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Washington DC Soaring Eagles #4
Caught Looking
Chase McLeary is gorgeous.
A ginger-haired, flame-throwing professional baseball player whose smile is as beautiful as his heart.
He’s Meghan McKenna’s new boyfriend, and he’s absolutely perfect to her.
If only the romance were real …
The one thing Meghan McKenna can’t do is fall for Chase McLeary.
Chase—the ace pitcher for the Washington DC Soaring Eagles baseball team—helps Meghan stick it to her awful ex-boyfriend by acting like her date in his presence. But after a perfect night, Chase suggests they continue the ruse for their own benefits. Meghan readily agrees to keep up the charade, at least for a few weeks.
When Chase begins to “court” Meghan like he would a woman he wanted to date, Meghan finds the lines between fake and reality blurring in her heart.
Knowing Chase only has friendly feelings for her, Meghan vows when their timeline is up, she will end things and the world will never know it was a pathetic fake romance. But when she catches Chase looking at her one night, she begins to wonder if this ruse could become something real after all…
If you like laugh out loud humor, deliciously swoony heroes, and lots of romance, you’ll love Caught Looking.
A ginger-haired, flame-throwing professional baseball player whose smile is as beautiful as his heart.
He’s Meghan McKenna’s new boyfriend, and he’s absolutely perfect to her.
If only the romance were real …
The one thing Meghan McKenna can’t do is fall for Chase McLeary.
Chase—the ace pitcher for the Washington DC Soaring Eagles baseball team—helps Meghan stick it to her awful ex-boyfriend by acting like her date in his presence. But after a perfect night, Chase suggests they continue the ruse for their own benefits. Meghan readily agrees to keep up the charade, at least for a few weeks.
When Chase begins to “court” Meghan like he would a woman he wanted to date, Meghan finds the lines between fake and reality blurring in her heart.
Knowing Chase only has friendly feelings for her, Meghan vows when their timeline is up, she will end things and the world will never know it was a pathetic fake romance. But when she catches Chase looking at her one night, she begins to wonder if this ruse could become something real after all…
If you like laugh out loud humor, deliciously swoony heroes, and lots of romance, you’ll love Caught Looking.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2022
235 people are currently reading
894 people want to read
About the author
Aven Ellis
53 books832 followersUSA Today bestselling author Aven Ellis began her publishing career in 2013 with her debut release, Connectivity. She currently writes romantic comedies featuring royals, billionaires, aristocrats, and athletes.
Her books are designed to make readers laugh out loud and fall in love. Happily-ever-after endings and good-boy heroes are guaranteed.
Aven lives in the Dallas area with her family. Aven loves shopping and fashion and can spend hours playing with fragrances in any department store. She can be found chatting it up on social media, eating speciality M&Ms, and crushing on the latest outfit the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing.
Her books are designed to make readers laugh out loud and fall in love. Happily-ever-after endings and good-boy heroes are guaranteed.
Aven lives in the Dallas area with her family. Aven loves shopping and fashion and can spend hours playing with fragrances in any department store. She can be found chatting it up on social media, eating speciality M&Ms, and crushing on the latest outfit the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
September 4, 2022
Eh kinda boring also the way they talk is weird? - they are always spilling their heart out instead of just simple conversations- especially over text-plot good but the way it’s written sounds fake in a way/ cheesy
June 29, 2022
Big fat DNF — I very much dislike the writing in this book and I couldn’t get through it all. 65% is all I’ve got.
First, she is INSUFFERABLE. “Oh I’m different” “oh I’m so quirky” STOP IT
Second, they have like no chemistry. I feel absolutely nothing between them whatsoever. The way they talk is so weird — they’re always spilling their hearts out and getting so deep for no reason. And their texts are weird. Same problem with them being so deep for no reason. And if I have to read “Thank you.” “You’re welcome,” one more time, I will scream. It makes it so unnecessarily long and annoying.
Third, the writing is just excruciatingly painful to read. I usually like showing rather than telling, but she just told too much. Her internal monologues were intolerable and monotonous and I didn’t care to read them. It was all just so cheesy.
The only scene I liked was the first one where they pretended to be dating to stick it to her ex-boyfriend. That was actually the whole reason I read the book — but the book did not match my expectations.
First, she is INSUFFERABLE. “Oh I’m different” “oh I’m so quirky” STOP IT
Second, they have like no chemistry. I feel absolutely nothing between them whatsoever. The way they talk is so weird — they’re always spilling their hearts out and getting so deep for no reason. And their texts are weird. Same problem with them being so deep for no reason. And if I have to read “Thank you.” “You’re welcome,” one more time, I will scream. It makes it so unnecessarily long and annoying.
Third, the writing is just excruciatingly painful to read. I usually like showing rather than telling, but she just told too much. Her internal monologues were intolerable and monotonous and I didn’t care to read them. It was all just so cheesy.
The only scene I liked was the first one where they pretended to be dating to stick it to her ex-boyfriend. That was actually the whole reason I read the book — but the book did not match my expectations.
April 17, 2022
Each couple in the Soaring Eagles Series is adorable! And, Chase and Meghan are no exception!
The opening scene is quite possibly one of my favorites of the series, as I always like it when a pompous a-hole gets what's coming to him! And, when it's done by a chivalrous, handsome baseball player, it's even better! This one move leads to a few more spicy moments at a roof top bar and the beginnings of a fake-relationship between Meghan and Chase! But, the feelings don't stay fake for long...OR, were they ever really fake to begin with?!
Both Meghan and Chase have some serious relationship baggage. Meghan, has come out of long-term relationship where she was stripped of her sense of self; and, Chase was never really allowed to develop one. This story follows Chase and Meghan as they support each other in finding themselves...and, in doing so, finding and falling for one another! And, in true Aven style, their romance is set amongst beautifully describe scenery and includes some lough out loud moments (I'm looking at you toenails. Blech.)!
As always, Aven does such a great job of showing you the true depth of the character's emotions. Even though Meghan is the only "voice" you hear; Aven's writing allows you to truly understand Chase as well. She does a great job writing vulnerability into the heroes role, while still maintaining masculinity. And, I really enjoyed the journey of Meghan becoming a strong woman! . Overall, I really loved Meghan and Chase's story and how it unfolds! I give Caught Looking a 4.5/5 stars.
I was given an ARC and this is my honest opinion. But, as always, my honest opinion is that I always love Aven's books :-)
The opening scene is quite possibly one of my favorites of the series, as I always like it when a pompous a-hole gets what's coming to him! And, when it's done by a chivalrous, handsome baseball player, it's even better! This one move leads to a few more spicy moments at a roof top bar and the beginnings of a fake-relationship between Meghan and Chase! But, the feelings don't stay fake for long...OR, were they ever really fake to begin with?!
Both Meghan and Chase have some serious relationship baggage. Meghan, has come out of long-term relationship where she was stripped of her sense of self; and, Chase was never really allowed to develop one. This story follows Chase and Meghan as they support each other in finding themselves...and, in doing so, finding and falling for one another! And, in true Aven style, their romance is set amongst beautifully describe scenery and includes some lough out loud moments (I'm looking at you toenails. Blech.)!
As always, Aven does such a great job of showing you the true depth of the character's emotions. Even though Meghan is the only "voice" you hear; Aven's writing allows you to truly understand Chase as well. She does a great job writing vulnerability into the heroes role, while still maintaining masculinity. And, I really enjoyed the journey of Meghan becoming a strong woman! . Overall, I really loved Meghan and Chase's story and how it unfolds! I give Caught Looking a 4.5/5 stars.
I was given an ARC and this is my honest opinion. But, as always, my honest opinion is that I always love Aven's books :-)
April 15, 2022
Over the last few years, we've met Brody, Brady, and AJ of the Washington Soaring Eagles. Hiding in the shadows amongst his teammates is Chase, one of the stand out starting pitchers for the Eagles. Chase has a secret...he isn't the same man he projects to the world.
Meghan has been more than ready to become a full-fledged adult. Taking on her first real job as an HR generalist is certainly setting her up for a great start. Her love life however, is another story.
When Meghan and Chase cross paths, they are immediately drawn to one another and agree to a 'fake relationship. But what happens then the both Chase and Meghan break the rules and start to fall for one another?
As always, Aven has done a masterful job at creating such well-rounded and multifaceted characters. Chase and Meghan are no exception. Chase is such a wonderfully deep and complicated character that he's quickly become one of my favorite of the Soaring Eagles. There are so many moments in "Caught Looking" where I just couldn't put the book down. I can't wait to reread it again. It's indeed not just a home run, but a fastball thrown for the perfect strike.
Ten out of ten stars.
Meghan has been more than ready to become a full-fledged adult. Taking on her first real job as an HR generalist is certainly setting her up for a great start. Her love life however, is another story.
When Meghan and Chase cross paths, they are immediately drawn to one another and agree to a 'fake relationship. But what happens then the both Chase and Meghan break the rules and start to fall for one another?
As always, Aven has done a masterful job at creating such well-rounded and multifaceted characters. Chase and Meghan are no exception. Chase is such a wonderfully deep and complicated character that he's quickly become one of my favorite of the Soaring Eagles. There are so many moments in "Caught Looking" where I just couldn't put the book down. I can't wait to reread it again. It's indeed not just a home run, but a fastball thrown for the perfect strike.
Ten out of ten stars.
August 30, 2025
Another single perspective, close to a third person perspective story from her point of view. He's got some baggage but she's got more. I do wish they both would have came clean up front. This is a more interesting story about someone who lives the game but hates the game. Some people see the game as a piece of their story and others as their entire story. This story got a little slow sometimes and the amount of drama was a bit excess. All in all, I love the characters as a whole, this series wasn't my favorite. I will probably circle back and do the hockey ones next. Not a re-read for me just because I don't dig the perspective.
February 9, 2023
I love this story. Fake dating, sports romance, bettering yourself. This was such a fun book. Reasons for losing the 1 star: lots of explaining what I’m supposed to see (a bit repetitive, could have trimmed that down) and if this woman used the word “enigma” once she used it 19473 times. PLEASE find a new dang word.
June 18, 2022
dnf. don’t know how this book has such a high rating.
meghan gives off such pick me vibes i want to kill myself everytime something comes out of her mouth. “i’m quirky” “i dress preppy” THE STRAW FEDORA.
reading about how “this isn’t real” 5 times in one chapter is really overkill. i can’t imagine the word count on the word “seen” in the first half alone.
i made it to 50% but i should’ve dnfed sooner- as soon as i read this line:
“For me, it means lots of chambray and eyelet in the summer. Navy stripes. Like this outfit here: navy gingham, white shorts with a feminine touch, and wedge espadrilles.”
meghan gives off such pick me vibes i want to kill myself everytime something comes out of her mouth. “i’m quirky” “i dress preppy” THE STRAW FEDORA.
reading about how “this isn’t real” 5 times in one chapter is really overkill. i can’t imagine the word count on the word “seen” in the first half alone.
i made it to 50% but i should’ve dnfed sooner- as soon as i read this line:
“For me, it means lots of chambray and eyelet in the summer. Navy stripes. Like this outfit here: navy gingham, white shorts with a feminine touch, and wedge espadrilles.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2022
Every time I finish an Aven Ellis book It becomes my new favorite book. As someone who is in HR I appreciated the fun side of the job. Aven Ellis has quickly become on of my favorite authors who writes books for women who want it all. This book made me Swoon, laugh, and dream a little more.
April 22, 2022
I absolutely loved Caught Looking, the 4th story in the Washington Soaring Eagles series. A fake dating story is my absolute favorite trope and this one delivered. Chase and Meghan’s chemistry from the beginning was unreal. They brought out the best in each other. I loved how both weren’t quite sure what they wanted to do with their future and were in a limbo period. Meghan encourages Chase to pursue a different passion and Chase reassures Meghan that HR could be a great fit for her. This is definitely a new favorite of mine! This book was pure fire and I loved everything about it.
May 13, 2022
The ending felt off a bit to me. They were so explosive and made up so quickly. It just felt rushed. Then I felt like there was so much more that could have been done with Chase's mental abuse he endured. The epilogue just didn't do it for me. We were told more of what happened in the epilogue than what we saw happen.
Sadly, this is my least favorite book in this series.
Sadly, this is my least favorite book in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2022
It was a decent book. I loved the opening scene especially but for some reason just found myself struggling at times to pick it back up. I liked how Chase and Meghan encouraged each other to dream but it felt like that was literally all that was happening. Just seemed stagnant and one dimensional even with the every deep therapy like dialogue they experienced together.
July 3, 2023
the way meghan and chase and all the characters talk to each other is so unnatural that it is genuinely hard to read. their dialogue kept bringing me out of the story because i’d start laughing. plot was a simple rom-com but they had some cute moments. i just could not get over the dialogue.
May 5, 2022
Spoiler- I only wish that he could have found joy in the game. Seems a pity. I do like that past characters all played a part of the story!
May 27, 2022
Authentic
It was a good read.. but you can only read authentic so many times... and Pockets had a lot of internal conversations going on... lol
It was a good read.. but you can only read authentic so many times... and Pockets had a lot of internal conversations going on... lol
July 26, 2022
You all know I love a good baseball boy book
July 17, 2022
There are some good things about this book that should be highlighted first.
1) the depiction of Chase is actually quite nice for the most part. He is thoughtful, kind, respects Meghan’s body autonomy by constantly asking for consent even when he is supposed to be touching her to help her, and is just an overall cinnamon roll.
2) a good amount of time is spent on the first “date” between Chase and Meghan. I know it significantly slows the pace of the book, but it’s done in the service of getting to know the characters and watching them fall in love. What’s the point of reading a romance if not that?
3) Chase and Meghan are actually nice people and I cannot stress enough how hard it is for a lot of romance writers to depict nice people falling in love.
There are quite a few problems as well.
1) the writing is really self-conscious. It felt like the author had a list of details she wanted to include and was going to do it whether in made sense at the moment or not. It was like a big sign drawing attention to those details in a completely awkward way.
2) the absurd amount of unnecessary detail. I swear to god, there is a moment where the female protagonist says, “I stopped my fingers on the edge of my white beaded stoneware plates.” Just why? At one point, it starts to feel like a sponsored ad for Pottery Barn. And the repetition of details about her clothes! It borders on unpleasant.
3) despite my affection for the time spent on the first date, it’s too long. I promise I don’t hate long books, my current spate of novella reading not withstanding. I just think most stories kind of tell you how long they need to be. Some books are heavy on world building and plot, so a longer book is necessary to tell that story. Others are light and fluffy and getting in and out is optimal. I did not once notice the page count on Things We Never Got Over and that thing is a romance over 500 pages. But there are stories that are two or three hundred pages shorter that drag. (I won’t name drop them. They know who they are). This falls mainly into the latter group.
4) we are reminded every other paragraph that “this isn’t real,” “he doesn’t like me that way,” “nothing will ever come of this,” etc. We know that’s what you think. No need to remind us.
5) having said number four, Chase kind of does send mixed messages. I knew exactly where this book was going, but was nevertheless thrown for a loop when he started talking about how they were going to break up. Maybe Meghan did need to remind herself every 30 seconds.
So I can’t unequivocally recommend this book. I feel like positive romance should be championed, but the writing needs to be good as well. You can decide if the positives outweigh the negatives.
1) the depiction of Chase is actually quite nice for the most part. He is thoughtful, kind, respects Meghan’s body autonomy by constantly asking for consent even when he is supposed to be touching her to help her, and is just an overall cinnamon roll.
2) a good amount of time is spent on the first “date” between Chase and Meghan. I know it significantly slows the pace of the book, but it’s done in the service of getting to know the characters and watching them fall in love. What’s the point of reading a romance if not that?
3) Chase and Meghan are actually nice people and I cannot stress enough how hard it is for a lot of romance writers to depict nice people falling in love.
There are quite a few problems as well.
1) the writing is really self-conscious. It felt like the author had a list of details she wanted to include and was going to do it whether in made sense at the moment or not. It was like a big sign drawing attention to those details in a completely awkward way.
2) the absurd amount of unnecessary detail. I swear to god, there is a moment where the female protagonist says, “I stopped my fingers on the edge of my white beaded stoneware plates.” Just why? At one point, it starts to feel like a sponsored ad for Pottery Barn. And the repetition of details about her clothes! It borders on unpleasant.
3) despite my affection for the time spent on the first date, it’s too long. I promise I don’t hate long books, my current spate of novella reading not withstanding. I just think most stories kind of tell you how long they need to be. Some books are heavy on world building and plot, so a longer book is necessary to tell that story. Others are light and fluffy and getting in and out is optimal. I did not once notice the page count on Things We Never Got Over and that thing is a romance over 500 pages. But there are stories that are two or three hundred pages shorter that drag. (I won’t name drop them. They know who they are). This falls mainly into the latter group.
4) we are reminded every other paragraph that “this isn’t real,” “he doesn’t like me that way,” “nothing will ever come of this,” etc. We know that’s what you think. No need to remind us.
5) having said number four, Chase kind of does send mixed messages. I knew exactly where this book was going, but was nevertheless thrown for a loop when he started talking about how they were going to break up. Maybe Meghan did need to remind herself every 30 seconds.
So I can’t unequivocally recommend this book. I feel like positive romance should be championed, but the writing needs to be good as well. You can decide if the positives outweigh the negatives.
April 29, 2022
The fake relationship trope is a common plot device for many romance novels, regardless if it's the male or female lead who needs the fake relationship and asks the other person to help in order to achieve their goal. It's not too often when one lead automatically jumps in to rescue the other from an uncomfortable situation. It's those situations that catch my eye and I gleefully select the book to read, hoping for a story told well.
Aven Ellis' latest novel, "Caught Looking" -- book 4 in the "Washington Soaring Eagles" series, successfully ticks that requirement for me. We've met Meghan and Chase in previous books and they finally get their story. The book opens with Meghan waiting at a Washington, DC rooftop bar for her sister and their friends to celebrate a successful no-hitter game. While waiting, Meghan sees her ex-boyfriend, who continues down the path of verbally abusing Meghan and exhibiting other toxic behaviors. It's here where Chase enters. Chase is a Soaring Eagles player who is also joining in the celebration. Chase rescues Meghan by informing the ex of their relationship. The fake relationship quickly snowballs from there as Meghan and Chase are spotted in a kiss by their friends. Chase encourages the fake relationship so that their friends will ease up on both of them and stop their various matchmaking attempts.
Once again, Ellis provides two lead characters who are likeable and realistic, experiencing issues that are real and true to life. In this case, Meghan must learn to rebuild her confidence and self-esteem after several years of it being torn down. Chase must learn that he has value as a person for more than just his athletic abilities. Other characters from previous books in the series are seen, including surrogate grandparents Barbara and Dominik, and it's like coming to a family reunion with all the best people waiting to update you on what's happened since you last gathered.
As with all of Ellis' other books, the reader is immersed in this fictional world with enough actual locations, events and real-life situations to not feel any shortcomings or like something is missing (Meghan's on the job experiences are not as far-fetched as one might think). I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know more about Meghan and Chase and closed the book with a happy sigh when finished.
Aven Ellis' latest novel, "Caught Looking" -- book 4 in the "Washington Soaring Eagles" series, successfully ticks that requirement for me. We've met Meghan and Chase in previous books and they finally get their story. The book opens with Meghan waiting at a Washington, DC rooftop bar for her sister and their friends to celebrate a successful no-hitter game. While waiting, Meghan sees her ex-boyfriend, who continues down the path of verbally abusing Meghan and exhibiting other toxic behaviors. It's here where Chase enters. Chase is a Soaring Eagles player who is also joining in the celebration. Chase rescues Meghan by informing the ex of their relationship. The fake relationship quickly snowballs from there as Meghan and Chase are spotted in a kiss by their friends. Chase encourages the fake relationship so that their friends will ease up on both of them and stop their various matchmaking attempts.
Once again, Ellis provides two lead characters who are likeable and realistic, experiencing issues that are real and true to life. In this case, Meghan must learn to rebuild her confidence and self-esteem after several years of it being torn down. Chase must learn that he has value as a person for more than just his athletic abilities. Other characters from previous books in the series are seen, including surrogate grandparents Barbara and Dominik, and it's like coming to a family reunion with all the best people waiting to update you on what's happened since you last gathered.
As with all of Ellis' other books, the reader is immersed in this fictional world with enough actual locations, events and real-life situations to not feel any shortcomings or like something is missing (Meghan's on the job experiences are not as far-fetched as one might think). I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know more about Meghan and Chase and closed the book with a happy sigh when finished.
April 27, 2022
I don’t think the ratio of me tapping my Kindle and the speed of my eyes reading was able to keep up with my excitement for Chase swooping in to be the swoony knight in shining armor for Meghan to start a fake dating relationship at the beginning of CAUGHT OF LOOKING. Aven Ellis wrote the perfect moment, and I wanted to read faster than my human body would allow. And the book just got better from there!
Meghan and Chase are my new favorite couple. I know, I know. I always have a new favorite couple. But like, I LOVE them. 🥹 Their push and pull dynamic of getting to their HEA is fantastic because they have been through hell and back as individuals. So, as a couple, they have a lot to work on, which they are both willing to work on, and I loved seeing that.
My favorite aspect of this - and probably most swoon-worthy - is that Chase supported Meghan as a whole person. Meghan never felt seen in any type of relationship. She wanted to find herself. He saw her, supported her, and let her find her way when he easily could have made her a kept woman with him being the man in power. This made him very attractive. 😍
I’m also a big fan of Ellis’ writing because she writes characters you want to be friends with. The entire time I read the fourth book in the WASHINGTON DC SOARING EAGLES series, I thought I was reading about my friends (I mean, it feels like that now after four books*) and watching them fall in love. You know what? I loved every single second of it!
I’m always happy with a new Avenverse book, and this one made me really happy. Definitely one of my new favorites! Especially becasue it had my favorite trope - fake dating - and baseball butts! 😍
*As always, you don’t have to read them in order, but they are more fun if you do!
Thanks Aven Ellis for the gifted book!
Content Warnings: toxic relationships, gaslighting
Meghan and Chase are my new favorite couple. I know, I know. I always have a new favorite couple. But like, I LOVE them. 🥹 Their push and pull dynamic of getting to their HEA is fantastic because they have been through hell and back as individuals. So, as a couple, they have a lot to work on, which they are both willing to work on, and I loved seeing that.
My favorite aspect of this - and probably most swoon-worthy - is that Chase supported Meghan as a whole person. Meghan never felt seen in any type of relationship. She wanted to find herself. He saw her, supported her, and let her find her way when he easily could have made her a kept woman with him being the man in power. This made him very attractive. 😍
I’m also a big fan of Ellis’ writing because she writes characters you want to be friends with. The entire time I read the fourth book in the WASHINGTON DC SOARING EAGLES series, I thought I was reading about my friends (I mean, it feels like that now after four books*) and watching them fall in love. You know what? I loved every single second of it!
I’m always happy with a new Avenverse book, and this one made me really happy. Definitely one of my new favorites! Especially becasue it had my favorite trope - fake dating - and baseball butts! 😍
*As always, you don’t have to read them in order, but they are more fun if you do!
Thanks Aven Ellis for the gifted book!
Content Warnings: toxic relationships, gaslighting
April 27, 2022
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from the Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Aven for my copy of this book. This is the 4th book in this series but can be read as a standalone. Meghan has previously featured in some of the other books in this series however this book is her story.
I loved Meghan and Chase from the moment I read the sneak peek at the end of the previous book. I was very excited about these two and Aven has had me waiting 2 years for this book (I know there have been a plethora of excellent releases from Aven but I am impatient and greedy). Meghan and Chase have instant chemistry and their fake dating very quickly turns into reality. There are so many great scenes in this book. I love the cookie shop, the ice cream date, the trip to Annapolis, okay yes I just loved it all!
I really loved catching up with the couples from the previous stories and seeing them give advice to Meghan too. Aven has created such a wonderful community at the Soaring Eagles. It's so lovely to see these women supporting each other and their men. I also absolutely adore Barbara and Dominik. I could listen to these two all day. They make my heart so full.
If you love a swoony romance with a lot of laughter then you need to grab yourself a copy of this book, your favourite drink and snacks and settle in for a wonderful escape from reality.
I loved Meghan and Chase from the moment I read the sneak peek at the end of the previous book. I was very excited about these two and Aven has had me waiting 2 years for this book (I know there have been a plethora of excellent releases from Aven but I am impatient and greedy). Meghan and Chase have instant chemistry and their fake dating very quickly turns into reality. There are so many great scenes in this book. I love the cookie shop, the ice cream date, the trip to Annapolis, okay yes I just loved it all!
I really loved catching up with the couples from the previous stories and seeing them give advice to Meghan too. Aven has created such a wonderful community at the Soaring Eagles. It's so lovely to see these women supporting each other and their men. I also absolutely adore Barbara and Dominik. I could listen to these two all day. They make my heart so full.
If you love a swoony romance with a lot of laughter then you need to grab yourself a copy of this book, your favourite drink and snacks and settle in for a wonderful escape from reality.
April 25, 2022
Aven Ellis has the uncanny ability to get inside the minds of every character she writes, regardless of gender, age, occupation, or many other factors. Because of this, the reader can enjoy living the story from the viewpoint of within the main characters, who in this case, are Meghan McKenna and Chase McLeary.
Meghan, who has spent most of her adult life being dependent on her parents or a man, is determined to make it on her own and be the independent woman she knows she can be. Chase is a professional baseball player, pitching for the Washington Soaring Eagles. No one knows he is not living his dream, but that of everyone else. Thrown together by an unfortunate encounter with Meghan’s ex, Chase and Meghan quickly find out that they have more than what others around them can see. And although their insecurities threaten to drive them apart, they are determined to figure out a way to come back together again.
“Caught Looking” is book 4 in the Washington DC Soaring Eagles book series. Although you can easily read it as a standalone book, it is much more fun if you know the other characters and their backstories. Once you have read one of Aven’s books, you will want to find all the books in the “Aven-verse.” Each book in every series has been my "favorite" until the next one came out. I find myself waiting and wishing for the date of the next release in each of her series. If love with a side of baseball is your thing, you will definitely want to read this!
August 12, 2022
I should have honestly DNF'ed this book from the first paragraph>
"I enter the rooftop bar of a hip eatery."
The writing was extremely off-putting. It felt like someone from an older generation trying to sound young. This really lead to the MC being an annoying pick me about how she is so different and "quirky." Honestly, no one cares if you wear gingham and watch home remodeling shows. I have been watching those shows since I was in high school, and no one even batted an eye.
One scenario, the female lead is talking to the male lead about how she (an HR administrator) told an employee he needed to wear shoes. Male lead says. "You are such a bad ass." What?? Doing a simple task of your job makes you a bad ass? If that is what constitutes a bad ass, I am ready to join Hell's Angels.
Finally, a major pet peeve of mine is when authors try to create a new social media platform and give it an absolutely terrible name with no inkling of what it actually is. "Connectivity Store Share." What in the ever loving hell is that? It is an atrocious name, and I have no clue what it is supposed to be. Facebook? Instagram? Tiktok? No one knows.
I am so annoyed even writing this review.
"I enter the rooftop bar of a hip eatery."
The writing was extremely off-putting. It felt like someone from an older generation trying to sound young. This really lead to the MC being an annoying pick me about how she is so different and "quirky." Honestly, no one cares if you wear gingham and watch home remodeling shows. I have been watching those shows since I was in high school, and no one even batted an eye.
One scenario, the female lead is talking to the male lead about how she (an HR administrator) told an employee he needed to wear shoes. Male lead says. "You are such a bad ass." What?? Doing a simple task of your job makes you a bad ass? If that is what constitutes a bad ass, I am ready to join Hell's Angels.
Finally, a major pet peeve of mine is when authors try to create a new social media platform and give it an absolutely terrible name with no inkling of what it actually is. "Connectivity Store Share." What in the ever loving hell is that? It is an atrocious name, and I have no clue what it is supposed to be. Facebook? Instagram? Tiktok? No one knows.
I am so annoyed even writing this review.
May 1, 2022
Yet another fabulous story from Aven Ellis!
Chase and Meghan grabbed hold of my attention, and I could not put down this book. I loved returning to the Soaring Eagles world, and catching up with the familiar faces.
From the fake relationship, to them both realizing feelings are happening, I loved it all. Even the moments where they were disagreeing about whatever they were talking about, or the big moment of conflict, I was all in.
This book also showed how much Meghan has grown and matured since the ending of her previous relationship. She's finding out who she truly is, her likes and dislikes, and is looking toward the future. Chase too impressed me. He shared so much of his past struggles, and how much he wants things to change in his life. He's still struggling a bit in this book, but we see him working through all of that.
Oh, and those dates that Chase and Meghan went on? UGH! Perfection.
One thing I know for certain is that Aven creates these characters that are 100% relatable, and I find myself wanting to escape into the worlds she envisions. Even her "villains" are ones that I love to hate. Whittaker was no exception.
Chase and Meghan grabbed hold of my attention, and I could not put down this book. I loved returning to the Soaring Eagles world, and catching up with the familiar faces.
From the fake relationship, to them both realizing feelings are happening, I loved it all. Even the moments where they were disagreeing about whatever they were talking about, or the big moment of conflict, I was all in.
This book also showed how much Meghan has grown and matured since the ending of her previous relationship. She's finding out who she truly is, her likes and dislikes, and is looking toward the future. Chase too impressed me. He shared so much of his past struggles, and how much he wants things to change in his life. He's still struggling a bit in this book, but we see him working through all of that.
Oh, and those dates that Chase and Meghan went on? UGH! Perfection.
One thing I know for certain is that Aven creates these characters that are 100% relatable, and I find myself wanting to escape into the worlds she envisions. Even her "villains" are ones that I love to hate. Whittaker was no exception.
April 21, 2022
I have read every single book that Aven has published, and this one repeatedly gave me comfort through the aspects that I love about her writing, but also surprised me with a freshness that kept it from being too similar to anything I’ve ever read of hers. Now that my incredibly long paragraph sentence is over, I can tell you what I genuinely loved about this book 🥰
Meghan and Chase have my favorite date-cute (not meet-cute because they already knew each other, but the moment when they start dating 🤪) of any other aven couple…Ever… but Hold the Lift is a close second!
I love the honesty of who these characters are and how they are REAL people, at least they could be with how authentic she wrote them. Their struggles are real struggles, their love is real love, their fears are real fears. I love to forget I’m reading about fictional characters and I completely did that with this one.
It has all the classic Aven flirting, sweet love, genuine people- while still giving us newness in many aspects to keep it lively. 5 out of 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Meghan and Chase have my favorite date-cute (not meet-cute because they already knew each other, but the moment when they start dating 🤪) of any other aven couple…Ever… but Hold the Lift is a close second!
I love the honesty of who these characters are and how they are REAL people, at least they could be with how authentic she wrote them. Their struggles are real struggles, their love is real love, their fears are real fears. I love to forget I’m reading about fictional characters and I completely did that with this one.
It has all the classic Aven flirting, sweet love, genuine people- while still giving us newness in many aspects to keep it lively. 5 out of 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
April 24, 2022
If you’re a fan of this author, or even if you’re new to her, you won’t want to miss this one! While I feel that it would be best to read the series in order so you have a better understanding of all the characters, you can still read this as a standalone without a problem.
Chase and Meghan were wonderfully written characters. My heart felt for Chase, as he was living his life for everyone else but himself. Meghan sees him for who he is, encourages his real passions, and stands by him. Chase also sees Meghan for who she is, not for her past mistakes. They balance each other out well, and it was a true joy to watch their relationship bloom.
The descriptions of locations are so detailed you feel that you’re actually there with the characters. And the author does a great job of blending humor in with a heartfelt story that you won’t want it to end. If you’re looking for a story with very little drama and plenty of heart, Caught Looking is the book for you.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC**
Chase and Meghan were wonderfully written characters. My heart felt for Chase, as he was living his life for everyone else but himself. Meghan sees him for who he is, encourages his real passions, and stands by him. Chase also sees Meghan for who she is, not for her past mistakes. They balance each other out well, and it was a true joy to watch their relationship bloom.
The descriptions of locations are so detailed you feel that you’re actually there with the characters. And the author does a great job of blending humor in with a heartfelt story that you won’t want it to end. If you’re looking for a story with very little drama and plenty of heart, Caught Looking is the book for you.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC**
April 28, 2022
Aven Ellis will forever hold a special place in my heart. Her books are just the sweetest! Now, I’ll admit that the Soaring Eagles series is one of my least favorite Avenverse series, but I really enjoyed this book! Meghan and Chase are absolutely adorable, and this may be Aven’s STEAMIEST book yet! 🔥 🥵. Meghan’s growth arc in this book is really something. It’s so wonderful to watch her reclaim her life after ending her toxic and abusive relationship. Chase is a precious cinnamon roll who is grappling with a traumatic past and the life he longs to lead. I don’t always love the fake relationship trope, but this one didn’t go on for very long, and Meg and Chase just KILLED me with the pining! I really enjoyed watching these two set aside their baggage and find their HEA!
**side note that I LOVE that this story featured a MC musical theatre lover, and I love that I played a part in this. Aven Ellis is an author who listens to her readers, and I will forever be giddy over the fact that she took MY suggestion for Meghan’s favorite musical (which is also my favorite!)**
**side note that I LOVE that this story featured a MC musical theatre lover, and I love that I played a part in this. Aven Ellis is an author who listens to her readers, and I will forever be giddy over the fact that she took MY suggestion for Meghan’s favorite musical (which is also my favorite!)**
June 25, 2022
I’m fundamentally opposed to not finishing books because I always have to know how the story plays out. However, I almost stopped reading this halfway because it was SO REPETITIVE.
Anytime Meghan did something new it felt like there was a page of monologue about how “old Meghan would have never done that” and she’s growing so much. Granted there definitely was a lot of character growth, which I did appreciate, but between that and anytime chase did literally anything another page or two of monologue about how her ex would have never!! It was just too much. Then there was the constant reminder that chase didn’t dream of being a baseball player. Not to mention how cheesy they both were. I’m all for a cheesy romance, but to constantly pour your heart out in every single conversation? To threaten to leave even though you’d only been together a week or so because he wouldn’t open up about his ex? It was just very strangely written.
That being said I did enjoy seeing their relationship bloom. I enjoyed Meghan figuring out what she wanted & Chase finally getting to do what he wanted.
Anytime Meghan did something new it felt like there was a page of monologue about how “old Meghan would have never done that” and she’s growing so much. Granted there definitely was a lot of character growth, which I did appreciate, but between that and anytime chase did literally anything another page or two of monologue about how her ex would have never!! It was just too much. Then there was the constant reminder that chase didn’t dream of being a baseball player. Not to mention how cheesy they both were. I’m all for a cheesy romance, but to constantly pour your heart out in every single conversation? To threaten to leave even though you’d only been together a week or so because he wouldn’t open up about his ex? It was just very strangely written.
That being said I did enjoy seeing their relationship bloom. I enjoyed Meghan figuring out what she wanted & Chase finally getting to do what he wanted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2022
Chase and Meghan. Loved this story. Filled with emotions and love.. Watching their relationship grow through struggles they put on themselves due to their past relationships or upbringin.
Chase is the star pitcher of the Eagles, he is living the American dream and can have any woman he wants. But he wants Meghan, even though when he first meets her she is in a relationship. And is he truly living the American dream not his own dream? When he gets a shot with Meghan he is determined to make her see him in differently than the rest of the world does. But will his insecurities and regrets push her away?
Meghan thought she had the perfect man until she realized he was anything but. When she starts to know Chase this is the perfect man for her. He wants her to strive in her career and more. When he pushes her away will she fight to keep him or has her past taught her to leave?
Chase is the star pitcher of the Eagles, he is living the American dream and can have any woman he wants. But he wants Meghan, even though when he first meets her she is in a relationship. And is he truly living the American dream not his own dream? When he gets a shot with Meghan he is determined to make her see him in differently than the rest of the world does. But will his insecurities and regrets push her away?
Meghan thought she had the perfect man until she realized he was anything but. When she starts to know Chase this is the perfect man for her. He wants her to strive in her career and more. When he pushes her away will she fight to keep him or has her past taught her to leave?
April 22, 2022
I know I'm in for a treat when a new Aven Ellis book comes out. This one just seems extra special. The Soaring Eagles series has always been a special one, and this book fits right in. Meghan and Chase have been in the background for a while, and it's finally their time to shine. From the very beginning, I was rooting for them to fall in love for real. What this book does oh so well is show two people who have learned from their past. I absolutely loved Meghan's journey to do what she wants for herself, and not for anyone else. Chase's journey to find his dream, and Meghan's encouragement was perfect. This book is everything you love about Aven Ellis- down to getting hungry from all her glorious ball park food descriptions. Enjoy!
Note- I did recieve an ARC for this review. Aren't I lucky to get to read such an awesome book early??
Note- I did recieve an ARC for this review. Aren't I lucky to get to read such an awesome book early??
April 24, 2022
I am an avid reader and have read every book that Aven Ellis has written. She is a fantastic author who has the ability to write books that are both funny and insightful. This book starts with the two main characters (who at this time are casual acquaintances) running into each other at a popular DC restaurant when Chase can’t help but overhear Meghan’s ex belittling her. He comes in and pretends to be her boyfriend in an effort to put the ex in his place. From there the plan to “fake date” is hatched. The book follows their not so fake relationship and the inevitable problems they experience along the way to their HEA.
I loved the honest portrayal of the emotional insecurities that both Meghan and Chase had due to prior experiences. The book really highlights the importance of demanding what you need in a relationship and not settling for less than you deserve.
I loved the honest portrayal of the emotional insecurities that both Meghan and Chase had due to prior experiences. The book really highlights the importance of demanding what you need in a relationship and not settling for less than you deserve.
July 3, 2022
Aven Ellis books are always the sweetest romance stories and Caught Looking is no different. I was so excited to see what she would do with the fake dating trope.
It’s been a while since I read the rest of the Soaring Eagles series but it was good to be back in that world.
I love seeing Meghan’s growth throughout this book after ending her toxic relationship and reclaim her life. Chase is such a sweet guy who is trying to get over his traumatic past and stop living his life for everyone but himself.
It was so good watching Chase and Meghan find themselves with each other and work through their pasts to find their happily ever after. They really balance each other out and are the perfect match.
If you’re looking for a super sweet romance with low drama and lots of love, this one is for you.
*ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review*
It’s been a while since I read the rest of the Soaring Eagles series but it was good to be back in that world.
I love seeing Meghan’s growth throughout this book after ending her toxic relationship and reclaim her life. Chase is such a sweet guy who is trying to get over his traumatic past and stop living his life for everyone but himself.
It was so good watching Chase and Meghan find themselves with each other and work through their pasts to find their happily ever after. They really balance each other out and are the perfect match.
If you’re looking for a super sweet romance with low drama and lots of love, this one is for you.
*ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review*
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