This book is a lot more than I anticipated! A sweet fake dating forced by their bosses with fade to black intimacy.

I try not to judge by the cover, but I fully went in excited to start a new baseball sports romance as I find the world of baseball to be on the rarer side of this trope. Immediately, I was drawn in by Maggie and wondered what happened to her to cause her to be incredibly sensitive to light flashes. I also love me a reformed playboy and Tommy delivered in showing us how seriously he is taking his last chance at playing professionally.

The author pulled a fast one on me because there was a good thirty seconds where I was worried the two characters would overlap with Maggie's tragic past. I genuinely went, "Oh no," and then realized it would've been impossible. However, the story of what Maggie went through years prior broke my heart and I appreciated the journey she went on to heal and close that chapter. When she went to *that place* I nearly teared up.

I'm tremendously excited for whoever's story is next... will it be Jamil? Olivia?

This book was incredibly sweet and definitely a fun, heartwarming read.

Maggie & Tommy are in a fake relationship with the intent to clean up his image. But the two develop real feelings.

I liked that Maggie was a solid charactor, she was supportive without being overbearing. The healing between Tommy & his Dad was great. I love that Maggie was able to help with that.

Tommy was such a loveable male character. He was painted to be the embodiment of a bad boy with his tattoos, gold chain, history of booze & girls; but was such a softie, Like a teddy bear. I really felt for him - but through Mags eyes.

I felt we didn't get enough of Tommy's POV throughout the story. I have to admit that there were moments that I was wholly disappointed seeing Maggie's name at the top of the Chapter.

Cute debut novel by Ally Wiegand. I’m always a sucker for a fake dating sports romance and this checked the boxes for that trope. Tommy and Maggie have both been through so much in their lives and when their ball team suggests they “date” to improve his image, they never expect what will happen. They bring out the best in each other and help each other heal in ways they didn’t realize they needed. It’s a quick read with an HEA, a bit cheesy but a good palate cleanser book to get you over a book hangover.

Very fun cute fake dating sport romance, small book and quick to read, it goes fairly fast and it was super enjoyable, fun and easy read .

I was so excited to read this because I don’t think I have ever read a baseball romance.

The standout of this book is Tommy Mikals. Tommy is a playboy with a bad reputation and Chicago is pretty much his last hope. But he has reformed his ways and y’all he’s such a sweet little golden retriever boy and I just loved him. It was evident he thought Maggie hung the moon and he was so sweet and thoughtful but he also challenged Maggie and that was exactly what she needed.

I fully expected this book to be a sweet little low key romcom but there was so much more too it and some really tough things our MCs were dealing with. Maggie is carrying a lot of guilt and grief that she needed to come to terms with and process and Tommy was such a steady presence throughout that. And Tommy was faced with lots of self-doubt and Maggie was such a champion of Tommy the person, not Tommy the athlete, and that was so sweet to see. While this did feel a bit insta-lovey to me personally (which isn’t my favorite) I felt like we got a lot of great depth in their relationship so that when declarations were made, you knew it was founded on something solid.

I really enjoyed this one and I cannot wait for the next book in this series (already trying to plot out who I think it will be about).

5 stars, 5 stars, 5 freaking stars. I laughed, cried, was stressed, and elated all in one book. This is not going to be very articulate at 2am in the morning but here is my best shot. The gist of this baseball romance begins with our hero signing with the Cougar’s organization giving Tommy his last shot to play perfessional baseball because of his horrible reputation. But the Cougars have a photographer on staff which is our main heroine Maggie who is pretty much in the wrong place at the wrong time which gets her finagled into a fake dating situation with our hero. Was this book perfect no. Was there things I wish that were more flushed out, sure. But honestly, I am here for a story to take me out of my element and show me something new while giving me all the feels. Even though the author used a well known trope I really enjoyed how this one was done. There was so many things I loved about this book and I am here for more. Well Done Wiegand!

Thank you to NetGalley and Ally Wiegand for my advance readers copy, and for requesting my honest opinion.

I really liked the premise of the book, and how he’s a pro baseball player and she’s a team photographer!

I love me a baseball romance, but sadly this didn’t hit the mark for me. I feel like the chemistry wasn’t there between the characters. I felt like things were very insta-lovey.

First Base" by Ally Wiegand hits a home run with its blend of heartfelt emotions, sizzling chemistry, and unexpected plot twists. Set against the backdrop of America's favorite pastime, baseball, Wiegand weaves a story that transcends the boundaries of sports and dives deep into the complexities of love and redemption.

At the heart of the narrative is Maggie Redford, a talented baseball photographer who prefers to keep her focus on the game rather than her tumultuous love life. However, when the team signs the charismatic Tommy Mikals, a player with a notorious reputation, Maggie finds herself thrust into a whirlwind of drama and passion.

What sets "First Base" apart is its authentic portrayal of characters grappling with past traumas and striving for personal growth. Maggie's resilience and Tommy's journey towards redemption resonate deeply, drawing readers into their emotional journey. Wiegand's prose is engaging and evocative, effortlessly capturing the intensity of their feelings and the allure of forbidden love.

Overall, "First Base" earns a solid four stars for its compelling storyline, well-developed characters, and steamy romance. Ally Wiegand proves herself as a rising star in the romance genre, delivering a captivating tale that will leave readers eagerly anticipating her next pitch.

Oof. I really wanted to like this one. Cute cover, nice concept (team photographer x player, plus afraid of love x reformed player)... But boy this let me down.

First of all, the writing is just...terrible. I don't often go so far as to write that, but there were too many points in this book where I had absolutely no clue what was going on. Here's an example: "But what was even scarier was that the piece of me that had felt called to Luke the first time he had looked at me like I was the most important thing in the world felt like it was stirring, knocking the dust off itself the moment that Tommy had caught my eye there with Jamil and Adam."

I'm sorry, what??? Every time you think that sentence is going to end, it just keeps on going. And the whole book is written like this!

Second of all, the characters... they somehow manage to be both troubled/traumatized and also flat and also cliche. Wiegand tried to keep us interested with that "what's her traumatic backstory" mystery, but not only did I figure it out pretty quickly, but the way this manuevre was executed lacked all subtlety.

And Tommy? Terrible book boyfriend. Constantly compares her to the models he used to date ("...had dated some of the most conventionally beautiful women in the world during my time in San Diego. But something about Maggie seemed to drive me wild." Hey man, stop comparing women like this! Also are you trying to imply that she's not beautiful??), and often focuses on how she's "mysterious" and a "puzzle" ("...She had been constantly on my mind as I tried to decipher her..." ummmm she's not a sudoku Tommy!! Stop trying to decipher her and just, like, make conversation).

All this to say, I couldn't get through more than 30% of this book. Not a fan.

This book was great.
So we have this "bad boy" aka "player" of a baseball player named Tommy Mikals, and a sports photographer Maggie.
Their meet-up was def interesting and something they and you will never forget.... gotta read the book to see what that's all about.
This is a perfect example of 'don't judge a book by its cover'
Now both main characters have issues with love and relationships and they def need to work on it but each of their issues and reasons for these issues are so very different.
Now would they have set up a date if not for the PR stunt and the innocent photo that got out of them..... hmmm we may never know
But this is a good story, well written, you really get attached to these characters (even the background ones are great and play and great role in this story).
Maggie's friend who is also another photographer was sooo funny, loved her.

I read this book in 2 sittings. I got through half of it then took a break for the other half on the next day.
My only complaint is that the last character was short and how it ended I felt like I needed/wanted more about them but its all good. Just shows that it was a good book right ?!?!?!?

I am so glad to have the opportunity to read this book, thanks to the publisher and NetGalley. The above is my own, honest and voluntary review.

First Base by Ally Wiegand

I had so much fun reading this book! It's a refreshing blend of fake dating and baseball romance, with a captivating dynamic between a player and a photographer—a unique setup that drew me in from the start. It definitely deserves more recognition in its genre!

The story is a quick yet a satisfying romance read that grabs you right away! It touches on emotional themes that tug at your heartstrings. Even though the plot is somewhat predictable, it still feels meaningful and ends on a satisfying note.

One thing I wished for was more length. The characters, especially the adorable couple, Tommy and Maggie, could have had more scenes to deepen their connection. But I understand the appeal of shorter romances, and for those who enjoy them, this fits it perfectly. Despite its brevity, there are plenty of cute moments to make up for it, and the resolution of any misunderstandings happens quickly, which is a relief.

Tommy Mikals, the main male character, is incredibly thoughtful and supportive of Maggie. His genuine affection and care for her make him an ideal romantic lead, and his role as a hot athlete only adds to his appeal. Maggie, the female lead, has a vibrant energy and a unique perspective as a photographer, and it's satisfying to see her grow throughout the story. The friendship between Maggie and Olivia is a highlight, though I wish we could have seen more of it.

The chemistry between Tommy and Maggie feels authentic, thanks to the dual point-of-view narrative that lets us into their thoughts and feelings. It avoids the usual clichés of fake dating stories, making their relationship feel genuine and relatable. Supporting characters like Adam and Jamil add depth to the story, though I wish we could have seen more of their interactions with the main characters.

Overall, this book is a charming and heartwarming read that will delight fans of fake dating and sports romance. It's a promising debut for the author, and I'm excited to see what else she has in store. I hope we'll get to see spin-offs featuring characters like Jamil and Olivia, as they have the potential to add even more depth to this fun universe.

A big thank you to the author and NetGalley for the eARC!

3.5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️

This was my first Ally Wiegand book and I thoroughly enjoyed it so much! I’ve been looking for a baseball romance and this is just what I needed to help me out of my reason slump. Will definitely be read more of Ally Wiegand in the future!!

She's an easy breezy rom com, and was a fun little excursion from the usual reads. First Base is your classic she saves him/he saves her type deal with a little *misunderstanding* twist plopped into the plot. Predictable, but like all hallmark rom coms- highly enjoyable!

What I Enjoyed
Didn’t Get Lost in the Sports: Sometimes you read a book, and it uses so many words/phrases and terms specific to the sport that you’re lost in the sauce. First Base didn’t do that. I felt comfortable in the amount of “baseball” and felt like I could still follow along with what was happening. I mean, I think I even learned a little bit!

Tommy’s Character: Legit the cutest that he was so determined to make things right, and be different, and be better. The followthrough was consistent and his character stayed on point. Also, very cute dialogue.

The sprinkling of 90’s-2000’s references: This might end up being dated after a while, but the references to the different 90’s + 2000’s happenings and pop culture was fun. Always an enjoyable experience.

Family Healing: There’s also this element of reconnecting to your family, reassessing and finding your place within while also holding fast and true to yourself (possibly with the help of others). I loved the development of Tommy & his dad’s relationship; cheesy, cute, heartwarming. You name it.

What I Didn’t Like
The Timing Felt a Little Off: At first, I felt like we were FLYING through this relationship. Things were moving at warp speed, then all of the sudden it felt like it was slowing down again- then *zoom* warp speed again. I kinda lost track of the timeline half way through and just kind of shrugged it off.

Over All Thoughts
Overall, just really truly a cute cheesy rom com. A fun and flirty read that has a little but of deeper elements, family healing, and self healing as well. Definitely recommend if you like a hallmark style rom com! Tommy and Maggie’s love story has opened my eyes to reading more of these quick & fun sports reads in the future.

If you're looking for a short, cozy sports romance book then this is it! This was my first baseball sports romance and what a lovely read! I really enjoyed Maggie and Tommy's story and when I tell you this book had me in tears, I wanted to reach through the book and give Maggie a hug. If you're a reader like me who enjoys fake dating, forced proximity, "he falls first", and you want a great start to your spring time reads then I definitely recommend this book. Maggie and Tommy's story is a real home run!

To say I loved this book is a complete understatement.

Sweet and innocent Maggie and bad boy baseball superstar Tommy are somewhat forced into a fake dating for PR situation. They navigate this fake dating with Maggie trying to protect her heart and Tommy trying to work his way into it.

My favorite part about this book is that they both have a past trauma that they each help each other through. Most books will mention the trauma but not really face it; with this book Ally did an amazing job from start to finish showing how bad the trauma was to the heartbreaking relief when both realized it was time to move forward with their life and grow from the past. Books don’t normally make me cry but there was multiple times I had to wipe my eyes.

Again saying I love this book is a serious understatement.

I have never read a sports romance before, so this was my first one. I will happily say I will read more! This is perfect for readers who need a happy ending to their books. I do think this story was predictable however, I am very interested in what the rest of the Chicago Heartbreakers will be. Overall, the style of writing was right up my ally and I would recommend this book to others.

I absolutely loved this book! Super quick pacing and to the point which I love. Ally did a great job giving the background of each of the main characters without over-doing it with unnecessary information.
After losing the love of her life Maggie is content with the thought that she’s had her one great love and she’s meant to life the rest of her life working her dream job as a photographer for Chicago’s MLB team. Until she meets Tommy, a reformed playboy on his last strike (get it hehe) with the MLB - Chicago is his last chance to prove he’s more than just a party animal.

-Fake dating
- insta love
-he falls first
-forbidden workplace romance

Maggie is a professional photographer working for her favorite baseball team: the Chicago Cougars. She has sworn off love after the tragic death of her soulmate and late fiancé until she meets the eye of the team’s newest (and hottest) star, Tommy Mikals. She isn’t sure if she’s ready for a new relationship but after a misleading photo hits the media, she doesn’t have much of a choice.

Calling all rom-com lovers: this one’s for you. This fake-dating romance was adorable and I was rooting for them throughout. Definitely a fun and quick read!

Some of the plot felt a little unbelievable and corny, which is why I had to drop my rating but overall I enjoyed the read!

This book was so adorable and for once touched on issue more than just guy meets girl, fake relationship etc. So so cute and I loved the support both offered each other. Perfect if you like fake dating and sports romances!

Baseball photographer Maggie Redford is happy to watch life from the stands. Playboy Tommy Mikals needs a reputation overhaul. He has been newly traded to the team, and is looking at this season as a chance at redemption. Vowing to give up his party-boy ways, he can't afford to be distracted by the gorgeous team photographer. When a wild team outing leads to Maggie getting caught on the wrong side of the camera with Tommy, the photo goes viral—making Maggie look like just another of Tommy’s hook-ups. With his reputation and her job at risk, the PR team devises a fake a romance to convince the world that the two are an established couple. But as their pretend relationship plays out in the spotlight, real feelings come into play. I am a sucker for a fake dating trope that is done well. The book was fade-to-black, which my only negative, but will be a huge selling point to other readers. The third act miscommunication was weak, but it did not last long, thankfully. This made a fun and easy palate cleanser, and it was nice to see a sports romance that included baseball.