The Open Era

"[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.

Author: Edward Schmit
Publisher: Berkley Books
Published: 06/02/2026
Pages: 368
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.57lbs
Size: 8.00h x 5.19w x 0.69d
ISBN13: 9780593956779
ISBN10: 059395677X
BISAC Categories:
- Fiction | Romance | Sports

About the Author
Edward Schmit is an author based in New York City. From theatre kid to graphic designer to creative director, he's always exploring new ways to tell stories. A passionate mental health advocate, he's worked in the nonprofit space for more than seven years. The Open Era is his debut novel and combines three things close to his heart: queer love stories, mental health awareness, and the most beautiful sport in the world: tennis.