Introduction
If you’re searching for a steamy, emotional slow-burn romance that blends heart, humor, and sizzling chemistry, Caught Up by Liz Tomforde is a must-read. Set in the vibrant streets of Chicago, this story delivers everything romance lovers crave—grumpy/sunshine dynamic, found family, and a connection that feels undeniably real.
Available now on Kindle Unlimited, Caught Up is perfect for fans of witty banter, emotional depth, and sports romance with heart.
👉 Get your copy on Amazon Kindle here.
Plot Summary
Professional baseball player Luca Weston has perfected the art of keeping his distance. Cynical and emotionally closed off, his focus is baseball—and nothing else. But when he crosses paths with catcher’s daughter Wren, everything changes.
Wren’s life is the polar opposite of Luca’s—full of warmth, hope, and open-heartedness. But when an unexpected situation forces them together, their worlds collide in ways neither of them saw coming.
As friendship turns to something deeper, both must decide if they’re willing to risk everything for a chance at real love.
Character Dynamics
Luca is the ultimate grumpy hero—emotionally guarded, sarcastic, and secretly yearning for connection. Watching his icy walls crack is one of the story’s greatest pleasures.
Wren is sunshine incarnate—kind, patient, and full of heart. Her ability to see past Luca’s defenses makes her a heroine readers will root for.
Their chemistry is off the charts, but it’s their emotional connection—slowly built through shared moments and vulnerability—that truly shines.
Writing Style and Themes
Liz Tomforde’s writing is smart, funny, and deeply emotional. She crafts dialogue that feels real, banter that sparks, and emotional moments that linger.
Key themes explored:
- Grumpy/sunshine romance dynamic
- Found family and breaking generational cycles
- Healing from emotional wounds and learning to trust
- The challenges of balancing personal dreams with love
The pacing allows the romance to build naturally, making every moment of connection feel earned.
Memorable Moments
Highlights include:
- Luca’s internal struggle as Wren chips away at his walls
- Playful banter that turns into genuine emotional intimacy
- Family moments that tug at the heartstrings
- A slow-burn payoff that’s worth every second of the wait
Tomforde masterfully balances heat, humor, and heart, keeping readers emotionally invested throughout.
Reader Reactions
Readers are raving about Caught Up—calling it one of the most addictive, satisfying slow-burn romances of the year. The character depth, emotional growth, and sizzling tension make it unforgettable.
Common reactions:
- “Wren and Luca OWN my heart. The chemistry is insane.”
- “I’m obsessed with their slow-burn journey. So real, so good.”
- “This is why I love romance—smart writing, great characters, and all the feels.”
Recommended For
Perfect for:
- Fans of grumpy/sunshine, slow-burn sports romance
- Readers who crave emotional, character-driven love stories
- Anyone drawn to themes of family, healing, and self-growth
- Kindle Unlimited subscribers needing their next emotional binge-read
If you loved The Fine Print by Lauren Asher or Icebreaker by Hannah Grace, Caught Up is a must-read.
Similar Reads You Might Enjoy
- The Fine Print by Lauren Asher
- Icebreaker by Hannah Grace
- Consider Me by Becka Mack
- Things We Hide from the Light by Lucy Score
Chicago Vibes & Sports Romance Setting
The Chicago backdrop adds charm and authenticity, blending city life with the highs and lows of professional sports. From ballparks to cozy apartments, every scene feels vivid and real.
The sports angle adds depth but never overshadows the romance—it enhances the stakes, grounding Luca’s emotional journey in his professional world.
Romance and Emotional Impact
Luca and Wren’s romance is slow, sweet, and deeply satisfying. Their journey from strangers to something much more is layered with emotional complexity, making their eventual union feel all the more rewarding.
The slow-burn build is full of tension, longing, and those perfect moments where you know everything is about to change.
Pacing and Story Structure
The pacing is flawless—never rushed, allowing every interaction to deepen the connection. The dual POVs offer rich insight into both Luca’s guarded heart and Wren’s hopeful resilience.
Every chapter adds emotional weight, keeping readers hooked until the final, swoon-worthy payoff.
Final Verdict
Caught Up is a masterfully written slow-burn romance that hits every emotional note. Liz Tomforde delivers heart, heat, and humor in a story that’s as addictive as it is unforgettable.
If you love romances that make you feel everything—joy, heartbreak, and that perfect kind of longing—Caught Up is the book for you.
👉 Download it now on Kindle Unlimited and fall for Luca and Wren.
