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Winning Love #3
Fair Ball
Not yet published
Expected 23 Oct 26I hate everything in this city. Except the impossibly sunny single mom who I’ve hired as my new assistant.
Growing up as the second born son to the King of Baseball was no picnic, but being known as the ill-tempered spare to my brother was even worse. When he betrayed me before the biggest game of our lives, I made my feelings known with my fist and his broken nose.
Now, traded to the Philadelphia Thunder—the laughingstock of the league—there’s nothing that could make me love this city, the food, or its people. That is, until Millie Sheehan literally stumbles into my life with dimples I’m obsessed with and my last name on her back.
As my new assistant, she's chaotic, colorful, and absolutely terrible at the job. And I can’t live without her in the stands or my bed.
But unfortunately for me, her sunshine can’t keep my past from haunting me, and even her constant optimism can’t erase the scars that remind everyone just what gave the spare his bad reputation.
Growing up as the second born son to the King of Baseball was no picnic, but being known as the ill-tempered spare to my brother was even worse. When he betrayed me before the biggest game of our lives, I made my feelings known with my fist and his broken nose.
Now, traded to the Philadelphia Thunder—the laughingstock of the league—there’s nothing that could make me love this city, the food, or its people. That is, until Millie Sheehan literally stumbles into my life with dimples I’m obsessed with and my last name on her back.
As my new assistant, she's chaotic, colorful, and absolutely terrible at the job. And I can’t live without her in the stands or my bed.
But unfortunately for me, her sunshine can’t keep my past from haunting me, and even her constant optimism can’t erase the scars that remind everyone just what gave the spare his bad reputation.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 23, 2026
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Review of advance copy received from Author
Such an entertaining story!
This is a rollercoaster ride of emotions!
I laughed, I cried, and became very addicted as I moved through these chapters, becoming more invested in Austin and Millie's chemistry and dynamic.
SO GOOD!
Millie is so relatable and it was emotional to see her navigate the challenges of not only single motherhood, but the responsibility of care for her mother.
Austin has a right to his grumpiness, but one look at Millie being Millie at her son's baseball clinic, and he’s smitten! His emotions are easy to connect with and my heart hurt for him! He's got good reasons to be upset, and the introduction of Millie into his world begins his shift in focus.
Fortunately, their genuine care for each other (and their steamy chemistry) gives them the strength to manage the highs and lows of their HEA journey. Love it!!
I recommend reading this book and series. This author allows easy connections with the characters and situations, and the pages turn themselves.
I can't wait for more!
Fortunate to have received an ARC from the author (thank you) I voluntarily leave my thoughts.
This is a rollercoaster ride of emotions!
I laughed, I cried, and became very addicted as I moved through these chapters, becoming more invested in Austin and Millie's chemistry and dynamic.
SO GOOD!
Millie is so relatable and it was emotional to see her navigate the challenges of not only single motherhood, but the responsibility of care for her mother.
Austin has a right to his grumpiness, but one look at Millie being Millie at her son's baseball clinic, and he’s smitten! His emotions are easy to connect with and my heart hurt for him! He's got good reasons to be upset, and the introduction of Millie into his world begins his shift in focus.
Fortunately, their genuine care for each other (and their steamy chemistry) gives them the strength to manage the highs and lows of their HEA journey. Love it!!
I recommend reading this book and series. This author allows easy connections with the characters and situations, and the pages turn themselves.
I can't wait for more!
Fortunate to have received an ARC from the author (thank you) I voluntarily leave my thoughts.
Review of advance copy
sophie my queen who can do no wrong!! everything she writes is just soo good
i’m a sucker for a grumpy x sunshine and millie & austin were the PERFECT couple! they really fit so well together and truly made the best family <3
i think it’s so important for characters to grow throughout books, and austin really did so much! his public persona didn’t match who he was in private/with millie & her family, but he put in the work and (eventually) let everyone see the good guy he is <3
also icon millie diagnosing herself through tiktok is so relatable i love her bad
i’m a sucker for a grumpy x sunshine and millie & austin were the PERFECT couple! they really fit so well together and truly made the best family <3
i think it’s so important for characters to grow throughout books, and austin really did so much! his public persona didn’t match who he was in private/with millie & her family, but he put in the work and (eventually) let everyone see the good guy he is <3
also icon millie diagnosing herself through tiktok is so relatable i love her bad
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚘 𝚅𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝙴𝚍𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙽𝚎𝚝𝙶𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚢 𝙲𝚘-𝚘𝚙 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚟𝚒𝚊 𝙽𝚎𝚝𝙶𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚢. 𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚘𝚙𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚢 𝚘𝚠𝚗. This book was marked as Read Now Now on NetGalley and I'm so glad that I was able to read this book at the correct time. This book may include spoilers that will be marked with (Spoiler) tag.
𝚆𝚑𝚘 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔?:
- Fans of sports romance and having an odd couple with a size difference paired together.
- The MMC— a player in the news for some x amount of reasons.
- The FMC— a mother too young to be a mom with a laugh that turns heads.
- Banter that feels like comedic gold.
- Characters with anxiety, autism and cancer.
- Sweet, feel good romance that is very simple and not over the top.
- Conversations about mental health.
𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚐𝚘𝚘𝚍:
- I like the way how the MMC introverted personality is exactly opposite to the life he is living. Usually big, hit shot names in a sport like baseball bask in the glory and chants of the fans, but the MMC hates the whole aspect that he has to meet certain criteria so he has to clear his name off his past.
- The FMC is a fiery rocket of emotions— like her hair and both the characters balance each other out.
- 9% The simple, easy to follow writing was the best part of this story. When you add that to the humour and the banter, its even better. The dialogues flow along well.
- 10% I liked that the story isn't too fast nor too slow. Everything is slowly and steadily revealed.
- Alberto is my favourite character so far. The idea of the author using Spanish and English to create comedy was something I thoroughly enjoyed.
- This story was fairly quick and interesting for follow. It was surprisingly very simple and didn't have that pomp and gusto like I usually see in sports romance books.
- I liked that how the FMC's religion also shapes the way she thinks and her personality. Religion is very minimal in the story but it is very important to the characters in one way or the other. Sometimes they make good choices or bad choices about it. Religion can corrupt or uplift them.
- This story would be categorised as a feel good story. It had characters that were so normal and had all the flaws and positive points that you would need in a story. It does a very good job on showcasing feelings, emotions and rising up to something you weren't before— but in a simple way. I feel the author used the FMC's religious background to make it feel that way and that is why this story is the way it is.
- This story was like a warmth of sunshine d r more than 60% of the book before the final blow came. I was wondering when it would happen and when it did, it helped me see the characters differently. I loved Millie for standing up for herself and Austin for being Austin. It's each characters's arc that was very interesting to read.
- I liked how real the main characters felt and the talk around mental health, especially around sportspersons. Since I am someone who used to watch lots of sports the depictions felt very genuine and very real.
𝚆𝚑𝚘 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔?:
- Fans of sports romance and having an odd couple with a size difference paired together.
- The MMC— a player in the news for some x amount of reasons.
- The FMC— a mother too young to be a mom with a laugh that turns heads.
- Banter that feels like comedic gold.
- Characters with anxiety, autism and cancer.
- Sweet, feel good romance that is very simple and not over the top.
- Conversations about mental health.
𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚐𝚘𝚘𝚍:
- I like the way how the MMC introverted personality is exactly opposite to the life he is living. Usually big, hit shot names in a sport like baseball bask in the glory and chants of the fans, but the MMC hates the whole aspect that he has to meet certain criteria so he has to clear his name off his past.
- The FMC is a fiery rocket of emotions— like her hair and both the characters balance each other out.
- 9% The simple, easy to follow writing was the best part of this story. When you add that to the humour and the banter, its even better. The dialogues flow along well.
- 10% I liked that the story isn't too fast nor too slow. Everything is slowly and steadily revealed.
- Alberto is my favourite character so far. The idea of the author using Spanish and English to create comedy was something I thoroughly enjoyed.
- This story was fairly quick and interesting for follow. It was surprisingly very simple and didn't have that pomp and gusto like I usually see in sports romance books.
- I liked that how the FMC's religion also shapes the way she thinks and her personality. Religion is very minimal in the story but it is very important to the characters in one way or the other. Sometimes they make good choices or bad choices about it. Religion can corrupt or uplift them.
- This story would be categorised as a feel good story. It had characters that were so normal and had all the flaws and positive points that you would need in a story. It does a very good job on showcasing feelings, emotions and rising up to something you weren't before— but in a simple way. I feel the author used the FMC's religious background to make it feel that way and that is why this story is the way it is.
- This story was like a warmth of sunshine d r more than 60% of the book before the final blow came. I was wondering when it would happen and when it did, it helped me see the characters differently. I loved Millie for standing up for herself and Austin for being Austin. It's each characters's arc that was very interesting to read.
- I liked how real the main characters felt and the talk around mental health, especially around sportspersons. Since I am someone who used to watch lots of sports the depictions felt very genuine and very real.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have read a LOT of romance over the years, but sports romances always seem to hit a little differently for me. Most of the ones I read involve hockey or football, so it was fun to switch things up with baseball. After really enjoying "Going Deep," the first book in this series, I was excited to jump back in. Somehow, I managed to skip book two, so now I need to go back and read Nico's story! Thankfully, I didn't feel lost, and I loved seeing some familiar faces from the earlier books.
One thing I didn't know going in was that Millie is autistic. This is only the second romance I've read featuring an autistic FMC, and I'm actually glad I didn't know beforehand because I had no preconceived expectations about her character. I really liked Millie. She's a single mom who is also caring for her terminally ill mother, yet she manages to maintain such a positive outlook. Even though she considers herself bad luck, she doesn't let that stop her from making the best of things. I really admired her strength and optimism.
Now, Austin? Sir, PLEASE get out of your own way! I honestly expected Millie to be the one who might test my patience, but Austin ended up taking that honor. I really liked him, and I understood why he had so many walls up after learning more about his complicated relationships with his father and brother. Still, there were moments when I wanted to shake some sense into him! I do wish there had been a little more resolution with his family issues, but I also understand that not every relationship can be neatly fixed. And I have to give a special shoutout to Harold, who was definitely one of the MVPs of this story. I'll leave it at that!
Overall, I really enjoyed Austin and Millie's story. Their grumpy/sunshine dynamic was fun, and I loved that Millie didn't have to change who she was to be loved. There was plenty of humor, heart, and romance, along with some frustrating moments that kept things interesting. Now I need to catch up on Nico's story before the final book comes out! Also, there's a bonus epilogue available to download, and I definitely recommend it. You know I love getting that extra glimpse into a couple's future!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
One thing I didn't know going in was that Millie is autistic. This is only the second romance I've read featuring an autistic FMC, and I'm actually glad I didn't know beforehand because I had no preconceived expectations about her character. I really liked Millie. She's a single mom who is also caring for her terminally ill mother, yet she manages to maintain such a positive outlook. Even though she considers herself bad luck, she doesn't let that stop her from making the best of things. I really admired her strength and optimism.
Now, Austin? Sir, PLEASE get out of your own way! I honestly expected Millie to be the one who might test my patience, but Austin ended up taking that honor. I really liked him, and I understood why he had so many walls up after learning more about his complicated relationships with his father and brother. Still, there were moments when I wanted to shake some sense into him! I do wish there had been a little more resolution with his family issues, but I also understand that not every relationship can be neatly fixed. And I have to give a special shoutout to Harold, who was definitely one of the MVPs of this story. I'll leave it at that!
Overall, I really enjoyed Austin and Millie's story. Their grumpy/sunshine dynamic was fun, and I loved that Millie didn't have to change who she was to be loved. There was plenty of humor, heart, and romance, along with some frustrating moments that kept things interesting. Now I need to catch up on Nico's story before the final book comes out! Also, there's a bonus epilogue available to download, and I definitely recommend it. You know I love getting that extra glimpse into a couple's future!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
October 22, 2026
Sophie Andrews, you have done it AGAIN!!! 😍⚾️🩷
I had the BEST time reading and listening to this book! Give me a grumpy x sunshine romance with amazing chemistry, hilarious banter, emotional moments, and characters I can’t help but fall in love with, and I’m SOLD!
MILLIE!!! 🥹🩷 This woman completely stole the show for me! She was funny, smart, caring, chaotic, and so relatable. I absolutely adored her neurodivergent self! But what really got me was her relationship with her mom. Knowing her mom was terminally ill and watching Millie try to take care of her while making the most of every moment they had together broke my heart. 😭 Her mom was such a beautiful character. Sweet, strong, and supportive until the very end. Those moments between them really hit me hard. 💔
And then there’s AUSTIN! 🥵 Sir, I loved you, but you tested my patience a few times! 🤣 That stubborn man needed THERAPY, STAT!!! But considering his dysfunctional family and everything he went through growing up, I understood why he struggled so much. I loved watching him slowly open up, allow himself to heal, and realize that he deserved happiness too.
And these two together?! THE CHEMISTRY!!! 🔥 Their friendship, their conversations, the banter, the romance, THE SPICE!!! Everything was so good! I loved how their relationship developed and how they brought out different sides of each other. Sophie always manages to have me laughing out loud one minute and getting emotional the next.
NOW, THE AUDIOBOOK!!! 🎧🔥
DUET NARRATION!!! My favorite!!!
Helena Walters and Walker Williams did such a fantastic job bringing Millie and Austin to life! And we also get Anthony Palmini as Yadi, the Dominican baseball player, Austin’s best friend, and basically his personal faerie godmother! 🤭🇩🇴 I LOVED HIM!!! We all need a Yadi in our lives!
The performances, the humor, the emotional scenes, the chemistry… listening to this story made the entire experience even better!
Overall, I loved every second of this book. It was funny, spicy, emotional, and full of heart. Austin and Millie were everything I wanted from a grumpy x sunshine romance, and Sophie Andrews continues to remind me why I love her books so much!
Thank you so much, Sophie Andrews, for the e-ARC and ALC! 🩷⚾️
I had the BEST time reading and listening to this book! Give me a grumpy x sunshine romance with amazing chemistry, hilarious banter, emotional moments, and characters I can’t help but fall in love with, and I’m SOLD!
MILLIE!!! 🥹🩷 This woman completely stole the show for me! She was funny, smart, caring, chaotic, and so relatable. I absolutely adored her neurodivergent self! But what really got me was her relationship with her mom. Knowing her mom was terminally ill and watching Millie try to take care of her while making the most of every moment they had together broke my heart. 😭 Her mom was such a beautiful character. Sweet, strong, and supportive until the very end. Those moments between them really hit me hard. 💔
And then there’s AUSTIN! 🥵 Sir, I loved you, but you tested my patience a few times! 🤣 That stubborn man needed THERAPY, STAT!!! But considering his dysfunctional family and everything he went through growing up, I understood why he struggled so much. I loved watching him slowly open up, allow himself to heal, and realize that he deserved happiness too.
And these two together?! THE CHEMISTRY!!! 🔥 Their friendship, their conversations, the banter, the romance, THE SPICE!!! Everything was so good! I loved how their relationship developed and how they brought out different sides of each other. Sophie always manages to have me laughing out loud one minute and getting emotional the next.
NOW, THE AUDIOBOOK!!! 🎧🔥
DUET NARRATION!!! My favorite!!!
Helena Walters and Walker Williams did such a fantastic job bringing Millie and Austin to life! And we also get Anthony Palmini as Yadi, the Dominican baseball player, Austin’s best friend, and basically his personal faerie godmother! 🤭🇩🇴 I LOVED HIM!!! We all need a Yadi in our lives!
The performances, the humor, the emotional scenes, the chemistry… listening to this story made the entire experience even better!
Overall, I loved every second of this book. It was funny, spicy, emotional, and full of heart. Austin and Millie were everything I wanted from a grumpy x sunshine romance, and Sophie Andrews continues to remind me why I love her books so much!
Thank you so much, Sophie Andrews, for the e-ARC and ALC! 🩷⚾️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was my first Sophie Andrews book, and consider me officially intrigued! Fair Ball is the third installment in her Winning Love series, and I enjoyed it enough that I’m already eager to go back and read books one and two.
Our FMC, Millie, is a neurodivergent single mom who is also the sole caregiver for her mother, who has stage IV lung cancer. That’s a LOT for one person to carry, and I thought Andrews did a beautiful job portraying both neurodivergence and the emotional complexities of caregiving. While the story doesn’t delve too deeply into end-of-life care, the conversations surrounding what truly matters at the end of someone’s life were handled with such tenderness and authenticity. These moments really stood out to me.
And then we have Austin, our grumpy MMC, who is absolutely, unequivocally DOWN BAD for Millie. 😍 There’s a touch of insta-love on his end, which isn’t usually my favorite, but I couldn’t help loving how completely gone this man was for her. Their romance was sweet, and I appreciated how Austin’s gruff exterior gave way to genuine tenderness.
What I especially appreciated was how Andrews navigated the intersection of mental health and romantic relationships. There’s an important distinction between being someone’s safe place and being solely responsible for their happiness, and I loved that this book didn’t shy away from exploring it.
“It can’t be only me. You can’t put that all on me when I already have so much to carry.”
YES. 👏🏼 Love can be a source of strength and support, but it cannot be the entirety of someone’s emotional foundation. I appreciated seeing that boundary acknowledged in a romance.
All in all, Fair Ball was a lovely sports romance that managed to balance swoony moments with some genuinely heavy subject matter. There’s heart here, but also an understanding that love doesn’t magically erase life’s hardships. A really enjoyable read, and certainly not my last from Sophie Andrews!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4.25 ⭐️
Our FMC, Millie, is a neurodivergent single mom who is also the sole caregiver for her mother, who has stage IV lung cancer. That’s a LOT for one person to carry, and I thought Andrews did a beautiful job portraying both neurodivergence and the emotional complexities of caregiving. While the story doesn’t delve too deeply into end-of-life care, the conversations surrounding what truly matters at the end of someone’s life were handled with such tenderness and authenticity. These moments really stood out to me.
And then we have Austin, our grumpy MMC, who is absolutely, unequivocally DOWN BAD for Millie. 😍 There’s a touch of insta-love on his end, which isn’t usually my favorite, but I couldn’t help loving how completely gone this man was for her. Their romance was sweet, and I appreciated how Austin’s gruff exterior gave way to genuine tenderness.
What I especially appreciated was how Andrews navigated the intersection of mental health and romantic relationships. There’s an important distinction between being someone’s safe place and being solely responsible for their happiness, and I loved that this book didn’t shy away from exploring it.
“It can’t be only me. You can’t put that all on me when I already have so much to carry.”
YES. 👏🏼 Love can be a source of strength and support, but it cannot be the entirety of someone’s emotional foundation. I appreciated seeing that boundary acknowledged in a romance.
All in all, Fair Ball was a lovely sports romance that managed to balance swoony moments with some genuinely heavy subject matter. There’s heart here, but also an understanding that love doesn’t magically erase life’s hardships. A really enjoyable read, and certainly not my last from Sophie Andrews!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4.25 ⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Careful, Boss. You might make me fall in love with an arrogant asshole."
The way I fell for Millie the minute she entered the story, almost like Austin did!! The way the intricate aspects of their relationship were written had me hooked from the beginning. From the purchasing of Harold (whom by the way had me laughing hard every interaction he had with everyone!), to the sorting of the skittles; I love that Austin did as much as he could to keep her working and having jobs to do. He naturally wanted to take care of her, Noah and Shannon. The way he built his relationship with the three of them, entirely different, but equally important!
Austin was broody, seemingly aggressive and abrasive; and wanted desperately not to belong in Philadelphia or to anyone. Millie was unapologetically herself, and advocated for what she needed to feel comfortable and happy. I loved how her autism was written, and how Austin never once invalidated her experiences. He just adapted and learned how to help her. The joke, not joke/ compliment throughout the story made me so happy! I do wish Austin communicated BUT it was absolutely crucial to the story! His relatives were truly insufferable and the family he created for himself helped him heal from things he shouldn't have ever experienced!
I had prepared for heartbreak, and was pleasantly surprised (my heart was thankful) how Shannon's life and sickness was written and handled. Yadi was one of my favourite characters, he was so funny, and knew that Austin had the ability to actually deserve a best friend like him and never took anything to heart. Malcolm's involvement and scenes are always some of my favourites. He's very good at his job, and seems to know his guys better than they know themselves. Nico and Camden's cameo's were perfect too!
I read this in one day, I loved it; Grumpy Sunshine at it's finest!
Thank you Sophie Andrews for the ARC of Fair Ball, this review is my honest thoughts and opinions!
The way I fell for Millie the minute she entered the story, almost like Austin did!! The way the intricate aspects of their relationship were written had me hooked from the beginning. From the purchasing of Harold (whom by the way had me laughing hard every interaction he had with everyone!), to the sorting of the skittles; I love that Austin did as much as he could to keep her working and having jobs to do. He naturally wanted to take care of her, Noah and Shannon. The way he built his relationship with the three of them, entirely different, but equally important!
Austin was broody, seemingly aggressive and abrasive; and wanted desperately not to belong in Philadelphia or to anyone. Millie was unapologetically herself, and advocated for what she needed to feel comfortable and happy. I loved how her autism was written, and how Austin never once invalidated her experiences. He just adapted and learned how to help her. The joke, not joke/ compliment throughout the story made me so happy! I do wish Austin communicated BUT it was absolutely crucial to the story! His relatives were truly insufferable and the family he created for himself helped him heal from things he shouldn't have ever experienced!
I had prepared for heartbreak, and was pleasantly surprised (my heart was thankful) how Shannon's life and sickness was written and handled. Yadi was one of my favourite characters, he was so funny, and knew that Austin had the ability to actually deserve a best friend like him and never took anything to heart. Malcolm's involvement and scenes are always some of my favourites. He's very good at his job, and seems to know his guys better than they know themselves. Nico and Camden's cameo's were perfect too!
I read this in one day, I loved it; Grumpy Sunshine at it's finest!
Thank you Sophie Andrews for the ARC of Fair Ball, this review is my honest thoughts and opinions!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
grumpy/sunshine x boss/assistant x baseball romance x single mom = a perfect game
Austin Ashwood- a grumpy baseball player who is traded to the Philadelphia Thunders after a physical altercation with his brother. Millie Sheehan- a sunshine single mom struggling to keep her life together while caring for her son and sick mother.
I loved how awkward the first interaction between Austin and Millie was, how he kept demanding answers about wearing his jersey, the reasoning behind her crying, then proceeded to offer her a job as soon as she mentioned being unemployed and struggling without second thought. Him coming up with random job tasks like buying a bird that fit his outburst description, starting wearing dry-cleaned clothes regularly when he isn’t used to and buying her a car was equally hilarious and sweet. Their chemistry was unmatched. Two completely unique characters who complemented each other perfectly.
“Austin... Austin, look at me.”
I do, and I think she's the only thing I want to look at for the rest of my life
"I hate everything. But I don't hate you. You are the one good thing in my life. Sometimes it feels like the only good thing."
“It's my choice to be vegetarian, so I'm always prepared to do my own thing.”
"Well, your thing is now my thing."
"You're not just anything. You've said that before. The day we met, you said, I’m just Millie. You're everything.”
“I’m scared, Austin.”
“It’s okay to be scared, but I want you to know that I’ll be here. When you’re afraid, you can come to me. I want you to come to me. I won’t leave you alone in this.”
The found family Austin found with Yadi, Nico and Camden friendship was everything.
Thank you Sophie Andrews, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the ARC!
Austin Ashwood- a grumpy baseball player who is traded to the Philadelphia Thunders after a physical altercation with his brother. Millie Sheehan- a sunshine single mom struggling to keep her life together while caring for her son and sick mother.
I loved how awkward the first interaction between Austin and Millie was, how he kept demanding answers about wearing his jersey, the reasoning behind her crying, then proceeded to offer her a job as soon as she mentioned being unemployed and struggling without second thought. Him coming up with random job tasks like buying a bird that fit his outburst description, starting wearing dry-cleaned clothes regularly when he isn’t used to and buying her a car was equally hilarious and sweet. Their chemistry was unmatched. Two completely unique characters who complemented each other perfectly.
“Austin... Austin, look at me.”
I do, and I think she's the only thing I want to look at for the rest of my life
"I hate everything. But I don't hate you. You are the one good thing in my life. Sometimes it feels like the only good thing."
“It's my choice to be vegetarian, so I'm always prepared to do my own thing.”
"Well, your thing is now my thing."
"You're not just anything. You've said that before. The day we met, you said, I’m just Millie. You're everything.”
“I’m scared, Austin.”
“It’s okay to be scared, but I want you to know that I’ll be here. When you’re afraid, you can come to me. I want you to come to me. I won’t leave you alone in this.”
The found family Austin found with Yadi, Nico and Camden friendship was everything.
Thank you Sophie Andrews, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The first thing that captured my interest to read the book was the artwork. It looked quirky and pretty much explained without words what the book was potentially about. And I have to say after reading—the cover is exactly how I envisioned both Austin and Millie.
So a quick synopsis—Austin comes from a pro baseball dynasty. All his life he's been told he is the spare while his older brother was the heir and golden boy. After an awful betrayal that's knocked him for six, Austin has closed himself off and hardened to those around him to protect himself. That is until he meets red-headed autistic Millie who is a complete breath of fresh air. Millie is dealing with her own personal family issues and grief, but is Austin's sunlight in his own storm. What follows is a lot of comedy, understanding, and a love that creeps up on you when you least expect it.
I absolutely loved this book and I totally related to Millie and all her autistic tendencies—it felt like I was looking in the mirror in parts reading about myself. I loved how the book didn't shy away from real-life issues and it's clear that the author not only wrote about issues in the book but really did her research. There were equal parts emotional elements and comedic—Harold the cockatoo is comedy gold and you can't help but laugh out loud! Equally I loved the ratio of spice in the book coupled with the initial slow burn.
If you love a slow burn romance that doesn't shy away from real-life issues with a good sprinkle of comedy, then this is the book for you! 5/5 stars.
So a quick synopsis—Austin comes from a pro baseball dynasty. All his life he's been told he is the spare while his older brother was the heir and golden boy. After an awful betrayal that's knocked him for six, Austin has closed himself off and hardened to those around him to protect himself. That is until he meets red-headed autistic Millie who is a complete breath of fresh air. Millie is dealing with her own personal family issues and grief, but is Austin's sunlight in his own storm. What follows is a lot of comedy, understanding, and a love that creeps up on you when you least expect it.
I absolutely loved this book and I totally related to Millie and all her autistic tendencies—it felt like I was looking in the mirror in parts reading about myself. I loved how the book didn't shy away from real-life issues and it's clear that the author not only wrote about issues in the book but really did her research. There were equal parts emotional elements and comedic—Harold the cockatoo is comedy gold and you can't help but laugh out loud! Equally I loved the ratio of spice in the book coupled with the initial slow burn.
If you love a slow burn romance that doesn't shy away from real-life issues with a good sprinkle of comedy, then this is the book for you! 5/5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
4.5⭐|3🌶️|10%🌶️frequency
This series really is something special. There are always some reps of different health issues/illnesses. And I'm already very excited about what it will be in book 4. The books only have small connections, so you don't necessarily need to read them in order if you don't want to. Each MMC is a member of a different sports team. And not even different teams, but also plays a different sport. But they know each other 😁
As I said, I love the different health reps. I don't know anything about any of them, so I can't speak about accuracy, but I believe that Sophie did them right. And it's very interesting. Something I love so much about romance books. It's not just about the love story. It's not just about 🌶️. It's so much more. And so much to learn through.
And I'm convinced I've learned a few things through Millie 🩷 She's a strong woman. She went through so much in her life. And it's not just getting pregnant at 18 and being a single mom. She's such an incredible woman. And I loved how strong she stands for herself when it came to the issues Austin has. I was shocked when it all came out 😱
Damnit, so long already and nothing really said 🙈
It's a wonderful book about finding yourself and understanding that asking for help doesn't make you weak.
I loved the connection Austin and Noah had. And the "miss connection" between Austin and Harold 🤣 God, this bird is so funny 😁
Thanks to the author for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
4.5⭐|3🌶️|10%🌶️frequency
This series really is something special. There are always some reps of different health issues/illnesses. And I'm already very excited about what it will be in book 4. The books only have small connections, so you don't necessarily need to read them in order if you don't want to. Each MMC is a member of a different sports team. And not even different teams, but also plays a different sport. But they know each other 😁
As I said, I love the different health reps. I don't know anything about any of them, so I can't speak about accuracy, but I believe that Sophie did them right. And it's very interesting. Something I love so much about romance books. It's not just about the love story. It's not just about 🌶️. It's so much more. And so much to learn through.
And I'm convinced I've learned a few things through Millie 🩷 She's a strong woman. She went through so much in her life. And it's not just getting pregnant at 18 and being a single mom. She's such an incredible woman. And I loved how strong she stands for herself when it came to the issues Austin has. I was shocked when it all came out 😱
Damnit, so long already and nothing really said 🙈
It's a wonderful book about finding yourself and understanding that asking for help doesn't make you weak.
I loved the connection Austin and Noah had. And the "miss connection" between Austin and Harold 🤣 God, this bird is so funny 😁
Thanks to the author for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
October 20, 2026
Austin, a professional baseball player is angry and tormented and thinks everyone hates him for a past on-field transgression, and is struggling to connect with his new city and team. Reluctantly attending a children’s baseball clinic, he pretty much falls instantly in love with a lovely single mom in the crowd, and hires her as his assistant to keep her close. Millie has a lot on her shoulders to take care of with an ailing mother and a kid to raise, and has been quietly struggling but making it all work. Life just got a bit easier with her new assistant job, but rapidly developing an attraction to her boss wasn’t something she meticulously planned for. Will navigating her neurodivergence and her busy life, plus Austin’s spiraling mental health struggles and family problems, make their burgeoning relationship strike out before it even really begins?
This was just an ok romance for me. While the essence of it is good, there are a lot of plot points that get surface level attention. Less could have been more. I love a single mom romance and pairing it with a grumpy guy is nearly perfection for me, but the instalove and the working relationship and way that Austin veered from grumpy to mean too often threw off the overall story for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sophie Andrew’s for the eARC of this book for review.
This was just an ok romance for me. While the essence of it is good, there are a lot of plot points that get surface level attention. Less could have been more. I love a single mom romance and pairing it with a grumpy guy is nearly perfection for me, but the instalove and the working relationship and way that Austin veered from grumpy to mean too often threw off the overall story for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sophie Andrew’s for the eARC of this book for review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“If you wait on the best time to tell someone you love them, you’ll never say it.”
Big thanks to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
JAIL. Straight to jail for you, Sophie Andrews.
I have been loving this series so much and I couldn’t wait to get to the third book in this series. They’re spicy and full of romantic tension, but they’re so emotional and handle such heavy topics so well.
Austin is a pitcher playing in Philadelphia and he hates it. He’s miserable and dealing with the fallout of an incident he had with his brother the previous season. But then he meets Millie, a neurodivergent single mom, and creates an assistant job for her. She becomes his lifeline as much as he becomes hers. Millie is struggling to take of herself, her son, and her ailing mother. She doesn’t understand why Austin wants to help her, and she becomes determined to help him as well.
I love Austin and Millie so much. Austin has shut everyone out and resents his family, and this comes out in panic attacks that he insists aren’t real. He looks to Millie like a lifeline, but her life is just as hard. She’s the primary caregiver for her mother and has been struggling to pay the bills. Both of their traumas and struggles feel so real and relatable.
For Austin specifically, learning that therapy is important and doesn’t make him weak is such a bug part is his journey. While their chemistry and romance is so excellent, the emotional depth of this story is really what makes it shine. Austin has to confront his brother and father and learn to deal with his mental health. He also treats Millie as if her neurodivergence is just a normal part of life instead of making her feel like a burden. His friendship with Yadi also had me kicking my feet. I just loved them so much and if you haven’t read this series I can’t recommend it enough.
Big thanks to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
JAIL. Straight to jail for you, Sophie Andrews.
I have been loving this series so much and I couldn’t wait to get to the third book in this series. They’re spicy and full of romantic tension, but they’re so emotional and handle such heavy topics so well.
Austin is a pitcher playing in Philadelphia and he hates it. He’s miserable and dealing with the fallout of an incident he had with his brother the previous season. But then he meets Millie, a neurodivergent single mom, and creates an assistant job for her. She becomes his lifeline as much as he becomes hers. Millie is struggling to take of herself, her son, and her ailing mother. She doesn’t understand why Austin wants to help her, and she becomes determined to help him as well.
I love Austin and Millie so much. Austin has shut everyone out and resents his family, and this comes out in panic attacks that he insists aren’t real. He looks to Millie like a lifeline, but her life is just as hard. She’s the primary caregiver for her mother and has been struggling to pay the bills. Both of their traumas and struggles feel so real and relatable.
For Austin specifically, learning that therapy is important and doesn’t make him weak is such a bug part is his journey. While their chemistry and romance is so excellent, the emotional depth of this story is really what makes it shine. Austin has to confront his brother and father and learn to deal with his mental health. He also treats Millie as if her neurodivergence is just a normal part of life instead of making her feel like a burden. His friendship with Yadi also had me kicking my feet. I just loved them so much and if you haven’t read this series I can’t recommend it enough.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
I really loved about 70% of this book. It was really sweet how Austin and Millie researched each other so they could understand and relate to each other better, and how they worked to communicate in every way was so heartwarming. I also really loved Yadi and Harold.
What didn't really work for me was the
Overall though, I would definitely read more books by this author!
I really loved about 70% of this book. It was really sweet how Austin and Millie researched each other so they could understand and relate to each other better, and how they worked to communicate in every way was so heartwarming. I also really loved Yadi and Harold.
What didn't really work for me was the
Overall though, I would definitely read more books by this author!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was hoping for a fun sports romance with this one, and I certainly got it - but I also got a lot more!
Millie is a self-diagnosed AuDHDer, a single mom caring for her ailing mother, freshly laid off from her job and trying to keep everything afloat.
Austin is the “spare” in a sports dynasty family who cultivates his “I hate everything” attitude as a subconscious defense mechanism.
After meeting at a youth baseball outreach event attended by Millie and her son, Austin invents a reason to hire Millie as his new personal assistant. No, he does not need a personal assistant. No, he does not care about that part. From that point, grumpy x neurodivergent sunshine ensues!
One of the things I wasn’t expecting out of this book, that I was happy to find, were the ways in which Millie’s neurodivergence affects her desire and needs in a relationship. As someone with neurodivergence, I felt very seen by the way it was written. Another was how well the author addressed Millie’s anticipatory grief with her mother’s illness. I unfortunately have experience with that and felt all the conflicting emotions that exist in that situation were well represented.
Millie is a self-diagnosed AuDHDer, a single mom caring for her ailing mother, freshly laid off from her job and trying to keep everything afloat.
Austin is the “spare” in a sports dynasty family who cultivates his “I hate everything” attitude as a subconscious defense mechanism.
After meeting at a youth baseball outreach event attended by Millie and her son, Austin invents a reason to hire Millie as his new personal assistant. No, he does not need a personal assistant. No, he does not care about that part. From that point, grumpy x neurodivergent sunshine ensues!
One of the things I wasn’t expecting out of this book, that I was happy to find, were the ways in which Millie’s neurodivergence affects her desire and needs in a relationship. As someone with neurodivergence, I felt very seen by the way it was written. Another was how well the author addressed Millie’s anticipatory grief with her mother’s illness. I unfortunately have experience with that and felt all the conflicting emotions that exist in that situation were well represented.
Review of advance copy
Millie tiene un corazón enorme y siempre intenta ver el lado bueno de las cosas, aunque su vida sea un desafío cada día. Aun así, no deja que las dificultades apaguen su alegría ni sus ganas de salir adelante. Su mayor prioridad es Noah, su hijo de diez años y su madre, quien está gravemente enferma. Consciente de que el tiempo que les queda juntas es limitado, Millie quiere hacer todo lo posible para que su madre disfrute de sus últimos días rodeada de amor, incluso cuando ella misma apenas logra mantener su vida en orden.
Cuando pierde su trabajo, sus preocupaciones aumentan, pero una oportunidad inesperada aparece de la mano de Austin Ashwood, un talentoso jugador de béisbol con un carácter complicado y una mala reputación. Lo que comienza como una simple oferta de trabajo pronto se convierte en algo más, especialmente cuando la personalidad alegre y espontánea de Millie empieza a abrirse paso a través de los muros de Austin.
_______-
Agradezco que no se viera la muerte de la mamá y que solo se quede en que en cualquier momento puede morir.
Cuando pierde su trabajo, sus preocupaciones aumentan, pero una oportunidad inesperada aparece de la mano de Austin Ashwood, un talentoso jugador de béisbol con un carácter complicado y una mala reputación. Lo que comienza como una simple oferta de trabajo pronto se convierte en algo más, especialmente cuando la personalidad alegre y espontánea de Millie empieza a abrirse paso a través de los muros de Austin.
_______-
Agradezco que no se viera la muerte de la mamá y que solo se quede en que en cualquier momento puede morir.
Review of advance copy received from Author
There is so much to love about this book! First of all, I think I laughed out loud to Harold more times than I can count. Best side character ever. Millie is adorable. She’s so quirky, fun, compassionate, and even though she tries so hard to fit “normal,” she’s also so free to be herself when the right environment is presented. And my heart practically bled out for Austin. He’s the ultimate grump on the outside and tries so hard to cover up that big, mushy heart of his. Their love is one of those “love comes softly” stories. While the attraction was instant, the emotional connection comes so naturally through conversation and spending time together. I read the book in one sitting because I could not get enough of this couple. It’s sweet, fun, spicy, swoony, and overall a fantastic read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved how Austin trusted his instincts about Millie from the very beginning and how much honesty and trust developed between them. What stood out most was the way the story explored their differences and personal challenges—not as things that needed to be “fixed,” but as parts of themselves, which they learn to understand and navigate together. *Fair Ball* is a sweet, hopeful sports romance that shows how powerful human connection can be when two people ( and a team) truly choose one another.
*Fair Ball was the first book I read in this series, and I did not feel like I was missing context. It can absolutely be read as a stand alone.
I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*Fair Ball was the first book I read in this series, and I did not feel like I was missing context. It can absolutely be read as a stand alone.
I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Millie and Austin's story was amazing. It was an emotional journey for sure. I loved Millie, she was not afraid to be herself after masking for years, she realized she was most likely autistic and working on not feeling pressured by society for it. Austin has his own family issues he's dealing with and anxiety but doesn't want to seem weak for needing help. Millie is the one thing that keeps him grounded and happy. He supports her and doesn't want her to change, he just goes with what she says she needs. Their chemistry and banter was so good. I loved Noah and Shannon and their relationship with Austin.
October 19, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC!
Fair Ball was exactly as expected - grumpy x sunshine, sweet and tension filled but with the perfect amount of spice.
Fair Ball follows a pro baseball player whose reputation is in the drain and his newly hired assistant who is a single mom providing for herself, her kid, and her mother.
I really loved these two together and I even loved the “third act breakup” it was very very necessary to both of their growth and strengthening of their relationship. I am knocking off a star because I had a hard time getting past the “TikTok diagnosed me with Autism” while she did have a therapist that agreed with her, I just found that part really odd and cringey.
Fair Ball was exactly as expected - grumpy x sunshine, sweet and tension filled but with the perfect amount of spice.
Fair Ball follows a pro baseball player whose reputation is in the drain and his newly hired assistant who is a single mom providing for herself, her kid, and her mother.
I really loved these two together and I even loved the “third act breakup” it was very very necessary to both of their growth and strengthening of their relationship. I am knocking off a star because I had a hard time getting past the “TikTok diagnosed me with Autism” while she did have a therapist that agreed with her, I just found that part really odd and cringey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The banter! these two were too perfect! Austin is a total grump and Millie is beautifully chaotic, and actually, pretty relatable, trying to spin all the plates! You don't think they'll work but they absolutely do, their chemistry is chef's kiss. I laughed and I cried in this story, but definitely laughed lots more, itching to read more and couldn't put this down. Yet another fabulous book from the Winning Love series, a multi sports series where everyone gets their HEA. If Sophie writes it, I'm gonna read it!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨Baseball romance
✨Grumpy x sunshine
✨Boss x personal assistant
✨Single mom
WOWWWW I'm obsessed with this one. I absolutely devoured this book and loved every single second between Millie and Austin. He was soooo down bad that he got a (hilarious) bird just to justify her coming around.... need I say more? I loved Millie's emotional maturity and encouragement of Austin as he went through so so much. They truly brought out the most beautiful parts of each other and I loved every single second. I can't recommend this book enough!!
Thank you to Sophie Andrews for allowing me to be on the ARC team 🩷🩷
✨Grumpy x sunshine
✨Boss x personal assistant
✨Single mom
WOWWWW I'm obsessed with this one. I absolutely devoured this book and loved every single second between Millie and Austin. He was soooo down bad that he got a (hilarious) bird just to justify her coming around.... need I say more? I loved Millie's emotional maturity and encouragement of Austin as he went through so so much. They truly brought out the most beautiful parts of each other and I loved every single second. I can't recommend this book enough!!
Thank you to Sophie Andrews for allowing me to be on the ARC team 🩷🩷
October 21, 2026
5 stars, no notes!!!! I seriously loved every minute of this. It was emotional but still had so much humor. I adored both Austin and Millie (and Noah)!! Austin was such a grump, but Millie not only brought the sunshine.. she brought out a lighter side of him, and was such a major part of him getting help for himself. His beef with Harold was absolutely hysterical. 😭😂
The entire Sheehan family stole my heart. I just love them all to pieces!!!
I don’t wanna give too much a way, but just know that I 100% recommend that you pick this up on Oct 23rd!!!
The entire Sheehan family stole my heart. I just love them all to pieces!!!
I don’t wanna give too much a way, but just know that I 100% recommend that you pick this up on Oct 23rd!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was so fortunate to read Fair Ball as a ARC reader, and this book kept me giggling and kicking my feet the whole time! I genuinely couldn't stop reading and finished it in just two days! The development of the main character was absolutely amazing, and the way the author portrayed autistic women was so beautifully done. I loved seeing that representation and how thoughtfully it was written. This book made me smile like an absolute fool, and I honestly didn't want it to end!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Arc review
This was so cute!
They were adorable and so funny!
Millie was hilarious!
Loved the autism representation especially in an older woman and how she was undiagnosed and how she found out she may be autistic. That’s how most women find out they are nowadays.
Loved that Austin loved her quirks and all and they didn’t bother him even when he first met her. He found her adorable from the very beginning.
They were perfect together.
Harold was adorable too.
This was so cute!
They were adorable and so funny!
Millie was hilarious!
Loved the autism representation especially in an older woman and how she was undiagnosed and how she found out she may be autistic. That’s how most women find out they are nowadays.
Loved that Austin loved her quirks and all and they didn’t bother him even when he first met her. He found her adorable from the very beginning.
They were perfect together.
Harold was adorable too.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
- Single mom
- Mental health
- Sports romance
- He falls first and hard
I love how Sophie always writes REAL people and real life in her books.
There's a lot of emotion and mental growth in this one from both characters.
Austin is so protective and obsessed with Millie from first sight *swooooon* and the way he loves her son 🥹
I highly recommend the audio! So you can get some of that philly accent in your ears 🥰
- Mental health
- Sports romance
- He falls first and hard
I love how Sophie always writes REAL people and real life in her books.
There's a lot of emotion and mental growth in this one from both characters.
Austin is so protective and obsessed with Millie from first sight *swooooon* and the way he loves her son 🥹
I highly recommend the audio! So you can get some of that philly accent in your ears 🥰
October 15, 2026
This book had me in an absolute chokehold! Austin's character had my swooningggggg.
Baseball romance
Grumpy x sunshine
Boss x assistant
Single mom
He falls first
Sophie Andrews did such a great job making these characters relatable! Millie is an autistic single mom just trying to get by. And when she stumbles into Austin's life, he doesn't let go of her and her son Noah.
Austin is such a grump, but for Millie, he was the best kind. I loved his devotion to making her happy and how she brought him out of the funk that he's been in for a really long time.
These two were seemingly the missing piece to each others puzzle and I really loved that!
Baseball romance
Grumpy x sunshine
Boss x assistant
Single mom
He falls first
Sophie Andrews did such a great job making these characters relatable! Millie is an autistic single mom just trying to get by. And when she stumbles into Austin's life, he doesn't let go of her and her son Noah.
Austin is such a grump, but for Millie, he was the best kind. I loved his devotion to making her happy and how she brought him out of the funk that he's been in for a really long time.
These two were seemingly the missing piece to each others puzzle and I really loved that!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I see a lot of myself in Millie and loved the undiagnosed autism representation in this book! It was a nice blend of sweet and spicy with a fair bit of comedy in the form of Harold the bird, but also had a couple heavy moments that left me with a tear in my eye (but luckily no need for tissues as I was not in the mood for something to cry when I read this one).
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy
I really like this sportsball series. Austin buying a bird just to make up a reason to spend time with Millie had me in stitches. Loved the single mom trope with this one. Noah was such a good kid. Millie was the best mom. Loved the autism rep too! Can't wait for more in the series!
October 18, 2026
This was such a fun story! I loved both of the characters so much, especially that it included topics that are often not addressed in romance books. It made the plot more relatable and easy to get lost in. Love love love!
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October 22, 2026sensitivity read <3
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