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Out of the Park #2
Sliding Home
FROM AWARD-WINNING ROMANCE AUTHOR JAQUELINE SNOWE Book two in the Out of the Park series Two years ago, she shut the door in his face. Now, he's opening it... Michelle Benning is determined to pursue her dreams and escape her past. This means working two jobs and going to school, which leaves no time for relationships. So when the one guy she never got over shows up two years after their fling, she'll avoid him at all costs. No problem. Famous baseball player Brooks Madsen knows there's more than just attraction between him and Michelle, no matter how much she tries to fight it. But for every step closer he gets to her heart, she forces him two steps back...and Brooks intends to find out why. Brooks finds her stubborn and she finds him difficult, yet the sparks between them burst into red-hot flames. But when a figure from her past returns, Michelle's forced to make a tough decision, one that threatens any second chance at love that she and Brooks might have...
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2020
116 people are currently reading
473 people want to read
About the author
Jaqueline Snowe
37 books1,240 followersJaqueline Snowe lives in Arizona where the "dry heat" really isn't that bad. She prefers drinking coffee all hours of the day and snacking on anything that has peanut butter or chocolate. She is the mother to two dogs who don’t realize they aren’t humans and a = mom to the sweetest boy. She is an avid reader and writer of romances and tends to write about athletes. Her husband works for an MLB team (not a player, lol) so she knows more about baseball than any human ever should.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
May 18, 2025
ARC REVIEW
5/5 ⭐️ 2/5🌶️
I just want to say THANK YOU Jaqueline for writing this!! This literally slid so close to home 💗💗
Michelle and Brooks are both going through so much trauma throughout the book and I resonated so much with Michelle’s character and dealing with family who are addicts. I honestly devoured this whole book less than 24 hours and was so absorbed in their story.The plot was so good and throw in the perfect amount of spice…LOVED!!!!
When she finally goes to his apartment.. let me just say the spice was *chefs kiss* 😏🔥
If you love…
-Black Cat/ Golden Retriever
-Opposites Attract
-Second Chance
-Banter
-“Mine”
-Baseball Romance
READ THIS BOOK!! ❤️
Thank you Jaqueline for the ARC!!! You have been a Go To Author for me for the past year and I can’t wait to see what else you write 💗☺️
5/5 ⭐️ 2/5🌶️
I just want to say THANK YOU Jaqueline for writing this!! This literally slid so close to home 💗💗
Michelle and Brooks are both going through so much trauma throughout the book and I resonated so much with Michelle’s character and dealing with family who are addicts. I honestly devoured this whole book less than 24 hours and was so absorbed in their story.The plot was so good and throw in the perfect amount of spice…LOVED!!!!
When she finally goes to his apartment.. let me just say the spice was *chefs kiss* 😏🔥
If you love…
-Black Cat/ Golden Retriever
-Opposites Attract
-Second Chance
-Banter
-“Mine”
-Baseball Romance
READ THIS BOOK!! ❤️
Thank you Jaqueline for the ARC!!! You have been a Go To Author for me for the past year and I can’t wait to see what else you write 💗☺️
December 7, 2020
I had a great time reading this! The romance was sweet, there was some danger and drama, and of course a happy ending. We also got to see Gideon and Fiona from the first book and I love seeing previous characters be happy and moving forward with their lives.
Michelle is a great main character, she's brave and tough and driven. She's going to be a nurse and not let her terrible family get in the way. Her only downfall is that she keeps everyone at arm's length, never getting serious with a man so that she won't get her heart broken. Then Brooks comes along and he's sweet and funny and loves Michelle. I thought they had great chemistry and their banter was adorable.
Brooks' relationship with his mom was so amazing, I love seeing a man care for his family. I felt heartbroken for him that she didn't always remember him and his brother, but happy that he did all he could to help her. Michelle frustrated me when she hid her family issues and tried to deal with it all by herself. Everyone needs friends and help and she was too stubborn for her own good. Thankfully, she did wise up and things worked out.
The ending of this was nice, it wrapped up Michelle and Brooks well. I hope there's another book for Brigham, I'd love to see the woman who challenges him.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Michelle is a great main character, she's brave and tough and driven. She's going to be a nurse and not let her terrible family get in the way. Her only downfall is that she keeps everyone at arm's length, never getting serious with a man so that she won't get her heart broken. Then Brooks comes along and he's sweet and funny and loves Michelle. I thought they had great chemistry and their banter was adorable.
Brooks' relationship with his mom was so amazing, I love seeing a man care for his family. I felt heartbroken for him that she didn't always remember him and his brother, but happy that he did all he could to help her. Michelle frustrated me when she hid her family issues and tried to deal with it all by herself. Everyone needs friends and help and she was too stubborn for her own good. Thankfully, she did wise up and things worked out.
The ending of this was nice, it wrapped up Michelle and Brooks well. I hope there's another book for Brigham, I'd love to see the woman who challenges him.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2020
This was an enjoyable second chance romance. Michelle and Brooks had a past romance. When they meet up again by chance, neither of them is prepared for the feelings that are still present under the surface. Michelle grew up with a difficult family life and never felt deserving of love. Brooks was dealing with his own personal family heartbreak. Together, they can support one another and ultimately find love...if they will just let it in.
A meaningful and heartwarming read.
A meaningful and heartwarming read.
April 28, 2025
More 4 1/2 🌟
This was a beautiful heartwarming story which takes you on an emotional journey. This is a second chance baseball romance, there wasn’t a lot of baseball in it as this one is more about the current situations both main characters are in. Michelle and Brooks reunite for a wedding and this story follows their journey to their happy ever after. This was an enjoyable read with a little drama and was a pleasure to read. I received a complementary copy from the author.
This was a beautiful heartwarming story which takes you on an emotional journey. This is a second chance baseball romance, there wasn’t a lot of baseball in it as this one is more about the current situations both main characters are in. Michelle and Brooks reunite for a wedding and this story follows their journey to their happy ever after. This was an enjoyable read with a little drama and was a pleasure to read. I received a complementary copy from the author.
April 24, 2025
Ugh allllllll of her books are absolutely amazing. I foam at the mouth with every new one I read.
Brooks and Michelle are so perfectly imperfect that it seems so real life. Them working on trust and learning to be just themselves while being together is an important representation for individuality in relationships!
Great story, great characters, and a great sports romance!
Brooks and Michelle are so perfectly imperfect that it seems so real life. Them working on trust and learning to be just themselves while being together is an important representation for individuality in relationships!
Great story, great characters, and a great sports romance!
May 2, 2025
My favorite of Jaqueline’s to date 🤩 Michelle and Brooks had insane chemistry and the push and pull was so frustrating but so goooood. I love the subplot behind Michelle it made her multidimensional and Brooks’ subplot made him endearing and comforting. All in all a BANGER from Miss Jaqueline!!
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Thank you to Jaqueline and her team for the ARC opportunity!
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Thank you to Jaqueline and her team for the ARC opportunity!
May 19, 2025
This is a standalone story, but has some ties to the overall world and characters in other books. I did want a bit more build up to the second chance meeting and some of the backstory to be a bit more fleshed out. But this was an enjoyable read for sure.
Brooks is a solid character who is in a tough position in his home life with his mom’s ongoing health problems and then add in a girl who will not be pinned down in a relationship. He was lacking so much stability and support, so it made me kind of mad how much Michelle would push him away.
Michelle has her own troubles with family, their addiction issues, and legal troubles. She definitely feels like she can’t depend on anyone and has to do everything alone, which was sad to see.
There was definitely drama with Michelle’s family, but I did think some of that wrapped up a little too quickly or was maybe introduced too late. Between needing the space to build on a second chance relationship, we also had a lot of family struggles on both sides that are deeply emotional and traumatic.
I would have also liked a bit more of the sports side, especially since baseball is a favorite sport of mine!
Another fun read by Snowe and I would happily read more. Thank you to the author for my review copy!
Brooks is a solid character who is in a tough position in his home life with his mom’s ongoing health problems and then add in a girl who will not be pinned down in a relationship. He was lacking so much stability and support, so it made me kind of mad how much Michelle would push him away.
Michelle has her own troubles with family, their addiction issues, and legal troubles. She definitely feels like she can’t depend on anyone and has to do everything alone, which was sad to see.
There was definitely drama with Michelle’s family, but I did think some of that wrapped up a little too quickly or was maybe introduced too late. Between needing the space to build on a second chance relationship, we also had a lot of family struggles on both sides that are deeply emotional and traumatic.
I would have also liked a bit more of the sports side, especially since baseball is a favorite sport of mine!
Another fun read by Snowe and I would happily read more. Thank you to the author for my review copy!
November 23, 2020
I enjoyed this one and the friendships we get to see. The relationship between Michelle and Brooks was rocky most of the time. Brooks and his plan to woo Michelle was at times funny. I did like him more than Michelle who was irritating at times. Lots of steamy scenes. I did not read Book #1 but was not lost in the story.
November 23, 2020
4.5⭐️
The story of Brooks and Michelle started 2 years ago when they had a fling, bu Michelle ended it suddenly without explanation, slamming the door in Brooks’s face.
Now at the engagement party of Fiona, Michelle’s best friend, and Gideon, Brooks’s teammate, they see each other again. And while Brooks wants answers, he also wants to see if he can have something more with her again, since no girl since her has made him feel like this. But Michelle resists at first, she left him bc she began to feel more for him and that went against her rules, which assure her that she can achieve her goals without distractions. Furthermore, her family has not made it easy for her to trust and open her heart to others.
But Michelle ends up giving into the attraction and sleeping with him. Brooks is determined to develop a connection with her, although at first it has to be friendship.
Brooks’s fear that Michelle will break his heart again, Michelle’s fear of allowing herself to be happy, are among other things, the biggest problems that this couple have to face to get their HEA.
I don’t give it 5⭐️bc the beginning of their relationship is barely mentioned in this book. I guess I’ll have to read the first book to see if there I see how everything started between them.
The story of Brooks and Michelle started 2 years ago when they had a fling, bu Michelle ended it suddenly without explanation, slamming the door in Brooks’s face.
Now at the engagement party of Fiona, Michelle’s best friend, and Gideon, Brooks’s teammate, they see each other again. And while Brooks wants answers, he also wants to see if he can have something more with her again, since no girl since her has made him feel like this. But Michelle resists at first, she left him bc she began to feel more for him and that went against her rules, which assure her that she can achieve her goals without distractions. Furthermore, her family has not made it easy for her to trust and open her heart to others.
But Michelle ends up giving into the attraction and sleeping with him. Brooks is determined to develop a connection with her, although at first it has to be friendship.
Brooks’s fear that Michelle will break his heart again, Michelle’s fear of allowing herself to be happy, are among other things, the biggest problems that this couple have to face to get their HEA.
I don’t give it 5⭐️bc the beginning of their relationship is barely mentioned in this book. I guess I’ll have to read the first book to see if there I see how everything started between them.
April 22, 2025
ARC REVIEW
This book was so cute!!!omg I’m literally hard core swooning over brooks and Mitch! Like how adorable were they?? I mean brooks literally never forgot about Mitch and the ought about her everyday for TWO YEARS! Like I want a man who will not give up on me like that. And the way that he shoved himself into her life every chance he got?? SWOON! Like the whole golfing scene was so hot and literally to die for. This relationship was so cute and I honestly loved this story so much! I was so mad at her siblings and honestly wanted to just punch her dad in the face after that twist! This book was honestly so good, but where was the baseball??! Like this was supposed to be a baseball romance and there was not ONE scene of baseball. And brooks was just transferred to this new team and they didn’t have one practice?? Idk that was really weird to me especially after she saw him on tv. I also wish we would have gotten more of them as a couple bc I feel like we didn’t get very much of that. Other than that I really liked this book and can’t wait to read more!
This book was so cute!!!omg I’m literally hard core swooning over brooks and Mitch! Like how adorable were they?? I mean brooks literally never forgot about Mitch and the ought about her everyday for TWO YEARS! Like I want a man who will not give up on me like that. And the way that he shoved himself into her life every chance he got?? SWOON! Like the whole golfing scene was so hot and literally to die for. This relationship was so cute and I honestly loved this story so much! I was so mad at her siblings and honestly wanted to just punch her dad in the face after that twist! This book was honestly so good, but where was the baseball??! Like this was supposed to be a baseball romance and there was not ONE scene of baseball. And brooks was just transferred to this new team and they didn’t have one practice?? Idk that was really weird to me especially after she saw him on tv. I also wish we would have gotten more of them as a couple bc I feel like we didn’t get very much of that. Other than that I really liked this book and can’t wait to read more!
May 1, 2025
officially my new favorite jaqueline book!! i’ve read her central state books so i’m used to the college vibe from her but na from her is so good!!!
i enjoyed michelle & brooks’ story so much! they were both kind of going through it and i liked seeing them navigate their lives and work through their trauma. their journey took some turns but i’m glad they made their way back to each other <3
i really hope jaqueline has plans to rerelease the rest of this series!
thank you jaqueline for the arc!!
i enjoyed michelle & brooks’ story so much! they were both kind of going through it and i liked seeing them navigate their lives and work through their trauma. their journey took some turns but i’m glad they made their way back to each other <3
i really hope jaqueline has plans to rerelease the rest of this series!
thank you jaqueline for the arc!!
May 9, 2025
4 ⭐️ Sliding Home by Jaqueline Snowe is a heartfelt second-chance romance full of fiery chemistry and emotional tension. Michelle is focused on her future—working two jobs and going to school—so when Brooks, a now-famous baseball player and the one guy she never got over, shows up two years after their fling, her instinct is to push him away. But Brooks isn’t giving up so easily. The banter is sharp, the connection is real, and their chemistry is undeniable. My only wish? That it had more baseball!
Huge thank you to Jaqueline Snowe for the ARC!
Huge thank you to Jaqueline Snowe for the ARC!
June 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
I don't really have too many words.
As always, when a book gets me so bad like this one, it was hard to put the book down all month long. i should've read it faster, but i didn't want it to end at the same time.
Jaqueline's style always makes me bawl my eyes out towards the end, and she did it again, i love her and her books so much.
This book was low on baseball but hard on gut-wrenching moments with an angsty subplot that made my heart squeeze more than once.
the end was perfect for Brooks and Michelle ✨️💙
🌶🌶
I don't really have too many words.
As always, when a book gets me so bad like this one, it was hard to put the book down all month long. i should've read it faster, but i didn't want it to end at the same time.
Jaqueline's style always makes me bawl my eyes out towards the end, and she did it again, i love her and her books so much.
This book was low on baseball but hard on gut-wrenching moments with an angsty subplot that made my heart squeeze more than once.
the end was perfect for Brooks and Michelle ✨️💙
October 15, 2020
Super fun story about a commitment phobia woman. Brooks is a super star baseball athlete who realizes fate has stepped in for a fun ride. Sometimes love hits you out of nowhere. The struggles Michelle gone through to pull her life out of the gutter Is realistic. The suspense & conclusion of what happens with her family is great. The other characters like Brigham & Logan make this book relatable. I want more of these friends. Everyone needs to read this.
April 25, 2025
ARC REVIEW: I loved this book so much!! If Goodreads allowed half stars, I would have rated it 4.5! There was 1 small part where I was a little frustrated with the FMC, but other than that, it was PERFECTION! It has a great plot AND character development, the perfect balance of serious, real-life content and fluffy rom-com content, and I’d say 2/5 on the spice level. I’m immediately reading the rest of the books in this series!!
July 1, 2025
thank you for the ARC!
"mine"
"baseball romance"
two characters there for each other as they go through so much growth from their past. second chance love
she's a nurse, strong, determined in so many ways!
he's a baseball player , and cares for his family so much!
this was a great easy read! perfect for summer time!
"mine"
"baseball romance"
two characters there for each other as they go through so much growth from their past. second chance love
she's a nurse, strong, determined in so many ways!
he's a baseball player , and cares for his family so much!
this was a great easy read! perfect for summer time!
May 6, 2025
sliding home arc review!! ⚾️🩺
3.5/5 - I AM A HUGE @jaquelinesnowe FAN!! although this one wasn’t my favorite out of hers- I do have a big appreciation for the character growth in this book. michelle had some of those super relatable moments that made it really sweet when brooks did his best to support her through them. i loved the found family aspect & her relationship with her best friend, fi. jaqueline snowe knows how to write the best mmcs 🤪
3.5/5 - I AM A HUGE @jaquelinesnowe FAN!! although this one wasn’t my favorite out of hers- I do have a big appreciation for the character growth in this book. michelle had some of those super relatable moments that made it really sweet when brooks did his best to support her through them. i loved the found family aspect & her relationship with her best friend, fi. jaqueline snowe knows how to write the best mmcs 🤪
May 4, 2025
4/5 Stars
Tropes: Second Chance Romance, Nursing student x Baseball player
Review: This was a great book, I loved it. I am usually not a fan of second chance romance, but this is making me change my mind. There’s something about reading about two people find and rediscover each other again. I enjoyed watching Michelle work through her trauma and break down her walls. Brooks was a patient man and loved Michelle wholeheartedly. They both came together and created a well written story. I loved working through Michelle’s trauma with her and that plot made an interesting storyline.
PS I also loved seeing Michelle’s relationship with Brigham. I hope he gets a book. I’m excited to read more from this author.
Tropes: Second Chance Romance, Nursing student x Baseball player
Review: This was a great book, I loved it. I am usually not a fan of second chance romance, but this is making me change my mind. There’s something about reading about two people find and rediscover each other again. I enjoyed watching Michelle work through her trauma and break down her walls. Brooks was a patient man and loved Michelle wholeheartedly. They both came together and created a well written story. I loved working through Michelle’s trauma with her and that plot made an interesting storyline.
PS I also loved seeing Michelle’s relationship with Brigham. I hope he gets a book. I’m excited to read more from this author.
May 21, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5 Did enjoy this as an overall read. Dramatic sports romance for your evenings when you want a little easy read drama. Some of the character decisions felt a bit like their growth kept sliding back & forth which did frustrate me.
May 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! I loved Brooks and Michelle! I connected with Brooks' situation with his mom a lot since I'm currently going through the same thing with my grandma. I really appreciated how both Brooks and Michelle had well-rounded backstories and personalities. It really helped with fully developing the book.
May 26, 2025
I don’t know if I devoured this book or it devoured me but I’m absolutely obsessed! Jacqueline is the queen of sports and I’ll never get enough of everything she writes.
Michelle and Brooks were so much fun to read! They started as a hot fling a few years ago before Michelle quickly cut it off only to randomly run into each other 2 years later. The tension and chemistry between them was electric! What a man Brooks was, there was no way he was letting Michelle go a second time, he was a man obsessed (as he should be). I loved Michelle with my entire heart. She was just a strong FMC with a rough childhood/family life that she didnt want to affect her life as an adult. She had so many rules and walls up and I just loved watching them slowly crumble when she started to realise how amazing Brooks was.
As always the spice was absolutely spicing and I ate every single bit of it up! So damn hot 🥵
Thank you so much to Jaqueline for allowing me to read this arc.
Michelle and Brooks were so much fun to read! They started as a hot fling a few years ago before Michelle quickly cut it off only to randomly run into each other 2 years later. The tension and chemistry between them was electric! What a man Brooks was, there was no way he was letting Michelle go a second time, he was a man obsessed (as he should be). I loved Michelle with my entire heart. She was just a strong FMC with a rough childhood/family life that she didnt want to affect her life as an adult. She had so many rules and walls up and I just loved watching them slowly crumble when she started to realise how amazing Brooks was.
As always the spice was absolutely spicing and I ate every single bit of it up! So damn hot 🥵
Thank you so much to Jaqueline for allowing me to read this arc.
June 9, 2025
Thank you, Jaqueline for the arc of Sliding Home, out now!
3.5 stars overall.
This was a great read. Unfortunately, the thing that stuck with me the most was that no one (author included) discussed the TW's the book included. There was abuse from her father and brother and she was currently going through a tough situation that I would've preferred to have known in advance before thinking this was a light-hearted second chance romance between a nurse and a baseball player. Other than that, this was a nice read.
- Black Cat x Golden Retriever
- Second Chance
- Banter
- Opposites Attract
3.5 stars overall.
This was a great read. Unfortunately, the thing that stuck with me the most was that no one (author included) discussed the TW's the book included. There was abuse from her father and brother and she was currently going through a tough situation that I would've preferred to have known in advance before thinking this was a light-hearted second chance romance between a nurse and a baseball player. Other than that, this was a nice read.
- Black Cat x Golden Retriever
- Second Chance
- Banter
- Opposites Attract
April 22, 2025
I really enjoyed Sliding Home. It was fun, sweet, and sexy. It was even a little emotional.
2025 Edition Update
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
I originally read Sliding Home back in 2021 when I was just getting to know Jaqueline Snowe's writing. I enjoyed it back then and I loved it this time around as well. It was fun, sweet, and a little emotional.
Michelle and Brooks have a history. She's a nursing student from a rough past letting nothing, not even a relationship, stand in the way of her getting where she plans to be in the future. Michelle may have pushed Brooks away years ago, but he's not letting her do that the second time around when they meet again through friends. The professional baseball player will do anything to prove to her he's worth taking the risk, even letting her into his own family struggles. They have a push and pull relationship going on the only makes Michelle want to give into Brooks and have the love she's never experienced before.
I loved how Brooks was determined to show Michelle they were both worth the risk of a relationship. They both had tough family situations to deal with, and even thought they were very different, it brought them closer together. The fun Brooks brought to Michelle's life brought a relief she really needed, and she understood what his family was going through in the way only a future nurse could. It was very sweet. I know Snowe rewrote some sections of this book, but I can only guess at what they were because of how long its been since I read the book. I gave it 4 stars the first time around and 5 this time, so I'm guessing that only improved upon a strong story. It was a pleasure reading it both times.
2025 Edition Update
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
I originally read Sliding Home back in 2021 when I was just getting to know Jaqueline Snowe's writing. I enjoyed it back then and I loved it this time around as well. It was fun, sweet, and a little emotional.
Michelle and Brooks have a history. She's a nursing student from a rough past letting nothing, not even a relationship, stand in the way of her getting where she plans to be in the future. Michelle may have pushed Brooks away years ago, but he's not letting her do that the second time around when they meet again through friends. The professional baseball player will do anything to prove to her he's worth taking the risk, even letting her into his own family struggles. They have a push and pull relationship going on the only makes Michelle want to give into Brooks and have the love she's never experienced before.
I loved how Brooks was determined to show Michelle they were both worth the risk of a relationship. They both had tough family situations to deal with, and even thought they were very different, it brought them closer together. The fun Brooks brought to Michelle's life brought a relief she really needed, and she understood what his family was going through in the way only a future nurse could. It was very sweet. I know Snowe rewrote some sections of this book, but I can only guess at what they were because of how long its been since I read the book. I gave it 4 stars the first time around and 5 this time, so I'm guessing that only improved upon a strong story. It was a pleasure reading it both times.
May 6, 2025
Special thanks to the author for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review! 4.5 stars rounded up
TL;DR: Sliding Home is a great second-chance romance featuring two tough MCs who are easy to like and whom you almost immediately want to root for! Michelle and Brooks were great characters individually but together, their romance gave angst and a whole lot of (delightful) tension! I loved their “will-they-won’t-they” dance and found myself fully invested in their HEA. While this is very character driven, there was also a mini-suspenseful plot that made sense to the story, but I found the reasoning behind the third-act to be a bit frustrating, even if I did understand how it fit into their story. Overall, this had the character depth I feel I have been missing in a lot of the (indie) romances I read these days, and I loved it! If you’re looking for a non-sports heavy “sports romance”, a second-chance romance where the characters work to reach a good place, and plenty of open communicative moments, then I would recommend checking this out.
Content Warnings:
I have to admit that I was a bit surprised by how good this was and that’s not a slight against the author at all. I feel like in many of the (indie) romances I’ve read recently have had ‘surface level’ character development and I find myself constantly repeating that I want more character development. Of course, it’s subjective but all this to say: I loved how much emotional vulnerability and depth we get in Sliding Home!
Michelle and Brooks were great opposites and although I don’t normally gravitate towards second-chance romances, I really enjoyed theirs, even if it does hit the ground running. They had an intense fling years ago until she cut it all off and despite having no connection at all after that, it’s clear from the moment they meet again in the present day that whatever feelings formed still linger and the chemistry between them was absolutely electric! I’m not kidding when I say I felt tingles running down my arms whenever they’d wind up in the same room together—their connection was just that good. It goes without saying that the sexual tension was fire and I loved their ‘will-they-won’t-they’ dance as they got to know each other again and fought against hope and their feelings. But I eagerly anticipated the moment they’d both let their walls stay down and finally get together, and as expected, it was explosive when it happened and I couldn’t get enough of how well they complemented and grounded each other. They really gave each other the safe space they needed to be themselves without pretension and I felt like their connection embodied the saying: “it feels like coming home”.
As much as I loved them together, I also loved them individually. Michelle had a great deal of childhood trauma to process to finally accept that she deserves good things and just because she’s happy, doesn’t mean that it will be snatched away. She’s hardheaded, has a killer work ethic, and although she runs scared most of the time, the people who get into her heart, have a safe and warm place there. She certainly acts older than her mid-late 20s and it fit with having to grow up faster than she should’ve due to an incredibly toxic and abusive home. Even though there were times I wanted to shake her and say “Look! He’s not going anywhere! He trusts you! Look and actually see him!” (especially during that third act), I understood her fears well and again, it fit with the way someone who hadn’t worked fully through childhood trauma would act.
In contrast to her darker personality, Brooks was an absolute ray of sunshine, cinnamon roll, and golden retriever. Basically, all the Good Egg Energy™️ from this guy and I loved him for all the ways he was patient, nurturing, and attentive towards Mitch and how he showed her exactly what she deserved. I can’t believe I ever thought that I might not like his character because he came off too cocky at the start, and I clearly couldn’t have been more wrong! 😂 The more we got to know about him and everything that he’s dealing with behind closed doors, the more I fell in love with his character. This part of his story hit super close to home and it made me empathise with him even more! There’s this part in the story where he gets really emotional and oof, I got more than a little teary eyed and I was ready to reach into my Kindle and give this man the longest panda hug ever. 🥹 He deserves all the good and I’m glad that Mitch was able to return that love to him in the end.
Overall, as you can probably tell from this review, I had an awesome time reading Sliding Home and I finished it in one-sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down! I would definitely recommend it but I would also recommend viewing content warnings as some parts of the character’s stories can potentially be triggering.
TL;DR: Sliding Home is a great second-chance romance featuring two tough MCs who are easy to like and whom you almost immediately want to root for! Michelle and Brooks were great characters individually but together, their romance gave angst and a whole lot of (delightful) tension! I loved their “will-they-won’t-they” dance and found myself fully invested in their HEA. While this is very character driven, there was also a mini-suspenseful plot that made sense to the story, but I found the reasoning behind the third-act to be a bit frustrating, even if I did understand how it fit into their story. Overall, this had the character depth I feel I have been missing in a lot of the (indie) romances I read these days, and I loved it! If you’re looking for a non-sports heavy “sports romance”, a second-chance romance where the characters work to reach a good place, and plenty of open communicative moments, then I would recommend checking this out.
Content Warnings:
I have to admit that I was a bit surprised by how good this was and that’s not a slight against the author at all. I feel like in many of the (indie) romances I’ve read recently have had ‘surface level’ character development and I find myself constantly repeating that I want more character development. Of course, it’s subjective but all this to say: I loved how much emotional vulnerability and depth we get in Sliding Home!
Michelle and Brooks were great opposites and although I don’t normally gravitate towards second-chance romances, I really enjoyed theirs, even if it does hit the ground running. They had an intense fling years ago until she cut it all off and despite having no connection at all after that, it’s clear from the moment they meet again in the present day that whatever feelings formed still linger and the chemistry between them was absolutely electric! I’m not kidding when I say I felt tingles running down my arms whenever they’d wind up in the same room together—their connection was just that good. It goes without saying that the sexual tension was fire and I loved their ‘will-they-won’t-they’ dance as they got to know each other again and fought against hope and their feelings. But I eagerly anticipated the moment they’d both let their walls stay down and finally get together, and as expected, it was explosive when it happened and I couldn’t get enough of how well they complemented and grounded each other. They really gave each other the safe space they needed to be themselves without pretension and I felt like their connection embodied the saying: “it feels like coming home”.
As much as I loved them together, I also loved them individually. Michelle had a great deal of childhood trauma to process to finally accept that she deserves good things and just because she’s happy, doesn’t mean that it will be snatched away. She’s hardheaded, has a killer work ethic, and although she runs scared most of the time, the people who get into her heart, have a safe and warm place there. She certainly acts older than her mid-late 20s and it fit with having to grow up faster than she should’ve due to an incredibly toxic and abusive home. Even though there were times I wanted to shake her and say “Look! He’s not going anywhere! He trusts you! Look and actually see him!” (especially during that third act), I understood her fears well and again, it fit with the way someone who hadn’t worked fully through childhood trauma would act.
In contrast to her darker personality, Brooks was an absolute ray of sunshine, cinnamon roll, and golden retriever. Basically, all the Good Egg Energy™️ from this guy and I loved him for all the ways he was patient, nurturing, and attentive towards Mitch and how he showed her exactly what she deserved. I can’t believe I ever thought that I might not like his character because he came off too cocky at the start, and I clearly couldn’t have been more wrong! 😂 The more we got to know about him and everything that he’s dealing with behind closed doors, the more I fell in love with his character. This part of his story hit super close to home and it made me empathise with him even more! There’s this part in the story where he gets really emotional and oof, I got more than a little teary eyed and I was ready to reach into my Kindle and give this man the longest panda hug ever. 🥹 He deserves all the good and I’m glad that Mitch was able to return that love to him in the end.
Overall, as you can probably tell from this review, I had an awesome time reading Sliding Home and I finished it in one-sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down! I would definitely recommend it but I would also recommend viewing content warnings as some parts of the character’s stories can potentially be triggering.
April 22, 2025
Sliding Home is a heartfelt, emotional, and refreshingly character-driven second-chance romance that manages to be both swoony and grounded. Jaqueline Snowe delivers a story that’s not just about love—it’s about trust, healing, and learning to let someone stand beside you when you’ve spent your whole life trying to do everything alone.
Michelle Benning is a tough, sarcastic, emotionally guarded nursing student who’s had to fight tooth and nail for every inch of progress in her life. She’s juggling school, two jobs, and a nightmarish family situation she keeps tightly under wraps. Relationships? Absolutely not. Her rule is clear: flings only, no attachments, no emotions. The one time she slipped? Brooks Madsen. Two years ago, they had a moment, a connection so real it terrified her—so she did what she always does when things get too close: she ran.
Enter Brooks, two years later. Now a rising baseball star, he’s back in town for his teammate’s engagement to Michelle’s best friend. The moment he and Michelle see each other again, all that unresolved tension comes rushing back. But Brooks isn’t here just to reminisce. He wants answers. More than that, he wants another chance—not just at closure, but at something real with Michelle. The problem? She’s still hiding behind her walls, still convinced love is a distraction she can’t afford.
What makes Sliding Home shine is how well Snowe builds these characters. Michelle isn’t always easy to like—but she’s always easy to understand. Her fierce independence isn’t just for show; it’s armor she’s worn since childhood. And Brooks? He’s not just the charming athlete stereotype. He’s tender, patient, and completely disarmed by Michelle, even when she frustrates the hell out of him. His bond with his mom, who’s struggling with memory issues, adds so much depth to his character. He’s a cinnamon roll hero through and through—persistent, kind, and hopelessly in love with a woman who keeps pushing him away.
Their chemistry is off the charts, and their banter is genuinely fun to read. But more importantly, their relationship feels earned. The emotional beats hit hard—Michelle’s fear of vulnerability, Brooks’ frustration and heartbreak, the weight of their individual pasts. There’s heat, yes, but also heart.
For readers who want a sports romance that doesn’t center on the sport, this is it. Baseball is the backdrop, not the focus. It’s the connection between characters that drives this story. If you like second-chance romances with emotional complexity, a sweet but persistent hero, and a heroine who’s a little rough around the edges but worth every ounce of patience, Sliding Home will absolutely deliver.
Also, if you read Evening the Score, you’ll enjoy catching up with Fiona and Gideon. Their presence adds warmth and continuity without taking the spotlight away from Brooks and Michelle.
Final verdict: Sliding Home is sexy, emotional, and packed with slow-burn tension. It’s a story about tearing down walls, taking chances, and finding someone who refuses to give up on you—even when you try to push them away.
Rating: 4.5/5 — A smart, sexy romance with depth, angst, and a whole lot of heart.
Michelle Benning is a tough, sarcastic, emotionally guarded nursing student who’s had to fight tooth and nail for every inch of progress in her life. She’s juggling school, two jobs, and a nightmarish family situation she keeps tightly under wraps. Relationships? Absolutely not. Her rule is clear: flings only, no attachments, no emotions. The one time she slipped? Brooks Madsen. Two years ago, they had a moment, a connection so real it terrified her—so she did what she always does when things get too close: she ran.
Enter Brooks, two years later. Now a rising baseball star, he’s back in town for his teammate’s engagement to Michelle’s best friend. The moment he and Michelle see each other again, all that unresolved tension comes rushing back. But Brooks isn’t here just to reminisce. He wants answers. More than that, he wants another chance—not just at closure, but at something real with Michelle. The problem? She’s still hiding behind her walls, still convinced love is a distraction she can’t afford.
What makes Sliding Home shine is how well Snowe builds these characters. Michelle isn’t always easy to like—but she’s always easy to understand. Her fierce independence isn’t just for show; it’s armor she’s worn since childhood. And Brooks? He’s not just the charming athlete stereotype. He’s tender, patient, and completely disarmed by Michelle, even when she frustrates the hell out of him. His bond with his mom, who’s struggling with memory issues, adds so much depth to his character. He’s a cinnamon roll hero through and through—persistent, kind, and hopelessly in love with a woman who keeps pushing him away.
Their chemistry is off the charts, and their banter is genuinely fun to read. But more importantly, their relationship feels earned. The emotional beats hit hard—Michelle’s fear of vulnerability, Brooks’ frustration and heartbreak, the weight of their individual pasts. There’s heat, yes, but also heart.
For readers who want a sports romance that doesn’t center on the sport, this is it. Baseball is the backdrop, not the focus. It’s the connection between characters that drives this story. If you like second-chance romances with emotional complexity, a sweet but persistent hero, and a heroine who’s a little rough around the edges but worth every ounce of patience, Sliding Home will absolutely deliver.
Also, if you read Evening the Score, you’ll enjoy catching up with Fiona and Gideon. Their presence adds warmth and continuity without taking the spotlight away from Brooks and Michelle.
Final verdict: Sliding Home is sexy, emotional, and packed with slow-burn tension. It’s a story about tearing down walls, taking chances, and finding someone who refuses to give up on you—even when you try to push them away.
Rating: 4.5/5 — A smart, sexy romance with depth, angst, and a whole lot of heart.
May 5, 2025
Another series from Jaqueline that I am going to devour. I'm slightly confused about the release of this book but it's no worry, I'll read the entire series. Okay, why am I confused? So, apparently, this is a re-release of a book that Jaqueline came out with a few years ago. It is the second book of the series, Out of the Park. I don't know if there have been any updates to the previous version of the book but I loved the version that I read. I'm confused as to why the second book of the series is being re-released instead of starting with the first version. I'm also confused as to why an ARC copy would be sent out if the original book has already received reviews, unless there are very noticeable changes.
Either way, you know that the other two books of the series are not only on my TBR now, they have actually also been downloaded to my Kindle to read later this month.
I loved the story between Michelle and Brooks. Apparently, they had casually met two years prior and started a casual hook-up situation. Michelle tends to stick to ONS, however, Brooks became a repeat situation for her. She didn't tell anyone, including her BFF Fiona, who is the FMC in the first book. She only let drop that she was casually hooking up with someone, and then she had to cut their situationship because it was getting too serious. Fast forward to the present day. We are now attending Fiona's wedding, and a guest at the wedding is Brooks, the new teammate of the groom, Gideon. Brooks sees Michelle, the one who got away two years ago, and will not let the opportunity pass.
The back and forth between Brooks and Michelle, toeing the line between flirty banter and fear, is so good. Brooks does not want to let Michelle get away again. Michelle is too busy for anything, let alone a relationship. She is juggling school, nursing clinical/internship, her regular job, hiding from her family, and trying to be a good friend to Fiona. It's too much, and she can barely find a minute to spare. Oh, and the feelings she was starting to have for Brooks 2 years ago? Yeah, they didn't go away. They are alive and well, making Michelle all kinds of confused.
It's inevitable for Michelle to reject Brooks when he is so persistent, but despite all her efforts, she not only caves to his charm but also starts to open up to him.
Michelle gives Brooks insight into her life, her family history, and the need she has to survive on her own. Brooks also opens up about the struggles he is having with his mother's health.
However, Michelle's past and family catch up to her, and dating a famous, rich athlete may not be the best option for Michelle. When her family tries to extort her for Brook's money, Michelle has to make a choice of staying and allowing herself to trust and depend on others or running again.
I really enjoyed the subtle suspense in this book. Despite it being a baseball and nursing book, with each MC defining their career paths, there wasn't much mention about either of those jobs after the initial 20-25%
Thank you to Chasing Books PR and Jaqueline Snowe and team (Snowe Birds) for the opportunity to receive the ARC of this re-released edition of Sliding Home.
Either way, you know that the other two books of the series are not only on my TBR now, they have actually also been downloaded to my Kindle to read later this month.
I loved the story between Michelle and Brooks. Apparently, they had casually met two years prior and started a casual hook-up situation. Michelle tends to stick to ONS, however, Brooks became a repeat situation for her. She didn't tell anyone, including her BFF Fiona, who is the FMC in the first book. She only let drop that she was casually hooking up with someone, and then she had to cut their situationship because it was getting too serious. Fast forward to the present day. We are now attending Fiona's wedding, and a guest at the wedding is Brooks, the new teammate of the groom, Gideon. Brooks sees Michelle, the one who got away two years ago, and will not let the opportunity pass.
The back and forth between Brooks and Michelle, toeing the line between flirty banter and fear, is so good. Brooks does not want to let Michelle get away again. Michelle is too busy for anything, let alone a relationship. She is juggling school, nursing clinical/internship, her regular job, hiding from her family, and trying to be a good friend to Fiona. It's too much, and she can barely find a minute to spare. Oh, and the feelings she was starting to have for Brooks 2 years ago? Yeah, they didn't go away. They are alive and well, making Michelle all kinds of confused.
It's inevitable for Michelle to reject Brooks when he is so persistent, but despite all her efforts, she not only caves to his charm but also starts to open up to him.
Michelle gives Brooks insight into her life, her family history, and the need she has to survive on her own. Brooks also opens up about the struggles he is having with his mother's health.
However, Michelle's past and family catch up to her, and dating a famous, rich athlete may not be the best option for Michelle. When her family tries to extort her for Brook's money, Michelle has to make a choice of staying and allowing herself to trust and depend on others or running again.
I really enjoyed the subtle suspense in this book. Despite it being a baseball and nursing book, with each MC defining their career paths, there wasn't much mention about either of those jobs after the initial 20-25%
Thank you to Chasing Books PR and Jaqueline Snowe and team (Snowe Birds) for the opportunity to receive the ARC of this re-released edition of Sliding Home.
May 7, 2025
I was super excited to receive Sliding Home as an ARC! I love Jacqueline Snow books and eagerly await each new book. Sliding Home is a new, really good sports romance, and I really liked it! This is a second chance, black cat FMC/cinnamon roll MMC read. I will say, if you are triggered by mentions of abuse or drug addiction, this may be one to skip. The angst is on the lower end but I could see where some may not enjoy things that may come up. There is light at the end of the tunnel, however, and the dark parts are brief.
We start with Michelle, who is a nursing student, finishing up school and working a full time job at the same time. She comes from a chaotic, addict-riddled family. She is determined to make a good life for herself, and doesn't trust anyone, and does not fully open up to anyone. She meets our MMC, Brooks, by chance, had a brief, passionate fling with him, and ghosts him away when it gets to be too much. Two years later, she and Brooks meet again, when her best friend marries Brooks' teammate. Brooks has never forgotten Michelle, and while he has never stopped wondering why Michelle pushed ghosted him-- he doesn't want closure, he wants to try to re-open that door and pushing for more.
Swoon, I loved Brooks! What a dreamy dream of a man!! I loved his strength, his determination-- matched by Michelle's, but focused in different ways. Their chemistry is off the charts, and I was rooting for them from the get-go. I normally don't care for black cat, grumpy characters, but in Michelle's case her vulnerability shines through and makes her someone you want to root for, and also very relatable. Jacqueline Snowe really created some sensitive, empathetic characters and they are characters you identify with and want the happy ending for even more! The dialogue is great, and the side characters are funny and great friends. This was such a good read! I loved the strength, determination and the love that shines through both characters.
I really enjoyed Sliding Home! I started it, and all the sudden I was 40% in and it was so good that I was already sad that I was so far in, it is such an enjoyable read! I already am excited for the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of Sliding Home as an ARC, and all opinions are my own. If you enjoy rom coms, sports romance, second chances and plucky independent FMCs, I highly recommend!
We start with Michelle, who is a nursing student, finishing up school and working a full time job at the same time. She comes from a chaotic, addict-riddled family. She is determined to make a good life for herself, and doesn't trust anyone, and does not fully open up to anyone. She meets our MMC, Brooks, by chance, had a brief, passionate fling with him, and ghosts him away when it gets to be too much. Two years later, she and Brooks meet again, when her best friend marries Brooks' teammate. Brooks has never forgotten Michelle, and while he has never stopped wondering why Michelle pushed ghosted him-- he doesn't want closure, he wants to try to re-open that door and pushing for more.
Swoon, I loved Brooks! What a dreamy dream of a man!! I loved his strength, his determination-- matched by Michelle's, but focused in different ways. Their chemistry is off the charts, and I was rooting for them from the get-go. I normally don't care for black cat, grumpy characters, but in Michelle's case her vulnerability shines through and makes her someone you want to root for, and also very relatable. Jacqueline Snowe really created some sensitive, empathetic characters and they are characters you identify with and want the happy ending for even more! The dialogue is great, and the side characters are funny and great friends. This was such a good read! I loved the strength, determination and the love that shines through both characters.
I really enjoyed Sliding Home! I started it, and all the sudden I was 40% in and it was so good that I was already sad that I was so far in, it is such an enjoyable read! I already am excited for the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of Sliding Home as an ARC, and all opinions are my own. If you enjoy rom coms, sports romance, second chances and plucky independent FMCs, I highly recommend!
May 4, 2025
Michelle is an excellent protagonist; she is courageous, resilient, and determined. She aims to become a nurse and will not allow her awful family to interfere. Her sole flaw is that she maintains distance from everyone, never committing to a man to avoid the possibility of heartbreak. Then Brooks arrives, and he’s kind, humorous, and adores Michelle. I believed they had amazing chemistry, and their playful exchanges were charming.
Brooks had an incredible bond with his mother; I really enjoy witnessing a man show love for his family. I felt sad for him that she sometimes forgot him and his brother, but also glad that he did everything he could to assist her. Michelle annoyed me when she concealed her family problems and attempted to manage everything on her own. Everyone requires friends and support, and she was too obstinate for her own benefit. Fortunately, she gained insight and the situation resolved positively.
Brooks and Michelle began their relationship 2 years back during a brief romance, but Michelle abruptly ended it without reason, shutting the door on Brooks.
They reunite at the engagement party of Fiona, Michelle's close friend, and Gideon, who is Brooks's teammate. Although Brooks seeks answers, he also hopes to explore the possibility of rekindling something deeper with her, as no girl since has evoked these feelings in him. However, Michelle initially resists; she left him because her feelings for him grew stronger, which conflicted with her principles that guarantee her the ability to reach her objectives without interruptions. Additionally, her family has complicated her ability to trust and be vulnerable with others.
However, Michelle ultimately succumbs to the attraction and spends the night with him. Brooks is resolved to build a bond with her, although initially it must be a friendship.
Brooks's worry that Michelle might hurt him again, Michelle's fear of permitting herself to find happiness, are just a few of the significant issues this couple must confront to achieve their HEA.
Brooks had an incredible bond with his mother; I really enjoy witnessing a man show love for his family. I felt sad for him that she sometimes forgot him and his brother, but also glad that he did everything he could to assist her. Michelle annoyed me when she concealed her family problems and attempted to manage everything on her own. Everyone requires friends and support, and she was too obstinate for her own benefit. Fortunately, she gained insight and the situation resolved positively.
Brooks and Michelle began their relationship 2 years back during a brief romance, but Michelle abruptly ended it without reason, shutting the door on Brooks.
They reunite at the engagement party of Fiona, Michelle's close friend, and Gideon, who is Brooks's teammate. Although Brooks seeks answers, he also hopes to explore the possibility of rekindling something deeper with her, as no girl since has evoked these feelings in him. However, Michelle initially resists; she left him because her feelings for him grew stronger, which conflicted with her principles that guarantee her the ability to reach her objectives without interruptions. Additionally, her family has complicated her ability to trust and be vulnerable with others.
However, Michelle ultimately succumbs to the attraction and spends the night with him. Brooks is resolved to build a bond with her, although initially it must be a friendship.
Brooks's worry that Michelle might hurt him again, Michelle's fear of permitting herself to find happiness, are just a few of the significant issues this couple must confront to achieve their HEA.
May 6, 2025
Thanks to @jaquelinesnowe for the #gifted copy of this book.
"I know people can be the worst. But sometimes, if you let them, they can be the best thing about being alive."
Summary: Two years ago, Michelle pushed Brooks away without any explanation but the door in his face. Now, against all odds, they meet again with the same friend group, since Brooks was traded back to his home of Phoenix. This time, Brooks is not giving up and letting Michelle slip through his fingers. But with the past that Michelle has suffered, building walls around herself is the only way to create the life she wants, no matter what her heart might want. When her past comes back in full force, will Michelle run away from the life she's been carefully building or will she let Brooks in and trust him to help?
"...love wasn't about the grand gestures. It was about the in-between. The little things."
Dani's Thoughts: I fell in love with this book from the very first page and could not put it down. Michelle had such a tragic back story, full of so much hurt, pain, and fear that it was no wonder the walls she built around herself. I love how fiercely independent she was and let no one divert her path since she was determined to become a maternity nurse. When her past started to come back to haunt her, Michelle was adamant about protecting those she loved at all costs. But in the process, she finally learned to take a stand and trust those around her to have her back as well.
And then we have the pro baseball player with the heart of gold in Brooks. Though very persistent in his pursuit of gaining Michelle's trust, he was the perfect person to break down her walls, even while his world was crumbling around him as his mother's disease progressed. This was such a beautiful story of a second chance at love, building up trust with another person, and letting your heart be loved, even when it is scary.
Read if you love:
💖Second Chance
❤️🔥Banter
😘"Mine"
🐈⬛🐕Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🥰Found Family
🫣Little Suspense
🔥Spice
"I know people can be the worst. But sometimes, if you let them, they can be the best thing about being alive."
Summary: Two years ago, Michelle pushed Brooks away without any explanation but the door in his face. Now, against all odds, they meet again with the same friend group, since Brooks was traded back to his home of Phoenix. This time, Brooks is not giving up and letting Michelle slip through his fingers. But with the past that Michelle has suffered, building walls around herself is the only way to create the life she wants, no matter what her heart might want. When her past comes back in full force, will Michelle run away from the life she's been carefully building or will she let Brooks in and trust him to help?
"...love wasn't about the grand gestures. It was about the in-between. The little things."
Dani's Thoughts: I fell in love with this book from the very first page and could not put it down. Michelle had such a tragic back story, full of so much hurt, pain, and fear that it was no wonder the walls she built around herself. I love how fiercely independent she was and let no one divert her path since she was determined to become a maternity nurse. When her past started to come back to haunt her, Michelle was adamant about protecting those she loved at all costs. But in the process, she finally learned to take a stand and trust those around her to have her back as well.
And then we have the pro baseball player with the heart of gold in Brooks. Though very persistent in his pursuit of gaining Michelle's trust, he was the perfect person to break down her walls, even while his world was crumbling around him as his mother's disease progressed. This was such a beautiful story of a second chance at love, building up trust with another person, and letting your heart be loved, even when it is scary.
Read if you love:
💖Second Chance
❤️🔥Banter
😘"Mine"
🐈⬛🐕Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🥰Found Family
🫣Little Suspense
🔥Spice
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