Wicked Maiden by Chrissie Harrison

It’s the start of a new season for professional women’s cricket team The Scorpions.

Acclaimed batter Ellie, 32, is returning to the game after a long injury, determined to regain her form and her place in the England squad. This is her last chance, and she won’t let anything stand in her way.

Cricket fan Adam, 34, an artist and photographer, has followed Ellie and the team through highs and lows. He’s drawn to her talent, athleticism and public persona - but is content to be a face in the crowd, cheering her on. He’d never date a famous person, anyway.

When events on and off the pitch bring Ellie and Adam together, friendship blossoms, and their careers initially soar. Yet, with romance in the air, Ellie loses focus, jeopardising her dream.

What’s more important to them both - love, or cricket?

A share of the book’s royalties is donated to organisations who champion the development of grassroots, girls’ and women’s cricket.

The story echoes the film “Notting Hill” – the challenge of love between a ‘star’ and a ‘normal person’. The book touches on the good and bad sides of fame, and shines a light on women’s cricket – the mental and physical challenges, pressure of relentless media attention, community outreach, fan engagement, and the finite nature of the career of professional athletes. Above this, it is, of course, a love story.

• Sports romance
• Friends to lovers
• Slow-burn
• Closed door
• Celebrity & regular guy
• Critical illness rep
• Neurodiversity rep
• Soulmate
• Cinnamon roll MMC
• Only one bed – with a difference
• No 3rd Act breakup
• She takes care of him
• Dual POV

WICKET MAIDEN is the first in a women’s cricket trilogy.