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Espen Emperors #3

Catcher Interference

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Marcus Warnes. The catcher at the top of his game.

A knack for smack talking, a master play caller, and the quickest pop time in the league. The world saw the team playboy when all he wanted was to settle down with someone. To find the one. Marcus longed for holidays at home and a family to spend them with. His time in the spotlight didn’t make it easy to find.

Along came Kasper Wilder, a billionaire bachelor that every single man in the city wanted.

Kasper, owner of the Espen Jetties, showed the world very little of himself. They saw the businessman. The one who made money with every decision. What he kept to himself was the desire to find the one man who could heal his broken heart.

He’d been burned once before and wasn’t ready for it to happen again.

Marcus drew Kasper in instantly. The problem—Marcus was looking for the woman of his dreams, not the man. He hadn’t planned on Kasper being everything he’d been looking for in a partner.

Kasper knew Marcus had the ability to break down every wall he built. He just wasn’t sure he could trust someone who’d never been with a man before.

Broken hearts didn’t always heal. The pain too deep or the cuts too sharp. Sometimes you had to jump in with both feet.

The batter was up. The pitch called. Marcus had to decide if he would catch the ball.

312 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 30, 2021

70 people are currently reading
90 people want to read

About the author

Haven Hadley

10 books64 followers
Haven Hadley is romance writing duo Rebecca Brooke and Michelle Dare. After being friends for years, they decided to venture together into the genre they both loved to read—M/M. Slow burn, sexy, angst-filled stories are their favorite. Both are wives and moms who love dogs, the beach, and baseball, even if they root for rival teams. With every Haven Hadley book, you’ll get stories filled with emotion, romance, hot scenes, and a happily ever after.

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5 stars
203 (46%)
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159 (36%)
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65 (14%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for ~Nicole~.
851 reviews406 followers
September 30, 2021
It was an ok read up until Marcus told Kasper that he understood why his ex cheated on him. No matter what the issue was you don’t take someone’s vulnerability and throw it in their face. That was a low blow , uncalled for ..And he didn’t even apologize. Not to mention that nothing condones cheating. I couldn’t like Marcus after that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Véronique Laplante Grenier.
1,216 reviews8 followers
September 6, 2021
Catcher Interference is the third book in the Espen Emperors series by author Haven Hadley. It's a continuation of what happens in the first two books but can act as a standalone.

Marcus is a catcher for the Espen's Emperors and being in the spotlight doens't help him with that he wants to settle down with someone and have a family. He always have seen himself as straight but then came Kasper, He's the owner of the Espen Jetties and a billionaire bachelor that every guys would want for himself. Kasper have been hurt in the past and do no longer want to date athletes but when he saw Marcus he's drew to him instantly, They will decide to try this even if it could get complicated as Marcus might be trade to another team.

I have really loved this book and looking foward to read the next one. I have received an arc of this book from the author and booksprout.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.7k reviews360 followers
September 10, 2021
Marcus and Kasper . . .

Marcus Warnes is the catcher for the Espen Emperors. He was seen as the team playboy, but he actually was ready to settle down with someone he could love, the woman of his dreams. Kasper Wilder, a billionaire bachelor, is the owner of the Espen Jetties Hockey team. Kasper recognized in Marcus all the qualities he was looking for in someone special that would heal his broken heart and be someone he could love. But Marcus always dated women and Kasper had to move slowly or risk being hurt if he misjudged the situation.

So both of them had a great friendship and got to know each other. But when they both realized how they felt, could Kasper risk a relationship with someone who had never been with a man before? On the other hand, was he willing to walk away and lose someone he cared about without making the effort?
Profile Image for Dani Elle Maas.
1,011 reviews14 followers
February 3, 2022
brilliant read. The best in the series so far
Couldn't stop reading till deep into the night
I loved Marcus and Kasper!
Profile Image for Heather Richardson.
124 reviews4 followers
September 10, 2021
Let me start by saying if I could give this one more than 5 stars I would. I have been waiting on Kasper's story since book one and it was definitely worth the wait. There were so many things to like about this book, but I mainly liked how sexuality wasn't a huge focus like in the first two books of the series. Kasper and Marcus had me feeling things from the moment they met. This was one of those books that the angst was so worth it when they finally had their first intimate moments. I couldn't wait till they had those moments and when they did it was just magic.

Kasper is the owner of the Espen Jetties Hockey team. He's a rich, successful, sexy, and all-around great man. He's been hurt in the past so he guards his heart with everything he has. Marcus is the catcher for the Espen Emperors and again an all-around great man. He has everything that a man like Kasper deserves. Marcus wants to make it on his own and do whatever he can to earn a contract extension to stay with the Emperors. When Kasper meets Marcus, he knows there's just something about him that he is attracted to. Kasper knows that the only way to get to know Marcus is to become his friend. Although he feels something for him, he doesn't push things because he knows Marcus has only ever dated women and he doesn't want to get hurt again. Marcus is of course oblivious to Kasper's feelings toward him until Kasper decides he's going to start flirting. Marcus doesn't realize it at first, then it's like a lightbulb goes off in his head and he realizes he has feelings for Kasper as well. When Marcus gets the news he may get traded, he's devastated. He doesn't want to leave his teammates nor his life with Kasper. Kasper knows this and will do anything he can to keep him in Espen, but could his plans to keep Marcus in Espen cause him to lose him altogether? Can love be enough?

I loved the chemistry and the back and forth between these two characters. You could feel the growth the two characters made both together and apart from the beginning to the end of the book. Their growth together was what made this story special. I'm just so excited they were able to find peace and give each other the love they deserve.

I would highly recommend this book and this series to all readers that sports and romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Monique.
444 reviews4 followers
June 8, 2023
📖 2.75 rounded up.

So I was on board with this book all the way until the third act breakup. Which I’m seeing is a consistent thing with this series.

Marcus has his bi awakening when he realizes that his friendship with Kasparov is actually more. I love that after a brief freak out he jumps into it and they actually have adult conversations about what’s going on.

What I don’t like is that we are transported through time and don’t see their relationship develop (again pretty consistent with the previous books) we just get one important scene and then flash forward and they say it’s been weeks of getting to know each other since _____ event.



****spoilers****


So my issue and the low rating is because after Marcus hears about the deal between Tom (baseball team owner) and Kasper buying the football team together he confronts Kasper because he is no longer going to be traded: it brings up a lot of issues, which I 100% understand “.

So what REALLY had me livid is Marcus saying this line

“Maybe this was why Hunter cheated on you. He saw you for who you really are. Someone who only thinks about himself. About what you want. How you feel. Not about the person on the other side of the relationship.”


And then he leaves Kasper and tells him to never talk to him again.

After a month and having 3 different people telling him to analyze why Kas actually did what he did, he finally realizes he loves him yada yada. But that comment was never addressed. Marcus literally just gets a ring, after weeks of no contact, knocks on Kas’ door and proposes……. Kasper let’s him in and they talk and Kasper apologizes again and then they have sex and make up.


Im sorry but no. When you spew hurtful shit like that in a heated argument and then leave and have no contact. After that comment, the rest of the book was soured for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Stefanie Kral.
761 reviews25 followers
September 28, 2021
✯✯5 Kasper & Marcus Filled Stars!!!✯✯

Argh I’m in love with this series!!! I’ve read the first two books in this series and after the last book I was dying to get Kasper’s story. I’m so happy I didn’t have to wait long for it.

Kasper is the owner of the Espen Jetties, the hockey team as well as owning his own airline. He’s been in the spotlight awhile. He’s gay and been out a long time. He was dating a hockey player and got his heartbroken and he swords he’d never get involved with another athlete again.

Kasper meets Marcus thru his best friend Evan and his boyfriend Vander. Kasper knows Marcus is straight so he’s OK being strictly friends. Over time it’s getting harder and harder to keep his feelings in check. When one thing leads to another he realizes the feeling’s are mutual. When Kasper learns that Marcus might get traded he’ll do whatever he can to stop that from happening. Kasper’s just hoping by doing that it won’t scare Marcus off before they really become something.

Marcus is the catcher for the Espen Emperors and at the top of his game. He loves his teammates, the management, the fans and the town. He’s been spending more time with Kasper since they’ve got mutual friends and they’re the two single guys.

Marcus is envious of his teammates who are finding love and settling down one by one. Marcus is looking to find the woman of his dreams and settle down and start a life.

The more time he’s spending with Kasper the more fun they’re having. Marcus finds himself spending all his free time with Kasper. When Kasper flirts with Marcus he’s caught off guard. Marcus has never been with a guy before but when Kasper flirts Marcus quickly realizes he’s not against it and he’s willing to give it a shot with Kasper.

Marcus is enjoying his time with Kasper and he’s doing great on the field. When Marcus gets called into the owner’s office Marcus us hoping they’ll be giving him a long term contract and instead the rug gets pulled from under him. They might be teasing him.

Marcus hopes they won’t trade him. ESP since him and Kasper are still new in their relationship. Kasper assures Marcus that even if he gets traded they’ll make it work. Kasper owns an airline and it’ll come in handy LOL.

When Marcus gets his fate for his career with the Espens he’s shocked. It’s also when the new business venture Kasper’s gotten into is announced. It causes a blowout between the two and they’re not sure what’ll happen next.

I read this book in one day. I’m in love with Marcus and Kasper! Kasper’s even better than I imagined he would’ve been. When I tell you that these two are hot. I mean they’re smoking sizzling hot!!!

I’m looking forward to reading Ayden’s story next. Every book gets hotter and hotter so I’m ready for this series to continue.
Profile Image for Jackie.
1,628 reviews7 followers
September 17, 2021
omg absolutely loved!!

Loved this story. One of my faves. And it only makes being able to pick a fave after each story that much harder. I have loved jasper from the beginning as well as Marcus. They are amazing friends and just all around livable characters. Watching their friendship evolve was beautiful. And that moment when Marcus confronts Kas about flirting with him to end up kissing. Wow! Talk about jumping in with both feet. But that is Marcus and what I love about him. He knows what he wants and goes for it. Then thinks about it after. Their relationship was amazing. And heartbreaking to watch when they had troubles. I get where both guys came from. Kas did it from a place of love although he didn’t want Marcus to be away from him it was predominantly or give Marcus what he wanted. And Marcus had a right to be pissed off. Kas did it behind his back without consulting him. Then proceeded to hide it from him until Marcus confronted him. He messed with his career and made him question his position on the team. They both had valid points but when love is involved. All bets are off. Loved this story. Can’t wait for more!!!
2,182 reviews14 followers
September 12, 2021
This was a beautifully told story about how love can happen when you least expect it. Marcus is a Catcher for the Espen Emperors who's always in the spotlight and Kasper who's 12yrs his senior owns the Espen Jetties Hockey team he happens to be gay and he's used to the spotlight. Marcus has always been heterosexual so when they meet they strike up a friendship which is perfectly fine with Kasper since he's been hurt before so now he guards his heart like fort knox and Marcus is on the lookout for the perfect wife to be the mother of the kids he wants. Imagine their surprise when they start to develop feelings for each other especially Marcus who's never had feelings for a man before he's always been straight. You really need to go on their journey with them as it's beautifully done. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers I will say that you must read this book it's wonderful. I can't wait for the next book in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,024 reviews19 followers
September 10, 2021
These two men are both talented men in the spotlight. Marcus is a baseball catcher whose public persona does not fit his personal desires. He is not looking to go out and have a good time. He wants to settle down in a good relationship with someone who is there for him, not the spotlight. Kasper is a bit older and the wealthy owner of a hockey team. He has had his heart broken and he is looking for someone to love. They start out as friends and that friendship deepens and takes them both by surprise. Marcus because he does not expect to find the potential love he is seeking in a man and Kasper because he does not think his straight friend would want him that way. But love can throw an unexpected curve and show up in places you least expect it. This was such a good enjoyable read as well as a thought provoking read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mary.
2,753 reviews23 followers
September 14, 2021
This is a romantic, amusing, sweet and interesting story. When Marcus is introduced to Kasper, he's impressed that the billionaire is so normal and down to earth. They get along well and start hanging out, Marcus being a little lost being the only unattached guy in their group who isn't still into a party all the time lifestyle. The more they hung out, the more Kasper fell for Marcus, but he was afraid to act on his feelings, because Marcus was straight, and he didn't want to lose the friendship. Eventually he did make a move, and Marcus responded, but then left to try to understand what he was feeling. Soon the couple is inseparable, until one of them sticks his nose where it doesn't belong. Kasper is caring, generous and thoughtful. Marcus is determined, impulsive and bold. I loved the storyline and all of the characters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
15 reviews
September 9, 2021
4.5 Stars
As I read this book, the 1st thing I thought was this is a great AWESOME May-December romance. The story is about an older, by 12 yr, gay business/ hockey team owner, Kasper, and his younger straight baseball, Marcus, who start as friends, then become close personal friends. Also, this book shows love in all aspects between friends, family & lovers. Great book to read.

A deep friendship bond grows between these two men. Even though Kasper knows he feels more but believes it's just one-sided. Now the question is, is it one side? As the spring training starts, Marcus realizes how close his friendship is with Kasper and starts looking at his previous male friendships differently. He starts to value the relationship in new with a new lens. How does Marcus understand this change? How will it work for Kasper and Marcus? You need to grab yourself a copy of Catcher Interference to find out. I am not going to give any spoilers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,875 reviews18 followers
September 15, 2021
Delightfully, Hot! Marcus was at the top of his game, single and ready to settle down. Kasper was rich, his business was at the top of it's industry and he was single and ready to settle down. These two men met through mutual friends and built a solid friendship. They stumbled into something more than frindship! Can Marcus admit to being attracted to a man and not quite straight? Can Kasper trust an athlete again? How will they navigate a successful aviation sports owner athlete relationship? These are two of the most easy going loyal likeable men I've met in awhile. A misunderstanding ends up throwing a wrench in the spoke. Can they recover? Will they open the line of communicaton? Can Kasper trust again? Well done! I receive dan ARC and am voluntarily leving a review.
Profile Image for Syd Springer.
4,034 reviews6 followers
September 8, 2021
I thought that this was a phenomenal book! I loved Marcus and Kasper together. I loved the slow burn between these two. Marcus and Kasper are amazing together; the deep connection and chemistry with these two emotional and heart melting. There is a little bit of drama for these two but these two are able to get their much deserved HEA. I could not put this book down and I can't wait to see what the rest of the series has in store for us! I would would highly recommend this book and Ms. Haven as a must read author.

I received a free e-book copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,195 reviews5 followers
September 9, 2021
Marcus struggled with the desire to have a family of his own. His public persona made that difficult to achieve.
Kasper was a bit of a shocker for Marcus. A billionaire and a catch for any man. Well, almost.
Marcus wanted a family with a woman. He didn't see Kasper as having all the attributes he desired in a partner in a male package.
Despite this little internal dilemma, the chemistry was very real and off the charts, amazing.

Everything works out as it is supposed to. Wonderful support, finding the love of your life, and an emotional but worthy, HEA.


**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
Profile Image for Judy.
1,791 reviews
September 10, 2021
I was so happy to see Kasper get his story! He's the owner of the Espen Jetties, hot, rich, gay and very single. He is nothing but professional with his companies (also owns an airline), and to the outside world he has it all. If only that were true. He's had his heart broken by another man and tries to keep that buried deep inside. That is until he meets Marcus Warnes, a catcher on a baseball team is about to turn his world upside down.

The one and only problem with Marcus...Kasper knows he isn't gay....but, is he really straight?

I enjoyed Kasper and Marcus' story and glad it all worked out in the end.
Profile Image for C. Gray.
1,563 reviews16 followers
July 23, 2024
This might be my favorite in this series now. I loved ALL of these characters especially Marcus’s parents and sister, Kasper’s brother, Paz and especially Evan. I hope Paz and Keenan, from Checked Swing, get books. Also, I feel I’m now ready for book two in the Essen Jetties series. 🖤🔥⚾️🔥🖤

My favorite quotes from Kasper:

• There was nothing he could do wrong. Every touch of his sent fire racing across my skin.

• If there were anyone I would lay everything out there for, it was Marcus. He already had my heart. I had a feeling once he was inside me, he was going to own my soul as well.
443 reviews6 followers
September 9, 2021
My favourite of the series. I liked that Marcus embraced his sexuality

Lost stars because:

• I didn't find Evan's sass and snark funny. I found him annoying and obnoxious and since he was in it a lot it effected my enjoyment of the book.

• Marcus owed Kas a better apology after the break up. Zingers he flung included : "No wonder Hunter cheated on you" absolute dick move and he made a grand gesture but never gave a heartfelt apology.
262 reviews2 followers
September 9, 2021
Loved Kasper and Marcus's relationship! It started out as a friendship then turned into a relationship that is hot, hot, hot! The characters were wonderful and the friendships are amazing! They look out for each other which is sweet. The romance between Kasper and Marcus is so hot that it makes you melt. This is a definite must read!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
263 reviews1 follower
February 17, 2022
An HEA That Almost Wasn't

Marcus always thought he was straight, until he became friends with Kasper. Slowly they realized that their feelings were more than friendly and ran much deeper. A cluster of events, misunderstandings and lack of communication drove a wedge between them and threatened to destroy their relationship. Only the intervention of their friends helped to bridge the chasm between them. Great series.
2,535 reviews87 followers
March 4, 2022
Marcus has always believed he was straight, Kasper has a habit of falling for the wrong men. Friendship becomes more. Will Marcus accept his feelings? Will Kasper be able to let past hurts go?

Have to say, I liked that these two built a foundation before moving onto something else. I thought that Marcus accepted things better than most would have. I loved how Kasper put his heart on his sleeve with those closest to him and he was determined to do what he could to keep those he loved happy. Great read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2,386 reviews3 followers
September 11, 2021
Loved it!!

I had been waiting for Kasper's story since the first book! Marcus was perfect for him. I loved how Marcus didn't think twice about his attraction to Kasper. After he made up his mind that Kasper was who he wanted, he went with it. Loved their relationship. Good book! Can't wait for the next book😍
Profile Image for Shayla.
9 reviews3 followers
Read
September 12, 2021
This book is absolutely amazing I love it Hadley definitely did an amazing job on this book you've got the suspense you've got the romance you've got the plot twists it is an amazing book and I'm so happy that Kasper Wilder and Marcus Warens got their happy ever after.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
181 reviews2 followers
September 13, 2021
So happy for Kasper

I am really happy that Kasper got his own HEA. Marcus was just what he needed. If you love seemingly straight guys falling in love with another man in a sport romance then you will love this. A little bit of angst nothing too hectic with steamy moments. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Profile Image for Janet Hunt.
3,538 reviews46 followers
September 14, 2021
I absolutely loved this story!! Marcus is a catcher for Espen's Emperors. Kasper is the teams owner. While Marcus wants a happily ever after, Kasper has been hurt in the past. But they're perfect for one another! This story was fantastic!! This author is one to watch!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mandy Sawyer.
5,024 reviews41 followers
August 21, 2021
Wow. This book has been written so very well. With the see saw of uncertainty this book will have you all gooey eyed over these characters. It’s a modern day fairytale of love that sees no gender. Absolutely brilliant.
Profile Image for MG Lahey.
370 reviews4 followers
May 20, 2023
Loved this story

I have to admit, I love a good story. Kasper and Marcus is definitely one of them. Theirs is a story that proves commitment and persistence matter, and that Love is Love! 💜
1,226 reviews4 followers
September 7, 2021
Catcher Interference is the third book in the Espen Emperors series. I loved it. It is just as wonderfully entertaining and well-written as the first two. I can't wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Cynthia Brooks.
2,339 reviews11 followers
September 13, 2021
Marcus and Kasper meet through friends and are now friends with each other. They realize they want more but Kasper does something to tear them apart. I really enjoyed this book.
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