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The Vegas Kings #2
The Curveball
He's the charmer of the infield. I'm the uptight, jaded author who won't give him a chance...now we're roommates?
Griffin Marks can charm the socks off anyone he meets. Except me. To me he's a beautiful pest who will do just about anything to make me like him. I wish him luck. I might write romance, but in reality what's the benefit to falling in love when nine times out of ten you end up burned?
I have no plans to change my mind, until the night we collide (literally) in the parking lot. One concussion later, I've somehow ended up as the girl living in Griffin's spare room, and my sunshine catcher intends to use this opportunity to make me the newest member of his fan club.
The worst part is? It's working. The more I learn about him, the more those feelings I've ignored since the day we met fight to get free.
But Griffin doesn't know everything about me, and when he finds out the truth will the guy I'm falling for be the one who makes me believe in love again? Or will he be the final crack that breaks my heart for good?
Perfect for readers who love a good mix of sweet and sizzle, toe-curling kisses, swoony book boyfriends, and a happily ever after.
Griffin Marks can charm the socks off anyone he meets. Except me. To me he's a beautiful pest who will do just about anything to make me like him. I wish him luck. I might write romance, but in reality what's the benefit to falling in love when nine times out of ten you end up burned?
I have no plans to change my mind, until the night we collide (literally) in the parking lot. One concussion later, I've somehow ended up as the girl living in Griffin's spare room, and my sunshine catcher intends to use this opportunity to make me the newest member of his fan club.
The worst part is? It's working. The more I learn about him, the more those feelings I've ignored since the day we met fight to get free.
But Griffin doesn't know everything about me, and when he finds out the truth will the guy I'm falling for be the one who makes me believe in love again? Or will he be the final crack that breaks my heart for good?
Perfect for readers who love a good mix of sweet and sizzle, toe-curling kisses, swoony book boyfriends, and a happily ever after.
280 pages, Paperback
First published June 28, 2022
662 people are currently reading
1034 people want to read
About the author
Emily Childs
30 books363 followersI live in Utah with my husband, our four kids, our dog who thinks she is human, and a rather suspicious cat. A fantasy anthology which included my work in 2018 hit the USA Today Bestseller's list. I have written several fantasy and romance novels and adore both genres!
You'll most likely find me when I'm not writing trying to keep up with the kids, daydreaming, spending time in the mountains, and drinking too much caffeine.
You'll most likely find me when I'm not writing trying to keep up with the kids, daydreaming, spending time in the mountains, and drinking too much caffeine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
October 12, 2022
UPDATE: Bonus Scene - Nine years later. The second generation is taking to the field in such an adorable family outing in the ballpark. Of course, Wren and Griffin and the other Vegas Kings are all there in body and spirit to support the team and guess who is coaching the little league? That would be former catcher for the Vegas Kings and now retired Coach Daddy! Short and sweet and totally smile-worthy.
**
Really enjoyed the main characters in this round of the Vegas Kings. Loved the family interactions and the "playing house" situation along with the baseball team's friendships and backup when help was needed. I was really surprised and delighted by the light sexual content -- but never fear there was plenty of chemistry and sizzle between the romance writer and the catcher for the Vegas Kings.
So far, this sports-related series hasn't let me down. Bring on the next trip to the ballpark!
January 10, 2023
I thought I was in love with Parker, but Griffin has my whole heart.
I don't think Emily C. Childs knows how to write a bad couple.
Griffin's and Wren's chemistry was just palpable. They complimented each other in the best ways. Things just worked between them, and you couldn't help but root for the two of them.
Takeaways? Well, one read this book, duh lol. Two, Griffin is totally my new book boyfriend 😍
I don't think Emily C. Childs knows how to write a bad couple.
Griffin's and Wren's chemistry was just palpable. They complimented each other in the best ways. Things just worked between them, and you couldn't help but root for the two of them.
Takeaways? Well, one read this book, duh lol. Two, Griffin is totally my new book boyfriend 😍
July 29, 2022
(4.5 stars) - even better than book 1! 💕
Wren is a classic introvert - with baggage, while Griffin is a very sanguine extrovert - also with baggage; and initially, the two seem to have irreconcilable differences (from Wren's perspective not Griffin's, lol). But when their verbal clashes switch to a physical clash of sorts, they begin to see beyond outward appearances & to know each other better.
Griffin is pretty awesome, and I loved their love story. It was fun & touching & full of heart. I also loved that the story avoided the standard plot clichés, for the most part (& the one part that happened as expected was expected because it completely fit with the psychology & behavior of the characters involved, so it was reasonable)
Loving this team family & looking forward to Dax & Ryder's happily-ever-afters!
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
Wren is a classic introvert - with baggage, while Griffin is a very sanguine extrovert - also with baggage; and initially, the two seem to have irreconcilable differences (from Wren's perspective not Griffin's, lol). But when their verbal clashes switch to a physical clash of sorts, they begin to see beyond outward appearances & to know each other better.
Griffin is pretty awesome, and I loved their love story. It was fun & touching & full of heart. I also loved that the story avoided the standard plot clichés, for the most part (& the one part that happened as expected was expected because it completely fit with the psychology & behavior of the characters involved, so it was reasonable)
Loving this team family & looking forward to Dax & Ryder's happily-ever-afters!
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
April 8, 2023
This book was ADORABLE!!! I loved how sunshiney and quirky Griffin is and how Wren visibly gets happier the longer she’s around him. We stan a reverse grumpy/sunshine. The story was quick and interesting and had good inclusion of side characters so now I’m interested in the other books 😋
December 12, 2022
Love this series.
No big problem the protagonists had to overcome.
Nice side characters.
Good plot.
No big problem the protagonists had to overcome.
Nice side characters.
Good plot.
January 5, 2023
So cute! I wish the outside obstacles were a little more developed but it was sweet and clean!
April 20, 2025
I’m seriously getting hooked on this author’s books! This was such a fun, quick read.
April 22, 2024
The Curveball by Emily Childs
I really like the book but it is not one of my favorites out of the series.
*SPOILERS!!!*
Wren is an author with trust issues that stem from trauma (from her teen years). Her dad is not the best and that is what caused some issues. Wren wrote a book based on the baseball team. That is how she got to know the players and became involved in the team life. She was mentioned in the first book with Parker and Skye (when he needed his big love gesture). That is where she and Griffin became frenemies.
Griffin is the catcher for the Vegas Kings baseball team. He is a big sweetheart and a teddy bear. He is overprotective of his mom and now Wren. He kind of fell for her first and never really faked their relationship.
After a small accident and a tiny concussion, she is forced to stay with him (cause she was living in her car). Fortunately, he has a duplex, which gives her own space while still being close (cause of the concussion). This is where the whole fake dating, becoming friends, and lovers, happens. The rest of the story is about them trying to convince people they are dating (cause of a misunderstanding and eavesdropping). That is until they actually fall in love and start dating for real. Here, they deal with her traumatic past (Clay and her dad). Everything works out in the end and they are happy.
The epilogue is probably my favorite part of the book (perfect book lover proposal).
I really like the book but it is not one of my favorites out of the series.
*SPOILERS!!!*
Wren is an author with trust issues that stem from trauma (from her teen years). Her dad is not the best and that is what caused some issues. Wren wrote a book based on the baseball team. That is how she got to know the players and became involved in the team life. She was mentioned in the first book with Parker and Skye (when he needed his big love gesture). That is where she and Griffin became frenemies.
Griffin is the catcher for the Vegas Kings baseball team. He is a big sweetheart and a teddy bear. He is overprotective of his mom and now Wren. He kind of fell for her first and never really faked their relationship.
After a small accident and a tiny concussion, she is forced to stay with him (cause she was living in her car). Fortunately, he has a duplex, which gives her own space while still being close (cause of the concussion). This is where the whole fake dating, becoming friends, and lovers, happens. The rest of the story is about them trying to convince people they are dating (cause of a misunderstanding and eavesdropping). That is until they actually fall in love and start dating for real. Here, they deal with her traumatic past (Clay and her dad). Everything works out in the end and they are happy.
The epilogue is probably my favorite part of the book (perfect book lover proposal).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2022
I absolutely LOVE this series! Book 1, The Changeup, is a really excellent read, but there is something magical about The Curveball by Emily Childs. It’s totally because of Griffin. He is the BEST kind of hero. There is a moment where Wren describes Griffin as her sunshine, and that is the most fitting description for him. Griffin is sunshine and he totally makes this story. He is the kind of guy you want to be your best friend. He’s fiercely loyal, down to earth, and always so joy-filled. He constantly sees the good in people and in the world. But he is not a pushover. He has great radar for when one of his people is in harms way and he will do whatever it takes to keep him/her safe and happy. He also feels deeply, which means he can get his feelings way hurt. What I like so much about Griffin is he takes the “sports-guy” stereotype and turns it on its head. Yeah, he’s a super hot baseball player. He could get any girl he wants. But he isn’t that guy. He’s the kind of guy who lets his guard down and gets vulnerable around the right people, and he helps others to tear down their emotional walls so they can figure out how to get to the meat of what’s really holding them back. He is the BEST kind of hero and he is absolutely perfect for Wren. Poor Wren — I really did feel for her when she tells Griffin her secret, when she explains why she has such a strong wall built around her broken heart. But she is no shrinking violet. Wren is tough and courageous and capable. I 1000% related to her issues with her father and the issues that come with step-families. I get how hurtful it is to have a parent who isn’t interested in you, but rather in controlling you. I cheered Wren on as she learns to stand up for herself and set boundaries. Overall, more than any plot point or conflict, it’s Wren’s and Griffin’s characters that make this book so special. These are two excellent characters I wish I could meet in real life. They would be so cool to know.
There is so much more I could say about The Curveball. This review doesn’t seem to do it justice. I feel like I have to reign myself in though or I might spoil something. In all honesty, if you are a fan of superbly written Contemporary Romance that is wholesome, not fluffy at all, and includes some seriously good chemistry then definitely purchase a copy of The Curveball today. You will not be disappointed you did!
I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on July 27, 2022, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
There is so much more I could say about The Curveball. This review doesn’t seem to do it justice. I feel like I have to reign myself in though or I might spoil something. In all honesty, if you are a fan of superbly written Contemporary Romance that is wholesome, not fluffy at all, and includes some seriously good chemistry then definitely purchase a copy of The Curveball today. You will not be disappointed you did!
I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on July 27, 2022, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 1, 2023
4 stars. A great read with likeable characters.
Things I Liked:
-fake dating trope
-Griffin 🥰 - kind, loving, outgoing, protective of family and friends and just an all around golden retriever
-the first meeting between Griffin and Wren - I like how she didn't fall for his charm
-mutual pinning. Both Wren and Griffin had feelings for each since they met, they just had different ways of showing it (Griffin tried to get her to like him as a person and Wren tried to ignore the attraction because of her past)
-the friendships in this series - mostly between the four players, but also how welcoming they are toward their friend's partners/families
-Wren's family (minus her dad of course). I absolutely adored the dynamic between her brothers, mom, and aunt
-how quickly Griffin and Wren's family's welcomed one another as well as the others entire family
-Wren's relationship with her brothers - I love how close they were and I would be very interested in seeing both their love stories (one is single and the other is married with two boys)
-how the 'separation' wasn't dragged out but instead was depicted as a healthy night apart for Wren to figure herself out (her mental health and think about her trust in Griffin)
Things I Didn’t Like:
-Wren's father and ex-step brother (Clay)
-And just like the first book, I can't think of anything else that I didn't like
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-more of Wren's mom
-information about Wren's career - her next book came up quite a few times yet we never actually saw her writing
-another epilogue - I know we have the extended epilogue but I would've loved to see their (mostly Griffin's) reaction to Wren's pregnancy or the birth of their son (aka seeing Griffin becoming a dad)
Things I Liked:
-fake dating trope
-Griffin 🥰 - kind, loving, outgoing, protective of family and friends and just an all around golden retriever
-the first meeting between Griffin and Wren - I like how she didn't fall for his charm
-mutual pinning. Both Wren and Griffin had feelings for each since they met, they just had different ways of showing it (Griffin tried to get her to like him as a person and Wren tried to ignore the attraction because of her past)
-the friendships in this series - mostly between the four players, but also how welcoming they are toward their friend's partners/families
-Wren's family (minus her dad of course). I absolutely adored the dynamic between her brothers, mom, and aunt
-how quickly Griffin and Wren's family's welcomed one another as well as the others entire family
-Wren's relationship with her brothers - I love how close they were and I would be very interested in seeing both their love stories (one is single and the other is married with two boys)
-how the 'separation' wasn't dragged out but instead was depicted as a healthy night apart for Wren to figure herself out (her mental health and think about her trust in Griffin)
Things I Didn’t Like:
-Wren's father and ex-step brother (Clay)
-And just like the first book, I can't think of anything else that I didn't like
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-more of Wren's mom
-information about Wren's career - her next book came up quite a few times yet we never actually saw her writing
-another epilogue - I know we have the extended epilogue but I would've loved to see their (mostly Griffin's) reaction to Wren's pregnancy or the birth of their son (aka seeing Griffin becoming a dad)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2025
Eh... It was lackluster to me
**Spoilers ahead a couple paragraphs.**
So, I enjoy the characters of the series overall. These are definitely young adult (YA) books. There are no steamy fun romance bedroom scenes. There's not even any cursing. Like, they filter that out too but talk about cursing. Which is very YA to me.
Wren isn't a very strong character. She is timid and shy and meek. Not my cup of tea. Her strongest point was defending Griffin at the end against her dad and making her demands.
She went to therapy after her step brother, Clay, tried to put the moves on her and she was trapped under him with broken glass in her chest. But clearly the therapy didn't help as she held on to all that fear instead of pushing it out. (Her dad is stupid for keeping Clay around at all but that's also beside the point). I just couldn't relate to her and didn't really care for her overall.
Same for Griffin. He had his moments where he was really cool and I got a kick out of his nickname for her and the safe words, "Oxford comma" but, he ended up getting a bit more emotional than what I can deal with personally. I want an escape from reality and this book just didn't really provide that the way. I prefer my escapes.
**Spoilers ahead a couple paragraphs.**
So, I enjoy the characters of the series overall. These are definitely young adult (YA) books. There are no steamy fun romance bedroom scenes. There's not even any cursing. Like, they filter that out too but talk about cursing. Which is very YA to me.
Wren isn't a very strong character. She is timid and shy and meek. Not my cup of tea. Her strongest point was defending Griffin at the end against her dad and making her demands.
She went to therapy after her step brother, Clay, tried to put the moves on her and she was trapped under him with broken glass in her chest. But clearly the therapy didn't help as she held on to all that fear instead of pushing it out. (Her dad is stupid for keeping Clay around at all but that's also beside the point). I just couldn't relate to her and didn't really care for her overall.
Same for Griffin. He had his moments where he was really cool and I got a kick out of his nickname for her and the safe words, "Oxford comma" but, he ended up getting a bit more emotional than what I can deal with personally. I want an escape from reality and this book just didn't really provide that the way. I prefer my escapes.
August 10, 2022
“But you give an escape from reality, Wren. Sometimes reality sucks. I’m not sure you realize how much books can change people.”
I’m here crying while writing this because of the quote above. When I read it for the first time, I felt like I had been punched in the gut. That quote is something I’ve been telling people since high school when my depression finally took control of me. I would locked myself in the bathroom and sit on the floor while reading books for hours. It was my escape. Books are still my escape. I completely immerse myself into the story. My life is rough so why not become someone else in a book who mostly will find someone and have a happily ever after? It’s what I do. It’s my addiction. It’s why I’ve read all day and instead of going to sleep, I’m going to find another book to read because it’s better than trying to sleep and having my brain run through all of the negative things that happened. It’s why I call myself a bookaholic. I can never get enough escaping reality.
I’m here crying while writing this because of the quote above. When I read it for the first time, I felt like I had been punched in the gut. That quote is something I’ve been telling people since high school when my depression finally took control of me. I would locked myself in the bathroom and sit on the floor while reading books for hours. It was my escape. Books are still my escape. I completely immerse myself into the story. My life is rough so why not become someone else in a book who mostly will find someone and have a happily ever after? It’s what I do. It’s my addiction. It’s why I’ve read all day and instead of going to sleep, I’m going to find another book to read because it’s better than trying to sleep and having my brain run through all of the negative things that happened. It’s why I call myself a bookaholic. I can never get enough escaping reality.
September 6, 2022
Griffin Marks is the catcher for the Las Vegas Kings baseball team. He is one hot player but he has a heart of gold. And, his heart belongs to Wren. Wren is a romance author who writes sports romances. She just doesn't want to live one herself. Her past is complicated and she doesn't want to depend on any man, especially a man who she considers a player. But, the more she gets to know Griffin Marks, the more she sees that he is not the player she once thought him to be. He is a more gentle, kind, compassionate, protective man who seems to want her. Is she willing to risk her heart for the possibility of a lasting kind of love? The type of love that could heal her heart, once and for all.
This was a sweet, romantic story about two souls who have experienced the pain of loss but want to find a soulmate. I couldn't stand Wren's dad. He made me so angry and I almost wish she and her brothers had just written him out of their lives.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
This was a sweet, romantic story about two souls who have experienced the pain of loss but want to find a soulmate. I couldn't stand Wren's dad. He made me so angry and I almost wish she and her brothers had just written him out of their lives.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
April 30, 2025
🚨please see end of review for spice warning🚨
I’m a sucker for a baseball romance. There just aren’t enough of them. Well, not ones that are closed door.
I adored the relationship between Wren and Griffin. The way they were able to open up to each other and lean on and trust each other was adorable. Their families were amazing, and I loved how supportive the team members were as well. Truly one big family!
In the authors note there is a warning that a past “assault” is mentioned on page.
‼️There was no warning however that at the end I would be invited to follow a link to download a spicy bonus chapter. It was a bit of a let down, and as a recovering spice reader, it was a temptation. So if that is something you struggle with, I would NOT recommend reading this book. The story is absolutely sweet and swoony, I don’t remember any swearing, and no innuendos jumped out at me. But that invitation at the end is a stumbling block.
I’m a sucker for a baseball romance. There just aren’t enough of them. Well, not ones that are closed door.
I adored the relationship between Wren and Griffin. The way they were able to open up to each other and lean on and trust each other was adorable. Their families were amazing, and I loved how supportive the team members were as well. Truly one big family!
In the authors note there is a warning that a past “assault” is mentioned on page.
‼️There was no warning however that at the end I would be invited to follow a link to download a spicy bonus chapter. It was a bit of a let down, and as a recovering spice reader, it was a temptation. So if that is something you struggle with, I would NOT recommend reading this book. The story is absolutely sweet and swoony, I don’t remember any swearing, and no innuendos jumped out at me. But that invitation at the end is a stumbling block.
July 28, 2022
Wren and Griffin are a really cute couple. I love that Wren is a romance author and she really just is so adorable. Griffin also is really resilient. I like that he is a sweetheart and really cares for people. Even though he might appear like a player he treats people very well. Wren also is really strong. When I really learned later in the book what she went through my heart really broke for her. I like that she sets boundaries and is very strong emotionally. However, she is not afraid expressed her emotion. The romance in this book is so awesome. I love the pacing of the book. It is sweet with tons of chemistry but also high on the emotion. The forced proximity was hilarious. It was fun seeing the characters try to not fall for the other but really just loving each other. Go check out this book. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
August 4, 2022
Griff…what’s not to love
A romance writer & a professional baseball player just don’t go together! Wren is given the opportunity of access to The Las Vegas Kings as research for her next novel. Wren is friends with the owners daughter who happens to be the trainer for team. The management and players have welcome Wren and made her one of their own. Griff the catcher for the team is a one of a kind of guy, if you will what romance writers dream of as the perfect boyfriend, but Wren and Griff have a strange tug of war relationship.
Wren is closed off and Griff well he is to happy for his own good. This book takes you on a journey with these two and it’s an interesting dynamic.
I ran into this series by accident but I sure waited for this second book after reading the first and I’m sure looking forward to the next!.
A romance writer & a professional baseball player just don’t go together! Wren is given the opportunity of access to The Las Vegas Kings as research for her next novel. Wren is friends with the owners daughter who happens to be the trainer for team. The management and players have welcome Wren and made her one of their own. Griff the catcher for the team is a one of a kind of guy, if you will what romance writers dream of as the perfect boyfriend, but Wren and Griff have a strange tug of war relationship.
Wren is closed off and Griff well he is to happy for his own good. This book takes you on a journey with these two and it’s an interesting dynamic.
I ran into this series by accident but I sure waited for this second book after reading the first and I’m sure looking forward to the next!.
September 15, 2022
"Breaking news: a perfect man only exists within the tattooed skin of dead trees. Also known as books."
I adore Emily's writing! I can't get enough! I read this in 1 sitting because I couldn't put it down! She just sucks you right in. Wren and Griff has some fabulous banter! She's feisty and he's a cinnamon roll and I'm so here for it. This one is enemies to lovers with a dash of fake dating and I love both of those tropes! I love both of their character arcs and the way they grew! Their found family is so entertaining. I love their friendships!! Wren and Griff's extended families were hilarious!! I love the baseball world that Emily created! I can't wait to read Ryder and Dax's books! This is clean romance with closed doors but still steamy enough to make your toes curl!! I highly recommend Emily's books!!
I adore Emily's writing! I can't get enough! I read this in 1 sitting because I couldn't put it down! She just sucks you right in. Wren and Griff has some fabulous banter! She's feisty and he's a cinnamon roll and I'm so here for it. This one is enemies to lovers with a dash of fake dating and I love both of those tropes! I love both of their character arcs and the way they grew! Their found family is so entertaining. I love their friendships!! Wren and Griff's extended families were hilarious!! I love the baseball world that Emily created! I can't wait to read Ryder and Dax's books! This is clean romance with closed doors but still steamy enough to make your toes curl!! I highly recommend Emily's books!!
April 8, 2025
Rating scale:
⭐️ I hated it and possibly wish I could give zero stars.
⭐️⭐️ I didn't hate it, but my time could have been better spent.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked it, but there may have been specific elements that I found lacking.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked it a lot! A solid plot, great character development, and quality writing warrant this rating.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved it! This rating means that something about a book has captivated me enough to overlook any minor mistakes or inconsistencies because I am completely immersed in the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Pure perfection. A masterpiece. I will read these books time and again and will buy all the limited editions that I can find.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Curveball was a sweet romance with a golden retriever MMC. And no smut so far in this series! And baseball boys are always a plus in my book 😉
⭐️ I hated it and possibly wish I could give zero stars.
⭐️⭐️ I didn't hate it, but my time could have been better spent.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked it, but there may have been specific elements that I found lacking.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked it a lot! A solid plot, great character development, and quality writing warrant this rating.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved it! This rating means that something about a book has captivated me enough to overlook any minor mistakes or inconsistencies because I am completely immersed in the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Pure perfection. A masterpiece. I will read these books time and again and will buy all the limited editions that I can find.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Curveball was a sweet romance with a golden retriever MMC. And no smut so far in this series! And baseball boys are always a plus in my book 😉
October 7, 2024
4.5 Loved this opposites attract/forced proximity book! Griffin is the ultimate golden retriever. He makes people feel included and excited to be part of life. He’s close with his circle and fiercely loyal. Only one woman has ever resisted his charms - Wren. Wren has her own fears and doubts about love despite being a romance author, but it’s not done in a cliched way. Both characters have more depth than I was expecting and I was surprised how connected I felt to them. They each have scars they don’t show to many people. As they grow closer, they’re able to share those traumas - that doesn’t make it go away, but they can share each other’s burdens. Great story and well told! I loved seeing some past characters in there and teasing for the next book!
August 29, 2025
Contains kisses, mentions of panic attacks, attempted SA (trigger warning by author at beginning of book).
I forgot this was a “fake” dating start since the MCs never really mention it and they start dating for real to cover their tracks. I got the end of the book and realized that while one is an author and the other a baseball player we don’t read much about her book writing or he ball playing.
I was super confused about Wren’s family dynamic. I stopped reading a few times to try to figure it out (without reading spoilers). I think the author did it in purpose so that when Wren reveals it all to Griffin we get clarity too. It didn’t work for me. I would have liked to have known from the beginning so I wasn’t scratching my head in confusion for half the book.
I forgot this was a “fake” dating start since the MCs never really mention it and they start dating for real to cover their tracks. I got the end of the book and realized that while one is an author and the other a baseball player we don’t read much about her book writing or he ball playing.
I was super confused about Wren’s family dynamic. I stopped reading a few times to try to figure it out (without reading spoilers). I think the author did it in purpose so that when Wren reveals it all to Griffin we get clarity too. It didn’t work for me. I would have liked to have known from the beginning so I wasn’t scratching my head in confusion for half the book.
January 27, 2023
This was ok. I guess I didn’t read enough reviews because I didn’t realize this was a clean romance haha but it’s fine, I just like to calibrate my expectations. I liked both MCs and I appreciated how the dad knew about the assault and still took the dudes side instead of him not knowing and then kicking him out when he realized because deep down he did love his daughter. It was kind of ruined at the end when he gave the money and his little speech. Not everyone needs to be redeemed. Also I felt like there were too many things trying to make it drama but none were fleshed out enough to have an impact
May 4, 2023
Another great love story
I really enjoyed reading Griffin and Birdie's (aka Wren) love story. When you read Griffin's side of the story you get the feeling you want to know home, he's such a great guy. Wren, you want to wrap up and keep her safe. She's sweet. I knew she had a not so good life even though her father was rich, not a caring person. Loved her family, with the exception of a step brother. I love the way the group of teammates are there for each other. I always talk about the descriptions like the scenery, the homes (which sounded great) and the people, I can see it in my mind while reading about them. Written by Cindy :)
I really enjoyed reading Griffin and Birdie's (aka Wren) love story. When you read Griffin's side of the story you get the feeling you want to know home, he's such a great guy. Wren, you want to wrap up and keep her safe. She's sweet. I knew she had a not so good life even though her father was rich, not a caring person. Loved her family, with the exception of a step brother. I love the way the group of teammates are there for each other. I always talk about the descriptions like the scenery, the homes (which sounded great) and the people, I can see it in my mind while reading about them. Written by Cindy :)
January 6, 2024
Loved It
I have to say I enjoyed this even more than Dax and Blake's story. While I have to admit I'd like to see at least a fade to black scene on one of these books which acknowledges these are adult relationships which include adult activities I like how Childs take the time to put the focus back on the way the characters personalities mesh together. I like that she takes the time to give them shared experiences and traumas to work through together so they can grow together and blend together. The emotional sides of the stories in this series are well developed so its easy to believe these characters have a real love connection. Definitely recommended.
I have to say I enjoyed this even more than Dax and Blake's story. While I have to admit I'd like to see at least a fade to black scene on one of these books which acknowledges these are adult relationships which include adult activities I like how Childs take the time to put the focus back on the way the characters personalities mesh together. I like that she takes the time to give them shared experiences and traumas to work through together so they can grow together and blend together. The emotional sides of the stories in this series are well developed so its easy to believe these characters have a real love connection. Definitely recommended.
July 24, 2022
Love when the guy unapologetically pursues the girl! Griffin was so sweet and and kind while also very swoon worthy! Wren was super awesome I loved how you see different facets of her character. One moment introverted another moment highly protective of those she cares about and sometimes a bit feisty!
The secondary (family of both) characters were funny and cracked me up! It’s always a bit of an emotional journey with this author but so worth it. She really opens up your eyes to things people deal with daily that you might not otherwise think about!
The secondary (family of both) characters were funny and cracked me up! It’s always a bit of an emotional journey with this author but so worth it. She really opens up your eyes to things people deal with daily that you might not otherwise think about!
December 17, 2022
So good!
The Curveball was so good! I love getting the inside scoop on Parker Knight's teammates/best friends/brothers. Griffin has a smile for days and a sunny attitude. Usually. But I loved how he let Wren in and how they helped each other. Wren is practically a saint, she's so forgiving, and I was glad she got to know Griffin better and finally trusted him with her heart. The side characters of both Griffin's and Wren's families were a hoot, and I hope we get to see more of them to come. Can't wait for the next book!
The Curveball was so good! I love getting the inside scoop on Parker Knight's teammates/best friends/brothers. Griffin has a smile for days and a sunny attitude. Usually. But I loved how he let Wren in and how they helped each other. Wren is practically a saint, she's so forgiving, and I was glad she got to know Griffin better and finally trusted him with her heart. The side characters of both Griffin's and Wren's families were a hoot, and I hope we get to see more of them to come. Can't wait for the next book!
February 24, 2023
intrigued to find out
It’s always good when you want to know the hidden depths of a character from the outset. There’s something holding wren back and you can guess but you don’t know for a really long time. Griffin is the cutest love interest - we’ve met him before but not got a sense of what makes him tick apart from loyalty before. I like the way characters are hinted at and then we dive into them on the next book. Can be read as standalone but I’d suggest reading in order so there’s no spoilers of other books.
It’s always good when you want to know the hidden depths of a character from the outset. There’s something holding wren back and you can guess but you don’t know for a really long time. Griffin is the cutest love interest - we’ve met him before but not got a sense of what makes him tick apart from loyalty before. I like the way characters are hinted at and then we dive into them on the next book. Can be read as standalone but I’d suggest reading in order so there’s no spoilers of other books.
January 23, 2024
I really loved these characters and I really loved the story. The problem is I felt the writing in this story was kinda rushed and choppy. Like an editor was really needed for this. I saw great potential in the bones of this but the execution by the author fell flat. Which is a pity because I know she has the ability she showed it with her rockstar series. It’s like she put it out before she did rewrites and edits, not horrible but not polished and ready for readers yet either. Here’s hoping the next one is better.
July 27, 2025
Wren was a hit or miss for me. Interesting that they both have bird names ;) Griff is sweet. The beginning conflict I completely didn’t expect. Loved the ending. I am still not entirely sure what they looked like (to picture in my mind) but he has some red streaks in his hair? Maybe I wasn’t paying enough attention. I didn’t enjoy that they both had similar anxiety issues it’s like the blind leading the blind.
Content:
it was slightly less clean than the previous book (more kissing descriptions). There is cancer, trauma, and blood mentioned.
tropes:
Fake dating
Forced proximity
Content:
it was slightly less clean than the previous book (more kissing descriptions). There is cancer, trauma, and blood mentioned.
tropes:
Fake dating
Forced proximity
August 11, 2025
Griffin's obsession with Wren
He's been half in love with her since they met, but she's been cold always! He has no idea why she hates him so much! He's determined to win her over! Then he hits her car which requires a hospital trip for her and him to push through his fear of hospitals for her! He moves her into his duplex when he figures out she's living in her car, so that he can keep waking her because of her concussion. Then the story goes crazy from there! You don't want to miss a minute of if!!
He's been half in love with her since they met, but she's been cold always! He has no idea why she hates him so much! He's determined to win her over! Then he hits her car which requires a hospital trip for her and him to push through his fear of hospitals for her! He moves her into his duplex when he figures out she's living in her car, so that he can keep waking her because of her concussion. Then the story goes crazy from there! You don't want to miss a minute of if!!
July 31, 2022
Loved this story. Wren is really closed off emotionally and doesn’t let anyone get too close. Even though she is a romance writer lots she has a lot of baggage. Griffin uses the accident to get closer to Wren. Things, of course, get out of control quickly. You just have to read this amazing book. I love all the Perfectly Broken and Vegas Kings books and can’t wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary, honest review.
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