Book picks similar to
Bad Ballers by S.J. Bishop


dnf
contemporary-romance
01-books
contemporary

Persuaded by the Hero (Heroes of Freedom Ridge)


Elle E. Kay - 2021
    Her decision will decide their future.Bryce hasn’t laid eyes on Sabrina in three years despite visiting Freedom Ridge every Christmas. Not that he could blame her for avoiding him. He left town in a hurry and without a backward glance. He isn’t the same irresponsible kid from back then—the Army changed him. But convincing her to trust him again will be a challenge.Avoiding the man she’d once loved every Christmas season was one thing, but now he's back. And he's her boss. Sabrina isn’t prepared to work for Bryce—it will make it impossible to keep her secret. Their story might have derailed three years earlier, but her humiliation feels fresh. Had God rescued her only to throw her back into the mouth of a hungry lion?They soon discover time apart didn’t dim their chemistry and long for buried feelings rise to the surface, but will they have a second chance at romance or is the risk of involving him in her son’s life too great?Return to Freedom, Colorado and enjoy the faith, friendships, and forever-afters of the Heroes of Freedom Ridge in this Christian Christmas romance.Persuaded by the Hero is Book 11 in the Heroes of Freedom Ridge series, but each book can be read as a standalone.

The Guardian Groom


Lucy McConnell - 2018
     Bree Phelts is shy, enjoys reading, and spends her free time helping her mom. Her biggest worry is figuring out a grand prize for the summer reading program. Her black and white life is splashed with color when Owen Mattox, a professional football player, asks her to step out from behind the refreshment table and dance. He’s wrong for her on so many levels but just what her heart needed to wake up. Devastated when he’s dumped by the only woman he ever imagined marrying, Owen Mattox pulls his heart in tight and doesn’t let go. He’s worked so hard to isolate himself from love—and the pain that comes when it’s lost—that he practically a recluse. He doesn’t even hang with the other Texas Titans players and builds his home outside of Dallas for privacy. The fewer people in his life, the fewer chances of getting hurt. But he can’t deny his interest in the quiet librarian and once they dance, he’s hooked. But Owen doesn’t open his heart easily which means Bree will have to overcome her shyness and be her own hero—instead of reading about one—in order to save the love that’s budding between them.

Reckless Hart (A Cross Creek Small Town Novel Book 4)


Kelly Collins - 2021
    When Noah goes behind my back and hires Lauren, my gut tells me something isn’t right about the beautiful, intelligent woman.When she uncovers a company secret, I rethink my doubts about her.When her ex pops back into her life, I’m on guard again.When her adorable daughter and snaggle-toothed, one-eyed dog melt my heart, I lose sight of what’s important.In the end, I should have gone with my gut. She’s trouble with a capital T. The question is, what do I do when I’ve fallen for her, already love her daughter, and my company needs her expertise?

The Sheikh's Imposter Bride (Sweet Sheikh Surprises Book 3)


Holly Rayner - 2021
    

Empowered


Cynthia Dane - 2017
    He’s the bonus. One bad decision destroys not only Sarah Clayborn’s life, but nearly costs her a lucrative job as the chief executive assistant to the city’s most powerful player. She’s lost her unborn child, her twin brother’s admiration, and any shred of decency her British-born mother instilled in her. To cope with the trauma, Sarah creates a persona – Angel. She’s the one who goes out on weekends and gets into trouble. She’s the one who seduces half the world’s rabble-rousers. She’s the one who meets Lucas Blackbourne. Sarah’s encounter with Lucas was supposed to be a one-time affair. A tenuous balm on her frigid heart that refuses to heal. But when she returns to work Monday morning and discovers that Lucas is helping her boss for the foreseeable future? Two halves start to become whole again. And it’s not pretty. What does Sarah want? Choice. A future. A sense of belonging in a world often too cruel to bear. To be empowered. But she can’t reclaim her life on her own. -Excerpt- “You presume to know my greatest regrets yet.” A growl powered through the undercurrent of his voice. Still, he did not look away from her eyes. “No. I presume to know what you desire, sir.” “Because…?” He was fishing for the perfect answer. If Sarah failed to supply it, she could kiss this encounter goodbye. “Because I want you just as badly.” Lucas eyed her with careful consideration. He sucked one of his cheeks into his mouth before looking away. He crossed his legs. She kept her grin of triumph to herself. “You don’t even know me, Angel.” “That’s supposed to be my line, Lucas.” He stood up behind her. His presence enveloped her, inviting her back against his chest, arms wrapped protectively around her. Sarah caught the eye of the server who had brought her the scotch. The woman smiled in approval and flashed the number four in her direction. Room 4 is available. Good to know. “This whole night is so backward. Next you’ll be telling me you want to be on top.” “Actually,” she said with a happy sigh, “I’d much rather you take the lead on that. If you don’t mind.” “This has got to be some kind of trap.” Lucas bit his knuckle, as if he could barely restrain himself from grabbing her and hauling her off to the nearest bed. What’s stopping you? I don’t have all night. “What’s your story, Angel?” “Don’t you know the story of any angel, sir?” Sarah stepped away, her hand lingering against his chest. His hard, devilish chest that was a greater siren song than that warm voice echoing in her ears. “Once we’re doing shit like this on Earth, we’re considered fallen goods.” “A fallen angel hasn’t done anything good with her existence.” “If you don’t consider doing this something good,” she began, walking in the direction of Room #4, “then I don’t know what to tell you. You either want me or you don’t, Lucas. No strings attached. Should be a dream for you.” She winked at him. He followed her.

Head Over Heels


Hannah Orenstein - 2020
    Her best friend and teammate, Jasmine, went on to become an Olympic champion, then committed the ultimate betrayal by marrying their emotionally abusive coach, Dimitri.Now, reeling from a breakup with her football star boyfriend, Avery returns to her Massachusetts hometown, where new coach Ryan asks her to help him train a promising young gymnast with Olympic aspirations. Despite her misgivings and worries about the memories it will evoke, Avery agrees. Back in the gym, she’s surprised to find sparks flying with Ryan. But when a shocking scandal in the gymnastics world breaks, it has shattering effects not only for the sport but also for Avery and her old friend Jasmine.

Mountain Lumberjack


Sienna Chance - 2018
    But things quickly spun out of control. Now rumors are circulating the resort. And she’s in a LOT of trouble. I have to help! I have to protect her. With my strong, hard body, I’ll show her how a real man treats a woman. And I’ll keep her safe, as I get to the bottom of all of this...

The Movie Star Becomes a Cowboy


April Murdock - 2021
    After a messy divorce, she devotes herself to caring for her five-year-old son and running Silverstone Ranch. She may not be happy, but she can be content—if her eccentric father will only give his passion projects a rest.The latest involves hosting Cade Cooper, a drop-dead-gorgeous movie star, for an “all-inclusive” learning experience. With the upcoming rodeo, Marguerite doesn’t have time to placate an entitled snooty celebrity who insists on getting in her way. It’s as if Cade wants to annoy her.Cade prides himself on researching every role he lands, right down to the boots. His visit to Silverstone Ranch starts out like every other research trip… until he meets Marguerite. Intelligent, beautiful, and in charge, Marguerite’s nothing like the superficial women he spends time with in L.A. And her little boy is too adorable to resist.She won’t trust any man again, let alone a method actor. He’s determined to convince her of his sincerity. Then circumstances force him to break the one promise he made her—and she may never be able to forgive him.

The Changeup


A.M. Williams - 2019
    Tall. Handsome. Compassionate. Confident. He makes me feel things I haven’t in years.There’s just one problem: me. He can’t stand me and I’m getting to where I can’t stand him either.The glares stiffen my resolve to forget about my dream man and concentrate on my new job.Except...eventually those stares turn to something more. More heated. More promising. More everything.ChaseEmma Carlisle is what I didn’t know I needed in my life until I saw her.I don’t want her in my life, though. I have too much riding on my shoulders to concentrate on a relationship. A sick mom. A team owner who’s breathing down my neck to win a baseball championship.It’s easier to ignore her and pretend like she doesn’t exist than to think about how pretty she is or how I feel alive whenever she's around.But one surprise kiss and I’m left wanting more. One glimpse into what love could be like and I can’t think of anything else.We have to decide if it’s worth tempting fate and the flames of desire to see what love might be like.The Changeup is the first book in A.M. Williams Boys of Summer baseball romance series. It’s a workplace, enemies-to-lovers romance that features two perfectionists struggling to come to terms with the curveballs life has for them.If you love men in tight pants and the sassy women they fall for, this series is for you.This book was previously published as Coached in Love. It has been updated with new content and re-edited.

Auction House: A Dark Billionaire Romance


Piper Stone - 2022
    He took me for himself instead.When I went undercover to investigate a series of murders with links to Steele Franklin's auction house operation, I expected to be sold for the humiliating use of one of his fellow billionaires.But he wanted me for himself.No contract. No terms agreed upon. No say in the matter at all except whether to give in to his shameful demands with or without him stripping me bare and spanking me into submission first.I chose the second option, but as one devastating climax after another is forced from my naked, quivering body, what scares me isn't the thought of him keeping me locked up in a cage forever.It's knowing he won't need to.Publisher's Note:Auction House includes spankings and rough, intense sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.

Devil's Disciples MC Romance Series : The Complete Boxed Set


Scott Hildreth - 2019
    Six very different tales of badass alpha males who have one thing in common--they treat their women with respect. The Devil's Disciples are an unconventional Motorcycle Club comprised of modern-day outlaws. Each book tells the tale of a different member of the MC. The books may be read as a stand-alone, with a complete story being told about that respective Hero and heroine. There is no cheating, no abuse, and no sex outside the relationship. This Complete Box Set includes the following books: BAKER- The Club President is taken by surprise when the bank teller from a recent robbery moves in next door to the clubhouse. CASH - The club muscle has a one-night-stand with the neighbor of another member. Soon, it's an addiction he can't stop. GHOST - The pivot man for the club falls head over heels for a world-famous philanthropic social media influencer. GOOSE - Ally Northrop is a female race car driver that yearns to get into the club as a getaway driver. Her other skillset is cracking safes. Sounds like a match made in heaven... RENO - When a man threatens a waitress at a restaurant Reno is eating in, he can't help but step in and take care of business. There's one problem: The man's boss is the head of the biggest cartel in Mexico... TITO - The club's intelligent planner falls for a woman whose father (unbeknownst to him) is investigating SoCal's outlaw biker clubs. This series is smoking hot, hard to put down, and will undoubtedly change your mind about MC romance, bikers, and outlaws. What reviewers are saying about this not-to-be-missed series: This was my first taste of Scott Hildreth's work. I will read everything of his that I can get my hands on. I laughed. I cried--no, I bawled my eyes out. I have almost NEVER felt as many emotions through a series as I did with this one. It was so beautifully written. You love the characters so much. I honestly don't have the words to describe how much I treasured this set of books. - Goodreads With lots of hilarious banter, emotional turmoil, heartbreaking childhoods, suspenseful twists and turns, and unexpected surprises that you will never see coming, this was a fantastic series that everyone who loves MC's will enjoy. - Goodreads You MUST get this collection. Once you start reading, you will NOT stop until the very last page. - Amazon reviewer I have been a fan of your work since I picked up the Filthy Fu##ers boxed set in 2016 and you continue to exceed expectations every single time. - Amazon His characters are some of the most real characters I have ever read. - Amazon I highly recommend this set and would post 10, that's right, 10 stars if possible! - Goodreads This will definitely be put in my "to be read again" folder! - Goodreads Scott Hildreth is a genius MC erotica author. Read anything he writes. - Amazon This was my first taste of Scott Hildreth's work. I will read everything of his that I can get my hands on. - Amazon

Trouser Snake (Players)


Teagan Kade - 2019
    It won’t play nice, act soft, or be your BFF. But it will blow your mother-pucking mind. I’m the guy who arrives with girl A and leaves with girls B and C. A hockey rockstar. An ice-cold scoring machine. I thought coaching the NHL’s newest team would be a walk in the park. I didn’t expect the exquisite torture that is Rae Walsh. She’s a pocket rocket of a PR stunt, our latest recruit with a pretty mouth and tight little body to match. She’ll be the only woman in the league, which means she’s a) completely insane, and b) about to enter a world of pain. I don’t need that kind of distraction, not when I’m yet to prove my coaching chops. But the more I resist the more I want to pin her down and prove why I’m the best in the game. Getting together would be career suicide. I’d be risking everything to be with her, my legacy included. But sometimes the risk really is worth the reward. Sometimes you’ve got to bet everything to score BIG. Go full throttle or go the hell home with this swoon-worthy new sports romance from best-selling author Teagan Kade. Trouser Snake is a full length, standalone bad boy romance packed full of steamy surprises. There’s no cheating, no cliffhangers and a guaranteed HEA. Don’t miss it!

When It Rains... He Pours


Leah Holt
    I told them no.But after someone breaks into my gallery, destroying everything I own, and threatening me; I start to question how I'll ever come back from this.Until a stranger comes to my rescue, risking his own safety for mine.He saved me.Bold and charming, his muscles were hard as rock and his strength was fierce; he made everything right.Life began to fall back into place, and for a brief moment, I was able to forget about everything else. I wish that moment could have lasted a little bit longer.Because everything I thought I knew about my hero was a lie. He wasn't my savior, he was my enemy.I heard that bad things happen in threes.The break in, the lies... I didn't know what was next.I guess it's true, when it rains—he pours.And this man laid it on thick in all the right places.So how do I let him go?

By All Appearances


Dawn Kinzer - 2019
    No matter what she does, Liana feels she never measures up.Bryan Langley, a talented musician, was close to signing a recording contract when a barn fire left part of his face severely burned. He survived, but his career did not.When Liana’s father hires Bryan as a caretaker on the family estate outside of Seattle, Liana’s and Bryan’s lives become entangled. He risks public humiliation for Liana’s success, and she encourages him to use his musical gifts, despite his reluctance. Thrown together, will they achieve their elusive dreams? And will the two find the love and acceptance they yearn for, or will their actions only drive each other away?

Chasing Sunshine: Gods of Chaos Motorcycle Club, Book 13


Honey Palomino - 2020
    Each book can be read as a stand-alone book, but they are best if read together.