Books like 'Challenging the Shortstop'
Readers who enjoyed Challenging the Shortstop by Laura John also liked the following books featuring the same tropes, story themes, relationship dynamics and character types.
contemporary romance mlm friends-to-lovers sports university lgbtq slow-burn found-family insta-love
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Becoming Selfish by lizrose, Liz Tomforde
Rated: 4.58 of 5 stars · 12 ratingsELIThis is it. my senior year. My last shot to get called up to play in the National Hockey League. This season is about me. Though every season is about me. I'm the captain of my university's hockey team- the top scorer both o and off the ice- and everyone on campus knows my name.I feel the pressure every single day.I can't afford to get distracted... -
![Free from Falling by E.L. Massey]()
Free from Falling by E.L. Massey
Rated: 4.60 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsJustin “Matts” Matthews is good at a lot of things: Rubik’s Cubes, playing guitar, herding cattle, and most importantly for his career in the NHL, hockey. He’s not good at human interactions or social cues, especially when it comes to women. This deficiency is an annoyance rather than a problem, right up until he meets Sydney Warren. If it’s not love at first sight, it’s sure something close... -
![Like You’ve Nothing Left to Prove by E.L. Massey]()
Like You’ve Nothing Left to Prove by E.L. Massey
Rated: 4.43 of 5 stars · 14 ratingsAs the headline-stealing captain of the Houston Hell Hounds, nineteen-year-old Alexander Price has one goal: the Stanley Cup. He’s got the talent. He’s got the drive. But he’s also got an anxiety disorder and his therapist on speed dial. And, oh yeah, he’s gay. And he’s not willing to hide it anymore... -
![Splintered by Isabel Lucero]()
Splintered by Isabel Lucero
Rated: 4.50 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsWelcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa —the best place to go when all you want to do is disappear and not have anyone expect anything of you.Overwhelmed with work and feeling like I’m being pulled in multiple directions at once, I crave the serenity a private island holds for me... -
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![Loving the Legend by Kit Grey]()
Loving the Legend by Kit Grey
Rated: 4.40 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsSince Pro basketball player Ty “Pretty Boy” Washington picked up a basketball, he’s only ever wanted one to make it to the pro league and win championships. As the number one pick in the draft, he defies the odds in his rookie year by beating the record of one of the greatest players in the league, Sid “The Wonder Kid” King... -
![The Skeptic by Kelly Fox]()
The Skeptic by Kelly Fox
Rated: 4.40 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsFrom USA Today Bestselling Author Kelly Fox comes a new series set in one of Central Texas's fastest-growing river towns.You've heard of those romances where the priest is seduced by the worldly outsider? Yeah, this isn't that.I'm a gay preacher with more tattoos than sense and more notches on my bedpost than years in the ministry. I'm also not totally settled on the existence of God... -
![68 Days And Counting by Nikki20038]()
68 Days And Counting by Nikki20038
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 12 ratings~Sequel to The Bad Boy And The Tomboy~Macy Anderson and Sam Cahill are together in Manchester, England living the new university life. Their relationship is striving as they meet new people and experience different things and strengthen their beautiful relationship. But then again there's soccer, the Cahill family and girls because where there's Sam Cahill there will also be many girls... -
![Felix by Emmy Sanders]()
Felix by Emmy Sanders
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 12 ratingsWhat more could an exhibitionist want than a willing voyeur right next door? EmilI like being watched. I’m not ashamed of it, nor my job at Elite 8 Studios where fans know me as Felix. But when my newest costar turns out to be the very same neighbor I’ve been giving private shows to through the window, I’m thrown for a loop... -
![Rules of Engagement by Brigham Vaughn]()
Rules of Engagement by Brigham Vaughn
Rated: 4.38 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsRule #1: Don't fall in love with your best friend's brotherAfter Anders Lindholm lost his wife and baby daughter in a car accident, he knew he’d never find love like that again.Hockey, routines, and his team are all that have kept him going since.But as he approaches forty, an injury makes him consider what life after retirement will be like... -
![Halo by E.M. Lindsey]()
Halo by E.M. Lindsey
Rated: 4.30 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsOne mistake: Victor got into the wrong car.One decision: Oliver didn’t kick him out.One lie: neither of them knows who the other person is— at least, not until it’s too late to turn back.There are many words for what Oliver does for a living.Man of the night.Escort.Companion.Not to mention a few others his clients like to sling at him when they want to be cruel... -
![Wanted: Understanding Daddy by Sammi Cee]()
Wanted: Understanding Daddy by Sammi Cee
Rated: 4.30 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsIs it possible for a renewed friendship to lead to more? Dylan’s life changed for the worse back in middle school. Because of that, he ghosted his best friend, Brett, out of fear and embarrassment. Now, as things finally come together for him, he’s more concerned with earning a place back in Brett’s life than he is about finding the Daddy his friends think he needs... -
![Himbo by Emmy Sanders]()
Himbo by Emmy Sanders
Rated: 4.25 of 5 stars · 12 ratingsSurely I can’t fail at falling in love? CasNo one ever told me I might meet the love of my life on my knees in a coffee shop.I’m not one of those people who has everything figured out. I work at my dad’s company because it’s expected, not because I enjoy it... -
![The Freshman Year by Adam Van Dyck]()
The Freshman Year by Adam Van Dyck
Rated: 4.13 of 5 stars · 24 ratingsHey guys! It’s Tyler here, and this is the newest chapter of my life. Y’all are not going to believe this, but…I just joined the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee’s Men’s Soccer team! No, seriously, I actually did! I’m officially a Panther now! I did well on my youth soccer team, and I destroyed the opposing team in high school lacrosse, so I should be ready for college soccer, right?I wish... -
![Gravity: Written in the Stars Book 2 by Mia Monroe]()
Gravity: Written in the Stars Book 2 by Mia Monroe
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsHe was only meant to be a hookup. Until he became my coworker.Only I could ruin the hottest potential hookup ever. One look at the gorgeous ginger, and I was done for. I summoned every bit of courage I had, then panicked. As is my way. I managed to put it behind me until he became my new coworker. Now, every day is a reminder of my insecurities and what might have been... -
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![Care for You by Jayda Marx]()
Care for You by Jayda Marx
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsMiles - I may be young, but I know what I want. And what I want is Jake Woods. He’s funny, caring, gorgeous...and straight. Which is exactly why I need to stay away from him. I’m only going to get my heart broken. But I can’t help it; every day I fall a little deeper in love with the guy... -
![Maddie by Annabella Michaels]()
Maddie by Annabella Michaels
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsAfter witnessing firsthand just how dirty and underhanded a life in politics can be, Maddie Vanderhorne steps off the campaign trail to follow his passion. Starting his own event planning business is the best decision Maddie’s ever made, quickly winning over his clients with his vibrant and outgoing personality... -
![Playing by the Rules by Beth Bolden]()
Playing by the Rules by Beth Bolden
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsEx-quarterback Davis Abernathy knows he’s on his last chance.If he strikes out as Paxton Kelly’s coach, nobody else is going to call him. Not to get back on the field, and not to stand on the sidelines.He’s got a lot to teach Pax, and as a second-year quarterback, Pax has a lot to learn. But Davis doesn’t anticipate the irresistible way they’ll be drawn together from their first meeting... -
![The Red Zone by Beth Bolden]()
The Red Zone by Beth Bolden
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsSpencer’s deep in the Red Zone and it’s time to even the score. Nine years ago Spencer Evans became the first player out of the closet to be drafted into the NFL. Everyone believed he had aspirations to change the world but all Spencer ever wanted to do was play football for a team that accepted him wholeheartedly... -
![Plaything by Colette Davison]()
Plaything by Colette Davison
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsCan being Beau’s housemate and plaything, transform into forever love?A one-night stand with my housemate wasn’t the best idea, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting seconds.Beau is unexpectedly everything I want. He respects me and accepts me the way I am. He takes charge but relinquishes control to me when I feel the need.Nothing’s ever simple... -
![A Little Christmas: Morrie by B. Ripley]()
A Little Christmas: Morrie by B. Ripley
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsI’ve never made a Christmas wish, but if I could, I’d ask Santa for a Daddy who understands me.I learned early on in life that gentle hands and friendly smiles can hide darkness underneath. I shy away from cuddles and hugs and refuse to let anyone get too close to me. It’s safer if they stay away and I don’t mind putting up as many barriers as I can to keep everyone out of my space... -
![Catcher Interference by Haven Hadley]()
Catcher Interference by Haven Hadley
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsMarcus Warnes. The catcher at the top of his game.A knack for smack talking, a master play caller, and the quickest pop time in the league. The world saw the team playboy when all he wanted was to settle down with someone. To find the one. Marcus longed for holidays at home and a family to spend them with. His time in the spotlight didn’t make it easy to find... -
![Trade Deadline by Jodi Oliver]()
Trade Deadline by Jodi Oliver
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsBLAINEWhen my name is involved in yet another scandal, I’m told to keep my head down and my stats up. The trade deadline is looming, and I don’t want to leave Chicago.But that night, I meet Alex. The guy with the bluest eyes and the kindest smile.My reputation precedes me, and he’s determined to resist me, but the more time we spend together, the harder it is to deny the chemistry between us... -
![Meant To Be: A Prequel Daddy Novella by Sammi Cee]()
Meant To Be: A Prequel Daddy Novella by Sammi Cee
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsPJ couldn't be more surprised that he needs a Daddy in the bedroom...Joel and PJ met as pre-teens at Takoda Outreach Center. They’ve shared every secret, first as best friends, then roommates. But now that they’ve graduated from college, adulting presents circumstances and unforeseen problems that they never saw coming... -
![A Daddy In Cameron by Sammi Cee]()
A Daddy In Cameron by Sammi Cee
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsIndie’s determined to navigate this world alone, but he’s never come up against a determined Daddy before. Normally, everyone likes Cameron. As the General Manager of The Tap Tavern, he’s protective, empathetic, and considerate of his employees and their needs. Especially those who’ve come in through the Takoda Career Center. Indie knows betrayal. He’s lived with the consequences and survived... -
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![Touch In Excess by E.M. Lindsey]()
Touch In Excess by E.M. Lindsey
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsA man lost, and one found, and together they define the meaning of Excess. Gluttony's story coming soon... -
![Gin & Sin by Mia Monroe]()
Gin & Sin by Mia Monroe
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsHelping him explore his attraction to men was supposed to be no strings fun, not turn me into a whipped puppy dog, but here we are. The college twink scene is wearing on me. Sure, it works out for a no-commitment guy like myself, but the constant drama and faceless rotation of pretty boys in and out of my bed isn’t as exciting as it once was... -
![Requited by Jesse H. Reign]()
Requited by Jesse H. Reign
Rated: 4.29 of 5 stars · 7 ratingsIf you've read Unrequited, and have been left longing for more of Andy and West's story - you are in luck.Requited tells the story of roommates and best friends Andy Montgomery and West Baxter from West's perspective. It is a sweeping story of friendship that turns into longing that can't be ignored... -
![Angel Ink by Ali Lyda]()
Angel Ink by Ali Lyda
Rated: 4.25 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsNo one's ever caught me thinking with my manhood.Being demisexual means attraction doesn't always come easy. And it has a way of knocking me off my feet. I can't want Joel. I'm pretty sure he's scared of me, and we're working together.It's a recipe for disaster.Too bad my emotions say otherwise. And once they start talking, my body starts listening. I've been screwed by love before... -
![Waiting On Forever by E.M. Lindsey]()
Waiting On Forever by E.M. Lindsey
Rated: 4.25 of 5 stars · 8 ratings“Heat cannot be separated from fire, nor beauty from the Eternal.”-Dante AlighieriOf all the Sins, Sloth is the most deceptive. A baby face and a disarming smile hides the dangerous pleasures lurking beneath.Jet Denton has always been the sort of person who knows what life will offer.Unfairness.Inequality.Abandonment... -
![The Two Stars Collision by Hayden Hall]()
The Two Stars Collision by Hayden Hall
Rated: 4.25 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsWhen an adorable force meets an irresistible object they might just fall in love.MilesStudies astrophysics? Check.Loves Star Wars? Check.Still a virgin at twenty-one with zero experience in real life? Double-check.I didn’t want any fanfare around my twenty-first birthday... -
![Infamous Park Avenue Prince by Ella Frank, Brooke Blaine]()
Infamous Park Avenue Prince by Ella Frank, Brooke Blaine
Rated: 4.25 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsWho are we? Like you even need to ask. We’re the seven richer-than-sin legacies causing debauchery at the prestigious Astor University in Manhattan.Some call us spoiled.Some call us trouble.But everyone calls us the Park Avenue Princes.Weston LaRue“The Playboy”I’m never one to turn down a bet. Especially not when it comes to retaliating against the dean for pulling a dick move before summer break... -
![Second Time's the Charm by Stephanie Rose]()
Second Time's the Charm by Stephanie Rose
Rated: 4.25 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsThe only woman I’ve ever loved is the one I can’t have.Going from uncle to father overnight meant me moving back to my hometown after two decades away. Now, I’m trying to pick up the pieces and do right by a little girl who just wants her mom.When my twentieth high school reunion rolls around, I come face-to-face with Emily, the ex whose heart I broke before she could break mine...Categorized as:
sports slow-burn friends-to-lovers found-family romance contemporary fiction small-town -
![Concussion Protocol: A Short & Spicy MM Romance by Rebecca Rathe]()
Concussion Protocol: A Short & Spicy MM Romance by Rebecca Rathe
Rated: 4.25 of 5 stars · 8 ratingsA sweet and spicy short story by Rebecca RatheHe's a ten, but he's my ex-boyfriend's straight teammate and my patient... -
![Marc Jillson & The Gazebo by Anyta Sunday]()
Marc Jillson & The Gazebo by Anyta Sunday
Rated: 4.20 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsWant true, heart-throbbing romance? Put down the Cheetos, and stop being a jackass.The question is, can I do it?I’ve been an epic dick to my friends, my uncle. Him.Travis Hunter. Photographer, econ-student, paraplegic. Can I redeem myself? Apologize? Make a fresh start?Hunter seems to think so. Even roped me into saving his favorite gazebo from the bulldozers.The confidence of this man amazes me... -
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![The Professor's Date by Lane Hayes]()
The Professor's Date by Lane Hayes
Rated: 4.20 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsThe professor, the hair stylist, and a wedding date…TommyHelp! My sister is getting married and according to her, I need a date. And a makeover. I’m a busy man, though. I don’t have time to meet eligible bachelors, and the tape holding my glasses together works just fine. Until my hair stylist steps on them... -
![Golden Boy and the Two Bears by Nash Summers]()
Golden Boy and the Two Bears by Nash Summers
Rated: 4.20 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsAsher Williams is obsessed with love. His column is thriving, fellow students trust him with their relationship woes, and he’s on his A-game when it comes to matchmaking. At least, matchmaking other than his own. After a heartfelt letter written to his column, Asher is set on aiding the two love-struck heroes who desperately need his help... -
![Landing Levi by Jaclyn Quinn]()
Landing Levi by Jaclyn Quinn
Rated: 4.20 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsSage Rafferty I've wanted Levi ever since my friend Cole introduced us. When Levi moved to my hometown of Coral Pointe Inlet, I thought I finally had a chance to land the sexy, misunderstood man. After months of trying, though, it's clear he doesn't want me the way I want him. Putting some space between us is the only way to reclaim some of my dignity... -
![The Rockstar by Emerson Beckett, Rheland Richmond]()
The Rockstar by Emerson Beckett, Rheland Richmond
Rated: 4.20 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsThe first book in the sexy new bodyguard series set in the Package Deal World. Adam Spencer – “The Rockstar” Here’s what I know -- some people aren’t meant to find love. And as much as I want to be someone’s everything, that’s not meant for me. After a painful breakup, I channeled all my hurt into a song that has skyrocketed my band, Fallen Angel, to the top of the charts... -
![Rebound Control by Jodi Oliver]()
Rebound Control by Jodi Oliver
Rated: 4.50 of 5 stars · 10 ratingsElliotHow is it possible to be surrounded by people who love me, yet I still feel alone?Everyone is falling in love, and it’s like I’ve been left on the outside.I want that for myself, but the thought of putting myself out there is terrifying.Growing up being told you’re ‘too much’ puts a dent in your confidence, no matter how hard you try to hide it... -
![The Waiting Game by Brigham Vaughn]()
The Waiting Game by Brigham Vaughn
Rated: 4.17 of 5 stars · 12 ratingsFans Have Mixed Reactions to Engagement of Fisher Cats’ Hale and BrewerOn the eve of their first playoff game this post-season, the Toronto Fisher Cats organization sent out a press release announcing the engagement of their top d-pair.The release insinuates the childhood friends may have been involved as far back as college and makes it clear the front office supports the relationship... -
![The Hookup Mix-up by Riley Hart]()
The Hookup Mix-up by Riley Hart
Rated: 4.13 of 5 stars · 16 ratingsPerryI moved to San Luco to get to know my brother, and so far, it’s been great. Working as a bartender at Shenanigans, a bar close to Franklin University, there are beautiful men and women everywhere. When a hot guy falls into my arms at a party, I’m down for some naughty fun. Until I realize he’s way too drunk for anything to happen. Thankfully, we agree to meet up the next day... -
![King of Pain: by J.P. Joseph]()
King of Pain: by J.P. Joseph
Rated: 4.33 of 5 stars · 12 ratingsIn an epic love story caught between neon lights and shadowed pasts, two hearts collide. Their souls are bound by secrets, passion, and the undeniable pulse of the 80s. Anthony Pachini is guarded, haunted, and desperate to break free. Chance Sullivan is a hotter than sin rebel running from a fate already written. Together, they're headed straight for heartbreak—or redemption... -
![Una maldita confusión by América Rodas]()
Una maldita confusión by América Rodas
Rated: 4.29 of 5 stars · 14 ratingsJean intenta confesar su atracción hacia Olivia en una fiesta, pero por culpa del alcohol termina declarándose a su mejor amigo, Oliver. ***Cuando invitaron a Jean a la fiesta de una desconocida sabía que debía decir que sí, sobre todo porque necesitaba liberar el estrés de la escuela, de su casa, de su equipo de básquetbol y de él mismo... -
![My Ride, I Love You by Patrick Rangimant]()
My Ride, I Love You by Patrick Rangimant
Rated: 4.20 of 5 stars · 5 ratingsThis is a love story of Mork, who is a motorcycle taxi driver in Bangkok, and Tawan, a junior internal medicine resident doctor in the university hospital. Seems like they both have a small chance to meet, let alone the falling in love, but it did happen... -
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![Rough Contact by Beth Bolden]()
Rough Contact by Beth Bolden
Rated: 4.17 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsTheir romance is forbidden. Their love is a secret. Neal Fisher knows heartbreak. It's the clock ticking down in the Super Bowl. It's missing the most important field goal of his life. It's losing everything: his thirteen year career as an NFL kicker, his future, and his pride.Jamie Wright knows love. It's everything on the line as the crowd holds their breath... -
![Spiced Kisses by Charlie Novak]()
Spiced Kisses by Charlie Novak
Rated: 4.17 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsOne broken collarbone, two stubborn men, three interfering chefs, four weeks to go, five chewed garlands, and The Pear Tree covered in snow…Ben’s Christmas Plans:1. Finish the staff schedules, get the orders done, and make sure the next month runs smoothly because December is hell.2. Break collarbone at rugby.3. Scrap all plans. Drag Ianto in to help.4... -
![Nice Catching You by Ryan Taylor, Joshua Harwood]()
Nice Catching You by Ryan Taylor, Joshua Harwood
Rated: 4.17 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsWhat happens when the No. 1 college hockey star in the country falls in love—with a man?Nick Johnson, a top prospect for a pro hockey team, has a secret: he’s gay. Tired of living in the closet for the sport he loves, he sees no way out.Jacob Meyer’s string of bad boyfriends left him cynical about love. Instead, he focuses on his studies as a third-year law student... -
![Star of the Game by Amy Aislin]()
Star of the Game by Amy Aislin
Rated: 4.17 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsFelix only wants two things:1. To make music.2. His best friend, Emery.But he’s not willing to risk two decades of friendship for something more. Besides, a bout of writer’s block is preventing him from creating new material, and he’s got deadlines to meet. He doesn’t need any distractions—and Emery is the biggest distraction of all.Emery only wants two things:1. To play hockey.2... -
![Royal Lines by R.J. Scott, V.L. Locey]()
Royal Lines by R.J. Scott, V.L. Locey
Rated: 4.17 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsThey’re setting fire to the sheets, but a romance between an out and proud hockey star and a closeted playboy prince could end up burning them both.Marquis Miller might be one of the NHL’s best players, single, wealthy, and open about his sexuality, but he knows his future lies in taking over the reins of the family’s multimillion-dollar company after retirement... -
![Jericho Candelario's Gay Debut by R. Cooper]()
Jericho Candelario's Gay Debut by R. Cooper
Rated: 4.17 of 5 stars · 6 ratingsJerry Candelario, known as Potts to almost everyone, has spent his entire adult life focused on raising his siblings and his niece. But the home he fought hard to make feels empty since everyone has grown up and moved out, and his precious baby niece is now a teen with a life of her own...
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