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Swift #1

The Curve

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Atticus Swift has the world by the balls. He’s got timing and a natural rhythm in life that serves him well. The sexy Memphis Mavericks catcher is passionate about his career. Everything else requires little effort from him. For the Swift dynasty, baseball runs in their blood. It practically gallops.
Sidelined by an injury, he spots a woman across the room at a signing. And she’s paying him no attention. Her focus is on a shy teenage girl.

Charlotte Bay is dedicated to her responsibilities. And even though she dreams of romance and love, no man has gotten close enough to figure that out. Because above all, Charlotte’s a single mother whose goal is to raise a happy, confident child. Daughter Mallory has scars, emotional and physical. Both mother and child are a little broken, but even personal trials have an expiration date. And maybe their time has arrived.

146 pages, ebook

First published June 8, 2018

390 people are currently reading
853 people want to read

About the author

Leslie Pike

45 books2,246 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
Profile Image for Carole (Carole's Random Life).
1,943 reviews610 followers
April 17, 2022
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/

This was a fun sports romance! I was in the mood for a lighter listen and this audiobook narrated by Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell really hit the spot. I fell for Atticus, Charlotte, and Mallory right away and I was hooked by the story until the very end. Once I put my headphones on, I kept them on until the story drew to a close because I just had to see how everything would work out for this group of characters. I was thoroughly entertained by this delightful romance.

Atticus is a baseball and when he sees Charlotte at an event, he knows that he needs to meet her. Charlotte is a single mother of a young teenage girl who has trouble making friends due to the burn scars she cannot hide. Charlotte is so focused on raising her daughter that she isn’t sure that she wants to give Atticus a chance but he finally is able to convince her to go on a date. The chemistry between Atticus and Charlotte was wonderfully done. I also really liked how the relationship between Atticus and Malory grew over the course of the story.

Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell did a fantastic job with the narration of this story. I thought that their voices complimented each other perfectly. I thought that both of the narrators did a wonderful job of bringing their characters to life and I think that they added a lot of emotion to their reading. I do believe that their narration added to my overall enjoyment of the story.

I would recommend this story to fans of contemporary romance. This is a shorter novella-length piece that tells a very big story. I had a great time with this feel-good romance filled with fantastic characters and hope to read more of the series in the future.

I received a digital review copy of this book from the author/publicist.
Profile Image for Fiona Fog.
1,461 reviews86 followers
September 8, 2019
All the Feels

I loved Atticus’s character. He wasn’t what expected nor was the story. It’s a sweet and heartfelt romance that gave all the feels.

Single mom Charlotte is raising her daughter Mallory alone. She’s done a fantastic job. On her own! It hasn’t been easy and since the tragic prank that went wrong scarred her beautiful daughter she’s had to fight to keep her safe and protected.

When Atticus spots Charlotte at a signing for The Mavericks Baseball team he’s instantly in lust. Woman have been easy for him. Being a good looking guy and a baseball star comes with the perks. But lately he’s been looking for more. And seeing Charlotte he realises she could be his more along with her daughter.

A feel good story of family and second chances at finding your forever.

Thumbs up from me!
Profile Image for Serena Books.
2,005 reviews107 followers
April 11, 2020
giphy
Si el destino te lanza bolas curvas, las atrapas para siempre




The curve de Leslie Pike libro 1 serie Swift

Mí humilde opinión:

Atticus Swift es un jugador popular de baseball de los Memphis Mavericks.

Él es un mujeriego y le gusta ser libre pero eso se está volviendo aburrido.

Hasta que pone sus ojos en Charlotte y conseguirla se convierte en la misión de su vida. Pero hay asuntos que no vio venir, la mujer en la que puso sus ojos tiene una hija adolescente y al parecer es inmune a todos sus encantos.



Disfruté mucho con la historia de Atticus y Charlotte.
Una pareja explosiva. Ambos personajes con una camaderia y humor que me compró desde el principio.

Y por favor este par tiene unas escenas de lo más románticas y sexys!

La escena de la cama en el bosque y las luciérnagas, la pedida de mano...

tumblr-inline-ogwn33-A5-T31rifr4k-500

Cómo no morir de amor con eso!
Además de eso, me gustó mucho y me reí con toda la familia Swift desde los abuelos hasta los padres.

Me encantó ver enamorarse a Atticus, todo el tema de su persecución por Charlotte me hizo reír y también babear, tengo que confesarlo!

También fue interesante porque toca el tema del acoso escolar. Aquí lo sufre Mallory que es la hija de 13 años de Charlotte. Se merece un plus por el mensaje también.

The curve es un libro que me duro una tarde. Simple de la mejor forma. Sobre un deportista y una madre soltera que te enamoran desde el primer encuentro. Es sobre abrazar el amor y no correr de los miedos. 
Profile Image for Veronica Ticker.
901 reviews61 followers
April 17, 2022
(audiobook+ebook) Since it’s only a novella, everything is speeded up, so instalove it is. But at least the author takes her time and Atticus actually has to work to convince Charlotte to give him a chance.

Mostly, it’s because Charlotte is a single mother and her daughter is her priority. It doesn’t help that Mallory is a teenager with a physical flaw that make her a victim of bullying. It’s always a mystery how an author will deal with a heavy topic. Sometimes, it’s barely brushed. Here, the emotional burden of bullying, both for the victim and the people who love them, is well treated, and heartwrenching. I felt for that girl. And the author goes as far as offering solutions, all coming from people supporting each other while taking a stance. Powerful.

I loved how Atticus acted with Mallory. She wasn’t just a way for him to seduce her mother. He really liked her, and wanted the best for her. And, like any parent, hovering between wanting to protect their child, and teaching them how to be strong on their own while letting them make their own mistakes. Not exactly a book about what parenting entails, but close enough.

No, the real focus of the story is of course the romance between the playboy athlete and the single mother. And it was a sexy story, right from Atticus’s solo scene.

The narrators were well cast. The female narrator’s trembling voice was perfect for Charlotte’s emotional breakdowns, while the male narrator gave the right energy for Atticus. Short, sexy, but not easily dismissed, it was a nice listen.

Quickie

- Series: Swift #1 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #sports romance #single mom #baseball #novella
- Triggers: teenage bullying
- Main couple: Charlotte Bay & Atticus Swift
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the author’s take on fighting against bullying
- – of course Atticus gives up his playboy way for Charlotte…
Profile Image for Rellim.
1,676 reviews43 followers
April 13, 2022
This was my first book by Leslie Pike, but it definitely won’t be my last. I really enjoyed this low angst, high heat romance. Lots of tropes & themes I enjoy: especially single mom, sports star who meets his match, and super sexy chemistry.

I liked that Pike kicked this off with Charlotte not knowing sports and Atticus had to work to get attention. I loved that Mallory is the focus and priority of Charlotte’s life. Even better is that Atticus respects that and carves out his own friendship with Mallory.

Most of the angst comes from dealing with Mallory being bullied and what that means for her, Charlotte, and Atticus as he becomes more involved in their lives. I liked the mix of sweet dates and steamy sex scenes.

Atticus’s family is great and all the banter is a lot of fun. I enjoyed getting to know the other Swift siblings, Brick & Bristol. Enough to be interested in their books, but they didn’t take over this story.

Epilogues! I love ‘em and Pike delivers here! All the warm fuzzies knowing Atticus, Charlotte, and Mallory get their HEA.

I’m ready to dive into The Closer, but definitely waiting for audio.

Narration:
I adore Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell in dual narration. In addition to having wonderfully swoony performances of their own, they complement each other well. They’re both great at banter, emotion, and sex scenes. Perfect.

Trigger Warnings (possible spoilers):
Bullying of Mallory, fairly descriptive

I received a free advance copy of this audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

4/9/2022 - RTC 🤐

4/8/2022 - ALC!!! Squeee!!!!
Profile Image for Alexandraa XX.
705 reviews795 followers
April 23, 2022
I love single parent great love stories like this one❤️❤️❤️😚 And it first start with the hero just can't keep his eyes off the heroine🥺🥺🥺 And the heroine didn't even realize it or even care about what he say after😂

So freakin funny.


But what I don't like is when the hero got few female attention and even have some girl come up to him, and that's only him receiving all of that. The heroine? Freakin zero. That's not fair at all... It's annoying to read that when the hero are the only one who got all of that and the heroine have none😒😒 none. Not even one single guy flirt with her or comes to talk to her😒 PLEASE AUTHORS OUT THERE, MAKE THE HEROINE HAVE GUYS LIKES HER TOO PLEASE😬🥲🥲 Cause that's so rare these days, it's freakin annoying😒😒 Also what I don't like about the story is that when the heroine's daughter was being bullied and being humiliated so publicly, she wants to move to another school but the hero and heroine suggest she doesn't and face her fears by not running away... Wtf. I don't like that at all in my opinion. It would be nice if the hero and heroine mad at the people who bullied her or do something more fair, but nope they didn't. So that's annoying to me.



Back to the story.

The heroine and hero when they first meet and after, the hero really do chase the heroine so bad... At first the hero is so cocky cause the heroine is not what he expected...

“Her voice. It’s honeyed, as my father would say. We shake but she releases before I’m ready to let go. I’m not picking up any interest whatsoever. What’s happening? Come on, I’m using my best material and widest smile.” 😆😆😆😆

He really make sure he have to see her again even he have to lie to her about some party that she and her daughter have to go to😆😆🥺🥺🥺❤️ The hero thought about the heroine many times romantically and sexually and emotionally when they first meet, that's so romantic and hot😂 He can't stop thinking about her🥺 Even before they have s3x, the hero didn't even rush it cause he really want to take as long as the heroine wants to. He never force her... The hero didn't care about the heroine being a single mom, he really wants her so bad and also adores her daughter too. He make sure the daughter who is 12/13 years old is taken care off and help her too.

The story is written well, and no unnecessary childish drama....



When I was reading this, my playlist song is "What about us pink cover by duomo"😁😁



‼️‼️‼️TRIGGER: Bullying, death and violence.

‼️‼️‼️NO SEPARATION AND NO CHEATING.

‼️‼️‼️THE HERO IS POSSESSIVE PROTECTIVE ALPHA MALE. Not over the top possessive... Unfortunately the hero is used to be a manwhor3. But he didn't MENTION the last time he did though...

‼️‼️‼️NO VIRGINS.

‼️‼️‼️THE HEROINE is a single mother, she is little sassy and good person.

‼️‼️‼️NO DRAMA WITH OW AND OM.

‼️‼️‼️LOVE IN FIRST SIGHT.

‼️‼️‼️THE HERO WANTS AND OBSESSED WITH THE HEROINE SOOOO BADLY....

When the hero said i love you for the first time to the heroine, she didn't reply back to him so he said she have to say it back to him cause it's important 🥺🥺 Idk but for me that's so sweet😆

‼️‼️‼️HAPPY ENDING. Engaged😍







👉🏽👉🏽👉🏽Thank you so much for reading my review❤️❤️ For you who loves my review and follow it, THANK YOU SO MUCH. I did not get paid or be told to do a review on a book. I’m here just to write review about a book so i can remember it. Its my honest opinion😚 I didn’t know at first people will find me and follow me and trust me to be honest, I was surprised myself to look at the notifications from people who reach out to me😆 So everything i write down here on a review is based on my personal opinion and based on my true writing. I DID NOT COPY SOMEONE’S REVIEW OR WRITING SKILL because at first when i was using this app for one year i didn’t know how to scroll down on a book and see the reviews from others😂😅🤣 I know, silly me but hey I finally learned my lesson 😛😛😛 Thats why when people assume i copy someone’s review i was like what? Because at first i didn’t know how to use this app properly and i didn’t know how to open someone’s review because for a year i never follow someone or add friends or someone😂😂😂🤣 (I’m laughing so hard) 🤪 AND I NEVER COPY SOMEONE’S REVIEW EVER. IF I WRITE SOMETHING WRONG OR DOESN’T MAKE SENSE PLEASE LET ME KNOW AND BE NICE OKAY. 👈🏽����🏽👈🏽✋🏽✋🏽


I have a disclaimer down bellow if you have negative thoughts about my review😙😙😙



🌐🌐🌐➡️↘️⬇️➡️This is my own personal thoughts and opinion about the book so if thats not sit right with you or you feel I’m not being fair blablabla, please know that everybody in this world have their own different things that they like and don’t like. It may not be the same thing with you but thats okay because i am my own person and you cannot control me or tell me what to do. For example; i put ketchup (tomato sauce) on my fried chicken. You think that’s disgusting? For me its not and i’ve been eating it like that for many many years. You tell me to put another sauce and see if i like that better? I already did many many times in years but i still like the way i like it. It’s called differences between me and you and billions people in this world😊 be open minded😙 I respect people’s opinions about my opinions but in the end of the day if i say I don’t like it or i do like it, its up to me and its on me. And in the end of the day i always liked and show my respect to books and people’s opinions on books whenever that book is good or not good in my opinion 😊 Respect people’s opinions guys😙😙 I don’t want to write this down because its not really my thing to do it. To like address something like this when obviously i know the people who’s been reading my reviews many times and all the time, they are smart enough to understand and respect other people’s opinions no matter what their opinions on book or their point of view 😙😙 am i right? 💕 also there are people even though i already write “this book is different because i have my own taste of book” those people still comment my taste is this and that when HELLO… everybody have their own thoughts on books and what they want to read… why i read it then? I read it and give it a review because i have to read a book to give it a review… why not read the description book to understand before I’m going to read it? Hello just in case you haven’t notice, description books can be tricky because they write this amazing things about a book but turns out the story is so toxic. Maybe for me its toxic but not for you? YES HELLO THATS WHY US HUMAN BEING HAVE OUR DIFFERENCES, WHAT I LIKE IT DOESN’T MEAN YOU WILL LIKE IT AND EITHER WAY TOO. why i still write the review then if i just don’t like a book? Because I CAN and i want to, you cannot tell me what to do and not what to do🤪 if you still wants to be negative and be karens about my review on book after all of what i just write, i will never acknowledge you and simply ignore you because its not that hard🙏 I won’t respond to negativity comments🙏🏼🙏🏼 DON’T ASK ME AGAIN ABOUT WHY NOT RESPONDING TO YOUR NEGATIVE COMMENTS BECAUSE I ALREADY SAY IT HERE AND I WON’T BE EXPLAINING AGAIN BECAUSE WE’RE NOT CHILDREN SO ITS NOT HARD FOR YOU AN ADULT TO UNDERSTAND😌😌 YES MY REVIEW IS LONG BUT YOU READ IT ANYWAY AND ITS FINE ACTUALLY I CAN WRITE AS LONG AS I LIKE😎 YES MY GRAMMAR IS BAD SOMETIMES AND MAYBE ALL THE TIME BUT LUCKILY MANY PEOPLE CAN UNDERSTAND WHAT I’M SAYING🤪 ⬅️↖️↕️⬅️↩️⤴️
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews128 followers
Want to read
July 9, 2020
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/9/2020)! 🎁
Profile Image for book bruin.
1,536 reviews355 followers
June 9, 2018
The Curve is a short and quick single parent/sports romance read. It revolves around baseball catcher Atticus Swift and single parent Charlotte Bay. I really enjoyed all the characters, including all the members of the Swift family (OMG - Grandma Birdie's bathroom horror story! LOL) There is some instalust/love between Atticus and Charlotte initially, but I liked that the characters then took some time to get to know each other. I also appreciated that Charlotte (for better or for worse) always put the needs and happiness of her daughter first. The book is a light and sexy read overall, but it does deal with teenage bullying and touches on the perils of social media. I thought it was handled very gracefully, however, and leaves readers with a positive/hopeful resolution. The epilogue was perfect and had me swooning and grinning like a fool. I'm excited to see where the author takes this series, and I'm hoping we will see Brick's story soon!
Profile Image for Teresa Lara.
3,483 reviews53 followers
June 17, 2018
loved Charlotte and Atticus amazing beautiful loving book.So uplifting can't wait till book 2
Profile Image for bella rhys (semi-hiatus).
512 reviews9 followers
April 17, 2022


Sweet, short and provided all the feels!

(Audio Review)
This is a single mum and sports star romance centring around Atticus and Charlotte. Atticus is the famous catcher in his baseball team and Charlotte is the single mum, whom at the beginning doesn’t even know a thing about baseball. There’s instant attraction between both parties at the beginning, but they both lead such different lives, so getting together would be very complicated.

(What I liked about the book) Atticus’ characterisation was unexpected, but I love it. I loved how he loved Charlotte and took care of her. I also loved his new found friendship with her daughter, Mallory. Their friendship came together very authentically.

I was especially impressed with how Mallory’s issues were handled in the book. Although the book is mostly low angst, it also dealt with some heavier topics surrounding Mallory’s bullying both online and in school. This didn’t just affect Mallory and Charlotte, but it also affected how Atticus would fit into the family.

Honestly, the entire relationship between Atticus’ family and Charlotte’s family was adorable; I loved how the entire family came together. The banter was such fun. This book was honestly just soo cute.

This is the point where I talk about my dislikes and any thing I feel could have been improved. But, I don’t even think I have any dislikes about this book. It was honestly perfect (it even got upgraded to my favs bookshelves).

I really, really loved the narration. Narrated by Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell, both narrators did an excellent job. The voices were perfect, I honestly could listen to them all day. The complemented each other very well.

Overall, I throughly enjoyed this book. It provided all the feels and I highly recommend it, especially the audiobook version.

I was provided a free advanced audio copy of this book. However, all opinions shared are my honest thoughts about this book.

Profile Image for Jen (That's What I'm Talking About).
1,743 reviews313 followers
April 27, 2022
Atticus is a player in more than one way: he’s the star catcher for the Memphis Mavericks and he always gets attention from the ladies. When he sees Charlotte at a fan event, he knows he wants her. But Charlotte doesn’t fall for his moves, she’s a single mom of a teen and doesn’t have time for some fling.

The Curve is a sweet romance that moves quickly, but gives listeners all the feels. Atticus and Charlotte share a strong attraction as well as some common interests, other than baseball. The pair develops a friendship, and it’s Charolette’s daughter who helps bring the pair together because of her blossoming friendship with Atticus and his family. At first I was put off by Atticus’s aggressiveness and player attitude, but he won me over quickly because it is evident that he is truly interested in Charlotte as a person, including caring about her daughter.

It seemed evident from the start that Charlotte’s daughter would also provide the conflict for the relationship. Mallory has significant facial scarring, and kids can be cruel. Luckily, Atticus and Charlotte work together and through the conflict towards their HEA. I enjoyed Mallory’s story, but was thrown off by one small detail. Mallory, like many teens, wants social media; however, her choice of Facebook and Twitter are NOT what teens use. Kids are on Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat…

Narration: The story is shared via the alternating first person POVs of Charlotte and Atticus, with M Mitchell (MM) narrating Charolette’s POV and J Arden (JA) narrating Atticus’s POV. MM has strong voice, slightly deep and confident. MM infuses her performance with the weariness of being a single mom of a 13 YO. She also does a great job with Mallory… pitching the voice higher and sounding like a teen. MM pitches her voice lower voice for males and does a very good job sounding like a cast of many. JA has pleasant neutral narrator/Atticus voice which is easy to listen to. He moderately alters dialogue for gender and age. While is females are slightly higher pitched, they aren’t overly distinguishable, and I really wasn’t a fan.

In the end, The Curve was an enjoyable listen. Atticus and Charlotte’s romance is quick, but not simple. I enjoyed watching them get to know one another. I also appreciate that Mallory isn’t just a background character who shows up randomly, but rather an integral piece of the story.

My Ratings:
Story: B
Narration:
MM: B+
JA: B-

Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provide by Home Cooked Books
Profile Image for Patty.
5,145 reviews55 followers
April 19, 2022
The Curve
Swift Series, Book 1
By: Leslie Pike
Narrated by: Joe Arden, Maxine Mitchell

Leslie Pike writes romances that make it impossible not to fall in love with the hero. Just in time for the start of baseball season, this gem is released and I am totally in love with Atticus Swift! Yes, even injured, the playboy has moves. And when he sees single mother, Charlotte at an event, he is immediately taken with her. She does whatever it takes to keep the man at arm's length, but he eventually worms his way into her life along with her daughter, Mallory. And our fun begins. Atticus is sweet and caring, and despite his reputation, has truly won my heart. Charlotte is guarded and rightfully so. I love her mom instincts and how she puts Mallory above everything. Mallory has had it tough, and the relationship she is forging with Atticus is just what she needs. Pike writes the story with a compassion for Mallory, but doesn't take it too easy. It feels real and just the kind of story perfect for a weekend listen. I love it!

Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell once again use their incredible chemistry to create Atticus and Charlotte. Atticus is a little arrogant, but Arden is able to keep him in line with his inflections, keeping him real. Charlotte is guarded and Mitchell brings her in this way with her nuances, but we are able to hear the change by the changes in her voice. What a team, it is a wonderful listen.
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,223 reviews219 followers
April 18, 2022
5 Star Review The Curve (Swift Series #1) by Leslie Pike

AUDIO REVIEW:
Leslie Pike is a new author to me and I am not sure how I have not come across her books before. The narration by Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell was spot on for the characters in my opinion and they did a wonderful job in bringing the characters they portrayed to life for me. Their voices are easy to listen to and I couldn’t help but be drawn into their performances.

Although not a long book, Ms.Pike certainly packed a lot into The Curve. This is baseball catcher Atticus Swift and single mum Charlotte Bay’s story and it ticked the boxes for me.

The characters were easy to relate to and I admired the way the author handled the topic of teenage bullying as Mallory is subjected to it thanks to the burns she received in a fireworks accident. The secondary characters such as Grandma Birdie just added an additional layer to my enjoyment of this story.

I particularly loved how Atticus included Mallory. He didn’t just fall for Charlotte, he fell for both of them and that just made my heart melt. From start to finish I was invested in their story and look forward to reading/listening to more in this series.
Profile Image for Jenn Amy.
910 reviews82 followers
April 21, 2022
“She’s the curve ball I wasn’t expecting. One pitched so skillfully I didn’t see it until it already changed the game.”

The Curve is a sweet and sexy sports romance by Leslie Pike that I devoured in one sitting. The story and characters captivated me from the first chapter. Atticus is confident, sexy and strong and Charlotte is a devoted single mom. The moment Atticus meets Charlotte, he knows what he wants, and he goes after it. I love how hard and fast he falls for her and her daughter Mallory. Atticus’ approach with Mallory was tender and sweet. I loved the special connection they form, so honest and caring. Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell are always fantastic together. The emotion and passion they bring to each and every story they narrate is perfection, and The Curve was no exception!
Profile Image for Gabba.
303 reviews24 followers
May 3, 2020
2.5
Romance entre una mega estrella del béisbol (obvio, un putigolfo hasta que) y una adorable madre soltera que no sabe que es una diosa para la visual humana. Con un elevado toque de mala suerte, un cuarto de inseguridades, pero tan buena.
Fin.
Chiste, con un cortito y al pie (?) ¡Como la historia, Mabel!
description
Hay poco de todo, en versión little bit, hasta los detalles son escasos. La autora no ahonda demasiado en ellos, tampoco se detiene en armar algo rebuscado. Visitó los estudios de Televisa, pero en esta oportunidad el melodrama vulgar no le copó.
Es temprano para delirar. ¿Está drogada, señora?

Pasen por el blog para para seguir leyendo esta especie de reseña, GRACIAS.
description
Profile Image for Jess.
3,186 reviews27 followers
February 8, 2021
DNF

I could not get into this one. I finally gave up a little into chapter 4. I don’t know why I couldn’t get into this one since I usually enjoy single mother’s and sport hotties...
Profile Image for Bette.
3,306 reviews23 followers
April 10, 2022
A Charming & Amazingly Delightful Story & Listen🎧

The Curve
Swift Series, Book 1
By: Leslie Pike
Narrated by: Joe Arden, Maxine Mitchell

This is an amazingly delightful sports romance novel, and I loved everything about it, from Leslie Pike’s wonderful writing style to the fabulous characters and storylines she created to the perfect cast narrators who bring it all to life from the pages to the ears. The story drew me in right from the start, grabbing my attention and captivating it the entire book. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with, they are likable and easy to care about too. Atticus Swift, a catcher for the Memphis Mavericks, is out of the game while he is recuperating from an injury. He is out at an event when he sees someone he is interested in meeting and tries to get her attention, but she basically ignores him. Atticus is used to women falling at his feet and getting what he wants, which makes him intrigue her even more. He asks his brother Brick who she is, and he tells him she is his tailer and hairdresser and that he needs to stay away. But that does not stop him and once he meets her, he wants to spend more time with her. Charlotte Bay is a single mom of a thirteen-year-old daughter, Mallory, who has not had the easiest of times after an accident left her scarred both physically and emotionally. Charlotte has done the best she could with her daughter and it upsets her to watch how she went from a carefree and confident girl to a shy and insecure one. Atticus remembers what it was like to be young and insecure and he recognizes that look in her eyes, so he tries to coach her out of it, but she still struggles. I loved how everything played out in this book, it was great to watch Atticus and Charlotte’s relationship grow and more into something deep and loving. It was also great to watch how they handled things with Charlotte, loved how Ms. Pike handled it and kept it real. This entertaining and beautifully plotted romance novel has the perfect balance of drama, charm, heartfelt and emotional moments and some loving ones, too. Leslie Pike, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.

🎧📚🎧 And for the amazing narration, Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell are entertaining storytellers and versatile voice artists. They have a complete understanding of the characters they portrayed, giving each a voice that is a perfect fit for that character’s persona, sounding believable and just as I pictured the character to sound. Joe Arden, is a natural playing, a swoon worthy baseball player. Maxine Mitchell’s Charlotte is spot on, grasping her strength and determination, even her fierceness as a single mom. They set the perfect tone for the story, capture all the characters’ emotions and projects them into their performance, making you feel every single one. These mega talented narrators make a great team and their narration enhances an already amazing story to another level. Thank you for another fabulous listen.
Profile Image for Lynn Reynolds.
1,698 reviews39 followers
April 24, 2022
Rating: 4.5 Stars

I was excited to get this audiobook. I love the author and then having two of my favorite narrators is just a plus. Narrators always do what I can’t - bring the author’s characters to life. This combination made it very easy to get lost in Ms. Pike’s world.

Atticus is a man who knows how to use his charisma to his advantage. Charlotte doesn’t seem to be impressed by his best moves. I like the addition of someone who is very important to her. Now that baseball has started, this is the perfect time to be listening to their story. See, you could have the story playing in your ears as you watch a little league game or even a major or minor league game.

When reading a book, my mind tries to put some inflection into the words that I read but the narrators do a much better job than I ever could. Mr. Arden and Ms. Mitchell make me feel as if I am a part of the scenes. It’s like I’m a spectator to what is unfolding. At one point, Mr. Arden gave me a chuckle as he imitates both kids and Grandma Birdie. Ms. Mitchell does a great job with changing her voice so we can picture what Mallory is feeling as well as Charlotte.

Our author has created a book that will have you wanting to relax – even if it’s just for a little while. It’s a story that could be anyone’s reality. The characters have feelings that any one of us could have. She shows how tough it can be for a sports celebrity – just like us normal people. But family helps to ground them. We even get to see a teenager navigate her life with the help of two people who care about her. The author’s ending has me looking forward to what The Closer may have in store for me.

I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads.
2,288 reviews20 followers
April 13, 2022
**Audiobook Review**

“The Curve” is a fun, flirty, steamy instalove romance with lots of humor and heartfelt moments. Atticus and Charlotte captured my interest from the very beginning and I loved their story,

Atticus is a star catcher in the MLB but has been sidelined due to an injury. At a charity event, he spots Charlotte and instantly becomes attracted to her. Charlotte is a single mom whose focus is her daughter, Mallory, and making sure that she is okay and comfortable after a terrible situation left her with some scars on her face. But Atticus is not deterred by this at all and uses all of his charm towards Charlotte and Mallory because he feels like there is a future with the both of them in his life.

I was utterly charmed by Atticus from the very first chapter. I loved his personality and how genuine he is. He’s a no BS kind of guy and that is one of my favorite qualities in him. A lot of guys would be hesitant to try and have a relationship with a woman who has a teenage daughter but Atticus was all in from the beginning. Charlotte was also a favorite of mine. I loved how she was protective and caring of her daughter and was always willing to do what she needed for her. Atticus and Charlotte’s chemistry was undeniable and super steamy.

Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell narrated the book and they were the perfect choices. I love listening to confident, athletic, funny Joe. Maxine was perfect, as per the norm. She’s always so great at bringing all the emotions to life. I’m never disappointed listening to a Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell audiobook.
Profile Image for Amy.
1,489 reviews35 followers
April 13, 2022
I am a sucker for a sports romance, especially baseball, and The Curve was absolutely delightful!! This was my first book by Leslie Pike and it won’t be my last. This charming sports romance was sweetly adorable and downright swoonworthy.

Charlotte is a devoted single mother who always puts her daughter first. When Atticus spots her across a crowded room, he’s instantly drawn to her and her daughter. Despite her best efforts, Charlotte is unable to resist Atticus’ charm and soon finds herself falling under his spell.

The effortless chemistry and playfulness between Charlotte and Atticus was so much fun to read. They got to know each other first before they became intimate and took the next steps in their relationships. I loved how supportive and in awe Atticus was of Charlotte and Mallory. He immediately steps up to become the man that they need in their lives. Together these two could tackle any problem that came their way.

Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell narrated the audio of this story and they were perfection. They made me fall in love with the story. Every nuance and inflection in their voice stirred up the emotions the characters were feeling and made me feel like I was living the story.

Full of so much charm, heat, and heart and low on the angst, this feel-good story will have you grinning from ear to ear and will warm your heart. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Janine Birt.
446 reviews14 followers
April 18, 2022
First in series and I look forward to reading more.

Atticus is a famous baseball player recovering from an injury when he sees her. It's an instant draw, a pull to meet and know more about her.

Charlotte is a single mom of a 13 year old girl. That's her world and purpose for being, her daughter Mallory. However, Mallory is self conscious about her scars and Charlotte is determined to make life the best it can be for her no matter what it takes.

What I love about this story is that Atticus pursues the mom and the daughter at the same time. He builds rapport with Mallory and has her help him win over her mom. From that first moment, he know these 2 ladies are special and he will never be the same. He wants to be part of their lives, their family and bring them into his crazy ridiculous family at the same time.

The audio for this one is about 4.5 hours and it's performed beautifully by Joe Arden & Maxine Mitchell. Joe is all kinds of goofy but sincere as Atticus tries to woo Charlotte, he's righteously angry and protective over Mallory and her wounded spirit, then there's dirty talking carnally tempting Atticus... all facets of this character are brought to life in my ears. Maxine is just amazing as Charlotte. The emotional range as she explains her history to Atticus, the love and tenderness when she cares for Mallory, the pain and anguish when things go wrong. These performances broke my heart at times, filled me with joy in others and made me cry with all the emotions the words spoken by these artists made me feel.

Trigger warning: This story deals with teen bullying. It's a small fraction of the story but it's an important part of the character arcs. As someone who was bullied at a young age, I felt the realness in how this was presented. It touched me deeply. I wish that anyone in a similar situation is able to find the same levels of support that exist in this story.

I was given a copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for J.
4,081 reviews21 followers
April 26, 2022
A beautifully well written, perfectly narrated romance this is sure to please any romance reader. A sports themed romance but it's so much more. Our main characters are Atticus Swift famous playboy, baseball player and Charlotte Bay, single mom to teen Mallory. All three of these characters are leads in their own right. Atticus is a great character who owns his playboy past but still has the manners and charm of any proper southern boy and falls hard and fast for Charlotte who as any good single mother should, puts her child first and foremost. The dynamic Atticus brings to their lives is both good and poses new challenges and I adore Atticus' extended family. A HEA that will warm your heart - this is a great listen. Dual narration by Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell was an absolute delight and they truly brought these characters to life in my mind. I can't wait for more from Pike and I'll be on the look out for other books from these narrators too!

I received a free copy of this book at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
1,250 reviews4 followers
April 11, 2022
Leslie Pike has knocked it out of the ballpark with this charming, sports romance. This story is not without drama.
Atticus is known as a player on and off the field. He has an instant connection with Charlotte, a single mother with a teenage daughter. Mallory is withdrawn and bullied , because of burn scars on her face.
Charlotte will always put her daughter first. She isn't sure if she is ready for a relationship especially with Atticus.
Atticus is out of his comfort zone by dating a woman with a daughter. He realizes Charlotte is the one for him. How can he convince her that he is in it for the long haul and want them both?
I love how this story touches on the subject of bullying, in life and social media.
Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell narration told this story with so much emotion. I felt all the anguish, angst, love, fun of every character. Amazing narration. I was gifted this audio book and so happy to share my honest review.
Profile Image for Maria Fernanda G Lechuga.
264 reviews2 followers
April 30, 2022
Audiobook Review
Narrated by Joe Arden and Maxin Mitchell

I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook version, and I really enjoyed it, the story was good, great pace, it doesn't drag much, and little drama is involved. I loved that what started as a challenge and something just for "fun" for Atticus it soon turn into something he wanted more that a good time and he starts doing everything he can to make Charlotte give them both a chance to explore what they can have together. Charlotte is a strong and independent woman and I liked that she doesn't let Atticus fame or "scandals" affect her and doesn't jump into unnecessary conclusions making drama of it, instead she just asks Atticus about it, being able to make their relationship work and growth.

The narration was amazing, both Joe Arden and Maxin Mitchell did a fantastic job with this story, they're amazing narrators that never disappoint with their performances.

Profile Image for Lisa Stinson.
1,381 reviews19 followers
April 11, 2022
Audiobook review: Maxine Mitchell and Joe Arden were amazing as always in bringing Charlotte and Atticus’s romance to life. I absolutely love these two narrators together because you know you are getting the very best.

Atticus was thrown a major curveball when Charlotte and Mallory walked into his life. He thought he was happy with his life as it was. He didn’t realize what he was missing until it was right in front of him. Mallory was a huge fan of the Maverick’s but Charlotte didn’t like anything about baseball. She also didn’t fall over herself to talk with him or go out with him either. This was a total change from what Atticus was used to.

Charlotte was doing amazing as a single mom. She definitely didn’t need the attention from a famous baseball player. But Atticus had a way of slowly tearing down her walls and showing her he wanted something more with her and her daughter. He wanted to be good enough for them. While at first she was leery of eating him, she began to see that he was serious about both of them.

I loved how Atticus was with Mallory. He was a father figure she needed even if she wanted to fight against it. Meeting Charlotte and Mallory really changed Atticus for the better.

Definitely want to check out the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Lisa.
3,788 reviews21 followers
April 13, 2022
What a wonderful story! While it is baseball related it also has a lovely blend of goodness and charm. The characters are very realisitc! I felt like they could be friends or neighbors. I think my favorite is Atticus. Not because he is insufferably hot or charming but his kindness is his hidden gem. They way he charms Charlotte to do many things is adorable. He really pulls out all the stops. Then how he acts with her daughter…so kind. Charlotte was a goodie because she did not immediately roll over for him. She stood her ground..I admired that about her.

The secondary characters are fun and entertaining. Mostly its Atticus’ family and bit are there some characters that live in his family. They have got stories and made me laugh.

I did listen to this in audio. Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell did an outstanding job! They really brought the characters to life. My only complaint about this book is it too short! I want more of these characters in my ears!
Profile Image for Favey_Listens.
930 reviews14 followers
April 28, 2022
This novella is sweet, fun, steamy, and the perfect fit! The Curve is book 1 in the Swift series and features Atticus and Charlotte, who are most definitely not a typical match. He is the handsome sexy athlete with corresponding Player status, so he is thrown way off kilter when he falls hard for a single mom and all the feels happen. She is a single mom with a teen girl who is quite fragile, so she is fiercely protective and has centered her whole world around Mallory and has no clue about sports, let alone baseball players who are famously single. It’s a big change to even consider what she might want when Atticus sets his sights on her and shows her what life could be like. While there are some potentially heavy topics (bullying and past trauma for the daughter) this is low angst romance with plenty of steam and heat. Leslie cranked the heat up super quick with some lines I can’t include in a review, but they are balanced out with truly moving scenes to deliver a perfect mix of sweet and dirty that really gripped my attention and swept me away with the story! The Curve is my first Leslie Pike listen, but I have added more audiobooks to my TBL list for sure - including the rest of this series!

Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchel are both fantastic, and the perfect pairing. They deliver excellent performances to bring Atticus, Charlotte, and all of the other characters to life. I thoroughly enjoyed this quick listen!
Profile Image for Rebecca.
202 reviews
April 28, 2022
The Curve is a short and sweet sports romance written by Leslie Pike. It centers around Atticus and Charlotte, who is a single mom to Mallory. I love that Atticus had to put in effort to win Charlotte over and not just depend on his sports star status and good looks. Charlotte is used to putting herself last to make sure Mallory is comfortable and happy, but I love that Charlotte did something for herself and found love.

The narration was excellent! Joe Arden and Maxine Mitchell mesh so well together. Maxine brings so much emotion and authenticity to the characters that I truly feel it when I listen to her.

This is a great listen if want a short story, sports romance and HEA!
Profile Image for Tricia S..
868 reviews14 followers
April 11, 2022
Atticus meets Charlotte and it's love at first sight with a kid. Atticus is a famous baseball catcher and Charlotte is a seamstress plus a single mother. I liked both main characters. I like that they weren't in bed in the next chapter, I liked that they got to know each other. This book was short and sweet, fast paced of course. This is my first book my Leslie Pike and I thought it was great. I can't wait for the next book. These two narrators just seem to fit so well together. Joe Arden's voice is kinda dreamy. They made listening to this audio such a pleasure.
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