The Open Era: The sizzling new sports romance for fans of Heated Rivalry and Challengers

Edward Schmit

Jun 2026 · Penguin · Narrated by Shawn K. Jain

3 reviews

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9 hr 38 min

Unabridged

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About this audiobook

A sizzling adult sports romance, for fans of Heated Rivalry, 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 in front 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 neither player wants to acknowledge 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 of love?

© Edward Schmit 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026

A sizzling adult sports romance, for fans of Heated Rivalry, 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 fir...

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3 reviews

About the author

Edward Schmit is an author based in New York City. From theatre kid to graphic designer to creative director, he’s always exploring new ways to tell stories. A passionate mental health advocate, he’s worked in the nonprofit space for over seven years. The Open Era is his debut novel and combines three things close to his heart: queer love stories, mental health awareness, and the most beautiful sport in the world—tennis. Find him on Instagram @edwardschmit and at edwardschmit.com.

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