4.5 Stars
Caitlyn Murray would do anything to see the man she's fantasized about for years finally follow his dream of getting into Baseball's major league ranks. Especially after he sacrificed that very dream to return to Sapphire Falls and run his family's business after his dad had a stroke. So, if she has to kidnap him to make it happen, then she'll do it.
Eli Anderson has always thought of his best friend's sister as sweet and innocent. But the moment Caitlyn tricks him into taking a drive with her, he begins to see her in a different light. A light where the two of them together alone on a road trip could lead to the best time of his life, or cause him to lose her forever if they decide to yield to the strong chemistry that exists between them.
Although I haven't read any of the Between the Bases books by Ms. Bernard, I absolutely love the Sapphire Falls series by Ms. Nicholas, and I've got to say that this book encompassing the brother's best friend trope was another worthwhile read for both series. The couple's growing relationship, the well-written dialogue that was filled with plenty of light-hearted moments, and the obstacle-packed plot made this story captivating and so fast-paced that I couldn't believe how quickly I finished it.
I really liked both the main and secondary characters. The heroine's brother is trouble with a capital T in the way that he does things that are beyond his capabilities. Then again, I couldn't blame him for wanting to make the most out of life, and do what he thinks is best for everyone, especially Caitlyn and his mom. He can't afford to continue making his mother believe that everything is fine when he knows he's not going to get back to normal. When he knows that he'll continue to need his wheelchair.
Caitlyn is loyal, kind, caring, and tenacious. She would do anything to help her family including sacrificing her chance at a future with Eli. Then there's the way she helps the hero by giving him a rundown of his pitching skills during the tryout that proved how much she wants him to succeed. Plus, it shows they have something in common -- a love for baseball. While Eli, he's confident, loyal and determined to do his best to succeed because it seems that following his dream is not only good for him but also his dad. He's also determined to prove to Caitlyn that the two of them belong together by sacrificing his chance at playing in the major league. However, I liked that she didn't allow that to happen. That she, too, proved that they could be together once her brother gives her a good talking to about how it's her time to be happy. Instead, of her continuing to put her happiness on hold for his sake.
Overall, this was an incredible read where the sex scenes were hot and illustrated how good this couple are together. The way this story was wrapped up was perfect, as everyone is so proud of Eli achieving his dream and want to see how good he is by seeing him play. I would recommend Getting Wound Up, if you enjoy the brother's best friend trope.