The Prospects: A Novel (Dial Delights)

I thought this book was absolutely fantastic and groundbreaking, and I recommend it to trans guys I encounter on social media who are looking for book recommendations. The main character is a gay transgender man, just like myself and so many other guys who have never seen themselves reflected in print before. The book also features a rich cast of supporting characters: the sweet former college crush, the fiercely supportive best friend, the lesbian manager fighting tooth and nail to build a career in baseball, and the aging pitching star facing the end of his time in the spotlight. Because the story is set in the world of baseball—a sport I’m deeply familiar with from years of going to games and playing softball—I actually understood and appreciated all the sports references, which made the experience even more immersive. At its heart, the book is about choosing your own identity and path, insisting on claiming your place in an environment that doesn’t want you there, and daring to want something you’ve been told you’re not allowed to have. And because this is a romance novel, it’s not a spoiler to say that this time, the queer person gets to have it all. I highly recommend the audiobook as well, it's read by a trans person. I almost teared up when it started.

4.5 stars I love stories that center hope and optimism and joy, especially when they're queer stories! <i>The Prospects</i> does that in a way that feels honest, true, and possible. Gene is the most chaotically optimistic person I've read and I love him for it. He is unapologetically himself the whole time, flaws and fears and wants and all of it. He's gay, he's trans, he's neurodivergent (ADHD), he's an athlete. Luis is a darling with his anxiety and quiet support. I loved seeing their relationship bloom and grow, watching them settle into themselves. It's a very queer experience to give yourself permission to want things that someone like you hasn't achieved before and KT Hoffman captured it brilliantly. If you're like me -- not a baseball fan AT ALL -- don't let that stop you from reading this book. Yes, baseball is a huge part of Gene's life and story but it's done in such a way that even total noobs can understand. I never felt lost or bored by it. It's unpredictable and demands optimism in the face of uncertainty. It's perfectly Gene and perfect for him.