Right Up His Alley
Who said bowling isn’t sexy?
Ezra Jiménez has spent years secretly working toward opening a tattoo shop. He never wanted the responsibility (or sacrifice) necessary to run a shabby bowling alley. That was his father’s dream. But when his dad dies and leaves Spare Time to his son—along with an opportunity to host the USBC National Championship—Ezra has no other choice.
Truett Thorne is tired of travel, the expectations, and the pressure his father places on him to be the best professional bowler in the nation. Coming home is supposed to be a chance to finally settle down and rediscover his love for the sport. So he rolls back into Spare Time… and runs straight into Ezra.
Though USBC policies forbid them from being together, a reluctant partnership turns into something neither of them can ignore. As they race to rebuild the alley before the USBC makes its decision, the lines between obligation and desire blur.
If the truth of their relationship comes out, it could cost them everything they’ve worked for.
And maybe each other, too.
Right Up His Alley is a steamy, open-door gay sports romance with grumpy/sunshine, forbidden relationship, and small town meets big fame vibes—perfect for fans of Rachel Reid and M.A. Wardell.
“Are we going to be those people who won’t be able to keep our hands off each other?”
— Right Up His Alley
Right Up His Alley Rundown
What is the genre?
LGBTQ+ Contemporary Sports Romance with a central subplot focusing on complicated family dynamics and a forbidden romance that may just cause more trouble than it should.
What are some of the overall themes and tropes?
Finding love, chasing dreams, improving self-image. Tropes include: grumpy/sunshine, forbidden romance, small town meets big family vibes.
How long did it take to write?
I co-wrote this novel with Anastasia Dean (pen name of Tati B. Alvarez). We started writing in November 2024. It has honestly been one of the greatest writing experiences I’ve ever had. Tati is a dream to work with and she definitely was able to hold me accountable and motivate me through this process. Co-writing has really helped me stay focused on my passion for publishing, but also helped me navigate a healthy balance which includes working as a therapist, being a husband, and raising my daughter!
What is the status of the book…or series?
As soon as we announced RUHA (along with the cover), our socials blew up! We couldn’t be more excited for readers to finally be a part of our bowling universe when Right Up His Alley drops on September 25, 2026.
Which…speaking of universe…
We’re working on Book 2 now 😉 We’ll reveal all details soon. Stay tuned!
What inspired you to write this story?
I love, love, love a good sports romance! But I’m kind of burnt out on reading about sports I don’t necessarily have any experience in playing. I wanted to write a story that was inclusive, smart, and connect sports romance readers in ways they haven’t had the chance to yet. The question of “Why Bowling?” always comes up for me when speaking to readers about RUHA. My answers are either “Who doesn’t love bowling?” or “Who has never went bowling? I know I have.” It’s all about connection with me and I hope my readers feel that too!
Do you have a favorite character?
Yes! Hands down: Rachel Thorne. She’s sassy, empowered, and severely intelligent. I can’t wait for you to meet Truett’s mom.
