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Out of His League
Sometimes you've got to leave your heart on the field
Gretchen Harper has always been practical. Dependable, solid, predictable. She’s never taken risks, and she’s especially never bought coffee for gorgeous professional athletes in airports. That is, until she meets her favorite baseball player on the worst day of his career.
Being sent to the minor league is just the first of Joshua Malvern’s many worries―he’s got an injury that won’t heal and his entire career and future are on the line. When a beautiful woman offers him coffee, that simple kindness is exactly what he needs to lift him out of his funk. He asks her to join him in first class, not expecting to end up joining her in bed.
What starts as a one night stand ends up holding the promise for so much more. And while stepping out of her comfort zone has never been Gretchen’s style, for a chance at true love she’ll have to decide whether she’ll swing for the fences, even if it means striking out.
Gretchen Harper has always been practical. Dependable, solid, predictable. She’s never taken risks, and she’s especially never bought coffee for gorgeous professional athletes in airports. That is, until she meets her favorite baseball player on the worst day of his career.
Being sent to the minor league is just the first of Joshua Malvern’s many worries―he’s got an injury that won’t heal and his entire career and future are on the line. When a beautiful woman offers him coffee, that simple kindness is exactly what he needs to lift him out of his funk. He asks her to join him in first class, not expecting to end up joining her in bed.
What starts as a one night stand ends up holding the promise for so much more. And while stepping out of her comfort zone has never been Gretchen’s style, for a chance at true love she’ll have to decide whether she’ll swing for the fences, even if it means striking out.
249 pages, Paperback
First published December 15, 2019
120 people are currently reading
18400 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Richardson
2 books106 followersCaroline Richardson swung a leg over a horse at the age of four, forging a passion and love for horses that eventually became her first career. She has galloped racehorses, show jumped and evented, herded cattle, and ran her own stable for many years. Now, Caroline writes that world into her books, revisiting a way of life that has fundamentally shaped who she is today.
Caroline grew up just outside Perth, Ontario, Canada and now calls the Nation’s Capital Ottawa home. These days, instead of spending summers on a horse, she travels with her husband and two teenage children in their RV, exploring and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Find her on social media as @carolinerichardsonauthor on popular platforms, and @mustangsabby on Wattpad.
Caroline grew up just outside Perth, Ontario, Canada and now calls the Nation’s Capital Ottawa home. These days, instead of spending summers on a horse, she travels with her husband and two teenage children in their RV, exploring and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Find her on social media as @carolinerichardsonauthor on popular platforms, and @mustangsabby on Wattpad.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 570 reviews
October 16, 2025
"Best damn coffee I've ever bought"
(Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for a review)
I've read this book once on Wattpad Paid Story, and best bet I did enjoy it years back. After rereading this, I realized that the book is fair to middling. There weren't many things going on, and the romance is probably the most interesting aspect of the book (thanks to the smutfest) which that's about it.
Putting insta-lust and miscommunication in a book is also likely not the best mix to opt for. Their first encounter was shallow and touching each other after two minutes just doesn't make sense. Like, trust me, you do that now, and I'll make sure you get that harassment report sent to you.
This book is short enough, but it could've been shorter since the subplot was tossed as a quick attempt to create more storyline; the big mouth Sharla scene, the Neptune part. All the conflict is pretty unnecessary which then highlighted the fact that this book lacks a solid plot.
Nevertheless, if you're looking for a short enjoyment of adult romance, perhaps this book could help you fulfilling it. Other than that, this was an okay read.
July 26, 2022
1 star ☆ As I started reading this, it was going so well. The coffee scene was cute and then after that, it went downhill fast.
I didn’t like this at all. Their relationship was so quick and rushed. (I mean if you don't mind love at first sight then go ahead but still mind you that it's not that good too)
Like this part where it is only 11% from the book and they already kissed- likeee what?? where’s the build-up? the chemistry?
"I've been wanting to do this," he murmured, and then kissed her.
I know that this was like lust/love at first sight but please- They only just met like a few hours ago and then they’re already kissing and saying stuff like this?? um anyway.
another part on 17% from the book…
"I want you naked and under me," he murmured, ghosting his lips over her mouth to her ear. She let her head hang back, exposing her neck, shivering. He brushed his lips there too, still moving with the beat. He could have taken her right there, on the dance floor, he was that riled up.
"Now," he added, and she brushed her leg over his crotch. His dick twitched and a wicked look stole over her face.
I'm up for smut but why are we going too fast?!!! And most of the time it was cringey-
A good thing about this book was it’s short since it’s only 250 pages but maybe that’s why their relationship was happening so fast?? Still, I just can’t- but this book’s cover and synopsis catch my interest right off the bat. Like, look at the cover !! It’s soo cute but on the inside? I felt betrayed. 🥹
Thank you to NetGalley and Wattpad Books for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t like this at all. Their relationship was so quick and rushed. (I mean if you don't mind love at first sight then go ahead but still mind you that it's not that good too)
Like this part where it is only 11% from the book and they already kissed- likeee what?? where’s the build-up? the chemistry?
"I've been wanting to do this," he murmured, and then kissed her.
I know that this was like lust/love at first sight but please- They only just met like a few hours ago and then they’re already kissing and saying stuff like this?? um anyway.
another part on 17% from the book…
"I want you naked and under me," he murmured, ghosting his lips over her mouth to her ear. She let her head hang back, exposing her neck, shivering. He brushed his lips there too, still moving with the beat. He could have taken her right there, on the dance floor, he was that riled up.
"Now," he added, and she brushed her leg over his crotch. His dick twitched and a wicked look stole over her face.
I'm up for smut but why are we going too fast?!!! And most of the time it was cringey-
A good thing about this book was it’s short since it’s only 250 pages but maybe that’s why their relationship was happening so fast?? Still, I just can’t- but this book’s cover and synopsis catch my interest right off the bat. Like, look at the cover !! It’s soo cute but on the inside? I felt betrayed. 🥹
Thank you to NetGalley and Wattpad Books for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2022
I've never read a book with an average rating as low as this one (2.92)...and sure enough, it wasn't that great. But it wasn't horrible either. I was able to finish it without much effort and without getting irritated, so that's gotta be worth something. And maybe since my expectations were low I wasn't disappointed. Plus, baseball player.
It does have insta-love which I didn't mind but you might feel differently. It was also pretty smutty which again I didn't mind but isn't everyone's cup of tea. That having been said, the sex was pretty badly written and especially the sex-dialog was mega cringey.
Nothing too horrible but nothing worth recommending either.
It does have insta-love which I didn't mind but you might feel differently. It was also pretty smutty which again I didn't mind but isn't everyone's cup of tea. That having been said, the sex was pretty badly written and especially the sex-dialog was mega cringey.
Nothing too horrible but nothing worth recommending either.
February 8, 2024
this was fun although it felt a little bit too insta love-y for me tbh. wish it had been longer to allow the relationship to be a bit more developed and to let it stand on a stronger foundation
August 4, 2023
5 STARS!
It's been a long while since I read a good old-fashioned romance, one that wasn't filled with 'shocking' twists or abusive back stories. Out of His League was pure contemporary goodness and I can't wait to read more by this author!
She was falling in love and there was absolutely nothing she could do about it.Gah! I enjoyed this one so much. Solid writing, scorching chemistry, and one of my favorite all-time tropes - a regular girl and a famous guy - all added up to make it a big winner for me.😍😍
It's been a long while since I read a good old-fashioned romance, one that wasn't filled with 'shocking' twists or abusive back stories. Out of His League was pure contemporary goodness and I can't wait to read more by this author!
August 14, 2024
It's being re-released with a cute cover courtesy of...WATTPAD. Regret, I am full of regret!
I did not pay attention when I requested this that it was published by Wattpad, and I gotta be honest, it shows. The characters spend almost the entire book doing it, the conflict is dumb, and the actual formatting of the book is nauseating. I was betrayed by the cute cover, because I reeeeaally didn't like this one.
Thanks anyways to Netgalley.
I did not pay attention when I requested this that it was published by Wattpad, and I gotta be honest, it shows. The characters spend almost the entire book doing it, the conflict is dumb, and the actual formatting of the book is nauseating. I was betrayed by the cute cover, because I reeeeaally didn't like this one.
Thanks anyways to Netgalley.
September 5, 2022
When I finished this book and read that it came from Wattpad, I went “ohhhhh”
March 17, 2022
Romance
Better than Most!
Gretchen Harper has always followed baseball. It was a way to connect with her dad. When she walks to her gate at the airport and sees her favorite player in what seems to be a dejected mood, she spontaneously buys him his coffee. Surprised by the sweet gesture Josh Malvern chats with Gretchen while they wait for their flight to be called. Josh enjoys her company so much that he upgrades her plane ticket and they continue their lively discussion. By the time they reach Vegas Josh and Gretchen both know that they want to spend some time together and that they seem to have chemistry in spades.
What they both think will be one night only, turns into a weekend with both of them wanting more. Unsure of how to make it work and both feeling insecure in the relationship they allow a misunderstanding to come between them. Can't have a love story without a bit of angst, right?
The sex scenes are steamy and this relationship while sparked with chemistry has Gretchen and Josh taking on some major hurdles. Was it perfect? No. I still really enjoyed this romance and look forward to more from this writer.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for my ARC of this novel.
Better than Most!
Gretchen Harper has always followed baseball. It was a way to connect with her dad. When she walks to her gate at the airport and sees her favorite player in what seems to be a dejected mood, she spontaneously buys him his coffee. Surprised by the sweet gesture Josh Malvern chats with Gretchen while they wait for their flight to be called. Josh enjoys her company so much that he upgrades her plane ticket and they continue their lively discussion. By the time they reach Vegas Josh and Gretchen both know that they want to spend some time together and that they seem to have chemistry in spades.
What they both think will be one night only, turns into a weekend with both of them wanting more. Unsure of how to make it work and both feeling insecure in the relationship they allow a misunderstanding to come between them. Can't have a love story without a bit of angst, right?
The sex scenes are steamy and this relationship while sparked with chemistry has Gretchen and Josh taking on some major hurdles. Was it perfect? No. I still really enjoyed this romance and look forward to more from this writer.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for my ARC of this novel.
January 30, 2022
2 stars
Gretchen loves baseball and has never done anything spontaneous in her life. When she sees her favorite baseball player, Josh Malvern, in the airport looking worse for wear, she buys him coffee hoping to just make his day better. What she doesn’t expect is for her weekend trip to revolve around him and the attraction between the two of them.
📚
This book was an unfortunate miss for me. It was flat and unexciting when the book’s synopsis seemed promising. It was simple in dialogue and details and the attraction didn’t read as inticing. I felt no chemistry between the two leads which was unfortunate because the romance was the most interesting thing about this book. The subplots were quick weren’t needed. They seemed to be added just to add words to make the book longer.
The original meet cute was boring and shallow and their attraction only seemed like it was there because they had sex. I otherwise was not moved by it and felt indifferent about the characters. The book was also short but it took me so long to read it. I just was not motivated to pick it up at all.
I also think lack of chemistry could’ve been boosted by being read in the first person narrative. I just didn’t feel Gretchen’s worry of being a new person around Josh or Josh’s anxiety about his career and peers. The characters felt flat and not complex at all as hard as the author tried.
If you want a short read with the very bare minimum of an adult romance, this one is for you.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Gretchen loves baseball and has never done anything spontaneous in her life. When she sees her favorite baseball player, Josh Malvern, in the airport looking worse for wear, she buys him coffee hoping to just make his day better. What she doesn’t expect is for her weekend trip to revolve around him and the attraction between the two of them.
📚
This book was an unfortunate miss for me. It was flat and unexciting when the book’s synopsis seemed promising. It was simple in dialogue and details and the attraction didn’t read as inticing. I felt no chemistry between the two leads which was unfortunate because the romance was the most interesting thing about this book. The subplots were quick weren’t needed. They seemed to be added just to add words to make the book longer.
The original meet cute was boring and shallow and their attraction only seemed like it was there because they had sex. I otherwise was not moved by it and felt indifferent about the characters. The book was also short but it took me so long to read it. I just was not motivated to pick it up at all.
I also think lack of chemistry could’ve been boosted by being read in the first person narrative. I just didn’t feel Gretchen’s worry of being a new person around Josh or Josh’s anxiety about his career and peers. The characters felt flat and not complex at all as hard as the author tried.
If you want a short read with the very bare minimum of an adult romance, this one is for you.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2022
3.5 rounded up
A fun insta love sports romance by a debut Canadian author. I really enjoyed this insta love, dual perspective love story between an MLB player sent down to the minors and the sommelier he meets at the airport on the way to Vegas. The two have a hot one night stand and then have to figure out if they can make a relationship work despite their very different lives. Enjoyable and steamy and definitely recommended! Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance review copy!
A fun insta love sports romance by a debut Canadian author. I really enjoyed this insta love, dual perspective love story between an MLB player sent down to the minors and the sommelier he meets at the airport on the way to Vegas. The two have a hot one night stand and then have to figure out if they can make a relationship work despite their very different lives. Enjoyable and steamy and definitely recommended! Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance review copy!
December 3, 2021
3.25 stars
Cute story with a really interesting premise! While on the way to a wine competition in Vegas, sommelier Gretchen, meets her favourite baseball player, Joshua Malvern, at an airport. Instead of freaking out like a typical fan, asking for an autograph and selfie, she notices that he looks upset and approaches him with a coffee instead. Turns out he’s having a less than stellar season, just got downgraded to the minor leagues and needed a little pick-me-up by way of a pretty blonde stranger.
Their first encounter is very much insta-lust, hot and heavy within the first 12 hours of meeting. This is extremely out-of-character for both Gretchen and Joshua, but they decide to go for it anyway, choosing to live in the present and not bothering with the what-ifs. Obviously—as anyone who reads romance knows—this isn’t just any one night stand. They fall in love, learn to navigate their feelings and a long distance relationship.
In spite of the whirlwind nature of their relationship, I do feel like there is good chemistry between Gretchen and Joshua. This story is very sweet and full of good character internal monologues which relay a lot of their shortcomings, insecurities and dreams.
The initial misunderstanding and conflict caused by Gretchen’s best friend (and over-protective guard dog) Sharla was pretty annoying. I wasn’t so sure about the other subplots too, they ultimately ended up being unimportant and dragged the story out a little. In spite of that, I liked that the author found ways for Gretchen and Josh to be on page together (by infiltrating each other’s thoughts) even when they were physically apart.
Overall, an easy read if you enjoy good steam, low angst and sports romances—baseball, in particular. It is obvious Caroline Richardson loves the sport and knows it well.
Thanks to Netgalley and Wattpad Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Cute story with a really interesting premise! While on the way to a wine competition in Vegas, sommelier Gretchen, meets her favourite baseball player, Joshua Malvern, at an airport. Instead of freaking out like a typical fan, asking for an autograph and selfie, she notices that he looks upset and approaches him with a coffee instead. Turns out he’s having a less than stellar season, just got downgraded to the minor leagues and needed a little pick-me-up by way of a pretty blonde stranger.
Their first encounter is very much insta-lust, hot and heavy within the first 12 hours of meeting. This is extremely out-of-character for both Gretchen and Joshua, but they decide to go for it anyway, choosing to live in the present and not bothering with the what-ifs. Obviously—as anyone who reads romance knows—this isn’t just any one night stand. They fall in love, learn to navigate their feelings and a long distance relationship.
In spite of the whirlwind nature of their relationship, I do feel like there is good chemistry between Gretchen and Joshua. This story is very sweet and full of good character internal monologues which relay a lot of their shortcomings, insecurities and dreams.
The initial misunderstanding and conflict caused by Gretchen’s best friend (and over-protective guard dog) Sharla was pretty annoying. I wasn’t so sure about the other subplots too, they ultimately ended up being unimportant and dragged the story out a little. In spite of that, I liked that the author found ways for Gretchen and Josh to be on page together (by infiltrating each other’s thoughts) even when they were physically apart.
Overall, an easy read if you enjoy good steam, low angst and sports romances—baseball, in particular. It is obvious Caroline Richardson loves the sport and knows it well.
Thanks to Netgalley and Wattpad Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2021
“Out of His League” was a cute story! When Gretchen sees her favorite baseball player at the airport on one of the worst days of his life - she makes the impulse decision to buy him a coffee. When Josh invites her to sit in first class with him to repay her for her kindness it’s not long before both end up in over their heads with each other.
I had a hard time connecting to Gretchen and Josh at first - but wound up becoming a lot more invested in the relationship between their characters a little over halfway through the book and really liked how everything ended up coming together in the end.
Overall I thought this was a cute, simple sports romance that was fun but didn’t really get too deep or draw you in (which is sort of what I was looking for when I read this).
ARC provided in exchange for my honest review.
I had a hard time connecting to Gretchen and Josh at first - but wound up becoming a lot more invested in the relationship between their characters a little over halfway through the book and really liked how everything ended up coming together in the end.
Overall I thought this was a cute, simple sports romance that was fun but didn’t really get too deep or draw you in (which is sort of what I was looking for when I read this).
ARC provided in exchange for my honest review.
December 8, 2021
As someone who lives for celebrity crushes, Out of His League has me wanting to buy any type of celeb that I see a coffee. This was a heartwarming read that all romance readers will enjoy and would be the perfect book/wine club pick. The connection between Gretchen and Joshua was equal parts sweet and steamy!
Thank you to Netgalley and Wattpad Books for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and Wattpad Books for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 12, 2022
Gretchen buys a coffee for Joshua Malvern at the airport, and it’s love at first sight. They encounter a conflict, and have to see if their relationship can make it through.
Let’s start by saying I would have DNF’d this if it wasn’t an ARC. I have a really hard time getting on board with the insta-love trope, and this story line was lacking any substance. It had a lot of steam, but as a reader I felt no connection to the plot or to the characters. There wasn’t sufficient character development and the writing felt really choppy.
I wasn’t a fan and I wouldn’t recommend this one.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Let’s start by saying I would have DNF’d this if it wasn’t an ARC. I have a really hard time getting on board with the insta-love trope, and this story line was lacking any substance. It had a lot of steam, but as a reader I felt no connection to the plot or to the characters. There wasn’t sufficient character development and the writing felt really choppy.
I wasn’t a fan and I wouldn’t recommend this one.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 29, 2023
This book started so cute and turned out so ridiculous. I did NOT like the storyline. There were weird over detailed sections on parts that did not matter. I also had to take a star off for grammatical errors. I’m not someone who normally notices stuff like that but it was so so bad in this book. I did read the kindle version so maybe the physical copy is better but so many people read via kindle these days so you need to make sure your kindle version is just as good.
June 2, 2023
There were good and bad parts to this book. There was little background given about the characters and their relationship felt like it appeared out of thin air. They didn’t have the book I wanted at the library so I randomly pulled this one off the shelves and forced myself to finish it. Although it has some cute moments, I wouldn’t recommend.
February 6, 2022
I really didn’t like this book, I felt like the whole plot and relationship was rushed. I also felt like the one main conflict was kind of stupid and immature, and every other conflict was pretty random and felt forced. (Thank you Netgalley!)
April 11, 2022
While sitting at the airport, Gretchen sees her favorite baseball player coming towards where she’s sitting. He looks upset sitting there, so she decides to go out of her comfort zone and bring him a coffee.
Usually I’m not a huge fan of insta-love but their instant chemistry was AMAZING. These two had an instant connection that I absolutely loved. The only thing I didn’t love about this book was the epilogue. Personally I enjoy when an epilogue is years ahead and this one was only a few months but other than that I really enjoyed this book!
Thank you NetGalley and WattPad Books for this advanced readers copy!
Usually I’m not a huge fan of insta-love but their instant chemistry was AMAZING. These two had an instant connection that I absolutely loved. The only thing I didn’t love about this book was the epilogue. Personally I enjoy when an epilogue is years ahead and this one was only a few months but other than that I really enjoyed this book!
Thank you NetGalley and WattPad Books for this advanced readers copy!
May 18, 2023
this book was everything! the famous baseball player x she fell first he fell harder trope is so amazing. I’m in awe. by the end of the book I could have cried happy tears. I love Josh Malvirn of the Toronto Sixers 😍😍
April 18, 2024
It was fine and enjoyable but wasn't amazing
October 20, 2023
I wanted to DNF but I’m a trooper. The sentences really didn’t connect together which finally made sense once I realized it was originally created on watpad. I also had a hard time with the main male character having the same name as someone I knew— threw me for a loop
June 27, 2023
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Out of His League introduces you to Gretchen and Joshua. She is living my dream of being a sommelier, trying and then potentially buying wines for other people - like restaurants and such. She's also a huge baseball fan ever since she watched Josh play. So, when she spots him at the airport it kind of seems like fate. Sure, she needs to calm down her inner fan and act cool on the outside so she does the only thing she can do - she buys him a cup of coffee.
Now for Josh, I get why he didn't seem concerned about a stranger buying him coffee. He has a lot on his mind, and plate, for that matter since he's back down in the minor league. Not the best time to get the news but he knows he's getting a bit older and maybe the major leagues just aren't it for him anymore. Either way, I just know that I would be freaked out if someone I didn't know shove a cup of coffee into my face and it ended up being one, I actually liked.
Maybe I'm just overly suspicious.
As for their little coffee exchange, things definitely take off pretty quickly. Definitely got insta-everything vibes the entire time. So, it wasn't a complete shock when the other shoe eventually dropped, and he found out how much of a fan she actually was. Sure, he completely overreacted and didn't let anyone else get a word in to explain it all. BUT DETAILS PEOPLE. I came for the love and stayed for it all.
Then there's the other drama. Yes, other than relationship drama we have manager drama. Which also wasn't a big surprise with how his manager acted at one point either. It was just high time for Josh to open his eyes and see it all for the first time. He became a big boy at the end of this book and eventually found true love (or whatever).
In the end, I'm happy that I got the chance to jump into this and watch these two fall instantly in love with one another. It was easy to read within one sitting. No complaints on my end.
Out of His League introduces you to Gretchen and Joshua. She is living my dream of being a sommelier, trying and then potentially buying wines for other people - like restaurants and such. She's also a huge baseball fan ever since she watched Josh play. So, when she spots him at the airport it kind of seems like fate. Sure, she needs to calm down her inner fan and act cool on the outside so she does the only thing she can do - she buys him a cup of coffee.
Now for Josh, I get why he didn't seem concerned about a stranger buying him coffee. He has a lot on his mind, and plate, for that matter since he's back down in the minor league. Not the best time to get the news but he knows he's getting a bit older and maybe the major leagues just aren't it for him anymore. Either way, I just know that I would be freaked out if someone I didn't know shove a cup of coffee into my face and it ended up being one, I actually liked.
Maybe I'm just overly suspicious.
As for their little coffee exchange, things definitely take off pretty quickly. Definitely got insta-everything vibes the entire time. So, it wasn't a complete shock when the other shoe eventually dropped, and he found out how much of a fan she actually was. Sure, he completely overreacted and didn't let anyone else get a word in to explain it all. BUT DETAILS PEOPLE. I came for the love and stayed for it all.
Then there's the other drama. Yes, other than relationship drama we have manager drama. Which also wasn't a big surprise with how his manager acted at one point either. It was just high time for Josh to open his eyes and see it all for the first time. He became a big boy at the end of this book and eventually found true love (or whatever).
In the end, I'm happy that I got the chance to jump into this and watch these two fall instantly in love with one another. It was easy to read within one sitting. No complaints on my end.
February 14, 2022
Summary: Gretchen randomly bumps into her biggest athlete crush in the airport while en-route to Vegas for a work thing. Instead of asking for his autograph, she sees that he’s not in a mood to deal with a fan and instead Gretch buys him a cup of coffee. They strike up a conversation right away, the connection between them obvious and simmering.
Josh just got some bad news regarding his baseball contract and is in no mood to travel to Vegas to the team he was demoted to. However the girl who bought him that cup of coffee makes his mind go into a different direction.
Is this a Vegas-only affair or the real deal?
What I liked:
- The Writing. It’s fun, light and keeps a consistent tone throughout the story.
- The Characters. Both Gretchen and Josh are alright, if a little too flat.
- The Steam. While some of the scenes got a little repetitive, I really enjoyed how this was used as device to build the characters’ connection beyond just the physical aspect.
- The Cover. It’s the first thing I saw and it sold me in the story so I’m counting it in.
- Quick read. You need about 3 full hours to get through it and so it’s super convenient.
What I didn’t like:
> the lack of plot or conflict. While there is a whiff of conflict at the 50% mark where the action takes a quick turn, the other half resumes its smooth sailing from before. There were no stakes, little adversities or things they had to fight in order to be together.
> too insta-lust/love for my liking, especially combined with just how there was no conflict around it.
🌶️🌶️🌶️,5/5
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Josh just got some bad news regarding his baseball contract and is in no mood to travel to Vegas to the team he was demoted to. However the girl who bought him that cup of coffee makes his mind go into a different direction.
Is this a Vegas-only affair or the real deal?
What I liked:
- The Writing. It’s fun, light and keeps a consistent tone throughout the story.
- The Characters. Both Gretchen and Josh are alright, if a little too flat.
- The Steam. While some of the scenes got a little repetitive, I really enjoyed how this was used as device to build the characters’ connection beyond just the physical aspect.
- The Cover. It’s the first thing I saw and it sold me in the story so I’m counting it in.
- Quick read. You need about 3 full hours to get through it and so it’s super convenient.
What I didn’t like:
> the lack of plot or conflict. While there is a whiff of conflict at the 50% mark where the action takes a quick turn, the other half resumes its smooth sailing from before. There were no stakes, little adversities or things they had to fight in order to be together.
> too insta-lust/love for my liking, especially combined with just how there was no conflict around it.
🌶️🌶️🌶️,5/5
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2022
I like baseball lol
March 22, 2022
First off, thank you NetGalley for this eARC!!
This was a super cute read!!!! I really enjoyed the relationship between Gretchen and Josh. The spice????? Don’t let this cover fool you, the spice had me blushing not gonna lie.
I feel like it was a very fast timeline. Very instalove. I didn’t mind it but if you hate instalove you might not like this so just keep that in mind.
It definitely kept me intrigued enough to finish the book and if there was a second book based off Sharla and Kevin I wouldn’t mind (I love forbidden love)
Overall this was a cute book. 4.25 stars!
This was a super cute read!!!! I really enjoyed the relationship between Gretchen and Josh. The spice????? Don’t let this cover fool you, the spice had me blushing not gonna lie.
I feel like it was a very fast timeline. Very instalove. I didn’t mind it but if you hate instalove you might not like this so just keep that in mind.
It definitely kept me intrigued enough to finish the book and if there was a second book based off Sharla and Kevin I wouldn’t mind (I love forbidden love)
Overall this was a cute book. 4.25 stars!
May 28, 2020
this book was really cute, and in my opinion it wasn’t like other books. yes it was similar to sport books but that’s kinda the point, but it was honestly really good and i’m glad i spent my money on it. i would recommend this book as well!! their romance is insanely cute and steamy.
August 7, 2022
I think this was cute if you love the insta love vibes but i hate to say that i was more into the side characters stories than the actual main couple
April 5, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Wattpad Books for the eARC!
Out of His League is a short romance centered around Gretchen Harper, a huge baseball fan, and Joshua Malvern, a professional baseball player. Gretchen is a huge fan of Joshua, who plays on her favourite team, and doesn't believe it when she gets a chance to meet him in an airport! What follows is a one night stand that quickly turns into something more.
The premise for this book is really cute, and I was looking forward to reading this one. Unfortunately it didn't quite hit the mark, and I personally give it a 2 stars. I am not a big fan of insta-love, and that occurred heavily in this book. There was a point where Gretchen says how she didn't know Joshua hated blueberries and can't wait to find out more about him, and I was reminded of how little they knew about the other while somehow being madly in love. If you are a fan of insta-love or quick romances, this book might have more appeal to you than it did to me.
The conflict brought up in the book seemed to only be there as a way to make the book more than just the sex scenes, and I didn't feel a connection or any concern towards the plotline. I did like the baseball references and the author seems like she knows her stuff; I can imagine this being an even better read for someone who likes baseball.
Nice to have the Toronto mentions! Overall this was a quick and easy read; pretty cute, just quite rushed. Also very predictable, but this could be a good book for if you're looking for something light!
Out of His League is a short romance centered around Gretchen Harper, a huge baseball fan, and Joshua Malvern, a professional baseball player. Gretchen is a huge fan of Joshua, who plays on her favourite team, and doesn't believe it when she gets a chance to meet him in an airport! What follows is a one night stand that quickly turns into something more.
The premise for this book is really cute, and I was looking forward to reading this one. Unfortunately it didn't quite hit the mark, and I personally give it a 2 stars. I am not a big fan of insta-love, and that occurred heavily in this book. There was a point where Gretchen says how she didn't know Joshua hated blueberries and can't wait to find out more about him, and I was reminded of how little they knew about the other while somehow being madly in love. If you are a fan of insta-love or quick romances, this book might have more appeal to you than it did to me.
The conflict brought up in the book seemed to only be there as a way to make the book more than just the sex scenes, and I didn't feel a connection or any concern towards the plotline. I did like the baseball references and the author seems like she knows her stuff; I can imagine this being an even better read for someone who likes baseball.
Nice to have the Toronto mentions! Overall this was a quick and easy read; pretty cute, just quite rushed. Also very predictable, but this could be a good book for if you're looking for something light!
November 8, 2021
This is definitely an insta-love romance, which honestly I didn't think I was going to like at first. The smut is front loaded at the beginning which made it feel like their relationship didn’t have a lot of substance. Which, to be honest I'm pretty sure it wasn't supposed to.
Later on Josh and Gretchen ran into some of the classic relationship roadblocks when considering how to mold two very different lives together. Though there was some unnecessary drama--if you have a bone to pick with the miscommunication trope you know what I mean--I believed in their relationship by the end.
The chemistry between these two is undeniable and it was enjoyable to see that raw attraction develop into something more. I really loved Josh's character. He was not the typical attention seeking, or former playboy jock.
I'd definitely recommend checking this out if you like sports romances, or are just in the mood for something a little spicier. Thank you so much to @netgalley and @wattpad for this ARC. Out of His League is out on April 5, 2022 and you can preorder your copy now (link in bio).
Why you should read:
✨Cinnamon roll jock
✨A weekend in Vegas
✨Celebrity crushes
✨Insta love/attraction
✨Lots of smut/spiciness
✨Grand gestures
Later on Josh and Gretchen ran into some of the classic relationship roadblocks when considering how to mold two very different lives together. Though there was some unnecessary drama--if you have a bone to pick with the miscommunication trope you know what I mean--I believed in their relationship by the end.
The chemistry between these two is undeniable and it was enjoyable to see that raw attraction develop into something more. I really loved Josh's character. He was not the typical attention seeking, or former playboy jock.
I'd definitely recommend checking this out if you like sports romances, or are just in the mood for something a little spicier. Thank you so much to @netgalley and @wattpad for this ARC. Out of His League is out on April 5, 2022 and you can preorder your copy now (link in bio).
Why you should read:
✨Cinnamon roll jock
✨A weekend in Vegas
✨Celebrity crushes
✨Insta love/attraction
✨Lots of smut/spiciness
✨Grand gestures
April 2, 2022
This is actually pretty damn cute and I enjoyed it more than I expected to. It read a lot like I imagine fan fiction would, but I liked it all the same. It started out on the slow side, but after a short while I was sucked in.
Gretchen, a big baseball fan, spots her favorite baseball player, Josh Malvern, looking distraught at the airport. Instead of asking for an autograph, she buys him a coffee and comforts him on his temporary demotion to the minor leagues. They are both en route to Vegas and after Gretchen’s kind gesture, Josh invites her to sit next to him on the plane. They have this palpable attraction and end up seeking each other out multiple times on their stay in Vegas.
This book falls under the “just a hookup” to insta love trope, which I didn’t mind under the circumstances. The pacing was well done. This is definitely more of an escape read (most celebrity/sport romances are, IMO). I was also pleasantly surprised by the level of spice this one packed in.
This was a good book, but it was quite predictable with the main crisis feeling a little forced. I wouldn’t expect two individuals in their late 20’s and early 30’s to fall victim to a simple misunderstanding, which is why this ultimately lead to a 3 star rating.
Gretchen, a big baseball fan, spots her favorite baseball player, Josh Malvern, looking distraught at the airport. Instead of asking for an autograph, she buys him a coffee and comforts him on his temporary demotion to the minor leagues. They are both en route to Vegas and after Gretchen’s kind gesture, Josh invites her to sit next to him on the plane. They have this palpable attraction and end up seeking each other out multiple times on their stay in Vegas.
This book falls under the “just a hookup” to insta love trope, which I didn’t mind under the circumstances. The pacing was well done. This is definitely more of an escape read (most celebrity/sport romances are, IMO). I was also pleasantly surprised by the level of spice this one packed in.
This was a good book, but it was quite predictable with the main crisis feeling a little forced. I wouldn’t expect two individuals in their late 20’s and early 30’s to fall victim to a simple misunderstanding, which is why this ultimately lead to a 3 star rating.
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