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Next Best Swing
Golf just got a whole lot hotter...
Not so long ago, Brookes Devereaux was the world number one golfer. Now, fresh out of rehab, his comeback is not going quite according to plan, and he's seriously starting to worry that the old Brookes is gone for good, and what's left is nothing more than a 32-year-old washed-up has-been.
When faced with the real threat of losing his tour card, Brookes and his management team are left scrambling. But, with a littler help from his meddling 80-year-old bestie, Brookes decides that Poppy Crawford, the curvy cart girl with endless sunshine and spunk, might just be what he needs to help him improve his image.
Brookes and Poppy come to an arrange; she agrees to be his fake girlfriend for the summer, and he'll pay her enough money that she'll finally be able to get out of her ex-boyfriend's apartment. It's the perfect deal; Brookes isn't at all interested in her or a relationship, and Poppy needs money to help turn her small business into a dream career.
But when Poppy helps Brookes find himself again, and Brookes helps Poppy fight the demons from her past that she's kept hidden from everyone, the two grow closer. And when the lines between real and fake, and right and wrong begin to blur, Brookes finds himself wondering if what he didn't want, might be exactly what he needs.
Brookes is hoping to find himself again, and reclaim his place at the top; what is wasn't prepared for was finding more than just his Next Best Swing...
Not so long ago, Brookes Devereaux was the world number one golfer. Now, fresh out of rehab, his comeback is not going quite according to plan, and he's seriously starting to worry that the old Brookes is gone for good, and what's left is nothing more than a 32-year-old washed-up has-been.
When faced with the real threat of losing his tour card, Brookes and his management team are left scrambling. But, with a littler help from his meddling 80-year-old bestie, Brookes decides that Poppy Crawford, the curvy cart girl with endless sunshine and spunk, might just be what he needs to help him improve his image.
Brookes and Poppy come to an arrange; she agrees to be his fake girlfriend for the summer, and he'll pay her enough money that she'll finally be able to get out of her ex-boyfriend's apartment. It's the perfect deal; Brookes isn't at all interested in her or a relationship, and Poppy needs money to help turn her small business into a dream career.
But when Poppy helps Brookes find himself again, and Brookes helps Poppy fight the demons from her past that she's kept hidden from everyone, the two grow closer. And when the lines between real and fake, and right and wrong begin to blur, Brookes finds himself wondering if what he didn't want, might be exactly what he needs.
Brookes is hoping to find himself again, and reclaim his place at the top; what is wasn't prepared for was finding more than just his Next Best Swing...
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2026
About the author
Shann McPherson
13 books248 followersShann McPherson has been writing contemporary romance fiction for as long as she can remember, and she has no plans on stopping any time soon.
Living in sunny Queensland, Australia, when she isn't dreaming up your next book boyfriend, Shann enjoys making memories with her husband and boisterous son, drinking wine and the occasional beer, and singing completely off-key to Taylor Swift.
Living in sunny Queensland, Australia, when she isn't dreaming up your next book boyfriend, Shann enjoys making memories with her husband and boisterous son, drinking wine and the occasional beer, and singing completely off-key to Taylor Swift.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 251 reviews
April 22, 2026
suddenly i care about golf!!!
i was anxiously awaiting brookes’ story since his mention in happy ever after and this was everything i wanted and more.
brookes is a broken boy who’s trying to repair his reputation and his golf game after going to rehab and losing his mojo and all the good-will he had left. his agent proposed that a fake girlfriend might help his image but he dismissed that idea… until he ran into poppy, the curvy cart girl at his club, being cornered by a group of players and “girlfriend” happens to slip out while he’s protecting her.
my poor poppy )’: she had been dealt bad hand after bad hand and been hurt by people she trusted over and over but brookes is THE acts of service king. he took care of her and thought about how he could better take care of her over and over again all while being sinfully hot. a man who can do both ‼️
i’m so obsessed with them and their story
i was anxiously awaiting brookes’ story since his mention in happy ever after and this was everything i wanted and more.
brookes is a broken boy who’s trying to repair his reputation and his golf game after going to rehab and losing his mojo and all the good-will he had left. his agent proposed that a fake girlfriend might help his image but he dismissed that idea… until he ran into poppy, the curvy cart girl at his club, being cornered by a group of players and “girlfriend” happens to slip out while he’s protecting her.
my poor poppy )’: she had been dealt bad hand after bad hand and been hurt by people she trusted over and over but brookes is THE acts of service king. he took care of her and thought about how he could better take care of her over and over again all while being sinfully hot. a man who can do both ‼️
i’m so obsessed with them and their story
April 13, 2026
જ⁀➴ 3.75 stars (rounded up to 4)
Thank you to The Smuthood and Shann McPherson for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. Next Best Swing is out now!
🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺
Welp, there's a first time for everything, and I gotta say that not only this is my first time reading from Shann McPherson, but this is also the first sports romance I've read that featured golfing. While I'm not a golf fan in real life, I think this was the perfect read for this weekend because the Masters was today (at least at the time of writing this review), so what better way to (kind of) celebrate the event than with a golf romance?
Brookes Devereaux was at the top of his game in the golf world, holding many records and paving the way for himself as one of the youngest and best players of his time. Previously known for being the "wild child" of the golf scene, with his tattoos, penchant for swearing, and partying and drinking, he was the epitome of everything the golf scene doesn't want him to be. When he reaches an all-time-low that puts him in rehab, he's ready for a comeback, but the risk of him losing his tour guard has him and his management struggling to find a way to prove to the board that he's a squeaky-clean golfer now. Enter Poppy Crawford, cart girl at the country club he trains at. She has a past of her own, one that she's not healed from, but she needs money to grow her jewelry business. The two strike up a fake dating scheme that benefits them both: Brookes has a chance to show that he's changed, and Poppy gets a nice paycheck to grow her business on. Will it end up becoming more?
First off, we need to take a moment to appreciate the fact that this is a GOLF romance. A GOLF ROMANCE THAT I ACTUALLY ENJOYED. Listen, I feel like the average person (AKA me) who knows NOTHING about golf would find a golf romance boring. Like, really, I find golf in real life to be boring. (Sorry if any golf fans are reading this.) The way that I actually read this story and actually enjoyed it says a lot about how Shann McPherson managed to write a story well enough to hook me and suck me into the world of golfing and high society. Also, I love how more authors are branching out and giving other sports a moment in the spotlight, no matter how big or small an author they are. I find it absolutely refreshing to read a sports romance that doesn't revolve around what I personally call the "Big 3 sports" in the sports romance world: hockey, F1, and football.
I liked Brookes' unapologetic personality. I feel like, as an outsider looking into the golf world, I feel like so much of it is so prim and proper and too...orchestrated? I'm not sure if orchestrated is the right word to describe it, but it just seems too manicured and proper to me. I get that's how golf has always been, but Brookes defied every stereotype and expectation of what a general golfer carries himself, and that was so much fun to read about. Sure, his personality's gotten him in trouble, but he's managed to improve himself and had a lot of character growth as the story went on. The way he stood up for Poppy, the way he takes care of her, and the way that he made her feel loved and special even when she didn't feel that way was enough to make my frozen heart thaw a little.
I loved reading about Poppy getting out of her shell and becoming more confident in herself. She has a lot of background story that's important to understanding why she is the way that she is, and the story does touch upon it. I feel her pain on a more personal level because I've been through some of the same things she had, so I was able to relate to her a little more than the other FMCs I read about in the books I review. I love that she's confident in her body, and she surrounds herself with people who love her just the way she is. (The best example of this is Lori. I LOVED LORI! She seems so much fun, and she's giving like, super cool grandma vibes.)
The one critique I had about the story is that once the spice hits, that's essentially all we get for the rest of the book. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't care if a book is spicy or not for me to enjoy it, but I felt like the last like, 40-45% of the book was mostly spice with a little bit of plot, whereas everything leading up to it was all plot and the buildup. I felt like there was a specific serious sideplot/storyline that needed to be addressed and talked about in the story more. I felt it was almost forgotten about right up until the last couple of chapters, and it was resolved way too quickly and tied up in a neat little bow at the end. I remember reading the last chapter and being absolutely shocked that the main storyline would end the way that it did (I won't say anything beyond this other than the fact that it was giving thriller/suspense vibes), not realizing it was the last chapter, and then I swipe and next thing I know, it's the epilogue and a time jump.
^(With that said, please read the trigger warnings for this book; I'll include them at the end of this review. They may contain some spoilers for the plot, so read at your own risk.)
Overall, this was such a fun read and a great look into the world of golf that I probably never would've ventured into had I not read this. I'll be looking forward to seeing what else the author has in store and I'd pick up another book of hers to read in the future!
🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺
Trigger/content warnings (all provided by the author at the beginning of the story; it's quite a long list and it may contain spoilers for the story, so scroll further down if you want to see them all):
character in recovery for alcohol and substance abuse, discussion of alcohol, substance abuse, and addiction, mention of off-page sexual assault of a MC, mention of off-page manslaughter, mention of off-page emotional abuse by a parent, on-page attempted physical/sexual assault, on-page pregnancy of a side character, on-page violence, character with chronic illness, discussion of weight and body issues, explicit language, sexual content (I'd personally rate it at a 2.5-2.75, but I could argue it could even push a 3/5 depending on the reader and their personal experiences with reading spice in books)
Thank you to The Smuthood and Shann McPherson for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. Next Best Swing is out now!
"She doesn't need to look the part...she is the part; I just wish she could see that."
🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺
Welp, there's a first time for everything, and I gotta say that not only this is my first time reading from Shann McPherson, but this is also the first sports romance I've read that featured golfing. While I'm not a golf fan in real life, I think this was the perfect read for this weekend because the Masters was today (at least at the time of writing this review), so what better way to (kind of) celebrate the event than with a golf romance?
Brookes Devereaux was at the top of his game in the golf world, holding many records and paving the way for himself as one of the youngest and best players of his time. Previously known for being the "wild child" of the golf scene, with his tattoos, penchant for swearing, and partying and drinking, he was the epitome of everything the golf scene doesn't want him to be. When he reaches an all-time-low that puts him in rehab, he's ready for a comeback, but the risk of him losing his tour guard has him and his management struggling to find a way to prove to the board that he's a squeaky-clean golfer now. Enter Poppy Crawford, cart girl at the country club he trains at. She has a past of her own, one that she's not healed from, but she needs money to grow her jewelry business. The two strike up a fake dating scheme that benefits them both: Brookes has a chance to show that he's changed, and Poppy gets a nice paycheck to grow her business on. Will it end up becoming more?
First off, we need to take a moment to appreciate the fact that this is a GOLF romance. A GOLF ROMANCE THAT I ACTUALLY ENJOYED. Listen, I feel like the average person (AKA me) who knows NOTHING about golf would find a golf romance boring. Like, really, I find golf in real life to be boring. (Sorry if any golf fans are reading this.) The way that I actually read this story and actually enjoyed it says a lot about how Shann McPherson managed to write a story well enough to hook me and suck me into the world of golfing and high society. Also, I love how more authors are branching out and giving other sports a moment in the spotlight, no matter how big or small an author they are. I find it absolutely refreshing to read a sports romance that doesn't revolve around what I personally call the "Big 3 sports" in the sports romance world: hockey, F1, and football.
I liked Brookes' unapologetic personality. I feel like, as an outsider looking into the golf world, I feel like so much of it is so prim and proper and too...orchestrated? I'm not sure if orchestrated is the right word to describe it, but it just seems too manicured and proper to me. I get that's how golf has always been, but Brookes defied every stereotype and expectation of what a general golfer carries himself, and that was so much fun to read about. Sure, his personality's gotten him in trouble, but he's managed to improve himself and had a lot of character growth as the story went on. The way he stood up for Poppy, the way he takes care of her, and the way that he made her feel loved and special even when she didn't feel that way was enough to make my frozen heart thaw a little.
I loved reading about Poppy getting out of her shell and becoming more confident in herself. She has a lot of background story that's important to understanding why she is the way that she is, and the story does touch upon it. I feel her pain on a more personal level because I've been through some of the same things she had, so I was able to relate to her a little more than the other FMCs I read about in the books I review. I love that she's confident in her body, and she surrounds herself with people who love her just the way she is. (The best example of this is Lori. I LOVED LORI! She seems so much fun, and she's giving like, super cool grandma vibes.)
The one critique I had about the story is that once the spice hits, that's essentially all we get for the rest of the book. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't care if a book is spicy or not for me to enjoy it, but I felt like the last like, 40-45% of the book was mostly spice with a little bit of plot, whereas everything leading up to it was all plot and the buildup. I felt like there was a specific serious sideplot/storyline that needed to be addressed and talked about in the story more. I felt it was almost forgotten about right up until the last couple of chapters, and it was resolved way too quickly and tied up in a neat little bow at the end. I remember reading the last chapter and being absolutely shocked that the main storyline would end the way that it did (I won't say anything beyond this other than the fact that it was giving thriller/suspense vibes), not realizing it was the last chapter, and then I swipe and next thing I know, it's the epilogue and a time jump.
^(With that said, please read the trigger warnings for this book; I'll include them at the end of this review. They may contain some spoilers for the plot, so read at your own risk.)
Overall, this was such a fun read and a great look into the world of golf that I probably never would've ventured into had I not read this. I'll be looking forward to seeing what else the author has in store and I'd pick up another book of hers to read in the future!
🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺🏌⛳🛺
Trigger/content warnings (all provided by the author at the beginning of the story; it's quite a long list and it may contain spoilers for the story, so scroll further down if you want to see them all):
character in recovery for alcohol and substance abuse, discussion of alcohol, substance abuse, and addiction, mention of off-page sexual assault of a MC, mention of off-page manslaughter, mention of off-page emotional abuse by a parent, on-page attempted physical/sexual assault, on-page pregnancy of a side character, on-page violence, character with chronic illness, discussion of weight and body issues, explicit language, sexual content (I'd personally rate it at a 2.5-2.75, but I could argue it could even push a 3/5 depending on the reader and their personal experiences with reading spice in books)
April 12, 2026
5🌟, 3🌶️
Somehow this book made golf feel ridiculously addictive… and I’m not mad about it.
It completely pulled me in with that perfect mix of swoony, funny, and just enough emotional depth to keep it grounded. Brookes and Poppy are everything together. He’s all grumpy walls and sharp edges, and she’s pure sunshine, softening him without even trying. And the way he’s only soft for her? Yeah… I melted a little.
The fake dating sets things in motion, but it doesn’t take long before it starts feeling very real. Their banter is so easy and natural, the chemistry never lets up, and the tension? You’ll feel it. And listen, the spice absolutely delivers while still letting their emotional connection take the lead. What I loved most is how steady their relationship feels. No over-the-top drama, just two people finding comfort, safety, and something real in each other. Poppy is confident and so easy to love, and watching Brookes go from guarded to completely gone for her was so satisfying.
This story had heart, heat, and really well-done character growth. The side characters added so much warmth, and the whole thing was just so easy to fall into. It’s one of those books where you tell yourself one more chapter and suddenly it’s been hours.
I’m still smiling thinking about them.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Shann McPherson & The Smuthood for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
Somehow this book made golf feel ridiculously addictive… and I’m not mad about it.
It completely pulled me in with that perfect mix of swoony, funny, and just enough emotional depth to keep it grounded. Brookes and Poppy are everything together. He’s all grumpy walls and sharp edges, and she’s pure sunshine, softening him without even trying. And the way he’s only soft for her? Yeah… I melted a little.
The fake dating sets things in motion, but it doesn’t take long before it starts feeling very real. Their banter is so easy and natural, the chemistry never lets up, and the tension? You’ll feel it. And listen, the spice absolutely delivers while still letting their emotional connection take the lead. What I loved most is how steady their relationship feels. No over-the-top drama, just two people finding comfort, safety, and something real in each other. Poppy is confident and so easy to love, and watching Brookes go from guarded to completely gone for her was so satisfying.
This story had heart, heat, and really well-done character growth. The side characters added so much warmth, and the whole thing was just so easy to fall into. It’s one of those books where you tell yourself one more chapter and suddenly it’s been hours.
I’m still smiling thinking about them.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Shann McPherson & The Smuthood for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Next Best Swing by Shann McPherson Beta & eARC Review ⛳️
The way I LOVED this book. When did golf get to be so damn hot? 🥵
This is actually my first book by Shann and I am most definitely hooked now. Her writing is fantastic and this book was everything you could want in sports romance. Brookes and Poppy have the absolute sweetest story that truly made my heart melt.
Brookes is grumpy, and has the toughest exterior. I love a grumpy MMC and when he is soft and sweet only with Poppy.. that melts me.
Brookes and Poppy enter into a fake dating agreement in order for Brookes to fix his imagine in the golf world. Poppy is the absolutely sweetest. She is truly sunlight in his dark world. Their banter is amazing, absolutely top tier. The spice is SO HOT. The vibrator on the golf course scene will live rent free in my mind.
I can’t recommend this book enough. The tension will have you sweating and the happily ever after will have you kicking your feet.
What to expect:
Golf romance
Fake dating
Age gap
Grumpy x sunshine
He falls first
Chronic illness rep
Slow burn
Thank you so much Shann for allowing me to beta read this amazing book and for the arc as well!
The way I LOVED this book. When did golf get to be so damn hot? 🥵
This is actually my first book by Shann and I am most definitely hooked now. Her writing is fantastic and this book was everything you could want in sports romance. Brookes and Poppy have the absolute sweetest story that truly made my heart melt.
Brookes is grumpy, and has the toughest exterior. I love a grumpy MMC and when he is soft and sweet only with Poppy.. that melts me.
Brookes and Poppy enter into a fake dating agreement in order for Brookes to fix his imagine in the golf world. Poppy is the absolutely sweetest. She is truly sunlight in his dark world. Their banter is amazing, absolutely top tier. The spice is SO HOT. The vibrator on the golf course scene will live rent free in my mind.
I can’t recommend this book enough. The tension will have you sweating and the happily ever after will have you kicking your feet.
What to expect:
Golf romance
Fake dating
Age gap
Grumpy x sunshine
He falls first
Chronic illness rep
Slow burn
Thank you so much Shann for allowing me to beta read this amazing book and for the arc as well!
April 15, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ was this a great book? No. But was it a good lil spicy palate cleanser? Sure was.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can not recommend this one enough!! I promise these two will not disappoint.
HAPPY BROOKS ABD POPPY DAY!!! You guys I loved this one!! Shann’s books are the perfect mix of funny spicy and captivating!!
And this one is absolutely no different.
A hot pro gold romance book?!? YES PLEASE!! Petition for more of these asap!!
Brooks & Poppy start fake dating to help save Brooks career and things start getting real, quick!!! because Brooks cannot help, but fall for our girl Poppy!
The banter, chemistry, emotion, and chemistry that these two have with each other is unmatched!!
Tropes
Golf romance
Fake dating
Age gap
Grumpy x sunshine
He falls first
Chronic illness rep
Slow burn
HAPPY BROOKS ABD POPPY DAY!!! You guys I loved this one!! Shann’s books are the perfect mix of funny spicy and captivating!!
And this one is absolutely no different.
A hot pro gold romance book?!? YES PLEASE!! Petition for more of these asap!!
Brooks & Poppy start fake dating to help save Brooks career and things start getting real, quick!!! because Brooks cannot help, but fall for our girl Poppy!
The banter, chemistry, emotion, and chemistry that these two have with each other is unmatched!!
Tropes
Golf romance
Fake dating
Age gap
Grumpy x sunshine
He falls first
Chronic illness rep
Slow burn
April 8, 2026
One word: Megalodon. I never thought that this one would could basically destroy me, because that ending was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever read. Despite being a pretty lighthearted sports romance back there are themes of past sexual assault and addictions, so please proceed with caution. In a light note, I’ve never read a golf romance before but Shann McPherson is one of my favourite sports romance writers, and ladies and their spawns, she has done it again! There is nothing I love more than a fake dating romance with so much feels. The forced proximity trope, one bed trope and even the little bit of forbidden trope makes it so much more intense. The plot was amazing, so gripping and emotional, with great plot twists. But for me, it was the characters that stood out the most. I loved the portrayal of Poppys chronicles disease, her SA trauma and body image struggles called to the broken part of my soul. I love a character I can relate too, and feels even too real at times. Brooke’s was the perfect boyfriend, one of the greenest flags I’ve ever read. He is so damn SMITTEN, and just protective and wants to make sure she’s always comfortable.
Their chemistry was something else, just the way she loved his praise and how he makes her feel loved, and the way she calms him down and quiets his addictions. I love all the side characters, and seeing Happy and Hannah get married truly was a blessing. Brookes’ eighty year old best friend Jonesy is also such a mood and I loved him! I can’t wait to see what’s next from Shann McPherson! This book was an emotional rollercoaster and such an inspiring book, I give it a 5/5
Their chemistry was something else, just the way she loved his praise and how he makes her feel loved, and the way she calms him down and quiets his addictions. I love all the side characters, and seeing Happy and Hannah get married truly was a blessing. Brookes’ eighty year old best friend Jonesy is also such a mood and I loved him! I can’t wait to see what’s next from Shann McPherson! This book was an emotional rollercoaster and such an inspiring book, I give it a 5/5
April 13, 2026
One day I will read a book from Shann and not cry over it. Today was not that day. Y'all are NOT ready for Poppy and Brookes!! These two were amazing and had me in ALL my feelings!! Poppy was such a beautiful character, and I loved every piece of her journey that we got to see, as she fought for her own healing and growth! She was so amazing to watch as she pushed herself through her own growth, while also providing Brookes with the support and steadiness that he didn't even know he needed! And Brookes was just such an amazing man, and from where we saw him in Happy Ever After to this book was so incredible! I loved so much how we got to watch him come back into his own, and accepting the love and support of the people around him! These two were just perfection!! Plus all the side characters we got in this book were just the best!! I'd do some sketchy things to have a Lori in my life!! Overall, this book was amazing, and I absolutely binged it in a day! I loved every second of it, and I am so glad to be able to read this one!! 5 stars; 3.75 chili peppers
Tropes:
- Fake Dating
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Hurt/Comfort
- Workplace Romance
- Age Gap
- "Who did this to you?"
Tropes:
- Fake Dating
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Hurt/Comfort
- Workplace Romance
- Age Gap
- "Who did this to you?"
March 20, 2026
The book I didn’t know I wanted but needed! Shann gave Brookes a great redemption story and I absolutely loved it!
We first meet Brookes in Happy Ever After and it’s all thanks to Hannah and Happy that Brookes gets the help he needs. One year later and here we are - Brookes is needing to clean up his image after the awful events that took place at his last golf tournament - his team thinks he needs a nice girl to help his image - in walks Poppy a cart girl from the golf course that can help.
I absolutely loved Poppy, plus sized but so secure with her body and her looks that you cannot help but love her and that’s exactly what Brookes does! Fake dating is never just fake dating and these two are incredibly cute together. He makes her feel safe and she helps calm him. When he needed her on the golf course I almost melted!
Poppy has a heartbreaking back story that Shann writes about so well.
Loved Lori and “Jonesy” the parent figures they both did not have 🥰
Cannot recommend this book more and if you are coming from the New York Thunder series you will love Brookes book!
Thank you so much to Shann and her team for this eARC in exchange for my honest review
We first meet Brookes in Happy Ever After and it’s all thanks to Hannah and Happy that Brookes gets the help he needs. One year later and here we are - Brookes is needing to clean up his image after the awful events that took place at his last golf tournament - his team thinks he needs a nice girl to help his image - in walks Poppy a cart girl from the golf course that can help.
I absolutely loved Poppy, plus sized but so secure with her body and her looks that you cannot help but love her and that’s exactly what Brookes does! Fake dating is never just fake dating and these two are incredibly cute together. He makes her feel safe and she helps calm him. When he needed her on the golf course I almost melted!
Poppy has a heartbreaking back story that Shann writes about so well.
Loved Lori and “Jonesy” the parent figures they both did not have 🥰
Cannot recommend this book more and if you are coming from the New York Thunder series you will love Brookes book!
Thank you so much to Shann and her team for this eARC in exchange for my honest review
April 7, 2026
I went into Next Best Swing by Shann McPherson not really knowing what to expect, as this was my first book by this author, and I'm so glad I was selected to receive the e-ARC. It ended up being such a fun and great surprise.
This story follows Brookes, a professional golfer in need of a bit of a...let's call it a personal and professional reset, and Poppy, a cart girl who becomes exactly the kind of grounding presence he didn't know he needed. What unfolds between them feels natural and easy in the best way. Their connection isn't overly dramatic or forced, it's built on comfort, trust, and that quiet sense of safety that just makes you exhale a little as a reader.
The writing style really stood out to me. The prose isn't overly flowery, it leans into everyday language but it's done in a way that feels mature, intentional, and intelligent. It made the story feel grounded while still carrying emotional depth, which I really appreciated.
Also, can we talk about how refreshing it is to get a golf romance? It's not a trope you see often, and it gave the story such a fun and unique backdrop. We need more golf romances!
And yes...the spice was spicing. I can't speak for everyone's spice scale, but for me it landed at a solid 3.5 red peppers. Just enough heat to keep things interesting while still letting the emotional connection take a center stage.
One of my favorite things, though, was the lack of a third -act breakup. Instead of unnecessary drama, we get a relationship that grows in a way that feels steady and genuine, which honestly made me love it even more.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read; heartfelt, easy to sink into, and a really strong introduction to Shann McPherson for me. I'll definitely be reading more from this author.
This story follows Brookes, a professional golfer in need of a bit of a...let's call it a personal and professional reset, and Poppy, a cart girl who becomes exactly the kind of grounding presence he didn't know he needed. What unfolds between them feels natural and easy in the best way. Their connection isn't overly dramatic or forced, it's built on comfort, trust, and that quiet sense of safety that just makes you exhale a little as a reader.
The writing style really stood out to me. The prose isn't overly flowery, it leans into everyday language but it's done in a way that feels mature, intentional, and intelligent. It made the story feel grounded while still carrying emotional depth, which I really appreciated.
Also, can we talk about how refreshing it is to get a golf romance? It's not a trope you see often, and it gave the story such a fun and unique backdrop. We need more golf romances!
And yes...the spice was spicing. I can't speak for everyone's spice scale, but for me it landed at a solid 3.5 red peppers. Just enough heat to keep things interesting while still letting the emotional connection take a center stage.
One of my favorite things, though, was the lack of a third -act breakup. Instead of unnecessary drama, we get a relationship that grows in a way that feels steady and genuine, which honestly made me love it even more.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read; heartfelt, easy to sink into, and a really strong introduction to Shann McPherson for me. I'll definitely be reading more from this author.
April 18, 2026
I will be the first to admit that I never thought I would be a superfan of a golf romance…and yet, here I am, a fan for this one.
This was my first book of McPherson’s, the tropes (age gap lures me every time, deal with it) having interested me when I saw posts on Instagram. Anyways, this will not be my last, I was hooked from the start. Pacing, plot, characters…all had layers that just really worked for me. Imperfect in their imperfection, endearing in their desire to be their best selves.
Brookes, MMC, was a pro-golfer darling until his indulgent lifestyle caught up with him - nearly ruining his career. But he stepped back, went into rehab and is putting in the work. Issue is that not all believe it and still think he needs to amp up the reputation improvement.
Enter the FMC, Poppy, currently the cart girl at Brookes’ home course to make ends meet while she works to get her dream off the ground. Her home situation is shit but she’s doing the best she can with what she has, then Brookes comes into her life with a big ask. Nothing is the same after that.
Their dynamic switches from professional to personal quickly, finding security and support in one another that they do not have elsewhere. Overcoming their own demons, pushing past the barriers trying to keep them apart…will they make it? Will they defeat the outside factors against them?
Addiction recovery, chronic illness representation, and past demons long buried are what add depth to this story as I’ve said. Highly recommend.
Oh, do not worry, the spice is perfection…and if you are a *thighgasm* lover…this one is for you.
(Copywrite pending on “thighgasm”)
This was my first book of McPherson’s, the tropes (age gap lures me every time, deal with it) having interested me when I saw posts on Instagram. Anyways, this will not be my last, I was hooked from the start. Pacing, plot, characters…all had layers that just really worked for me. Imperfect in their imperfection, endearing in their desire to be their best selves.
Brookes, MMC, was a pro-golfer darling until his indulgent lifestyle caught up with him - nearly ruining his career. But he stepped back, went into rehab and is putting in the work. Issue is that not all believe it and still think he needs to amp up the reputation improvement.
Enter the FMC, Poppy, currently the cart girl at Brookes’ home course to make ends meet while she works to get her dream off the ground. Her home situation is shit but she’s doing the best she can with what she has, then Brookes comes into her life with a big ask. Nothing is the same after that.
Their dynamic switches from professional to personal quickly, finding security and support in one another that they do not have elsewhere. Overcoming their own demons, pushing past the barriers trying to keep them apart…will they make it? Will they defeat the outside factors against them?
Addiction recovery, chronic illness representation, and past demons long buried are what add depth to this story as I’ve said. Highly recommend.
Oh, do not worry, the spice is perfection…and if you are a *thighgasm* lover…this one is for you.
(Copywrite pending on “thighgasm”)
April 10, 2026
✨ARC REVIEW✨
⭐️: 5
🌶️: 3
💭: Oh look…another 5⭐️ banger from Shann McPherson. Are we surprised?? Because I’m definitely not.
Brookes Devereaux is on a full-blown comeback tour — and not by choice. After his struggles with addiction nearly cost him everything, he’s doing the hard work to reclaim his place in professional golf.
Then there’s Poppy Crawford — our curvy, sunshine cart girl who completely steals the scene. When Brookes’ team ropes them into a fake dating situation (with a side of forced proximity + age gap 😮🔥), you think you know what you’re getting… but trust me, it’s so much more.
What starts off feeling light and fun quickly deepens into something incredibly emotional. Poppy’s confidence radiates off the page, but her inner battles hit in a way that almost takes your breath away (in the most beautiful, gut-punch kind of way). Brookes? Hard to read, closed off, guarded, and quietly shattered. And when these two finally collide… whew.
This story delivered everything: angst, yearning, adoration, respect, laughs, spice, and a love that felt so earned. I genuinely didn’t want it to end — I would’ve happily lived in this book for another 1,000 pages.
Brookes becomes the safety Poppy deserves, and she becomes the calm and clarity he’s been missing. Their dynamic? Electrifying!
10/10 — immediately move this to the top of your TBR. You can read this as a standalone, but skipping the New York Thunder series would honestly be a big mistake. BIG. HUGE (oops, looks like I got my own Pretty Woman Moment 😘)!
Shann, thank you for the ARC. I’m constantly blown away by your talent. One day I will hug you in real life to properly thank you — for the laughs, the tears, and the swoony, thigh-clenching moments you deliver every single time. 💚🩵
⭐️: 5
🌶️: 3
💭: Oh look…another 5⭐️ banger from Shann McPherson. Are we surprised?? Because I’m definitely not.
Brookes Devereaux is on a full-blown comeback tour — and not by choice. After his struggles with addiction nearly cost him everything, he’s doing the hard work to reclaim his place in professional golf.
Then there’s Poppy Crawford — our curvy, sunshine cart girl who completely steals the scene. When Brookes’ team ropes them into a fake dating situation (with a side of forced proximity + age gap 😮🔥), you think you know what you’re getting… but trust me, it’s so much more.
What starts off feeling light and fun quickly deepens into something incredibly emotional. Poppy’s confidence radiates off the page, but her inner battles hit in a way that almost takes your breath away (in the most beautiful, gut-punch kind of way). Brookes? Hard to read, closed off, guarded, and quietly shattered. And when these two finally collide… whew.
This story delivered everything: angst, yearning, adoration, respect, laughs, spice, and a love that felt so earned. I genuinely didn’t want it to end — I would’ve happily lived in this book for another 1,000 pages.
Brookes becomes the safety Poppy deserves, and she becomes the calm and clarity he’s been missing. Their dynamic? Electrifying!
10/10 — immediately move this to the top of your TBR. You can read this as a standalone, but skipping the New York Thunder series would honestly be a big mistake. BIG. HUGE (oops, looks like I got my own Pretty Woman Moment 😘)!
Shann, thank you for the ARC. I’m constantly blown away by your talent. One day I will hug you in real life to properly thank you — for the laughs, the tears, and the swoony, thigh-clenching moments you deliver every single time. 💚🩵
April 12, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
🌟ARC Read🌟
I wasn’t totally sure how I felt about Brookes going into this. We get glimpses of him in the previous series and know he’s a famous golfer who hit rock bottom and ended up in rehab. He’s trying to get his life together so he doesn’t lose his shot with the PGA, and let’s just say, his image needs work.
He’s a brash, tattooed, ridiculously handsome 30-year-old who definitely doesn’t fit the typical golfer mold. As part of fixing his reputation, he’s advised to clean up his image, including getting a girlfriend. Enter Poppy, the cart girl at his club.
First, I have to say, Jonesy and Lori were hands down my favorite side characters. I loved every scene with them.
Now, I did struggle a bit with how often Poppy’s weight was brought up. I’m all for plus-size representation (love it, actually), but the constant “she’s not my type so I won’t be tempted” comments from Brookes rubbed me the wrong way at first.
That said… once his feelings shift, they shift fast. And when Brookes is in, he is ALL in. He becomes protective, devoted, and honestly… kind of melts you. 🫠 Especially with that dirty mouth 🥵
I won’t spoil anything, but I really ended up enjoying this one. I also loved seeing characters from the New York Thunder woven into the story—it added so much to the world.
Spicy chapters 🔥
28
29
31
33
34
38
40
41
42
45
46
3 🌶️
🌟ARC Read🌟
I wasn’t totally sure how I felt about Brookes going into this. We get glimpses of him in the previous series and know he’s a famous golfer who hit rock bottom and ended up in rehab. He’s trying to get his life together so he doesn’t lose his shot with the PGA, and let’s just say, his image needs work.
He’s a brash, tattooed, ridiculously handsome 30-year-old who definitely doesn’t fit the typical golfer mold. As part of fixing his reputation, he’s advised to clean up his image, including getting a girlfriend. Enter Poppy, the cart girl at his club.
First, I have to say, Jonesy and Lori were hands down my favorite side characters. I loved every scene with them.
Now, I did struggle a bit with how often Poppy’s weight was brought up. I’m all for plus-size representation (love it, actually), but the constant “she’s not my type so I won’t be tempted” comments from Brookes rubbed me the wrong way at first.
That said… once his feelings shift, they shift fast. And when Brookes is in, he is ALL in. He becomes protective, devoted, and honestly… kind of melts you. 🫠 Especially with that dirty mouth 🥵
I won’t spoil anything, but I really ended up enjoying this one. I also loved seeing characters from the New York Thunder woven into the story—it added so much to the world.
Spicy chapters 🔥
28
29
31
33
34
38
40
41
42
45
46
April 12, 2026
Next Best Swing
By: Shann McPherson
“Well, you better get used to seeing her out there, Jackson. She’s my lucky charm, and she ain’t goin’ nowhere.”
I was an ignorant stupid-*ss son of a b!tch to think having a girl like Poppy around wouldn’t tempt me because she’s not my type. Not my type? Turns out Poppy is fine as h*ll and I’m a f***ing joke.
“You’re the first man I’ve ever felt safe with.”
Brookes and Poppy are my first ever golf romance read, and oh my god! They did not disappoint!! These two are the freaking cutest! I love how they both have traumatic pasts, but when put together to fake date and help Brookes image, they find the healing they are both so desperately looking for without even realizing it. They just click from the get go. Add in the perfect side characters Lori and Jonesy who are hilarious, and always championing for our girl Poppy. And a dirty talking Brookes in the bedroom and we get a fun and sexy read. I can’t gush enough about these two. I really loved their story!
Tropes:
Age Gap
Grumpy x Sunshine
Golf Player MMC
Slow Burn
Fake Dating
He Falls First
Spice starts at: 55%
Spice: 3/4
Stars: 5/5
Available on Kindle Unlimited
By: Shann McPherson
“Well, you better get used to seeing her out there, Jackson. She’s my lucky charm, and she ain’t goin’ nowhere.”
I was an ignorant stupid-*ss son of a b!tch to think having a girl like Poppy around wouldn’t tempt me because she’s not my type. Not my type? Turns out Poppy is fine as h*ll and I’m a f***ing joke.
“You’re the first man I’ve ever felt safe with.”
Brookes and Poppy are my first ever golf romance read, and oh my god! They did not disappoint!! These two are the freaking cutest! I love how they both have traumatic pasts, but when put together to fake date and help Brookes image, they find the healing they are both so desperately looking for without even realizing it. They just click from the get go. Add in the perfect side characters Lori and Jonesy who are hilarious, and always championing for our girl Poppy. And a dirty talking Brookes in the bedroom and we get a fun and sexy read. I can’t gush enough about these two. I really loved their story!
Tropes:
Age Gap
Grumpy x Sunshine
Golf Player MMC
Slow Burn
Fake Dating
He Falls First
Spice starts at: 55%
Spice: 3/4
Stars: 5/5
Available on Kindle Unlimited
April 5, 2026
⭐️ 5 stars
Shann McPherson said she could make golf hot… and she absolutely delivered.
Next Best Swing is one of those books that just hooks you immediately—the chemistry, the banter, the tension?? It’s effortless and so addictive.
Fake dating + grumpy MMC + sunshine FMC is already a win, but Brookes and Poppy just hit different. Their dynamic felt natural, easy, and genuinely fun to read. The way he softens for her?? Yeah… I get it.
Poppy was such a standout for me—confident, real, and so easy to love. And Brookes’ redemption arc added that depth that made this more than just a fun sports romance.
This was one of those “I’ll just read one more chapter” books… and suddenly your entire day is gone.
If you want:
♡ fake dating
♡ grumpy x sunshine
♡ banter + chemistry
♡ sports romance that actually delivers
…this one is it.
April 17, 2026
I’m a golf girlie so when I saw a new golf romance coming out I knew I had to have it on my tbr asap. And what better release day than day one of The Masters!
This was my first book by this author and it definitely won’t be my last! I definitely found myself not wanting to put it down.
Brookes Deveraux is a recovering addict and a top golf pro. After a poor performance and slight meltdown, he’s gotta clean up his image to get back on top. And according to his manager, one way to do that is find a girlfriend. Poppy Crawford is the cart girl at Brooke’s home course. Seems like the perfect fit for a fake girlfriend, right?
Poppy is a plus size girl and not somebody Brookes would typically go for. But the tension between the two and how confident Poppy becomes is perfect. Their friendship to start just made it that much better!
This was my first book by this author and it definitely won’t be my last! I definitely found myself not wanting to put it down.
Brookes Deveraux is a recovering addict and a top golf pro. After a poor performance and slight meltdown, he’s gotta clean up his image to get back on top. And according to his manager, one way to do that is find a girlfriend. Poppy Crawford is the cart girl at Brooke’s home course. Seems like the perfect fit for a fake girlfriend, right?
Poppy is a plus size girl and not somebody Brookes would typically go for. But the tension between the two and how confident Poppy becomes is perfect. Their friendship to start just made it that much better!
April 9, 2026
I'm obsessed with Brookes & Poppy. I seriously had the best time reading this one. Check out my updates for the chaos.
The way Brookes was so protective with Poppy & made her feel safe. Man was grumpy as hell, till Poppy. Then Poppy, our sunshine girl. She was the absolute sweetest! Also the way Brookes was so patient with Poppy knowing her past. We love the consent! He made her use those words.
These two were freaking hot as well. It might of taken a minute to get there, but damn!
And who knew golf romance would be so hot?! Give me a Brookes and I’ll go sit through a round of golf anytime.
And I loved their little game of Truth or Dare throughout.
I can’t wait to go back to the NY Thunder series after meeting them in this one briefly!
Thank you Shann for the arc and letting me read Poppy & Brookes!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:
•golf romance
•age gap
•fake dating
•grumpy x sunshine
•he falls first
•chronic illness rep
•slow burn
The way Brookes was so protective with Poppy & made her feel safe. Man was grumpy as hell, till Poppy. Then Poppy, our sunshine girl. She was the absolute sweetest! Also the way Brookes was so patient with Poppy knowing her past. We love the consent! He made her use those words.
These two were freaking hot as well. It might of taken a minute to get there, but damn!
And who knew golf romance would be so hot?! Give me a Brookes and I’ll go sit through a round of golf anytime.
And I loved their little game of Truth or Dare throughout.
I can’t wait to go back to the NY Thunder series after meeting them in this one briefly!
Thank you Shann for the arc and letting me read Poppy & Brookes!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁:
•golf romance
•age gap
•fake dating
•grumpy x sunshine
•he falls first
•chronic illness rep
•slow burn
April 12, 2026
arc review ⛳️💚💙
4.5⭐️
i have once again been proven by an author that GOLF IS HOT and we have been sleeping on golf romances!!!
shann absolutely killed it with poppy & brookes story. i was so excited for him to get his own story after i read happy ever after (the last book in shann’s hockey series) and it did not disappoint 👏🏽
brookes is a recovering addict/alcoholic who is getting back to the golf scene after. and poppy is the cart girl at his golf club who he propositions to be his fake girlfriend to help improve how the golf world sees him. what they didn’t see coming is how much they needed each other!!! poppy was the calm to his storm and brookes was the safe space poppy oh so deserved 🥹
٠࣪⭑ what to expect ٠࣪⭑
⛳️ gold romance
🤫 fake dating
🌦️ grumpy x sunshine
👀 age gap
💚 chronic illness rep
😍 he falls first
🐌 slow burn
4.5⭐️
i have once again been proven by an author that GOLF IS HOT and we have been sleeping on golf romances!!!
shann absolutely killed it with poppy & brookes story. i was so excited for him to get his own story after i read happy ever after (the last book in shann’s hockey series) and it did not disappoint 👏🏽
brookes is a recovering addict/alcoholic who is getting back to the golf scene after. and poppy is the cart girl at his golf club who he propositions to be his fake girlfriend to help improve how the golf world sees him. what they didn’t see coming is how much they needed each other!!! poppy was the calm to his storm and brookes was the safe space poppy oh so deserved 🥹
٠࣪⭑ what to expect ٠࣪⭑
⛳️ gold romance
🤫 fake dating
🌦️ grumpy x sunshine
👀 age gap
💚 chronic illness rep
😍 he falls first
🐌 slow burn
April 2, 2026
While this was my first book of Shann McPherson’s, it surely won’t be my last. Next Best Swing made me laugh, cry, and (here’s something I never thought I’d say) truly enjoy a book about golfers! I am a sucker for a fake dating trope, but Poppy and Brookes are one of my favorite couples ever. The witty banter, plus-size representation, and 🔥🔥🔥 scenes…what more could you want?
A special thank you to Shann and TheSmuthood for allowing me to get early access to this masterpiece! BRB while I go devour The New York Thunder series.
A special thank you to Shann and TheSmuthood for allowing me to get early access to this masterpiece! BRB while I go devour The New York Thunder series.
May 6, 2026
another great book !!
Shann always writes great books ! I swear her banter and writing style is just so good !!
This story was so cute and I loved every piece of it. Also I loved that the whole crew came to happys wedding and we got a glimpse of how everything else is doing !
This was my first golfer read and I definitely enjoyed it !
Shann always writes great books ! I swear her banter and writing style is just so good !!
This story was so cute and I loved every piece of it. Also I loved that the whole crew came to happys wedding and we got a glimpse of how everything else is doing !
This was my first golfer read and I definitely enjoyed it !
April 15, 2026
3.75 rounded up! I really enjoyed this story and their chemistry! Good plot and I love the hot golfer angle.
But did the main character really need to be SAd once, attempted SAd, and verbally and physically assaulted and harassed?? Like give my girl a BREAK
But did the main character really need to be SAd once, attempted SAd, and verbally and physically assaulted and harassed?? Like give my girl a BREAK
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2026
Considering my generational reading slump, getting fully through this and being engaged is complimentary enough. The pet names made me nauseous as always and I added half a star simply bc I appreciated the republican slander 😛
April 18, 2026
I was initially excited for this book after meeting Brookes in Happy Every After, but unfortunately this one just didn't do it for me.
First, this is supposed to be grumpy x sunshine, a trope I love. Brookes is a total grumpy ass, which was great, but I don't think Poppy is really sunshine. She has multiple past traumas that she's still working through. It felt like she wants to be pure sunshine and joy, she's just not there yet.
But my biggest issue with this book was one spicy scene. After Poppy reveals her past r*pe, which happened in front of a large audience, Brookes is understandably angry and upset. However, he then goes and buys a Bluetooth vibr*t*r for her to wear while she caddy’s for him during a tournament. He proceeds to spend the entire day edging her, in front of a large crowd. That’s something that just didn’t sit right with me considering her r*pe was so public. That is ultimately what led me to not enjoy this book. I did finish it, but that scene really stuck with me and wrecked the book for me.
First, this is supposed to be grumpy x sunshine, a trope I love. Brookes is a total grumpy ass, which was great, but I don't think Poppy is really sunshine. She has multiple past traumas that she's still working through. It felt like she wants to be pure sunshine and joy, she's just not there yet.
But my biggest issue with this book was one spicy scene. After Poppy reveals her past r*pe, which happened in front of a large audience, Brookes is understandably angry and upset. However, he then goes and buys a Bluetooth vibr*t*r for her to wear while she caddy’s for him during a tournament. He proceeds to spend the entire day edging her, in front of a large crowd. That’s something that just didn’t sit right with me considering her r*pe was so public. That is ultimately what led me to not enjoy this book. I did finish it, but that scene really stuck with me and wrecked the book for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2026
4.8 ⭐️
YUPPPPPP i loved this book and honestly can’t wait to read more! i don’t know her 4 books interconnected series also lowkey connects with this and i found that out later (which is totally okay because i loved how this was written so i WILL be going back to read the other books)
1. they both had some real trauma in their lives and are both working through it (trigger warning in the beginning)
2. loved the grumpy sunshine trope
3. she was a curvy queen and he was a hot af grump
4. LOVED the nickname “pops” 🥹
5. sarcasm humor 🤌🏼
can’t wait to read more by her
p.s. code word megalodon 🥹😭
YUPPPPPP i loved this book and honestly can’t wait to read more! i don’t know her 4 books interconnected series also lowkey connects with this and i found that out later (which is totally okay because i loved how this was written so i WILL be going back to read the other books)
1. they both had some real trauma in their lives and are both working through it (trigger warning in the beginning)
2. loved the grumpy sunshine trope
3. she was a curvy queen and he was a hot af grump
4. LOVED the nickname “pops” 🥹
5. sarcasm humor 🤌🏼
can’t wait to read more by her
p.s. code word megalodon 🥹😭
May 4, 2026
First read of a golf romance and we need more of these!! Loved this book and fake dating so much! The characters made me feel like I was in the book!
April 13, 2026
3.5 fmc was midsize (size16) but the writing made it out like this big thing…it got old
The mmc telling her she wasn’t his type stung but usually that would we contradicted the inner monologue but it wasn’t until the first event he noticed she is hot? Idk
I still have secondhand embarrassment about the beach incident and they never discussed it even later on
The lack of communication got old
The mmc telling her she wasn’t his type stung but usually that would we contradicted the inner monologue but it wasn’t until the first event he noticed she is hot? Idk
I still have secondhand embarrassment about the beach incident and they never discussed it even later on
The lack of communication got old
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️
I love when a book makes me work for the romance a little—and this one definitely did. It didn’t sweep me up right away, but somewhere along the way, it quietly pulled me in and refused to let go.
Brookes is coming off a rough stretch—rehab, bad decisions, and a reputation that needs serious repair if he’s going to have any kind of comeback in the golf world. So naturally, he lands on fake dating. Enter Poppy Crawford: cart girl, sunshine personified, and just trying to get out of her ex’s apartment while building something of her own. On paper, it’s simple—he fixes his image, she gets financial breathing room. No strings, no complications.
Except… it’s a little awkward at first. The chemistry isn’t instant, and honestly, I appreciated that. Brookes chooses Poppy because he doesn’t see her as a distraction, which is… a choice. And he’s not exactly charming in the beginning either—very grumpy, very blunt, occasionally making you want to side-eye him. Meanwhile, Poppy is warm, patient, and quietly holding her own. Their dynamic feels uneven early on, and I won’t lie—I had a moment where I wondered how this was going to turn into a convincing romance.
But that imbalance actually ends up making more sense the deeper you get into Brookes’ head. His struggle with addiction isn’t just a backstory detail—it shapes everything. The pressure, the mental exhaustion, the constant effort it takes to stay in control… you feel all of it. It explains why he keeps people at arm’s length, why he needed someone who felt “safe,” and why Poppy becomes that space for him. Watching him slowly become more grounded, more self-aware, and honestly… softer, was such a rewarding part of the story.
And that’s exactly why the relationship unfolds the way it does. There’s no big, dramatic “bam” moment where feelings suddenly appear. It’s quiet. It starts with Brookes finding comfort in Poppy—this steady, safe place to land—and from there, it just grows. Small moments, baby steps, a shift you almost don’t notice until it’s already there. By the time it clicks, it really clicks.
That softness carries into how he shows up for her, too. Because while Poppy is light and kind, she’s also carrying trauma and chronic illness beneath the surface. When she starts to open up, the way Brookes supports her—without trying to fix everything—really shows how much he cares. Their relationship isn’t built on grand gestures, but on consistency, on being there, on choosing each other in the quiet moments.
By the end, I was completely won over. Brookes’ growth, Poppy’s quiet strength, and a relationship that feels earned instead of rushed—it all comes together so well. Add in a few familiar faces, and it’s such a satisfying return to this world.
💫Thank you to Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for an advanced copy💫
I love when a book makes me work for the romance a little—and this one definitely did. It didn’t sweep me up right away, but somewhere along the way, it quietly pulled me in and refused to let go.
Brookes is coming off a rough stretch—rehab, bad decisions, and a reputation that needs serious repair if he’s going to have any kind of comeback in the golf world. So naturally, he lands on fake dating. Enter Poppy Crawford: cart girl, sunshine personified, and just trying to get out of her ex’s apartment while building something of her own. On paper, it’s simple—he fixes his image, she gets financial breathing room. No strings, no complications.
Except… it’s a little awkward at first. The chemistry isn’t instant, and honestly, I appreciated that. Brookes chooses Poppy because he doesn’t see her as a distraction, which is… a choice. And he’s not exactly charming in the beginning either—very grumpy, very blunt, occasionally making you want to side-eye him. Meanwhile, Poppy is warm, patient, and quietly holding her own. Their dynamic feels uneven early on, and I won’t lie—I had a moment where I wondered how this was going to turn into a convincing romance.
But that imbalance actually ends up making more sense the deeper you get into Brookes’ head. His struggle with addiction isn’t just a backstory detail—it shapes everything. The pressure, the mental exhaustion, the constant effort it takes to stay in control… you feel all of it. It explains why he keeps people at arm’s length, why he needed someone who felt “safe,” and why Poppy becomes that space for him. Watching him slowly become more grounded, more self-aware, and honestly… softer, was such a rewarding part of the story.
And that’s exactly why the relationship unfolds the way it does. There’s no big, dramatic “bam” moment where feelings suddenly appear. It’s quiet. It starts with Brookes finding comfort in Poppy—this steady, safe place to land—and from there, it just grows. Small moments, baby steps, a shift you almost don’t notice until it’s already there. By the time it clicks, it really clicks.
That softness carries into how he shows up for her, too. Because while Poppy is light and kind, she’s also carrying trauma and chronic illness beneath the surface. When she starts to open up, the way Brookes supports her—without trying to fix everything—really shows how much he cares. Their relationship isn’t built on grand gestures, but on consistency, on being there, on choosing each other in the quiet moments.
By the end, I was completely won over. Brookes’ growth, Poppy’s quiet strength, and a relationship that feels earned instead of rushed—it all comes together so well. Add in a few familiar faces, and it’s such a satisfying return to this world.
💫Thank you to Shann McPherson and The Smuthood for an advanced copy💫
Review of advance copy received from Author
The world can always use a great comeback story, this is one of those stories.
I love the storyline and plot of Next Best Swing, along with it's main characters Poppy & Brookes. Their story is awesome with amazing chemistry between them. It is a beautiful thing when two broken souls find each other and end up being each others greatest supporters. Poppy's sass and how realistically "male" Brookes is truly makes this book a wonderful read. Not to mention the spicy scenes are well written and thankfully there are a good number of them 😍.
When we first meet Brookes he is a grumpy, always seems angry stick in the mud MMC. But at his core, and what he hides behind this mask, he is a very caring, kind, giving, considerate and protective MMC. After succesfully fighting his addictions at rehab Brookes would give anything to achieve his dream of obtaining the elusive green jacket by winning The Masters. To help soften his image his management team encourages him to consider finding someone to settle down with. Enter the sweet, sassy, funny, desperately needs money FMC cart girl Poppy. It is hilarious to read how their friends try desperately to push them and their relationship from fake-dating to real-dating
This books fun banter between the characters, their friendly support of each other, Poppy's love and implementation at odd times of the game Truth or Dare, Brookes protectivness of Poppy and her positive influence on Brookes helps elevate the book from a good read to a great one. My favorite has to be the way Shann wrote Brookes character. His characteristics are very much true to a real life male. I cracked up when, in true real life male fashion, he gets really flustered when she is crying and he desperately tries to fix whatever the problem is just to get the crying to stop.
My only could do without or not a fan of aspect of the book is the authors generalizations towards a couple groups of people. Thankfully it is only in a sentence or two throughout the book so it is easy to skip them as they did not add anything to the book.
If you are looking for a great feel good comeback story I recommend reading Next Best Swing by Shann McPherson.
This book has:
Grumpy protective MMC
Sweet and sassy curvy FMC
Age-gap
Fake-dating
Golf scenes
Lots of spicy scenes
Funny banter
Great plot, surprise twist
Found family & girl squad
Starting over after hitting rock bottom
Learning to trust again
Cameos of FMC's & MMC's from The New York Thunder Series
I love the storyline and plot of Next Best Swing, along with it's main characters Poppy & Brookes. Their story is awesome with amazing chemistry between them. It is a beautiful thing when two broken souls find each other and end up being each others greatest supporters. Poppy's sass and how realistically "male" Brookes is truly makes this book a wonderful read. Not to mention the spicy scenes are well written and thankfully there are a good number of them 😍.
When we first meet Brookes he is a grumpy, always seems angry stick in the mud MMC. But at his core, and what he hides behind this mask, he is a very caring, kind, giving, considerate and protective MMC. After succesfully fighting his addictions at rehab Brookes would give anything to achieve his dream of obtaining the elusive green jacket by winning The Masters. To help soften his image his management team encourages him to consider finding someone to settle down with. Enter the sweet, sassy, funny, desperately needs money FMC cart girl Poppy. It is hilarious to read how their friends try desperately to push them and their relationship from fake-dating to real-dating
This books fun banter between the characters, their friendly support of each other, Poppy's love and implementation at odd times of the game Truth or Dare, Brookes protectivness of Poppy and her positive influence on Brookes helps elevate the book from a good read to a great one. My favorite has to be the way Shann wrote Brookes character. His characteristics are very much true to a real life male. I cracked up when, in true real life male fashion, he gets really flustered when she is crying and he desperately tries to fix whatever the problem is just to get the crying to stop.
My only could do without or not a fan of aspect of the book is the authors generalizations towards a couple groups of people. Thankfully it is only in a sentence or two throughout the book so it is easy to skip them as they did not add anything to the book.
If you are looking for a great feel good comeback story I recommend reading Next Best Swing by Shann McPherson.
This book has:
Grumpy protective MMC
Sweet and sassy curvy FMC
Age-gap
Fake-dating
Golf scenes
Lots of spicy scenes
Funny banter
Great plot, surprise twist
Found family & girl squad
Starting over after hitting rock bottom
Learning to trust again
Cameos of FMC's & MMC's from The New York Thunder Series
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