Falcon/NakedSword publishing imprint FalconINK has released "Hard Ball 2: Playing for Keeps," a sequel to its erotic sports-themed romance novella "Hard Ball." The new novella, written by Riley Parks, is available in multiple formats, including an audiobook narrated by Eddie Burke.
FalconINK Expands "Hard Ball" Universe
The sequel, "Hard Ball 2: Playing for Keeps," continues the story of Mateo Ruiz and Chase Whitaker. The synopsis describes Mateo Ruiz as having spent his life pursuing the majors, a goal that takes him away from Chase Whitaker. Their relationship, which began as an attraction between teammates, developed into a secret connection characterized by "stolen nights, true devotion, and an appetite for each other that distance only makes worse."
The narrative progresses when Chase receives his own call, leading him to a rival team. This places the two men as competitors on the diamond, while their private relationship continues. The story explores the challenges of maintaining their relationship as their careers advance and the spotlight intensifies, making it difficult to keep their connection hidden. Both characters are unwilling to risk their careers or give up the love they have found.
Ben Rush, Co-Chief of Falcon/NakedSword, stated that the company is proud of FalconINK's success and the connection fans have made with the "Hard Ball" universe. Rush indicated that Riley Parks delivered a sequel that readers would enjoy as Mateo and Chase’s romance unfolds.
"Hard Ball 2: Playing for Keeps" is available as a paperback, e-book, and audiobook. Distribution channels include Amazon, Apple Books, and Barnes & Noble. Further information is available on FalconINKBooks.com.
FalconINK's Publishing Initiative
FalconINK, an imprint of Falcon/NakedSword, launched on July 28, 2026, marking the company's expansion into publishing erotic male/male romance stories. The division publishes original novellas and stories inspired by Falcon/NakedSword films. FalconINK offers its stories in print, e-book, and audiobook formats.
The publishing division operates with three signature imprint lines: Falcon Books, NakedSword Books, and Raging Stallion Books. Falcon Books focuses on "sun-touched, all-American Falcon men." Raging Stallion Books features "rough-and-ready hairy studs." NakedSword Books includes various types of men.
The initial projects from FalconINK included "Hard Ball" by Riley Parks, released under the Falcon Books line, and "Wild Game: Open Season" by Parks and Ben Rush, under the NakedSword Books banner. "Hard Ball" was described as a contemporary sports romance in the "enemies-to-lovers" sub-genre, following minor league baseball player Mateo Ruiz and his rival Chase Whitaker. "Wild Game: Open Season" serves as a prequel to the film "Wild Game," focusing on Derek Kage and the impact of meeting construction worker Adrian on his married life.
Tim Valenti, President and CEO of Falcon/NakedSword, stated that the venture reflects a commitment to expanding beyond the company's traditional audience while maintaining its focus. Ben Rush, Co-Chief Content Officer and Chief Creative Marketing Officer, noted that building a publishing house requires time and focus, from writing to sales, distribution, and marketing. Rush also expressed a belief in the power of words to connect people through storytelling, allowing readers to find themselves and their desires within books.
Availability and Formats
The novella "Hard Ball 2: Playing for Keeps" was released on November 3, 2026. It is available in multiple formats to readers. These formats include paperback, e-book, and audiobook. The audiobook version is narrated by Eddie Burke.
Distribution for the novella extends to major retailers. These include Amazon, Apple Books, and Barnes & Noble. The FalconINK website, FalconINKBooks.com, also provides information regarding the release.
Key Facts
- FalconINK, a Falcon/NakedSword imprint, released "Hard Ball 2: Playing for Keeps" on November 3, 2026.
- Riley Parks wrote "Hard Ball 2: Playing for Keeps," which is a sequel to "Hard Ball."
- The novella is available in paperback, e-book, and audiobook formats, with Eddie Burke narrating the audiobook.
- The story follows Mateo Ruiz and Chase Whitaker as their secret relationship navigates their professional baseball careers on rival teams.
- FalconINK launched on July 28, 2026, publishing erotic male/male romance stories in print, e-book, and audiobook formats.
- FalconINK operates with three imprint lines: Falcon Books, NakedSword Books, and Raging Stallion Books.
