The Open Era

Brought to you by Penguin.

A sizzling, new adult sports romance, for fans of Challengers, Carrie Soto is Back and Red, White and Royal Blue

Game. Set. Perfect Match?

Recently-turned-pro tennis player Austin Hardy has been out since high school, and it's never been a big deal. That is, until he becomes the first openly gay man to compete in a Grand Slam tournament. Suddenly, being gay is a huge deal.

If the newly found fame wasn't enough to send Austin spiralling, then tripping and falling at the feet of the very talented, very attractive, (probably) straight World #2, Diego Cruz, is the last straw.

Only, the awkward gaffe marks the start of a blossoming friendship off the court.But when Diego admits his attraction to Austin, the flirty banter and mixed signals start to throw Austin off his game. And, until now, neither has acknowledged their looming showdown at the fourth round of the US open.

Only one can win in the game of tennis, but who will win in the game for love?

© Edward Schmit 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026