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The Perfect Catch: Based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie
In the small town of Parker Falls, Jessica Parker spends her time serving pie and coming up with ideas to save the failing diner she inherited from her grandfather. A single mom to eight-year-old Wesley, she has enough to keep her busy well into the future. But when her old high school love, Chase Taynor, unexpectedly pops up, Jess finds herself thinking not of the future but of her past with the handsome professional baseball player.
After a few bad pitches leave his dream career in limbo, Chase slides back home to Parker Falls…although the town may not be as safe as he’d expected. As Jess and Chase reconnect, old feelings return in a major-league way.
With the possibility that Chase could return to the baseball diamond at any time, will their reunion be worth the risk to their hearts? Or will it be déjà vu all over again, with Chase choosing the limelight over the woman he loved before the fame?
The book contains a free original recipe for Bacon & White Cheddar Burgers with Spicy Mustard Relish.
After a few bad pitches leave his dream career in limbo, Chase slides back home to Parker Falls…although the town may not be as safe as he’d expected. As Jess and Chase reconnect, old feelings return in a major-league way.
With the possibility that Chase could return to the baseball diamond at any time, will their reunion be worth the risk to their hearts? Or will it be déjà vu all over again, with Chase choosing the limelight over the woman he loved before the fame?
The book contains a free original recipe for Bacon & White Cheddar Burgers with Spicy Mustard Relish.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2019
47 people are currently reading
330 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
April 6, 2020
4 stars. I’m so unashamed about my genuine love for Hallmark movies. Like I don’t give a rat's ass who knows. Those movies bring me joy and I can watch either the regular Hallmark or Hallmark Mysteries channels all day.
The Perfect Catch is one of my favorites and I watch it every time it comes on. It’s a second chance romance between Chase, a former famous baseball player and Jessica, a waitress and single mother. It’s really sweet and I really do enjoy all of the characters, Jessica’s eight year old son, Wes, included. He's a sweet kid and he doesn't fall into that annoying kid trope. The book is pretty much the film but with an epilogue which I really enjoyed and thought it was precious. It’s a quick read and yes, incredibly cheesy but dammit I love it so much. This book managed to capture the essence of the film and that’s really all that I could ask for.
{Challenges completed:
✔All Challenges All the Time: The Big Bang Theory Challenge
✔The Lost Challenges: Most Iconic Album Covers Challenge
✔The Lost Challenges: The Best Snack Food From Every State Challenge (Book 4 out of 100)}
The Perfect Catch is one of my favorites and I watch it every time it comes on. It’s a second chance romance between Chase, a former famous baseball player and Jessica, a waitress and single mother. It’s really sweet and I really do enjoy all of the characters, Jessica’s eight year old son, Wes, included. He's a sweet kid and he doesn't fall into that annoying kid trope. The book is pretty much the film but with an epilogue which I really enjoyed and thought it was precious. It’s a quick read and yes, incredibly cheesy but dammit I love it so much. This book managed to capture the essence of the film and that’s really all that I could ask for.
{Challenges completed:
✔All Challenges All the Time: The Big Bang Theory Challenge
✔The Lost Challenges: Most Iconic Album Covers Challenge
✔The Lost Challenges: The Best Snack Food From Every State Challenge (Book 4 out of 100)}
April 4, 2018
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
This was a delightful Hallmark movie, but it was not an all-time favorite one for me--maybe because I'm not a baseball fan, who knows? But I expected a great novelization, and the author absolutely hit it out of the park! I found myself reliving memorable moments of the film and understanding character motivations in a much fuller sense. I actually feel like putting the movie on and watching it again with a much deeper understanding--something I'll do in the near future I'm sure.
There are two things that these companion novels seem to consistently provide: comfort reading and mildly profound perspectives. When the typical viewer watches a Hallmark movie, there are sometimes things that don't make sense at first because the viewer doesn't know the backstory or doesn't understand a character's motivation. In this book, I believe the readers were given both. And with that delightful epilogue to wrap everything up, I couldn't be more pleased!
This was a delightful Hallmark movie, but it was not an all-time favorite one for me--maybe because I'm not a baseball fan, who knows? But I expected a great novelization, and the author absolutely hit it out of the park! I found myself reliving memorable moments of the film and understanding character motivations in a much fuller sense. I actually feel like putting the movie on and watching it again with a much deeper understanding--something I'll do in the near future I'm sure.
There are two things that these companion novels seem to consistently provide: comfort reading and mildly profound perspectives. When the typical viewer watches a Hallmark movie, there are sometimes things that don't make sense at first because the viewer doesn't know the backstory or doesn't understand a character's motivation. In this book, I believe the readers were given both. And with that delightful epilogue to wrap everything up, I couldn't be more pleased!
March 28, 2018
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The first thing that drew me to read this book was the cover design which I found very appealing. My family has passed many pleasurable hours attending major league baseball games through the years and our son also played as a youth so I could identify with the title and subject matter.
Chase Taynor was Jessica Parker’s first love. When he left Parker Falls to pursue his dream of a career in baseball, Jessica chose not to go with him. Instead she stayed behind, had a rebound relationship which led to marriage, the birth of her son Wesley and ultimately to divorce. Now she is a single parent struggling to support her son by running the family restaurant Wesley and foreclosure is an all too real possibility.
Chase is also dealing with career struggles having given up a 3 run homer in the final game of the World Series. (Who remembers the name of the pitcher who let Joe Carter hit a game winning 3 run homer in the final game of the ’93 World Series?). He returns home to Parker Falls hoping to hide out from his notoriety while he awaits word as to whether he has a career to go back to. When he and Jessica meet up again will the old feelings still be there? Will Chase learn what matters most to him in life?
This is a book filled with hope and humour and it made me feel good to read it. It took me one evening to finish and left me wishing I had seen the movie.
The first thing that drew me to read this book was the cover design which I found very appealing. My family has passed many pleasurable hours attending major league baseball games through the years and our son also played as a youth so I could identify with the title and subject matter.
Chase Taynor was Jessica Parker’s first love. When he left Parker Falls to pursue his dream of a career in baseball, Jessica chose not to go with him. Instead she stayed behind, had a rebound relationship which led to marriage, the birth of her son Wesley and ultimately to divorce. Now she is a single parent struggling to support her son by running the family restaurant Wesley and foreclosure is an all too real possibility.
Chase is also dealing with career struggles having given up a 3 run homer in the final game of the World Series. (Who remembers the name of the pitcher who let Joe Carter hit a game winning 3 run homer in the final game of the ’93 World Series?). He returns home to Parker Falls hoping to hide out from his notoriety while he awaits word as to whether he has a career to go back to. When he and Jessica meet up again will the old feelings still be there? Will Chase learn what matters most to him in life?
This is a book filled with hope and humour and it made me feel good to read it. It took me one evening to finish and left me wishing I had seen the movie.
January 30, 2019
I would like to thank netgalley and Hallmark Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
A cute hallmark story.
#booktubeathon book 2
Read and watch a book to film adaptation
Read a book with green on the cover
A cute hallmark story.
#booktubeathon book 2
Read and watch a book to film adaptation
Read a book with green on the cover
September 21, 2020
While I enjoyed this Hallmark movie, the book just didn't keep me interested. I fell asleep during it a couple times.
December 5, 2020
The Perfect Catch by Cassidy Carter is a second chance romance between a baseball player that might be done and a diner owner mom of an eight-year-old boy.
Will Jessica and Chase have a second chance together?
Jessica Parker
Jessica Parker is the main female protagonist and love interest. She is a single mom to a son that Jessica wants to keep safe. Jessica is doing a lot and is spreading herself thin since she wants to do everything. Jessica is an interesting character in the way that she wants to protect her son. She hasn't gotten over the love that she had with Chase. Jessica is a great character. Wesley is her son and wants to be a baseball player.
Chase Taynor
Chase Taynor is the main male protagonist and love interest. He is a baseball player that isn't doing too well. Chase's shoulder isn't helping him with his pitches. He likes spending time with Jessica and her son Wesley. Chase is having fun back home, and he likes being back there and remembering who he is and where he came from. He is a great character.
Four Stars
The Perfect Catch by Cassidy Carter is a great book that I loved reading. Chase and Jessica's love story is shown throughout the whole story. I loved reading this story, and I wonder if the film is just as good as the book. Chase, Jessica, and Wesley make a cute little family, and I'm glad that they act like one even though they aren't. I am giving this book four stars and recommending it to anyone that loves to read rom-coms.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Perfect Catch by Cassidy Carter.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Will Jessica and Chase have a second chance together?
Jessica Parker
Jessica Parker is the main female protagonist and love interest. She is a single mom to a son that Jessica wants to keep safe. Jessica is doing a lot and is spreading herself thin since she wants to do everything. Jessica is an interesting character in the way that she wants to protect her son. She hasn't gotten over the love that she had with Chase. Jessica is a great character. Wesley is her son and wants to be a baseball player.
Chase Taynor
Chase Taynor is the main male protagonist and love interest. He is a baseball player that isn't doing too well. Chase's shoulder isn't helping him with his pitches. He likes spending time with Jessica and her son Wesley. Chase is having fun back home, and he likes being back there and remembering who he is and where he came from. He is a great character.
Four Stars
The Perfect Catch by Cassidy Carter is a great book that I loved reading. Chase and Jessica's love story is shown throughout the whole story. I loved reading this story, and I wonder if the film is just as good as the book. Chase, Jessica, and Wesley make a cute little family, and I'm glad that they act like one even though they aren't. I am giving this book four stars and recommending it to anyone that loves to read rom-coms.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Perfect Catch by Cassidy Carter.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
March 30, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Perfect Catch? More like a perfect little read when you need to be reminded about the most important things in life....family.
Fifteen years ago, Chase left Jessica and never looked back. Now's he back in town and their feelings are as strong as ever. But, it's inevitable that he'll leave again. After all, that's what he's good at. Jessica knows not to get attached. But she can't help falling for the man who tutors her son on baseball, the man that urges her never to give up and pursue her dreams, the man she thought was out of her life fifteen years ago.
Chase never thought coming back home would be anything but heartache. His rocky relationship with his parents is still as cold as ever and the woman he once loved has a son and a failing business. He still loves Jessica after all these years and now has grown to love her son. When opportunity knocks, Chase will have to decide whether to follow his dreams or follow his heart.
I love Hallmark. I'm not ashamed of it. And I loved this story. It was a perfect companion to the Hallmark Channel Original Movie "The Perfect Catch." I highly recommend this book for all ages. As all Hallmark material is, it's clean so you don't have to worry about crude language or inappropriate scenes.
The Perfect Catch? More like a perfect little read when you need to be reminded about the most important things in life....family.
Fifteen years ago, Chase left Jessica and never looked back. Now's he back in town and their feelings are as strong as ever. But, it's inevitable that he'll leave again. After all, that's what he's good at. Jessica knows not to get attached. But she can't help falling for the man who tutors her son on baseball, the man that urges her never to give up and pursue her dreams, the man she thought was out of her life fifteen years ago.
Chase never thought coming back home would be anything but heartache. His rocky relationship with his parents is still as cold as ever and the woman he once loved has a son and a failing business. He still loves Jessica after all these years and now has grown to love her son. When opportunity knocks, Chase will have to decide whether to follow his dreams or follow his heart.
I love Hallmark. I'm not ashamed of it. And I loved this story. It was a perfect companion to the Hallmark Channel Original Movie "The Perfect Catch." I highly recommend this book for all ages. As all Hallmark material is, it's clean so you don't have to worry about crude language or inappropriate scenes.
March 29, 2018
A very good book about a baseball pitcher Chase Taynor, who gave up the winning runs in the last years biggest game. He is now back in his hometown. He now needs to fix his relationship with his father and he may have an outside chance with his high school sweetheart. Jessica Parker is now running her family’s dinner but it is barely hanging on. Now she is trying to save her dinner and more importantly raise her son. When she is at the ballpark one day trying to help him when they hear a hooking car horn and there is Chase Taynor. Her son talks his way into Chase helping him in learning to play baseball, and from there the story takes off and it turns out that is the beginning of a very good book. The characters and the story are so much more than the movie, and because this is a book you get a much better look at each character and what they are thinking. You also get a very good epilogue that puts a very good finish on the story that was not given to you if you saw the movie. Overall this was a very good book with good characters. Worth the read. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
March 22, 2018
This was my first Hallmark publishing book and I really enjoyed it! I didn't remember much beyond the basic premise of the movie when I started reading, but I did know I had liked the movie and I may have liked the book even more. For those who haven't read a Hallmark book before, it does follow the movie very closely, but it didn't feel like I was reading a script. The writing was natural and some of the descriptions had me wishing I could visit the food truck in Parker Falls. I loved the sweet romance between Chase and Jessica and the message about going for your dreams and follow your heart to what is most important in life. This was a quick light read that kept me up way later than it should have because I just wanted to read more. If you like Hallmark movies you'll love this book! Can't wait to read more books by Hallmark.
I received a free ARC from Hallmark. All opinions are my own.
I received a free ARC from Hallmark. All opinions are my own.
August 22, 2018
This was such a sweet book and I would definitely watch the movie. Chase and Jessica were high school sweethearts until Chase left to play ball but Jessica did not want to leave her family and they have not seen or spoken in the last 15 years now he is back in town and she is a single mum struggling to keep her dinner open. When they bump into each other again they still have lots of chemistry but can they move past the past.
July 30, 2018
Perfect Catch reads just like a Hallmark Movie, as it should. This is a charming and sweet love story about young lovers reconnecting years later. It’s a classic love story that has likable characters and an interesting storyline. If you want a light hearted, quick read, this is for you!
Thank you to Netgalley and Hallmark for the chance to review this book in exchange of an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hallmark for the chance to review this book in exchange of an honest review.
June 17, 2018
The perfect second chance at love story. Great characters that were believable and good storyline. I liked that Jess decided to step outside her comfort zone and take a chance with her business after playing it safe for so long in work and in love. After suffering a career setback Chase also needed to make some changes to his life. Love me a small town romance and this was a great easy read.
April 8, 2025
cute storyline. enjoyable
March 26, 2018
ARC provided by NetGalley.
Very sweet and mushy second chance love story. Now this makes me want to go find the movie and watch
Very sweet and mushy second chance love story. Now this makes me want to go find the movie and watch
January 22, 2019
The Perfect Catch was a book I read back in August. At a time when I wasn't reading that many books. So I barely remember much about it but I do remember that it was a book I got through NetGalley from the publisher. And I'm thankful that they gave me the opportunity to read it and that I actually finished reading it.
I liked the mother-son relationship the main characters had. It was clear that she would do anything to make her kid happy.
And although I did get some swoon-worthy moments from Jessica and Chace I didn't really like Chase.
Full review on my blog:
https://bookishisland.blogspot.com/20...
I liked the mother-son relationship the main characters had. It was clear that she would do anything to make her kid happy.
And although I did get some swoon-worthy moments from Jessica and Chace I didn't really like Chase.
Full review on my blog:
https://bookishisland.blogspot.com/20...
August 13, 2018
The Perfect Catch by Cassidy Carter
Based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie
Source: Nethalley
My Rating: 4½/5 stars
Parker Falls is a small town, a community, a place where no matter your circumstances, you can come home to a welcoming group of friends and family. In the worst way possible, Chase Taynor is learning this lesson. As a professional baseball player, Chase has spent more than a decade in the limelight, but his last game hung on his talents, he just couldn’t pull it off, and the whole world saw his failure. With no new contract and no teams knocking on his door, Chase has headed home to lay low and pray for a miracle.
His first day back in town, Chase runs into the girl who got away, Jessica Parker. Chase’s career and Jessica’s family circumstances separated the two more than a decade ago, and though he has dated other women, none of them were Jessica Parker. Chase doesn’t intend to be home for long but hanging out with Jessica seems to be the perfect way to pass the time and forget about his troubles for just a little while.
Jessica Parker and her young son Wesley haven’t had the greatest run over the last couple of years. Wesley’s dad needed to “get away to find himself” and their family restaurant hasn’t been bringing in business the way it used to. What’s more, Jessica’s safe-won’t-break-her-heart boyfriend isn’t at all what he started out to be. While he is still friendly, he doesn’t seem quite as invested in the relationship as he once did. Lately, he’s seemed more interested in growing his insurance business than he is in being with Jessica and Wesley. When Chase Taynor walks back into her life and restaurant, Jessica isn’t quite sure if he’s part of the not so great run of luck or something entirely different.
Though Jessica is somewhat wary of Chase’s presence, Wesley isn’t at all wary. In fact, with Chase’s help, Wesley begins to come out of his shell and truly enjoy his extracurricular activities. In fact, with Chase’s help, Wesley is becoming quite the baseball player! Jessica loves seeing her young son so happy, and because of his change, she begins to think about some changes in her own life. Though change often involves risk, Jessica is ready for the challenge, and if she doesn’t do something, she’s going to lose everything.
The Bottom Line: Y’all I am stupid in love with these based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie books!! These books are exactly what I love about Hallmark movies, there’s just enough conflict to keep things interesting, there are sweet characters you really want to see succeed, and, of course there’s the guaranteed HEA. Chase, Jessica, and Wesley are all simply delightful characters and it was wonderful seeing each one receives their own unique and collective second chance. Second chance romance, coming home stories, yeah, this is the best of all things romance and well worth an afternoon of your life 😊
Based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie
Source: Nethalley
My Rating: 4½/5 stars
Parker Falls is a small town, a community, a place where no matter your circumstances, you can come home to a welcoming group of friends and family. In the worst way possible, Chase Taynor is learning this lesson. As a professional baseball player, Chase has spent more than a decade in the limelight, but his last game hung on his talents, he just couldn’t pull it off, and the whole world saw his failure. With no new contract and no teams knocking on his door, Chase has headed home to lay low and pray for a miracle.
His first day back in town, Chase runs into the girl who got away, Jessica Parker. Chase’s career and Jessica’s family circumstances separated the two more than a decade ago, and though he has dated other women, none of them were Jessica Parker. Chase doesn’t intend to be home for long but hanging out with Jessica seems to be the perfect way to pass the time and forget about his troubles for just a little while.
Jessica Parker and her young son Wesley haven’t had the greatest run over the last couple of years. Wesley’s dad needed to “get away to find himself” and their family restaurant hasn’t been bringing in business the way it used to. What’s more, Jessica’s safe-won’t-break-her-heart boyfriend isn’t at all what he started out to be. While he is still friendly, he doesn’t seem quite as invested in the relationship as he once did. Lately, he’s seemed more interested in growing his insurance business than he is in being with Jessica and Wesley. When Chase Taynor walks back into her life and restaurant, Jessica isn’t quite sure if he’s part of the not so great run of luck or something entirely different.
Though Jessica is somewhat wary of Chase’s presence, Wesley isn’t at all wary. In fact, with Chase’s help, Wesley begins to come out of his shell and truly enjoy his extracurricular activities. In fact, with Chase’s help, Wesley is becoming quite the baseball player! Jessica loves seeing her young son so happy, and because of his change, she begins to think about some changes in her own life. Though change often involves risk, Jessica is ready for the challenge, and if she doesn’t do something, she’s going to lose everything.
The Bottom Line: Y’all I am stupid in love with these based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie books!! These books are exactly what I love about Hallmark movies, there’s just enough conflict to keep things interesting, there are sweet characters you really want to see succeed, and, of course there’s the guaranteed HEA. Chase, Jessica, and Wesley are all simply delightful characters and it was wonderful seeing each one receives their own unique and collective second chance. Second chance romance, coming home stories, yeah, this is the best of all things romance and well worth an afternoon of your life 😊
March 23, 2018
The name Hallmark always catches my eye, folks. To find a book that has been featured on the Hallmark Channel also peaks my interest. What can I say? Not finding the Hallmark Channel sweet and endearing is like saying you don’t like rainbows, adorable, cuddly puppies, or soft, fluffy kittens. After all, they are a sure bet for a HEA.
The Perfect Catch does seem perfectly scripted to be a Hallmark cable TV movie. If you like a super squeaky clean romance where intimate moments are limited to hand holding and a few chaste kisses late in the storyline, you’ll likely want to reel this one in. If racy smexy is your scene, well, look elsewhere, my friend. This is definitely not a bodice ripper type read.
With a 15 year separation, it isn’t a surprise Jessica, the heroine, is already dating someone else, apparently Mr. Boring and Predictable. Finding out she is raising a young boy as a single parent due to a rebound guy marriage/divorce, set the stage for me to wonder what if this main couple had fought for love in the first place. It appears Chase had taken the cowardly way out and didn’t give final goodbyes before ghosting to chase his baseball career dreams. Pride on both their sides kept them from reaching out over the years, despite Chase’s infrequent return to town family visits. But don’t feel overly sorry for him, folks. He’s lived the big glamorous life, which currently entailed dating a supermodel.
When bad luck and misfortune comes his way, he returns back home to regroup and lick his wounds. Sadly, I have to assume if this had not happened Jessica would not have wound up back in the game of love with him again.
So, if you are looking for sweet with some mild, predictable relationship angst without any smexiness, you might want to consider checking out this book, along with other similar books by this publisher.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: The Perfect Catch, Author: Cassidy Carter, Pages: 211, stand-alone, professional baseball hero, small town diner owner heroine, second chance romance, no steamy scenes, HEA, both were dating someone else in the beginning, no unexpected/surprising drama, predictable storyline.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
The Perfect Catch does seem perfectly scripted to be a Hallmark cable TV movie. If you like a super squeaky clean romance where intimate moments are limited to hand holding and a few chaste kisses late in the storyline, you’ll likely want to reel this one in. If racy smexy is your scene, well, look elsewhere, my friend. This is definitely not a bodice ripper type read.
With a 15 year separation, it isn’t a surprise Jessica, the heroine, is already dating someone else, apparently Mr. Boring and Predictable. Finding out she is raising a young boy as a single parent due to a rebound guy marriage/divorce, set the stage for me to wonder what if this main couple had fought for love in the first place. It appears Chase had taken the cowardly way out and didn’t give final goodbyes before ghosting to chase his baseball career dreams. Pride on both their sides kept them from reaching out over the years, despite Chase’s infrequent return to town family visits. But don’t feel overly sorry for him, folks. He’s lived the big glamorous life, which currently entailed dating a supermodel.
When bad luck and misfortune comes his way, he returns back home to regroup and lick his wounds. Sadly, I have to assume if this had not happened Jessica would not have wound up back in the game of love with him again.
So, if you are looking for sweet with some mild, predictable relationship angst without any smexiness, you might want to consider checking out this book, along with other similar books by this publisher.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: The Perfect Catch, Author: Cassidy Carter, Pages: 211, stand-alone, professional baseball hero, small town diner owner heroine, second chance romance, no steamy scenes, HEA, both were dating someone else in the beginning, no unexpected/surprising drama, predictable storyline.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
June 6, 2018
Publisher's Description:
She’s small-town.
He’s big-league.
They broke up years ago…
But is it really over?
In the small town of Parker Falls, Jessica Parker spends her time serving pie and coming up with ideas to save the failing diner she inherited from her grandfather. A single mom to eight-year-old Wesley, she has enough to keep her busy well into the future. But when her old high school love, Chase Taynor, unexpectedly pops up, Jess finds herself thinking not of the future but of her past with the handsome professional baseball player.
After a few bad pitches leave his dream career in limbo, Chase slides back home to Parker Falls…although the town may not be as safe as he’d expected. As Jess and Chase reconnect, old feelings return in a major-league way.
With the possibility that Chase could return to the baseball diamond at any time, will their reunion be worth the risk to their hearts? Or will it be déjà vu all over again, with Chase choosing the limelight over the woman he loved before the fame?
My Thoughts:
I loved this second chances book. It is both a second chance at love and dreams story that draws the reader in and never lets go.
Chase Taynor and Jessica Parker were high school sweethearts but Chase left to pursue his dream of playing major league baseball. Now after a disastrous 9th inning where he gave up the chance to win a world series he has come back home to wait to see if any baseball team will give him a second chance.
Jessica is busy trying to save her family's failing diner which she inherited. Trying desperately to juggle the life of a single mom and the diner is all that is on her mind until Chase suddenly is back in her life.
Will this second chance at romance for Chase and Jessica win out in the end or will Chase's second chance at his dream win?
This poignant and delightful Hallmark story is a must read.
I gave it 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development. I really liked most of the characters, especially those of Chase, Jessica and her eight year old son in this sweet/clean story of a developing second chance at romance story..
The heat level is zero in this book that was a 2017 Hallmark original movie.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
She’s small-town.
He’s big-league.
They broke up years ago…
But is it really over?
In the small town of Parker Falls, Jessica Parker spends her time serving pie and coming up with ideas to save the failing diner she inherited from her grandfather. A single mom to eight-year-old Wesley, she has enough to keep her busy well into the future. But when her old high school love, Chase Taynor, unexpectedly pops up, Jess finds herself thinking not of the future but of her past with the handsome professional baseball player.
After a few bad pitches leave his dream career in limbo, Chase slides back home to Parker Falls…although the town may not be as safe as he’d expected. As Jess and Chase reconnect, old feelings return in a major-league way.
With the possibility that Chase could return to the baseball diamond at any time, will their reunion be worth the risk to their hearts? Or will it be déjà vu all over again, with Chase choosing the limelight over the woman he loved before the fame?
My Thoughts:
I loved this second chances book. It is both a second chance at love and dreams story that draws the reader in and never lets go.
Chase Taynor and Jessica Parker were high school sweethearts but Chase left to pursue his dream of playing major league baseball. Now after a disastrous 9th inning where he gave up the chance to win a world series he has come back home to wait to see if any baseball team will give him a second chance.
Jessica is busy trying to save her family's failing diner which she inherited. Trying desperately to juggle the life of a single mom and the diner is all that is on her mind until Chase suddenly is back in her life.
Will this second chance at romance for Chase and Jessica win out in the end or will Chase's second chance at his dream win?
This poignant and delightful Hallmark story is a must read.
I gave it 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development. I really liked most of the characters, especially those of Chase, Jessica and her eight year old son in this sweet/clean story of a developing second chance at romance story..
The heat level is zero in this book that was a 2017 Hallmark original movie.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
March 23, 2018
I liked this book adaption of a Hallmark movie. I saw the movie some time ago and as I read the book I could see each scene play out like my memory of the movie does. Like all Hallmark romance movies, which I love to watch, it was just a little on the sappy side. I believe that is why we like Hallmark movies. We are allowed to sigh and swoon a little especially as we come to the HEA moment. Even though the book follows the movie story line very closely, at least in my memory, it didn't feel quite as cheesy to me. The book is swoony romantic minus some cheese/sap.
My favorite moment in the book is when Chase asks his father for advice. It is a touching moment since their relationship has been strained for so long but Chase is willing to set it aside to hear what his father has to say. And then his dad tells him that he once had to make a similar decision so he made a list of everything he would gain or lose by taking a job. One column showed money, opportunities and travel. The other column only had one word. Lindy. Oh, such a swoony moment. Sigh....
I loved that the main characters in the book are so supportive of each other. Chase is willing to help Jess achieve her goals and Jess is happy for Chase to achieve his even though it means he will leave her behind. She is heartbroken yet wouldn't consider trying to keep him from his goal.
Also, I loved that the boyfriend that is all wrong for her gets to have a HEA as well. He isn't a bad guy, he is just the wrong guy.
And in keeping with Hallmark romance, the book is clean. No sex, violence or language.
My favorite moment in the book is when Chase asks his father for advice. It is a touching moment since their relationship has been strained for so long but Chase is willing to set it aside to hear what his father has to say. And then his dad tells him that he once had to make a similar decision so he made a list of everything he would gain or lose by taking a job. One column showed money, opportunities and travel. The other column only had one word. Lindy. Oh, such a swoony moment. Sigh....
I loved that the main characters in the book are so supportive of each other. Chase is willing to help Jess achieve her goals and Jess is happy for Chase to achieve his even though it means he will leave her behind. She is heartbroken yet wouldn't consider trying to keep him from his goal.
Also, I loved that the boyfriend that is all wrong for her gets to have a HEA as well. He isn't a bad guy, he is just the wrong guy.
And in keeping with Hallmark romance, the book is clean. No sex, violence or language.
March 27, 2018
#ThePerfectCatch #NetGalley
#HallmarkPublishing.
publisher synopsis: In the small town of Parker Falls, Jessica Parker spends her time serving pie and coming up with ideas to save the failing diner she inherited from her grandfather. A single mom to eight-year-old Wesley, she has enough to keep her busy well into the future. But when her old high school love, Chase Taynor, unexpectedly pops up, Jess finds herself thinking not of the future but of her past with the handsome professional baseball player.
After a few bad pitches leave his dream career in limbo, Chase slides back home to Parker Falls…although the town may not be as safe as he’d expected. As Jess and Chase reconnect, old feelings return in a major-league way.
With the possibility that Chase could return to the baseball diamond at any time, will their reunion be worth the risk to their hearts? Or will it be déjà vu all over again, with Chase choosing the limelight over the woman he loved before the fame?
Cute, heart warming novel that is a HEA. I really didn't expect the ending it had, but I wasn't disappointed either :)
I like the relationship Jess and Chase have, the banter, how they just know and understand each other. I am glad she didn't end up with the guy who blew her off and didn't support her. I like how Chase was with Wesley. This book had a lot of broken people, not just the main characters, and it was really neat the ripple effect that helping had in the book.
I received an advance copy to review from the publisher.
#HallmarkPublishing.
publisher synopsis: In the small town of Parker Falls, Jessica Parker spends her time serving pie and coming up with ideas to save the failing diner she inherited from her grandfather. A single mom to eight-year-old Wesley, she has enough to keep her busy well into the future. But when her old high school love, Chase Taynor, unexpectedly pops up, Jess finds herself thinking not of the future but of her past with the handsome professional baseball player.
After a few bad pitches leave his dream career in limbo, Chase slides back home to Parker Falls…although the town may not be as safe as he’d expected. As Jess and Chase reconnect, old feelings return in a major-league way.
With the possibility that Chase could return to the baseball diamond at any time, will their reunion be worth the risk to their hearts? Or will it be déjà vu all over again, with Chase choosing the limelight over the woman he loved before the fame?
Cute, heart warming novel that is a HEA. I really didn't expect the ending it had, but I wasn't disappointed either :)
I like the relationship Jess and Chase have, the banter, how they just know and understand each other. I am glad she didn't end up with the guy who blew her off and didn't support her. I like how Chase was with Wesley. This book had a lot of broken people, not just the main characters, and it was really neat the ripple effect that helping had in the book.
I received an advance copy to review from the publisher.
July 27, 2020
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. You can get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Catch-...
This is a book based on a movie. Yup, you heard that correctly. Book based on MOVIE! I read the book before I had seen the movie and it translated as well on screen as it did on the page. I LOVE me some Hallmark. This book did not disappoint! I love me the light and fluffy books! They give you all the feels without too much drama and no horror. This book begins in Hometown Diner with Jessica Parker, a waitress daydreaming. Jessica was not only a waitress, but the owner of the diner. She had taken it over from her grandfather. Thankfully to his policy of only serving what is on his menu, when her son orders a double burger with fries, extra pickles, cupcakes and a mega-gulp soda, she has an out! Nina, Jessica’s best friend from high school, also fellow waitress points out that Jessica’s ex is on TV, AGAIN! It was a baseball game clip of Chase blowing the game for the Boston Sox. Jessica interrupts the comments about her ex to take her son to baseball practice. Ironic, right? We learn how Wesley, Jessica’s son isn’t the best baseball player, but ends up getting an unexpected surprise and the best coach ever! Jessica also ends up getting a nice surprise in the baseball coach. They both learn to trust again and to love again. This book is just what we needed right now!
This is a book based on a movie. Yup, you heard that correctly. Book based on MOVIE! I read the book before I had seen the movie and it translated as well on screen as it did on the page. I LOVE me some Hallmark. This book did not disappoint! I love me the light and fluffy books! They give you all the feels without too much drama and no horror. This book begins in Hometown Diner with Jessica Parker, a waitress daydreaming. Jessica was not only a waitress, but the owner of the diner. She had taken it over from her grandfather. Thankfully to his policy of only serving what is on his menu, when her son orders a double burger with fries, extra pickles, cupcakes and a mega-gulp soda, she has an out! Nina, Jessica’s best friend from high school, also fellow waitress points out that Jessica’s ex is on TV, AGAIN! It was a baseball game clip of Chase blowing the game for the Boston Sox. Jessica interrupts the comments about her ex to take her son to baseball practice. Ironic, right? We learn how Wesley, Jessica’s son isn’t the best baseball player, but ends up getting an unexpected surprise and the best coach ever! Jessica also ends up getting a nice surprise in the baseball coach. They both learn to trust again and to love again. This book is just what we needed right now!
March 26, 2018
A sweet story of second chances, The Perfect Catch is a Hallmark movie I love to rewatch, so I couldn’t wait to read Cassidy Carter’s novelization. A tale of forgiveness, love, and family, I could root for the protagonists as they discovered that the true value in life doesn’t always lie where one might expect. Wesley, as starved to learn baseball as he is for a father figure and role model, latches on to the professional player. Watching Chase step up to plate and take the boy under his wing melted my heart.
My numerous viewings of the made-for-TV-movie allowed me to visualize every scene as it unfolded. Unfortunately for those who haven’t seen it, setting and character description lacked greatly — as though watching silhouettes moving about a blank stage. The story also needed more showing and less telling. The continuous use of phrases such as “s/he realized/felt/ knew/could tell/etc.” pulled me out of the tale, keeping me at arm’s length rather than completely immersed. This being said, that wouldn’t stop me from reading more books by Hallmark Publishing or this author. Both are fairly new to the publishing world and those issues will probably work themselves out with time and experience.
Though not a homerun, The Perfect Catch delivers a solid base hit. I recommend this story of love and forgiveness to Hallmark fans who enjoy cute, entertaining reads that still cling to family-friendly values.
Review copy provided by publisher via NetGalley. Thanks!
My numerous viewings of the made-for-TV-movie allowed me to visualize every scene as it unfolded. Unfortunately for those who haven’t seen it, setting and character description lacked greatly — as though watching silhouettes moving about a blank stage. The story also needed more showing and less telling. The continuous use of phrases such as “s/he realized/felt/ knew/could tell/etc.” pulled me out of the tale, keeping me at arm’s length rather than completely immersed. This being said, that wouldn’t stop me from reading more books by Hallmark Publishing or this author. Both are fairly new to the publishing world and those issues will probably work themselves out with time and experience.
Though not a homerun, The Perfect Catch delivers a solid base hit. I recommend this story of love and forgiveness to Hallmark fans who enjoy cute, entertaining reads that still cling to family-friendly values.
Review copy provided by publisher via NetGalley. Thanks!
April 3, 2018
Jessica Parker and Chase Taynor had been sweethearts and had planned their lives after graduation, but Chase got a call to play baseball with the big boys so he left Parker Falls and had been gone for 15 years. Jessica had moved one, married, became a mother, divorced and now was raising a son, Wes, alone, while trying to keep her family's diner in the black. She wasn't succeeding and was scared that before long she would lose the diner to the bank. She had to come up with something else to breathe life back into her place.
Chase was back. He had not been resigned with Boston and now was a famous baseball player without a team. He had come back to Parker Falls expecting it to be for only a couple of weeks, but the possibility was there that his career would be over. As he began to reconnect with Jessica and bonded with her son, Wes, he saw that maybe he had been missing something in his life. Was returning to baseball the thing he wanted most or was a family with the woman he loved more important? He was going to have to make a tough choice but would it be the right one before it was too late?
I really enjoyed this story. It was a sweet story of second change love and of love conquering all odds. It was a story of rebuilding trust and learning to depend on the help of others in difficult times. It was a clean story with no sex or foul language and was beautifully told.
I was given an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Chase was back. He had not been resigned with Boston and now was a famous baseball player without a team. He had come back to Parker Falls expecting it to be for only a couple of weeks, but the possibility was there that his career would be over. As he began to reconnect with Jessica and bonded with her son, Wes, he saw that maybe he had been missing something in his life. Was returning to baseball the thing he wanted most or was a family with the woman he loved more important? He was going to have to make a tough choice but would it be the right one before it was too late?
I really enjoyed this story. It was a sweet story of second change love and of love conquering all odds. It was a story of rebuilding trust and learning to depend on the help of others in difficult times. It was a clean story with no sex or foul language and was beautifully told.
I was given an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2018
In this well written, heart-warming sports romance, single mother Jessica has reached the end of her tether trying to keep all her balls in the air with a failing business and a son that needs a man’s influence in his life. As if she doesn’t have enough to deal with, her high school boyfriend, Chase Taynor, returns to town with his tail between his legs after a major baseball defeat. When he meets up with Jess again, he gets his first inkling of all he has left behind, but it is her son Wesley with his mischievous charm that hooks him into becoming part of the community once again. Jess knows and understands that Chase is only going to be in town long enough to find another contract but in the meantime her bubbly personality and positive view on life draw Chase in once more. In giving young Wesley some coaching, Chase hears his own advice and realises that there is more to life than he previously thought, and even if he isn’t up in the limelight, baseball will always be there in whatever form it takes. The story is clean and tender hearted, with good people who care about one another and some fun laugh out loud moments. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
December 30, 2019
The Perfect Catch: Based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie by Cassidy Carter
Set in a small town (Parker Falls) Jessica is trying to save the Diner she inherited from her Grandmother. She is a single Mother to young Wesley, her pride and joy. Chase is a professional baseball player at a standstill with his career, he comes back to Parker Falls his childhood home.
Jessica and Chase had a romantic past in their youth and it seem their feeling are returning. Things are different now with Jess having a son and Chase's baseball career. Will Jess be able to save the Diner, will Chase return to baseball or stay in his hometown? And finally what will become of their potential romance.
An original story that moves at a fast paced. With well developed and likable characters, engaging dialog and attention to detail, it was easy to be drawn into their world. Although the story was a bit predictable (to me), I still found the story enjoyable. I recommend The Perfect Catch: Based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie to those who enjoy sweet romance.
Set in a small town (Parker Falls) Jessica is trying to save the Diner she inherited from her Grandmother. She is a single Mother to young Wesley, her pride and joy. Chase is a professional baseball player at a standstill with his career, he comes back to Parker Falls his childhood home.
Jessica and Chase had a romantic past in their youth and it seem their feeling are returning. Things are different now with Jess having a son and Chase's baseball career. Will Jess be able to save the Diner, will Chase return to baseball or stay in his hometown? And finally what will become of their potential romance.
An original story that moves at a fast paced. With well developed and likable characters, engaging dialog and attention to detail, it was easy to be drawn into their world. Although the story was a bit predictable (to me), I still found the story enjoyable. I recommend The Perfect Catch: Based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie to those who enjoy sweet romance.
March 27, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. I typically read historical romances, but I have a few favorite contemporary romance authors who are a must-read (Jennifer Crusie, Kristan Higgins). I also really like Rachel Gibson's hockey romances and Susan Elizabeth Phillips' Chicago Stars series. So, when I saw this book, I decided to give it a chance, especially since we're big baseball fans in my family; my husband played college ball, too.
The Perfect Catch is a very sweet, second chance romance. The chemistry between Jessica and Chase is very believable, as are the issues they have to contend with. I also really liked the secondary relationships in the book, such as Jessica and her son and Chase and his parents. The baseball element was a fun distinguishing characteristic. Carter is a strong writer who knows how to solicit emotion. Since reading this book I have learned it was based on a Hallmark movie, but that doesn't impact my opinion one way or the other. Knowing nothing about the movie, I really loved this book.
***I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review. All opinions are my own.***
The Perfect Catch is a very sweet, second chance romance. The chemistry between Jessica and Chase is very believable, as are the issues they have to contend with. I also really liked the secondary relationships in the book, such as Jessica and her son and Chase and his parents. The baseball element was a fun distinguishing characteristic. Carter is a strong writer who knows how to solicit emotion. Since reading this book I have learned it was based on a Hallmark movie, but that doesn't impact my opinion one way or the other. Knowing nothing about the movie, I really loved this book.
***I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review. All opinions are my own.***
July 1, 2018
After high school Jessica Parker stayed in Parker Falls to run her family's diner and raise her son, Wesley. Lately both have been harder than she expected. Business has fallen off at the diner and her son is missing not having a dad to teach him baseball. Her high school love and MLB player, Chase Taynor has come back home as he awaits his new MLB home after a bad play that causes his team to lose the World Series. Jessica and Chase fall right back into the friendship they have always had but will Chase decide to stay in Parker Falls or will the call of fame and fortune lure him away?
This book is based on the Hallmark movie of the same name which I have not watched. It is a sweet story with a predictable ending but that is what you want and expect when it comes to Hallmark. You know you will finish the book with a smile.
A clean romance for all ages from a young teenager say 14 to my 90 year old grandma. No sex, no foul language and no violence.
I received a complimentary copy from Hallmark Publishing through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the review are my own.
This book is based on the Hallmark movie of the same name which I have not watched. It is a sweet story with a predictable ending but that is what you want and expect when it comes to Hallmark. You know you will finish the book with a smile.
A clean romance for all ages from a young teenager say 14 to my 90 year old grandma. No sex, no foul language and no violence.
I received a complimentary copy from Hallmark Publishing through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the review are my own.
March 27, 2018
This is my first book by Cassidy Carter & I really enjoyed it. The book was sweet & had me rooting for Jessica & Chase right from the beginning. They were a good couple, with a past relationship & disappointment that led both to make mistakes that neither would regret. The return of Chase to his hometown while he waits to find out his careers fate brings the past back for both Jessica & Chase. They both know that the past might repeat itself but they just can’t fight the inevitable were their feelings are concerned. The totally loveable character of Wesley just wrapped himself around my heart, he was so cute & mischievous. Nina was another wonderful character being Jessica’s best friend & co-worker who softly pushes Jessica towards Chase again. Brett, I wasn’t a huge fan of in the beginning but his character redeemed himself. I would definitely look for more books by this author. Recommend to read. I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review.
April 1, 2018
Get ready for diner food as we travel to the small town of Parker Falls in The Perfect Catch based on the Hallmark Channel Original Movie.
Jessica Parker has a failing diner. She is trying to come up with ideas to save it. On top of the fact that she is struggling to keep the lights on, she inherited the diner from her grandfather, so the pressure is on to save it.
Chase Taynor is a baseball player and happens to be Jessica's former high school love. He shows up out of the blue, struggling in his career.
I remember enjoying this movie when it was on, and the book brought the scenes back to life. I could picture the pie in the diner and Chase connecting with Jessica's son.
The Perfect Catch was a journey of love, hope, and second chances. This was another great addition to Hallmark's line of books.
*I received a free copy of this product to facilitate this post, however you, my readers, come first and all opinions are my own.
Jessica Parker has a failing diner. She is trying to come up with ideas to save it. On top of the fact that she is struggling to keep the lights on, she inherited the diner from her grandfather, so the pressure is on to save it.
Chase Taynor is a baseball player and happens to be Jessica's former high school love. He shows up out of the blue, struggling in his career.
I remember enjoying this movie when it was on, and the book brought the scenes back to life. I could picture the pie in the diner and Chase connecting with Jessica's son.
The Perfect Catch was a journey of love, hope, and second chances. This was another great addition to Hallmark's line of books.
*I received a free copy of this product to facilitate this post, however you, my readers, come first and all opinions are my own.
March 25, 2018
I saw the movie was on TV recently, but I wanted to finish this first. I confess I couldn't get into the story for the first few chapters, but I'm glad I kept reading because it got better! What a sweet, family-centric book that makes you feel good and chuckle at the same time. Bonus points if you're a baseball fan and love stories set in small towns, because this will be a great fit for you. Chase's relationship with his dad was one of my favorite subplots and I loved Jessica's growth throughout the book as she began taking more risks. What a great message!! There is nothing wrong with trying something new and changing things up in your life, especially from a business standpoint. Hope I can catch the movie next time it's on because now I want to watch it!!
I received this book for free from Hallmark Publishing and BookFunnel in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book for free from Hallmark Publishing and BookFunnel in exchange for an honest review.
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