The Way You Say Good Morning

by Meghan French

Delaney Kristoff is a lot of brash, sarcastic, and unapologetically herself. The Chicago bartender knows what she wants in life and just how to get it. No stranger to heartache herself, she keeps her interactions with the opposite sex to the hit-it-and-quit-it variety. She’s perfectly content going it alone, just her and her trusty feline companion, Kingston–what more could she want?

Enter Samuel “Benny” Benjamin, the gregarious and lovable manager of the Chicago Foxes baseball team. Twelve years Delaney’s senior, he’s been around the block a few times and has the scars to show for it. After failing to lead his team to a World Series appearance yet again last year, the pressure on him this season is unbelievable. It’s hard enough being a single dad away from his kids, but add in the weight of an entire city on his shoulders? It’s enough to bring a man to his knees.

In an attempt to blow off some steam, Benny takes his bartender home for the night–it’s just temporary, no-strings-attached fun. But the universe has a funny way of bringing them together after that night. Both Benny and Delaney are surprised to find the banter between them is almost as hot as the nights they spend together and the sparks keep flying long after their initial meeting. But with the pressure mounting on both of them, can they afford to give in to their feelings?

Now, the city might not be the only thing bringing them to their knees.

405 pages, Paperback

Published January 20, 2026

About the author

Meghan French is a romance author who loves writing about strong female characters and the swoonworthy, dirty-talking men who love them. A self-professed foodie and yogini, she lives in Arizona with her husband and dog. When she’s not in a writing cave, she spends her time as a school psychologist, hiking, and reading all the romance novels she can get her hands on.

Reviews

[Halley Vance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will preface this by saying I don’t typically read romance books because often I find them shallow or unrealistic, but I received this as a “blind date with a book” and I’m so glad I did. I never would have picked it out myself based on the cover, the blurb (which doesn’t do the depth of this book justice), and the fact it is independently published, because I am far too judgmental and have been missing out on great books because of it.

This romance is written so well. The author doesn’t just throw in conflict for the sake of conflict and there is such a natural feeling to the relationships (romantic and friendships) that develop throughout it. The characters are unique and likable, well-developed and true to themselves. There is real character growth without being unnatural, and such depth of emotional intelligence in each character’s internal dialogue. These are two of my favorite FMC/MMC of all time. Also the spice? Spiiicy. Not why I think you should read this book, but definitely a bonus.


I am shocked there are not more reviews of this book or series. Genuinely on par with authors like Emily Henry, and a fantastic read.

[Tracy Z. · Rating 5 out of 5]

We love Daddy Benny!!

Holy crap, I didn't think the series could get hotter than the passion of Warner and Alicia... Till I read the sexiness of Benny and Delaney. And all I can say is hot damn, that was yummy. Benny is all you can ask for in a hot, tattooed, doting, golden retriever daddy. Gotta love a man that can care for you like no other. And when he pulls up Delaney's hair with the hair tie he keeps on his wrist for her, I swooned. The playful banter and sweet moments from both lovable/loving MCs drew me in. The honest exploration of love between people with different paces and goals in life was what kept me reading. It was nice to see both of them recognize their errors and flaws in their pivotal moment. They were perfect for one another and that's all that mattered. I really enjoyed this love story and now need a drink and some eye candy to get me through my Benny withdrawals.

[C Me Read Write Now · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need more!

I LOVE THIS!! Oh my gosh, I love the relationship between Benny and Delaney! I absolutely love that he’s a single dad and a man of status and how she naturally just fits into the picture. I enjoyed that one person that should technically not be supportive, was so supportive!! I don’t want to spoil who the person is. I also enjoy the spice and how it wasn’t just spice slapped on a page, but instead touches on true intimacy between lovers. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and want to read everything this author has written now!!

[Meghan Sutherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

fantastic read!

I loved everything about this book, and Delaney might be my new favorite FMC. I love that she’s sarcastic but so relatable. I felt like the conflict was realistic and you really rooted for the characters. I loved seeing the other Foxes characters make a ton of appearances in this book. It made me feel all the feels and I couldn’t wait to pick up my Kindle each night!

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite Meghan French book so far

Perfect blend of spice and sports and just an all around great story. Absolutely loved the cocktails recipes. Highly recommended.