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Tavonesi #6
The Heart of the Game
From USA TODAY Bestselling Author Pamela Aares comes THE HEART OF THE GAME, the sixth book in the Tavonesi family series featuring passion, mystery, and well-won love!
Italian heiress Zoe Tavonesi’s idyllic life has been turned upside down. Her grief-stricken father has uprooted the entire family to the California wine country, shattering Zoe’s plans to open the art gallery her late mother always wanted. But when Cody Bond, the hot catcher for the Giants walks into her life and agrees to ride in her charity polo match, the intriguing American soon has Zoe second-guessing her plans and her dreams.
Estranged from his family, Cody is determined not to screw up his career with relationships, especially when Zoe and the loving, tight-knit, aristocratic Tavonesis remind him of everything his dysfunctional American family isn’t. Cody may be a master of control on the baseball field but his iron will can’t shield him from the desire Zoe ignites.
When Zoe’s family is caught up in a dangerous web of Mafia crime, Cody must swallow his pride and enlist the help of his estranged father, a former CIA operative, to protect her. But will Cody’s inability to trust, and the criminals threatening to destroy Zoe’s family, kill any future for the fiery passion they’ve discovered? Or will Zoe's love free Cody from the past, and help him believe in the power of love?
Italian heiress Zoe Tavonesi’s idyllic life has been turned upside down. Her grief-stricken father has uprooted the entire family to the California wine country, shattering Zoe’s plans to open the art gallery her late mother always wanted. But when Cody Bond, the hot catcher for the Giants walks into her life and agrees to ride in her charity polo match, the intriguing American soon has Zoe second-guessing her plans and her dreams.
Estranged from his family, Cody is determined not to screw up his career with relationships, especially when Zoe and the loving, tight-knit, aristocratic Tavonesis remind him of everything his dysfunctional American family isn’t. Cody may be a master of control on the baseball field but his iron will can’t shield him from the desire Zoe ignites.
When Zoe’s family is caught up in a dangerous web of Mafia crime, Cody must swallow his pride and enlist the help of his estranged father, a former CIA operative, to protect her. But will Cody’s inability to trust, and the criminals threatening to destroy Zoe’s family, kill any future for the fiery passion they’ve discovered? Or will Zoe's love free Cody from the past, and help him believe in the power of love?
410 pages, Paperback
First published September 7, 2014
56 people are currently reading
621 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Aares
18 books301 followersPamela Aares is a USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author of contemporary and historical romance novels. Her contemporary series, The Tavonesi Series, explores the lives, loves, friendships and sizzling romances of the Tavonesi family.
Her popularity as a romance writer continues to grow with each new book release, so much so, that the Bay area author has drawn comparisons by reviewers to Nora Roberts and Barbara Freethy. You can stay in touch with Pamela by signing up for her New Release Newsletter: http://www.pamelaaares.com/newsletter...
Pamela writes romance books that she loves reading, particularly those that entertain, transport and inspire dreams while captivating and tugging at the heart. She takes her readers on a journey with complex characters in both contemporary and historical settings who are thrown in situations that tempt love, adventure and self-discovery.
Before becoming a romance author, Pamela wrote and produced award-winning films including Your Water, Your Life, featuring actress Susan Sarandon and NPR series New Voices, The Powers of the Universe and The Earth’s Imagination.
She holds a Master’s degree from Harvard and currently resides in the wine country of Northern California with her husband, a former MLB All-Star and two curious cats.
If not behind her computer, you can probably find her reading a romance novel, hiking the beach or savoring life with friends. You can visit Pamela on the web at http://www.PamelaAares.com.
You can stay in touch with Pamela by signing up for her New Release neslwtter: http://www.pamelaaares.com/newsletter...
Her popularity as a romance writer continues to grow with each new book release, so much so, that the Bay area author has drawn comparisons by reviewers to Nora Roberts and Barbara Freethy. You can stay in touch with Pamela by signing up for her New Release Newsletter: http://www.pamelaaares.com/newsletter...
Pamela writes romance books that she loves reading, particularly those that entertain, transport and inspire dreams while captivating and tugging at the heart. She takes her readers on a journey with complex characters in both contemporary and historical settings who are thrown in situations that tempt love, adventure and self-discovery.
Before becoming a romance author, Pamela wrote and produced award-winning films including Your Water, Your Life, featuring actress Susan Sarandon and NPR series New Voices, The Powers of the Universe and The Earth’s Imagination.
She holds a Master’s degree from Harvard and currently resides in the wine country of Northern California with her husband, a former MLB All-Star and two curious cats.
If not behind her computer, you can probably find her reading a romance novel, hiking the beach or savoring life with friends. You can visit Pamela on the web at http://www.PamelaAares.com.
You can stay in touch with Pamela by signing up for her New Release neslwtter: http://www.pamelaaares.com/newsletter...
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 26, 2016
Escape from your day with this book!
5 stars for the 6th book in this series that I'm completely connected to in so many ways its spooky. The attention to detail & similarities to my interests binds me to each story especially this one being from Montana. When a main character, Cody, is from Montana the challenge to Pamela Wares was on! She brought in an authentic character that sums up the no nonsense attitude of a Montanan who would be fascinated with a beautiful Italian woman, know his limits, & not be affairs to break his personal boundaries. From huckleberries (didn't know they gfe
5 stars for the 6th book in this series that I'm completely connected to in so many ways its spooky. The attention to detail & similarities to my interests binds me to each story especially this one being from Montana. When a main character, Cody, is from Montana the challenge to Pamela Wares was on! She brought in an authentic character that sums up the no nonsense attitude of a Montanan who would be fascinated with a beautiful Italian woman, know his limits, & not be affairs to break his personal boundaries. From huckleberries (didn't know they gfe
February 14, 2019
Beautiful
Her grief was so strong and deep she couldn't see what she needed was in front of her. You will be taken on a journey of her discoveries
Her grief was so strong and deep she couldn't see what she needed was in front of her. You will be taken on a journey of her discoveries
March 27, 2015
I’ve been fortunate enough to have the privilege of helping to promote all the books in this series and have loved every book. So, of course I couldn’t wait to read this one. I loved the characters and the fact that you get glimpses of couples from the previous books. I also enjoyed the multiple layers to the story and how they are all woven together so seamlessly.
Cody and Zoe are instantly drawn to each other. However, they both are fighting it for different reasons. Cody has issues with his family and it has made him feel unworthy of getting one of his own (or any kind of success for that matter). He’s also driven to be the best catcher in the MLB and doesn’t want any distractions. Zoe is determined to go back to her Rome so she doesn’t want to get attached to anyone in California. She’s also dealing with the loss of her mother as well as weird behavior from her father. Of course their strong attraction to each other can’t be ignored and so begins the battle. The fire between these two is intense and I loved watching their story unfold.
The story line was awesome. There’s Zoe’s family trying to adjust to the loss of their mother and being in a new country, her father’s secrets and erratic behavior, and her determination to get back to Rome as soon as possible. Then you have Cody’s family issues, his own internal demons, and his drive to have no distractions while he fights for his goal to be MLB’s #1 catcher. And let’s not forget the romance blooming between Cody and Zoe as well as the sinister Vico who is up to nothing good. All of these different lines are woven together to make one hell of a book that is hard to put down. 5 out of 5 stars!
Cody and Zoe are instantly drawn to each other. However, they both are fighting it for different reasons. Cody has issues with his family and it has made him feel unworthy of getting one of his own (or any kind of success for that matter). He’s also driven to be the best catcher in the MLB and doesn’t want any distractions. Zoe is determined to go back to her Rome so she doesn’t want to get attached to anyone in California. She’s also dealing with the loss of her mother as well as weird behavior from her father. Of course their strong attraction to each other can’t be ignored and so begins the battle. The fire between these two is intense and I loved watching their story unfold.
The story line was awesome. There’s Zoe’s family trying to adjust to the loss of their mother and being in a new country, her father’s secrets and erratic behavior, and her determination to get back to Rome as soon as possible. Then you have Cody’s family issues, his own internal demons, and his drive to have no distractions while he fights for his goal to be MLB’s #1 catcher. And let’s not forget the romance blooming between Cody and Zoe as well as the sinister Vico who is up to nothing good. All of these different lines are woven together to make one hell of a book that is hard to put down. 5 out of 5 stars!
April 3, 2015
I love The Heart of the Game series. In book #6 we get to know the Italian Tavonesi family. It makes me want to go to Italy. The series takes place mostly in the San Francisco bay area with "hot" San Francisco Giant baseball players and the women who capture their hearts. In book #6 we meet Cody Bond, a catcher trying to make it in the big league. He doesn't have any interest in settling down but when he meets Zoe he's instantly attracted to her. The Tavonesi family is everything his family wasn't growing up. His alcoholic father taught him to rely on himself and not need anyone else. The Tavonesi take him in and treat him like family. He can't help falling in love with Zoe. The only problem is Zoe doesn't want to live in California, her home is Rome. Cody won't stand in Zoe's way to follow her dreams, even if it breaks his heart. We get to spend a lot of time with the other characters from previous books. Spoiler alert if you haven't read "Aim for Love" but Kaz and Sabrina's wedding is magical. It's a happy reunion with everyone back together. Cody knows Zoe is leaving after the holiday but he can't seem to stay away from her. When Cody's bank account gets hacked the Italian mafia may be involved and Cody wants to protect Zoe.
This book has it all: Mystery and intrigue; Family dynamics; Baseball players; Beautiful scenery and countryside; and Love, burning hot and passionate love.
This book has it all: Mystery and intrigue; Family dynamics; Baseball players; Beautiful scenery and countryside; and Love, burning hot and passionate love.
May 11, 2015
An E-copy of The Heart of the Game was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
As always, Pamela Aares has another smash hit in her Tavonesi Series. This is the sixth book in the series and although each book is a stand alone novel, I would suggest reading them in order because they are chronological. All of the characters in her book appear in the next book so it helps to have an understanding and knowledge of all of the relationships. Ms. Aares does an awesome job in developing each of her characters and you begin to feel a part of the family and friendships that have developed along the way.
All of the books in the series have an underlying baseball theme. This one was a bit different in that the bulk of the story takes place in the off-season. The Heart of the Game also has an underlying mystery story line along with the typical romantic relationship.
As always, I have enjoyed all of the books in this series and look forward to meeting yet more of the Tavonesi family.
As always, Pamela Aares has another smash hit in her Tavonesi Series. This is the sixth book in the series and although each book is a stand alone novel, I would suggest reading them in order because they are chronological. All of the characters in her book appear in the next book so it helps to have an understanding and knowledge of all of the relationships. Ms. Aares does an awesome job in developing each of her characters and you begin to feel a part of the family and friendships that have developed along the way.
All of the books in the series have an underlying baseball theme. This one was a bit different in that the bulk of the story takes place in the off-season. The Heart of the Game also has an underlying mystery story line along with the typical romantic relationship.
As always, I have enjoyed all of the books in this series and look forward to meeting yet more of the Tavonesi family.
March 21, 2015
First, I would like to say that this is one of my favorite series. I’ve followed it through since I was first asked to review book one. This book is no exception to the fact that you fall in love with the characters and their stories. Whether it’s finding your heart, pushing the past aside for love, or pushing past your pride… You will get wrapped up in all the books in the series.
This is Cody and Zoe’s story and you will definitely be feeling the zip of their attraction. You’ll want to grab this read and find out where Zoe and Cody’s stubbornness get them. What will they do to work through a danger that is lurking around the family?
Although they can be standalone, I highly suggest reading in order. You won’t be disappointed. The Color of Ink received a copy for an honest review.
This is Cody and Zoe’s story and you will definitely be feeling the zip of their attraction. You’ll want to grab this read and find out where Zoe and Cody’s stubbornness get them. What will they do to work through a danger that is lurking around the family?
Although they can be standalone, I highly suggest reading in order. You won’t be disappointed. The Color of Ink received a copy for an honest review.
October 28, 2015
Great baseball story
What a beautiful sweet romance story Pamela Aares writes a story that makes you want to keep on reading.This is a continuation of the Tavonesi family and is Cody And Zoe's story.Its set deep in beautiful wine country in California and the people that grow grapes for wine.
Cody and Zoe have much to overcome from events in their lives they have trust issues and hearts locked so tight they can't open up.
This is finding your chance at love letting go of the past and making a future.
I highly recommend this whole series if you like baseball and romance and a little mystery in a story this is the book for you the books in thus series are all standalone, but are interwoven with characters from the other books.
Must read I love this book by a great author
What a beautiful sweet romance story Pamela Aares writes a story that makes you want to keep on reading.This is a continuation of the Tavonesi family and is Cody And Zoe's story.Its set deep in beautiful wine country in California and the people that grow grapes for wine.
Cody and Zoe have much to overcome from events in their lives they have trust issues and hearts locked so tight they can't open up.
This is finding your chance at love letting go of the past and making a future.
I highly recommend this whole series if you like baseball and romance and a little mystery in a story this is the book for you the books in thus series are all standalone, but are interwoven with characters from the other books.
Must read I love this book by a great author
May 8, 2015
“The Heart of the Game” isn’t the first in this series, but it stands alone just fine, and handily entices the reader to scramble for the “One Click” button.
Read full review in the 2015 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2015 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 13, 2019
*Book received in exchange for an honest review.*
From the moment I picked up book 1, I have been completely hooked on this series. Completely in love with all the characters and their lives.
Book six is no different and I can't wait to get my hands on book seven.
The book consists of a lot of 'not judging a book by its cover' because everyone seems so grief stricken to the outside world after the death of Zoe's mother, but under it all lies plots, plans and deception - but in a good way, for a change.
Cody Bond is our hunky baseball player this time - I swear Pamela creates some amazing looking, caring guys - And just like she said I would, I love him! just like the rest #bookwhore. His heart and emotions are closed off after moving away and escaping his turbulent family and he's happy not letting anyone else behind that shield... that is until Zoe trots up.
A wealthy Italian who begins sneaking behind his defences.
And that is where the deception begins. Zoe is working her way back to Rome to heal her heart and Cody learns the truth about his own family deceptions, while learning more and more about the world of Zoe's father, because he seems to be the king of portraying grief while he's actually protecting his remaining loved ones.
One thing I adore in this book is Cody's ability to let Zoe do as she dreams. I personally think that people - fictional or real - need to do as they want. Because it's better to regret trying than it is to regret never giving it a go. And although sometimes what the persons wants is the opposite of what we want, we have to let them do it. If it's meant to be, it will find it's way back. Two things I believe in in one novel.
I'm also with Alex and Cody, I bloody hate Vico! Slimy and a snake! Perceives to be one thing.. when in fact he's something else and not in the way Zoe's father is, her dad does it for protection, Vico does it for himself - think he's based on my ex! And in good novel way, Vico's world comes crashing down on him, weird to think that after I read the prologue I felt sorry for the lad, he even had me fooled!
As always, I am in love with this series! Smiled like the joker as I finished reading the book. *sighs*
Next please!
From the moment I picked up book 1, I have been completely hooked on this series. Completely in love with all the characters and their lives.
Book six is no different and I can't wait to get my hands on book seven.
The book consists of a lot of 'not judging a book by its cover' because everyone seems so grief stricken to the outside world after the death of Zoe's mother, but under it all lies plots, plans and deception - but in a good way, for a change.
Cody Bond is our hunky baseball player this time - I swear Pamela creates some amazing looking, caring guys - And just like she said I would, I love him! just like the rest #bookwhore. His heart and emotions are closed off after moving away and escaping his turbulent family and he's happy not letting anyone else behind that shield... that is until Zoe trots up.
A wealthy Italian who begins sneaking behind his defences.
And that is where the deception begins. Zoe is working her way back to Rome to heal her heart and Cody learns the truth about his own family deceptions, while learning more and more about the world of Zoe's father, because he seems to be the king of portraying grief while he's actually protecting his remaining loved ones.
One thing I adore in this book is Cody's ability to let Zoe do as she dreams. I personally think that people - fictional or real - need to do as they want. Because it's better to regret trying than it is to regret never giving it a go. And although sometimes what the persons wants is the opposite of what we want, we have to let them do it. If it's meant to be, it will find it's way back. Two things I believe in in one novel.
I'm also with Alex and Cody, I bloody hate Vico! Slimy and a snake! Perceives to be one thing.. when in fact he's something else and not in the way Zoe's father is, her dad does it for protection, Vico does it for himself - think he's based on my ex! And in good novel way, Vico's world comes crashing down on him, weird to think that after I read the prologue I felt sorry for the lad, he even had me fooled!
As always, I am in love with this series! Smiled like the joker as I finished reading the book. *sighs*
Next please!
March 9, 2019
The Vines and the Grapes
I love this series! This book opened the world of vineyards.. and all that goes into creating one! That is what I enjoy about these books.. there is always a side story where she cleverly introduces new characters who, I am sure, will be a future book in the series! The intrigue, and romance always make nice bed fellows!
I love this series! This book opened the world of vineyards.. and all that goes into creating one! That is what I enjoy about these books.. there is always a side story where she cleverly introduces new characters who, I am sure, will be a future book in the series! The intrigue, and romance always make nice bed fellows!
July 13, 2018
This was a good romance read.It did have some mystery to it,but it was very underdeveloped and had a kick ending at the end of the book.There was though a lot of culutural interesting things in this book,the baseball world horse riding,wine and vinyards,art and Italy.A good read
December 30, 2025
Great series
March 11, 2015
Cody Bond is the hottest new catcher for The Giants, having no interest in relationships or starting a family he just wants to play the game he loves and enjoy living his dream.
As an accomplished rider it comes as no surprise that he’s asked to ride for a charity polo match organised by heiress Zoe Tavonesi.
Zoe Tavonesi just can’t seem to call California home. Her heart truly belongs in Italy and her life in Rome.
Her determination to open a memorial gallery for her Mother in Rome pushes away any idea of contemplating a life at the family vineyard and eventually raising a family of her own there.
There is no denying the intense attraction between Cody and Zoe but their own stubbornness is just one of many obstacles put in their way of being together.
Danger lurks around the corner in the form of mafia criminal’s intent on causing a problem for the Tavonesi family. With the possibility of Zoe’s life being in danger Cody must swallow his pride and turn to the one man he never thought he’d ever need again for help.
I have, over this series fallen in love with the characters that Pamela creates. In this book as much as I love Cody, Zoe significantly stands out.
She is tenacious and headstrong. She loves her family dearly but has this great need to follow her instincts and chase her heart.
Growing up in an Italian family I recognise all the elements of Zoe’s personality and she makes a convincing beautiful Italian woman.
This story shifts the focus away from Baseball slightly. I found it to be a little darker than the other books.
The Mafia storyline gives the reader elements of suspense and danger circling the characters. On one hand you’re enjoying the developing romance between Cody and Zoe but there’s this nagging feeling at the back of your mind that something bad is going to happen...I loved it!
Cody is a complex character; emotionally he is a brick wall. Scared he will become a mirror image of his Father he doesn’t allow himself the freedom to get close to someone. As you read you can feel Zoe breaking those walls down and you become attached to the man he was trying to hide.
When a book allows you to feel for the characters you know it’s a great story.
With a strong family theme you just know the Tavonesi clan will filter through the story and bring everything to life. Bit by bit you see them come together and allow their own personalities to shine but without taking the focus from Cody and Zoe.
There is so much deep rooted emotion that runs through this book that towards the end Zoe simply took my breath away. There is an emotionally charged scene between her and Cody which will simply knock you off your feet.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re familiar with Pamela’s books or just finding them. There will always be something in each that will tug at your heart. Be it Baseball, vinification, family loyalty, romance, or even animal welfare. You will find that one thing to keep you coming back for more. Just as I have.
They just get better and better.
ARC Supplied For Review
As an accomplished rider it comes as no surprise that he’s asked to ride for a charity polo match organised by heiress Zoe Tavonesi.
Zoe Tavonesi just can’t seem to call California home. Her heart truly belongs in Italy and her life in Rome.
Her determination to open a memorial gallery for her Mother in Rome pushes away any idea of contemplating a life at the family vineyard and eventually raising a family of her own there.
There is no denying the intense attraction between Cody and Zoe but their own stubbornness is just one of many obstacles put in their way of being together.
Danger lurks around the corner in the form of mafia criminal’s intent on causing a problem for the Tavonesi family. With the possibility of Zoe’s life being in danger Cody must swallow his pride and turn to the one man he never thought he’d ever need again for help.
I have, over this series fallen in love with the characters that Pamela creates. In this book as much as I love Cody, Zoe significantly stands out.
She is tenacious and headstrong. She loves her family dearly but has this great need to follow her instincts and chase her heart.
Growing up in an Italian family I recognise all the elements of Zoe’s personality and she makes a convincing beautiful Italian woman.
This story shifts the focus away from Baseball slightly. I found it to be a little darker than the other books.
The Mafia storyline gives the reader elements of suspense and danger circling the characters. On one hand you’re enjoying the developing romance between Cody and Zoe but there’s this nagging feeling at the back of your mind that something bad is going to happen...I loved it!
Cody is a complex character; emotionally he is a brick wall. Scared he will become a mirror image of his Father he doesn’t allow himself the freedom to get close to someone. As you read you can feel Zoe breaking those walls down and you become attached to the man he was trying to hide.
When a book allows you to feel for the characters you know it’s a great story.
With a strong family theme you just know the Tavonesi clan will filter through the story and bring everything to life. Bit by bit you see them come together and allow their own personalities to shine but without taking the focus from Cody and Zoe.
There is so much deep rooted emotion that runs through this book that towards the end Zoe simply took my breath away. There is an emotionally charged scene between her and Cody which will simply knock you off your feet.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re familiar with Pamela’s books or just finding them. There will always be something in each that will tug at your heart. Be it Baseball, vinification, family loyalty, romance, or even animal welfare. You will find that one thing to keep you coming back for more. Just as I have.
They just get better and better.
ARC Supplied For Review
November 29, 2015
Great book! Love in the Vineyard is book 5. Bueno stuff.
Cody is a minor league pitcher and Zoe is a heiress. While they don't seem right for each other. The power of love is a strange thing.
Cody is a minor league pitcher and Zoe is a heiress. While they don't seem right for each other. The power of love is a strange thing.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews