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Boys of Summer #1
Pitch Perfect
She’d be the perfect catch if he could take his eye off the ball.
Emmy Kasper knows exactly how lucky she is. In a sport with few opportunities for women at the pro level, she’s just landed her dream job as head athletic trainer for the San Francisco Felons baseball team. Screwing up is not an option.
She’s lost in thought as she pedals to the spring training facility, her mind abuzz with excitement as she rounds a corner—and plows head-on into two runners. The end of her career dances before her eyes when she realizes she’s almost run over the star pitcher.
As Tucker Lloyd watches the flustered Emmy escape with his bandana tied around her skinned knee, the view is a pleasant change from worrying about his flagging fastball. At thirty-six, the tail end of his career is glimmering on the horizon. If he can’t pull something extraordinary out of his ball cap, the new crop of rookies could make this season his last.
The last thing either of them needs is a distraction.
The last thing either of them expects is love.
Contains a down-on-his-luck pitcher, a good-girl athletic therapist, chemistry that’s out of the park and sexy times that’ll make them round all the bases.
Emmy Kasper knows exactly how lucky she is. In a sport with few opportunities for women at the pro level, she’s just landed her dream job as head athletic trainer for the San Francisco Felons baseball team. Screwing up is not an option.
She’s lost in thought as she pedals to the spring training facility, her mind abuzz with excitement as she rounds a corner—and plows head-on into two runners. The end of her career dances before her eyes when she realizes she’s almost run over the star pitcher.
As Tucker Lloyd watches the flustered Emmy escape with his bandana tied around her skinned knee, the view is a pleasant change from worrying about his flagging fastball. At thirty-six, the tail end of his career is glimmering on the horizon. If he can’t pull something extraordinary out of his ball cap, the new crop of rookies could make this season his last.
The last thing either of them needs is a distraction.
The last thing either of them expects is love.
Contains a down-on-his-luck pitcher, a good-girl athletic therapist, chemistry that’s out of the park and sexy times that’ll make them round all the bases.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2013
17 people are currently reading
847 people want to read
About the author
Sierra Dean
53 books624 followersSierra Dean is a reformed historian. She was born and raised in the Canadian prairies and is allowed annual exit visas in order to continue her quest of steadily conquering the world one city at a time. Making the best of the cold Canadian winters, Sierra indulges in her less global interests: drinking too much tea and writing urban fantasy.
Ever since she was a young girl she has loved the idea of the supernatural coexisting with the mundane. As an adult, however, the idea evolved from the notion of fairies in flower beds, to imagining that the rugged-looking guy at the garage might secretly be a werewolf. She has used her overactive imagination to create her own version of the world, where vampire, werewolves, fairies, gods and monsters all walk among us, and she’ll continue to travel as much as possible until she finds it for real.
She’s also a book lover (of course!), obsessive collector of OPI nailpolish and the owner of way too many pairs of shoes.
Ever since she was a young girl she has loved the idea of the supernatural coexisting with the mundane. As an adult, however, the idea evolved from the notion of fairies in flower beds, to imagining that the rugged-looking guy at the garage might secretly be a werewolf. She has used her overactive imagination to create her own version of the world, where vampire, werewolves, fairies, gods and monsters all walk among us, and she’ll continue to travel as much as possible until she finds it for real.
She’s also a book lover (of course!), obsessive collector of OPI nailpolish and the owner of way too many pairs of shoes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 24, 2023
This book was a favorite of mine from page one. Tucker and Emmy. Oh my. The chemistry. It's scorching, and it is present from the first meeting. But, what I love about it is that the chemistry, and the attraction, is also mixed in with a genuine like and respect for one another. Tucker wants Emmy, from day one. And, the feeling is mutual, but she has a boyfriend. And, he respects that. The story reminds me of "Break Up With Him" by Old Dominion. If you aren't a country fan, it's worth checking out...and it really is Tucker and Emmy. The friendship, the attraction that is mostly un-acted upon (there is this moment in Chicago that is, well, Emmy sums it up quite well) and the general pull they have to one another.
The moments of friendship between them are great, and they let you get to know Emmy and Tucker as people. And, you like them both. If you can read this book and not fall in love with Tucker, read it again, you accidentally skipped a chapter.
Tucker is great. From the initial meeting with Emmy all the way to the end, he is the guy you want to see win, the guy you cheer for. The good guy. And, his actions show it. Yes, he is a little down on his luck, but she is the new girl on the team, he is well-respected, the pitcher, and not new. But, from the beginning, he respects her. He respects her job, that she is in a relationship, all of it. And, the forbidden element of their relationship keeps the build up to the start of their relationship intense but also realistic.
The scene with her in his house, when there is finally more than friends between them is always going to be one of my favorites. His reactions, especially, to the things she tells him, the things she says and does, are priceless.
Their entire relationship is real. You like both of them, they are interesting and they are real. By the end, which I will not spoil, you are pulling so completely for both of them that you are teary. That takes talent on the part of the author.
So, let's talk about Sierra Dean. She can write. She tells a great story, you believe the characters, the pacing is strong and there is nothing left out. At the end of the book, you feel like you got the whole story. And, you are satisfied with the ending, even if all of the things aren't 100% tied up neatly and happily...the things that really matter are, and that is the point.
Some books just work, they are the kind of books that stay with you, that you can't put down, that you MUST read, and tell others about, and swoon over, and remember years after you finish it the first time. And, then there is the begging of the author on Twitter to write another baseball book.
(Which I might add is happening later this year, I like to credit myself for that...ok not really, but it was fun to say.)
This book. Seriously. Read it. You will be glad you did, and you will want to read it again. And again.
I recommend this book.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog “Booked All Night” http://bookedallnightblog.com/ and here: https://www.facebook.com/BookedAllNight/***
The moments of friendship between them are great, and they let you get to know Emmy and Tucker as people. And, you like them both. If you can read this book and not fall in love with Tucker, read it again, you accidentally skipped a chapter.
Tucker is great. From the initial meeting with Emmy all the way to the end, he is the guy you want to see win, the guy you cheer for. The good guy. And, his actions show it. Yes, he is a little down on his luck, but she is the new girl on the team, he is well-respected, the pitcher, and not new. But, from the beginning, he respects her. He respects her job, that she is in a relationship, all of it. And, the forbidden element of their relationship keeps the build up to the start of their relationship intense but also realistic.
The scene with her in his house, when there is finally more than friends between them is always going to be one of my favorites. His reactions, especially, to the things she tells him, the things she says and does, are priceless.
Their entire relationship is real. You like both of them, they are interesting and they are real. By the end, which I will not spoil, you are pulling so completely for both of them that you are teary. That takes talent on the part of the author.
So, let's talk about Sierra Dean. She can write. She tells a great story, you believe the characters, the pacing is strong and there is nothing left out. At the end of the book, you feel like you got the whole story. And, you are satisfied with the ending, even if all of the things aren't 100% tied up neatly and happily...the things that really matter are, and that is the point.
Some books just work, they are the kind of books that stay with you, that you can't put down, that you MUST read, and tell others about, and swoon over, and remember years after you finish it the first time. And, then there is the begging of the author on Twitter to write another baseball book.
(Which I might add is happening later this year, I like to credit myself for that...ok not really, but it was fun to say.)
This book. Seriously. Read it. You will be glad you did, and you will want to read it again. And again.
I recommend this book.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog “Booked All Night” http://bookedallnightblog.com/ and here: https://www.facebook.com/BookedAllNight/***
April 19, 2015
Breaking my usual "I don't review rule" because I also don't usually read contemporary romance. I need more explosions and monsters mixed with my kissy scenes. But this was a baseball romance, written by someone who knows and loves the game. And it showed.
Engaging romance + intense baseball plot = homerun
Engaging romance + intense baseball plot = homerun
August 2, 2013
Posted at Yummy Men & Kick Ass Chicks
I am going to come right out and say that I am not a fan of baseball. I find it slow and a little dull. I am a huge fan of Sierra’s writing and I know that she is a huge baseball fan. So when I found out she was writing a contemporary romance series about members of a baseball team I was not surprised. What did surprise me was how much I enjoyed the baseball aspects of this book even not being a fan! Sierra does an absolutely amazing job sucking you into the games and you can’t help but cheer for the team while completely understanding what is going on. And not once is it dull.
But I am getting ahead of myself – as often happens when I talk about a book by this author. Let’s go back to the beginning, shall we?
Pitch Perfect is the first book in Sierra Dean’s new Boys of Summer series. In this installment, we meet key members of the Falons (Sierra’s made up major league ball team) and we witness the team’s dynamic, which is very good. Tucker is the main hero this time around. He’s a pitcher on the team and just getting back from a year off after having surgery. He’s determined to make it back on top but has a vulnerability to him when he’s feeling his confidence waver. He is such a well written hero. In a sea of crazy-almost-too-over-the-top alpha romance heroes, Tucker is a wonderful breath of fresh air. He is strong but not a jerk. Even as famous and as wealthy as he is, he has not let it get to his head. He treats his teammates with respect. For me, that was very important. I didn’t want to read a whole book about a sports diva – that would have gotten on my nerves. He’s a very well balance hero, one who is extremely sexy and swoon worthy, intelligent and kind. In my opinion, he is the best sort of contemporary romance hero.
He is also very good to and for Emmy.
Emmy I liked. She’s the head athletic trainer for the Felons and therefore is a chick in a man’s world. I loved how Sierra described Emmy while she worked. You really got a feel for what she was doing and you really felt she knew what she was doing. You also felt her passion for her work. She is good at what she does and she knows it. She has a boyfriend at the beginning of the book and I even liked how she handled that situation. She is drawn to Tucker but is respectful of her relationship with Simon. I liked how she handled every situation thrown at her. She was smart about things yet still normal. You know, human. And I love her with Tucker.
There are quite a few notable scenes in this book. Emmy and Tucker’s meet-cute is adorable. And there is a break-up scene that is not like any I have read before. I laughed so much during that scene because Sierra writes so visually that I totally pictured what was going on and how the people involved were reacting. I also absolutely adored the game near the end of the book. This is one game that spans a few chapters and let me tell you my heart was in my throat the entire time. And remember – I don’t even like baseball! Tucker is on his way to pitching a perfect game. OMG Will he do it? Or will Sierra be as mean to him as she is to Secret and crew in her UF series and have him bomb it at the very last minute? I really wanted Tucker to do well and I really wanted the team to win. Sierra really did a brilliant job writing that game.
One of the reasons Sierra did so well with this book is not just because she is a baseball fan but she did a lot of research while writing it. She even interviewed the head athletic trainer for the LA Dodgers! And you can really tell. But you don’t feel like she’s writing while thinking “look at all the stuff I know about baseball and therefore I am made of awesome”. She is sharing her love of the sport while setting up her scenes and her characters. It’s all very well blended and very well done.
As I mentioned we meet other team mates and other members or the athletic department in this book. Alex is the catcher and Tucker’s best friend. His is the next book and I know I am going to enjoy knowing more about him. He comes across as a bit harsh at times but you also catch glimpses of a keen intelligence there. We also meet his HEA Alice and that should be an interesting match-up. We also meet Miles and Jasper, the other heroes for this series. Neither are jerks or pompous idiots and I can’t wait to read each one of their tales.
As you can tell, this book got me all excited because I feel I found a contemporary romance series with the potential to jump onto my favorite list. My credentials for contemporary romances to end up on my list is tougher than other genres. I read contemps to unwind after reading a bunch of heavier UF books. I need to be able to pick it up and read it then want to re-read it right away. And I need to feel I can re-read it many times over the next few years. I like the way this series is set up and the characters are some I know I will want to visit again and again.
Pitch Perfect is a truly excellent read. I would recommend this to any fan of the genre.
5 stars
I am going to come right out and say that I am not a fan of baseball. I find it slow and a little dull. I am a huge fan of Sierra’s writing and I know that she is a huge baseball fan. So when I found out she was writing a contemporary romance series about members of a baseball team I was not surprised. What did surprise me was how much I enjoyed the baseball aspects of this book even not being a fan! Sierra does an absolutely amazing job sucking you into the games and you can’t help but cheer for the team while completely understanding what is going on. And not once is it dull.
But I am getting ahead of myself – as often happens when I talk about a book by this author. Let’s go back to the beginning, shall we?
Pitch Perfect is the first book in Sierra Dean’s new Boys of Summer series. In this installment, we meet key members of the Falons (Sierra’s made up major league ball team) and we witness the team’s dynamic, which is very good. Tucker is the main hero this time around. He’s a pitcher on the team and just getting back from a year off after having surgery. He’s determined to make it back on top but has a vulnerability to him when he’s feeling his confidence waver. He is such a well written hero. In a sea of crazy-almost-too-over-the-top alpha romance heroes, Tucker is a wonderful breath of fresh air. He is strong but not a jerk. Even as famous and as wealthy as he is, he has not let it get to his head. He treats his teammates with respect. For me, that was very important. I didn’t want to read a whole book about a sports diva – that would have gotten on my nerves. He’s a very well balance hero, one who is extremely sexy and swoon worthy, intelligent and kind. In my opinion, he is the best sort of contemporary romance hero.
He is also very good to and for Emmy.
Emmy I liked. She’s the head athletic trainer for the Felons and therefore is a chick in a man’s world. I loved how Sierra described Emmy while she worked. You really got a feel for what she was doing and you really felt she knew what she was doing. You also felt her passion for her work. She is good at what she does and she knows it. She has a boyfriend at the beginning of the book and I even liked how she handled that situation. She is drawn to Tucker but is respectful of her relationship with Simon. I liked how she handled every situation thrown at her. She was smart about things yet still normal. You know, human. And I love her with Tucker.
There are quite a few notable scenes in this book. Emmy and Tucker’s meet-cute is adorable. And there is a break-up scene that is not like any I have read before. I laughed so much during that scene because Sierra writes so visually that I totally pictured what was going on and how the people involved were reacting. I also absolutely adored the game near the end of the book. This is one game that spans a few chapters and let me tell you my heart was in my throat the entire time. And remember – I don’t even like baseball! Tucker is on his way to pitching a perfect game. OMG Will he do it? Or will Sierra be as mean to him as she is to Secret and crew in her UF series and have him bomb it at the very last minute? I really wanted Tucker to do well and I really wanted the team to win. Sierra really did a brilliant job writing that game.
One of the reasons Sierra did so well with this book is not just because she is a baseball fan but she did a lot of research while writing it. She even interviewed the head athletic trainer for the LA Dodgers! And you can really tell. But you don’t feel like she’s writing while thinking “look at all the stuff I know about baseball and therefore I am made of awesome”. She is sharing her love of the sport while setting up her scenes and her characters. It’s all very well blended and very well done.
As I mentioned we meet other team mates and other members or the athletic department in this book. Alex is the catcher and Tucker’s best friend. His is the next book and I know I am going to enjoy knowing more about him. He comes across as a bit harsh at times but you also catch glimpses of a keen intelligence there. We also meet his HEA Alice and that should be an interesting match-up. We also meet Miles and Jasper, the other heroes for this series. Neither are jerks or pompous idiots and I can’t wait to read each one of their tales.
As you can tell, this book got me all excited because I feel I found a contemporary romance series with the potential to jump onto my favorite list. My credentials for contemporary romances to end up on my list is tougher than other genres. I read contemps to unwind after reading a bunch of heavier UF books. I need to be able to pick it up and read it then want to re-read it right away. And I need to feel I can re-read it many times over the next few years. I like the way this series is set up and the characters are some I know I will want to visit again and again.
Pitch Perfect is a truly excellent read. I would recommend this to any fan of the genre.
5 stars
November 21, 2014
3.5 stars
I know that Sierra Dean has written quite a LOT in urban fantasy genre with her Secret McQueen books -- but I guess I am a bit too lazy to catch up with them. Then I saw this one, and it's contemporary sport romance, and I thought, heck, why not? I'm finding my way back to M/F Contemporary Romance this year anyway.
Overall, I thought it was good. I thought Emmy and Tucker did have chemistry. I wasn't feeling too happy with the idea of Emmy having a long-distance relationship (although I didn't actually see her heads over heel in love with the boyfriend too) and then had some sort of 'moments' with Tucker. I admit, I never find it easy to read a book that flirts with cheating -- although it's not a deal breaker either. I just thought it wasn't a strong emotional issue here because again, Emmy didn't exactly love his boyfriend. Though it was nice that the resolution of that wasn't exactly a 'drama' as well.
Tucker was quite likeable -- I liked the idea of an 'aging' athlete (gosh, sport is cruel when 36 is OLD, huh?) who was trying to get back to the top of his game. I liked his friendship with Alex as well. It was fun reading their banters.
The middle part was a bit dragging for me -- or maybe I lost focus after awhile. Please noted that Emmy and Tucker were trying to be 'friends' first (well, SHE tried to stop things from moving forward because of the long-distance relationship while HE was pretty much challenging her about it) and they didn't immediately jump to bed. So the sex happened after halfway through -- but somehow it didn't feel as rewarding for me.
Now as for the baseball element, there were enough games here for the sports-fan to enjoy. I know SQUAT about baseball -- it's not a game in Indonesia -- so I don't know how authentic it is in this story. But I will say that the last two chapters brought a triumphant feeling related to the game, when Tucker . It is like watching one of those sport movies about achieving something great, even if it's fictional -- it surely kept me on the edge of my seat!
So I might lost attention in the middle but I thought the ending was great and I liked Emmy and Tucker together.
I know that Sierra Dean has written quite a LOT in urban fantasy genre with her Secret McQueen books -- but I guess I am a bit too lazy to catch up with them. Then I saw this one, and it's contemporary sport romance, and I thought, heck, why not? I'm finding my way back to M/F Contemporary Romance this year anyway.
Overall, I thought it was good. I thought Emmy and Tucker did have chemistry. I wasn't feeling too happy with the idea of Emmy having a long-distance relationship (although I didn't actually see her heads over heel in love with the boyfriend too) and then had some sort of 'moments' with Tucker. I admit, I never find it easy to read a book that flirts with cheating -- although it's not a deal breaker either. I just thought it wasn't a strong emotional issue here because again, Emmy didn't exactly love his boyfriend. Though it was nice that the resolution of that wasn't exactly a 'drama' as well.
Tucker was quite likeable -- I liked the idea of an 'aging' athlete (gosh, sport is cruel when 36 is OLD, huh?) who was trying to get back to the top of his game. I liked his friendship with Alex as well. It was fun reading their banters.
The middle part was a bit dragging for me -- or maybe I lost focus after awhile. Please noted that Emmy and Tucker were trying to be 'friends' first (well, SHE tried to stop things from moving forward because of the long-distance relationship while HE was pretty much challenging her about it) and they didn't immediately jump to bed. So the sex happened after halfway through -- but somehow it didn't feel as rewarding for me.
Now as for the baseball element, there were enough games here for the sports-fan to enjoy. I know SQUAT about baseball -- it's not a game in Indonesia -- so I don't know how authentic it is in this story. But I will say that the last two chapters brought a triumphant feeling related to the game, when Tucker . It is like watching one of those sport movies about achieving something great, even if it's fictional -- it surely kept me on the edge of my seat!
So I might lost attention in the middle but I thought the ending was great and I liked Emmy and Tucker together.
December 27, 2023
{Lu en VF}
3.5 ⭐
J'étais passée à côté de ce roman lors de sa publication, mais la sortie prochaine du 2ème tome m'a donné envie de lui donner une chance !
Je préfère le dire avant tout, le personnage (et le sujet) majeur de ce roman c'est ... le base ball ! Un sport très méconnu chez nous, et là, on sent que l'autrice est véritablement passionnée par ce sport car elle en parle énormément. Le bouquin regorge de détails ultra techniques sur les types de lancers, la technique ... Et pour moi, c'était trop, je me suis perdue dans ces détails qui n'intéressaient pas, et surtout, ne me parlaient pas. Un bref rappel des règles principales du base ball et des rôles respectifs des joueurs aurait été bienvenu, en guise de prologue par exemple (ou ajouté lors de la traduction).
Contrairement à ce que la couv peut suggérer, la romance est plutôt à ranger dans la catégorie slow burn, avec des personnages plus âgés que la moyenne (36 pour lui, 32 pour elle). La relation évolue avec beaucoup de fluidité et de naturel, ils sont attirés l'un par l'autre, apprennent à se connaître et deviennent complices, mais la nature amoureuse de cette relation vient peu à peu, ce que je trouve pertinent et bienvenu.
Ils sont bien charmants tous les deux, bien qu'ils ne m'aient pas mis collé des papillons dans le ventre. J'aurais aimé les connaître davantage, de façon moins superficielle, car au final je n'ai pas l'impression de savoir grand chose sur eux.
Une lecture plutôt sympathique donc, mais les trop nombreux détails techniques ont rendu ma lecture un poil trop ardue. J'espère que le tome suivant, consacré à Alex (alias le mec potelé ...) sera moins rébarbatif sur ce point. ;)
3.5 ⭐
J'étais passée à côté de ce roman lors de sa publication, mais la sortie prochaine du 2ème tome m'a donné envie de lui donner une chance !
Je préfère le dire avant tout, le personnage (et le sujet) majeur de ce roman c'est ... le base ball ! Un sport très méconnu chez nous, et là, on sent que l'autrice est véritablement passionnée par ce sport car elle en parle énormément. Le bouquin regorge de détails ultra techniques sur les types de lancers, la technique ... Et pour moi, c'était trop, je me suis perdue dans ces détails qui n'intéressaient pas, et surtout, ne me parlaient pas. Un bref rappel des règles principales du base ball et des rôles respectifs des joueurs aurait été bienvenu, en guise de prologue par exemple (ou ajouté lors de la traduction).
Contrairement à ce que la couv peut suggérer, la romance est plutôt à ranger dans la catégorie slow burn, avec des personnages plus âgés que la moyenne (36 pour lui, 32 pour elle). La relation évolue avec beaucoup de fluidité et de naturel, ils sont attirés l'un par l'autre, apprennent à se connaître et deviennent complices, mais la nature amoureuse de cette relation vient peu à peu, ce que je trouve pertinent et bienvenu.
Ils sont bien charmants tous les deux, bien qu'ils ne m'aient pas mis collé des papillons dans le ventre. J'aurais aimé les connaître davantage, de façon moins superficielle, car au final je n'ai pas l'impression de savoir grand chose sur eux.
Une lecture plutôt sympathique donc, mais les trop nombreux détails techniques ont rendu ma lecture un poil trop ardue. J'espère que le tome suivant, consacré à Alex (alias le mec potelé ...) sera moins rébarbatif sur ce point. ;)
August 8, 2013
Baseball, it's not that I do not like the game (actually I take that back I don't). It's a game that we do not have here, no one watches it, so I am always lost. But it did not matter that I do not understand one inning of the sport. This book sailed me through it. Also, it would make the best baseball movie, I would totally watch it and hope for someone hot to play Tucker. But that is not what I meant to talk about.
This book is about baseball, well that is the background. The true story is the budding romance between Emmy and Tucker. As they work together it should not happen but the chemistry is just so right. I also like that the author made them work for it. There was friendship first, and they hid those other feelings.
Emmy is nice hardworking woman. I can't say anything bad about her, and Tucker is is the same. Together they just seem perfect. I rooted for them. I also wanted him to get his career back. Look at me, going all wohoo Baseball.
Conclusion:
It was a fun and cute contemporary romance book with lots of passion too of course. It also made me want to read more in this series, and I have my eye on someone. Oh and I still want that movie too ;)
This book is about baseball, well that is the background. The true story is the budding romance between Emmy and Tucker. As they work together it should not happen but the chemistry is just so right. I also like that the author made them work for it. There was friendship first, and they hid those other feelings.
Emmy is nice hardworking woman. I can't say anything bad about her, and Tucker is is the same. Together they just seem perfect. I rooted for them. I also wanted him to get his career back. Look at me, going all wohoo Baseball.
Conclusion:
It was a fun and cute contemporary romance book with lots of passion too of course. It also made me want to read more in this series, and I have my eye on someone. Oh and I still want that movie too ;)
August 14, 2013
Emmy Kasper has nailed her dream job as head athletic trainer for the San Francisco Felons. Of course her first day doesn’t go as planned when she accidentally crashes her bike into baseball star pitcher Tucker Lloyd. Tucker should have been ticked at the woman who could have done him bodily harm, but he cannot get her out of his mind. Realizing she is now part of his team, Tucker is not sure if he wants the distraction but he can’t seem to stay away from Emmy. Tucker is towards the end of his career and he needs a breakout season to ensure he has a few years left. What he is not expecting is that his trainer is quickly becoming his best asset.
Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=9143
Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=9143
August 5, 2013
Tucker and Emmy
Come tell us what your favorite sports team is and maybe win a copy of the book! http://fictionvixen.com/review-pitch-...
Really, really liked this book. It was a perfect combination of baseball and romance. What more could you ask for? Full review to come on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews
Come tell us what your favorite sports team is and maybe win a copy of the book! http://fictionvixen.com/review-pitch-...
Really, really liked this book. It was a perfect combination of baseball and romance. What more could you ask for? Full review to come on Fiction Vixen Book Reviews
February 27, 2023
It's not bad. The base of the book are the many games they play, so its a patchy development.
Charachters are introduced but without any follow-up role. So, we get an ESPN announcer, an ex journalist boyfriend, and her very familiar baseball player dad, but none of them progress beyond a few paras. This makes the story extremely shallow. Even their love story isn't very progressive . It's just is.
It's a very superficial story, and I'm a little disappointed that the author hasn't taken the trouble to develop and round the story off well.
Recommended : meh 😐
Charachters are introduced but without any follow-up role. So, we get an ESPN announcer, an ex journalist boyfriend, and her very familiar baseball player dad, but none of them progress beyond a few paras. This makes the story extremely shallow. Even their love story isn't very progressive . It's just is.
It's a very superficial story, and I'm a little disappointed that the author hasn't taken the trouble to develop and round the story off well.
Recommended : meh 😐
July 23, 2014
*Warning: This review contains gifs, photos and lots of flail*
You know the old adage ‘Never judge a book by its cover’? Well, I’ve got to admit that I judge books by their covers. However, in this case it is fair to say that the guy clearly clawing the girl’s breast on the cover is not an accurate reflection of how awesome this book is. Sidenote: given that Emmy talks a lot about how chilly it is in San Francisco, would it really be likely she would be wearing a cropped top?! And onto other matters …:
There’s a book on my ‘To Read’ shelf called Everything I Know About Love, I Learned From Romance Novels, well, I think it's fair to say everything I know about baseball I learned from romance novels. That little titbit is pertinent to this review simply because I know next to nothing about American sports so therefore, I don’t care whether the baseball was accurate in this book, I care that it felt accurate. Other things I care about:
THERE WAS A FLEETWOOD MAC QUOTE:
“It’s not just Tucker. I think I’d been hanging on to things too long because I was afraid of change.”
Alex hummed the first bar of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Landslide’ …
I just about died when I saw that. Sierra Dean you have my infinite respect for that.
Emmy is a Halls & Oates fan:
"She listens to Hall and Oates's 'Private Eyes' before she starts any of her warm-ups!"
"The first thing she went to was Hall and Oates greatest hits, starting with 'Private Eyes' and going on shuffle from there."
Why hello, I am also a HUGE H&O fan <3!
Tucker took Emmy to Giordano’s and the Willis Tower in Chicago. Guess where I was almost a year ago:
Given the 99% of the contemporary romances I read are based in USA (and usually in a small town no one has heard of), do you know how often it is I get to say that I have actually visited locations mentioned in books? Almost never. This is almost as exciting as if they had visited the Bean in Millennium Park or Buckingham Fountain which are two (of many) favourite things about Chicago. And the bits of the book that weren’t set in Chicago were set in San Francisco, incidentally another city I have visited. LOVE.
And now we’ve covered my music and travel interests and my lack of interest in sports, onto other things I loved:
I love that there was a long lead-up to Tucker and Emmy actually getting together because that bit is my favourite part of every relationship and the sexual tension between them sizzled.
I love the author's writing style. It really worked for me, adding subtle humour and just enough descriptions to set the scene. Speaking of which ...
I love how she made you feel you were right there watching the baseball game. I mean I've never set foot near a baseball stadium but I came away feeling like I had been.
I love the way the third person in the relationship (Simon) was handled. The author didn't feel the need to make him this horrible person just to give Emmy an excuse to break up with him and move on with Tucker. I really felt like they had just drifted apart.
And finally, I love the secondary characters and can't wait to see who the second book in the series is about.
www.loveisastateofmind.net
You know the old adage ‘Never judge a book by its cover’? Well, I’ve got to admit that I judge books by their covers. However, in this case it is fair to say that the guy clearly clawing the girl’s breast on the cover is not an accurate reflection of how awesome this book is. Sidenote: given that Emmy talks a lot about how chilly it is in San Francisco, would it really be likely she would be wearing a cropped top?! And onto other matters …:
There’s a book on my ‘To Read’ shelf called Everything I Know About Love, I Learned From Romance Novels, well, I think it's fair to say everything I know about baseball I learned from romance novels. That little titbit is pertinent to this review simply because I know next to nothing about American sports so therefore, I don’t care whether the baseball was accurate in this book, I care that it felt accurate. Other things I care about:
THERE WAS A FLEETWOOD MAC QUOTE:
“It’s not just Tucker. I think I’d been hanging on to things too long because I was afraid of change.”
Alex hummed the first bar of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Landslide’ …
I just about died when I saw that. Sierra Dean you have my infinite respect for that.
Emmy is a Halls & Oates fan:
"She listens to Hall and Oates's 'Private Eyes' before she starts any of her warm-ups!"
"The first thing she went to was Hall and Oates greatest hits, starting with 'Private Eyes' and going on shuffle from there."
Why hello, I am also a HUGE H&O fan <3!
Tucker took Emmy to Giordano’s and the Willis Tower in Chicago. Guess where I was almost a year ago:
Given the 99% of the contemporary romances I read are based in USA (and usually in a small town no one has heard of), do you know how often it is I get to say that I have actually visited locations mentioned in books? Almost never. This is almost as exciting as if they had visited the Bean in Millennium Park or Buckingham Fountain which are two (of many) favourite things about Chicago. And the bits of the book that weren’t set in Chicago were set in San Francisco, incidentally another city I have visited. LOVE.
And now we’ve covered my music and travel interests and my lack of interest in sports, onto other things I loved:
I love that there was a long lead-up to Tucker and Emmy actually getting together because that bit is my favourite part of every relationship and the sexual tension between them sizzled.
I love the author's writing style. It really worked for me, adding subtle humour and just enough descriptions to set the scene. Speaking of which ...
I love how she made you feel you were right there watching the baseball game. I mean I've never set foot near a baseball stadium but I came away feeling like I had been.
I love the way the third person in the relationship (Simon) was handled. The author didn't feel the need to make him this horrible person just to give Emmy an excuse to break up with him and move on with Tucker. I really felt like they had just drifted apart.
And finally, I love the secondary characters and can't wait to see who the second book in the series is about.
www.loveisastateofmind.net
June 19, 2013
For me to write a recap about this book, would mean talk baseball. I can’t do that. I hate sports. I loathe sports on t.v.. So, why on earth did I want to read a sports romance? Good question. I have asked myself that question while reading the book, and I did want to quit a few times. But I did not. And why is that, you want to know? Well, I started reading it because it is a Sierra Dean book. And Sierra did what she does so well: write amazing characters. I kept reading because I fell for the main characters, and I did like the slow romance part. Just like Sierra kept me reading the first Secret McQueen books, when it got at times too scary for me, and I still could not stop reading.
If you do like baseball, and you like reading romance novels, this book will be like heaven to you. It is very big on the baseball things. From the start of the training season, to the games and everything that is necessary to have a functioning team.
So, what exactly did I like about this one? For starters, the heroine. Emmy is 32 and a very capable woman. She is one of the best athletic trainers there is, with a higher degree than most men in her profession. And she has snagged her dream job. She loves baseball passionately, and now she has been hired as the head athletic trainer for the San Francisco Felons baseball team. She was allowed to hire her own assistant, and she chose her good (gay) friend Jasper. They were fun together.
Emmy does have a boyfriend, but it did not take a genius to register that that relationship was doomed before the book even started. A long distance relationship between two people who both value their career more, will never work. They just did not miss each other enough for it to be real love. And when Emmy literally falls over Tucker Lloyd and his best friend Alex Ross, the team’s catcher, she was done for.
But Emmy does not let her feelings get in the way of her sense of honor, and her professionalism, and I totally admire her for that. She doesn’t want a relationship with somebody she has to work with daily, and I do understand that. And of course, she was officially still with Simon.
And then there is the hero, Tucker Lloyd, 36 year old and just recovered from a major elbow surgery. His most important body part as he is the team’s star pitcher. He is afraid he won’t be as good as he used to be, and that he is getting too old for the sport. Newer team members are recruited right out of college, as he was. But he is determined that this will be a great year for him and the team, and he is not ready to be cast aside.
So what he does not need, is a woman he can’t get out of his head. He is very attracted to Emmy, and sure, he does want her in his bed, but he knows she is taken. And she does work wonders with his arm, improving his pitch. So for now he will be friends with her, even though it is not easy to keep at a distance, when all he wants is to kiss her senseless.
What I really liked, is the slow start of the romance part. Emmy and Tucker first become friends, and get to know each other. Attraction turns into love, but they don’t realise that yet. First, Emmy has to end her relationship with Simon, and that takes some more time. But when that has been done, there are some good love scenes between them.
What else did I like? Alex, Tucker’s best friend. He is not the typical athlete, not as tall as the rest of the team and he even has a bit of a paunch. And he is a bit of a lecher, but he is a good man. Jasper, Emmy’s friend and assistant. I really like their friendship, and how Jasper can tease Emmy. He is gay, and they have been competing for men in the past. He makes for some fun scenes. He is also good and dedicated in/to his job.
The other team members are not really fleshed out, the book does focus on Tucker, and a bit on Alex.
So bottom line? I still hate sports. I am totally not interested in learning about baseball. BUT. Sierra Dean really made me anxious about the result of a baseball game in this book! She wrote about it in such a manner, I had to know the outcome of the match. My boyfriend was talking to me, and I totally shut him out. I was completely focused on the pages of my ebook.
Conclusion: Sierra Dean is an awesome writer, who can make me enjoy things I normally hate or strongly dislike. I love her writing style, her characters, and I don’t really care about the genre. Be it paranormal or sports romance, I will keep reading her books.
9 stars.
Full review on my blog, www.boeklogboek.blogspot.com
If you do like baseball, and you like reading romance novels, this book will be like heaven to you. It is very big on the baseball things. From the start of the training season, to the games and everything that is necessary to have a functioning team.
So, what exactly did I like about this one? For starters, the heroine. Emmy is 32 and a very capable woman. She is one of the best athletic trainers there is, with a higher degree than most men in her profession. And she has snagged her dream job. She loves baseball passionately, and now she has been hired as the head athletic trainer for the San Francisco Felons baseball team. She was allowed to hire her own assistant, and she chose her good (gay) friend Jasper. They were fun together.
Emmy does have a boyfriend, but it did not take a genius to register that that relationship was doomed before the book even started. A long distance relationship between two people who both value their career more, will never work. They just did not miss each other enough for it to be real love. And when Emmy literally falls over Tucker Lloyd and his best friend Alex Ross, the team’s catcher, she was done for.
But Emmy does not let her feelings get in the way of her sense of honor, and her professionalism, and I totally admire her for that. She doesn’t want a relationship with somebody she has to work with daily, and I do understand that. And of course, she was officially still with Simon.
And then there is the hero, Tucker Lloyd, 36 year old and just recovered from a major elbow surgery. His most important body part as he is the team’s star pitcher. He is afraid he won’t be as good as he used to be, and that he is getting too old for the sport. Newer team members are recruited right out of college, as he was. But he is determined that this will be a great year for him and the team, and he is not ready to be cast aside.
So what he does not need, is a woman he can’t get out of his head. He is very attracted to Emmy, and sure, he does want her in his bed, but he knows she is taken. And she does work wonders with his arm, improving his pitch. So for now he will be friends with her, even though it is not easy to keep at a distance, when all he wants is to kiss her senseless.
What I really liked, is the slow start of the romance part. Emmy and Tucker first become friends, and get to know each other. Attraction turns into love, but they don’t realise that yet. First, Emmy has to end her relationship with Simon, and that takes some more time. But when that has been done, there are some good love scenes between them.
What else did I like? Alex, Tucker’s best friend. He is not the typical athlete, not as tall as the rest of the team and he even has a bit of a paunch. And he is a bit of a lecher, but he is a good man. Jasper, Emmy’s friend and assistant. I really like their friendship, and how Jasper can tease Emmy. He is gay, and they have been competing for men in the past. He makes for some fun scenes. He is also good and dedicated in/to his job.
The other team members are not really fleshed out, the book does focus on Tucker, and a bit on Alex.
So bottom line? I still hate sports. I am totally not interested in learning about baseball. BUT. Sierra Dean really made me anxious about the result of a baseball game in this book! She wrote about it in such a manner, I had to know the outcome of the match. My boyfriend was talking to me, and I totally shut him out. I was completely focused on the pages of my ebook.
Conclusion: Sierra Dean is an awesome writer, who can make me enjoy things I normally hate or strongly dislike. I love her writing style, her characters, and I don’t really care about the genre. Be it paranormal or sports romance, I will keep reading her books.
9 stars.
© 2013 Reviews by Aurian
Full review on my blog, www.boeklogboek.blogspot.com
August 21, 2013
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I never had the opportunity to read a novel about baseball, but as the author was none other than Sierra Dean, I had to try it! Having never been disappointed by her books, I was convinced it would be the same with this one too! And I am not mistaken, it was again a very good novel.
Baseball is not very developed in France and yet it is true that it is a very interesting sport. We can follow here Emmy, this young woman, daughter of a great player, who has been hired as a coach. This is not an easy job as few women get to have a job like this, and she hopes to prove to them that she is the best. However, she does not expect to fall for the star of the team, Lloyd Tucker. But succumbing would not be a good thing, whether for work or even for her actually boyfriend.
I really enjoyed getting to know this heroine. She is strong and tries to show everyone that her work is just as well as one of a man. And yet be surrounded by all the finest men is not easy, especially when one of them is Lloyd Tucker. This man has something that attracts her and I must say that the feeling is mutual. I enjoyed seeing them evolve around one another. Tucker tries to make her succumb and Emmy tries to keep her distance up, something that is however very difficult. This is a pretty romance, and we can appreciate the evolution of everyone’s feelings throughout the story. A cute couple in a very interesting environment to explore. I’m really curious to see what Sierra Dean reserves us for further novels and if we still have the opportunity to meet these two characters. But I hope in any case that we’ll discover more about Alex, the best friend of our star, present throughout the novel.
A very cute romance and we can read quickly!
My English review
I never had the opportunity to read a novel about baseball, but as the author was none other than Sierra Dean, I had to try it! Having never been disappointed by her books, I was convinced it would be the same with this one too! And I am not mistaken, it was again a very good novel.
Baseball is not very developed in France and yet it is true that it is a very interesting sport. We can follow here Emmy, this young woman, daughter of a great player, who has been hired as a coach. This is not an easy job as few women get to have a job like this, and she hopes to prove to them that she is the best. However, she does not expect to fall for the star of the team, Lloyd Tucker. But succumbing would not be a good thing, whether for work or even for her actually boyfriend.
I really enjoyed getting to know this heroine. She is strong and tries to show everyone that her work is just as well as one of a man. And yet be surrounded by all the finest men is not easy, especially when one of them is Lloyd Tucker. This man has something that attracts her and I must say that the feeling is mutual. I enjoyed seeing them evolve around one another. Tucker tries to make her succumb and Emmy tries to keep her distance up, something that is however very difficult. This is a pretty romance, and we can appreciate the evolution of everyone’s feelings throughout the story. A cute couple in a very interesting environment to explore. I’m really curious to see what Sierra Dean reserves us for further novels and if we still have the opportunity to meet these two characters. But I hope in any case that we’ll discover more about Alex, the best friend of our star, present throughout the novel.
A very cute romance and we can read quickly!
August 7, 2013
Pitch Perfect is the first book in the new Boys of Summer series by Sierra Dean. This is the first book I have read of hers and it won’t be the last. Ms. Dean has a writing style that captures the characters chemistry perfectly and lets the story consume your heart.
Emmy’s fought hard to achieve her dream job in a male oriented position. She knows she is going to have to go above and beyond normal standards to prove she is the best at what she does.
Tucker is stepping back up to the plate after an injury benched him last season. He finds himself having to prove to the GM that he is worth keeping around. This is a new position for him. He has been the team star for years and isn’t ready to have his career end yet.
Tucker and Emmy need a year with no distractions. They both need to focus solely on what is at stake. However, with these two working so close together and their attraction for each other igniting, they have no chance at keeping a strictly professional relationship.
I know this plot may sound similar to some, especially if you read many sports themed romance books, but I promise this one offers a unique and fresh storyline. It is not a book driven by drama and angst. There really isn’t even the typical conflict/resolve scenario. It’s a heartwarming, beautiful, passionate love story that follows through an entire baseball season. It’s clearly written by a true fan who not only knows how to write about a great sport, but succeeded to entwine a great romance into the mix. If you are looking for a lighthearted, funny, extremely sexy story grab this. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Review also posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
Emmy’s fought hard to achieve her dream job in a male oriented position. She knows she is going to have to go above and beyond normal standards to prove she is the best at what she does.
Tucker is stepping back up to the plate after an injury benched him last season. He finds himself having to prove to the GM that he is worth keeping around. This is a new position for him. He has been the team star for years and isn’t ready to have his career end yet.
Tucker and Emmy need a year with no distractions. They both need to focus solely on what is at stake. However, with these two working so close together and their attraction for each other igniting, they have no chance at keeping a strictly professional relationship.
I know this plot may sound similar to some, especially if you read many sports themed romance books, but I promise this one offers a unique and fresh storyline. It is not a book driven by drama and angst. There really isn’t even the typical conflict/resolve scenario. It’s a heartwarming, beautiful, passionate love story that follows through an entire baseball season. It’s clearly written by a true fan who not only knows how to write about a great sport, but succeeded to entwine a great romance into the mix. If you are looking for a lighthearted, funny, extremely sexy story grab this. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Review also posted here: http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
March 9, 2013
Looove this book, loooove it! Another great book by Sierra Dean.
Full review to come closer to release date.
Full review to come closer to release date.
December 28, 2022
Emmy a toujours baigné dans l’univers du baseball, et aujourd’hui, elle a obtenu le poste de ses rêves : rééducatrice sportive pour l’équipe des Felons de San Francisco ! Sauf que son premier jour commence mal, avant même d’être présentée, elle manque de rentrer dans deux membres de l’équipe, dont le célèbre lanceur Tucker Lloyd ! Quand celui-ci découvre qu’elle va travailler avec lui, il n’en revient pas. Son charme fou l’attire, même s’il doit se concentrer sur son jeu : sa carrière se rapproche de la fin, mais il doit tout faire pour rester dans le jeu. Avec autant d’enjeux, peuvent-ils risquer de se rapprocher et de gâcher leurs chances dans leurs vies professionnelles ? Et si les sentiments naissaient sans qu’ils les contrôlent ?
J’ai plongé sans hésitation dans cette histoire ! Je crois n’avoir lu que très rarement de livres en rapport avec le baseball et j’ai vraiment adoré découvrir un peu plus ce sport, être plongé dans l’ambiance de l’équipe, voir le travail qu’ils font, etc. L’auteure a parfaitement retranscrit ce côté du récit, j’étais à fond en mode supportrice ! La plume est fluide, l’histoire plutôt douce, j’ai eu une ou deux petites surprises que je n’attendais pas. Le scénario reste un peu basique, mais le décor et l’ensemble donnent un plus à tout ça, ce qui m’a conquise. J’ai adoré comment l’histoire se déroule lentement, la relation prend son temps. J’ai trouvé la fin un peu trop rapide en comparaison !
Emmy est une femme de 32 ans, accomplie, qui fait un travail qu’elle aime et pour lequel elle est douée. Aujourd’hui, elle a l’opportunité dont elle rêvait : gérer l’équipe de rééducation qui s’occupe des membres des Felon de San Francisco. J’ai beaucoup aimé que son travail soit vraiment montré, on ne fait pas que donner un métier et le survoler, et j’ai adoré le découvrir ! Emmy, elle, m’a énormément plu. C’est une femme confiante, elle veut prouver qu’elle mérite son job, qui est habituellement occupé par des hommes. Elle n’est pas particulièrement féministe, mais elle pense que tout le monde devrait faire ce dont il rêve, homme ou femme !
Tucker, lui, m’a touché aussi. Lui qui se remet d’une blessure qui aurait pu détruire sa carrière, il fait tout pour revenir au top de sa forme et garder sa place dans cette équipe qui l’a suivie une partie de sa vie. À 36 ans, il se rapproche dangereusement de la retraite dans le baseball, et il est prêt à tout pour la finir chez les félons, où tout a commencé. C’est un homme passionné par son travail, qui est bien plus que ça : c’est sa passion, sa raison de vivre. Il a de nombreux doutes, de nombreuses peurs concernant son avenir dans l’équipe, et il m’a touché par ce côté fragile quand il pense à l’avenir. Cet homme n’a pas laissé la célébrité lui monter à la tête. Il est drôle, attachant, pas du tout du genre à se croire supérieur, prêt à aider les autres, bref, il est génial !
Pour les personnages secondaires, la plupart restent vraiment en second plan. Malgré ça, j’ai adoré Alex, le meilleur ami de Tucker, il est génial, un véritable soutien et un ami en or !
En conclusion, c’est une belle lecture même si la fin est un peu rapide à mon goût ! Les personnages sont super, l’univers du baseball parfaitement retransmit, j’ai adoré plonger dans cette romance touchante et belle, avec des personnages qui ont des rêves et des passions qu’ils nous transmettent par leurs mots !
J’ai plongé sans hésitation dans cette histoire ! Je crois n’avoir lu que très rarement de livres en rapport avec le baseball et j’ai vraiment adoré découvrir un peu plus ce sport, être plongé dans l’ambiance de l’équipe, voir le travail qu’ils font, etc. L’auteure a parfaitement retranscrit ce côté du récit, j’étais à fond en mode supportrice ! La plume est fluide, l’histoire plutôt douce, j’ai eu une ou deux petites surprises que je n’attendais pas. Le scénario reste un peu basique, mais le décor et l’ensemble donnent un plus à tout ça, ce qui m’a conquise. J’ai adoré comment l’histoire se déroule lentement, la relation prend son temps. J’ai trouvé la fin un peu trop rapide en comparaison !
Emmy est une femme de 32 ans, accomplie, qui fait un travail qu’elle aime et pour lequel elle est douée. Aujourd’hui, elle a l’opportunité dont elle rêvait : gérer l’équipe de rééducation qui s’occupe des membres des Felon de San Francisco. J’ai beaucoup aimé que son travail soit vraiment montré, on ne fait pas que donner un métier et le survoler, et j’ai adoré le découvrir ! Emmy, elle, m’a énormément plu. C’est une femme confiante, elle veut prouver qu’elle mérite son job, qui est habituellement occupé par des hommes. Elle n’est pas particulièrement féministe, mais elle pense que tout le monde devrait faire ce dont il rêve, homme ou femme !
Tucker, lui, m’a touché aussi. Lui qui se remet d’une blessure qui aurait pu détruire sa carrière, il fait tout pour revenir au top de sa forme et garder sa place dans cette équipe qui l’a suivie une partie de sa vie. À 36 ans, il se rapproche dangereusement de la retraite dans le baseball, et il est prêt à tout pour la finir chez les félons, où tout a commencé. C’est un homme passionné par son travail, qui est bien plus que ça : c’est sa passion, sa raison de vivre. Il a de nombreux doutes, de nombreuses peurs concernant son avenir dans l’équipe, et il m’a touché par ce côté fragile quand il pense à l’avenir. Cet homme n’a pas laissé la célébrité lui monter à la tête. Il est drôle, attachant, pas du tout du genre à se croire supérieur, prêt à aider les autres, bref, il est génial !
Pour les personnages secondaires, la plupart restent vraiment en second plan. Malgré ça, j’ai adoré Alex, le meilleur ami de Tucker, il est génial, un véritable soutien et un ami en or !
En conclusion, c’est une belle lecture même si la fin est un peu rapide à mon goût ! Les personnages sont super, l’univers du baseball parfaitement retransmit, j’ai adoré plonger dans cette romance touchante et belle, avec des personnages qui ont des rêves et des passions qu’ils nous transmettent par leurs mots !
August 28, 2022
Chronique de Diana :
https://followthereader2016.wordpress...
Quand on parle de romance avec des sportifs, je réponds présente. Et pour vous mettre dans l’ambiance, c’est très sympa et j’ai hâte de découvrir un nouveau joueur de l’équipe des Felons.
Tucker est un athlète performant qui revient de loin après une blessure au bras, autant vous dire que quand vous êtes le lanceur vedette d’une équipe de baseball, c’est un peu stressant. Après une année de rééducation, il est prêt à retourner dans le champs et a retrouver sa place d’honneur. Mais quand on a 36 ans, on sait aussi que les nouveaux ne vous feront pas de cadeaux et que les propriétaires des équipes vous gardent à l’œil. Il sera encadré au niveau médical et notamment par Emmy la nouvelle préparatrice.
Emmy débarque de Chicago, sait qu’elle va évoluer dans un monde typiquement masculin et qu’elle devra se faire sa place et être respectée, sa rencontre dès moins percutante avec Tucker le lanceur vedette grandement lui compliquer la tâche. C’est une héroïne déterminée et attachante mais elle ne sait pas encore que notre sportif est aussi très patient et qu’il ne va pas abandonner.
C’est une lecture facile et même si c’est prévisible dans l’avancement, on passe un bon moment et la tension entre eux est très appréciable. J’ai aimé que l’auteure ne fasse pas dans le graveleux pour montrer l’excès de testostérone dans le sport de haut niveau. Il y a certes quelques mentions mais ça reste toujours bien transcrit et pas grossier.
Au niveau des personnages secondaires, il y a vraiment du potentiel et j’en ai déjà remarqué 2 que j’aimerais mieux découvrir. C’est une série en 3 tomes et je pense que mes voeux seront exhaussés par la suite.
C’est un récit assez court mais qui prend le temps de nous faire découvrir l’univers, les personnages et l’évolution de leur romance. On passe du bon temps et si vous ne connaissez pas le baseball c’est une parfaite introduction.
Je connaissais déjà la plume de l’auteure et de ce côté là c’est vraiment bien fait. Je ne vois pas comment on pourrait ne pas apprécier surtout que la traduction est vraiment impeccable.
https://followthereader2016.wordpress...
Quand on parle de romance avec des sportifs, je réponds présente. Et pour vous mettre dans l’ambiance, c’est très sympa et j’ai hâte de découvrir un nouveau joueur de l’équipe des Felons.
Tucker est un athlète performant qui revient de loin après une blessure au bras, autant vous dire que quand vous êtes le lanceur vedette d’une équipe de baseball, c’est un peu stressant. Après une année de rééducation, il est prêt à retourner dans le champs et a retrouver sa place d’honneur. Mais quand on a 36 ans, on sait aussi que les nouveaux ne vous feront pas de cadeaux et que les propriétaires des équipes vous gardent à l’œil. Il sera encadré au niveau médical et notamment par Emmy la nouvelle préparatrice.
Emmy débarque de Chicago, sait qu’elle va évoluer dans un monde typiquement masculin et qu’elle devra se faire sa place et être respectée, sa rencontre dès moins percutante avec Tucker le lanceur vedette grandement lui compliquer la tâche. C’est une héroïne déterminée et attachante mais elle ne sait pas encore que notre sportif est aussi très patient et qu’il ne va pas abandonner.
C’est une lecture facile et même si c’est prévisible dans l’avancement, on passe un bon moment et la tension entre eux est très appréciable. J’ai aimé que l’auteure ne fasse pas dans le graveleux pour montrer l’excès de testostérone dans le sport de haut niveau. Il y a certes quelques mentions mais ça reste toujours bien transcrit et pas grossier.
Au niveau des personnages secondaires, il y a vraiment du potentiel et j’en ai déjà remarqué 2 que j’aimerais mieux découvrir. C’est une série en 3 tomes et je pense que mes voeux seront exhaussés par la suite.
C’est un récit assez court mais qui prend le temps de nous faire découvrir l’univers, les personnages et l’évolution de leur romance. On passe du bon temps et si vous ne connaissez pas le baseball c’est une parfaite introduction.
Je connaissais déjà la plume de l’auteure et de ce côté là c’est vraiment bien fait. Je ne vois pas comment on pourrait ne pas apprécier surtout que la traduction est vraiment impeccable.
June 16, 2023
Ugh I don’t normally hate cheating if it’s written right, but damn I hated this. Simon was such a sweet guy, even though they lacked so called passion, she never should’ve cheated as many times as she did. She should’ve just broken up with him. It felt like an afterthought to make the boyfriend appear like he was cheating on the fmc to justify what she did. Just wasn’t believable and detracted from the story.
The characters were forgettable, didn’t rally believe their chemistry or love.
There was this random comment on feminism but it was dropped so it felt out of place and half hearted.
2/5 🌶️
The characters were forgettable, didn’t rally believe their chemistry or love.
There was this random comment on feminism but it was dropped so it felt out of place and half hearted.
2/5 🌶️
January 15, 2024
This was the first book that I have read by Sierra Dean and it won't be the last. I really liked this book. I love reading romance books that are centered around sports. You could obviously tell that the author loves the game of baseball. The chemistry between Tucker and Emmy was hot. You will not be disappointed if you read this book.
December 13, 2019
DNF 15%
Nah. Not something for me.
Nah. Not something for me.
May 14, 2021
I actually really like this story, even with the extended game scenes. The H tries to blow it but the h is rock solid and keeps him on his toes.
May 25, 2021
I love baseball. I love romance. It was a wonderful mix of both. Super cute.
February 9, 2022
A great book, the characters had excellent chemistry.
July 28, 2022
She's in a long distance relationship with no the MMC and she's still in that relationship at the 50% mark. I'm not rooting for her.
July 26, 2023
This is the closest I will ever become to being interested in sports of any kind.
November 1, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, and I'm not a baseball fan, the sport isn't played in my country, but everyone watches American TV, so I am aware of how the game is played, and Sierra's description of the in and outs of the sport was quite insightful. The story as a whole, I really liked.
August 4, 2013
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/08/06/...
I hate admitting this, but my love of Dean’s Secret McQueen series had faded over the last few books, and I was reluctant to read anymore of that series. But while talking one night on Twitter she told me she had a contemporary sports romance coming out and I was so excited at the opportunity to read it. And I’m so glad I did!
Emmy’s dream job has always been to work as the head athletic trainer for a major league baseball team. Now that her dream has come true, she knows that baseball season is going to be full of sprains and aches and a grueling travel schedule. The last thing she has in mind is a romance that could potentially ruin everything she’s worked for.
Tucker is nowhere near old, but in baseball years he is getting up there. Coming back from a season off and major surgery has him scared, and he fears being just another washup. But with Emmy pushing him to be better, and the threat of leaving the only team he’s ever played for and loved, Tucker will take Emmy’s advice and do everything he can to succeed. The only problem is, he’s found that Emmy is his new lucky charm, and he doesn’t want to let her go. Ever.
This book had such a wonderful slow building romance. At the start of this book, Emmy is new to town and still has her boyfriend in Chicago. Although the attraction to Tucker is off the charts, Emmy does her best to push Tucker away at every chance. They start with a strong sexual attraction, and develop a wonderful friendship over time. It isn’t until at least halfway through the book that Emmy breaks up with her Chicago boyfriend and admits to herself she wants to take the chance with Tucker. That slow building romance was so well done, and I adored it.
I loved the way Dean portrayed Emmy’s character, especially once she was featured in the paper without her knowledge or approval. I loved that she hated the fact that a spotlight had been shown on her for being the first female head trainer in the MLB, and how upset she was that people would now possibly question her abilities. I thought it showed not only a strong strength of character, but also some vulnerability to her character that shined bright.
Tucker was wonderful as well. Despite the fact that Emmy was constantly pushing him away, he still did everything he could to support her. He was a friend when she needed, a support system, and when the time came, a lover. Although he was struggling with his own issues, namely getting his game back, he was also quick to focus one hundred percent on Emmy, and make sure that she was well taken care of.
The secondary characters, especially the guys on the Felon’s baseball team, were all fabulous. I loved how different and unique they all were, how large their personalities were, and how well they meshed together. I can’t wait to dive into the next book and read about Alex, Tucker, and the rest of the guys.
I am not a huge fan of baseball. While I love going to a live game and getting a cold beer and a hot pretzel, I’m also not a die-hard for the sport. That being said, I thought Dean did an incredible job of making the sport come alive. So many times in sports romance books the plot takes place off the field for the vast majority of the story. With Dean, the sport itself was just as integral to the book as the romance. The day to day grind, practice, working out, and the energy of the game itself was just as strong of a character as Tucker, Emmy and the rest.
All in all I found this book to reaffirm my love of Sierra Dean. The romance was exactly what I was looking for, and the added bonus of the strong friendship between Emmy and Tucker was wonderful. The baseball way of life and the players within it pulled me into their world and I was sad to see it go. I’m anxious to read more about the Felons.
I give Pitch Perfect a B.
I hate admitting this, but my love of Dean’s Secret McQueen series had faded over the last few books, and I was reluctant to read anymore of that series. But while talking one night on Twitter she told me she had a contemporary sports romance coming out and I was so excited at the opportunity to read it. And I’m so glad I did!
Emmy’s dream job has always been to work as the head athletic trainer for a major league baseball team. Now that her dream has come true, she knows that baseball season is going to be full of sprains and aches and a grueling travel schedule. The last thing she has in mind is a romance that could potentially ruin everything she’s worked for.
Tucker is nowhere near old, but in baseball years he is getting up there. Coming back from a season off and major surgery has him scared, and he fears being just another washup. But with Emmy pushing him to be better, and the threat of leaving the only team he’s ever played for and loved, Tucker will take Emmy’s advice and do everything he can to succeed. The only problem is, he’s found that Emmy is his new lucky charm, and he doesn’t want to let her go. Ever.
This book had such a wonderful slow building romance. At the start of this book, Emmy is new to town and still has her boyfriend in Chicago. Although the attraction to Tucker is off the charts, Emmy does her best to push Tucker away at every chance. They start with a strong sexual attraction, and develop a wonderful friendship over time. It isn’t until at least halfway through the book that Emmy breaks up with her Chicago boyfriend and admits to herself she wants to take the chance with Tucker. That slow building romance was so well done, and I adored it.
I loved the way Dean portrayed Emmy’s character, especially once she was featured in the paper without her knowledge or approval. I loved that she hated the fact that a spotlight had been shown on her for being the first female head trainer in the MLB, and how upset she was that people would now possibly question her abilities. I thought it showed not only a strong strength of character, but also some vulnerability to her character that shined bright.
Tucker was wonderful as well. Despite the fact that Emmy was constantly pushing him away, he still did everything he could to support her. He was a friend when she needed, a support system, and when the time came, a lover. Although he was struggling with his own issues, namely getting his game back, he was also quick to focus one hundred percent on Emmy, and make sure that she was well taken care of.
The secondary characters, especially the guys on the Felon’s baseball team, were all fabulous. I loved how different and unique they all were, how large their personalities were, and how well they meshed together. I can’t wait to dive into the next book and read about Alex, Tucker, and the rest of the guys.
I am not a huge fan of baseball. While I love going to a live game and getting a cold beer and a hot pretzel, I’m also not a die-hard for the sport. That being said, I thought Dean did an incredible job of making the sport come alive. So many times in sports romance books the plot takes place off the field for the vast majority of the story. With Dean, the sport itself was just as integral to the book as the romance. The day to day grind, practice, working out, and the energy of the game itself was just as strong of a character as Tucker, Emmy and the rest.
All in all I found this book to reaffirm my love of Sierra Dean. The romance was exactly what I was looking for, and the added bonus of the strong friendship between Emmy and Tucker was wonderful. The baseball way of life and the players within it pulled me into their world and I was sad to see it go. I’m anxious to read more about the Felons.
I give Pitch Perfect a B.
August 7, 2013
Originally posted at http://smexybooks.com/2013/08/review-...
A die hard baseball fan and athletic trainer, Emmett (Emmy) Kasper has more than paid her dues, rising her way through the ranks of the Chicago Cubs franchise until she couldn’t go any further. When she is offered the position of head athletic trainer for the San Francisco Felons, she jumps at the chance; packing up and leaving Chicago without a second glance.
Tucker Lloyd, star pitcher for the Felons, is returning to the active roster after a year off for elbow surgery. Though a talented pitcher, at 36 years old he’s considered used goods in the world of baseball. Baseball is Tucker’s life and he just wants this one chance to prove he still has what it takes to be a winner.
As Tucker and Emmy’s worlds collide, neither of them expect the intense chemistry that erupts between them. Emmy tries to keep things professional as she has a long term boyfriend and she feels business and pleasure shouldn’t mix. When Emmy’s boyfriend, a sports columnist, writes an article about Emmy that makes it sound as if she got her breaks in the business because of her connections and the fact she is woman, Emmy knows they are done for and breaks it off with him. This gives Tucker the green light to act on his feelings for Emmy and soon they embark on a hot steamy relationship.
When Tucker’s dreams of pitching take a dismal turn, can he and Emmy weather the storm or will they have to put their passion on hold to make their individual dreams come true?
Pitch Perfect is the first in Sierra Dean’s Boys Of Summer series. A sport dominated romance contemporary that balances the ins and outs of baseball with a light hearted romance. With a personable cast of characters and an entertaining informative look at baseball from Spring Training to the Division playoffs, this book should have swept me off my feet. A hot male lead, intelligent heroine, realistic plot lines, and some smexy times everywhere in between should have engaged me from the start and not let go. Unfortunately, I found myself bored less than halfway through. This book had no real conflict or emotional turmoil. From the very beginning to the end, everyone and everything is nice and polite. From Tucker accepting Emmy’s edict to just be friends, to Emmy’s literally catching her boyfriend Simon with another woman. Everything resolves with little fuss. The plot elements are predictable as is the romance. The individual elements were good but the execution failed for me.
The romance is slow to start but it’s expected when the details of Emmy’s life are revealed. I did like her and Tucker became friends first but I would have enjoyed seeing that evolution myself. It becomes a case of tell not show. Once they are free to act on their feelings, the chemistry heats up and we are privy to some very nice and detail oriented sex scenes.
What saved this book for me were the characters and the baseball story line. I liked Emmy and Tucker individually. Both are strong, intelligent, witty people who weren’t into playing games. They know what they want, both personally and professionally and have worked hard to get where they are. They are likable protagonists. I found the interaction and dialogue between the players hilarious. and the minute details of baseball informative and interesting. Sierra doesn’t overwhelm us with textbook style narrative. Her love of baseball is evident.
While I foresee myself sticking with her paranormal series, as it offers more action and depth in my opinion, I do feel fans of sports romance contemporary will enjoy Dean’s newest venture.
Overall Rating: C
A die hard baseball fan and athletic trainer, Emmett (Emmy) Kasper has more than paid her dues, rising her way through the ranks of the Chicago Cubs franchise until she couldn’t go any further. When she is offered the position of head athletic trainer for the San Francisco Felons, she jumps at the chance; packing up and leaving Chicago without a second glance.
Tucker Lloyd, star pitcher for the Felons, is returning to the active roster after a year off for elbow surgery. Though a talented pitcher, at 36 years old he’s considered used goods in the world of baseball. Baseball is Tucker’s life and he just wants this one chance to prove he still has what it takes to be a winner.
As Tucker and Emmy’s worlds collide, neither of them expect the intense chemistry that erupts between them. Emmy tries to keep things professional as she has a long term boyfriend and she feels business and pleasure shouldn’t mix. When Emmy’s boyfriend, a sports columnist, writes an article about Emmy that makes it sound as if she got her breaks in the business because of her connections and the fact she is woman, Emmy knows they are done for and breaks it off with him. This gives Tucker the green light to act on his feelings for Emmy and soon they embark on a hot steamy relationship.
When Tucker’s dreams of pitching take a dismal turn, can he and Emmy weather the storm or will they have to put their passion on hold to make their individual dreams come true?
Pitch Perfect is the first in Sierra Dean’s Boys Of Summer series. A sport dominated romance contemporary that balances the ins and outs of baseball with a light hearted romance. With a personable cast of characters and an entertaining informative look at baseball from Spring Training to the Division playoffs, this book should have swept me off my feet. A hot male lead, intelligent heroine, realistic plot lines, and some smexy times everywhere in between should have engaged me from the start and not let go. Unfortunately, I found myself bored less than halfway through. This book had no real conflict or emotional turmoil. From the very beginning to the end, everyone and everything is nice and polite. From Tucker accepting Emmy’s edict to just be friends, to Emmy’s literally catching her boyfriend Simon with another woman. Everything resolves with little fuss. The plot elements are predictable as is the romance. The individual elements were good but the execution failed for me.
The romance is slow to start but it’s expected when the details of Emmy’s life are revealed. I did like her and Tucker became friends first but I would have enjoyed seeing that evolution myself. It becomes a case of tell not show. Once they are free to act on their feelings, the chemistry heats up and we are privy to some very nice and detail oriented sex scenes.
What saved this book for me were the characters and the baseball story line. I liked Emmy and Tucker individually. Both are strong, intelligent, witty people who weren’t into playing games. They know what they want, both personally and professionally and have worked hard to get where they are. They are likable protagonists. I found the interaction and dialogue between the players hilarious. and the minute details of baseball informative and interesting. Sierra doesn’t overwhelm us with textbook style narrative. Her love of baseball is evident.
While I foresee myself sticking with her paranormal series, as it offers more action and depth in my opinion, I do feel fans of sports romance contemporary will enjoy Dean’s newest venture.
Overall Rating: C
August 5, 2013
I have to thank Sierra right off the bat for giving me the chance to read this book as I adored the chemistry you feel from the beginning between the main pair. You also get some lovely secondary characters that I am beyond ready for their stories (hint hint). Add to this the fact that she captures a loyal Cubs fan perfectly and man I was in love.
Emmy is ecstatic to finally be a head athletic trainer. She's always wanted it and has worked very hard to get where she is in a world dominated by men. She's a bit distracted and plows into two baseball players as she turns a corner one of which is her team's star pitcher. As she starts working with him on his rehab she gets a complication she doesn't want but can't avoid - she's attracted to him on both a physical level and more importantly an emotional one. She's involved with someone but as she and Tucker spend more time together the lines keep getting blurred. Thankfully both of them really do work hard to keep the relationship on the up and up while she is still "technically" with someone else and when she finally lets the hammer fall on the old relationship all bets are off. I liked that she didn't want to trade on her dad's fame and that she really did understand that it was what people would try to focus on in addition to being female. She's smart and very loyal to those around her even if they don't deserve it.
Tucker is at a point in his career where he is wondering if this will be his last year or can his body withstand another year doing the thing he loves. He isn't looking for a relationship but is instantly attracted to Emmy and wants to find out where it could lead. When he finds out she is taken he respects the boundaries while pushing them as much as he can. He knows the relationship she has is a dead one and not truly a happy one but he does respect it even as he develops a friendship with her while making it clear he wouldn't mind it becoming more. I liked how much he was willing to put himself out there for her and man when the relationship was kaput he turned on the heat. He's such a good guy that you want him for yourself. I also appreciated how he took Emmy's professional advice and really used it to help his career continue.
This is a good pairing that you will love watching build up via friendship and flirting to something that will definitely withstand the rigors of MLB and time. Thanks again to Sierra for giving me the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review. I wouldn't complain if anything else in this series "accidentally" ended up in my mailbox. Again... HINT HINT! :-)
Emmy is ecstatic to finally be a head athletic trainer. She's always wanted it and has worked very hard to get where she is in a world dominated by men. She's a bit distracted and plows into two baseball players as she turns a corner one of which is her team's star pitcher. As she starts working with him on his rehab she gets a complication she doesn't want but can't avoid - she's attracted to him on both a physical level and more importantly an emotional one. She's involved with someone but as she and Tucker spend more time together the lines keep getting blurred. Thankfully both of them really do work hard to keep the relationship on the up and up while she is still "technically" with someone else and when she finally lets the hammer fall on the old relationship all bets are off. I liked that she didn't want to trade on her dad's fame and that she really did understand that it was what people would try to focus on in addition to being female. She's smart and very loyal to those around her even if they don't deserve it.
Tucker is at a point in his career where he is wondering if this will be his last year or can his body withstand another year doing the thing he loves. He isn't looking for a relationship but is instantly attracted to Emmy and wants to find out where it could lead. When he finds out she is taken he respects the boundaries while pushing them as much as he can. He knows the relationship she has is a dead one and not truly a happy one but he does respect it even as he develops a friendship with her while making it clear he wouldn't mind it becoming more. I liked how much he was willing to put himself out there for her and man when the relationship was kaput he turned on the heat. He's such a good guy that you want him for yourself. I also appreciated how he took Emmy's professional advice and really used it to help his career continue.
This is a good pairing that you will love watching build up via friendship and flirting to something that will definitely withstand the rigors of MLB and time. Thanks again to Sierra for giving me the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review. I wouldn't complain if anything else in this series "accidentally" ended up in my mailbox. Again... HINT HINT! :-)
July 25, 2013
This is the first book is a new baseball themed contemporary series by Sierra Dean. So far we know her from her paranormal Secret McQueen series, which i love. She's taking a crack at baseball this time. Tucker Lloyd is a aging baseball pitcher at 36 years old. He's coming off a surgery and a years worth of therapy getting his arm back in shape. Emmy Kasper is the daughter of a famous baseball player and game announcer and a the new Athletic Trainer for the San Francisco Felons and she's a rare breed in baseball as there are few females in her position. She's tasked with helping Tucker get back on track and become the pitcher he used to be. If he can't get it together he's probably going to be traded off. There first time seeing each other is a crash meeting literally when Emmy runs him down almost with her bike and hits the pavement hard. Sparks fly between the two but there are things that should prevent them being together. First Emmy has a boyfriend although it's not much of a relationship these days and two they kind of work together and that's probably another good reason. They decide to try and be friends instead. Emmy struggles with her feeling for Tucker all the while trying to keep a professional distance. She finally realizes that her relationship with boyfriend is over and breaks up with him clearing the way with Tucker. After a night trying to meet Tucker's best friend Alex drink for drink in a bar all the while confessing her feeling for Tucker she wakes up at Tucker's house. Things take off between the two then but will it how will it end? I love the all the characters in this story. Tucker and Emmy are awesome. These aren't young 20 somethings with both being in their 30's. They've lived some life and that's really refreshing. Alex, Tucker's best friend is fun and flirty with something a little dark inside and will make for a great main character in the next book. I felt like i knew these people by the end of the book. Like they could be someone you might hang out with. The dialogue lends to that feeling. I'm not big into baseball. I watch it occasionally especially if the Detroit Tigers are doing something big but i don't feel you need to be a crazy fan to enjoy the baseball talk in this book. It's fairly easy to understand for any non baseball person too. Sierra Dean rocked this story. Her writing brilliance comes through with this sweet, sexy contemporary romance.
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