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Philly Sillys Baseball #2
Working the Mound
Book 2 of the viral Savannah Bananas-inspired baseball romance series!
When her high school sweetheart comes crawling back. Literally.
With her degree in theater, Tiffiny Campanaro, had high hopes of being under the lights of Broadway. Instead she's sweating her ass off in a Liberty Bell costume as the mascot for her brother's Entertainment League Baseball team, the Philly Sillys. When she thought her life couldn't get any worse, her brother recruits her ex, the only man she ever loved, to join the team.
Ender Roche was a hotshot pitcher in high school. Sweet, charming, the one guy all the girls wanted. But he only wanted Tiffiny. That was until he let his balls do the thinking for him, dumping her for a chance to try to date the popular girl. Except, he couldn't go through with it. All he could think about was Tiffiny.
He never stopped thinking about her, even though she black listed him. A freak injury in the minors lands him with an uncertain future until his former teammate encourages him to try out for the ELB team he coaches for. Ender finds himself back in Tiffiny's orbit and will do everything in his power to win her back. Grovel on his knees, read her dark romance books, anything goes. Will Tiffiny forgive him and admit that Ender is her one true love, or will she forever give him the cold shoulder?
When her high school sweetheart comes crawling back. Literally.
With her degree in theater, Tiffiny Campanaro, had high hopes of being under the lights of Broadway. Instead she's sweating her ass off in a Liberty Bell costume as the mascot for her brother's Entertainment League Baseball team, the Philly Sillys. When she thought her life couldn't get any worse, her brother recruits her ex, the only man she ever loved, to join the team.
Ender Roche was a hotshot pitcher in high school. Sweet, charming, the one guy all the girls wanted. But he only wanted Tiffiny. That was until he let his balls do the thinking for him, dumping her for a chance to try to date the popular girl. Except, he couldn't go through with it. All he could think about was Tiffiny.
He never stopped thinking about her, even though she black listed him. A freak injury in the minors lands him with an uncertain future until his former teammate encourages him to try out for the ELB team he coaches for. Ender finds himself back in Tiffiny's orbit and will do everything in his power to win her back. Grovel on his knees, read her dark romance books, anything goes. Will Tiffiny forgive him and admit that Ender is her one true love, or will she forever give him the cold shoulder?
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2026
70 people are currently reading
212 people want to read
About the author
K. Iwancio
12 books226 followersI've been some semblance of a writer since 1st grade. That was when I first tasted the delight of getting a book published and reading it aloud to the class with rave reviews. What a power trip for a 7-year-old.
It wasn't until 7th grade that I was highly encouraged by my English teacher to continue writing poetry outside of class assignments. From there I moved on to Literary Club in 8th grade and added short stories to my repertoire.
When high school came around, that was when I discovered the wondrous world of FanFiction. It all went downhill from that point. Numerous teachers in high school loved my work and submitted some of my (safe) pieces for publication. My teachers were the reason that I told myself,
"I can do this. I can be a published author one day."
In college, the trend continued but I pursued a career path in the design sector and writing went on the back burner. That is until a month after THE GREATEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE, in 2022, I decided to start writing once again. It started with FanFic after FanFic, fast and furious.
Writing is my passion, my escape. Always has been, always will be.
It wasn't until 7th grade that I was highly encouraged by my English teacher to continue writing poetry outside of class assignments. From there I moved on to Literary Club in 8th grade and added short stories to my repertoire.
When high school came around, that was when I discovered the wondrous world of FanFiction. It all went downhill from that point. Numerous teachers in high school loved my work and submitted some of my (safe) pieces for publication. My teachers were the reason that I told myself,
"I can do this. I can be a published author one day."
In college, the trend continued but I pursued a career path in the design sector and writing went on the back burner. That is until a month after THE GREATEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE, in 2022, I decided to start writing once again. It started with FanFic after FanFic, fast and furious.
Writing is my passion, my escape. Always has been, always will be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
April 14, 2026
Nothing is better than a good catcher. There, I said it. After Working the Mound, I could be convinced a swooning, obsessed pitcher could come close, though. Throw in a super derpy mascot inhabited by a snarky badass and I was entertained from start to finish! Another W for Iwanacio!
May 6, 2026
I received an ARC for this book and to be honest I’ve been putting off writing this review trying to figure out how I actually feel about it but here goes.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series - was it the best book I’d ever read? Definitely not but it was fun and a quick read. This second book fell very flat for me as a sequel. It definitely would have benefited from more/better editing. Even setting typos aside, the story didn’t flow super well for me and I had a really hard time getting invested in the second chance romance. The slow burn also didn’t really work for me, it somehow felt like it dragged on AND like she went from “I can’t stand even looking at him” to “I want to climb him like a tree” overnight at the same time.
Even putting all of the above aside, the marketing around this book and series has taken a very weird parasocial turn lately that doesn’t sit well with me. I love baseball and I can appreciate a good looking player as much as anyone but using videos objectifying professional athletes to promote your book when they have not consented to being used in that way really crosses a line for me and I will probably not be reading this author anymore.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series - was it the best book I’d ever read? Definitely not but it was fun and a quick read. This second book fell very flat for me as a sequel. It definitely would have benefited from more/better editing. Even setting typos aside, the story didn’t flow super well for me and I had a really hard time getting invested in the second chance romance. The slow burn also didn’t really work for me, it somehow felt like it dragged on AND like she went from “I can’t stand even looking at him” to “I want to climb him like a tree” overnight at the same time.
Even putting all of the above aside, the marketing around this book and series has taken a very weird parasocial turn lately that doesn’t sit well with me. I love baseball and I can appreciate a good looking player as much as anyone but using videos objectifying professional athletes to promote your book when they have not consented to being used in that way really crosses a line for me and I will probably not be reading this author anymore.
March 22, 2026
*I received an e-ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Phillys Sillys Baseball Book #2
Tiffiny, mascot for the Phillys Sillys baseball team, thought her life couldn’t get any worse until she is forced to work with her ex, Ender, the only man she ever loved.
Tropes Include:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Second Chance Romance
-Workplace Romance
-Baseball Pitcher x Mascot
I have not read a lot of baseball romance, however I have been on a sports romance kick recently. Last year I got to read the first book in the Philly Sillys series and this year I was more than happy to pick up book two.
Working the Mound happens parallel to the first book, so we’re seeing a lot of new scenes of our new main character, Tiffany, talking with the main character of the first book, Cadence, and getting more insight into the first book events from a new perspective.
I do not know much about entertainment league baseball, but the Philly Sillys books have been entertaining me since I read book one last year. In this book we get to see a whole new side to the team as they create their own romance book club that they host in their locker room. It was really refreshing to see a more sensitive side of Ender, our MMC, in addition to his golden retriever personality. I also liked seeing our FMC, Tiffiny, as a romance reader and getting to see her fantasies come to life.
Overall, I am giving this book four stars. It’s not my favorite book ever, but I was entertained while reading it. I hope that the author does a book for each of the players on the team so we can see them get their own happily ever afters. As long as these books are coming out, I will be reading them.
Phillys Sillys Baseball Book #2
Tiffiny, mascot for the Phillys Sillys baseball team, thought her life couldn’t get any worse until she is forced to work with her ex, Ender, the only man she ever loved.
Tropes Include:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Second Chance Romance
-Workplace Romance
-Baseball Pitcher x Mascot
I have not read a lot of baseball romance, however I have been on a sports romance kick recently. Last year I got to read the first book in the Philly Sillys series and this year I was more than happy to pick up book two.
Working the Mound happens parallel to the first book, so we’re seeing a lot of new scenes of our new main character, Tiffany, talking with the main character of the first book, Cadence, and getting more insight into the first book events from a new perspective.
I do not know much about entertainment league baseball, but the Philly Sillys books have been entertaining me since I read book one last year. In this book we get to see a whole new side to the team as they create their own romance book club that they host in their locker room. It was really refreshing to see a more sensitive side of Ender, our MMC, in addition to his golden retriever personality. I also liked seeing our FMC, Tiffiny, as a romance reader and getting to see her fantasies come to life.
Overall, I am giving this book four stars. It’s not my favorite book ever, but I was entertained while reading it. I hope that the author does a book for each of the players on the team so we can see them get their own happily ever afters. As long as these books are coming out, I will be reading them.
May 5, 2026
I was given this book as an eARC, but def after release date and was told to be blatantly honest with my review…so here goes.
Was this the best book I’ve ever read? No.
Was this the worst book I’ve ever read? Also no.
I enjoyed it and it made me LOL a few times. This was a cute little Savannah Bananas type baseball 2nd chance romance book and I liked it, but I didn’t love it. I wasn’t rushing home from work to read it. I don’t see myself dying to get the next one, but if I come across it I might pick it up. Also wasn’t aware this was book 2 and that’s probably on me 😂
Also def 3.7⭐️
Was this the best book I’ve ever read? No.
Was this the worst book I’ve ever read? Also no.
I enjoyed it and it made me LOL a few times. This was a cute little Savannah Bananas type baseball 2nd chance romance book and I liked it, but I didn’t love it. I wasn’t rushing home from work to read it. I don’t see myself dying to get the next one, but if I come across it I might pick it up. Also wasn’t aware this was book 2 and that’s probably on me 😂
Also def 3.7⭐️
March 22, 2026
When a book can make you laugh as hard as I did in this one it’s an immediate 5 star. I seriously am obsessed with K. Iwancio’s ability to write with such a sense of humor.
I love sports romance, but add some spice, humor and a golden retriever MMC who learns to love Smut and I’m obsessed!
I just want to keep going but I know it will reveal spoilers and you have to experience this yourself. I HIGHLY recommend this series and cannot wait for book 3!
I love sports romance, but add some spice, humor and a golden retriever MMC who learns to love Smut and I’m obsessed!
I just want to keep going but I know it will reveal spoilers and you have to experience this yourself. I HIGHLY recommend this series and cannot wait for book 3!
March 26, 2026
this book is fun! not every read needs to be super serious, and this one made me giggle every chapter. I didn't like it as much as the first book in the series (I'm not a consistent fan of second-chance romances), but it was still very cute and made me smile. If you want a relaxed romantic read, I definitely recommend this series! Particularly if you're a Philly local, being from the area has made the books even more fun for me.
(side note: I almost exclusively read this book on SEPTA while commuting, and it feels appropriate to have done so)
(side note: I almost exclusively read this book on SEPTA while commuting, and it feels appropriate to have done so)
March 30, 2026
I loved that the time line ran Parallel with Nailed at Home Plate. This is a super cute second chance romance full of laughs. The guys and their book club are hilarious! It really makes me wish this was a real team we could cheer on in Philly!
April 7, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for the complimentary advance copy of this!
This book is out now!
I was a big fan of the first book of this series and was excited when this book landed in my inbox!! This couple was hinted in the first and you knew that the tension was going to be good between Tiffiny and Ender.
Tiffiny is the Philly Silly's mascot, Ding-Dong and Ender is the new pitcher for the Philly Sillys. So they are always around each other but Tiffiny just can't let go the pain that Ender inflicted when he broke up with her their senior year. They had not really had any resolution and it just was hard for her to see him all the time while working. Ender though on the other hand just wanted to have some sort of relationship with Tiffiny. He knew that she was it for him. Her brother Cooper is who recruited Ender to join the team and he also is the one who gave Ender the heads up to read romance novels. And that is where he started to get into Tiffiny's good graces.
I love the fact that they could bond over these romance books. I remember when Iwancio was crowdsourcing the name for the bookclub for the team. I love the name Pitching Tents and thought it was a perfect name! I love all the guys in this book and cannot wait to see them in the future books.
"Because when you fall for someone, genuinely fall for them, it hits you like a freight train. Running you over again and again, all while you lay there, beaten and bloodied with the biggest, stupidest grin on your face."
One thing that I love that Iwancio does so well is when she starts the spice, the spice really hits!!! These two characters just loved each so much and cared about each other and that reflected in how they were intimate. Ender just was so in love with Iffy (his nickname for her) and was willing to do whatever it takes. Tiffiny knew that there was just no escaping him or her feelings for him that never went away. And because of this their chemistry was just off the chart!
I am not sure exactly of their ages but my only small hang up with this couple is that I wish they had dated other people between their break up until now. Just because I think that that dating and figuring out what they like and don't want in a relationship would just make them better people and a better partner. But I also can see that it is romantic for them to only be in love with one another.
I really enjoyed this and I'm looking forward to more books from the other members of the team! You do not necessarily need to read the first one to read this one. This book takes place at the same time as the first book (timelines overlap) but I recommend reading it because I loved it. But this book is a second chance romance, mascot costume fun, workplace romance and it's always you been you vibe.
This book is out now!
I was a big fan of the first book of this series and was excited when this book landed in my inbox!! This couple was hinted in the first and you knew that the tension was going to be good between Tiffiny and Ender.
Tiffiny is the Philly Silly's mascot, Ding-Dong and Ender is the new pitcher for the Philly Sillys. So they are always around each other but Tiffiny just can't let go the pain that Ender inflicted when he broke up with her their senior year. They had not really had any resolution and it just was hard for her to see him all the time while working. Ender though on the other hand just wanted to have some sort of relationship with Tiffiny. He knew that she was it for him. Her brother Cooper is who recruited Ender to join the team and he also is the one who gave Ender the heads up to read romance novels. And that is where he started to get into Tiffiny's good graces.
I love the fact that they could bond over these romance books. I remember when Iwancio was crowdsourcing the name for the bookclub for the team. I love the name Pitching Tents and thought it was a perfect name! I love all the guys in this book and cannot wait to see them in the future books.
"Because when you fall for someone, genuinely fall for them, it hits you like a freight train. Running you over again and again, all while you lay there, beaten and bloodied with the biggest, stupidest grin on your face."
One thing that I love that Iwancio does so well is when she starts the spice, the spice really hits!!! These two characters just loved each so much and cared about each other and that reflected in how they were intimate. Ender just was so in love with Iffy (his nickname for her) and was willing to do whatever it takes. Tiffiny knew that there was just no escaping him or her feelings for him that never went away. And because of this their chemistry was just off the chart!
I am not sure exactly of their ages but my only small hang up with this couple is that I wish they had dated other people between their break up until now. Just because I think that that dating and figuring out what they like and don't want in a relationship would just make them better people and a better partner. But I also can see that it is romantic for them to only be in love with one another.
I really enjoyed this and I'm looking forward to more books from the other members of the team! You do not necessarily need to read the first one to read this one. This book takes place at the same time as the first book (timelines overlap) but I recommend reading it because I loved it. But this book is a second chance romance, mascot costume fun, workplace romance and it's always you been you vibe.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
⭐ 4
🌶️ 2.5
🥵 Spicy Chapters: 23, 24, 26, 27, 29, 30
❤️🔥 Swoon Factor: 2.5
👫 Tiffiny+ Ender
📚 Tropes/Themes: sports romance, baseball romance, second chance, first love, it's always been you
👀 Dual POV 1st person
💔 Content warnings: none
🎀 Special editions: none
I wanted to love this book but I didn't 😭 I gave it 4⭐ as an objective review on the quality of the writing and my perception of what the larger romance world will think of it, but my personal experience was closer to 2.5⭐ because a lot of the stuff in here was not my preferences.
The biggest one being at least the first half is more focused on how overcome they are with lust for each other. I will always be more of an emotional-feelings-and-swoon girlie over sexy-pants-tightening-and-thighs-clenching-yearning. I guess it was to emphasize how they can't stay away from each other despite the hurt that Ender caused her. I like spice and purposely seek out spicy books but this was a little too much lusting for me.
I also noticed a lot of repetitive phrases within chapters, which would pull me out of the story.
Along with that, while I agree with the authors stance on romance books it felt really heavy handed in the story. There was a large chunk of the story dedicated to talking about negative perceptions and stereotypes of romance books/readers. I'm all for authors using their platforms to speak on topics they are passionate about but it took me out of the story. (I did cackle quite a bit at the Pitching Tents Book Club though)
The ending is super low angst which was unexpected. I didn't hate it but l just surprised I guess?
Annndddd I'm not a fan of groveling.
After about the first half though, the lusting died down as Ender and Iffy started to work through their issues and there were some seriously swoony moments. I loved how he's so down bad for her, and his goofy golden retriever energy. Tiffiny was just very grumpy, but I guess I get it 🤣
I guess now I'm glad I didn't have time to read the first book, Nailed at Home Plate because I'm not sure if I want to read it now, but I'm also slightly confused. I read the first two books in her Scottish B&B series and LOVED them so I'm not sure if I'm misremembering those or what.
Ultimately though, aside from the repetitive phrasing I think the book is a fun, smutty, easy read and if you enjoy the things that aren't my jam, I enthusiastically recommend this book.
🌶️ 2.5
🥵 Spicy Chapters: 23, 24, 26, 27, 29, 30
❤️🔥 Swoon Factor: 2.5
👫 Tiffiny+ Ender
📚 Tropes/Themes: sports romance, baseball romance, second chance, first love, it's always been you
👀 Dual POV 1st person
💔 Content warnings: none
🎀 Special editions: none
I wanted to love this book but I didn't 😭 I gave it 4⭐ as an objective review on the quality of the writing and my perception of what the larger romance world will think of it, but my personal experience was closer to 2.5⭐ because a lot of the stuff in here was not my preferences.
The biggest one being at least the first half is more focused on how overcome they are with lust for each other. I will always be more of an emotional-feelings-and-swoon girlie over sexy-pants-tightening-and-thighs-clenching-yearning. I guess it was to emphasize how they can't stay away from each other despite the hurt that Ender caused her. I like spice and purposely seek out spicy books but this was a little too much lusting for me.
I also noticed a lot of repetitive phrases within chapters, which would pull me out of the story.
Along with that, while I agree with the authors stance on romance books it felt really heavy handed in the story. There was a large chunk of the story dedicated to talking about negative perceptions and stereotypes of romance books/readers. I'm all for authors using their platforms to speak on topics they are passionate about but it took me out of the story. (I did cackle quite a bit at the Pitching Tents Book Club though)
The ending is super low angst which was unexpected. I didn't hate it but l just surprised I guess?
Annndddd I'm not a fan of groveling.
After about the first half though, the lusting died down as Ender and Iffy started to work through their issues and there were some seriously swoony moments. I loved how he's so down bad for her, and his goofy golden retriever energy. Tiffiny was just very grumpy, but I guess I get it 🤣
I guess now I'm glad I didn't have time to read the first book, Nailed at Home Plate because I'm not sure if I want to read it now, but I'm also slightly confused. I read the first two books in her Scottish B&B series and LOVED them so I'm not sure if I'm misremembering those or what.
Ultimately though, aside from the repetitive phrasing I think the book is a fun, smutty, easy read and if you enjoy the things that aren't my jam, I enthusiastically recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
being as my favorite person in the whole wide world, max fried, is a pitcher, i have been ANXIOUSLY awaiting the opportunity to read this. and also k let me have workingthemound as my threads username. anyway, job well done, k.
working the mound captivates you from the very beginning. our leading characters, tiffiny and ender, are so lovable and relatable. tiffiny and ender work together as part of the philly sillys organization, philadelphia's version of the savannah bananas. tiffiny parades around games in a liberty bell costume as the team's mascot 'ding dong' while ender tops the silly's rotation. they had a relationship back in high school, only for ender to dump tiffiny for a chance to go out with the popular girl. tiffiny's been nursing a grudge since and is determined to let ender have it for the rest of his days. what tiffiny doesn't know, though, is that ender never actually went through with his desire to date the popular girl and, now that he's back in her orbit, he's determined to have the opportunity to rekindle things with her. he'll even go so far as to read her favorite books and treat her to dates at a local bookstore. tiffiny isn't so easily won over, though, as the wound ender left in her heart and trust is a deep one. what follows is 300 pages of a swoonworthy second chance romance.
i fear saying anything too specific as i don't want to be the one to spoil crucial plot lines. but this book is genuinely SO ADORABLE. i love how unabashedly down bad ender is for tiffiny. the way he describes the way her skin radiates in the afternoon sunlight. he asks her for book recommendations AND ACTUALLY READS HER FAVORITE BOOKS AND NOTES PLOT POINTS AND SEX SCENES. AND HE ACTUALLY ENCORPORATES THEM INTO THE BEDROOM. and i loved that he has a playlist of songs that make him think of her. that is so me core. anyway, i need a partner that is that dedicated to appreciating and respecting my interests.
all that to say, i cannot WAIT to get my own physical copy of this book and annotate all my favorite lines. i'm honored to share a username with this book <3
working the mound captivates you from the very beginning. our leading characters, tiffiny and ender, are so lovable and relatable. tiffiny and ender work together as part of the philly sillys organization, philadelphia's version of the savannah bananas. tiffiny parades around games in a liberty bell costume as the team's mascot 'ding dong' while ender tops the silly's rotation. they had a relationship back in high school, only for ender to dump tiffiny for a chance to go out with the popular girl. tiffiny's been nursing a grudge since and is determined to let ender have it for the rest of his days. what tiffiny doesn't know, though, is that ender never actually went through with his desire to date the popular girl and, now that he's back in her orbit, he's determined to have the opportunity to rekindle things with her. he'll even go so far as to read her favorite books and treat her to dates at a local bookstore. tiffiny isn't so easily won over, though, as the wound ender left in her heart and trust is a deep one. what follows is 300 pages of a swoonworthy second chance romance.
i fear saying anything too specific as i don't want to be the one to spoil crucial plot lines. but this book is genuinely SO ADORABLE. i love how unabashedly down bad ender is for tiffiny. the way he describes the way her skin radiates in the afternoon sunlight. he asks her for book recommendations AND ACTUALLY READS HER FAVORITE BOOKS AND NOTES PLOT POINTS AND SEX SCENES. AND HE ACTUALLY ENCORPORATES THEM INTO THE BEDROOM. and i loved that he has a playlist of songs that make him think of her. that is so me core. anyway, i need a partner that is that dedicated to appreciating and respecting my interests.
all that to say, i cannot WAIT to get my own physical copy of this book and annotate all my favorite lines. i'm honored to share a username with this book <3
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ll be honest... I went into Working the Mound by K. Iwancio a little hesitant. I wasn’t the biggest fan of book one and had some pretty strong critiques, so I wasn’t sure what to expect here. But I really wanted to give it a fair shot (especially because I love baseball and the Savannah Bananas vibe), and I’m so glad I did!
This was SUCH an improvement. Like, truly light years ahead of the first book, in the best way possible. You can tell the author really listened to feedback because everything just felt stronger, smoother, and more engaging.
This book was fun, hot, sweet, and had just the right amount of angst and emotional depth. I thought the second chance romance was done really well, and I LOVED how completely down bad Ender was for Tiffiny. Even with all the miscommunication and misunderstandings, that man was gone for her from day one and never looked back. The groveling was top tier, I must say.
Also, the “locker room book club” had me cracking up. The guys getting into romance (and monster romance!) was hilarious, and the audiobook conversations were way too real. You can tell K. knows her audience and was having fun with it.
Tiffiny as the mascot in the Liberty Bell costume was such a unique and fun touch and it made the whole story stand out even more. And the chemistry between her and Ender was really so good. The spice was done really well, and the added artwork??? I was not prepared BUT I LOVED IT!
And can we TALK about the “crawl to me” moment?? From HER to HIM?? Yeah… I felt that.
I think this was outstanding and such a huge step up from book one. I’m officially back on board for this series! I’m excited for Benson’s book next!
Thank you to K. Iwancio for the eARC of this book.
This was SUCH an improvement. Like, truly light years ahead of the first book, in the best way possible. You can tell the author really listened to feedback because everything just felt stronger, smoother, and more engaging.
This book was fun, hot, sweet, and had just the right amount of angst and emotional depth. I thought the second chance romance was done really well, and I LOVED how completely down bad Ender was for Tiffiny. Even with all the miscommunication and misunderstandings, that man was gone for her from day one and never looked back. The groveling was top tier, I must say.
Also, the “locker room book club” had me cracking up. The guys getting into romance (and monster romance!) was hilarious, and the audiobook conversations were way too real. You can tell K. knows her audience and was having fun with it.
Tiffiny as the mascot in the Liberty Bell costume was such a unique and fun touch and it made the whole story stand out even more. And the chemistry between her and Ender was really so good. The spice was done really well, and the added artwork??? I was not prepared BUT I LOVED IT!
And can we TALK about the “crawl to me” moment?? From HER to HIM?? Yeah… I felt that.
I think this was outstanding and such a huge step up from book one. I’m officially back on board for this series! I’m excited for Benson’s book next!
Thank you to K. Iwancio for the eARC of this book.
April 4, 2026
First of all, before I say anything about the book I just want to note that I personally think that K. Iwancio is a must read author! Every book of hers brings laughter, joy and happiness to my reading life.
Reminder that I'm only one person, my experience will never speak for more than me alone. Sports romances aren't my typical read but getting to know these characters has been fun! Tiffiny was one of my favorite characters from the first book, her sass and wit was refreshing! That continues in this book. She's not a woman who is afraid to stand her ground and get what she wants. It was lovely to see more of her vulnerable side in this book. In my personal opinion, I liked Ender less mostly because I felt like his character fell a little flat for me. His only real things he has are his adoration for Tiffiny and baseball. I just wanted him to have a little more going on, like a group of friends outside it all or a therapist or something 🤣 I don't know. I just wanted him to have more in his life. Seems unhealthy. But listen, I loved the way Tiffiny made him work for it and arguably that's my favorite thing in the book. And honestly, I actually could have lived without the spice in this one, the buildup was just the best.
Overall, this book is well written, easily readable, the characters are funny and witty and their love story is sweet and consistent. I enjoy these books because I know I'm going to feel all the emotions when I read them, and at the end of it all I'm going to be left with a happy memory of reading to look back on.
I genuinely can't wait for the next book in this series.
Thanks for always writing fun books, K! 😁
Reminder that I'm only one person, my experience will never speak for more than me alone. Sports romances aren't my typical read but getting to know these characters has been fun! Tiffiny was one of my favorite characters from the first book, her sass and wit was refreshing! That continues in this book. She's not a woman who is afraid to stand her ground and get what she wants. It was lovely to see more of her vulnerable side in this book. In my personal opinion, I liked Ender less mostly because I felt like his character fell a little flat for me. His only real things he has are his adoration for Tiffiny and baseball. I just wanted him to have a little more going on, like a group of friends outside it all or a therapist or something 🤣 I don't know. I just wanted him to have more in his life. Seems unhealthy. But listen, I loved the way Tiffiny made him work for it and arguably that's my favorite thing in the book. And honestly, I actually could have lived without the spice in this one, the buildup was just the best.
Overall, this book is well written, easily readable, the characters are funny and witty and their love story is sweet and consistent. I enjoy these books because I know I'm going to feel all the emotions when I read them, and at the end of it all I'm going to be left with a happy memory of reading to look back on.
I genuinely can't wait for the next book in this series.
Thanks for always writing fun books, K! 😁
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read Working the Mound as an ARC, and I had the time of my life! Working the Mound is the second book in the Philly Sillys series, which follows an entertainment league baseball team inspired by the Savannah Bananas.
In this book, we focus on Tiffiny, who works as the team's liberty bell mascot, and Ender, the team's newest starting pitcher. When Tiffiny isn't working the crowd at a Philly Sillys game, she has her nose in a book - usually a spicy romance book, even though she has essentially sworn off romance in her own life. Ender is Tiffiny's ex, who has never stopped pining for her. When he joins the Philly Sillys and comes face to face with the woman he could never move on from, he makes a plan to win her back.
With first love/second chance, workplace romance, goldren retreiver/black cat, and slow burn tropes, this story is full of romance clichés, but rather than feeling like clichés, the author embraces and celebrates the world of romance books and the readers who love them, so it feels intentional and somewhat tongue-in-cheek. The author has also provided a spotify playlist to enhance the story, and while I don't do well listening to songs with lyrics while reading, I did listen to each chapter's song after reading the chapter. The musical supplement provides another layer of emotional connection, especially in those chapters with major events.
This book was a fun ride from start to finish. I absolutely loved it, and cannot wait to read more in the Philly Sillys series!
In this book, we focus on Tiffiny, who works as the team's liberty bell mascot, and Ender, the team's newest starting pitcher. When Tiffiny isn't working the crowd at a Philly Sillys game, she has her nose in a book - usually a spicy romance book, even though she has essentially sworn off romance in her own life. Ender is Tiffiny's ex, who has never stopped pining for her. When he joins the Philly Sillys and comes face to face with the woman he could never move on from, he makes a plan to win her back.
With first love/second chance, workplace romance, goldren retreiver/black cat, and slow burn tropes, this story is full of romance clichés, but rather than feeling like clichés, the author embraces and celebrates the world of romance books and the readers who love them, so it feels intentional and somewhat tongue-in-cheek. The author has also provided a spotify playlist to enhance the story, and while I don't do well listening to songs with lyrics while reading, I did listen to each chapter's song after reading the chapter. The musical supplement provides another layer of emotional connection, especially in those chapters with major events.
This book was a fun ride from start to finish. I absolutely loved it, and cannot wait to read more in the Philly Sillys series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you like baseball, smut and smutty baseball-puns, then this is the book for you! K. Iwancio's "Working the Mound" is the second book in A Philly Sillys Romance series. The Philly Sillys are an Entertainment League Baseball team based in Philadelphia. Tiffiny Campanaro is Ding Dong, the Liberty Bell mascot who has it out for one particular pitcher. Ender Roche is the star pitcher. And yep, you guessed it - they get it ~ ON ~
Tiffiny and Ender's romance is a slow burn, second chance and forbidden workplace romance. The slow burn was a little too slow for me, but it definitely got interesting once things started to heat up. I also don't particularly like stories about high school exes getting back together, no matter how many years have passed, but this was written in a very endearing way, and you were actively rooting for them.
I also enjoyed the callbacks and elaborations to the first book, "Nailed at Home Plate." This book is not nearly as spicy or filthy as the first one, but I thought it matched Tiffiny and Ender's personalities well. We FINALLY got to know how Ender landed himself in the hospital on a big game day. It was absolutely sex related, as I predicted, but the exact scenario made me gasp OH NO.
Overall the book was fun and flirty, but did not have me questioning, "do people really do that?" like it had in the first one. It looks like a third Philly Sillys romance novel is coming, and I hope there's a wedding scene that the team gets to attend.
Tiffiny and Ender's romance is a slow burn, second chance and forbidden workplace romance. The slow burn was a little too slow for me, but it definitely got interesting once things started to heat up. I also don't particularly like stories about high school exes getting back together, no matter how many years have passed, but this was written in a very endearing way, and you were actively rooting for them.
I also enjoyed the callbacks and elaborations to the first book, "Nailed at Home Plate." This book is not nearly as spicy or filthy as the first one, but I thought it matched Tiffiny and Ender's personalities well. We FINALLY got to know how Ender landed himself in the hospital on a big game day. It was absolutely sex related, as I predicted, but the exact scenario made me gasp OH NO.
Overall the book was fun and flirty, but did not have me questioning, "do people really do that?" like it had in the first one. It looks like a third Philly Sillys romance novel is coming, and I hope there's a wedding scene that the team gets to attend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2026
Our FMC is Tiffiny and our MMC is Ender. This is a slow burn second chance workplace romance. Tiffiny and Ender used to date in high school until Ender broke her heart. He was thinking with his dick rather than his heart. Tiffiny has been holding a grudge for years over this. What both of them don’t realize is the other has feelings for them.
I love the walk through of Ender and Tiffiny getting back together. It starts out with Tiffiny still hating Ender. Then moves to the realizing their feelings for each other. Then they start working on everything to get back together.
I love the way Ender listens and takes notes on Tiffiny’s interests and involves himself in them to woo her back. The Silly’s having their own book club had me cracking up. The name for the book club almost brought tears to my eyes.
Ender listens and listens well. He reads Tiffiny like an open book. He remembers what she likes from the books he reads that she suggests, to her favorite food. He brings ideas from books into the bedroom. He’s Tiffiny’s real life book boyfriend.
I love books like this where you can place this book’s timeline in line with the first book and pick out what was happening when and get the full view.
In the end, this book is a great sports romance. Had me 🥵 during some of the chapters. I loved it.
I love the walk through of Ender and Tiffiny getting back together. It starts out with Tiffiny still hating Ender. Then moves to the realizing their feelings for each other. Then they start working on everything to get back together.
I love the way Ender listens and takes notes on Tiffiny’s interests and involves himself in them to woo her back. The Silly’s having their own book club had me cracking up. The name for the book club almost brought tears to my eyes.
Ender listens and listens well. He reads Tiffiny like an open book. He remembers what she likes from the books he reads that she suggests, to her favorite food. He brings ideas from books into the bedroom. He’s Tiffiny’s real life book boyfriend.
I love books like this where you can place this book’s timeline in line with the first book and pick out what was happening when and get the full view.
In the end, this book is a great sports romance. Had me 🥵 during some of the chapters. I loved it.
March 25, 2026
Oh my goodness! What a fun time!! The second “Philly Silly’s” book didn’t disappoint! 🔔💙⚾️
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (rounded up to 4)
I am a sucker for second chance romance.. especially when the mmc is down bad and he GROVELS for a second chance! Even better when he CRAWLS for his woman! 🥵
Ender and Tiffiny were the cutest couple! She had obvious trust issues after Ender broke her heart in high school to chase the popular girl on campus. But now, he’s back in her life when he joins the Philly Silly’s as the pitcher and Tiffiny is the Silly’s Mascot!
💙What I loved? That Ender won Tiffiny back with learning about her taste in books… he did his homework and committed to the long game of winning her back. The boy’s book club also cracked me up! And that spicy scene with her still in costume?! 🥵🌶️🔥 You’d think it would be weird… but Ender was so into it which made it hot!
✨Why did I knock off 2 stars? Ender’s whole story of not being with anyone else wasn’t super believable… I mean, it showed he was set on getting his woman back, but I don’t really buy it when the whole reason he broke up with her was to chase some other tail. And why didn’t Tiffiny share her story about Ender with Cadence?! That didn’t make sense.. my besties know all of my drama! Also, “Iffy” as a nickname was a little strange.
Overall- fun read if you love a silly sports romcom! 🥰⚾️💙
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (rounded up to 4)
I am a sucker for second chance romance.. especially when the mmc is down bad and he GROVELS for a second chance! Even better when he CRAWLS for his woman! 🥵
Ender and Tiffiny were the cutest couple! She had obvious trust issues after Ender broke her heart in high school to chase the popular girl on campus. But now, he’s back in her life when he joins the Philly Silly’s as the pitcher and Tiffiny is the Silly’s Mascot!
💙What I loved? That Ender won Tiffiny back with learning about her taste in books… he did his homework and committed to the long game of winning her back. The boy’s book club also cracked me up! And that spicy scene with her still in costume?! 🥵🌶️🔥 You’d think it would be weird… but Ender was so into it which made it hot!
✨Why did I knock off 2 stars? Ender’s whole story of not being with anyone else wasn’t super believable… I mean, it showed he was set on getting his woman back, but I don’t really buy it when the whole reason he broke up with her was to chase some other tail. And why didn’t Tiffiny share her story about Ender with Cadence?! That didn’t make sense.. my besties know all of my drama! Also, “Iffy” as a nickname was a little strange.
Overall- fun read if you love a silly sports romcom! 🥰⚾️💙
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader in this book. I wish I could say that I picked up all the typos and punctuation stuff…Not at all…I read for vibes and a good time and it DELIVERED. This book like the mascot was controlled chaos. I personally never like or want to read second chance romances it is a trope that I struggle to get into.This however is the only one I will defend to my dying breath. It. is. that. good.
I specifically wanted to address the fact the author has been paying attention to social media and obviously is a reader herself. It makes the reading experience so much better. I am now mortified that my spicy books were overheard while I was waiting for a light to change….hopefully my headphones don’t betray me like my car…
Now the best part, the smut …oh no …excuse me the “Cliterature” was wonderfully written. The MMC started reading the books to get closer to her and then started applying his knowledge. The boy even applied his knowledge in the mascot suit. Shoot, If more men read this stuff….
Imagine the golden girls episode where Blanche is watering her plants in the kitchen. Having to use the spritzer to cool herself off…. That is how wonderfully written the scenes are in this book.
I specifically wanted to address the fact the author has been paying attention to social media and obviously is a reader herself. It makes the reading experience so much better. I am now mortified that my spicy books were overheard while I was waiting for a light to change….hopefully my headphones don’t betray me like my car…
Now the best part, the smut …oh no …excuse me the “Cliterature” was wonderfully written. The MMC started reading the books to get closer to her and then started applying his knowledge. The boy even applied his knowledge in the mascot suit. Shoot, If more men read this stuff….
Imagine the golden girls episode where Blanche is watering her plants in the kitchen. Having to use the spritzer to cool herself off…. That is how wonderfully written the scenes are in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
- Baseball romance
- Second chance
- Close proximity
- Workplace romance
- He knows he messed up
As a PA girl, I absolutely loved seeing all of the iconic call outs to our state. Hello Turkey Hill Iced Tea! It made me so giggly to know all of the references. This made me feel like part of the story and really made the read that much more special.
The one thing I love about this author's book is the relatable writing style she has. Yeah, Tiffiny is a bit much at times, but I'd still be her bestie.
I have always been a fan of second chances and this one was very unique. Ender knew he made a huge mistake in high school ending his relationship with Tiffiny to pursue a vapid cheerleader type. He has spent the last 10 years filled with regret. I mean, at least he didn't cheat, but wow, what an ahole move.
Tiffiny has never truly gotten over the relationship and loses herself in romances. At least book boyfriends won't disappoint you!
It is so obvious right from the start that neither have really moved on. Tiffiny doesn't want to want Ender and Ender wants nothing more than Tiffiny. The way that he tried to win her over by way of her favorite books was genius! And it worked!
I giggled, sweated and stomped my feet reading this book. What a wild ride!
- Second chance
- Close proximity
- Workplace romance
- He knows he messed up
As a PA girl, I absolutely loved seeing all of the iconic call outs to our state. Hello Turkey Hill Iced Tea! It made me so giggly to know all of the references. This made me feel like part of the story and really made the read that much more special.
The one thing I love about this author's book is the relatable writing style she has. Yeah, Tiffiny is a bit much at times, but I'd still be her bestie.
I have always been a fan of second chances and this one was very unique. Ender knew he made a huge mistake in high school ending his relationship with Tiffiny to pursue a vapid cheerleader type. He has spent the last 10 years filled with regret. I mean, at least he didn't cheat, but wow, what an ahole move.
Tiffiny has never truly gotten over the relationship and loses herself in romances. At least book boyfriends won't disappoint you!
It is so obvious right from the start that neither have really moved on. Tiffiny doesn't want to want Ender and Ender wants nothing more than Tiffiny. The way that he tried to win her over by way of her favorite books was genius! And it worked!
I giggled, sweated and stomped my feet reading this book. What a wild ride!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ALL THE STARS!!!
The way this book had me kicking my feet and squealing!
When I say that I’m obsessed with this series… I mean…I’M OBSESSED WITH THIS.(envision the meme with Daniel from Schitt’s Creek)
The way I was rooting for this couple!
You have this FMC that is a total spit fire, she’s feisty and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. But she’s also still mending a broken heart, and those wounds are pretty deep.
Insert our MMC, he’s a tall drink of Philly Silly’s pitcher. He’s also the reason behind our FMC’s hardened heart…but not everything is as it seems… and we quickly learn that this MMC will do all the groveling and begging on his knees and off of his knees to win his mi amor back.
Between the hilarious banter…
The deliciously unhinged men’s book club name (I mean seriously… Pitching Tents Romance Book Club?!)….
All the panty melting chemistry…
And the swoon worthy romance….
This book hands down will live rent free in my head!
If you love those baseball players that dance around while they play (i know you’ve feel down that clock app rabbit hole), your romance books to have you cracking up laughing one minute and then fanning yourself in the next this little series is a must read!
The way this book had me kicking my feet and squealing!
When I say that I’m obsessed with this series… I mean…I’M OBSESSED WITH THIS.(envision the meme with Daniel from Schitt’s Creek)
The way I was rooting for this couple!
You have this FMC that is a total spit fire, she’s feisty and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. But she’s also still mending a broken heart, and those wounds are pretty deep.
Insert our MMC, he’s a tall drink of Philly Silly’s pitcher. He’s also the reason behind our FMC’s hardened heart…but not everything is as it seems… and we quickly learn that this MMC will do all the groveling and begging on his knees and off of his knees to win his mi amor back.
Between the hilarious banter…
The deliciously unhinged men’s book club name (I mean seriously… Pitching Tents Romance Book Club?!)….
All the panty melting chemistry…
And the swoon worthy romance….
This book hands down will live rent free in my head!
If you love those baseball players that dance around while they play (i know you’ve feel down that clock app rabbit hole), your romance books to have you cracking up laughing one minute and then fanning yourself in the next this little series is a must read!
March 25, 2026
Rating: Loved It / Slightly Obsessed
I love when a book runs concurrently with another in a series, and K. absolutely crushed it here. You don’t need Nailed at Home Plate to enjoy this, but if you’ve read it? The Easter eggs and callbacks will have you giggling and pointing like, “I KNOW THAT REFERENCE.” Honestly, that alone would’ve sold me, but K really said, "Hold my nachos in a baseball helmet."
Tiffiny had me from line one (literally, see quote on photo). She’s peak black cat energy. She's sharp, witty, a little emotionally unavailable (same, girl, same), and impossible not to love. But underneath all that bite, she’s still holding onto her first love…who just so happens to be on the team she mascots for. Pain. Delicious, messy pain.
And Ender?? Sir. One giant, walking green flag with a guilt complex. Sweet, attentive, and fully aware he fumbled the ball with Tiffiny years ago and has been legit suffering ever since. Watching this man work to win her back? The man was LITERALLY on his knees CRAWLING TO HER! 🥵🥵 Top-tier book boyfriend behavior. He even broke out his mom and her cooking, buying her all the dark romance and monster smut she could want, reading her spicy books and TAKING NOTES?? I was unwell. I was also snickering at the Pitching Tents club (iykyk) and, ma'am, if you ever
make a generic shirt with some logo for that club on it, I will take one (maybe 2).
This book feels like a warm hug wrapped in chaos. Ender being an absolute simp for Tiffiny healed
something in me I didn’t know needed healing. I was laughing, kicking my feet, and slightly losing my mind all at once.
I need Book 3 immediately. No notes.
Thank you, @k.iwancio_writes for the ARC. I adore you as a person and thank bananas that baseball is finally back!
I love when a book runs concurrently with another in a series, and K. absolutely crushed it here. You don’t need Nailed at Home Plate to enjoy this, but if you’ve read it? The Easter eggs and callbacks will have you giggling and pointing like, “I KNOW THAT REFERENCE.” Honestly, that alone would’ve sold me, but K really said, "Hold my nachos in a baseball helmet."
Tiffiny had me from line one (literally, see quote on photo). She’s peak black cat energy. She's sharp, witty, a little emotionally unavailable (same, girl, same), and impossible not to love. But underneath all that bite, she’s still holding onto her first love…who just so happens to be on the team she mascots for. Pain. Delicious, messy pain.
And Ender?? Sir. One giant, walking green flag with a guilt complex. Sweet, attentive, and fully aware he fumbled the ball with Tiffiny years ago and has been legit suffering ever since. Watching this man work to win her back? The man was LITERALLY on his knees CRAWLING TO HER! 🥵🥵 Top-tier book boyfriend behavior. He even broke out his mom and her cooking, buying her all the dark romance and monster smut she could want, reading her spicy books and TAKING NOTES?? I was unwell. I was also snickering at the Pitching Tents club (iykyk) and, ma'am, if you ever
make a generic shirt with some logo for that club on it, I will take one (maybe 2).
This book feels like a warm hug wrapped in chaos. Ender being an absolute simp for Tiffiny healed
something in me I didn’t know needed healing. I was laughing, kicking my feet, and slightly losing my mind all at once.
I need Book 3 immediately. No notes.
Thank you, @k.iwancio_writes for the ARC. I adore you as a person and thank bananas that baseball is finally back!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 rounded up to 4
Tiffany hopes that she can hide inside the Liberty Bell costume and avoid her ex now that he plays for the Philly Sillys. Ender may have missed his shot at the major leagues, but he's determined not to miss out on a second chance with the girl he should have never let go in the first place.
Read if you like:
-Second Change Romance
-It's Always Been You
-Banana Ball but make it Sports Romance
-Low Angst
I loved that much like the Banana Ball that inspired this series, Working the Mound didn't take itself too seriously. This was a sports romance but it was also a rom com. I found myself smiling like a fool at the team's antics, Ender's mom, and Tiffany and Ender's date gone wrong. This was the perfect mental escape after some of the heavier, angstier books I'd read recently. It's also the first Philly Sillys book I've read, so I'm excited to go back and pick up the first book now. It was fun and fresh as well as hopeful and happy. Second chance romances can sometimes be tricky, but I like that K. Iwancio started it from a teenage insecurity gave Tiffany and Ender a chance to grow before bringing them back together.
Tiffany hopes that she can hide inside the Liberty Bell costume and avoid her ex now that he plays for the Philly Sillys. Ender may have missed his shot at the major leagues, but he's determined not to miss out on a second chance with the girl he should have never let go in the first place.
Read if you like:
-Second Change Romance
-It's Always Been You
-Banana Ball but make it Sports Romance
-Low Angst
I loved that much like the Banana Ball that inspired this series, Working the Mound didn't take itself too seriously. This was a sports romance but it was also a rom com. I found myself smiling like a fool at the team's antics, Ender's mom, and Tiffany and Ender's date gone wrong. This was the perfect mental escape after some of the heavier, angstier books I'd read recently. It's also the first Philly Sillys book I've read, so I'm excited to go back and pick up the first book now. It was fun and fresh as well as hopeful and happy. Second chance romances can sometimes be tricky, but I like that K. Iwancio started it from a teenage insecurity gave Tiffany and Ender a chance to grow before bringing them back together.
March 27, 2026
Oh. My. Goodness. Just like the first book, this one was just so much fun!! I had such a blast reading this one!! Tiffiny was so fun and getting to watch her embrace her love of reading and theater, and hold her ground on her wants and needs was just so much fun! Her snark was blended so beautifully with her heart, and the ways that we got to see how she had grown through her past, were just so good!! Plus Ender was just everything!!! I loved seeing how he was fully aware of the hurt he had caused in the past, and fully accepted that, so that healing and moving forward was done so incredible well! His willingness to learn what he needed to in order to help Tiffiny move forward, and make her happy, was just incredible to watch!! These two were just the cutest, and I loved getting to watch them finally come to their sense together! And I really hope we get so much more of the Silly's and these men!! Overall this one was just a blast, and I loved every second!! 4.75 stars; 3.5 chili peppers
Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- Second Chance
- Groveling
- Baseball Team Book Club
- Meddling Friends
- Forced Proximity
Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- Second Chance
- Groveling
- Baseball Team Book Club
- Meddling Friends
- Forced Proximity
April 15, 2026
OHMYYGOOOODDDDD Ender IS that MAN!!! HE READS HER ROMANCE BOOKS TO GET TO KNOW HER AGAIN, HE READS HER REVIEUWS TO TAKE NOTES ON HER, HE TAKES HER ON BOOKSTORE DATES, HES STILL IN LOVE EITH HER FOR ALL THOSE YEARS, HE WOULD DO ANYTHING FOR HER, WOULD WAIT FOR HER FOR YEARS AND HE IS RESPECTFULL?!?!? Are u kidding meeeeee😫😫😫😫 He is the freaking standard!!!! I Tiffany is one lucky woman and she KNOWS it. Tiffany is really such a strong a d beautiful written FMC and the fact that her inner monologue was really just her refinding herself with Ender by herside. They where each others missing pieces and finally found each other again. The pain tiffany still felt was valid and it broke my heart for her and Ender. To feel enders heart break for his everything bc something he did and the fact he did everhtjing to mske her happy again. Ugh the man is a SIMP for her and im HERE for it.🥹🥹🥹 I LOVE TIFFANY and her love for books. I just really love the relationship tiffany and ender rebuild it was beautiful. I also found out i might kinda like mascot romances hahah. I cant wait for book 3 and read about this family of baseball boys finding love bwhaha
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2026
The premise of this book is intriguing: High school flames reunited years later. He's the hotshot pitcher and she's the team's mascot. He's desperate for a second chance; she's heart-hardened by the way he's treated her in the past. Add a unique setting—entertainment baseball = serious sport + silly atmosphere!—and it seems we have a recipe for success.
Unfortunately, this book needed more time in the oven. The characters are not especially meaty and the conversations/banter often feel stilted and forced. I wish the story did a better job of "showing, not telling" the history between the couple, and how it impacts their interactions today. It's a cute idea to use the FMC's love of romance novels as an entre point for the MMC's grovel, but please remember the book's audience—we're already romance readers, we don't need the genre and online community mansplained to us.
The first book in the series is stronger than this sophomore attempt. The bones are there, but it doesn't quite have the polish it needs.
Unfortunately, this book needed more time in the oven. The characters are not especially meaty and the conversations/banter often feel stilted and forced. I wish the story did a better job of "showing, not telling" the history between the couple, and how it impacts their interactions today. It's a cute idea to use the FMC's love of romance novels as an entre point for the MMC's grovel, but please remember the book's audience—we're already romance readers, we don't need the genre and online community mansplained to us.
The first book in the series is stronger than this sophomore attempt. The bones are there, but it doesn't quite have the polish it needs.
March 30, 2026
"Hey, the praise kink goes both ways, Iffy."
K. Iwancio knocked another banana ball romance out of the park!
Tiffiny & Ender's book was so cute & honestly it blew my expectations out of the water. Sorry Jamie & Cadence but you have nothing on these two. Don't get me wrong Nailed at Home Plate was cute but Working The Mound was so much more! Tiffiny was perfect as the grumpy in our grumpy x sunshine mix and honestly there are not enough words to explain how on point Ender was.
He CRAWLS to her y'all!
I loved the way the K. Iwancio incorporated reading & book boyfriends into the entire story. I got a laugh out of the teams book club name, Pitching Tents Romance Book Club and honestly would 100% rock a shirt with that book club logo on it! 10/10!
Working The Mound was such a wonderful mixture of humor, baseball and spice. I loved the couple little instances of fourth wall breaking, like with the mascot (iykyk). The fact that the timeline for Working The Mound and Nailed at Home Plate overlapped a little but didn't spoil each other much was so perfectly done.
Ender by far is my top choice on the Philly Sillys roster currently but I am very excited to get to know the other players.
K. Iwancio knocked another banana ball romance out of the park!
Tiffiny & Ender's book was so cute & honestly it blew my expectations out of the water. Sorry Jamie & Cadence but you have nothing on these two. Don't get me wrong Nailed at Home Plate was cute but Working The Mound was so much more! Tiffiny was perfect as the grumpy in our grumpy x sunshine mix and honestly there are not enough words to explain how on point Ender was.
He CRAWLS to her y'all!
I loved the way the K. Iwancio incorporated reading & book boyfriends into the entire story. I got a laugh out of the teams book club name, Pitching Tents Romance Book Club and honestly would 100% rock a shirt with that book club logo on it! 10/10!
Working The Mound was such a wonderful mixture of humor, baseball and spice. I loved the couple little instances of fourth wall breaking, like with the mascot (iykyk). The fact that the timeline for Working The Mound and Nailed at Home Plate overlapped a little but didn't spoil each other much was so perfectly done.
Ender by far is my top choice on the Philly Sillys roster currently but I am very excited to get to know the other players.
March 27, 2026
ARC review
What a fun story!
Tiffiny: the current mascot for an entertainment baseball team...that her high school ex just started playing for. The guy who broke her heart many years ago by breaking up with her for the chance to sleep with the most popular girl in school, now the man obsessed in front of her. Will egging him on with the things she reads in romance books scare him off, or just educate him and turn him into the most perfect book boyfriend just for her?
Ender: the man who made the biggest mistake of his life by breaking up with the woman he loves, only to not be able to touch anyone else because all he can think about is her. Now that he plays for the team she works for, he may have a second chance. He shows an interest in the books she reads and enjoys the spice but also the emotional depth in them. Will taking the best parts of all the books he's read help him become the man that Tiffiny wants and needs?
Would suggest to others, and excited to read other books in the series!
What a fun story!
Tiffiny: the current mascot for an entertainment baseball team...that her high school ex just started playing for. The guy who broke her heart many years ago by breaking up with her for the chance to sleep with the most popular girl in school, now the man obsessed in front of her. Will egging him on with the things she reads in romance books scare him off, or just educate him and turn him into the most perfect book boyfriend just for her?
Ender: the man who made the biggest mistake of his life by breaking up with the woman he loves, only to not be able to touch anyone else because all he can think about is her. Now that he plays for the team she works for, he may have a second chance. He shows an interest in the books she reads and enjoys the spice but also the emotional depth in them. Will taking the best parts of all the books he's read help him become the man that Tiffiny wants and needs?
Would suggest to others, and excited to read other books in the series!
April 1, 2026
"I may or may not have regrettably searched him on the internet in a drunken haze somewhere in the middle of my third bottle of wine a few weeks ago."
An enjoyable, light read that combines a second-chance romance with the fun and comedy of the Savannah Bananas.
Once-scorned-in-love Tiffiny is working as the mascot for the Philly Sillys, a Entertainment League Baseball team, and is determined not to allow her unresolved feelings for the new pitcher to interfere with her life. Ender, the new pitcher and Tiffiny's high-school sweetheart, has other plans. Ender has wanted Tiffiny back since the day he let her go, and is determined to use her love of books to help win her heart--the man literally takes notes on her favorites and crawls for her.
Perfect for a light read if you want something to make you laugh and kick your feet.
3 stars due to some minor pacing issues, but overall an enjoyable read with a decent amount of spice.
*I read this book as an eBook ARC copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
An enjoyable, light read that combines a second-chance romance with the fun and comedy of the Savannah Bananas.
Once-scorned-in-love Tiffiny is working as the mascot for the Philly Sillys, a Entertainment League Baseball team, and is determined not to allow her unresolved feelings for the new pitcher to interfere with her life. Ender, the new pitcher and Tiffiny's high-school sweetheart, has other plans. Ender has wanted Tiffiny back since the day he let her go, and is determined to use her love of books to help win her heart--the man literally takes notes on her favorites and crawls for her.
Perfect for a light read if you want something to make you laugh and kick your feet.
3 stars due to some minor pacing issues, but overall an enjoyable read with a decent amount of spice.
*I read this book as an eBook ARC copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another fabulous installment in The Philly Sillies series!!! This one was loosely based on my favorite professional player - none other than Ranger Suarez! Who will say reading this book made me feel warm and I will say it and helped ease the pain that I have in my heart ever since he went to Boston!😅
As a native of Pennsylvania-more specifically Philly burbs, I am still over the moon with the idea of the Philly Sillies, and the mascot Ding Dong- a mixture of the Liberty Bell and Gritty- is pure genius.
I love second chance romances, but I don’t love miscommunication tropes so I did get a little tired of the back-and-forth between Ender and Tiffiny, but overall I loved their personalities and Ender’s sweet and dedicated quest to become a book boyfriend to win her back!
The author’s spicy scenes always end up making me crack up, and this one definitely made me lol, especially when someone ends up in the hospital!😅
I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
As a native of Pennsylvania-more specifically Philly burbs, I am still over the moon with the idea of the Philly Sillies, and the mascot Ding Dong- a mixture of the Liberty Bell and Gritty- is pure genius.
I love second chance romances, but I don’t love miscommunication tropes so I did get a little tired of the back-and-forth between Ender and Tiffiny, but overall I loved their personalities and Ender’s sweet and dedicated quest to become a book boyfriend to win her back!
The author’s spicy scenes always end up making me crack up, and this one definitely made me lol, especially when someone ends up in the hospital!😅
I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
March 23, 2026
Favorite Quote: “He said audiobooks don’t count as reading.” Why? Because I gasp and said “they do count as reading!” Audiobook lover here 😍🎧
⭐️ 4.5
🌶️ 2.5
I absolutely loved this book! I’m a sucker for a good sports romance, and when you mix in romcom vibes, it’s just the icing on the cake. Add in a second-chance romance? I’m sold.
Tiffany is the mascot for the Philly Sillys baseball team, and Ender is the rookie pitcher but these two have a past that didn’t exactly end on a high note. And let’s just say one of them has some serious regrets.
I really loved how the MMC was determined to relearn the girl of his dreams. Their chemistry, the tension, and the emotional growth made this such a fun and heartfelt read. It had me laughing, swooning, and fully invested in their journey back to each other.
If you love these tropes you will love this book:
⚾️second Chances
🔔sports romance
⚾️grumpy/sunshine
🔔slow burn
⚾️he reads
🔔 enemies to friends to lovers
⭐️ 4.5
🌶️ 2.5
I absolutely loved this book! I’m a sucker for a good sports romance, and when you mix in romcom vibes, it’s just the icing on the cake. Add in a second-chance romance? I’m sold.
Tiffany is the mascot for the Philly Sillys baseball team, and Ender is the rookie pitcher but these two have a past that didn’t exactly end on a high note. And let’s just say one of them has some serious regrets.
I really loved how the MMC was determined to relearn the girl of his dreams. Their chemistry, the tension, and the emotional growth made this such a fun and heartfelt read. It had me laughing, swooning, and fully invested in their journey back to each other.
If you love these tropes you will love this book:
⚾️second Chances
🔔sports romance
⚾️grumpy/sunshine
🔔slow burn
⚾️he reads
🔔 enemies to friends to lovers
March 25, 2026
Taming the Mascot
Working the Mound
By K. Iwancio
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Pitching Tents Romance Book Club
Ender the new pitcher for the Philly Silly’s and Tiffiny, Ding Dong the mascot for the team. They get pushed together again after years apart and a bad breakup in high school. Her brother Cooper is the Silly’s pitching coach and gives Ender a run for his money every practice.
Ender still calls her Iffy ::swoon::
This book gave me so many feels and the one liners are absolutely FANTASTIC! I mean come one these two alone would make me read this book.
Ender- “She had cut the bridge with a rusty spork and spit in the rubble.”
Tiffiny - ““I’m gonna cut you off there, desperate desperado.””
Ugh and Mama Roche, Enders mother is now my new book mom! She has the quick wit and you just fall in love with her. A total MUST read. I cannot wait for Bensons story! Bring it all on K. Iwancio!!!!
Working the Mound
By K. Iwancio
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Pitching Tents Romance Book Club
Ender the new pitcher for the Philly Silly’s and Tiffiny, Ding Dong the mascot for the team. They get pushed together again after years apart and a bad breakup in high school. Her brother Cooper is the Silly’s pitching coach and gives Ender a run for his money every practice.
Ender still calls her Iffy ::swoon::
This book gave me so many feels and the one liners are absolutely FANTASTIC! I mean come one these two alone would make me read this book.
Ender- “She had cut the bridge with a rusty spork and spit in the rubble.”
Tiffiny - ““I’m gonna cut you off there, desperate desperado.””
Ugh and Mama Roche, Enders mother is now my new book mom! She has the quick wit and you just fall in love with her. A total MUST read. I cannot wait for Bensons story! Bring it all on K. Iwancio!!!!
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