The Hotshot by: Piper Rayne

 The Hotshot (The Dugout #1)
Author: Piper Rayne
Published: February 2026
Publisher: Piper Rayne Inc
Format: Audio
Rating: 4.5/5
Summary:
Raising my cousin’s three kids wasn’t in my five-year plan.

Actually, it wasn’t in any plan.

One minute I’m a single labor and delivery nurse living a quiet life and the next, I’m navigating guardianship hearings, meltdowns, and homework I’m pretty sure requires a math degree.

Enter Hayes Carlisle.

My best friend’s older brother.

Chicago Colts newest catcher.

And the man I once kissed and immediately pretended I didn’t.

So, when the custody battle I’ve been dreading becomes a reality, I shouldn’t be surprised that Hayes swoops in with a wild idea—a fake relationship. According to him, pretending we’re together will polish his image and prove to the court I’m not taking on an instant family alone.

But pretending to be Hayes’ girlfriend is a terrible idea.

Because he remembers how to make me laugh.

Because he looks at me like our kiss wasn’t a one-time mistake.

Because the kids start asking him to read bedtime stories.

Because my heart starts wanting things my life doesn’t have room for.

I can manage the chaos. I can fight for these kids.

But pretending not to fall for Hayes Carlisle?

That might be the one thing I can’t do.

Review:

First, I have to say I'm still getting used to most audiobooks, but they've been a lifesaver these days. Plus now that I know what it's like to have a book boyfriend talking directly into my ear... let's just say things feel much hotter than before!

Right from the beginning, you're thrown into this wild life that is Leighton's with being the guardian over her cousins children. Not one, but three young kids who have just lost their parents and are being thrust upon their aunt to help provide for them. I will say it doesn't take long for everyone to fall in love with the kids, myself included!

Even when things seem to be going well, of course there has to be someone who steps in and wants to make things much more difficult for this new family, and I have to say the way that Hayes stepped in and helped Leighton when it was needed most was so perfect! Of course you can't help but feel the emotion and lingering feelings still hanging around between the two of them, even if Leighton wants to pretend they didn't kiss before this fake relationship is agreed upon.

And like any other mother, Hayes' knows deep down it's more than a fake relationship. I loved her little quips, and it was such a cute moment between mother and son.

When things finally took off, boy were they spicy! The chemistry between the two of them both between the sheets and on regular parental duties was intense! Not only that, but you add in the teammates of Hayes' and all bets are off. They love those kids just the same, and it was the perfect kind of found family you want to see!

The way that not only Leighton but Hayes cares for these children was top tier. It just goes to show you that sometimes 'stability and money' doesn't always give you everything like some other characters mentioned in the story, and that those of warmth, love, and knowing just how you like your food, or your sports team schedule means so much more. I mean of course when you add in a professional baseball player... it does have some perks! But they were so perfect, creating the best kind of family in the most unique circumstances. 

Overall, I loved this book! From start to end, I couldn't stop listening, and the cast was overall great! Duet narration as well as a full cast for other characters mentioned in the book was amazing! If you haven't checked this book out yet, what are you waiting for?!

That's all for my review, I hope you enjoyed it and check out this new series from Piper Rayne today!

So until the next time, keep reading!

Your Graduated Bookworm!! :)