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It was over as quickly as it started…or at least I thought it was.

But as it turns out, I can’t stay away. Life keeps throwing us together, and it seems like she’s everywhere all at once.

She’s in the same house as me, in the bedroom next to mine as I dream about what she’s doing in there.

She’s interning at the baseball stadium when I’m there to focus on the game, and her boss has assigned her to shadow me as we work on a project together.

She’s out at the same bar with her friends when I’m out with mine. And don’t even get me started on the guy sitting next to her…

I can’t keep fighting against this thing between us, but the fastballs keep flying at me, and I don’t think we have a choice.

FASTBALL is the second book in the VEGAS HEAT: THE EXPANSION TEAM series. This series must be read in order.

184 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 2, 2023

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About the author

Lisa Suzanne

101 books2,753 followers
Lisa Suzanne is an Amazon Top Ten Bestselling author of swoon-worthy superstar heroes, emotional roller coasters, and all the angst. She resides in Arizona with her husband and two kids. When she's not chasing her kids, she can be found working on her latest romance book or watching reruns of Friends.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
Profile Image for B. C. Booklover.
734 reviews48 followers
February 26, 2023
Having just finished Curveball, book 1 and holding onto my sanity for dear life, book 2, Fastball, has my emotions flipping all over the place and begging for mercy once again. Holy cannoli, this story is wrecking my heart and tearing it into tiny little pieces. The #### has definitely hit the fan now. Time stands still as Cooper and Gabby's world suddenly comes crashing down like a 500 pound house of cards. I could feel every bit of their shock and pain as those unspoken parts of their past are now being puzzled together. Their plans come screeching to an abrupt halt and the inevitable questions need to be asked. Is their love is worth fighting for? Can the happy ending they were already dreaming of still be a reality, or are the obstacles and consequences too much to overcome?

What's next for this couple in book 3, Flyball? All I know for sure is that I just LOVE everything about Cooper Noah. He's got that strong, stoic image locked down on the outside but on the inside- his vulnerability and sensitivity make him all the more attractive, even when his gooey marshmallow heart is breaking. He's made promises to many people, but how can he keep them all?? Oh my, he's not the only one who is dying inside. Gabby may be young and inexperienced with relationships but she knows what she's feeling is the real deal. Cooper Noah has had her heart locked down from the very beginning.

Well, Lisa Suzanne- I can see there could be trouble brewing ahead, so let's see what you're going to throw at my new favorite couple now. I know how you love to stir the angst pot and make your readers and especially your characters sweat it out until the end!! Bring it on- I'm ready for the other shoes to drop- there must be more than one of them.

As tempting as it might be to dive right in, eager readers- wait!! This game is just getting started! All five books in the Vegas Heat: The Expansion Team sports romance series, must be read in order. You won't want to miss a single minute of Cooper and Gabby's tumultous, intense rollercoaster of a love story. It's mixed up, super twisty and addictively enticing. 
Profile Image for Judy Portelles.
324 reviews50 followers
June 1, 2024
This picks up at the end of Curveball which left us on a cliffhanger. I can feel all the emotions and tension both Cooper and Gabby go thru in this book. OMG these cliffhangers are making me crazy and I can’t wait to listen to the next book. Stephanie Rosie and Aiden Snow did amazing, highly recommend these audios.
March 7, 2023
Fastball (Vegas Heat: The Expansion Team #2) by Lisa Suzanne is part two of a five-part contemporary sports romance serial and ends with a cliffhanger. Told in first person dual POV, this installment includes age-gap, forced proximity, workplace, and forbidden love tropes. It follows the relationship between pro baseball player Cooper Noah and marketing major and intern Gabby Grant.

The story picks up where the previous book ended with Gabby and Cooper in shock and discomfort as the realization hit that Gabby’s father (Troy Bodine) is not only Cooper’s new boss but also his good friend, so they can’t possibly be together now. Troy would never approve. And if that wasn’t bad enough, they’re all going to be living in the same house together while Cooper waits for his place to be ready for move in. Cooper and Gabby can’t even avoid each other at work, because Gabby’s new marketing internship is at the baseball stadium. How will they ever manage to stay away from each other? Things couldn’t possibly get any worse, could they?

I loved this second installment of Gabby and Cooper’s story! Where the previous book was low on angst and high on steam, this one was the opposite. The happy fantasy of Cooper and Gabby’s whirlwind romance has been shattered, as reality has set in along with the decision that they can’t be together. This leads to tons of tortured angsty pining, frustrated longing, and delicious tension as they attempt to avoid each other. I think that’s why I liked this part even better than the last. Cooper and Gabby are miserable without each other and miserable around each other, and I am here for it! This makes my angst-loving heart so happy. LOL! I can’t wait to read the next installment.

*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
Profile Image for Thalia | NightlyReadandTea.
223 reviews21 followers
February 28, 2023
Book two, Fastball, gives readers a VERY different view of the characters we came to love in book one. I actually didn’t enjoy reading Gabby or Coop in this book (but of course I still love them and their story) because they were both so different than expected. I know they were hurting with the bomb that was dropped from the first book, but I felt that they were both so immature.

Coop was dying to be with Gabby and vice versa, so I really felt for them with all the back and forth. ALL I WANT IS FOR THEM TO BE TOGETHER AND HAPPY!

Lisa provided more information about Cooper and Gabby's careers than just their relationship because now they were required to work closely together at Vegas Heat, which put them in close proximity and stokes that flame between the two of them. Since they always seemed to be where the other was without even realizing it, additional (kind of magical) moments were created and added to their whirlwind connection!! AHHH I NEED book three!!
Profile Image for Canadian Girl Reads.
940 reviews27 followers
March 3, 2023
"𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔, 𝑮𝒂𝒃𝒃𝒚. 𝑩𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒆. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐."

Fastball by Lisa Suzanne | Vegas Heat: The Expansion Team Book 2
5 Maple Leafs | 2 Flames

Cooper and Gabby are shocked to find out the secrets each other has been keeping and it ends up putting a wedge between them but their connection to each other is making it hard to stay apart.

WOW! Picking up where we left off in the previous book, things have gotten hot and sticky in Vegas (and not in a good way, lol). Cooper and Gabby have some serious tension and angst but are keeping even more secrets from each other.

I am absolutely devouring this series, can not wait for the next book and may actually like the Heat better than the Aces (the verdict is still out).

Get ready for... sports (baseball), forbidden, age gap, mf
POV... dual first-person
*Series must be read in order*

*A copy was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Book Blog*

Follow → ❤️ Facebook 🖤 Instagram ❤️ TikTok 🖤 Twitter ❤️ Blog
Profile Image for Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer).
803 reviews58 followers
February 27, 2023
From the cliffhanger that Lisa Suzanne left us hanging on in Curveball, it was no surprise that Fastball was going to have us going on quite an adventure in following the continuation of Cooper and Gabby’s story.

Fastball delivered when it came to bringing forth the major drama, some mystery, growing suspense and a lot of angsty-ness with many emotions pouring out.
But mostly it delivered when it came to showcasing the relationship or in Cooper and Gabby’s case lack of, which a majority of the story revolved around, given the revelations that came to light ended up changing the dynamic of their relationship big time.
It’s ultimately what led to following along a narrative filled with constant back and forth and ups and down. Mostly a courtesy of Cooper, he just couldn’t stop running hot and cold when it came to Gabby, due to his feelings of wanting her but knowing he can’t and shouldn’t.
Seriously he gave a major case of whiplash from his push and pull, which at times either led to heated moments that had sparks flying.
Or angsty moments that caused tension from the hurtful emotions delivered that pulled on your heart strings from the pain.

Beside their relationship, Lisa did give more insight into Cooper and Gabby when it came to their career seeing as they both were forced into close proximity with having to work closely together at Vegas Heat.
As well as their personal life outside of each other, which brought forth some of the secondary characters given the events and situations that called upon them. Resulting in times of Cooper and Gabby being pulled back to each other from the invisible string that had them tethered to one another.
Since somehow they both always seemed to be where the other was at without knowing it, creating and adding more moments to their whirlwind relationship.

Fastball was another good read in continuing to follow Cooper and Gabby's journey, with yet another cliffhanger.
Although no surprise there, however this time Lisa made it more juicy in my opinion, considering the details we're left hanging on.
It definitely has me more intrigued and excited to see what will happen for Cooper and Gabby in the next book Flyball from Lisa Suzanne's Vegas Heat: Expansion Team series.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Daniella Flandez.
105 reviews
February 24, 2023
Book 2 starts off right where book 1 ends. It is full of tension, teasing, angst, and he wants but he can’t have her. There is little spice but LOTS of heated moments to lead you into book 3 (which will hopefully have more spice?). We get a little more back story with Gabby as well. There’s a lot of assumptions being made that look like game playing (well, there’s a little game playing 🤷🏻‍♀️).

I am so frustrated with Cooper! He’s “taking one for the team”, thinking it’s what’s best for everyone, and instead they’re both suffering. I don’t feel like he is communicating very well with Gabby, and she’s letting him make these assumptions with her new relationships/friendships, which results in him getting mad and jealous. I’m curious how it’s gonna play out in book 3. I don’t think Coop is gonna be able to resist her!!!
Profile Image for Kacie Mummawh0reads.x.
373 reviews15 followers
June 1, 2024
Fastball
by Lisa Suzanne
⭐️4
🌶️3
💧0

This is book 2 of Vegas Heat- the Expansion Team series and as the book are a continuation of each other, MUST be read in order!

Umm excuse me? But wtah!? The first book finished on a wicked cliffhanger that left me needing to know what happens next, and sadly so did this one!!! You can’t end the book like that!!! I’m invested dammit!!! 🤣🤣

#fastball #lisasuzanne #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
Profile Image for kreadsoften.
716 reviews53 followers
June 6, 2024
Fastball is the second book in the Vegas Heat: Expansion Team and cannot be read as a standalone.

After the cliffhanger of the first book, I was so excited to see what happened next.

There was angst, drama, some possessiveness and jealousy. Ugh, Gabby made her hopes clear, and Cooper made sure to let her know it was never going to happen.

But…he can’t always hide or fight his feelings. And he was so sweet and caring, and loyal (to his friendships).

Anyway, as always, Lisa has left off with a cliffhanger that makes me need the next book now!

Audio:
Narrators: Stephanie Rose and Aiden Snow
Style: Dual

These have reprised their roles as Gabby and Cooper, respectively. And they did an amazing job bringing the story, the drama, the feelings, and the characters to life.
Profile Image for Laura .
835 reviews23 followers
February 23, 2023
Oh this book is breaking my heart a bit! I wasn't sure what to expect in the second book, especially given that cliffhanger, but it was a lot. The sadness and anger is obvious. I need the next three books immediately so I can see how this happily ever after finally happens.

Random thoughts while reading:
-My spidey-senses are also going a bit about two characters and I'm not trusting them at all.
-The games that are being played are not my favorite either. I mean I get it. I do. At the same time it's just a tad bit childish.
-One thing is for certain though, the hate to love in this book is STRONG!
-I knew this person would appear. I KNEW IT!
-That last little conversation followed by a cliffhanger? LISA SUZANNE YOU'RE TORTURING ME! (in the best way possible of course.)
Profile Image for Reading_Junkie28.
1,147 reviews22 followers
February 28, 2023
This book has gutted me! Cooper is definitely not my favorite person right now. I totally get his concerns but putting his own happiness on the back burner…SMH I absolutely LOVE his mom. He needs to have more calls with his mama. My heart is so broken for Gabby. I just wanted to hug this poor girl. Finally escaping her narcissistic mother all she wants is to feel loved and that she is good enough to fight for. She has so much love to give and all she wants is to give it to Cooper. I have no idea where this is headed but I have literally been left hanging on the edge of my seat.
Profile Image for Doris.
2,851 reviews113 followers
February 28, 2023
I Need More !!!

Fastball picks up right where Curveball left off with Cooper and Gabby realizing the connection they had that neither knew of. This book was much more angst ridden with the fact after finding out that the connection they shared would throw their relationship into a tailspin. Both are fighting with the fact that things have changed in their relationship and neither are at all happy at the moment.

I can’t wait to see where Ms. Suzanne takes us especially with a pregnant ex wife showing up in the mean time and Gabby struggling to come to terms with her relationship issues.
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
1,440 reviews73 followers
March 2, 2023
4.5 stars

Secrets

Goodness, where to start? We pick up at the end of Curveball with the meeting of Cooper, Gabby, and her dad. But Cooper and Gabby have already met. With the angst turned up to high, the lows and the highs of this story. AND another ex I instantly am not fond of! A great read, and counting the days until book three.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Neermboop.
215 reviews32 followers
May 1, 2023
Still apart for the entirety of the book, but some tension filed encounters.

They do have to work very closely together, while living a wall apart from each other.
Profile Image for Zoe.
471 reviews5 followers
February 27, 2023
Fastball
Vegas Heat:The Expansion Team #2
Lisa Suzanne
“Gabby is Troy’s daughter?”
Fastball starts where the Curveball cliffy left off and it is the train wreck I thought was building.
“It’s too messy, too complicated. Too ugly.
But the love I feel for her is the opposite of all that. It’s beautiful and simple and easy.
It’s the greatest thing I have done n my life, maybe the greatest thing I’ve ever had my life, and I’m making the decision to let it go.”
Coop faces too many risks but is sooooo drawn to Gabby. Living under the same roof is going to be crazy torture. Honour verses love.
Book 2 the tormented one with the angst, is not a stand-alone novel, it is 2nd in a 5 book connected series. I can’t wait for #3 Flyball.
I received an arc of this book.
4 stars
Profile Image for Leah Dynes.
962 reviews11 followers
March 3, 2023
Man, these are two frustrating individuals! Cooper is set on doing what he thinks is best for everyone, hurting both of them, and Gabby’s age is showing with the way she’s dealing with everything. But close proximity and the chemistry between these two means it’s basically impossible for them to stay away from each other. Let’s see what happens next!
Profile Image for Nath✨.
186 reviews8 followers
March 15, 2023
Gracias Wordsmith Publicity y Lisa Suzanne por el ARC.

Lo disfrute bastante y le tenia muchas expectativas , no las cumplieron del todo porque estamos en ese punto de la historia de Copper y Gaby donde ¨tienen un conflicto¨. Durante el libro podemos ver un poco más de las carreras de ambos y como tienen que trabajar juntos.
Aqui entra el forced proximity trope , lo cual es genial porque disfruto mucho de ese trope.

No tengo mucho que decir de esta segunda parte porque el libro es mega corto y solo quiero que ya esten juntos.

* Hay referencias a Taylor Swift

"When we want it to slow down, it doesn’t. When we want it to speed up, it doesn’t. It’s one of life’s most frustrating constants"
Profile Image for Cigi cini.
239 reviews16 followers
May 29, 2024
🎙️ ADUIO REVIEW 🎙️

💋 Age Gap
⚾ Dad’s Best Friend
💋 Forced Proximity
⚾ Pro Baseball
💋 Secret Relationship
⚾ Sports Romance

Star: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: NONE

Narrator: Aiden Snow & Stephanie Rose

"Fastball" by Lisa Suzanne is a captivating and emotional sports romance that skillfully intertwines the unpredictable nature of love with the high-pressure world of professional baseball. Book 2 picks up where we left off in book 1 – Curveball.

The story centers on Cooper, a professional baseball player whose life becomes increasingly complicated when he continually crosses paths with a woman he can't seem to forget. Their initial connection might have been brief, but it left a lasting impact, filled with longing, tension, and unexpected encounters.

Gabby, an intern at the baseball stadium, finds herself constantly thrown into the orbit of Cooper, both professionally and socially. Her proximity to him—living in the same house, working on a project together, and frequenting the same social spots—creates an inescapable tension that both characters struggle to navigate. The author's portrayal of their internal conflicts and mutual attraction is both relatable and engaging.

Lisa Suzanne excels in depicting the challenges of balancing professional responsibilities with personal desires. Coopers internal struggle to maintain focus on the game while grappling with his growing feelings is portrayed with authenticity and depth. This adds a layer of realism to the story, as readers witness the character's journey from denial to acceptance of his emotions.

The narrative is well-paced, with a good mix of romantic tension, character development, and glimpses into the world of professional sports. The baseball stadium, the bars, and the shared living spaces serve as vibrant backdrops that enhance the story's realism and immersion. Suzanne's descriptive writing makes these settings come alive, adding to the overall enjoyment of the novel.

One of the strengths of "Fastball" is the development of secondary characters, who add richness to the story without overshadowing the main romance. The interactions between Cooper and Gabby and their friends, colleagues, and family members provide additional context and depth, making their world feel fully realized and relatable.

The romantic arc is both satisfying and emotionally resonant. The constant "fastballs" life throws at the characters symbolize the unpredictability of love and the challenges of navigating a relationship amidst external pressures. Lisa Suzanne handles these themes with sensitivity and insight, making the characters' journey toward each other both compelling and heartwarming.

In conclusion, "Fastball" by Lisa Suzanne is a must-read for fans of sports romance. Its well-drawn characters, engaging plot, and authentic depiction of the complexities of love and life in the sports world make it a standout in the genre. The novel's blend of romance, tension, and personal growth ensures that readers will be hooked from the first page to the last. MUST READ BOOK 1 – Curveball.
Profile Image for Moni.
463 reviews
February 25, 2023
4. 5 out of 5 stars

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is the second book in the Vegas Heat Series so make sure you read Curveball first. Fastball begins where Curveball ended & I appreciate that we didn't have a time skip of flashback. Unlike Curveball, this book had less spice & more angst for Cooper & Gabby but I loved it!

After finding out that she's Troy's daughter, Cooper doesn't see how they can keep their relationship & breaks things off. Aside from being friends with Troy, Cooper's responsibility to lead the team as he was signed to do are the reasons for his decision. However, it's not as if it's easy for him - especially once he thinks about Gabby moving. Although he was jealous, he acknowledged that he doesn't have the right to stop Gabby from living her life without him. Whatever readers may feel about Cooper's decision I understood him & wasn't upset, it's undeniable that your heart will ache for him as he denies himself a chance at happiness with Gabby.

Gabby is too hurt to accept Cooper's practical reasons for breaking up. She thinks that Cooper is giving up easily & wonders if his feelings were as strong as she thought. That wondering & not so great advice from her friend lead her to try & get a rise out of Cooper. It was somewhat entertaining to see her make him jealous but, more than anything, you feel for Cooper & her who are hurt. It can be easy to feel a bit annoyed by Gabby's actions but they are realistic. & the way she handles the breakup does highlight the differences in their ages & what each of them has experienced. It makes me curious to see if/how this is a source of conflict in the next book.

As someone who loves angst, I was enjoying every second of their longing & frustrations at not being able to be together. Even though there are no spicy scenes like there were in Curveball, the tension between them is satisfying enough & will eagerly have you turning the pages to see if they decide to ignore the reasons why they shouldn't be together.

While I enjoyed reading about their longing for each other & frustration at not being able to be together, I also enjoyed seeing Cooper & Gabby respectively prepare for their futures Cooper preparing to be back in the game & Gabby starting her internship. I look forward to reading more about that. There were some characters introduced that I think will create problems & I wouldn't say I'm looking forward to them doing so but I'm curious to see if they will play a role & how big will it be. The cliffhanger wasn't as impactful for me as the one to end book 1 was, but it certainly still left me wanting to know what happens next for Cooper & Gabby.
Profile Image for Jenn  M..
568 reviews12 followers
February 23, 2023
Oh Cooper and Gabby- feelings and emotions are running high in the continuation of their story- and Lisa is toying with mine as she weaves the intricate web holding these two apart.

4.5 ⭐

Fastball is the second book in the Vegas Heat: Expansion Team series and just like the Vegas Aces, the books in this series must be read in order as each book is a continuation of the story. This book picks up right where Curveball left off with Gabby and Cooper making a shocking discovery that has all but stamped the expiration to their relationship.

This book both feels like a lot has happened but also like not much at the same time. After Cooper discovers Gabby's relationship to his friend and now kinda boss- he is quick to shut his relationship with her down, breaking both their hearts in the process. Now timeline wise this portion of their story takes place over the course of a week or so- so not much time but enough for the heartbreak to bleed into jealousy and bad decisions. Gabby's age (or lack of it) is apparent in the way that she lets these moments of immaturity rule her actions in this book and it's fueled even more as she and Cooper are thrust together while both working for the Vegas Heat.

My heart is bleeding a little for these two- they both clearly have strong feelings toward each other and saw a future. The shift in both their emotions and personalities is clear that they are both hurting leaving us with interactions that are more abrupt and irritated than the gooey sweetness these two shared before. The drama so far in this series has been a little more, I want to say tame than what I originally expected BUT I can see threads of upset heading this way with Cooper's past making a sudden reappearance and some questionable vibes from some of those in Gabby's circle.

It's clear that these two cannot ignore the pull between them or the connection their hearts had formed- but how the reality of their relationship is going to play out is still very much up in the air and I'm excited for the possibility (and sexiness 😉) of a secret relationship with the way these two can't seem to keep their hands or mouths off each other.
Profile Image for Nicola.
386 reviews
March 5, 2023
Fastball is the second book in Lisa Suzanne's Vegas Heat: The Expansion Team and is the second part of Cooper and Gabby's addictive story.
Fastball picks up right where Curveball ended with the shocking revelation that changes everything. Cooper's new boss, the guy who believes in him and trusts him implicitly to bring the Vegas Heat to fruition is Gabby's Dad!
Even though they are feeling all the things for each other they know that Gabby being Troy Bodine's daughter changes everything. Everything they were building has now been taken away. Gabby doesn't understand why things have to end, so her Dad is Cooper's new boss that doesn't have to change anything, she realises things will become complicated but what they have is surely worth fighting for.
But Cooper knows Troy will never accept them together and even though he knows losing Gabby will destroy him, he also knows they need to end things before they get in any deeper.
"It's too messy, too complicated. Too ugly.
But the love I feel for her is the opposite of all that. It's beautiful and simple and easy.
It's the greatest thing I have in my life, maybe the greatest thing I've ever had in my life, and I'm making the decision to let it go."
Despite knowing all the reasons they should keep their distance, living together and working together keeps throwing them back into each others orbit and chemistry like theirs doesn't just disappear because you need it to.
Can Gabby and Cooper find a way to work through all the obstacles standing in their way?
Read Fastball now to find out!
I really enjoyed Fastball, I could not put it down and read it in one sitting! I cannot wait for the next books in this incredible series which is quickly becoming one of my favourites.
I received an arc of Fastball and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
Profile Image for Kathy VanHouten.
48 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2023
Well Fast ball picks up where Curveball ended.  What are the odds that Gabby's father Troy is the best friend of Cooper? Cooper and Gabby are shocked about this coincidence. Cooper is in love with Gabby but he doesn't see how they can keep their relationship going knowing he can't be messing with his best friend's family especially since Troy asks Cooper to watch out for Gabby. Cooper thinks he is doing the right thing by ending his and Gabby's budding relationship. Cooper's reasons for breaking up are logical but Gabby is so heartbroken and  hurt and she doesn't want to  accept the breakup and thinks they should tell her father about them. Then there is  the team Cooper's  helping Troy build.  Cooper thinks  he has need to take one for the team because Troy is expecting him to lead the team and he wants to let Gabby live her life.   Cooper being older by twelve years should be the mature one and talk and explain to Troy about him and Gabby.  They both have a spark so strong he has a hard time staying away from Gabby. It doesn't help that Cooper is living at  Troy's  with Gabby in the next room until his house is finished in a month.  Gabby gets an internship at Vegas Heat, makes friends with the other interns and becomes close to  one guy and  Cooper doesn't like him and nicknames him Spongebob. Cooper is heartbroken, so torn up inside wanting Gabby  but knowing he can't be with her yet seeing her with spongebob tends to bring out jealousy feelings.To top it off Gabby now has to shadow Cooper for his StrongfitKids organization he is incorporating  in the Heat's stadium. I can't wait for the next book to see if they can stay away from each other. I was given this ARC to give my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Bette.
2,715 reviews13 followers
June 2, 2024
Wonderfully Addictive & Emotional! Fantastic Narration🎧

Fastball
Vegas Heat: The Expansion Team, Book 2
By: Lisa Suzanne
Narrated by: Aiden Snow, Stephanie Rose

Cooper Noah and Gabby Grant’s story continues in this second installment of Lisa Suzanne’s “Vegas Heat: The Expansion Team” and after listening to and loving the first book, I was glad I did not have long to wait for it. The story continues to captivate my attention and I can not get enough of these characters. Cooper and Gabby’s discovery at the end of “Curveball” changed everything for them and in this book, we watch them fight their love for each other. Cooper is determined to do the right thing and not betray his friend Troy Bodine, but it has not been easy with him living in the same house and when Gabby gets an internship with the team, the same workplace, too. The chemistry between these two is smoking hot, and it was hard to watch them deny each other, but I am rooting for them, looking forward to see what happens next. There is never a dull moment in this wonderfully plotted story and the drama is non-stop and emotions run high. Lisa Suzanne, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.

🎧📚🎧 Aiden Snow and Stephanie Rose continue to deliver a fabulous performance, bringing the characters to life, humanizing them with their voices and their personality. Their character voices have been consistent and the quality of the audio is top-notch. They continue to set the perfect tone for the story, capture all the characters’ emotions and have you feeling them all. These versatile voice artists are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fantastic listen.
33 reviews
February 28, 2023
Keeping up with the baseball references, Fastball isn’t quite at a full count, however with a man on Second, a woman on Third and her father/Team Manager at the bat, we do have game going on!

Fastball is the 2nd in a five series sports related romances, featuring Cooper Noah, a retired Third Baseman who has been made an incredible offer to return to the game. His friend and now Team Manager has given him the gift of being a leader to the team in this new expansion league, and Cooper is conflicted. How does one stay true to his mentor when he is in love with his daughter? His first inclination is to break it off, but his love for Gabby makes this an impossible decision.

Written in POV style, Gabby is ‘out of her league” in so many ways. Although only 21 to Cooper’s 33, her family life prior to meeting her natural father has matured her. She pushes Cooper to stay with their relationship, but her lack of life experience inhibits her and affects her decisions. As an intern with the Team, she and Cooper are brought together as they create a children’s athletic play area at the stadium. Her involvement with a fellow intern, albeit friendly, draws jealousy from Cooper and his protective nature during Gabby’s poor decisions doesn’t allow closure.

This mid-series book is a bridge that brings us from the uninhibited joy of new love to the rockiness of real-life encroachment. We feel their pain, their joy, their hope. What they need is a Sacrifice Fly to get them home!

Keep reading, we have three more installments in this series while Cooper and Gabby search for their HEA. It’s time to be good fans, raise our arms and “do the wave” and show our support!


Profile Image for Michelle.
491 reviews8 followers
February 28, 2023
Oh, Fastball. I knew you would do this to me, and I let you.

Fastball picks up exactly where Curveball left off, and it's full of angst. Full of it. It's all over the place. It's like an angst bomb went off and all that's left are little angsty pieces everywhere.

Cooper is such a great character. He's vulnerable, but strong. But in this book, I wanted to smack him silly. It's an age gap romance, so he should be the mature, wise one in the relationship. Instead, his immaturity shines through and leads to a lot of heartbreak as he thinks he needs to "take one for the team" and doesn't want to get in the way of how Gabby lives her life.

But, there are some big secrets spilled that involve Gabby and Cooper's friend, Troy, that shake them both to the core. And then Gabby takes an internship where else but at Cooper's place of work? Ohhhh boy.

When Cooper steps back to let Gabby live her best life, she takes the poor advice of an immature friend and tries to get a rise out of him. I think that's something someone her age would do, but I also wanted to slap her silly.

Individually, I didn't really like Cooper or Gabby in this book because their immaturity was almost too much to bear. You both like each other, why make it more complicated than it has to be? But, I never stopped rooting for them as a couple because their feelings are so clear.

Based on some new character introductions in Fastball, I think we have full drama ahead in Flyball. But, I hope we get back to the steam and spice that made us fall in love with Gabby and Cooper!

Five stars, and can't wait for the next book in this series - as always, this one ended on a juicy cliffhanger!
Profile Image for Sheila.
466 reviews9 followers
February 28, 2023
Fastball
I am heartbroken for these two, Gabby and Cooper. Cooper is trying to do what is right, in his mind. Being apart yet living in close proximity and working together is creating a lot of jealousy and messing up both their minds. Gabby would like to just lay the cards out on the table and come clean with her Dad.
In this second installment we meet a lot of new characters. These new people are growing the story line as Cooper and Gabby meet and interact with them. There is Joanie, Troy’s girlfriend that works at the Vegas Heat Stadium and perhaps at Coax too! There are new interns at the Stadium and Gabby joins them. Justin, one of the interns, just might be a good distraction. Mia has a boyfriend, Dylan, that wants to be an intern but seems upset that Gabby got a job at the Heat because her Dad is the manager. Then Stacey, Cooper’s ex shows up wanting to rekindle a romance and announces she is pregnant. We learn a bit more about Gabby’s relationship with her mom and it is destructive.
As much as these two try to distance themselves from each other fate seems to be throwing them together. Everyone has secrets, some that seem innocent enough but they could harm others. Secrets have a way of unveiling and the least opportune time. Some of these secrets are explosive.
Will ownership of Coax and what happens there be revealed? Will Cooper and Gabby survive being apart yet still loving each other? Cooper’s birthday is coming up and he has a suite at Caesar’s, where he met Gabby. Justin has a bit of a bombshell too!
So many questions and secrets…I can’t wait for the next book. I read this book in one sitting it was that good.
Profile Image for Lady _Soulmate.
131 reviews2 followers
June 2, 2024
🌟🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧🌟

Thank goodness Fastball picks up right where the last book left off! Narrated by Stephanie Rose and Aiden Snow, this audiobook takes you on an emotional ride, delving into the low and sad parts of the story that are necessary for its development.

Though this book may lack spice, I adore everything about Cooper Noah. He presents a strong and stoic image on the outside, but his rawness and gentleness make him even more appealing. Even when his tender heart is breaking, he captivates the listeners. With promises made to multiple people, watching how he'll manage to keep them all is fascinating. And it appears he's not the only one grappling with inner struggles.

Despite her youth and lack of relationship experience, Gabby knows deep down that what she feels for Cooper Noah is genuine. He has held her heart captive from the very beginning.

Fastball immerses you in a rollercoaster of emotions, and you can't help but be invested in the characters' journeys. Lisa Suzanne has crafted a compelling story that keeps you on the edge. Although this book may be the low point, it sets the stage for what's to come.

The narration by Stephanie Rose and Aiden Snow is top-notch, bringing the characters to life with their performances. Their voices perfectly capture the essence of Cooper Noah and Gabby, making the audiobook a genuinely immersive experience.

While there may be no spice in this installment, the emotional depth and the captivating characters make Fastball an audiobook worth listening to. I highly recommend it for fans of romance and heartfelt storytelling. Thank you, Valentine PR, for the opportunity to review this title.
Profile Image for Amy.
1,121 reviews18 followers
February 23, 2023
“Now that she’s part of my life, I’m not sure how to exist without her.”

Fastball is angsty and emotional and starts to delve even deeper into Cooper and Gabby’s whirlwind relationship. They are left reeling by the revelation at the end of Curveball. The fire and passion still burns deeply between them, but their relationship now seems to be impossible. Is a HEA still in the cards for them or will secrets tear them apart forever?

“She’s the first person I ever really let see all my different sides even though it was terrifying to let her in.”

The longing, frustration and heartbreak in this story was catnip to my angst loving heart. Cooper is such a noble guy who is fighting his good intentions over the person who owns his heart. Neither Cooper or Gabby know how to handle the intense feelings they have for one another and they seem to cause each other more pain with misunderstandings and lies. The chemistry is still simmering beneath the surface for these two as they navigate their new reality and their push and pull relationship is explosive.

“When I think of Gabby, though, I don’t feel resigned. I feel fire. I feel heat. I feel need. I feel love, and every time I see her, those feelings only get stronger.”

I loved being pulled in deeper to the Vegas Heat World. As expected, Fastball is an exhilarating rollercoaster from start to finish. Just when you think the dust has settled, a curveball is lobbed that throws everything back into chaos. I’m eagerly anticipating what comes next.
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