The Setup Man by Kate Watson
BLURB:
She's fake dating the wrong guy. Enter Mr. Right.
Scottie I've spent my whole life cleaning up after Jake Rodgers-the bad boy of Major League Baseball. So when his latest PR disaster threatens to send him to the minors, agreeing to fake date him feels noble.
Temporary. Manageable. Then hot young pitcher Lucas Fischer shows up—with coffee I didn't ask for and a smile that doesn't quit-and suddenly none of it feels manageable anymore. Especially when I'm assigned to be his handler. Now I'm pretending to be in love with the guy l've never wanted while trying not to fall for the one I can't have. Lucas I've been bringing Scottie Quinn coffee for ten months. I've never once guessed her order wrong-no small feat, considering the woman orders coffee based on vibes. I've also never once told her that I know she's fake dating Jake Rodgers, that she deserves better, or that I'm in love with her. I'm a patient guy. I can wait. What I can't do is watch her disappear to make everyone else comfortable. But Jake and I are on the same team now, and our GM has one ironclad rule: no clubhouse drama. Easy enough. All I have to do is keep showing up until she stops pretending... without blowing up both our careers.
Yeah. Maybe I'm not that patient after all.
If you enjoy sports romance novels with a mix of humor, tension, and heartfelt moments, "The Setup Man" by Kate Watson is a refreshing read. The dynamic between Scottie, a dedicated PR professional, and Lucas, the caring yet patient pitcher, adds layers to the typical fake dating trope. One interesting aspect of the story is how coffee plays a symbolic role—not just as a daily habit, but as a way for Lucas to connect with Scottie. It’s a unique detail that brings a sense of warmth and realism to their evolving relationship, showing how small gestures can communicate care and attention. Another important element is the baseball backdrop, which drives much of the plot tension. The pressure of maintaining a positive public image while handling personal feelings creates a realistic and relatable challenge. Fans of sports-themed romances will appreciate the way Kate Watson merges the intensity of Major League Baseball with the personal stakes of the characters’ lives. Moreover, the story tackles the theme of self-worth and the courage it takes to stand up for oneself, especially when caught between keeping others comfortable and seeking genuine happiness. Scottie’s journey is uplifting, as she learns to recognize what she truly deserves beyond the fake relationships and social facades. For those who prefer clean romance without explicit content, this novel offers heartfelt emotional development and meaningful connections, making it a great choice for readers looking for wholesome yet compelling narratives. Overall, "The Setup Man" is a compelling blend of sports, romance, and personal growth that hooks readers with its relatable characters and sincere storytelling. It’s a book that stays with you, encouraging reflection on love, patience, and being true to yourself.