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Cover of The Open Era

The Open Era

Edward Schmit (2026-06-02)

SubgenreSports Romance
Age groupAdult 18+
Content ratingPG-13
Pages369 (Standard (250-400))
Setting
CSM age16

Content levels

ViolenceNone
Sexual contentMild
LanguageMild

Trigger warnings

AnxietyMental Illness

Protagonist archetypes

Duo / Partners

Synopsis

"[A] debut romance novel that will capture your heart."--Cosmopolitan Love evens the score between two tennis players in this stunning debut romance. 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, with headlines to prove it. Unprepared for this new spotlight, Austin’s anxiety disorder hits a breaking point, and he trips and falls at practice. Right next to the very attractive, very talented, and probably straight Diego Cruz, ranked second in the world. The two professional rivals start a friendship off the court. But between their flirty banter, mixed signals, and looming showdown, Austin is thrown further off his game by Diego. With the eyes of the world on Austin, the weight of history on his shoulders, and Diego across the net, he must decide whether love means nothing or if it means everything as he battles for the trophy during an electric two weeks at the US Open.

Tags

M/M RomanceContemporary RomanceDebut NovelMental Health Rep

Is The Open Era appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 16 and up.

This M/M romance features an openly gay tennis player navigating his first Grand Slam tournament while dealing with anxiety disorder and developing feelings for a rival. Contains anxiety representation, romantic tension, kissing, and mild intimacy.

What to know going in

This book has no graphic violence, mild sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include anxiety and mental illness.

Who'll love this

A swoony sports romance about two tennis rivals whose friendship becomes something more during the high-stakes US Open tournament.