It’s a baseball-inspired romance. Think about it… tight pants, tight bodies, tight buns! You can obviously tell where my mind went ;)

I’ve read pretty much everything I could get my hands on from this author. Not only can he write, but his online personality is charming, funny and approachable, which comes out loud and clear in his work. To date, my favorite book of his was The Matriarch, but now… my new favorite is Scored. This book was brilliant. It was hilarious, romantic, and although I don’t personally know any baseball players, I am friends with a few professional athletes (football and basketball players), so I found this story to be pseudo-realistic.

Ever since I read Bossed, I knew that Matt and Kelsey were going to get it on. I was so excited to find out how their story would play out. I’m beyond impressed. Matt knew that he wanted Kelsey. He was even willing to admit that she was his forever. Kelsey was a bit hesitant, but Matt’s persistence, charm, and naturally good personality slowly but surely won her over. However, their happily ever after hit a huge snag. Matt might not be around for long as he was a free agent, with an offer to leave his home team for millions upon millions of cold hard cash. It’s a tempting offer, because he could do so much with that money for the charities that are close to his heart. So where does Kelsey fit in to this decision?

Again, I loved this story. Absolutely, positively loved it. This was, in my opinion, Sloane’s best work by far. I can’t wait to see what he’s going to give us next. If you haven’t had the privilege of experiencing his writing, I can’t recommend this book enough. You most definitely won’t regret it!

Release Date: October 17, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Sports Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Heat: 4 out of 5
Type: Standalone - crossover of characters from Bossed

This one was just an ok read for me which is sad because I was really looking forward to Matt's story. It was light, easy, and definitely steamy. Maybe a little too steamy. The steam seemed to interfere with the story really developing. For me the story never had that moment where you knew these two were meant for each other and would make it. Matt and Kelsey are both great characters and I would have liked to have seen their story be a little more dramatic. This really isn't a bad story I was just hoping for a little more.

Scored follows a baseball star and a hot indie records store seller, they have met more than once through their best friends, and their chemistry is sizzling hot.

Kelsey and Matt showed up in Bossed, and I enjoyed them immensely as side characters. Somehow, I enjoyed them a little less as main characters in Scored. I think it was because both of them kept second-guessing themselves quite a bit, and while I can understand some of that, it also kind of got old.

Matt really liked Kelsey from the first time he met her, but he had no idea they had even more in common than what came to light when they were out with Ethan and Jenny. Scored showed these common interests nicely, but they were both resisting the attraction so hard!

This is the second book in the series, Bossed is the first. Although I preferred the first book I still thoroughly enjoyed this one. Sloane is definitely one of my fave authors and I’d highly recommend.

I really enjoyed this story. It was everything I hoped it would be. A cute opposites attract read with some serious chemistry. At first I was a little thrown off because there wasn’t much background on either MC but as there relationship progressed it didn’t bother me that much.

Classic case of opposites attract. I think I finished it a day. The ending was so cute but I didn’t feel it was that much of a climax. And I didn’t understand why they waited so long to get to that point. I felt that their communication could have a a bit better but ‘m almost positive it was a plot point so I understand why it wasn’t. This is my first Sloane Howell book but it won’t be my last.

Kelsey didn’t really stand out to me that much as far as MC’s go. She was a bit of a rebel and almost everything Matt wasn’t. I didn’t think she was really that different than most girls and therefore I didn’t really become too attached to her.

Now Matt, oh he was one smooth character. I really enjoyed his struggle with his baseball career and his relationship with Kelsey. He was able to balance it all pretty well. I also enjoyed their make out sessions! Wooo! There was some serious panty melting words going on in this book!

I have other titles by Sloane Howell on my TBR, but this is the first one I've read and even though Scored follows Bossed, this easily reads as a standalone.

Matt and Kelsey's relationship felt a little rushed to me - e.g. Matt's immediate certainty about Kelsey being "the one" after seemingly spending so little time together - and Kelsey's reluctance about the relationship seemed a bit forced. The drama/relationship crisis was a bit predictable and seemed to resolve itself pretty quickly. It was a quick and steamy read, and although it was a "sports" romance, I didn't feel like it was terribly heavy on the baseball (which isn't a criticism, just something to be aware of if you have a thing for sports romance and like reading about the actual sport).

All in all, a quick and steamy read and I'll likely go back and read Bossed so I can find out how Jenny and Ethan get together.

I LOVED Scored! A great read; Scored drew me in from the very beginning. I loved the baseball and music themes! The music lyrics at the beginning of each chapter were very cool too!

Scored tells the story of cocky; yet swoon-worthy MLB baseball player, Matt and feisty, music loving, Kelsey as they go from being “sort of” friends to lovers. Their hilarious banter, sarcasm and cockiness had me laughing out loud! And the chemistry between them? Sizzling HOT! I couldn’t help but root for them to find their HEA. I loved seeing Ethan and Jenny too! Seeing them was like catching up with old friends!

Sloane Howell never disappoints and always leaves his readers wanting more! I can’t wait to see what he brings us next.

This was a fun and steamy sports romance. We first met the lead characters in Bossed, but this could be read as a standalone without any problem. This is Matt and Kelsey's story on how opposites attract. Kelsey is hesitant about getting into a relationship, let alone, a relationship with a professional athlete. But Matt is determined to win her over with his sweet, but masculine personality. A great read!

Very good opposites attract, standalone romance! Wonderful sports romance in this series that can be read as a standalone. Although I didn't read the first book, I don't think it ruined my enjoyment of this one -- good chemistry between Kelsey and Matt. Very good supporting characters, lots of steam with just enough drama -- not too much angst in this one. Would definitely recommend.

Cheeseburgers

It is rare for a romantic read that makes me giggle and have all the other delicious "feels" at the same time but that's the beauty and charm of a romance written by the incomparable Sloane Howell. I particularly enjoy the slightly goofy, super witty, oh so sexy Dominant Alpha male protagonist that he writes in his romances. It is in his skill at writing this endearing character that you can feel the authenticity of emotions portrayed by this character and notice that there may be a bit of the author's own person used in the crafting further adding to the believability.
"Scored" was simply the telling of a "love" story. It was scorchingly hot and there was great skill in its unfolding. The plot line may not have been scintillating but it takes a certain genius at knowing which buttons to push with the ardent romance reader that keeps their interest and has them entertained throughout.
Matt Stallworth is that beautiful creature known to womanhood as a professional baseball player. Now just think about this male beauty for a minute or maybe longer 😊. He is tall well over 6' and then those powerful forearms...and hands and chiseled abs oh and the equipment!!! Along with his physical beauty is his love of music and goofy personality. He is also quick witted with flirty banter and not afraid "to go there" with his quips.
All of this blessed male feels an inner tug toward Kelsey Martin. She is a singular beauty with honey colored eyes and a body that pleases his eye. She is a rocker chick with a distinct style all her own. She knows her mind and guards her heart. She has wit and a terrific sense of humor. Most of all, athletes are just not her type. She has always fallen for the lead singer of some up and coming band with her heart in tatters after he has taken his leave.
Their story begins with all the angst, uncertainty and insecurity that a first real date involves. As a reader we are caught up in the tale from this point forward. In the back of our minds we know that this is our favorite type of book, the typical romance. We can guess at the ending yet, we are still taken in by both characters and their drama.
Oh and the sex..the hot chemistry, the holding back, the exquisite tension of will they? When will they? How will they?
Ohhh and how will it feel for her? For him? How does it feel for a man? What really is his inner dialogue? Swoon worthy answers to be had...
Get ready to be surprised at how this author handles these questions and in the answering you are swept away to another place as we always hope our romantic reads will do for us. They remind us when we ourselves were once at this place and even have us hold on to the hope that we will go there again. And for the uninitiated, will this place be where I may hope to go?
I really need to add that the author kicks up the action a notch surprising us with a little of that irresistible dirtiness, dirty talk, dirty boy and dirty, dirty girl.
Now granted the author is not diving deep into the mind, psyche and soul of a super complicated hero or heroine. The story is what it is. For me it is delicious like a cheeseburger is delicious. Tasty, meaty, All-American and eaten lustily sometimes quickly but in the end, it is oh so satisfying.
Forgive me my easy metaphor, but this is what you can expect from this book... a well-written, oh so sexy a little dirty romance to take you away. There is a real craft to this type of read and because this book is so well crafted I choose the 5 star rating. That and it is by the irrepressible Mr. Howell and even I can't take rating this book more seriously than eating a cheeseburger. Although from what I'm told some people take their handcrafted cheeseburgers very seriously.
By whatever measure, this is worth the tasting and digging in...I mean it's worth the one click. One thing for certain is you won't be left hungry 😁.

I’ve been looking forward to finally reading one of Sloane’s books for a long time. I received this book on netgalley, and I’m glad I did.
I love the style of writing. I love the characters. Sloane was able to keep my attention throughout the entire book. I really wish there was more of them! 😍 looks like i found a new author to binge read!

2.5 stars

Scored by Sloane Howell was an OK read.
After reading Bossed I was excited to read Scored, Matt and Kelsey's story.
Unfortunately I didn't connect with the characters and I found the storyline just OK.
It makes me sad writing this as I was truly looking forward to reading :(

So apparently guys DO know what women want. Or is it only Sloane Howell? Because let me say that he definitely knows how to put the heat in romance! You won't be able to read his books without blushing and wishing that you had a man just like his heroes in your life! Frankly, I think that the cover model looks too innocent to perfectly represent Matt Stallworth. Matt is a hero who knows what he wants and he isn't afraid to go after it.

Matt is one of the star players of the Texas Rangers. He has been playing with the Rangers for most of his life and is happy to be living in his hometown. However a major offer has been made, by none other, than the New York Yankees. Even though he doesn't want to leave his team or Texas, the amount that they are offering his big enough to change his life and even the lives of his grand grand children. However, there is an even bigger reason for him not wanting to leave and that his Kelsey Martin. Ever since meeting her, she has been constantly on his mind. And even though Kelsey won't give him the time of day, he is determined to change her mind. All he has to do now is convince her that he is more than just a star athlete.

Kelsey loves her life and working at the record store. Music is her life. She has always dated musicians and knows that she will someday end up with one. What she doesn't want is to be the plaything of a hotshot baseball player who seems to change girlfriends as often as he does underwear. But determined as she is to keep her distance from him, even she can't deny the attraction that she feels for him. Especially when she sees that there is more to him than meets the eye.

Even though this book is said to be a standalone, I would strongly recommend that Bossed be read before reading this book. Ethan and Jenny play a pivotal role in Matt and Kelsey's relationship and there are a number of references to events that occurred in the past and can be better understood by reading the first book. Yes, you can still enjoy this book without reading Bossed, but I feel that it completes the story.

I have to say that I am very impressed by Sloane Howell's writing, especially when considering that he is a guy. I don't want to sound sexist, but I absolutely love the idea of a male romance writer and the way he writes is absolutely mouthwatering!!! I can't wait to read more from him!

This was a cute, fun read.
Matt and Kelsey are characters that first appeared in Bossed, but come into their own here. Their relationship centers around the physical, but there are several touching emotional moments as well.
The author’s style seems to allude to the relationship building vs letting the reader see it, but it works for these characters.
My only complaint comes toward the end of the book. There is a conversation between Matt and Kelsey that alludes to her feelings about something, but the issue had never been addressed earlier in the book. It worked for the conclusion of the story, but seemed a little awkward at the time.
Overall, this was an entertaining read and a perfect escape story.

This is the first book by this author that I've read and I'll definitely be reading more. This book has witty banter between the characters and lots of chemistry. This book had me hooked from the first page till the last one. The characters were well developed and so enjoyable to read. The ending to this story is just perfect. I can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
Highly recommended
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book

I really enjoyed Bossed when I read it, and was intrigued by Kelsey and Matt. But Scored hit it out of the ball park. Matt was such a sweet, good guy. He made a ton of money doing what he did, and had to make a decision that could easily set him and future generations of his family up for life. His decision wasn't easy, and his feelings for Kelsey made it even harder to decide.

Kelsey thought she had Matt pegged when she met him, and I loved watching her realize there was so much more to him that just being a dumb jock. I loved the dates Matt took her on and the thought he put into everything for her. I loved their banter, and the way they both got along with their friends. Twilight was hilarious and Ethan and Jenny were great, solid friends anyone would be blessed to call their own.

I love the humor this author uses. The characters always feel so real, their quirkiness something that always gets me laughing. He also has a way of infusing real emotion into his words. This is my favorite of all Howell's books so far, it was fantastic!

3.5 Stars

I haven't read Bossed but I didn't feel lost by jumping in with Scored.

Matt is a professional baseball player. He's played in his hometown for his entire career and now that he's a free agent, he has some big decisions to make. Kelsey has had a ton of bad luck with men that has left her mostly distrustful. Matt is nothing like her regular type of guitar playing music enthusiasts but his persistence to give them a chance eventually breaks her down.

Matt's pursuit of Kelsey made his such an endearing character. I like Kelsey and their chemistry. There was just something about this book that didn't click with me. I liked it but I can't put my finger on why I didn't love it. The characters are cute and the book was a pretty quick read.

*This is my voluntary review of an advanced reader copy*

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
3.5 stars
M/F Romance

Kelsey and Matt are the typical “opposites attract” couple. It's a story that is written a lot and the twist in this book is that Kelsey and Matt love the same type of music.

Kelsey is a kind of quirky woman who I thought was more guarded than what we as readers, would have understood why. There were hints at something in her past, but nothing super concrete. I did find her reluctance to let Matt in a little tedious.

Matt is a pro-athlete and I did like his teasing personality. He was loyal to his friends, but he also was always wanting everyone to be happy around him. His relationship with his family is ideal and I love how he and his brother banter back and forth.

The dance that Matt and Kelsey do is the normal dance with the normal conflict. I enjoyed their relationship and they did tear up the sheets. I just wish that there had been some from Kelsey's perspective towards the end. The ending felt too rushed and despite the conflict, there wasn't really any dialogue about it – it simply was.


Lee’Anne – ☆☆☆
This one just really didn’t do it for me. I absolutely loved the previous book, Bossed, but this book doesn’t hold a candle to it. I don’t feel like you can read this as a standalone, the roles have already been established and I think not having read the previous book would make it difficult to get into.

Matthew is a baseball star who is highly sought after by both the New York Yankees and the Texas Rangers. Texas has always been home for Matt but the Yankees are offering an outrageous amount of money to get him to go there. The decision about which team to go to literally drags out through the entire book and is one of the reasons I’m giving a low-star rating. Matt meets Kelsey and the attraction is immediate, but it takes a bit of convincing to get Kelsey to agree to a date. Once they begin dating though, things steam up very quickly and the story really picks up. Though Matt is open about having been a bit wild in his younger years, when Kelsey finds out the details she freaks out and ends things, prompting a domino effect of crazy decisions. Plus, the entire story pretty much revolves around Matthew not telling Kelsey about having the choice between Texas and New York.

My favorite part of this story was the epilogue – it really tied the story up nicely and was such a cute way to end the story. I wasn’t a huge fan of Kelsey’s character, she’s very wishy-washy with what she wants in life and was quick to jump to conclusions on several occasions. I like Matthew’s character though, he’s tough and he and his agent/best friend’s interactions had me cracking up. All in all, this was an okay read, it just didn’t really pick up until almost 50% through the book.


Ruthie – ☆☆
2.5* of just not fulfilling the promise of Bossed

Having really enjoyed Bossed, I kept reading Scored to the end, because I wanted to get to the bit which made it all make sense. If I am honest, it did not happen for me. I am a huge sports fan, and was pleased that this did not follow an often tread path of injury, drama, etc., but the item on which the whole plot kind of stuck was just a non-issue as far as I could see, and just didn't work for me. It was fun that Matt was the one who was so sure that Kelsey was his future, and that he had to make her understand that. I enjoyed that they both had a rude, sarcastic sense of humour. I loved that they were both such good friends to Jenny and Ethan (the stars of Bossed) and how they separated work from friendship.

Having looked at the average review score, I realise I am in a minority, but I tell it how I read it, and for me, this just missed the bat.