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Living Legends #2
The Money Pitch
“Mo was 38, and I was 25. He was in the middle of my danger zone, but any serious thoughts of him as anything beyond intermittent eye candy were impossible. We had a past, and it wasn’t a pleasant one.”
Jack Madison is a 25-year-old graduate student working through his academic program while completing a book project on his famous father, baseball relief pitcher J.W. Madison. Charlotte, North Carolina is his home city, and also the home to the recent baseball expansion franchise the Charlotte Yellowjackets.
Mo Sadler is a 38-year-old big league relief pitcher nearing the end of his active playing career when an off-season trade brings him to Charlotte. After getting over the initial shock of being sold off to a team with little hope for making it to the postseason, Mo is pleased to be playing in close proximity to North Carolina’s Outer Banks, the location of his treasured beach home.
An interview opportunity for Jack’s book brings them together at Mo’s Hatteras Island house and attraction blossoms into desire. There are only two big problems. Mo is Jack’s father’s legendary baseball nemesis, and Jack abhors the celebrity spotlight. Both men know the relationship should be impossible, but the heart wants what it wants and won’t give up so easily. Mo’s money pitch in baseball is the slider. Faced with a relationship in the process of crumbling, he sets out to concoct a real-life money pitch to permanently win Jack’s heart.
The Money Pitch is a 54,000-word gay baseball romance with steamy scenes, a happily-ever-after ending, a lucky rabbit’s foot, and dancing on the sand. It is the second in the series Living Legends following A Brand New Ballgame. Multiple characters appear in both books, but it can be read as a standalone novel.
Jack Madison is a 25-year-old graduate student working through his academic program while completing a book project on his famous father, baseball relief pitcher J.W. Madison. Charlotte, North Carolina is his home city, and also the home to the recent baseball expansion franchise the Charlotte Yellowjackets.
Mo Sadler is a 38-year-old big league relief pitcher nearing the end of his active playing career when an off-season trade brings him to Charlotte. After getting over the initial shock of being sold off to a team with little hope for making it to the postseason, Mo is pleased to be playing in close proximity to North Carolina’s Outer Banks, the location of his treasured beach home.
An interview opportunity for Jack’s book brings them together at Mo’s Hatteras Island house and attraction blossoms into desire. There are only two big problems. Mo is Jack’s father’s legendary baseball nemesis, and Jack abhors the celebrity spotlight. Both men know the relationship should be impossible, but the heart wants what it wants and won’t give up so easily. Mo’s money pitch in baseball is the slider. Faced with a relationship in the process of crumbling, he sets out to concoct a real-life money pitch to permanently win Jack’s heart.
The Money Pitch is a 54,000-word gay baseball romance with steamy scenes, a happily-ever-after ending, a lucky rabbit’s foot, and dancing on the sand. It is the second in the series Living Legends following A Brand New Ballgame. Multiple characters appear in both books, but it can be read as a standalone novel.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2018
47 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 8, 2018
I'm a little torn on the rating for this one. It is truly a 3.5 star book for me, but I struggle with whether I round up or down since there aren't half stars.
I loved the character of Mo in Chase and Aaron's book (A Brand New Ballgame), and I loved him here as well. He was so sweet and down to earth. This book is happening at the same time as the events of A Brand New Ballgame, so it was cool to see it from a different perspective, even if it was brief. Mo was a supportive friend, a great teammate, and a wonderful boyfriend. Jack is the son of one of Mo's biggest rivals. He was working on writing a book about his dad and interviewed Mo. There was a spark between them, and they connect again shortly thereafter and start a relationship. They had a great romance together, and I enjoyed reading their story.
Where I got lost a little was in the pacing of the story. I felt like a lot of it was told to me rather than me going along for the ride with the guys. It seemed like a lot of the relationship took place off page, so when big moments occurred or they finally got together, I felt like I was missing some of the link to make me connect to it. I also didn't think their big ultimate happiness moment at the end made a lot of sense
The story was enjoyable, and I loved Mo, but I wish there was a bit more connection in the story for me as a reader. One thing I loved, though, was Jack's dad and his banter with Mo. That was awesome.
I am voluntarily reviewng and ARC provided by the author
I loved the character of Mo in Chase and Aaron's book (A Brand New Ballgame), and I loved him here as well. He was so sweet and down to earth. This book is happening at the same time as the events of A Brand New Ballgame, so it was cool to see it from a different perspective, even if it was brief. Mo was a supportive friend, a great teammate, and a wonderful boyfriend. Jack is the son of one of Mo's biggest rivals. He was working on writing a book about his dad and interviewed Mo. There was a spark between them, and they connect again shortly thereafter and start a relationship. They had a great romance together, and I enjoyed reading their story.
Where I got lost a little was in the pacing of the story. I felt like a lot of it was told to me rather than me going along for the ride with the guys. It seemed like a lot of the relationship took place off page, so when big moments occurred or they finally got together, I felt like I was missing some of the link to make me connect to it. I also didn't think their big ultimate happiness moment at the end made a lot of sense
The story was enjoyable, and I loved Mo, but I wish there was a bit more connection in the story for me as a reader. One thing I loved, though, was Jack's dad and his banter with Mo. That was awesome.
I am voluntarily reviewng and ARC provided by the author
July 28, 2018
Second book in the Living Legends series and it's a good read. I don't think I liked j quite as much as the first but it's still a good book by itself.
We have a May/December romance happening between Mo, who is in the closet as a famous baseball player and Jack, the son of his pitching days nemesis. There's always been an unacknowledged attraction but with Jack's dad now retired and away from the game and Jack grown into his own man, Mo isn't as against a relationship with him. Though Jack's aversion to attention could be a problem with Mo's public life.
I didn't connect as easily with this couple as I did with Chase and Aaron but I still felt the emotion and attraction between the two. We get to see how the two men have grown a little around each other and the sport of baseball. It's Mo's life and Jack was just along for the ride when his father's was a star.
We get interaction with characters from book one which I enjoy as it links the two together and we get to see an overall progression of the story line. This book does actually start around the same time as book one but with us following two different men we see different perspectives.
I like the world Declan has created and the characters within it. It's not fully necessary to have read boo one but I do think it will help with plot points and character appearances.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
We have a May/December romance happening between Mo, who is in the closet as a famous baseball player and Jack, the son of his pitching days nemesis. There's always been an unacknowledged attraction but with Jack's dad now retired and away from the game and Jack grown into his own man, Mo isn't as against a relationship with him. Though Jack's aversion to attention could be a problem with Mo's public life.
I didn't connect as easily with this couple as I did with Chase and Aaron but I still felt the emotion and attraction between the two. We get to see how the two men have grown a little around each other and the sport of baseball. It's Mo's life and Jack was just along for the ride when his father's was a star.
We get interaction with characters from book one which I enjoy as it links the two together and we get to see an overall progression of the story line. This book does actually start around the same time as book one but with us following two different men we see different perspectives.
I like the world Declan has created and the characters within it. It's not fully necessary to have read boo one but I do think it will help with plot points and character appearances.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
August 29, 2018
i read this book as part of an arc program. In this second book of the Living Legends series, Mo is a relief pitcher and is nearing the end of his career. Jack is the son of JW, another relief pitcher and Mo's rival. When JW retired, Mo reached out and tried to end their rivalry. Jack met Mo when Jack was a teenager and always thought the older man was attractive. Mo knows Jack is gay and thinks he is attractive and would like to date him. When Jack asks to interview Mo for a book he is writing about his father, Mo invites him to his house. When Mo sees Jack again a few days later, he asks him out. They begin seeing each other but keep their relationship a secret. Jack is unsure how his family would react to him dating Mo and Mo is still in the closet. Jack also does not want to be in the public eye and knows if Mo comes out and tells everyone he is in a relationship, Jack will be thrust in the spotlight. They have to work through their issues and see if they can save their relationship. I loved this book. I think Mo and Jack were great together. I thought Mo was so romantic and Jack wasn't expecting this. I think they really loved each other and wanted to be together. I loved their connection and the way they cared about each other. I thought Mo's friends were great and supportive. Another great one from Declan.
July 25, 2018
3.5 stars
This second Living Legends story felt a little more laid back on the romance. Not that there isn't romance between Jack and Mo. It just wasn't one of those that jumps out at you with the immediate chemistry. It took a little while before I felt like this pair should be together. Nevertheless, I absolutely loved both of these guys, especially Mo. Jack is great too, but there's just something about Mo that made me want to know more about him. I did warm up to the attraction between them as they spent more and more time together, and began to want to see them get their happy ever after. Our angst come by way of a couple of misunderstandings, some insecurity, and some conniving on the business end of the sport. Plus, there's Jack's father's feelings about Mo to contend with. That said, the angst isn't over done and the these guys are just so sweet you can't help but like them, and we even get to catch up with Chase from the first book to see how his romance with Aaron is going. All in all, an entertaining read with some absolutely lovable characters.
This second Living Legends story felt a little more laid back on the romance. Not that there isn't romance between Jack and Mo. It just wasn't one of those that jumps out at you with the immediate chemistry. It took a little while before I felt like this pair should be together. Nevertheless, I absolutely loved both of these guys, especially Mo. Jack is great too, but there's just something about Mo that made me want to know more about him. I did warm up to the attraction between them as they spent more and more time together, and began to want to see them get their happy ever after. Our angst come by way of a couple of misunderstandings, some insecurity, and some conniving on the business end of the sport. Plus, there's Jack's father's feelings about Mo to contend with. That said, the angst isn't over done and the these guys are just so sweet you can't help but like them, and we even get to catch up with Chase from the first book to see how his romance with Aaron is going. All in all, an entertaining read with some absolutely lovable characters.
July 28, 2018
Mo is a pro baseball relief pitcher. In what maybe his last year of playing he has been traded to a new team. Not really happy, he is glad to be near the beach again though. His retreat there is his safe place. When he is approached by the son of his biggest rival for an interview he gladly says yes.
Jack lived with his fathers pitching career until he retired. When Jack asks Mo for an interview he doesn't realize how much his life is going to change. Their time together begins as friends. Both men are attracted to each other. The age difference, the fact that Mo isn't out, and Jack’s dislike of the spotlight makes the relationship difficult.
They start to fall in love. Because of various factors, Mo wants to come out. Jack doesn't want him to because of his fears. When Mo does it anyway, Jack leaves. Putting their relationship in jeopardy.
This was a sweet, slow burn story. I liked reading more about Chase and Aaron from the first book. Well done story, although at times Mo was a little stilted.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Jack lived with his fathers pitching career until he retired. When Jack asks Mo for an interview he doesn't realize how much his life is going to change. Their time together begins as friends. Both men are attracted to each other. The age difference, the fact that Mo isn't out, and Jack’s dislike of the spotlight makes the relationship difficult.
They start to fall in love. Because of various factors, Mo wants to come out. Jack doesn't want him to because of his fears. When Mo does it anyway, Jack leaves. Putting their relationship in jeopardy.
This was a sweet, slow burn story. I liked reading more about Chase and Aaron from the first book. Well done story, although at times Mo was a little stilted.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
July 29, 2018
How about that cover!!! M/M older man/younger man romance
It’s interesting that this story seems to run concurrently with the first book in this series, A BRAND NEW BALLGAME, but through the eyes of Mo and Jack. Mr. Rhodes has taken a seemingly typical enough topic, Older/Younger and added the spice of a long-running rivalry between, not Mo and Jack, but between Mo and Jack’s father! Different. Mo and Jack’s father were both relief pitchers of some renown but each had very different versions of some games. Hmmm. I’d also like to know more about Edward’s story.
The book was good, but b/c it appeared to be tracking the same underlying plot as book #1, not quite as engaging as I had read the first book. There are only a few sensual scenes between Mo and Jack. I liked the part of the story where we are given a glimpse into the baseball “star’s” lives and how their families have to live…avoiding making headlines for something other than their game. Overall a good book. I was offered an ARC to review but I had already preordered this one.
It’s interesting that this story seems to run concurrently with the first book in this series, A BRAND NEW BALLGAME, but through the eyes of Mo and Jack. Mr. Rhodes has taken a seemingly typical enough topic, Older/Younger and added the spice of a long-running rivalry between, not Mo and Jack, but between Mo and Jack’s father! Different. Mo and Jack’s father were both relief pitchers of some renown but each had very different versions of some games. Hmmm. I’d also like to know more about Edward’s story.
The book was good, but b/c it appeared to be tracking the same underlying plot as book #1, not quite as engaging as I had read the first book. There are only a few sensual scenes between Mo and Jack. I liked the part of the story where we are given a glimpse into the baseball “star’s” lives and how their families have to live…avoiding making headlines for something other than their game. Overall a good book. I was offered an ARC to review but I had already preordered this one.
August 8, 2018
This is a relatively low-angst, sweet May/Dec story (although I might consider it more like May/Oct-ish, but that's just me). I love Mo, a lot actually. He is sweet and loving and supportive of his friends, and of Jack. Jack.. I liked Jack, and I understood he was scared, but I was a little miffed by something he does that made me lose a little of the respect I had for the character. It is entirely a personal opinion, though, and I still enjoyed the story for the most part. The ending was amusing, too.. that rivalry between Mo and Jack's dad is entertaining. As cute as the story was, at times it felt like we were getting their story in pieces rather than a whole, with some scenes seeming to end a bit abruptly. It felt a little like the story was being told rather than me experiencing it as a reader in those times, so for that, I give the story 3.5 stars (an extra .5 stars because really do love Mo!). I might go back and read the first book in the series now though, as I am really interested in Chase and Aaron's story.
August 15, 2018
Right On the Money
This is a really well done, if somewhat overly angsty, take on the premise of this series--an older baseball player and a younger player or pup crossing paths, swords, and getting down and dirty in the end.
The relationship between Jack and Mo is fraught with lots of perils, including the fact that Jack's father and Mo were deeply contentious and antagonistic rivals on the baseball diamond. Then again, Jack is openly gay but not pushy and Mo is still closeted.
That premise and the book's blurb should set you up for a relatively rocky ride that is (IMHO) tainted somewhat by the fact that Mo is a much more sympathetic character than Jack. I found the weakness here to be Jack's childish reactions to crises, especially when played against how Mo handled them.
Still, I liked it as much as the first in the series (and oh!, what a cover!) and I am anxiously awaiting the next one.
This is a really well done, if somewhat overly angsty, take on the premise of this series--an older baseball player and a younger player or pup crossing paths, swords, and getting down and dirty in the end.
The relationship between Jack and Mo is fraught with lots of perils, including the fact that Jack's father and Mo were deeply contentious and antagonistic rivals on the baseball diamond. Then again, Jack is openly gay but not pushy and Mo is still closeted.
That premise and the book's blurb should set you up for a relatively rocky ride that is (IMHO) tainted somewhat by the fact that Mo is a much more sympathetic character than Jack. I found the weakness here to be Jack's childish reactions to crises, especially when played against how Mo handled them.
Still, I liked it as much as the first in the series (and oh!, what a cover!) and I am anxiously awaiting the next one.
August 15, 2018
This is a romantic, entertaining, steamy and sweet story. Mo is charming, bold, protective and fun. Jack is smart, caring, private and skittish. Mo finds himself drawn to the son of his rival, he won't hold JW's actions against him, but he'll glady hold JW's son against him. The closer Mo and Jack get, and the more dramatic life around them gets, the more Mo wants to come out of the closet, but Jack is not ready for that, he had had enough of reporters when he was a child. The storyline is touching and intriguing, and very sweet.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
July 27, 2018
The Money Pitch
Mo Sadler connects with his arch rival J.W Madison son Jack whilst Jack is writing a book about his dad's career. When they start up a relationship they keep it a secret as Jack hates being in the limelight and Mo is very much closeted. When Mo decided to comes out at a press conference things take a drastic turn! Mo is determined to get his man back. Also what will Jack's dad J.W think?
I was looking forward to Mo's book and Declan Rhodes didn't disappoint. It was great to hear more of Chase & Aaron and I'm excited for Eric's book.
Mo Sadler connects with his arch rival J.W Madison son Jack whilst Jack is writing a book about his dad's career. When they start up a relationship they keep it a secret as Jack hates being in the limelight and Mo is very much closeted. When Mo decided to comes out at a press conference things take a drastic turn! Mo is determined to get his man back. Also what will Jack's dad J.W think?
I was looking forward to Mo's book and Declan Rhodes didn't disappoint. It was great to hear more of Chase & Aaron and I'm excited for Eric's book.
July 31, 2018
I just loved The Money Pitch. Gotta admit, I had to google Relief Pitcher, still not sure why there are relief pitchers and regular pitchers, but that only made me want to understand Mo even more. I like that it’s not a second chance, but that they knew each other even a little bit of animosity too. Jack and Mo were so cute together and I loved the pace of the story. I also liked that it overlapped with A Brand New Ballgame and Aaron & Chase’s story. I was totally charmed by them. I am totally enjoying this series and look forward to the next story. I would totally recommend this book.
August 3, 2018
This book was good. It wasn't as drama filled as book one and it took me a few chapters to figure out that we backtracked a bit from book one.
I love the romance story that this book has. Mo was a great guy in book 1 and to get to know him better and see him get his HEA. It was a surprise as to who his love interest Jack is because I don't remember much of him from book 1(if he was even mentioned which i don't recall at all).
I can't wait to see more more of Mo/Jack and Chase/Aaron when Javier and Eric get their stories.
I love the romance story that this book has. Mo was a great guy in book 1 and to get to know him better and see him get his HEA. It was a surprise as to who his love interest Jack is because I don't remember much of him from book 1(if he was even mentioned which i don't recall at all).
I can't wait to see more more of Mo/Jack and Chase/Aaron when Javier and Eric get their stories.
August 7, 2018
I received a copy of this from LesCourt Author Services. This is my honest opinion and review.
I enjoyed reading this story. It took me a moment to realize that this takes place at the same time as book 1 in the series. We get more information about the infamous ball game and the repercussions that came from the decisions that the wrongdoers made.
I liked the relationship between Mo and Jack. I enjoyed the age difference and how Jack had to get over his preconceptions of Mo.
I'm interested in the next book in the series and can't wait for it.
I enjoyed reading this story. It took me a moment to realize that this takes place at the same time as book 1 in the series. We get more information about the infamous ball game and the repercussions that came from the decisions that the wrongdoers made.
I liked the relationship between Mo and Jack. I enjoyed the age difference and how Jack had to get over his preconceptions of Mo.
I'm interested in the next book in the series and can't wait for it.
July 26, 2018
I’ve been excitedly waiting for Mo and Jack’s story and it did NOT disappoint. The added taboo of dating you arch nemesis’s son was icing on the cake for me.
The storyline was captivating and the characters were just as good if not better that book 1.
Now the wait begins for book 3. I know Eric will also get the love story he deserves.
The storyline was captivating and the characters were just as good if not better that book 1.
Now the wait begins for book 3. I know Eric will also get the love story he deserves.
July 27, 2018
The second in this series The Money Pitch is great. Another big hit for Declan Rbodes. A fun story wrapped in a yummy romance and more baseba!l excitement. It leaves me waiting to see where the nd t adventure games us Fun Romantic, just as lifelike and real as the first. Well written with interesting characters and lots of action.
July 29, 2018
When Mo Sadler pitcher for the Yellowjackets falls in love, it is with the son of his rival J W Madison, Jack who is 13 years his junior but they are both in the closet and concerned about what will happen if or when they come out, especially as J W is not likely to take the news well. There is also something grumblings about the team.
Another excellent story from Declan
Another excellent story from Declan
August 5, 2018
Mo and Jack make a great couple, except they have a few hurdles to overcome. Their age difference, Mo isn't out, Jack hates the press, and Jack's father hates Mo. It all seems like things they can surpass, except Jack runs from any problems. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
July 28, 2018
Book two in the Living Legneds series. Mo is a pictcher for the Yellowjackets and Jack is the son of one of Mo's old rivals. They are sweet together and their romance is a slow burn.
August 3, 2018
I loved reading Mo's story. I was so curious about his character after Book 1. This book had a whole lot of sweet mixed with a little sexy. Great storytelling!
August 23, 2018
Competition!
The Money Pitch: Fantastic love story and the love of baseball. Love the characters and how they all got along and have a good time. Fantastic writing!
The Money Pitch: Fantastic love story and the love of baseball. Love the characters and how they all got along and have a good time. Fantastic writing!
September 30, 2018
Good
Jack and Mo , even though 13 years separated them, fell in love . Baseball can be hard on so!e people and for some it will mean the world.
Jack and Mo , even though 13 years separated them, fell in love . Baseball can be hard on so!e people and for some it will mean the world.
September 26, 2018
Book two in the Living Legends series. Mo is a pitcher for the Yellowjackets and Jack is the son of one of Mo's old rivals.
Mo and Jack are going to make a great couple, except they have a few hurdles to overcome just like the rest of us.
#1 being their age difference
#2 is Mo isn't out
#3 Jack hates the press
#4 Jack's father hates Mo.
It all seems like things they can get passed, except for one thing Jack runs from any problems that come up. So how are these two going to work out all these issues?
.
Mo and Jack are going to make a great couple, except they have a few hurdles to overcome just like the rest of us.
#1 being their age difference
#2 is Mo isn't out
#3 Jack hates the press
#4 Jack's father hates Mo.
It all seems like things they can get passed, except for one thing Jack runs from any problems that come up. So how are these two going to work out all these issues?
.
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