves her daughter fiercely, but when life started spiraling, asking for help was not her strong suit. Watching her let people in (especially Cam) made me feel so gooey inside. Seeing him slowly break through her walls and bring a sense of calm into her chaos was honestly beautiful.

Hometown Home Run is such a warm, cozy small‑town romance that balances humor, heart, and emotional depth. Kate feels so real...a single mom trying to do it all while living in a small town that always has an opinion. And Cam slips into her and Evie’s world with so much intention. Their friends‑with‑benefits setup quietly grows into something deeper as trust builds, and it just works.

It’s tender. It’s charming. It’s heartfelt. This series just keeps getting better and better. I cannot wait for whatever comes next!!

Thanks to Jocelyn Jacobs for the early read in exchange for honest feedback!

[Brittany · Rating 3 out of 5]

As much as I wanted to love Hometown Home Run, it just didn’t hit the way I hoped it would, and I hate saying that because I absolutely loved book one in the Hearts on the Sidelines series.

This second book follows Kate, a single mother to Evie, who is suddenly served with custody papers from Evie’s absentee father. Cam is the high school baseball coach and also Evie’s T-ball coach, and he currently has a friends-with-benefits situation with Kate. When Cam sees how stressed Kate is about not having the “perfect” family image for court, he offers to marry her.

This is where the story started to fall apart a bit for me and ultimately why I gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars. There were some inconsistencies that pulled me out of the story. At times it seemed like Cam was already living with Kate, but then there were multiple moments where she would call him over as if he didn’t live there. It left me a little confused about their actual living situation.

I also really felt for Kate during the custody situation. My mother was a single parent, and even though my father saw us frequently, she handled most of the day-to-day responsibilities. Anytime she had to go to court over custody, it tore her apart because she truly lived for my siblings and our happiness. That part of the story felt very real to me.

Even though this is book two in the series, I do think it could be read as a standalone. One thing I did really enjoy was Cam’s character. He definitely falls first and has such a big heart when it comes to both Kate and Evie.

Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I’m really hoping book three follows Kinsey!

[Sierra]

⭐️Arc Review⭐️

Hometown Home Run
Hearts on the sidelines Book 2
Available 03.19

⚾️Small Town Romance
📚Single Mom Librarian x Baseball Coach
⚾️FWB turned Marriage of Convenience
📚He Falls First

Small town chaos, nosy neighbors, and a hot baseball coach who drops everything to help an overwhelmed single mom just trying to keep it all together… yes please sign me up! ⚾️

Kate, a busy single mom and librarian, starts a no-strings-attached fling with Cameron, the local baseball coach. ⚾📚But when her absent ex suddenly wants joint custody, Cam proposes a fake relationship to help her look more stable in court. What starts as pretend quickly gets messy… because their feelings might be way too real. ❤️😅

These two so obviously are meant for each other, and watching them figure it out is half the fun. 😉 They slide into each other’s lives effortlessly, filling every little gap like they’ve always belonged there. I loved how everyone in the town saw the sparks before they did and the “news” reports were hilarious! And the best part? No dramatic breakup. They hit challenges, sure, but instead of running, they fight for each other and for their little family. Beautiful ❤️

I loved the cozy small town vibes, this one is low angst, super bingeable, and a really quick read. My only minor gripe is that a few storyline gaps had me scratching my head a bit, but overall it was a really solid, feel good read. Definitely one to add to the tbr when you’re searching for a lighter read.

Huge thanks to Smuthood & author for the arc. ⚾️📚

[Samantha Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy Level:🌶️🌶️🌶️

Here’s what to expect:
⚾️Small Town
⚾️Friends with Benefits
⚾️Marriage of Convenience
⚾️Single Mom X Baseball Coach
⚾️He Steps Up

If you are looking for a small-town romance where a single mom and the local baseball coach go from FWB to a marriage of convenience that looks more like something more, this is the one!

Kate (FMC) is a single mom raising her daughter, while being the town librarian, she feels like she has a thousand things going on at once and can barely catch her breath. Cameron “Cam” (MMC) is the local baseball coach and Kate’s daughter's Little League coach. What started as a one-night stand turned into an FWB situation until Cam takes things to the next level. Cam is caring, calm, and willing to wait for Kate’s walls to fall. He is taken with not only Kate but also her daughter; he knows they are a package deal. When Kate needs help proving she has a stable home for her daughter and that she is not doing everything alone, Cam jumps at the opportunity to help Kate and spend more time with her. He makes a crazy suggestion - a quick marriage that will be a way to prove she has support, but it's not supposed to be a forever thing. The more time they spend together, the further they both fall, and soon what was a one-time thing is looking more like a forever situation. The characters were well-written and super relatable. I loved the relationship they built and the support they have from the side characters.

**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**

[Ashley Fields · Rating 5 out of 5]

CAMERON. 👏🏻 WELLS. 👏🏻 If you like your MMC with green flags all around - Cam is the one for you. I have to start there, because I absolutely fell in love with him throughout this book. 😍

The book starts off with our FMC Kate (a busy single mom librarian) and Cameron (a baseball coach) already having a bit of a flirty friendship. You can feel that they're super comfortable with each other, and the banter is adorable. Cam definitely wants more, but Kate is super independent and doesn't want to rely on anyone and is avoiding relationships. They decide to take the plunge into FWB territory, and from there, the chemistry EXPLODES. And Coach Cam's dirty mouth.. oof. 🥵

Kate's ex shows up with his new wife after 5 years of basically no contact, wanting custody of their daughter, Evie. In order to help Kate's odds of winning the custody case, Coach Cam proposes... a marriage of convenience. I LOVE THIS TROPE, hahaha. And of course, green flag that he is, Cam steps up in all the ways for Kate and Evie. He's sweet, consistent, and supportive without being overbearing. AND it gives him the perfect opportunity to show Kate how perfect they are together. 😍

This is book two in the series, and while I 100% recommend reading book one because it's also terrific - this could be read as a standalone. It was SUCH a sweet book while also still having plenty of spice - and the small town vibe was captured perfectly with all the gossip and drama. Plus, no OWD/OMD and no third act breakup. 🖤

[Amoné · Rating 5 out of 5]

- arc review -
Hometown Home Run by Jocelyn Jacobs - Hearts on the Sidelines series
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶

Friends to Lovers
FWB
Small Town
Single Mom
Baseball Coach/ Librarian
Marriage of Convenience
Found Family

They’ve been friends for years, but one night something shifts...

I adored Cam; he has a bit of a naughty side, yet he’s genuinely a good man. He cares deeply for both Kate and her daughter, and he has for quite some time. He tries to keep things light because he thinks Kate can’t or won’t desire more. However, Kate does want more, but she’s been hurt in the past, and her daughter will always come first. She’s an amazing mom who has given up a lot to provide her daughter with a stable life.

𝑯𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒋𝒂𝒘 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒍𝒂𝒑𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒂𝒔𝒔. “𝑴𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒕, 𝑴𝒓𝒔. 𝑾𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒔.”

Their chemistry was fantastic, and there were some really enjoyable spicy moments. I appreciated how patient he was with her, knowing when she needed someone to encourage her or simply hold her when life became overwhelming. The town and the supporting characters contribute significantly to the charm of this series. They rally around Kate when she needs them, often without her even having to ask.

𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒏 𝑿 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕. “𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕.” “𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒉, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆.”

This was my first experience with Jocelyn Jacobs, and I can honestly say that I will definitely be exploring her other works! 🌼✨️

Thank you to @JocelynJacobs.author and @thesmuthood for the chance to read this beautiful ARC.

[Dani (dtieds_allbookedup) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.25/5

Thanks to @lunaliterary.management and @jocelynjacobs.author  for the #gifted copy of this book.

My Thoughts: Being back in Cedar Falls was wonderful—especially with Kate and Cam this time around. After the little bread crumbs that were scattered throughout book 1, I could not wait to see these two together. 👀💞

Kate is such a strong, independent, and selfless mother. 💪💖 It was hard to see her go through all the tough situations her ex, Daniel, was putting her through regarding the custody of her daughter, Evie. However, I love that by the end of the book, Kate realized the support system she has around her in their small town that will step up to bat for her and Evie in every situation. ⚾

Cam, Cam, Cam… this man never stood a chance—he was gone for Kate from page one. 😍🔥 Book boyfriend goals right here. This man jumped up to the plate, ready to be the man Kate needed in every aspect of her life. He was swoony in all the right ways, and it didn't hurt that he could fill out baseball pants well, too. 😏

Finally, the found family in this book is strong. 🫶 I love that they surround each other with support and live life together. Although this could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading book 1 because it was also exceptionally good and sets up everything between Cam and Kate perfectly.

What You'll Find:
🏡Small Town
🔥Friends with Benefits
💍Marriage of Convenience
👩‍👧Single Mom
⚾Baseball Coach
💪💖He Steps Up
💕✨HEA

[Vania · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever since Kate Prescott found out she was pregnant - and the father of her child didn't want anything to do with them - it's been her and Evie against the world. Working at the library of Cedar Falls, she takes care of everything for her little girl, and she doesn't have time for anything complicated. That's why a friends with benefits arrangement with the local baseball coach is perfect for her, as long as Cam Wells can handle simple, no strings attached, uncomplicated sex. But as their dalliance goes on, Cam realizes that he doesn't want simple. He doesn't want uncomplicated; he wants Kate, and he wants to take care of her and take care of Evie. That's why, when Evie's father comes back into the picture demanding custody, he suggests that he and Kate get married. Just for a while. Just to look good for the judge. At least that's what he tells her, and that's what she believes.

If I were to describe this book in one word, I'd say "wholesome." Yes, it's spicy, but there's so much heart in it. Cam knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after it, all while respecting Kate's independence and without steamrolling her. He understands her, understands what she needs, and he's determined to be the one to give it to her. Kate is so used to being the caretaker, the mother, the responsible one, that she finds it hard to let that go, and that's where most of the conflict comes from, which lent an air of reality to the story. We are all, to some extent, afraid to let go, be vulnerable, trust, and depend on another person, after all, and that conflict was masterfully done with Kate. Cam's relationship with Evie was great to see as well, and the fact that he was in love with Kate, yes, but he also fell in love with her daughter.

If you're in the mood for a well-written, low stakes, wholesome read with some spice, I'd say you found your book. Hometown Home Run is the second book in the Hearts on the Sidelines series, and while reading the first isn't necessary for your understanding and enjoyment of this one, I totally recommend it too.

Thank you Jocelyn Jacobs and Luna Literary for the early copy of this book.

[Tai · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 STARS!

Anyone who really knows me will tell you how much I love a good baseball romance. Although baseball wasn't the big plot background as in other stories, I still love how it was woven into this story. We love a baseball coach who also volunteers his time to coach T-Ball :) Pair that with him being obsessed with his longtime friend who also happens to be a single mom/librarian with a fear of letting people in? SOLD.

There is a bit of instalove here which I know is not everyone's cup of tea, so if that's not your thing be warned. But this is a sweet story with real life situations that seemed authentic and honestly quite relatable (for me personally as a single mom with a kid who loved baseball). Little Evie steals the show in so many moments and I love her dialogue.

Coach Wells is solid, steady, and honestly has all the green flags. Who wouldn't want a guy who just wants to take care of you and your child. Bonus: Baseball coach, tall, great body, cooks, and has a filthy mouth. Thank you Jocelyn ;)

Swoonworthy Quote:
"I'm not asking you to need me. I just... I want you to know I'm here"

Tropes I Loved:
- Single Mom
- Baseball Coach
- Small Town
- Friends with Benefits
- He Steps Up

Thanks to Luna Literary and the author for an eARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and review!

[booklover.mall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy Cow ! What do I even say !? Okay first I would thank Jocelyn Jacobs for giving me the opportunity to read Hometown Home Run!!! I was absolutely so excited like super excited to read Hometown Home Run after I read Hometown Touchdown.

Like I said holy cow why I do I even say about this book?! That it came in HOT like sizzling HOT!, right from the beginning I knew this book was going to ruin in ! And it sure did that. This book hit home in so many ways like I felt she was literally talking about me! Like dang how did you know!

Anyways Hometown Home Run will have you full of emotions and energy, it will having you want a small town with noise people and the best of friends that a person can ask for and don’t for get one HOT DADDY baseball coach! Fanning myself just thinking about Daddy Wells.

I adored Kate she is one tough and resilient woman that will doing anything and everything for her baby. She will go to the end of the earth before she will let anyone help and will not anyone see weakness but that is until Mr. Cam.

Cam phew what a man! Baseball coach all around good guy and one night turned his whole world upside down and now he can’t see himself without his Kate and Evie. He will stand by her side even when she pushes him away.

Definitely a book that I will pick up and read again !