What a great read, I was not expecting to cry but I did. A well developed book with great story and characters. This might be the most realistic sports romance I have read and enjoyed. Super spicy and extra hot read.

New Adult college hookup read.

This has all the sports romance (and college romance) check mark items. Drama, friends, the parties, the friends with the side stories (who hopefully will make it to the sequels or have their own stories?),then the mean girls. You name it you got it.

The romance part - well, let's just skip that as it just went straight to screwing if we are honest.

Then he starts to woo her. Because she allows it. That's when it gets kind of cute in that sense.

The insta love connection was a little odd, there were a lot of steamy scenes in the first half (not so many in the second half).

Overall it was alright.

Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for my DRC.

Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for an eARC.

I enjoy a good sports romance. Anna and Drew are college students. She is focused on school and he is the BMOC as the star quarterback. She catches his eye and he's captivated and is determined to win her over. She is hesitant and thinks he's the typical athlete player.

Don't want to tell to much so as not to give spoilers, but they go through a lot in life as they pursue their romance and we are along for the bumpy ride.

I adored Drew immediately and his inner thoughts were entertaining. Anna took a little bit to grow on me. Was definitely rooting for this couple.

4.25 ⭐
2 🌶️
Tropes/themes: College romance, football romance, FWB to love, new adult, he falls first and harder
Dual POV 1st person
So I started reading again regularly at the end of 2023, and I discovered ARC reading last July. I signed up for NetGalley and went hog wild requesting books. But as I started to read more and more I fleshed out more of my likes and dislikes about books. However, I have all these ARC obligations but sometimes I have one that I’ve realized isn’t my thing but I try to read it anyway because it’s on me that I requested it before I knew my tastes.
Which is what happened with this book. I have been more deliberate lately about not reading books with young MCs (18-25 yos) So I went into this story with a negative vibe since it’s set in college BUT it actually blew me away. I think Ms. Callihan did a really great job of writing authentic early 20 somethings without them being unrealistically mature/immature for their age.
The angst and chemistry is very well written, and Drew is so swoony and sweet. I was annoyed at how the FMC was so insecure- I didn’t think the backstory gave a realistic reason for it- but I think it was still written in such a way that made it believable for her age.
Iris is kind of a bitch though. At first I liked her but by the end of the story I think Anna deserved a better friend. I also wish there had been more resolution in the story with Iris, George and Henry and that Gray had been more fleshed out as a character.
And finally, I thought the third act drama/fighting was pretty realistic, and it was refreshing to see a couple have a legit fight and go through it to where they come out on the other side. Meaning, a lot of times the 3rd act breakup seems contrived, but this one did not.
I highly recommend this book!

My first time reading this author and I see that this is a revamped version so to speak of her 2014 book. I always enjoy a good college romance and this one between Anna Jones and Drew Baylor fits the bill for me for the most part. Their attraction is almost immediate as the seemingly shy and introverted Anna can't even breathe as her new deskmate in one of her senior year classes is none other than the star quarterback. Drew is just as taken with the beautiful redhead and from their first interaction, it's apparent both have a fire within them that perhaps only the other will be able to keep burning.

I liked both characters immensely and their pairing, although somewhat strange to others around them, really did seem to work well. Especially since Anna, in particular, wants nothing more than just one brief 'time' with the sexy Drew, hoping she'll get him out of her system just as quickly. However, what they have doesn't restrict itself to just one time and soon they are both craving the other like nothing they've ever experienced before. Drew is a true sweetheart, allowing Anna to be herself and not putting pressure in them becoming more, even when he so desperately wants her forever. I really loved him and his dedication to his sport, his team and then to his true love Anna. He's a good guy for sure even when his heart is breaking.

But Anna being the tough nut to crack, kept her emotions in check and that's the part that drove me a bit crazy. Sure, I get when the nerdy girl is a late bloomer (as her mother also pointed out) and can't fully accept or believe that a man like Drew Baylor would be interested in her for more than just a quick hook-up. But it took waaaaaaaay too long for her to finally be honest with her man, frustrating both me and Drew beyond belief, to come clean as to why she kept pushing him away. Then when tragedy strikes and Anna finally pulls her head out of her proverbial arse, I could only hope it wasn't too late to reclaim her guy and put those nagging fears and doubts to rest for good. For me, I feel as if for both characters, more in terms of their pasts and whys of some of their actions would have been useful in understanding them now.

I will say, however, that once the horrible incident occurs and Anna does in fact become the woman Drew always knew was inside her insecure mind, I couldn't wait to see how everything would play out both on and off the football field. Callihan doesn't disappoint in how she concludes the book although since it was revamped, I do think an even longer epilogue would have been great.

But with great secondary characters, a ton of witty moments and plenty of steamy times to round out this love story, I can happily say that I would not hesitate to read from this author again and am glad to give The Hook Up a solid 4 stars.

The writing was really good, and the characters were very likeable. I tend to hate the WMC in books like this, but Anna felt very refreshing. I also tend to dislike dual POV, but seeing that Drew wasn't just a player was really beneficial to the story.

Tonight was obviously an ill-advised hook up for her. And I’m so screwed because it was the best thing that has ever happened to me.

As soon as Anna and Drew see each other in class, they're hot for each other. Anna carries self-esteem issues from being overweight in highschool and social anxiety, so when she learns the tall good-looking guy that is sending tingles up her spine is the college's star quarterback, she wants nothing to do with that fish bowl. Drew doesn't know or understand fully all of Anna's issues and why she's being so stubborn about acting on their obvious chemistry but he senses deep down that she's The One, so while he'll go slower to earn her trust, he's all in.

If only he was someone else. Something else. A regular guy. A nobody like me. But he’s not and never will be. When I think of the public scrutiny he, and by default anyone he’s with, endures, I want to hide away, run for the hills.

The Hook Up was a New Adult story about a sparking chemistry couple in different college cliques that hotly delivered (did it ever!) on it's title, at least in the beginning. I said that Anna was stubborn about acting on their chemistry, don't worry, the stubbornness doesn't last long on the physical front. These two were hot little potatoes and bless Callihan and her open-door scenes in a contemporary romance (not surprising the original pub date on this). However, since I was enjoying those scenes so much, I grumpily felt like it was a little bit of a bait-and-switch when the second half lost some of that fervor in favor of a dragged out Anna and her issues with mini little tangents. I understand that the tangents were there to entice for the secondary characters that will star in later books in the series but too many distracted from the spicy main course.

“Why won’t you let me kiss you, Anna?”

I flew through the first half filled with hot, snappy, chemistry between Anna and Drew and liked how, told through alternating povs of both characters, we could see how much Drew liked Anna but was letting her lead and go at her pace, when emotionally it was hurting him because he wanted to share how much he liked her but was scared she'd run. These two had connections, Drew's parents died when he was in high-school, Anna's father left when she was young and has a mom that chases love with the wrong men, they've felt alone. Emotionally and personality wise they connected, and I felt it through their dialogue, it's the outside world that messes with them and Anna's fear of being scrutinized, which with Drew's popularity, is going to be a given occurrence. The second half has them fighting with misunderstanding where the other is coming from. That and how they're both coming into their own, Anna questioning what she wants to do with her life after she graduates and Drew realizing that he's done with the partying, helped to make this have a great New Adult feel. Their romance also had some of those sweet and angsty new adult giddy romance feelings.

“I’ve missed you.”

The first half I was ready to give this five stars but the second half changed the pace on me so much, a decent amount of it dragging, that it couldn't stay there for me. Drew proclaims his feelings, Anna's “rules” wall crumbles, and we a get a third act break-up that simply gets resolved when Drew gets hurt during a game (people who don't like sportsball, never fear, mentions of football to more so introduce teammates for future books and only a brief look at his practice and even briefer scene of one of his games). The injury works to help them resolve their romantic relationship and then the last twenty percent was about Drew's mental health regarding his injury, it almost felt like a completely different book from how it started. We do get a two years later epilogue to check in on their HEA. A hot, new adult love first half that shouldn't be missed with a slower paced working it out second half, so maybe the best of both worlds for some readers.

When I first picked out this book, I didn't realize that it was already published. I'm not complaining because it was really good. It was the first book I have read by this author and I can see myself reading more. It was funny, steamy, and romantic. The ending was really good and better than I thought it would be. I'm grateful that netgalley and the publishers let me read this in exchange for an honest review.

I originally read this when it was first indie published. I rated it four stars, but didn’t review it. Re-reading this new updated edition, it is still enjoyable and a four star read for me.

Drew Baylor is the college star quarterback who falls for Anna Jones when he first sees her in class. She doesn’t understand his interest in her as she has her own insecurities about herself. They “hook up” but she tries to keep him at a distance to keep her heart in check and not get hurt.

Drew makes this book for me. He is the perfect book boyfriend. He has it all, but is not a jerk. Drew is a really nice guy. I loved reading his POV.

Anna drove me bonkers, at first, with her whole attitude towards Drew. As the book progressed, though, I loved her more and more-especially at the end when Drew was not himself.

I can’t wait to re-read book two about Gray Grayson.

Thank you to Canary Street Press and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own

Okay, this book was everything. At first, I wasn’t sure what to think, but I’m so glad I kept going. Anna and Drew are like the ultimate opposites-attract couple. Anna is all “I’m too busy for drama,” while Drew is the cocky, charming star quarterback who’s used to getting what he wants. But when their worlds collide, it’s wild.

Their chemistry is CRAZY and the banter between them is gold. Drew isn’t just a typical athlete; he’s got layers and I’m obsessed. And Anna? She’s feisty and snarky, but you can’t help but root for her as she deals with her own baggage. Their relationship is messy, a little complicated, but that’s what makes it so good.

The whole friends-to-lovers vibe is real, and I was here for every single moment. Plus, the book isn’t afraid to dive deep into the real stuff—like how love isn’t always easy, but it’s totally worth it in the end. Drew and Anna had to fight for each other, but in the best way possible.

If you’re into steamy, slow-burn romances with a good amount of tension and humor, this one’s a MUST. Plus, Drew’s friend Gray? HILARIOUS.

TL;DR: Hot chemistry, witty banter, and a love story that’s got all the feels. Go read it.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You'll be hard-pressed to find a better college football romance!

Anna and Drew are like magnets. They are drawn to one another, despite Anna's fear of relationships. Quickly, their chemistry, which is too strong to deny, has them giving in. Drew falls first and falls HARD, but Anna is wary, holding him at a distance at every turn. Complicating things is Drew's status at their college. He's the star quarterback that everyone wants, and she still sees herself as the girl no one does. But can Drew convince her that she's more than worth it...and to really dive in and take a chance on him?

Kristen Callihan can write some spice!! The slow burn. The way Drew gets Anna to come around. The pining! The library scene! WHOA! What starts as physical, turns into a love so deep that the numerous curveballs thrown their way can't stop it. The curveballs, or whatever football metaphor you can think of, haha, felt like a bit too much, which is the only thing that keeps me from giving this book a perfect five stars. It felt like it could have ended a bit sooner. Regardless, I love this series so much, and can't wait for the re-releases on the way to the fifth book (finally!) coming out!

I'd like to thank Harlequin Trade Books and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Hook Up is a captivating and emotional New Adult romance that combines explosive chemistry, well-developed characters, and a heartfelt plot. The story of Drew Baylor, the charismatic college quarterback, and Anna Jones, a determined and reserved student, transcends typical genre clichés by exploring themes of self-acceptance, overcoming past trauma, and the complexities of genuine love.

Drew is much more than the stereotypical "jock" often portrayed in romance novels. He's sweet, loyal, and profoundly human, making him irresistibly likable. Anna, on the other hand, is a strong and complex heroine. Despite her insecurities and past experiences with bullying, she slowly allows Drew to break through her emotional defenses.

What starts as a casual "hook up" evolves into a deeply layered and meaningful relationship. Their chemistry is palpable, and the romantic scenes strike a perfect balance between passion and vulnerability. The moments of tension and angst are well-paced, adding depth to the story while showcasing the growth of both characters.

The college and sports setting feels authentic and well-researched, accurately depicting the demands and pressures faced by athletes. Kristen Callihan's writing shines in portraying the highs and lows of this journey without resorting to unnecessary drama.

The Hook Up is a must-read for fans of the New Adult genre. With its blend of fiery romance, sharp dialogue, and emotional depth, it's a story that will melt hearts and leave readers eager to dive into the next books in the series.

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

⭐️/4
🌶/3

This book was excellent. Not your average sports romance. Anna is the poster child for carrying our parent's flaws. Watching her mom lose at love has made her jaded and a real commitment phobe. Then there's Drew. Who has been deeply wounded by the loss of his parents. The Hook Up is full of angst and turmoil, as well as being spicy and a tad bit funny.

Drew has a really bad case of insta-love when it comes to Anna, but she isn't interested in being in the spotlight and having her insecurities and flaws put on blast by being seen with the star quarterback. When Anna suggests a friends-with-benefits relationship only, Drew agrees. He will take anything he can get.

Through trials and humiliations, Drew and Anna navigate their arrangement and their future. Drew does his best to pull Anna closer as she pushes him away. Eventually the two get their HEA.

I must admit I almost DNFed this book after the first 5%-10%. I dont dislike love at first sight but the MMC Drew was just straight up obsessed with the FMC Anna after seeing her for the first time. Like it was too instalust/instalove for me but I pushed through it and gave it a chance and I'm glad I did.

This book follows Drew and Anna who met in a Philosophy class. Drew is the known quarterback of the college football team and was instantly smitten with Anna at the get go. Anna who was heartbroken from a cheating ex kept him at a distance initially not wanting to do anything with him. But alas, she couldnt resist and they hooked up at a party only to do it more times than she wanted to. They kept a casual relationship until little by little our guy Drew wormed his way into her heart and they fall in love with each other.

Cute story right? Well, brace yourself because it didnt stop there. There's a lot of drama and chaos that ensued after that and for me, it truly made the story. Like I mentioned above, I didnt want an instalove/instalust story but what Anna and Drew had was actually more than that. They truly love and care for each other. Yes, there was heartbreaking drama here but it gets resolve quickly only for something else to happen that derailed this budding relationship. This is still a HEA story but man, the author put us through a lot until the last 95% of this book.

Overall, I think this is a good book that tackles mental health, finding your anchor/support system through your friends and partner, overcoming insecurities, and finding love amidst all that.

You have to be reeeeeeally okay with instalust for this one, because it comes on strong.
Her physical reactions seemed over the top, at the same time as her mental dislike of him. And there is an abnormal obsession (for her and other characters) with her chest. It’s a lot, and frankly the descriptions seem really weird for a woman to have written.

All that aside, I started giving up on the story when her friend lied to get her to go to a team party. She had specifically said she wasn’t interested in one of those, had reasons, and the lie being blown off did not sit well with me. She should have turned around and gone home, ending it all right there.

I tried to give the book a little longer, but I still was not buying their chemistry and gave up at 15%
I feel like I was reading an entirely different book than other reviewers

He falls first is one of my favorite tropes and this one gave me everything I wanted and more. 3rd act was not what I was expecting either! Solid spice mixed in at just the right places. Definitely looking forward to reading more from this author.

The representation of curvy FMC made this a 4 star read! Especially watching her struggle with her image and knowing that Drew was serious and wanted her the way she was. I loved that there was multiple moments of dispute between the main characters instead of just a 3rd act break up. Anna standing her ground and pushing Drew to get help was a *chef’s kiss moment!

Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. These opinions are completely my own.


I'll be honest when I write that I was going to skip over this one because of the length. I find that I end up getting bored in longer spicy liter, but that was not the case here.

The book flows nicely and although I wasn't sold by the prologue, the story quickly got my attention.

This book really did it for me. It was hot, it was sweet, it was sporty. I love Drew. Anna is a badass. Together they're amazing. Definitely want to read more in this series!

Despite being total opposites, star university quarterback Drew Baylor is immediately drawn to the headstrong red-head, Anna Taylor, in his class. When a steamy hook-up at a party leads to a friends with benefits situation, Anna is determined to keep Drew at a distance: no kissing on the mouth, no sleepovers, and no catching feelings. But Drew has other plans…he wants the type of relationship that his parents had and he’s willing to fight for the chance at something more, with Anna. Can Drew break down Anna’s defenses and convince her to give him a real shot?

The Hook Up is an opposites attract football romance and the first book in the Game On series. It deals with themes and topics like body image, self esteem and self worth, mental health, dealing with past trauma, bullying, death of parents, parental abandonment, parent-child relationships, love and heartbreak, fear of commitment, cheating, finances, friendships, and injury. This would be perfect for fans of sports romances like The Deal by Elle Kennedy, The Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata, The Rule Book by Sarah Adams, and Fall with Me by Becka Mack.

I thought that The Hook Up was unique in that there was lots of spice at the beginning of the book and the majority of the relationship building happened in the second half of the book, which seemed almost the reverse order of most other romances I’ve read. Furthermore, even though Drew and Anna’s physical relationship was the opposite of a slow burn, the plot was slow to start and hard to get into, however the second half of the book was a lot more engaging and hard to put down! This book also dealt with some more serious and emotional topics in comparison to other books, including dealing with grief and trauma, which made the plot more memorable and meaningful. I also have book two, The Friend Zone, on my TBR list and I really appreciated that the male main character and even some plot points for book two were introduced in The Hook Up to create more anticipation!

The Hook Up is told from a dual point of view, which was great, but I found that the point of view changed a lot, sometimes multiple times per chapter, which I found unnecessary and challenging to keep track of. Additionally, there was almost too much conflict in The Hook Up; I’m typically not a fan of conflict or break-ups in romance novels so this was definitely a negative for me.

If you’re like me and The Hook Up has been on your TBR list forever, this rerelease is the perfect excuse to finally pick it up, especially if you are a fan of spicy football romances!