Everyone has demons -- something in their past that manages to haunt them. For some these demons occupy too much importance in their lives, influence decisions, impact directions and even cordon off the heart. Escaping those demons can often feel like a full time job. But you know the saying that the tough get tougher. Karen Rock's book A LEAGUE OF HER OWN emphasizes strength and love as important factors while growing up. Not everyone gets their fair share and yet still manage to forge ahead and succeed. A LEAGUE OF HER OWN speaks to anyone with personal challenges or demons to conquer with touches of humor, grace and love to ease the journey. And Karen Rock does it all with aplomb.

Heather and Garrett at first glance have little in common with the exception of their athleticism and love of baseball. Heather's world has always revolved around softball and baseball -- it was a family legacy for generations of the Gadway's. They owned a minor league team.

Heather's father was not an easy man to live with or impress and she worked diligently to gain what few compliments or words of praise this guarded man would throw her way. Heather feared her mother's terrible mood swings influenced by a reliance on drugs. Heathers entire childhood was spent placating the father that she loved and cherishing the all too few good moments with her mother.

As a young adult Heather drew on her desire to win her father's approval and at the same time carefully guard her heart -- keeping a safe distance from anyone with even a hint at an addictive personality who could once again hurt and betray her. As long as she remained distant and professional Heathers involvement with her teammates kept her safe from harm. In one word -- trust -- was not one of her strong suits.

No matter how hard Heather tried, her resolve to keep a distance from the team pitcher Garrett Wolf was tested - that line she drew crossed over but always to her dismay. Although she greatly admired many of Garrett's strengths she feared the one thing he couldn't absolutely promise -- abstaining from alcohol -- an addiction that he faced down continually and would his entire life.

Sometime something happens in life and simply put it colors the way we look at things. Realizing that everyone is capable of making mistakes and getting past them is part of life. There are times when the only thing you can do is take that giant leap of faith and trust.

A LEAGUE OF HER OWN is part of the Harlequin Heartwarming series of stories. Don't be misled by the inclusion of this book. There's nothing sappy or condescending about this lovely and at times raw story. Karen Rock has an enviable talent for creating very real characters with flaws and issues and insecurities just like the best of us. There's no doubt that in short order A LEAGUE OF HER OWN will rein you in and keep you turning pages. Rock makes sure you are fully invested in this story about people who just want to find a safe place for their heart.