The Backwards K

by J.J. Hebert

Baseball was the only thing Jet Brine was ever good at. Well, baseball and slot machines. Except when his moment came, bottom of the ninth, game seven of the World Series, Jet struck out without swinging. Now, years later, he’s stuck in a cubicle, haunted by the ghosts of a marriage cut short, and dragging around the remains of his baseball career in a beat-up duffle bag. Then he meets Linda and it seems things might be turning around at last. But old habits die hard and old fears fuel new failures. After a string of tough losses, a solemn promise may be the only thing that can convince Jet to step up and swing away one more time. The Backwards K is the latest inspirational novel from bestselling author J.J. Hebert. Featuring relatable characters facing heartfelt struggles, The Backwards K is for anyone who believes winning begins with having the courage to take a swing. PRAISE FOR THE BACKWARDS K “J.J. Hebert’s inspirational sports-themed novel, The Backwards K, follows the efforts of aging baseball great, Jet Brine, as he tries to get past [the] awful defining moment of his baseball career and reclaim his life. Hebert’s story examines the concepts of forgiving oneself for the past and finding the courage to start fresh and new… The Backwards K is an uplifting and inspiring tale that is most highly recommended.” —Readers' Favorite (5 Stars) “The Backwards K was an excellent read which I found wholly entertaining and enjoyable. Author J.J. Hebert is a well-honed storyteller, who did a superb job of creating a narrative that instantly draws the reader into the emotion-ridden world of Jet Brine. This narrative proved to be an engaging, evocative, insightful and inspirational read … Will draw a tear, as well as make you cheer. I enthusiastically recommend this book as it is well worth the read.” —Pacific Book Review (Starred Review) “[Hebert’s] supporting characters come across as particularly credible. More than merely stock players, they feel like real flesh and blood inhabitants of Jet’s world. Hebert keeps his prose straightforward and devoid of lyricism. In addition to sounding like it’s actually coming from the mouth of a real ex-ballplayer, it also enhances intimacy with, and empathy for his protagonist whose continued use of rationalization reveals an individual under the influence of addiction. Jet’s history of lessons learned too late, promises broken too often, and resolve compromised too easily, makes him not just flawed but human. In fact, it is the author’s exploration of the human qualities of transgression, forgiveness, and redemption, that raises this tale above the level of mere sports yarn.” —The US Review of Books

226 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2017

About the author

J. J. Hebert is the bestselling author of eight books, including his acclaimed debut Unconventional and The Backwards K, which, according to Newsweek, is currently in development for film adaptation. His latest bestsellers, both published in 2025, are The Breaking of Time: Chronicles of the Arvynth and The Hands-On Author: Taking Control of Your Book Marketing Journey. A lifelong New England resident, Hebert frequently weaves the region’s landscapes and atmosphere into his storytelling. He is also the award-winning CEO and Founder of MindStir Media, a leading hybrid book publisher. Join his community of over 2 million followers across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) @authorjjhebert.

Reviews

[Lance · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is the chance that every kid who has played whiffle ball in the back yard dreams about: bottom of the ninth inning in game 7 of the World Series, your team trails by one run and the fate of the team rests on your shoulders as you come to the plate.

That chance came true for Jet Brine, the lead character in this terrific story by J.J. Herbert. Unfortunately for Jet, the title of the book describes what happened during that at-bat – he struck out on a called third strike – the backwards K. What happened to Jet’s life after that fateful moment is a continuation of the misfortune of that plate appearance. Jet’s wife dies, his only son blames his father for her death and cuts off all communication with Jet, he sells memorabilia to keep afloat and he still has an addiction to gambling.

When Jet decides to make changes in his life, this is when the story really gets good as the reader will learn the inner turmoil Jet is going through. But Herbert doesn’t stop with his character development with Jet. The reader will also feel the pain that Jet’s wife Janice felt as a baseball wife whose husband chose his career over his family, the pain that Jay Brine felt and the confusion felt by Jet’s current girlfriend Linda. One other important character in the story is Boone, Jet’s sponsor when he decides he needs to do something about his gambling. Jet also discovers that Jay is developing into a fine baseball player himself and goes out to make up for the time lost with his son. The reader will enjoy learning about these characters as the story takes many different twists while Jet addresses his issues.

While the story is fairly short on pages, it is heartily filled with emotional ups and downs, some baseball action and an ending that will leave the reader completely satisfied with having read a great tale of overcoming difficulties and enjoying what one has in life once again.

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[Valery · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Backwards K by J.J. Hebert is an inspirational, heartfelt novel. Baseball is the theme, and we follow the later life of a former baseball great named Jet Brine. Brine continues to re-live his worst moment in baseball ever, when he struck out. He now supports himself by selling his once glorious collectible baseball cards and memorabilia. However, he soon realizes he will run out of money, and must get a real job quick. This is where the story takes a turn for the better, Brine's life is about to change in subtle and not so subtle ways. He learns lessons along the way, and that truly creates the essence of this book where themes like forgiveness, addiction, and redemption figure prominently. Written in the first person you get an authentic feel for Jet, his issues, and how he goes about turning his life around. The supporting characters are also written in such a way that they are relatable and down to earth, providing a substantial and meaningful backdrop to this inspirational story. Highly recommend.

[Shanell Meek · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the ashes we rise

Hey is an ex baseball player who is no stranger to failure. He pretty screws up everything good on his life and has perfected the art of being a loser. Then he meets Linda and she encourages him to become a better person, making this a classic rising from the ashes type of story. I don’t want to give too much away but I do want to say there’s a pretty graphic suicide scene that could be a pretty big trigger for some! Outside of that I found this book to be entertaining.i had a hard time putting it down because the story line is interesting and progresses steadily, which made me happy that it is a reality rly short read. It’s length is perfect for a couple hours at most of getting away from reality. The characters are all well thought out and multidimensional, J.J. Herbert put a lot of energy into them. Overall I would recommend this book, I laughed, cried and couldn’t stop reading from cover to cover!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jet Brine is a retired Red Sox player who lovingly remembers his glory days on the field. He does not like to remember the moment that cost him his career, when he froze and struck out. As the story jumps forward in time, we see Jet years later, downtrodden and barely making a living. As he reflects, sometimes bitterly, on the past, he meets Linda who gives him hope for his future. The only problem is that he needs to learn how to break his old bad habits before he destroys the one good thing to happen to him in a long time.
This story was good. Even though the backdrop is the baseball career and how it shaped Jet, you do not have to be a fan of the sport to enjoy this one. Jets struggle to overcome his past and to not fall back into old habits is something I think we can all relate to. I liked how his relationship with Linda was portrayed, very authentic.

[Carlos Romero · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel hit me personally, it is really emotional and connected with me because I felt I had lived similar things. This book not only talks about sports, but it also goes beyond it, talks about human struggles, how to face frustration, pain, failure, and pressure that are emotions and feelings everyone has felt at least once in their lives. Jet’s internal battle with expectations, setbacks, and identity is what makes this book special. Understanding how he thinks, feels, and interacts throughout the book is like living and experiencing his life firsthand. Also, the way competition is a key characteristic in this book makes you understand how this can affect the mind and psychology of this character, as an analogy of how this can affect someone in real life. This book has touched me and taught me a lot on how to deal with frustration and emotion.

[Camilo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Story

I have to confess that I am a big fan of sports and stories that revolve around them. I love how, in many cases, people from disadvantaged social and economic backgrounds find in sports a motivation not only to move forward, but also to achieve their dreams and help their loved ones achieve theirs.

This book tells a very captivating and enriching story. What caught my attention the most was the overall plot and the way the main character overcomes obstacles on the path toward achieving his dreams. It is an engaging story, easy to read, and it helps the reader clear their mind in a very special way.

The courage and determination shown by the main character are also inspiring, encouraging the reader to reflect and make positive changes in their own life. It is an entertaining and accessible novel that is truly enjoyable.

Highly recommended.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The feeling of desperate despair engulfs Jet Brine, the onetime beloved Sox player, after years of feeling like a failure as a husband, father, and player. He began to think failure was his signature. The only way he felt he could escape was when he was gambling.

After losing all, Jet realized he needed to get a job. The only qualification he has is in the field of baseball, but that is the last place he wants to be seen since most know him as the one that caused the Sox to lose the World Series.

He brings this same poisonous attitude to a new relationship with Linda. He doubts he is worthy to the love and devotion she is willing to give since his deceased wife offered that same quality and he destroyed her love and life with his selfishness.

[Marina Lujan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading The Backwards K was a much more emotional experience than I imagined. J.J. Hebert manages to immerse you completely in the mind of Jet Brine, a broken, weary character filled with regrets, yet profoundly human. The story moves between the past, pain, and small bits of hope that show up when you don’t expect them. Some parts are hard to read because they feel very real, while others quietly make you smile. I think the relationship with Linda also adds warmth.

I think it's a really straightforward tale about making mistakes, accepting them, and then choosing to try again even if you're not sure if it will succeed. I would recommend it to anyone who loves real tales of people being given another chance.

[Lucas · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging novel

“The Backwards K” is an enticing and thought-provoking novel penned by J.J.Herbert. It revolves around the famous baseball player Jet Brine. He was really good at it and has a clear future with that. Unfortunately, his life turned upside down after the end of his marriage and some regrets about his career and life. When Linda appears in his life, everything seems to take a different perspective but the past and his old habits haunt him.
This is an engaging story that tells the harsh moments that some famous sport professionals experience in their lives and the inner struggles they must cope with. It also shows the way they get up after many failures. It’s a teaching story. I liked it and I recommend it.

[Fanny Polchlopek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author is on another level.

It is a work that can hardly be compared to others. It draws us into the world of the characters in a way that very few authors can achieve. The sensations and feelings conveyed are extremely strong and, in many ways, raw. The book is an extensive reflection in itself, a reflection that I think all readers end up making or sharing, as it is an invitation to look back at the past, at better times, at missed opportunities, and at the way we blame ourselves for frustrating things.

Through an exquisite plot, this book covers many aspects of raw, everyday life, some frustrated at not having been a baseball star, others trapped in the daily grind of their ordinary jobs, jobs that become our prison.

One of my favorite authors, I must say.

[The Endless Unread · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot really takes off, and how it is all going to end is totally unpredictable - the urge to keep turning pages increases in line with the pressure on the characters. Within the first few chapters, I just knew I couldn't put it down until I had devoured it's every content. It has been a long time since I have been so gripped by a book.

It is wonderfully written, a real rollercoaster of emotions.

I particularly loved the contrast and metaphors between baseball and real life. The writer has been extremely clever in their writing as it makes the story that much more relatable.

Very highly recommended

[Jimmy Jefferson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story of life through the eyes of a washed up baseball player

The author has put together a great story of life through a would be great baseball player who froze when it counted. As the years as a player drift in the wake of the past, Jet Brine meets a lady in the break room at work who rekindled his desire for life and excitement. This is a great story with and epic journey told by a master word Smith. The characters are well developed and easy to relate to and follow along this journey. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to read, loves baseball, romance, or a good story of life.

[ZebraDebra · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Backwards K may appear to be simply a sports story about an old baseball star. However, the reader will soon notice that this book has far greater depth. This is not just a sports story, but a touching tale about overcoming challenges, letting go of addiction and of forgiving oneself in order to make a new start.

J. J. Herbert is a marvellous writer with a great gift for creating tension. There were many parts of the book where I had to reach for a tissue. At other times, I was inwardly applauding the main character, Jet Brine. Linda and the rest of the book’s characters are all totally convincing. It feels to me like I now know these people. This is a brilliant story.

[Maps R · Rating 5 out of 5]

One more swing to hit life’s home run. This was a fantastic book; it is all heart and full of relatable characters. I really enjoyed reading about Jet Brine and his journey, from being deeply passionate about baseball to navigating adult life. What I liked most is how the author narrates the story; it feels very true to reality, showing how we often leave our passions behind for society. The part about returning to the game was my favorite, and how reconnecting with what he once loved became the turning point. This is a great book, the characters are amazing, and you will find yourself going back to your childhood and maybe reconnecting with those past hobbies.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, author Herbert has done it. This time, he presents us with a moving and captivating story starring Jet Brine, a baseball player who had it all, but just as quickly as it came, it all went. His marriage, his family, his career, everything crumbled due to bad decisions. But when he meets Linda, it seems that things might finally be changing.
This is a touching story, and while it's fiction, it clearly reflects the reality of many celebrities who achieve fame and then don't know what to do with it. It's certainly an inspiring story with great and well-developed characters. A story to believe in again.

[Lisa Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not into baseball at all. This was ARC for me. The first chapter I wasn't sure I was going to be able to get into this book. I was surprised as I went into the second chapter that it was not just baseball but relationships and learning to pick yourself up and move on with life. Jet had a lot of hurt in his life and a lot of life lessons learned . It was a great read.

[Rebecca Stalnaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

an interesting read.

[Denise Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Backwards K written by J. J. Hebert is a very well written, short novel about Jet Brine. The story starts off with Jet’s experience in the World Series playing for the Red Sox. He’s up to bat after one of his team mates ends up striking out without taking a swing! Jet feels the pressure, and blows it. The story then fast forwards to Jet’s life years after his career ended, his marriage done, he finds himself applying to jobs, as his baseball career money has run out. I absolutely loved this book and found Jet’s life fascinating, his struggles and his triumphs. This book is very well written and has moments of heartache as well as joyful. The reader is taken into Jet’s world and feels for him, as his character is very relatable and one that the reader will no doubt be rooting for. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more of J. J. Hebert’s work.