Playing Hard

Scott’s cozy fourth installment of the New York Saints sports romance series (after Lawless in Leather) pairs a Wall Street economist with a fun-loving baseball player for a romp that combines heart and heat. After 14 years on the New York Saints, first baseman Oliver Shields is good and ready to make the playoffs—no matter how much upstart transfer Finn Castro might want his spot on the team. Oliver meets Finn’s honorary big sister, Amelia Graham, at a team party, and he’s intrigued by the witty beauty. Amelia’s deeply indebted to the Castro family—they looked after her when her own family was unable to—but does that extend to despising everyone that Finn dislikes? After a dramatic event rocks Oliver’s world, he tries to figure out whether Amelia can be a part of his new life, while she worries about the secret she’s keeping from him. Scott’s agile storytelling and engaging characters make this contemporary tale one to savor. Agent: Irene Goodman, Irene Goodman Literary Agency. (Feb.)