I really loved this book. The characters were so complex and well developed. I loved the representation and everything. I loved Gene’s voice and who he was. I also loved Luis and his storyline and how family can make a huge difference in life. This book was so good had found family with real family. The minor league baseball was also so fun. This book was just so good and I need everyone to read it. The representation of mental health and queer characters was so well done and it was truly an amazing book. I think everyone should read it.

Thank you NetGalley and penguin random house for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review

So full of hope, joy, and warmth. Reads like a fanfiction in every best way possible. Fantastic characters and reputation with a strong and believable relationship that builds. Reading The Prospects feels like a comforting kiss on the forehead, or someone wrapping a blanket around your shoulders and saying, "Hey, you're going to be okay."

✨“And it doesn't feel so scary, letting him in - it feels like coming home, in every sense of the word.”✨

Gene Ionescu has always loved baseball. As the first openly trans player in professional baseball, Gene has nearly everything he's ever let himself dream of—that is, until Luis Estrada, Gene's former teammate and current rival, gets traded to the Beavers, destroying the careful equilibrium of Gene's life. As the two grow closer, the tension becomes something more. Soon, Gene has to reconcile the quiet, minor-league-sized life he used to find fulfilling with the major-league dreams Luis inspires.

THIS BOOK!! This book was fucking fantastic, and I loved every moment with it.

It's been a while since I read a contemporary rom-com (that's not like a smutty KU book) that made me feel like giggling, blushing, kicking my feet, but this book did. It's!!! So !!! Sweet !!!

Firstly, I love that it even exists. A book all about queer and trans joy: that follows the first out trans player in professional baseball. As the author's note says, sure, it may be unrealistic, but since when do rom-coms need realism? That's something that specifically queer romance books get criticized for all the time, and I think it's so annoying because it is a double standard. I don't see anyone criticizing an idk, Tessa Bailey book for its lack of realism *side-eye*

But what truly shines in this book is the characters. They're all so well written and created. They shine from the very first chapter. Even the side characters are great (ngl, I would love to read a book/a novella all about Vince bc I really liked him). That's because these characters aren't there just to serve their specific roles/tropes in a romance; they feel like fully developed people who also happen to be fictional characters. I loved Gene and Luis!! Especially Luis because I'm sorry if you put a man full of anxiety, who's also shy and down BAD, in front of me; I will deeply relate to him and immediately love him.

My only criticism isn't really a fault of the book, but I still don't know ANYTHING about baseball. I think it's because it's a very American sport, and I am not American! Nor do I like sports! They were just saying things all the time, and I had no clue what they were talking about. Like, I still don't understand what a shortstop is? Is that a top that is short? Is it someone that wears shorts? I DON'T KNOW IT COULD BE. So, in all the baseball game sequences, I was like, AH, yes. I definitely know what you're talking about, and I can picture it *laughs nervously*
Again, it's not the book's fault that my only baseball knowledge is 'I Don't Dance' from High School Musical 2. If you know a lot about the sport, you will probably have an easier time reading it. But even if you don't, it's still so worth it.

It's still early to say, BUT I think it will end up being one of my favorite romance books of the year. I was DELIGHTED.
Also, of course, thank you to the publisher for the ARC!!

Look, like I said, I don’t do baseball. I think it’s a silly sport. But I won’t lie – I do enjoy the social aspect of going to watch the local team (the Durham Bulls!) now and again. And it turns out that I really did enjoy reading this and imagining this team, their relationships and dramas and all of it, happening in that setting. It was low-key more fun than I’d anticipated. Also, I was entirely in support of this taking over of “America’s pastime” with queer characters. That is everything I want in a sports-based socio-cultural upheaval! One more sports comment… I thought the inclusion of the local game/color commentators was such a great nod to the uniqueness of small town/local sports. Granted my experience with that kind of commentary is all soccer-related, but I think the vibes are similar. And it was a really fun aspect and a great way to move the story forward quickly, at a few points (the baseball season is so long!), and I appreciated that.

As far as the rest of the book goes, Gene and Luis are so painfully, but sweetly, awkward. I was a little worried to start, because this is a “just one POV” romance (Gene’s), and I was afraid of Luis being able to get over his tough first impressions without his own narrative voice, but it turned out just fine. The enemies-to-lovers turn felt successful and genuine. They both ended up being so vulnerable with each other (content warning and shoutout for very real anxiety and panic attack rep) and I couldn’t get enough of that. I was also super happy with the overall way this played out, both with the relationship and with the baseball career storylines. There was a lot of messaging about following your own dreams, giving yourself the space to decide what exactly those dreams are, for yourself, and then allowing yourself to want and go for them. (A note here, there was also a wonderful side-story, two really, about also knowing when it’s time to let a dream go and find new ones – it was heartbreaking and fulfilling at the same time). Overall, there was a lot of emotional maturity showcased in this novel and I do love that in a romance.

Two random highlights: The Kyles. I mean all the teammates, really, but those three were great. Alright, also Vince. And the manager. Ok fine, the side characters were all really good (and very diverse!). The bonus material at the end – the walkout song list, the annotated bagel recipe and running playlist – were super fun and sweet additions.

Finally, I want to note that this book is so goddamn hopeful that it hurts. And that’s a feeling that is so important to have, now and again, and to remember how it feels. In reading the Author’s Note, that seemed to be a major purpose in the writing of this novel. And I want Hoffman to know that It. Came. Through. Maybe not everything that happens seems possible right now. But that doesn’t mean it won’t ever be, or that that’s a reason not to try/dream for it, and that is the message. The unabashed joy in being who you are – in regards to both gender and sexuality – is on full display here. And even if it’s not always/universally supported, it’s still very, very worth focusing on the many who DO support, and celebrate, that inclusion. When I finished reading this, I felt full. I love that feeling. Everyone deserves to have it, to see it for themselves and people like themselves. Beautiful.

I loved this book! The characters were relatable and lovable, the story was engaging and entertaining, and the romance was steamy! I loved the Pacific Northwest vibes, and I appreciated that it wasn't too focused on sports (as a non-sports fan). Lots of queer joy in this book, it was a great read!

What a sweet story. I’m so pleased to read a book that shows Trans* joy and sheds positive light on Trans* lives. This book is full of wonderful representation; it also features a service dog, and a Deaf character. This book felt like summertime. The confidence that exuded off of the page during the sex scenes was incredible to read. This story is perfect for readers who love baseball, queer representation, badass women coaches, rivals to friends and then to lovers, and reaching for your dreams.

The Prospects is, hands down, the most optimistic romance I've read so far this year. What's more impressive, however, is that it manages that optimism without crossing into 'cloyingly sweet' territory. To put it simply: I loved this novel. Every page.

Read this is you enjoy:

✦ sports-ball romance
✦ slow-burn
✦ superb characterization
✦ single POV
✦ therapy dogs

I look forward to putting this novel into the hands of patrons who already enjoy reading TJ Alexander, Cat Sebastian, Alexis Hall, Casey McQuiston...and the list goes on. I also look forward to rereading this some weekend when I'm feeling overwhelmed by the pessimism of the real world.

This book was super cute. Had a good storyline. It centered around baseball and I am a sucker for sports romances. I loved the connection between Gene and Luis and it felt very natural.

The Prospects by KT Hoffman is a modern day baseball romance novel featuring Beaverton Beavers player Gene Ionescu. He is an optimist at heart who loves baseball and his team. Gene is the first openly trans professional baseball player and is happy with his life. Then Luis Estrada, his former teammate and current rival is traded to the Beavers.

Gene and Luis do not get along at all, on or off the field but over time the long bus trips allow them to become more comfortable with one another and their success on the field starts emerge. And their personal connection? Electric! As Gene falls more and more for Luis he also finds himself wanting the world.

With Gene's wanting for more will he and Luis be able to find a romance together or will Gene take off on his own? Read this beautiful debut novel to find out.

As a huge fan of MM and queer romance as well as a n avid baseball fan this novel was brilliant! The storyline was impeccable and the characters were incredibly well written. I truly fell in love with Gene and Luis and felt myself wanting their love to blossom full force. As not to spoil anything, this is a must read queer romance!!

I absolutely loved this book!! I am a huge baseball fan and it was amazing to see the various different types of representation within the baseball world. I loved Gene and Luis and their friendship and relationship. They felt like real people and their actions made sense. I highly recommend this one!

This story was so unique, as a baseball fan I absolutely loved reading Gene's story. However, it did feel a tad long and drawn out in my opinion. That being said, as a debut novel, KT is a fantastic writer and the book was definitely fun and a good romance.

⚾️eARC Book Review⚾️

“Maybe—maybe—this is what it feels like to let people love you even when you fail.”

The Prospect by KT Hoffman
Pub Date: April 9, 2024
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟(4/5)
Spice:🌶🌶️🫑 (2.5/5)

Review:
Gene Ionescue is a trans, gay career minor league baseball player. He has spent the last 2 seasons at Beaverton the triple A team for Portland. Luis Estrada Jr. has been traded to Beaverton after returning to baseball from a bad injury the year prior.

Gene starts the season with deep loathing for Luis as they played college ball together. When Luis declared for the draft he didn’t tell Gene and that left a bad taste in genes mouth. However, when Coach Baker moves Gene to second to let Estrada play short stop, it’s clear the two will need put their differences aside to work together.

K T Hoffmans debut novel is stellar. He does a great job of telling Genes story. While the story was a bit slow to start, once the boys got passed their differences the story really opened up.

My favorite additions at the back of the book are genes bagel recipe and Luis’s running playlist


If you like:
- A league of their own
- Queer Love
- Enemies to Lovers
- Judaism

QOTD: What is your favorite baseball team or stadium?

Thank you to Net Galley and Dial Press/ Penguin Random House for proving me with an eARC of this novel.

This book was SO GOOD! First off, it’s more like six stars for the prose alone. This kind of writing made me get sucked in every time I picked it up. Like truly I’m so excited to read the next KT Hoffman book.
Also— and I cannot emphasize this enough- he really had me out here caring about sports. Like I’ve always liked baseball to an extent, and yes there were terms I didn’t know, but this book made me want to watch a game!
Gene is the most optimistic character I’ve read in such a long time and truly what a joy to be in his head. Also this book was so gay and I loved it. Luis is also such a sweetheart! I love their love story, I love Luis’s journey to finding himself over the novel, and I LOVED the dog. More dogs in romance novels please! 🙏 This has a plucky underdog minor league baseball team, the first trans minor league baseball player, plus queer friendship, and sports teammates I would actually want to hang out with. LOVE. 💕

This was such a cuuuute romance! There’s rivals to lovers, there’s secret dating, there’s so much pining! there’s mental health discussions, there’s washing each other’s hair, there’s holding while crying…

If I summarized this book in one word it’d be hope. Letting yourself hope, and having the courage to reach for the things you want.

I loved Gene, the MC. He’s a ray of positivity for everyone but himself and wants to make sure everyone else is happy, while struggling with letting himself be happy. There were some parts in the book where he talks about the difference between hoping and wanting, and what he will and won’t let himself do. It felt so precious and real.

Luis, is a sweetheart of a love interest. He is a bit shy and keeps to himself, especially because of his anxiety. But despite that, it felt like he was a lot more open to love than Gene was. I loved how even though they both cared for one another, Luis felt like he was ready to commit fully from the get go.

And I loved these two together. It’s possible it got a bit codependent at times, but like I’m more okay with that in romances? There was just so much love and support between these two. I pointed out a few instances at the very top, but believe me, they’re really cute together.

I also thought the third act breakup was done well and made sense within the story. It didn’t make me angry at all! 😲 And that’s a big accomplishment.

I also loved:
+ ALL the characters
+ how supportive the team is
+ a sprinkling of spice
+ the little extra stuff in the book like the game-time commentaries, bagel recipe, playlist etc.

What I liked less:
- Okay, it’s a baseball book, so I’m not blaming the book for this, but I didn’t realize how much prior baseball knowledge I’d need to read this? There is a GOOD amount of terms in there, and a lot of details at times about the games. And it basically read like a foreign language to me. I needed a glossary or a crash course in baseball.
- This is usually my issue with romances with “enemies” to lovers, where they were only enemies because of misunderstandings in the past… I need those misunderstandings to be ironed out on the page. I want them to talk about it, understand one another and then move on from it. This is somewhat done in this book, but there are aspects I’m still confused about why the LI acted a certain way in the past or at the beginning.
- A bit slow for me at the beginning though likely because of the first point here.

Overall rating: 4.5 ⭐

Thank you so much to Random House, Dial Press Trade Paperback and NetGalley for the eARC!

This book had me squealing, I thought it was so cute. We follow Gene "Nes" Ionescu, a trans minor league baseball player for a team in Oregon. His former teammate and current rival, Luis "Strada" Estrada gets traded to his team leading the rivals to friends to lovers. The cast of characters is pretty diverse with plenty of queer and disability rep (even with 3 teammates named Kyle). I absolutely loved the trans joy and hope we got to experience with Nes as he gains confidence in his baseball skills and started to want things for himself and his future.
I'd consider this romance to be about a 2 on the spicy scale and damn was that spice done well.

Thank you to Netgalley and Random House for this advanced copy, all opinions are my own.

This book was so fun and joyful! It is filled with heart and hope and characters that you can't help but root for. Hoffman wrote characters (not just Gene and Luis, but the side characters as well) who are flawed and multi-dimensional. They make mistakes and say the wrong things, but they're supportive and the best sort of found family. I love that while the author doesn't shy away from the fact that transphobia and homophobia exist, none of those things play a central role in this story. Yes, Gene is a trans gay man in professional baseball, but it's not a major source of angst or drama in his story. It just is who he is.

This book did drag a bit for me in parts, and there was a lot more "telling not showing" (though I feel this is common with 3rd person POV) than I like to see in romance. Additionally, I think we missed out by not getting more of Luis and Gene's backstory. I think that could have added a lot of depth to their relationship, and also helped explain their adversarial relationship in the beginning. That said, this is a debut for this author, and it's a VERY solid one. I'm looking forward to reading more of their stories in the future!

I really enjoyed this book! I loved Gene's relationships with Baker, Vince, his teammates, and most importantly, Luis. This book just filled me with so much joy. I could've easily read another 300 pages.

I love love love LOVED The Prospects. I loved Gene and I loved Luis. This book was charming, funny, hopeful, heartfelt, made me have feelings about minor league baseball. It's everything you need.

These chaos muppets were a delight. The anxiety rep was top tier. And not in the “I did something impulsive and possibly regrettable because ahh! But thank goodness they still understood and forgave me” but like…there was no looking for or needing forgiveness for anything. Just patience and understanding and I really appreciated that.

I’m still not a sports reader and there was a lot of that. I know! It’s a sports romance. Why pick it up? Idk sometimes I like to double check and this sounded good! And it was. I just…might have read faster for parts. But I’m 10000% sure my yuck is another person’s yum so whatever.

Ahhhh idiots in love supremacy!! Jeez I absolutely adored everything about this book! I'm not even a baseball fan but this had me in a chokehold. I will definitely be recommending this to absolutely everyone I know that enjoys queer romances and sports. I need more Gene and Luis.