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Charlie Fightmaster and the Search for Perfect Harmony
From #1 bestselling author Joe Siple (The Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride) comes another of his distinctly authentic tales of redemption and love.
When Charlie Fightmaster gets the call-up to the Major Leagues, all of his dreams are about to come true. But word that his little sister, Pippin, is struggling changes everything.
Charlie returns to his childhood home, joins the amateur baseball team his father coaches, and begins helping Pippin with her dream of making the best baseball bat ever made.
Charlie meets Bud Crawford, a reclusive local legend who reluctantly teaches him the three secrets to finding perfect harmony at the plate. But when Charlie’s life begins to collapse, culminating in a terrible accident to Pippin that he caused, Charlie must learn to use Bud’s secrets to find perfect harmony not only on the baseball field, but in the rest of his life as well.
When Charlie Fightmaster gets the call-up to the Major Leagues, all of his dreams are about to come true. But word that his little sister, Pippin, is struggling changes everything.
Charlie returns to his childhood home, joins the amateur baseball team his father coaches, and begins helping Pippin with her dream of making the best baseball bat ever made.
Charlie meets Bud Crawford, a reclusive local legend who reluctantly teaches him the three secrets to finding perfect harmony at the plate. But when Charlie’s life begins to collapse, culminating in a terrible accident to Pippin that he caused, Charlie must learn to use Bud’s secrets to find perfect harmony not only on the baseball field, but in the rest of his life as well.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 10, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 18, 2021
Charlie Fightmaster and the Search for Perfect Harmony is the fourth novel by American author, Joe Siple. On the cusp of achieving his Major League Player dream, Charlie Fightmaster is presented with the one reason he will defer it: his younger sister, Pippin’s worsening struggle with chronic anxiety, possible a product of her abandonment by her mother at a very early age. Despite her vibrance and intellect, her confidence is low, and her nervous tic makes her the target of school bullies.
Compounding this is the news that his father, coach for decades of his hometown’s Sweetwater Stallions, is dying: “…one day ago, I was going to be a Minnesota Twin. Now, I’m headed back to Sweetwater where my sister is struggling and my father is dying. Twenty-four hours can make a world of difference in a life.”
Pippin, thrilled with the return of the brother she idolises, shares her three most fervent wishes: to beat Skyler Shepherd in the State Middle School Science Fair; to create the perfect baseball bat; and for the Sweetwater Stallions to win the Minnesota State Amateur Baseball Championship. Charlie doesn’t take that much convincing to play with the Stallions, and to help his amazingly clever sister make that bat.
During his first practice session he has an unpleasant altercation with a rude old man who then turns out to be the Sweetwater Stallions’ one claim to fame: Bud Crawford. And then Charlie’s performance in their first game is lacklustre.
The real irritant, now he is back in Sweetwater, is the persistent presence of Emily Conroy, the girl he left behind ten years earlier: he knows she must hate him after his appalling behaviour, yet she insists on taking him to Bud Crawford to talk about improving his hitting. Bud will, with some encouragement, reveal the three secrets to the perfect harmony that will improve not just his game, but his life. But that’s not the only surprise Emily has for him…
Siple prefaces each chapter with a short explanation of a baseball term that has some relevance to the content of the chapter. While it isn’t necessary to be a baseball fan to enjoy the story, it is rather heavy on jargon in the final chapters.
At twenty-eight, Charlie seems to be unbelievably immature, arrogant, and self-absorbed. His priorities are definitely askew, although this is perhaps enabled by the deference that everyone around him has always afforded his baseball career. This might be something you need to be a baseball fan to comprehend? And considering his obvious love for his little sister, his intention to return to his career in the summer puts a question mark over his sense of responsibility.
Fans of Catherine Ryan Hyde’s novels may enjoy this feel-good coming of age tale. Just one glaring omission lets this novel down: even when his father’s condition deteriorates to the point he can barely walk, Charlie still plans to leave, to resume his career, and not a single mention is made of what will happen to twelve-year-old Pippin when her father dies.
Siple gives his characters lots of wise words and insightful observations, and the requisite, if slightly predictable happy ever after, but there will be readers who would have wanted to take that quebracho bat and whack Charlie’s head out of the clouds long before he finally came down to earth. One for baseball fans.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Black Rose Writing.
Compounding this is the news that his father, coach for decades of his hometown’s Sweetwater Stallions, is dying: “…one day ago, I was going to be a Minnesota Twin. Now, I’m headed back to Sweetwater where my sister is struggling and my father is dying. Twenty-four hours can make a world of difference in a life.”
Pippin, thrilled with the return of the brother she idolises, shares her three most fervent wishes: to beat Skyler Shepherd in the State Middle School Science Fair; to create the perfect baseball bat; and for the Sweetwater Stallions to win the Minnesota State Amateur Baseball Championship. Charlie doesn’t take that much convincing to play with the Stallions, and to help his amazingly clever sister make that bat.
During his first practice session he has an unpleasant altercation with a rude old man who then turns out to be the Sweetwater Stallions’ one claim to fame: Bud Crawford. And then Charlie’s performance in their first game is lacklustre.
The real irritant, now he is back in Sweetwater, is the persistent presence of Emily Conroy, the girl he left behind ten years earlier: he knows she must hate him after his appalling behaviour, yet she insists on taking him to Bud Crawford to talk about improving his hitting. Bud will, with some encouragement, reveal the three secrets to the perfect harmony that will improve not just his game, but his life. But that’s not the only surprise Emily has for him…
Siple prefaces each chapter with a short explanation of a baseball term that has some relevance to the content of the chapter. While it isn’t necessary to be a baseball fan to enjoy the story, it is rather heavy on jargon in the final chapters.
At twenty-eight, Charlie seems to be unbelievably immature, arrogant, and self-absorbed. His priorities are definitely askew, although this is perhaps enabled by the deference that everyone around him has always afforded his baseball career. This might be something you need to be a baseball fan to comprehend? And considering his obvious love for his little sister, his intention to return to his career in the summer puts a question mark over his sense of responsibility.
Fans of Catherine Ryan Hyde’s novels may enjoy this feel-good coming of age tale. Just one glaring omission lets this novel down: even when his father’s condition deteriorates to the point he can barely walk, Charlie still plans to leave, to resume his career, and not a single mention is made of what will happen to twelve-year-old Pippin when her father dies.
Siple gives his characters lots of wise words and insightful observations, and the requisite, if slightly predictable happy ever after, but there will be readers who would have wanted to take that quebracho bat and whack Charlie’s head out of the clouds long before he finally came down to earth. One for baseball fans.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Black Rose Writing.
September 23, 2021
Author Joe Siple has another must-read novel with CHARLIE FIGHTMASTER AND THE SEARCH FOR PERFECT HARMONY. I admit I felt a little disappointed by the title, which reminded me of how children's books were named a century or more ago (e.g. TOM SWIFT AND HIS . . .). I thought for a moment or two that Mr. Siple had decided to write a series, but any disappointment I felt quickly faded as I got into the story of Charlie Fightmaster and his dream to play pro baseball.
When he's told his father is dying and his younger sister needs him, Charlie returns home to Sweetwater, Minnesota, putting his major league career -- he's just been called up to join the Twins -- on hold. At home, he reconnects with former girlfriend Emily, her dad Mack, her son Oz, and Sweetwater legend Bud. And he discovers that life often throws a few curveballs along the way.
Though God is never mentioned, I find it interesting that a truth is on display here: Sometimes we have to sacrifice our dreams because God has something far better in mind for us.
I received a DRC from Black Rose Writing through NetGalley, for which I thank them. All opinions are mine.
When he's told his father is dying and his younger sister needs him, Charlie returns home to Sweetwater, Minnesota, putting his major league career -- he's just been called up to join the Twins -- on hold. At home, he reconnects with former girlfriend Emily, her dad Mack, her son Oz, and Sweetwater legend Bud. And he discovers that life often throws a few curveballs along the way.
Though God is never mentioned, I find it interesting that a truth is on display here: Sometimes we have to sacrifice our dreams because God has something far better in mind for us.
I received a DRC from Black Rose Writing through NetGalley, for which I thank them. All opinions are mine.
November 2, 2022
Not a fan of professional baseball but...
I loved the message of the book. I had a little trouble sticking with the book due to all the baseball stuff in it, but I am so glad I didn't quit. The theme was hidden at first but still very strong. There is something more important than what it may appear to be a persons highest goal. Relationships, responsibility, and ultimately Life itself.
I loved the message of the book. I had a little trouble sticking with the book due to all the baseball stuff in it, but I am so glad I didn't quit. The theme was hidden at first but still very strong. There is something more important than what it may appear to be a persons highest goal. Relationships, responsibility, and ultimately Life itself.
February 7, 2024
I loved this book, perhaps in some part because I also love baseball. A story that is both sad and happy - sometimes in the same moment.
September 13, 2023
Another one
I like everything about this book. As with all Joe Simples books, they are so heartwarming. This is my third by him but not my last.
I like everything about this book. As with all Joe Simples books, they are so heartwarming. This is my third by him but not my last.
May 29, 2023
I am surprised I can read the words I wrote for this review because of the tears in my eyes. Oh my goodness! What an emotional read. The characters are so richly developed, the relationships beautifully crafted, the storyline one that will tug at your heart. I admit that I'm a huge baseball fan so the lingo and references rang true to me. As with all of Joe Siple’s books, he will take you on a journey of discovery. A lesson of family, friendship, growth, integrity, and love. I fell in love with Pippin and can’t wait for you to meet her. You need to hurry up and buy this book so you can experience a bases loaded home run of a read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
June 11, 2022
Hang in there
This book starts out slow, disjointed, but if you hang in there it gets really good. The story and characters come to life, the story grand you and you have to know How it will end. This is my 3rd Sip
E book, I like his style, his manner of speaking is warm and engaging. I often found myself filling in word for the dialog. I could speak for the characters ☺
This book starts out slow, disjointed, but if you hang in there it gets really good. The story and characters come to life, the story grand you and you have to know How it will end. This is my 3rd Sip
E book, I like his style, his manner of speaking is warm and engaging. I often found myself filling in word for the dialog. I could speak for the characters ☺
December 8, 2021
Library book - a simple yet heart warming story
February 25, 2026
This was my first book by this author, and I think I will for sure look to read more of his books! I really enjoyed the fast-paced nature of the story, while also developing the characters in depth. I didn't feel much of a spark between Charlie and the love interest. The fact that Oz was his son weirdly felt like an unnecessary addition, but also added to the story in an interesting way. I felt like the author could have done more with Bud and the mentor-mentee relationship. There was a lot of baseball theme tied thoughout the whole story, which I loved.
I thought the part where he hit his sister on the head with the baseball bat was a weird and completely unnecessary addition to the story in my opinion. Oh and I BAWLED my eyes out when his dad died.
Overall, looking forward to reading more from this author.
I thought the part where he hit his sister on the head with the baseball bat was a weird and completely unnecessary addition to the story in my opinion. Oh and I BAWLED my eyes out when his dad died.
Overall, looking forward to reading more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2024
A great story for the love of baseball
Loved the beginning of each chapter, explained the details of baseball, for some of us that don't understand. Thank you, Joe.
Loved this: And if we can't find harmony here and now, in this moment, the we will never will. Because the moment we're living is the only one we'll ever have."
Very well written, and enjoyed it. But the best book Joe Siple wrote by far:
The Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride and The Final Wishes.
So that being said, this story of Charlie Fightmaster is a fighter, wants the best for his family. Again, thank you, Joe for the story of love for family.
Loved the beginning of each chapter, explained the details of baseball, for some of us that don't understand. Thank you, Joe.
Loved this: And if we can't find harmony here and now, in this moment, the we will never will. Because the moment we're living is the only one we'll ever have."
Very well written, and enjoyed it. But the best book Joe Siple wrote by far:
The Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride and The Final Wishes.
So that being said, this story of Charlie Fightmaster is a fighter, wants the best for his family. Again, thank you, Joe for the story of love for family.
August 27, 2021
I love Joe Siple's books and I am quite sure I have read them all!
Why? Because there is always a lesson to learn. A lesson of love, friendship, heart and that family is first!
There are wonderful characters that I adore and want as my friends, and I always, no matter what, laugh and cry throughout the chapters.
This novel is just that good!
This story is for anyone, but those who love the game of baseball will no doubt adore Charlie and his little sister, Pippin. How can anyone not?
Excellent, quick read! Well done!
Why? Because there is always a lesson to learn. A lesson of love, friendship, heart and that family is first!
There are wonderful characters that I adore and want as my friends, and I always, no matter what, laugh and cry throughout the chapters.
This novel is just that good!
This story is for anyone, but those who love the game of baseball will no doubt adore Charlie and his little sister, Pippin. How can anyone not?
Excellent, quick read! Well done!
September 18, 2021
An Inside-the-Park Home Run!
Great characters and character-development, a wonderful story-line, and a heart-felt story of selflessness, even when the cost of one's noble act is huge.
Author Joe Siple has written a wonderful book, one sure to be loved, especially, by fans of baseball, but also by anyone else who enjoys a feel-good story that's capable of eliiting a wide range of emotions, not to mention the not-so-occasional tear. A wholesome book that is , truly, a joy to read.
Great characters and character-development, a wonderful story-line, and a heart-felt story of selflessness, even when the cost of one's noble act is huge.
Author Joe Siple has written a wonderful book, one sure to be loved, especially, by fans of baseball, but also by anyone else who enjoys a feel-good story that's capable of eliiting a wide range of emotions, not to mention the not-so-occasional tear. A wholesome book that is , truly, a joy to read.
July 4, 2022
The MC is a man-child baseball player facing some big decisions regarding his career (a chance at the big leagues) and family. The latter of which includes an awkward, 12-year-old sister, and an ailing father. There is also some baggage with his old high school girlfriend. This wholesome and sentimental family drama, set in the mid-West (US), feels like a Disney movie. It reminded me a little of “Field of Dreams” and a “Prayer for Owen Meaney”.
I was gifted a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
I was gifted a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
March 19, 2024
Perfect Harmony
Charlie thinks he knows his secret of happiness. But then, he meets his past and changes that have happened as he chases what he thinks will make him happy. Situations out of his control change everything.
He meets an older man that challenges him to find his perfect harmony.
Charlie realizes how what truly makes him happy is different then he thought it would be.
I stayed up all night reading until I couldn’t keep my eyes open, then woke to finish it.
Ttuly one of the best reads this summer.
Charlie thinks he knows his secret of happiness. But then, he meets his past and changes that have happened as he chases what he thinks will make him happy. Situations out of his control change everything.
He meets an older man that challenges him to find his perfect harmony.
Charlie realizes how what truly makes him happy is different then he thought it would be.
I stayed up all night reading until I couldn’t keep my eyes open, then woke to finish it.
Ttuly one of the best reads this summer.
June 1, 2024
Didn’t like this book as much as other ones by him. Ended with Charlie giving up moving to major league to stay with family in home town because little sister was in a coma. She recovered. Dad died from cancer. He stayed with childhood sweetheart and her son who was his kid that he didn’t know about. They also kept his younger sister with them and were a family. He was going to hit the final home run so hometown team would win the championship. He gave the bat to Duane on the team so he could hit and the team won the championship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2024
Success is more than the things we do
The author, Joe Siple, was able to animate the subject and excite my imagination about and for the game of baseball (i had not been a fan and have had no serious interest in the past), but through intense and vibrant writing made his characters real and relevant, enough so that i might consider a game or two... yet the import of the lessons his different characters taught and/or learned did, in fact, positively and dynamically affect me. Thank you, Joe Siple, for Charlie Fightmaster and the Search for Perfect Harmony.
The author, Joe Siple, was able to animate the subject and excite my imagination about and for the game of baseball (i had not been a fan and have had no serious interest in the past), but through intense and vibrant writing made his characters real and relevant, enough so that i might consider a game or two... yet the import of the lessons his different characters taught and/or learned did, in fact, positively and dynamically affect me. Thank you, Joe Siple, for Charlie Fightmaster and the Search for Perfect Harmony.
August 16, 2021
Powerfully Beautiful Story
I cried, I laughed,I couldn’t put it down. The characters are vividly portrayed and wonderful. The depth of emotion, the exposure of what truly matters in life, the struggles, the drama, all combine to make one of my favorite books. Mr. Siple has done it again. I have read all his books and have loved every minute of each one. You won’t be disappointed.
I cried, I laughed,I couldn’t put it down. The characters are vividly portrayed and wonderful. The depth of emotion, the exposure of what truly matters in life, the struggles, the drama, all combine to make one of my favorite books. Mr. Siple has done it again. I have read all his books and have loved every minute of each one. You won’t be disappointed.
March 21, 2023
Charlie Fightmaster and the Search for Perfect Harmony
Another tale Joe Siple hits out of the ballpark. No baseball knowledge needed to appreciate this story that weaves family, love and the sometimes difficult journey to maturity; that isn’t always attributable to years lived by many of us. Lol. Don’t miss this optimistic and wise story by the accomplished Author of Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride.
Another tale Joe Siple hits out of the ballpark. No baseball knowledge needed to appreciate this story that weaves family, love and the sometimes difficult journey to maturity; that isn’t always attributable to years lived by many of us. Lol. Don’t miss this optimistic and wise story by the accomplished Author of Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride.
December 21, 2023
Another home run!
I have read all three books written by Joe Siple that are available on Kindle. Each one is amazing . They are each a must read. I have purchased hard cover copies of each of the books to give as Christmas presents to my grandchildren. In this troubled world, Mr. Siple's books stand out as a beacon of light. We can change and become a better, more caring and loving us! Keep on writing Mr. Siple . I eagerly await your next book!
I have read all three books written by Joe Siple that are available on Kindle. Each one is amazing . They are each a must read. I have purchased hard cover copies of each of the books to give as Christmas presents to my grandchildren. In this troubled world, Mr. Siple's books stand out as a beacon of light. We can change and become a better, more caring and loving us! Keep on writing Mr. Siple . I eagerly await your next book!
March 29, 2025
amazing story!
What a wonderful story. This is about one man’s life and realizing what is truly important. Charlie has to make some decisions that not only affect his life, but of those closest to him. He makes mistakes, but in the long run, he grows and changes, and does indeed find perfect harmony. The journey on how he gets there is well worth the read. It could be an emotional journey, as it was for me. Well done, Mr. Siple!
What a wonderful story. This is about one man’s life and realizing what is truly important. Charlie has to make some decisions that not only affect his life, but of those closest to him. He makes mistakes, but in the long run, he grows and changes, and does indeed find perfect harmony. The journey on how he gets there is well worth the read. It could be an emotional journey, as it was for me. Well done, Mr. Siple!
July 10, 2025
A book hard to put down
I'm so thankful I happen upon The five wishes of Mr. McBride ,and it was taken out of the basement, that led me to this book The Perfect Harmony. So many decisions in life affect not the present but future. It didn't state in this story but God gives us second and more chances to.make it right.
I have found a new author and will continue to read his stories.
I'm so thankful I happen upon The five wishes of Mr. McBride ,and it was taken out of the basement, that led me to this book The Perfect Harmony. So many decisions in life affect not the present but future. It didn't state in this story but God gives us second and more chances to.make it right.
I have found a new author and will continue to read his stories.
October 10, 2021
Charlie Fightmaster & the Search for Perfect Harmony
Joe Siple became one of my favorite authors while I read this book! I'm not a huge baseball fan but i couldn't put this book down and his insight into how people react to situations in life is amazing. This is a great story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Joe Siple became one of my favorite authors while I read this book! I'm not a huge baseball fan but i couldn't put this book down and his insight into how people react to situations in life is amazing. This is a great story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
October 28, 2021
Kindle Customer
BASEBALL HARMONY
This is a great book to read, especially now, during the World Series. I found this one to be clean, engaging and timely, causing me to look at my own life circumstances and determining my priorities as I move forward with the rest of my life.
This is a great storyline and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
BASEBALL HARMONY
This is a great book to read, especially now, during the World Series. I found this one to be clean, engaging and timely, causing me to look at my own life circumstances and determining my priorities as I move forward with the rest of my life.
This is a great storyline and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
January 23, 2022
Great life stody
Interesting read. I've the enjoyed the
baseball analytics. Perfect harmony is a beautiful place for your mind, body and soul. With today's crazy world I think many of us will find this serenity hard to find. A great book of challenges, love, loss and finally perfect harmony!
Interesting read. I've the enjoyed the
baseball analytics. Perfect harmony is a beautiful place for your mind, body and soul. With today's crazy world I think many of us will find this serenity hard to find. A great book of challenges, love, loss and finally perfect harmony!
December 25, 2021
A Soap Opera that Works
A sentimental story that will cause some to snicker at its improbable, “too-perfect” outcome, but the baseball facts and information are great and the story pulls the reader in, even if it’s a bit sappy. All in all, a very good read.
A sentimental story that will cause some to snicker at its improbable, “too-perfect” outcome, but the baseball facts and information are great and the story pulls the reader in, even if it’s a bit sappy. All in all, a very good read.
January 15, 2022
4.5. I love baseball. This is a a story set in baseball. Charlie is a minor leaguer and has been for years. When he finally gets the call to the Bigs, he finds out some devastating news about his family. The story is about his journey making the right decisions for that family. A good read!
January 27, 2022
This was such a heartwarming novel. I loved how Charlie grew during his search for perfect harmony and how he came to recognize the things which are truly important in life. Joe Siple is one of my new favorite authors. While his books are shorter than most I read, there is a great deal of fluidity and charm in all three books of his which I have read.
April 27, 2022
What a story!
I can't wait to share this with a friend's college age son who started his own bat company and has a long history of baseball. I know he will appreciate the story and the deep emotional love of the game and family.
I can't wait to share this with a friend's college age son who started his own bat company and has a long history of baseball. I know he will appreciate the story and the deep emotional love of the game and family.
May 20, 2022
Perfect Harmony
This was a good book. It’s story seems very real to life and I enjoyed the journey. At first I did not know if I would like it because it seemed like it was slow moving, but it really is a real to life book! Really enjoyed reading it!
This was a good book. It’s story seems very real to life and I enjoyed the journey. At first I did not know if I would like it because it seemed like it was slow moving, but it really is a real to life book! Really enjoyed reading it!
April 4, 2023
Beautiful Story
I really enjoyed the baseball talk, since I got to play briefly for the Detroit Tiger Organization. Brought back lots of memories. The character " Pippin" really got to my heart, and the story was filled with life lessons. A very good story.
I really enjoyed the baseball talk, since I got to play briefly for the Detroit Tiger Organization. Brought back lots of memories. The character " Pippin" really got to my heart, and the story was filled with life lessons. A very good story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews