I absolutely LOVE this series! Book 1, The Changeup, is a really excellent read, but there is something magical about The Curveball by Emily Childs. It’s totally because of Griffin. He is the BEST kind of hero. There is a moment where Wren describes Griffin as her sunshine, and that is the most fitting description for him. Griffin is sunshine and he totally makes this story. He is the kind of guy you want to be your best friend. He’s fiercely loyal, down to earth, and always so joy-filled. He constantly sees the good in people and in the world. But he is not a pushover. He has great radar for when one of his people is in harms way and he will do whatever it takes to keep him/her safe and happy. He also feels deeply, which means he can get his feelings way hurt. What I like so much about Griffin is he takes the “sports-guy” stereotype and turns it on its head. Yeah, he’s a super hot baseball player. He could get any girl he wants. But he isn’t that guy. He’s the kind of guy who lets his guard down and gets vulnerable around the right people, and he helps others to tear down their emotional walls so they can figure out how to get to the meat of what’s really holding them back. He is the BEST kind of hero and he is absolutely perfect for Wren. Poor Wren — I really did feel for her when she tells Griffin her secret, when she explains why she has such a strong wall built around her broken heart. But she is no shrinking violet. Wren is tough and courageous and capable. I 1000% related to her issues with her father and the issues that come with step-families. I get how hurtful it is to have a parent who isn’t interested in you, but rather in controlling you. I cheered Wren on as she learns to stand up for herself and set boundaries. Overall, more than any plot point or conflict, it’s Wren’s and Griffin’s characters that make this book so special. These are two excellent characters I wish I could meet in real life. They would be so cool to know.There is so much more I could say about The Curveball. This review doesn’t seem to do it justice. I feel like I have to reign myself in though or I might spoil something. In all honesty, if you are a fan of superbly written Contemporary Romance that is wholesome, not fluffy at all, and includes some seriously good chemistry then definitely purchase a copy of The Curveball today. You will not be disappointed you did!I purchased a copy of this novel in eBook form from Amazon.com on July 27, 2022, in order to review. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.