משחק החיים

by A.M. Madden

קווינט לוסון
אפשר להגיד שהתאהבתי באנני מהרגע הראשון שראיתי אותה. היינו רק בני חמש, אבל כבר ידעתי שזה לנצח. זה אמור היה להיות סיפור האגדה שלנו, שבו שנינו מגשימים את חלומותינו יחד, אני במדי ה'יאנקיז' ואשתי בקריירה שלה.
אך מה יהיה עלינו כאשר כל מה שחלמתי עליו מתרסק? מה יהיה כאשר הבטחתי לה עולם ומלואו וכעת אני לא יכול לקיים את ההבטחה?

אנני ובר
כל מה שרציתי אי פעם בחיים היה להיות עם קווינט. אולי באמת ויתרתי על דברים עבורו, אבל מבחינתי זה דבר שעושים כשאוהבים מישהו, ובכל אופן הבחירה הייתה אמורה להיות שלי. הוא לקח ממני את הבחירה, קווינט החליט מה הכי טוב עבורי ובדרך רמס את ליבי.
האם אי פעם אוכל לסלוח לו? לפעמים בחיים מגיעים לתהומות של שפל. ומה אם אז זה כבר לא נראה אפשרי?

משחק החיים מאת סופרת רבי המכר איי. אם. מאדן הידועה ביכולותיה המופלאות ליצור דמויות שאיתן הקורא יכול להזדהות. זהו רומן רומנטי עכשווי, סוחף וצובט לב על התמודדות זוגית עם משברים אישיים המאפיינים כל זוג בצמיחה.

הספר זכה במדליית זהב בקטגוריית 'ספרי הרומנטיקה הטובים ביותר לשנת 2016' מטעם eLit Book Awards

וכן במדליית כסף בקטגוריית 'ספרי הרומנטיקה הטובים ביותר לשנת 2016' מטעם איגוד הסופרים העצמאיים בארה"ב.

Genres: Sports, Romance, Friends To Lovers, Sports Romance, Contemporary Romance, New Adult, Baseball

341 pages, Unknown Binding

First published July 13, 2015

About the author

A USA Today bestselling, award-winning author, A. M. Madden is also a Jersey girl whose addiction to romance started at twelve after reading Judy Blume’s Forever.

As a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic, she truly believes that true love knows no bounds.

In her books, she aspires to write fun, sexy, realistic love stories that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. She creates realistic characters and believes there’s no better compliment than when readers feel they know the characters personally.

When not writing, she’s busy being a wife to her soul mate, and a mother to two boys who she believes are the most handsome men on earth. She loves to cook, hates to bake, and dreams about living at the beach someday.


AWARDS:
2016 eLit Gold Medalist - Best Romance Ebook - The Shortstop
2016 IPPY Silver Medalist - Best Romance Ebook - The Shortstop
2018 Book Excellence Finalist - Finding Mr. Wrong (co-written with Joanne Schwehm).
2019 Book Excellence Finalist - Scoring Mr. Romeo (co-written with Joanne Schwehm).

Sign up for A. M. Madden’s newsletter at www.ammadden.com to get up-to-date information on new releases, cover reveals, and exclusive excerpts.


website - www.ammadden.com
Facebook - A.M. Madden, Author
Twitter - @ammadden1
Instagram - ammadden1
Email - am.madden@aol.com

A.M. Madden is represented by Stephanie Phillips / SBR Media Agency.

Copyright © A.M. Madden, Author, All rights reserved.

A.M. Madden is a Goodreads Author and can be contacted on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or at am.madden@aol.com

Reviews

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Release Date 7/13/15
Story Rating ~ 5, SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL STARS!
Hero Rating ~ 5, SEXY STARS!
Heroine Rating ~ 5, I LOVED HER STARS!
Romance Rating ~ 5, HUGE HEARTFELT STARS!
Heat Level ~ 4, SIZZLING STARS!
Ending ~ 5, HUGE SMILING, HAPPY, COULD HAVE NOT ENDED BETTER STARS!
Overall Rating ~ 5, NEVER TAKE A LOVED ONE FOR GRANTED STARS!

WHAT AN AMAZING READ THIS WAS FOR ME! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED EVERY MOMENT!

Annie and Quint have been best friend since the age of 5. As the years passed, love bloomed. These two for me were the PERFECT couple. They had huge plans for their future and when Quint is offered the spot to play for the Yankee’s it seems like everything is just what they have always hoped for. That is until something bad happens.

I LOVED Quint, he was one of the most romantic hero’s. The way he loved Annie stole my breath. I really felt the love he had for Annie, it practically shined off of my kindle right into my heart. At first he was perfect, then he hit a very rough stop and lost sight of what really matters in life. This had me all messed up, my emotions in turmoil. Some of the things he did were flat out heart wrenching.

Annie, oh my, she was such a loving, caring, forgiving and all out fantastic heroine. She stood by Quint through thick and thin until he did the unimaginable. Did he cheat on her, NO but it was really bad nevertheless.

There were also some excellent secondary characters in this book. I’d LOVE for A.M. to write Billy’s story ;-) Just saying.

The heat rating OH MY! Quint almost sported a hard on the whole book. He loved Annie so much that all he had to do was look at her and he became erect. Annie of course was right there with him and the many of love scenes throughout this book were SCORCHING HOT!

The ending was 3 full chapters of never ending smiles for me, I was SO DARN HAPPY with the way things turned out!

In closing I’d like to say that this book was FANTASTIC! I went through a whole arsenal of emotions reading this book. I was completely captivated by the story and the characters.
WELL DONE A.M MADDEN!!

*A copy of this book was gifted to me by the author in exchange for an honest review*

[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

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So it seems I’m not big of guys who have it all and push the love of their lives away when things get tough. Also athletes are very familiar with injuries and so the hero’s behavior to me was over the top, selfish and crappy. Still this is a childhood sweetheart story that’s relationship is shaken when Quint gets in the Major Leagues and faces a life changing event. My favorite part of the story was definitely the epilogue. This author can definitely write and the hero brings the heat in the bedroom even, if it the overall story wasn’t a game winning homerun for me.

[Kristy /Obsessed with Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not quite sure why I went after this ARC....probably because I love sports and friends to lovers stories and I had read one of A.M. Madden's previous books and I liked it well enough. I wasn't particularly excited about starting this one but I made a commitment to review and I was going to stick to that. Turns out I should have been REALLY FREAKIN' EXCITED to be reading this book. I should have been freaking GIDDY that someone was letting me read this book. The book hangover from this one has lasted all week. I'm a damn blogger and I haven't read a book ALL WEEK because The Shortstop just fulfilled every single thing I need a book to fulfill. It was so damn good.

The first half of the book was sweet in all the best 'friends to lovers', 'high school sweethearts', 'next door neighbors' kind of ways. Annie and Quint are adorable and good to each other. They are likable characters and clearly in love with their future all mapped out for them. What I loved about the first half of this book was as great as their story was....I just felt this tension while I was reading it...not between the characters...but in my gut I felt like I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and I KNEW the shoe was going to drop. That tension is the kind of thing that makes a book great for me. I was scared to death for them (yep...for fictional characters) and that's why I read books...to FEEL that fear...to know something is coming and to dread and crave it all at the same time.

Just to prove my point....this is what my FB post looked like while I was reading:

Want to hear the best part? When that shoe dropped....it was nothing like what I expected...NOTHING. Not only that...it seemed like nothing I had ever read before. I read tons of sports romances and this one had something NEW. My God do I love being surprised by a book. And then this book got painful. For me it was ugly cry, actual pain in my chest, sobbing, angry oh please no kind of crying. Actually...I still cry when I think about. I finished this book a week ago and I'm crying while I write this review because parts of this book will just rip your heart out.

And then

It got more painful. I was thinking about this analogy the other day...it was like A.M. Madden ripped my heart out and then, just when I thought she was done...she threw it on the floor and stomped the hell out of it. The good news? She did eventually pick up all the little pieces, put them back together in the most beautiful way and give it back to me.....and somehow managed to leave me sobbing with joy and grateful for the experience.

Quint is a beautiful boy with such a good heart. You will love him, you will root for him, you will adore his sappy romantic side and the care with which he loves and protects Annie. He is every bit a boy who fell in love at 5 years old and never fell out. But you will hate him and you will be so damn angry with him and you will want to simultaneously beat the hell out of him and hold him.

Annie is sweet, almost too sweet. She is supportive and loving and totally willing to stand on the sidelines to root for her man, She is every bit the girl who fell in love at 5 years old and never fell out. But she can be her own kind of frustrating, the kind where you just want to yell please Annie, have an opinion, stand up for yourself, stop being so meek. You'll love her, but you'll want to take her and shake her too. I don't want to spoil anything...but let me just say a great character evolution absolutely rocks. And Annie's is one of the best character evolutions, like top three I've ever read for a female character. Yep...that good.

I read a lot of books...A LOT of them. Some I wish I hadn't wasted my time on, some were OK, some I'm really freaking happy I got to read....but this book...THIS book I'm GRATEFUL that I got to read it. Absolutely grateful for the experience of this book and for me...that puts it in a very elite group.

[A.D. Justice · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a love story that will pull you into the story, hold you captive, and stay with you long after you've finished reading it, this book is it.

Quint and Annie have been together in one way or another since they were little, playing in the sprinklers and having fun being friends. As friends mature, so does their relationship. They share a once in a lifetime love and an unbreakable bond.

But when Quint's worst nightmare becomes a reality, their flawless relationship begins to unravel. Both Quint and Annie have to evaluate what's really important in life, where their loyalties lie, and what they're each made of. The adage "You never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice," is so true, and the strength of their love and determination will inspire you.

Get ready to have your heart melted, torn out, stomped on, stitched back together, and made whole again through the perfection that is A.M. Madden's writing style! You'll laugh, swoon, cry, yell, and squirm from the heat rising from the words. The Shortstop is wonderfully written, heartbreakingly beautiful, and soul hauntingly gratifying. Grab this one - you will love it!

[Donna ~ The Romance Cover · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Shortstop by AM Madden
4.5 stars!!

“The only two people on earth who had the power to crush me have chosen to exercise that power.”

This was my first read by AM Madden and it certainly won’t be my last, the blurb had me at childhood sweethearts and baseball...I was sold.

These two characters had one of those forever friendships and their lives had progressed with each other at the forefront of each other’s thoughts and actions, these two were inseparable. After becoming neighbours at five years old they became friends, then they became best friends and then finally they became lovers. Having spent most of their life together they truly epitomised the words “soul mates.” They knew each other inside out, they could read each other like a book, they knew each other’s idiosyncrasies, they knew each other’s likes and dislikes but most of all, they had that all-compassing love, together they were blinkered, they only had eyes and love for each other.

Annie was such a beautiful character inside and out. She was really sweet, loyal, loving, giving and totally supportive of Quint. She had followed his baseball career since the beginning and was also his biggest and most vocal cheerleader. Quint though was quite sensible, rather than going pro while still at college he decided to get his degree first and then see what baseball had to offer when the time was right for him and Annie, it didn’t take long for Quint to get the opportunity of a life time.

“Of course, I know he loves me. But I always wonder if it came down to baseball or me, which would he choose?”

Quint was baseball bred through and through, he idolised the sport and loved playing it and he was darn good at it too. Once again AM Madden had created the perfect character with Quint, he was adorable, his love and passion for Annie was off the charts, he worshipped her and idolised her, he put her first and foremost but he was also a total upstanding kind of guy. He was so romantic you couldn’t help but swoon; these two really were the perfect couple.

“Every move he makes is synchronized, reactive. The music that moves him comes in the form of the loud crack of a bat when it makes contact with a ball...or the hissing of air as a ball shoots towards him. He makes it look artistic and choreographed. Watching my man playing baseball is awe-inspiring ...and hot as hell.”

Life always throws its curveballs and this couple had a huge one to contend with. Sometimes what life throws at us can either make us or break us and this was the kind of struggle that this couple now had to deal with. We all deal with life’s challenges differently, but with love and good support network you can overcome most things. Quint and Annie had the biggest support network but will that be enough?

“The ache I feel for her outmeasures any physical pain I’ve endured. It’s a million times more painful.”

This book was perfectly balanced with lots of love, friendships and steam balanced with its fair share of angst, emotion and turmoil. This book had me running the gamut of emotions with both tears of happiness and sorrow. You couldn’t help but connect with these characters and when they hurt I hurt and when they loved I loved, this is testament to AM Maddens writing prowess because she truly brought these characters to life. I have read so many sports related books now in this genre but with this book I actually felt I was there, I was in the stadium, I was watching the game, I was supporting and cheering along with the next person, I was totally wrapped up in this book and I couldn’t put it down. I love it when an author manages to do that through the magic of words, it is an extremely powerful talent.

“You and I are solid. Tornados can easily destroy a weak foundation that wasn’t built to withstand it. I dare anyone to try and take us down.”

I cannot wait to read another book from this author, if this is a sign of things to come; I may only have time to come up for air.

www.theromancecover.com

[Heroesinbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Annie and Quint Stars

Could I have my heart back now please? It got a bit battered there for a few chapters...



I decided to sort out the mountain that is my TBR and came across The Shortstop , which has been languishing on my Kindle since 2015. Two pages in and I was hooked. Cue two days of not being able to put Annie and Quint's story down , very little sleep and the book hangover from hell. All completely worth it.



Our H/h are childhood sweethearts and have been inseparable since they were 5 years old. They started dating in high school, stayed together through college and then Quint's professional Baseball career takes off. Annie and Quint are that couple that are solid and absolutely destined to be together. You can feel their love and they are each other's everything.

You and I are solid. Tornados can easily destroy a weak foundation that wasn’t built to withstand it. I dare anyone to try to take us down.”

Ah the irony. The person that brought them down was Quint. They are living the dream until , in the blink of an eye they suddenly aren't. My heart broke first for him because his dream , his lifelong ambition is hanging in the balance and surely life wouldn't be that cruel to snatch it away from him. Everything he has worked for is in jeopardy. I found Quint's character fascinating because he had more layers and dimensions to him than perhaps I gave him credit for in the beginning. He surprised, shocked , infuriated and stunned me. He does something that I thought was unforgivable and yet I wanted to hug him and make the hurt go away. It's been a while since a character has pulled so many emotions out of me. His regret and remorse went a long way towards his redemption in this reader's eyes.

The normal definition of regret isn’t profound enough. There should be an entry in the dictionary for motherfucking-regret. The kind of regret that controls every breath you take as well as every thought in your mind.

If Quint was in a dark place before , it was about to get darker. He's so angry and furious and yet he's like a caged animal in his own world.

Everyone has an opinion and here’s mine. Fuck the universe and everyone in it because, for whatever reason, it’s obvious that the universe is bending me over and fucking me hard. I must have been a horrific person in a past life and it’s now retribution time.

And then there is Annie. As a heroine she's very likeable, but many heroine's are. There was potential there for her to get lost in the story , to be a doormat and be a pale ray of sunshine against the vibrancy of Quint's character but she doesn't. Our girl grows a pair and I was so there for that.


She broke and was devastated but she absolutely rose from the ashes of the implosion of hers and Quint's relationship. She doesn't just capitulate to him when he realises what he has done and the very real chance that he has truly lost her. He has work to do to redeem himself.

"It’s been one week since I went to see her. I haven’t heard from her, nor did I expect to. Regardless, I keep sending the same daily text: “I’m sorry. Please forgive me.”

This is a hard book to review because too much detail will detract from the emotional punches it delivers. I really enjoyed it and I hope I haven't made it sound too dark. There are lots of fun , romantic and lovely , warm aspects to their story which makes the contrast with the devastating turn of events so much more impactful. If childhood sweethearts and sports romance are your kindle catnip (and you aren't too opposed to book induced sleep deprivation) , then I highly recommend this book.



HEA? Yes
Cheating? It's complicated. If it's an absolute hard limit for you then maybe you should tread carefully.

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story felt like three distinct stories: The Sweet, The Sadness, and The Road Back to Sweet.

The Sweet
The friendship between Quint Lawson and Annie Weber began at the age of five. The relationship blossomed into dating at the age fifteen. An engagement after college. A future, together, forever. Or so it was planned.

These two were one of those couples that were meant to be together. Soul mates. While they fought on occasion, they never strayed. And were each others firsts, for everything.

The happiness and sweetness of this part of the book was dripping off the pages. So in love. So turned on by each other. They were like the energizer bunnies, foreplay, making love, fucking, ALL THE TIME. When they came up for air, Quint was busy chasing his dream to play baseball in the big leagues, with Annie cheering and supporting him along the way.

Reading this part, it was almost too much, too perfect. Yet I'd read the synopsis, so I knew something bad was going to go down. I had my speculations as to what that might be, and I wasn't far off the mark. What I didn't expect was how suddenly everything would change.

The Sadness
It literally felt like a switch went off, like a circuit breaker, Quint just shut down. The light in his eyes didn't dim, it went out. He wasn't even remotely like the guy in the first part of the book. That pissed me the fuck off! I felt so bad for Annie, his family, and his BFF, Billy. He treated everyone like shit. Wallowing in his own self-pity. The worst part of it being that it seemed that he loved baseball more than Annie. And that made zero sense.

While one would expect a sadness to overcome someone who experiences loss, I didn't expect the depth that the loss would impact Quint. This part of the story wasn't short, it occurs over months. Anniversaries, holidays, and one special event planned for November 7th, all pass them by, with Quint refusing to show any fight. It was sad and depressing. And my anger with him didn't die down. Sure, I initially felt sorry for him, but that didn't last long and my sympathies ran dry. He effectively destroyed all the good that remained in his life.

I won't even get started on what happened with Daphne, Annie's BFF. It's all kinds of wrong. But it's also not what it seems, and that's all I'll say.

The Road Back to Sweet
So how does Quint recovery from the loss and destruction his life has become? By almost losing more. He gets a wake up call when he FINALLY realizes how out of wack his priorities were, and that his life shouldn't begin and end with baseball. Now he understands that life is empty without love and support to guide one through the tough times. The circuit was flipped back.

This story was a huge emotional roller coaster. The flip from happiness to sadness and back, so extreme, it was hard to stomach. I personally would have preferred something more gradual, not so abrupt. I understand depression, but the man in the first part of the story was nothing like the man in the second part, and that was bothersome. Thankfully, there was that last flip in the book, to save my kindle from destruction.

If you enjoy sports romances, particularly baseball, this was a great addition to the genre. There was a good balance of romance, with a realistic look into the sport, its fans and how business is run. We do get a HEA that is fitting to the middle part of the story, that seems to put everyone in a better place for the long term.

*An ARC was received for an honest review.

[Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

***** 5 Cranky Stars *****

Quint has two passions: Annie and baseball. His talent was apparent early on and he dominated every baseball diamond he played on. His position: the eponymous shortstop of this story.



Annie Webber: the tomboy, uninterested in the normal girly things, is Quint’s best friend from the age of five.


As they grow, their relationship develops into something more, something rare and precious. The future looks bright. Quint realizes his dream. Everything is perfect and then trouble appears like a tsunami.



This story is about true love. It’s sexy and sassy with fantastic characters, but it’s more than that. It’s also about perseverance, conquering demons and fighting for your happiness. Life is easy when it’s perfect, but the real test of character is in its hardships.



Highly recommended.

[Michelle Dare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot guy plus hot sport? Yes, please!

I was completely pulled into this book from the first page. Quint Lawson is a star athlete on his way to great things. Annie Weber is his childhood friend turned girlfriend and his number one fan. The chemistry between these two is amazing!

All great loves aren't without bumps in the road, though. In Quint and Annie's case, the bump was a mountain. One moment alters their lives. Hearts are broken, a life spirals out of control, all because of that one moment in time.

I loved this book! A.M. Madden has a way of drawing you deep into the story, making you feel each emotion the characters are going through. I didn't want the story to end, but when it did I was left with a smile on my face and pure happiness for Quint and Annie. Thank you for giving us their story, A.M.!

[Anne OK · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hit a grand slam with “The Shortstop.” Not only a wonderful sport's romance but for a steal at 99-cents. The biggest difference between this one and others that are similar is the well-balanced division between the role baseball played and the romance. Baseball’s direct relation to the story demanded it and was the major contributing factor in my decision for awarding the five-star rating here. A.M. Madden has definitely knocked it out of the ballpark with Quinn and Annie’s story.

But there was even more to praise, too. The characters were truly lovable. Both dedicated to the other. You believed the chemistry between them. They began as childhood friends, continuing their relationship into that first love stage during their teen years, and finally committing to a deep and everlasting soul mate commitment. Each stage was well-developed and realistically portrayed. There is an array of engaging back up characters as well.

Of course, Annie and Quint never expected their future to include the devastating hit that it took. Watching them struggle and agonize with the challenges that were suddenly thrust upon them was emotionally riveting. You truly hurt for them both. At times, I was disgusted with Quint’s behavior and not sure that I could forgive him. In the back of my mind though, I knew this was not the real Quint. He didn’t really deserve my disgust because he certainly had never ever shown these tendencies up until the time he faced such a debilitating event. And Annie stood strong beside him through it all – even when she couldn’t face it daily. Even when Quint treated her so badly.

The author left readers with a beautifully written Epilogue – some years into Quint and Annie's future. It was everything I could have hoped for and more. I thoroughly enjoyed this sports-related romance. A new to me author with a fantastic story to tell. Anyone who enjoys sports and romance should not miss out on this one.

[Jesey ~ Schmexy GIrl~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been sitting here staring at my computer, trying to figure out where to start, what to say to do this book justice? This story really hit home for me. I quietly sobbed my way through, choked up, full of emotions and I loved every second of it (just don’t ask AM Madden how many times I messaged her….just sayin’).

Quint and Annie have a life long relationship, it’s already established, they are just moving right along. It felt so natural, so right…reading about how they were best friends from an early age. We were given glimpses as to how that relationship changed over the years and then we are brought to the present as the two get ready for some major changes.

“In the meantime, I’ll keep doing what I do best…playing ball and loving her.”

This young couple is caught up in a whirlwind of life changing events. The stress of this alone made me sympathize with them. We’ve all been there….wondering what comes next, what is really important…then that self doubt creeps in.

“I know he loves me. But I always wonder if it came down to baseball or me, which would he choose?”

Ouch. That broke me to read, I wanted to reach in, grab Annie and give her a huge hug and tell her it would always be her….it had to be right?! There is love, there is anger, there is confusion over feelings. This book had me in knots….on the edge of my seat….crying and screaming, laughing and loving. When I say that this book is a must read…I couldn’t be any clearer….you MUST READ this book. I may not be a “baseball wife”so to speak, but so many other feelings came in to play, it really made me take a look deep inside myself and I know that everything will be ok. Don’t wait to meet Q & Annie NOW!!!

[Wendy ⏃: ✦The Life of A Book Nerd✦ · Rating 4 out of 5]

+++ 4 CHAOTIC TURMOIL STARS +++





The Shortstop is a story about life, love, and baseball.

At the age of 5, Quint Lawson knew that Annie Weber would be his forever. Their love began as a friendship and as they got older bloomed into love. They were inseparable, always able to tell what the other was feeling or thinking with just a mere look in the eyes. But life isn't easy and it tested them both, especially the moment that Quint began to play professional baseball.

Annie is a loving and caring person. When Quint begins to play pro ball her insecurities set her back. She feels unworthy and that caused her to not know how she would fit into Quint's new world that centered around the sport.

Two things Quint loves the most is baseball and Annie. She is forever for him and he couldn’t visualize a future that didn't involve her. She brought that calm to him every moment he stepped up to home plate to bat. No one knew him better than she did.

"Like a ballerina who knows her dance and performs it to perfection--that is how Quint plays this game. Every move he makes is synchronized, reactive. The music that moves him comes in the form of the loud crack of a bat when it makes contact with a ball or the hissing of air as a ball shoots towards him. He makes it look artistic and choreographed. Watching my man play baseball is awe-inspiring."

But life isn't always fair. Quint suffers a major setback, one that ultimately destroys everything he has ever wanted. From that moment on the story dove into this cluster fuck of epic proportions. Quint and Annie must grow as people, and grow apart to mend the hurt, and the wounds left behind. The ending to their story couldn't have been more perfect and if you're a sports romance fan that loves a good plot with a lot of angst, this story is just for you.



*An ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.*

[S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

HOLY HOT MOTHERFUCKING BASEBALL PLAYER!!! Goodness gracious I need to go watch some baseball games!

This book tells the story of 2 childhood sweethearts (friends since age 5) who become so much more to each other!

I loved Annie's character! She was the ideal girlfriend staying by Quint's side through thick and thin until he gave her no choice. The sacrifices she had to make and the constant struggle to be supportive (even though she did it happily) when the one you love has such a demanding passion (I wanted to say career but baseball was Quint's passion and love). Annie was pure and perfect love personified.

Quint was so dreamy. He was the perfect boyfriend. He loved Annie more than words. You could literally feel his love at certain points of the book. Every girl dreams of a man like Quint in her life. Until he lost it. And when I say lost it I mean LOST IT. I went from loving him to wanting to punch him in the face.

AM Madden brought the heat with this one as per her usual style. The sexual chemistry and the feels were off the charts. She isn't afraid to rip your heart our before she puts it back together. I've been a long time fan but honestly her emotional depth as a writer seems to have tripled with the last few books she has written. I don't know how else to say it. No matter what she writes about you can relate and you can feel it in your should. I highly recommend one-clicking this bad boy!

[Three Chicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Break My Heart and Put It Together Stars!

Review by Lisa Kane

I have to admit that the reviews for this one more than piqued my curiosity. I was scared to read it because some implied there was cheating and I have a hard time swallowing that, but I dug in anyway. And damn, am I glad I did!

This is a fantastic read! Quint Lawson and Annie Weber have been all things for each other since they were toddlers. Both have dreamt of the day Quint could live out his dream to play professional baseball. They've graduated from college and Quint is about to take on the position of shortstop for a minor league team in Baltimore. But there is talk that he will be brought up to the Orioles shortly. He and Annie are both excited and a little overwhelmed with all the attention Quint is receiving. Their parents, who are best friends provide support. Their best friends, Daphne and Billy have an on/off again relationship but would do just about anything for them.

There was never a question whether Annie would be my wife. There wasn't even a question that I would be playing ball in some capacity.

But it doesn't take long for Quint to catch the eye of the Yankees-this team is his ultimate dream-the one he dared himself to dream about. And they want him. And offer big bucks. They tell him not to be surprised if he is their franchise player before long. The press is wild about him and follow him and Annie everywhere.

"Q, you don't have to worry about me. I can handle all the craziness. I've had some experience with it so far," I tease, referring to his many, many pushy groupies.
"Q, I believe in us. You and I are solid. Tornados can easily destroy a weak foundation that wasn't built to withstand it. I dare anyone to try to take us down." Uh oh..be careful what you wish for...

Annie takes care of all of Quint's personal details while planning their wedding. The dress is bought, the date is saved and things could not be better.

"Through it all, my only concern is that you're okay. None of this will be worth it to me if you aren't happy."

Right a bout 50% into this book, I knew, I just knew the other shoe was going to drop. It didn't just drop; it plummeted right along with my stomach. Quint's injury is potentially the kind to kill his career as a player. It seemed as if the moment he was hurt he completely changed. My Quint love fest turned quickly to disdain and then to all out hatred. He is horrible to those who love him-Annie, his parents, Billy, his teammates. I understand that he is hurting; both physically and mentally, but dear lord no one escapes his rage. Since this story is told from both POV's, we can get inside Quint's head and know his thoughts.

Why can't she be enough for me? It shouldn't matter if I play baseball or flip burgers, having her in my life should be enough. What the F*@k is wrong with me? Why can't I be content without my career?

Hmmm..I'm asking my self the same things. I know that for Quint he sees his self worth in his ability to play ball, so for him to be this shattered he feels worthless and won't let Annie be brought down in his misery. He truly thinks she will be better off without him.

"I can't do this," he suddenly says so quietly, I barely hear him.
"Do what?"
"Us."

Annie is broken and left bleeding. I couldn't stop wiping the steady tears rolling down my cheeks. But thenI got to "that part". There are no words to describe the chest pains I had. I hated Quint, I felt sick to my stomach. I wasn't sure I could keep reading this book.

She's always been my heart, but baseball was my blood. One doesn't work without the other.

Now I am someone who more than occasionally reads the ending first. No judging....But as much as I wanted to, I wouldn't let myself.

Sometimes love isn't enough. I broke her trust. I broke her heart.

I picked my kindle back up and my broken, crushed heart was put back together again. I honestly could not see how things could ever be the same for Annie and Quint again. But trust me, there are twists and turns to this story that you just will not see coming. And they are so good. My soul was repaired, my heart was mended. The epilogue was beautiful and more than I could have hoped for-this one has it all! The angst that will make you reach for your antacid tabs, the sex that will have you chewing ice cubes, the suspense that will have your squirming in your chair dying to know how this is all going to play out. This one is a definite recommended read! Bliss!


I thank God for bringing him back to me.

[Red Cheeks Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh boy, where do I start with this one? It was perfect. Until it wasn’t. Confused? Welcome to how I felt by the end of The Shortstop. For half of the book it was such an epic and beautiful love story centred around two teenage sweethearts, sports hotshot Quint and the incredibly lovable Annie. In fact they first fall in love at five years old, becoming best friends and progressing to kissing friends that soon transformed into an insatiable and passionate love story that takes us to the present, after college and beginning a new era in their lives together- engaged and flying high. The beginning chapters were utterly perfect- romantic, steamy with sex, funny and full of relationship drama from a different set of characters but it’s only when Quint suffers a serious setback in his rising baseball career that everything begins to fall apart between him and the kind and sweet Annie. Anger, resentment and depression slowly creep in and take over the once loving and protective Quint, leaving behind the shell of the man that Annie fell in love with, however Annie is a remarkable heroine to have in your corner as her love and compassion and optimism never falters for Quint, she’s his strength and cheerleader in his darkest hours but unfortunately Quint is so far immersed in his own self pity that he begins to push Annie to the limits, testing their once unbreakable bond.

Tears blur my vision but anger is what’s fuelling my words. “You can’t be hurting as much as I am.”

“Really, because I haven’t loved you since the age of five? I couldn’t possibly be affected by all this as much as you are, if not more? Well, guess what? You’re fucking wrong! I am hurting as much as you. I may not hurt physically, but what’s happening inside me, what I feel every waking moment of every day is a pain like I’ve never felt before. The worst part is I never thought I’d ever feel pain in association with you. I never imagined you’d be the one to make the pain I feel worse with every malicious word out of your mouth.”

What started out as a brilliant story soon became embroiled in a stomach churning plot of dark angst and a serious case of WTF? Quint does something unforgivable in my eyes whether it was premeditated or not and designed to push away Annie or not, it just took the whole story down into the gutter for me. Annie’s character became far too malleable and meek and everything that was wrong or had gone wrong, the relationships that were ruined and desecrated-all of it was just swept under the carpet and everyone moved on with their lives. It’s a story that will work for some, they may love it but for me the second half was just too depressing and upsetting to even contemplate. It was very well written and the characters are well developed, even the secondary characters bring a lot of action to the table but it was just that one huge moment that threw me for a loop and sent the rest of the book downhill.

~Nicole

[Jillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well...finished with Mr. Baseball over here. Wow! What a home run this was for A.M. Madden.
This was a page turning book from front to back. It was so sweet, angsty, funny, and adorable at any given moment. There was some times my eyes spilled and heart was splintered. But this is where great stories are born from.
Annie and Quint were neighbors and met at the age of 5 when Annie barged her way into his life stealing his Tonka Truck. After this it was these two always together as best friends.
Annie is such a sweetheart, she has such a kind and gentle soul. She will make sure those she love are happy and that then defines her happiness.
Quint has always been an amazing baseball player and was scouted while in high school for some minor leagues. Well what is most important after high school? College of course!
Florida State with Annie by his side and a new few friends make college great.
What happens after college and following dreams? Well.....you will just have to read this great story.
Just remember when you are down and kicking yourself, you have to brush yourself and remember all you have. Especially those you love and love you.
Full circle emotions here and I love it!
To me Quint is a perfect blend of Jack and Trey. He is devastatingly handsome, charming, witty, can show you his heart and keep you mesmerized gazing into those beautiful brown eyes of his.
Hold on to this one ladies....well you can try....

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotions Explode in The Shortstop
Annie and Quint met when they were 5 and have been in love ever since. Starting with the cute puppy love and moving on to secret stolen kisses at 14, to the most amazing marriage proposal ever after their college graduation. Their love knows no bounds and will truly last forever.... or will it?
Am Madden is one of my top 5 favorite authors of all time. I was gifted this advanced copy for an honest review and it's taken me a week to heal from the severe book hangover from being entwined in the lives of Quint and Annie.
This story opened my heart, nurtured it and then obliterated it only to piece it slowly back together. I actually had to stop part way through to chat with Mrs. Madden and thank her for waking me up. Life is hard and full of challenges. Most of us have the unconditional love and support of family and friends to help us through the tough times. Life passes by fast but how we overcome the challenges placed before us is what matters. It's about choosing to live to live, and not live to die. Thank you Am for creating an amazing heartfelt story that will stick with me for the rest of my life.
This story is a must read. It's sexy and sassy with the coolest characters that make you want to be their friends or a part of their family.

[Diane Yoz · Rating 5 out of 5]

☆I was super lucky to be gifted an ARC!! ☆
Imagine meeting the Love of your life at a young age,  Your best friend, your soul mate, you reason for living and your inspiration to better yourself.  The Shortstop is a story of Quint and Annie, who met at the age of five when Annie moved next door to Quint, and despite meeting at such a young age their love for each other was destined from day one, and it is because of that love that they can handle the curveballs that are thrown their way.
I Love this book!! It’s a story of friendship, love and your true path in life. I am going to be honest before I first started to read the book, I thought to myself “oh I don’t know if a want a lovey dovey everything is all roses kind of story”,  But once I started to read The Shortstop, from the very first page  I  knew HOW WRONG I WAS!! The Short Stop is an incredibly emotional unforgettable story! I was glued from page one and here it is days later and I still can’t stop thinking about it. It was so much more than I expected! So well written and moving!  FASICNATING & BEAUTIFUL!! This is definitely one of my top reads of 2015!!

[Qhuinn (hiatus) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved reading the majority of the book, then something happened at the 67% mark that dropped my rating from 5 stars to 2.5 stars. Quint ends up sleeping with Daphne, Annie's best friend, and that absolutely crushed me. But we later find out that he never actually slept with her, he only lied and said he did to push Annie away. Even though he never slept with Daphne, he made out with her and that's still being unfaithful in my book. He also didn't care that in doing so, he managed to ruin Daphne and Annie's friendship even more that it already was. So, I couldn't quite forgive Quint for that throughout the rest of the book. Had Annie tried to move on and have a relationship after that happened, it would have been easier for me to stomach, but she didn't. I also feel like Annie gave in to Quint way too easily, he should have grovelled a whole lot more because of the way he treated her and for the things he said and did to her. Annie also ends up forgiving Daphne and continuing their friendship, which also didn't sit well with me. All in all, it was a great book, that became an okay book.

[Debbie Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, A.M. Madden, you sure knocked this one out of the ball park!! I laughed, I snickered, I even snorted a coupled of times. I cried, I sighed, I even walked away a couple of times to keep from throwing my Kindle, across the room. How is it possible for one man to make you fall in love with him, make you want to choke him, make you hate him, and then make you fall in love with him all over again?? Yes, this is the emotions this book put me through, and I loved every single page of it!!
Quint Lawson and Annie Weber, lived next to one another from a very early age. Annie was more of a tomboy than a girl, and her and Quint were inseparable. The only thing that Quint loved as much as Annie was baseball. He had played the game all of his life, and knew he was headed to the pro's. Life is great, and everything is going the way Quint always planned, but even the best laid plans, have pitfalls. When the unimaginable happens, will Annie be all that Quint needs, will they be able to climb the mountain that is placed in front of them? Better mark your TBR list, cause I am not going to spoil this one for anyone.
A little side note to Ann Marie Madden, when I read the Back-Up Series, I really did not think that you could top either of the books in that series, but with each book you write, you have proved me wrong on that one. Keep 'em coming lady, because I could not put this one down, although it did take me a few days to be able to process this one enough to write a review. I don't feel like anything I say can really do this book justice!!
I was lucky enough to be gifted a copy of this book to read. The fact that it was free has no bearing on my review. I loved it!!

[Chancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story!

Let me start by saying, this was such a beautiful story from start to finish. I smiled through the entire beginning, I felt light as air and I walked on clouds with these characters. Since 5 years old, Annie and Quint were best friends, childhood sweethearts and stayed together through college. They were destined for a long life together and they would live the perfect life, all dreams coming true. Quint wanted Annie to follow and obtain her dreams and Annie wanted the same for Quint.
Quint has a second love...baseball. He is amazing at it and she knows he will make the big leagues. He wanted her there with him every step of the way. But then...something happens. I was blown away! My heartfelt feeling of love was instantly replaced with extreme emotion... sadness and frustration and even anger...these characters were forced to endure situations that felt so real and so possible. Like this isn't a fairytale, this is life. Will they overcome this? Will they make it? I couldn't put the book down, I needed to know. I cried a few times reading this book. I yelled at the characters a few times too. They had a very supportive family, they had supportive friends but for a while there, they didn't have each other and that absolutely broke my heart.
This was a very well rounded story for me. I laughed, I cried and I laughed some more. I had all of the feelings these characters had and for me, that makes a wonderful story. When the author can make me think about it when I am not reading. Thank you for this story AM Madden, it was beautiful.

[Janett The Pleasure of Reading Today · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quint Lawson has always have luck on his side, he got the girl early in life, he's gifted when it comes to playing baseball, and through a lot of hard work he has become one of the best shortstops there is. His dream, playing for the Yankees.
But not everything in life stays the same, and when Quint seems to be at the top of his game, personally as well as professionally, tragedy strikes leaving him lost and aloof. Will it be the love of the the game or the love and support of his soulmate, Annie, to bring him back from just existing to living again?
This is a heartfelt, heartbreaking story of perseverance, of battling demons, friendship, and unconditional love. The array of feelings throughout the story and the way they way portrayed are mesmerizing. I've been a fan of A.M. from the beginning, and I can honestly say that she doesn't cease to amaze me with her ability to make the reader part of the story, make them one with the characters. And the Shortstop is prove of that.
From the beautiful, caring and sweet Annie to the strong, persistent, and stubborn Quint, to the amazing well developed secondary characters, Mrs. Madden delivers a story that will inspired you to be better, to reach for your goals no matter how crazy they seem, and to trust the people who stick with you through thick and thin because in the end of the journey those are the ones who will be standing by you.
A must read!

[Letty (Cover to Cover Book Blog Reviewer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quint Lawson is a star baseball player with a wonderful career and great things ahead of him. From the time she was eleven years old and stole his Tonka truck, Annie Weber has been his childhood friend and finally became his girlfriend during High School. Besides his parents, she is the one person supporting him in his dream and is his number one fan.

Each other’s first and only in everything, they have always been close and the chemistry between them is unreal. Everyone tells them how soon they are moving into things, yet they KNOW they will always be together.

But we all know that every great love story comes with obstacles and uncertainty. Just when Quint and Annie feel that complete happiness is finally within their grasp, one simple incident alters their lives and turns everything upside down. They are left with broken hearts and walls that appear too high and thick to overcome.
Just as one is determined to break everything down and make their love story continue, the other is just as determined to sever all ties. Who will win in the end?

A.M. Madden continues to grow in her writing and this book proves it. The story flows smoothly and grabs you, allowing you to feel the emotions the characters are going through. They become your friends and there is nothing you want more than to make sure they get their happiness. A sure Homerun for A.M. Madden!!!

[Karen Hrdlicka · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first book I read by A.M. Madden, I have been a fan. I was fortunate enough to be able to beta read her latest, The Shortstop. While I am not a huge sports fan, I do enjoy a good baseball game once in awhile. Ms. Madden has a gift for developing great characters, both main and supporting. I love that the characters in the book are regular hard working people, real and down to earth. The author pulls the reader onto an emotional rollercoaster and The Shortstop certainly is one hell of a ride. The author hits the reader's emotions across the spectrum. There are characters that the reader will love, some they will hate, and some that they will want to slap some sense into.

Quint and Annie seem to have it all; a life long love and a bright future. Most readers will envy the relationship of the couple, until the unthinkable happens. The angst and emotion that Quint evokes hits the reader deeply. I found myself loving him, hating him, feeling sorry for him and wanting to thunk him on the head. The interactions between the couple and their friends is realistic and I felt like I had those same conversations with my friends. The banter between Annie and Quint is sweet and sexy and of course the sex scenes are HOT. I think The Shortstop is a perfect summer read.

[Jenny Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. I am a huge fan of this author and this is just another hit out of the park (pun intended)

In this book we meet Quint and Annie. Through most of this book they have the picture perfect story book love story. They met as children had all their first together they attended the same college Q is planning to play pro baseball as soon as he graduates. Everything is coming up roses for them but that would be a boring story if it stayed that way right.

What happens next is something that you won't see coming. This couple will go through ups and downs that will make you laugh, will make you cry, but definitely have you glued to the book until the very last word. This book is a story that anyone can relate to. The happiness isn't as sweet until you understand how you got there.

I recommend this book to anyone and everyone. You will not be disappointed

[Tracey Marec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quint Lawson and Annie Webber were best friends since they were 5 years old. They were joined at the hips and knew that they could always depend on each other for anything.

In high school their "friendship" blossomed into a close relationship that would continue to grow. Annie was always there for Quint and his love of baseball. Besides his dad she was there for all his games.

After college they were on top of the world. Quint could start to live his dreams with his soulmate right next to him. But we live all our dreams without the bottom falling out?

Join Quint, Annie, Billy and Daphne on a journey of friendship, love and heartbreak. The Shortstop by A.M. Madden is a story that could happen to anyone one of us if you believe in your dreams and follow your heart.

[Tracy Holowczenko · Rating 5 out of 5]

A.M. Madden hit it out of the park with Shortstop. Annie moves in next door to Quint when they are 5. They are inseparable and friendship turns to love. Quint lives and breaths baseball and Annie. They graduate from college and begin living the dream. Their lives are perfectly planned out, Quint will play ball and Annie will support his dream any way she can. Life is perfect, in a moment everything changes and Quint's lifelong dream is over and their world comes crashing down. This was such a beautiful story, full of passion and heartbreak. I am a huge fan of A.M. Maddens and am devoted to going on whatever journey she wants to take me on.

[Michelle "Chelle" Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I was honored with an ARC copy of this amazing book for an honest review**

I swear I fall in love with A.M. Madden's book more and more everyone I read!! The Shortstop is an absolutely amazing book about true love that can with stand all. Quint and Ann completely warm my heart. I completely felt for these two through everything. These prove that love is strong even at its darkest it can survive. A.M. Madden does so well at showing not only the strength of her characters but also their weakness and how they can overcome. This story truly and completely made me feel like no other.

[Malene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phew! This book brought out every emotion in me and I loved it. Even though at times it was painful as hell. I won't tell to much about it. This book has to be experienced. Everything worked for me. A beautiful story with ups and downs and layered and interesting characters. I loved both the hero and heroine but also the minor characters. I don't know what else to say than read it. When a book makes me cry, then I know I hit the jackpot. And this book was it. Thank you A.M. Madden for sharing Annie and Quint's story.

[Kathleen Lemke (Kathy Page) · Rating 4 out of 5]

My rating: 4 stars

What I loved: I loved how Quint(H) really didn’t have sex with Daphne. I also loved how much him and Annie(h) loved each other. They were each other’s first and last which is rare in books.

What I didn’t like: I wanted Annie to make Quint suffer a little more especially him kissing Daphne and lying about having sex with her (I would have loved for her to keep pushing him away so he knew how it felt)I also wished we got to read the conversation between Annie and Daphne becoming friends again instead of the author just telling us.

***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: H and h have been friends since they were young with their mom’s being best friends. When they get older their relationship turns from friendship to girlfriend/boyfriend. They both go to the same college together where the H plays baseball. H and h have best friends they share a place with who are also dating each other. The friend’s relationship is rocky. H proposes to the h the last week before they graduate. He goes to play baseball and h follows with intentions to continue on her education. H is picked to play for the Yankees. While playing for them he gets hurts, injuring his knee. H knows he will no longer be able to play professional baseball and gets angry/depressed. Thinking it’s not fair to drag the h down with him, H starts to push her away. h continues to support him even when he treats her like shit. H finally tells her he can’t be with her anymore and she moves out. h continues to text and call the H but this makes him even more angry and depressed. H turns to taking pain pills to help with his feelings along with drinking. H even pushes his parents and friends away. h goes to see the H in physical therapy and asks the therapist to text her with updates. When h goes out with her best friend, she slips and tells the h that she has always have been in love with the H. h upset leaves and stops talking to her. The best friend goes to the H to tell him what she said but he kicks her out. On what is supposed to be their wedding day the h reaches out to the H. Again the H is mad and realizes that the h isn’t moving on with her life decides to get drunk and take pills. He calls the best friend and when she comes he gets her drunks and they start kissing. The next day, when the best friend wakes up, she ask if they had sex and he says yes. H proceeds to tell his friend. His friend tells him he is done being his friend and goes to tell the h. h devastated, goes to his parent’s house to give back the engagement ring. She also throws her wedding dress away. H still getting high and drinking gets a phone call telling him his mom had a heart attack. Hearing that the H goes to the hospital and realizes he is messing everything up. He tells his parents why he pushed the h away and that he lied about sleeping with the best friend. H goes to see the h and tells her the truth, apologizes and that he still loves her. h tells him to get out. H gets clean and starts getting better. h goes to see the H and she tells him she still loves him but she still needs time. h finishes college and finally moves back in with the H. H proposes again and this time they get married right away. HEA with them having two kids.

Final thoughts: I had this book for a while and I’m glad I finally got around to reading it. I would love to read Billy’s book, if he has a book.