The Other Side of The Game

Diamond Lake Rattlers #2

by Tiye Love

ALL HE KNOWS IS THE GAME, SHE TAUGHT HIM THERE'S MORE.

Zeke Powers, the best catcher in the Major Leagues, has been reckless too many times and is in danger of losing his baseball contract without the help of his sexy publicist, Jade Maxwell.

The woman he can't (and doesn't try to) resist.

Jade believes she has what it takes to change Zeke's bad-boy reputation if she can just get him to be more open and believe that his personal triumphs are bigger than the game.

Recently divorced from an unfaithful husband, Jade is also wary of their alluring, soulful chemistry that Zeke is temptingly insistent on exploring. Always straightforward, Jade makes it clear to Zeke she doesn't mix business and pleasure, especially with a handsome and charismatic athlete who has never been seen with the same woman twice. Undeterred by Jade's reticence, he knows it's only a matter of time before she succumbs to their magnetic attraction. After all, Zeke didn't beat all odds to have a dream career as a professional ballplayer without persistence and patience.

And Jade Maxwell is so worth the wait.

294 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 30, 2021

About the author

I want my readers to escape their realities and embark on a journey of self-exploration and love when they delve into my books. I have loved reading fiction, thrillers, and romance for years. Although my original (and still) writing interest was YA and self-help books, I received a surprise text one Valentine's Day, and wrote the very first chapter of a romance novel that day. And I became forever inspired to write contemporary and new adult romance - with a twist.

Please take a ride with me, Tiye Love and hold on to your hearts! I invite you to check out my website and join my newsletter at www.tiyelovebooks.com, and follow me on FB @Tiye Love Books, and/or on my IG @tiye28always...

Reviews

[MidnightAce Book Bar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Whew, where do I start? Diamond Lake Series is a co-author collaboration featuring a sports romance troupe. These couples are up against some high stakes; we are not just talking about the stats or Wins or Losses on the field. The Game of Life trumps it all!

On deck, we have Zeke Powers and Jade Maxwell. To the world, Zeke is the best catcher in the league, and he presents himself as someone that is living life on his terms with no approval needed. When the celebrations have quieted, a hangover is not the only thing left in its wake. His inner demons are lurking just underneath the surface.

When his agent orchestrates an image change, he hires a publicist, Jade Maxwell. If Jade can add Zeke to her list of clients, it will be just the boost in business she needs. This referral, by definition, is a conflict of interest because of her ex-husband's recommendation. No one could have anticipated how explosive the chemistry would be at their first meeting.

Jade does what Zeke's agent hasn't been able to do, she is opening doors, and things are looking up for Zeke. He has even agreed to do an exclusive interview. Now, this is where things go left, and the very reason didn't do interviews is exposed. His entire world turned on its axis and, Jade is left holding the bag. Will they be able to right this foul play?

Overall, The Other Side of the Game is a well-written story with great characters. It is engaging, and certain scenes will pull at your heartstrings. Throughout the book, the reader will feel the highs and lows of the characters' journey.

I recommend this book for your reading pleasure it is will find it is well worth the time.

[Toya Davis-Stokley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tiye gurl! I was hesitant to read this, as I do not care for baseball, like at all! But, because it was you, I gave it a chance. Sooooo, glad I did! 😁 This story was lighthearted and fun, then took a serious turn, with a touch of heart wrenching sadness and finally a sweet ending. I didn't know how to take Jade in the beginning, still fooling around with her ex-husband knowing he was a dog! He still was trying to somewhat control her and her career, by using his connections to get her what she wants! Zeke, a ladies man, who partied all the time, but was a very smart and talented guy. All he knew was baseball, and outside of that he felt lost and unsure of himself. When Zeke and Jade met, I swear there was a spotlight shining down from heaven on these two; that chemistry was that hot! Jade was ready to get it in, within the first 10 seconds of meeting him! 😂 Although the chemistry was strong, they butt heads a bit, before their working relationship began to work smoothly. You could tell it wouldn't be long before they gave in to their attraction. I was disappointed in Jade, for pushing Zeke so quickly. She pouted like a child, and pushed him away with the ultimatum. Zeke, not having much experience with relationships, was always upfront with his feelings, and let you know exactly where you stood with him. He was one to take his time to make sure that once he made a decision, it was the right one. That damn Paul is a whole bih! Ughhh.... I wanted to just slap him upside his high yellow face! All that chaos he caused due to jealousy, knowing he still wasn't ready to be the man Jade needed, was selfish as hell! The maturity, grace, and vulnerability that Zeke displayed to clear the air with his parents, speak to his brother and to the media was beautiful! He had indeed learned quite a bit from Jade, about things outside of baseball. Glad that the two stubborn folks could put their pride aside, and get it together. Great read! 👍👍👍

[KBeautiful1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Tiye Love has written another banger Woot! Woot!

Enter Zeke Powers, catcher for the Diamond Lake Rattlers and the best catcher in the Major Leagues. Zeke is a force on the field and off, never marching to anybody's drumbeat but his own. But the constant outbursts and fights are getting in his way. His manager suggests getting a publicist and walks Jade Maxwell.

Jade Maxwell is a publicist and entrepreneur building her business. She is not looking for commitment although she still messes around with her ex-husband from time to time whom she divorced because of his infidelity. Now she has the shot that could catapult her business if she lands Zeke Powers as her client. The problem is that Zeke mistakes her for a groupie when she arrives at his house and what started off as a first bad impression eventually leads to mutual respect and becoming a team along with his agent.

But trying to resist Zeke is equivalent to caging a category 5 tornado both are impossible and their ability to destroy everything within their path is what makes both of them dangerous. Zeke wants Jade (whom he affectionately calls Max) nothing and no one will stop him from getting her. Jade has lost her heart to a man she isn't sure won't break her worse than her ex-husband did.

Let me start off by saying that Zeke is fireeeeee!!! Damn this man was so freaking hot and savage LOL!!! He is totally out of his element when it comes to Max and I loved to see it.

Also, I love that the author wrote about his family dynamic because it explained a lot as to why Zeke is the way he is. A great story of love, triumph, forgiveness, and family.

Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!

[Mrs. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 was the Bomb!!

Jade and Zeke's story had me singing and dancing, clapping my hands all giddy. Sports themed stories are awesome, some of favorites to read. Especially when the writing matches the sport with integrity. This one was about a catcher with a bad attitude and a woman's favorite friend as his tool of choice. Zeke was at the top of his game and part of a talented team, yet they could not produce a winning record. Jade was hired to help improve his imagine and marketability. From the start, there was the intense attraction. I hoped it would not create a problem for them collectively. The chemistry between them had my Kindle pages smoking emulsions of fiery cravings.
I liked the way the story flowed with excellent character development. I could feel the action, the anguish, and the passion in each detail. Listen folks, this story was fantastic.

[CallaLily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Souls

Zeke & Jade find real love, love from deep in their soul. And life happens. To succeed with each other, the trials they go through teach them the missing truths about love they both needed to learn. Starting in a business relationship, that success encourages them to seek out & gain the personal one. Tiye Love tells their story and as a reader, she makes you feel like you're there getting it first hand. From friends💜

[Dafort · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love on the Field

Enjoyed reading Zeke and Jane's journey. She tried to keep it professional, but the heart knows what it wants and Zeke's feelings were the same. When these two meet, sparks fly. Of course there is an ex wanting to interfere. Can Zeke and Jake make a go of their relationship? Download your copy to find out.

[Marshall Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One

Sometimes what we need in life so happens to drop when we least expect it to! That’s what Jade did for Zeke! They are perfect for one another, which is testimony of their journey!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

😍😍😍

This book was the bomb! Jade and Zeke , loved their story. Hope there’s more on The Rattlers in the future.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!

Jade and Zeke were alot but I loved all of it! The chemistry was palpable and it was clear they would not be able to keep their relationship strictly professional. Zeke's story was powerful and inspiring. And let me tell you I am happy that we got to see him show an emotion other than anger. Jade was a woman who knew exactly what she wanted and wasn't afraid to let you know! These two together were a force to be reckoned with. Love love this story and I hope Javier gets one too!

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jade

OK I loved their story, but I digress to say the flash back and repeated scenes from book one annoyed me. It was not necessary to replay those events. I wanted to hear more about Jade and Zeke

[Shahtia Gay-hairston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

I’ve been on a sports romance kick lately and this was a perfect Friday read! Jade was about her business until she met Zeke. Baseball ⚾️ is my favorite sport so I enjoyed seeing the other side of the game.

[latavia barrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

Really enjoyed this book. Can’t wait for more to come. Zeke is one of those you know will be hood with the right one.

[Carolyn King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Good

This series is really good. Zeke new he wanted Jade from the moment he saw her. Jade saw Zeke and felt the instant chemistry between them. They both had some issues they needed to work through. I am so happy that they are together.

[DC · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was really good

I enjoyed this book very much, the only reason this book didn’t get a 5 star, it’s because of the repeating things in the passage we already read in book one. Therefore I had skip over some passages.

[Shadee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Loved the book from the beginning. Finished in less than a day. Send me a Zeke please lol great job! See ya next time

[Olubunmi Akinadewo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely a great read

I love all Tiye Love’s book, they are automatic clicks for me and this one did not disappoint either. I totally enjoyed this story from beginning to the end.

[ethel taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

I loved both books in this series. I would have loved to know if they exon the World Series and if either couple got married I still give both books 5 stars. Ms Love kept my interest throughout. Good read..

[Dédé · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Other Side of the Game (Diamond Lake Rattlers #2) by Tiye Love is about catcher for the Diamond Lake Rattlers Zeke Powers and publicist Jade Maxwell. Bad boy player Zeke is a PR nightmare and in need of a publicist, that’s where Jade enters. From the moment these two meet the chemistry is explosive 🧨 🔥 Jade tries to resist Zeke and keep it professional but she can only resist for so long! I mean Zeke is nasty 😏 his dirty talk is 💯 You’ll want to throw your panties at him! I love when the guy falls hard first and he’s all up in his feelings. Zeke needs this, he’s been in a rut from being on a losing team, unfulfilling one night stands and his strained relationship with his father/ ex manager. Jade needs this as well, her ex-husband is a piece of work with a lot of nerve. I love that some of the history of Black baseball players is given, the background information is important to the man that is Zeke. The friendships between Jade and Stormi as well as Zeke and his teammates were such positive representations of adult friendships. Overall this is a great read that left me feenin for more! I’m excited to read the rest of the series!

[Cassandra Jerido · Rating 3 out of 5]

Same Old Tired Storyline

Even though book one and two of this series was written by different authors the female characters of both books are one and the same. What’s up with these women who are so stubborn that they cannot even apologize or take advice or see that they’re part of the problem. Duh, that’s a serious character flaw. Then on top of that, they’re both fearful. Another red flag. Fear is stagnating. So your whole book is built around a stubbornly afraid female who is afraid of growth. Both of which needs some serious therapy and definitely not a man. So now we’re frustrated as each chapter goes by until the end where the female finally gets an epiphany that maybe she should just go for it. It’s a shame that we have some really talented writers out here that’s afraid to really challenge themselves creatively and write a good book!

[*Ebony I* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Growing through love

I was eager to hear Jade and Zeke's story after reading the first book in the series and I really enjoyed it. Jade was recently divorced when she first met Zeke and the wall she thought she had up, he ran right through. Their chemistry was off the chain. As both their work and personal relationship flourished, Jade wanted more. Zeke had a lot of issues from the past that he needed to work through and it seemed to hinder his ability to move forward. What I loved most about their relationship was the growth each of them experienced. He became more confident, eased his temperament, open, and vulnerable from her influence. Although, she was stubborn she became willing to forgive and her heart opened up for more love.

[Terra Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two things...

Tiye always does well when crafting her stories is providing a black history lesson and addressing mental health issues. This time the lesson involved the first black baseball catcher Josh Gibson, whose career was eclipsed by that of one Jackie Robinson. Great background was provided in an area where I'm not particularly versed, as she as done with quite a few of her releases. Tackling mental health concerns has always been one of her storyline strengths as well. I enjoyed Zeke and Jade's story and I'm glad I finally took the time to read one of two releases authored by Tiye in this series. When I heard that the MMC for Tiye's upcoming release, Zuri's Blues was introduced in this book, that was my motivation to make time for this one before Zuri's book drops. If not for a few editing misses, this would have been a five star read for me. And I plan to read JC, Javier and Mercury's stories too! The glimpse we got of each of these supporting character's lives was just enough to pique my curiosity and the need to see how their story plays out.

[Sabrina Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly Loving Someone, Is Not A Game

Zeke and Jade’s chemistry was fire. They clicked from the moment they met. This story takes you through their journey to find that everlasting love. But first they have to dig deep within themselves and resolve issues from their past. Their love for one another gets sweeter as they realize that they need each other to survive. Kudos to Tiye Love on another awesome book.

[Kizzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful!

This is a story about not being able to properly love someone if you’re still carrying baggage from the past. It’s also a story about perception and how you incorrect and unfair it can be. I love how this book also tackled the issues of social injustice.

[V. Rena · Rating 5 out of 5]

The One

The chemistry between Zeke and Jade is off the charts. How fitting is her perfume called "The One," forecasting their destiny. They feed off of each other, pushing each other to be a better version of themselves and encouraging each other to risk it all for love.

[CaroMommie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books of the year, this story is everythiiiing! From start to finish with all the ins and outs & ups and downs I was engaged and stuck in one spot the whole day through.

I looooved this book❣️

[PATRIS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

Although it was a book of fiction, the storyline of racial injustice, forgiveness, taking responsibly for our actions and inactions read like a self-help book with a dose of romance. Job well done. I am on to book 3.

[Lee Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Other Side of The Game 2

Sometimes cutting ties completely to your past gives one an opportunity to grow and learn from previous highs and lows of being in an union with another…

Breathe, Think, and Move Forward without Regret

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

so many emotions. so many words I want to say but won’t in fear of spoiling it, so instead I’ll say: read it!

[April Pichon · Rating 5 out of 5]

more pleaseeeee

I loveeeeeeee this series cab we please get more I couldn't put the book down omg love it 😍 ❤

[Gloria]

Play ball

This book was pretty good Zeke was a nonsense man he made you sit up and take notice and he wanted Jade with a passion.