The Hook Up, written by Kristen Callihan, is the first book in the Game On series. This title was originally published in 2014 and is being released in January 2025.

Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, Romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters: Anna (FMC) & Drew (MMC)

This title is a sports themed, opposites attract love story. Anna and Drew first meet class, Drew is instantly attracted but Anna is hesitant. She does not understand how someone like the college football quarterback could possibly like someone quiet and reserved like her.

They have their instant connection and there is some OW/OM drama, but no cheating. There is a third act breakup that lasts a few weeks, both date other people but soon realize they only want each other.

This is my first time reading this author, for a college themed sports romance it was pretty good!

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title!

Anna and Drew spar with each other from their very first meeting and continue to do so all while fighting intense attraction between them until one night it becomes too much. From then on it becomes a battle of giving into that desire but also keeping a distance something Anna struggles with because Drew is all in from the start. For as much as they spar with each other they also care deeply about the other and eventually find themselves falling in love despite everything. They have their ups and their downs but together they learn to be their best selves.


Thank you publishers and netgalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback

I know these characters are young heels, but I was not prepared for the level of immaturity that they possessed. Because of this I could not get into this story. It was also an insanely quick insta love. Like wow they saw each other and were totally and utterly head over heels in love. I just could not. I am really sad that this was not the book for me as I wanted to like it. Next time.

The Hook Up by Kristen Callihan is a steamy, heart-tugging romance that defies the rules of casual hookups and explores the intense chemistry between college student Anna Jones and star quarterback Drew Baylor.

Anna is determined to keep her focus on finishing school and avoiding complications, especially with someone as high-profile and irresistibly attractive as Drew. Despite her best efforts, their paths cross and ignite an undeniable passion.

This story's banter, fun, and spice were so great! Drew is so swoon-worthy that I just melted! Their chemistry was off the charts. Readers will not be able to resist this one!

If you're on the hunt for your next New Adult romance that you will swoon over, appreciate the spice, and enjoy humor then I have found the one for you! Kristen Callihan, a new author in my reading repertoire, has quickly earned a spot on my auto-buy list with this captivating novel.

From the very first page, I was hooked. Callihan masterfully weaves a story so compelling and immersive that I found it impossible to put down. Her characters are richly developed, the chemistry is sizzling, and the plot is both heartwarming and exhilarating.

This is a must-read for any fan of the New Adult genre. The blend of romance, emotion, and drama is perfectly balanced, making it a truly unforgettable experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this book and eagerly anticipate diving into the rest of the series. Kristen Callihan has undoubtedly established herself as a standout author in the genre, and I can't wait to see what she delivers next!

I almost DNF’d this at the beginning because the MCs were so childish but I stuck with it and they were actually so cute! Drew bestie in what world is it okay to call a woman “Big Red” and think she won’t be offended 😭

Overall this was a fun read and the two of them are so incredibly cute together.

Read if you like:
• football romances
• dislike to lovers
• man falls first

Oh my god I think this is the worst book I’ve ever had the displeasure of reading. I got 31 pages into The Hook Up before finally choosing my sanity over a misogynist, poorly written novel. Before I went back on here to write my review, I had to confirm whether this was written by a woman or not. The FMC is literally one of the most poorly written women I’ve seen in my 27 years of existence. The misogyny is coming from inside the house!!! Anna is the most insufferable character my two eyes have read and I only made it through 7% of The Hook Up. I am absolutely SHOCKED this book has so many raving reviews when I would rather poke myself in the eyes than try to read this ever again. If there was a way I could bleach this experience from my brain, I would do it. Rip to the brain cells I lost in the 20 min I spent trying to read this.

Thank you to Canary Street Press, NetGalley, and the author for sending me an early copy.

Prior to receiving this ARC I hadn't heard of this book and oh my goodness it needs more hype!! I loved both of these characters so much, they held so much depth and had flaws that were so real. The third-act breakup was almost painful to read because of how much I cared about the characters and the love they had. Would definitely recommend this book and plan on reading the next one. Love the new covers. Thank you to The Hive for sending me the digital copy of this book.

While I know this story is loved by so many in the sports romance genre, so much so that it was picked up by Harlequin and traditionally republished, I struggle to see it in a high regard like everyone else. It read extremely dated, you could tell it was written in 2o14 and not changed for the current romance market in 2024. The republished edition didn't help refine the writing at all either.

While I think this could've been perfectly fine to someone new to the sports/NA romance scene looking for a fun time, hence my 3 star rating, it didn't meet the mark for the standards set by other really great sports/NA romances I have read and loved.

Going into it I knew that it was going to be spicy, but I was not expecting it to be so much. Regardless of the spice, I stated up until 3 in the morning to finish it.

It follows two college students; Anna and Drew. Drew is your typical popular star quarterback of the football team, while Anna is more of the invisible girl whose only priority is her education. Drew is all in for Anna when he lays eyes on her, but Anna is hesitant to start something with the popular quarterback. He will do anything to prove to Anna that he is completely and utterly all in for her.

At first, I found Anna to be annoying because she thought she was so different from the other girls, but my opinion changed quickly when I got to see the insecurities she had. Her insecurities made me understand the way she acted and behaved, specifically when it came down to Drew.

Drew, at the very start, rubbed me the wrong way, but that was until I read his inner monologue and got to understand who he was. Even though at times he felt so self absorbed, but deep down he truly cared for the people in his life especially Anna.

After the first half, I started to feel like their situationship was getting slightly toxic. Even though I was holding hope for them, I think everything could have easily been resolved if they simply would have communicated their feeling to one another.

All in all, this was a good read and I hope to continue the series to see what comes next!

Overall I really enjoyed this romance! I liked getting to read Drew’s inner monologue and would’ve liked to get more insight like that into Anna. Anna had great character growth throughout the story because at first I wasn’t totally sold on her tbh. The spice was well written and not overdone (but let’s be real for me that’s not even ever a problem lol). I could easily relate to Anna being studious and keeping to herself because I used to be the same way.

The Hook Up is a fast-paced New Adult romance that packs some serious heat from the first chapter. Drew and Anna have it bad for each other and despite their own personal issues and working through some insecurities as a couple, they manage to be there for each other and come out on top. I think the author did a great job of depicting a believable college romance and friend group. I love a romance with a dual POV and this is one I think you'll love the male perspective. If you're looking for a romance with a lot of angst and some swoon-worthy moments, pick this one up for summer! So excited for the new cover reveal!!!

Okay, I loved the story of the football star and the girl who wants nothing to do with sports. A sweet and sappy love story, something I don’t normally read. But, WHOA. That was spicy! 😅😈🍆🍑🍒.

Overall, a cute story, but not for me. The chemistry is way too physically driven. There is no slow burn or build up. There was some amazing banter at the beginning, but ended once the MCs got together. This is just two people who are hot for each other and then get to know each other as they casually hook up. I need more depth from my reads. Anna’s insecurities seemed over the top at times and the way Drew acts after his injury had me rolling my eyes. I did appreciate how they communicated and how Anna stood her ground at the end. She didn’t allow a situation that could have been taken the wrong way get to her and that was probably my favorite part of the book. I also love that he fell first. I recommend this for people who like their reads extra steamy. I had to skim A LOT. 🫣

Thank you to Canary Press for a gifted copy. My thoughts are my own.

This was a fun and spicy quick read! I am not usually a romance person but this was a breath of fresh air. I really enjoyed this!

Thank you so much to the Harlequin for the exclusive copy of this!

This book was originally released back in 2014 but will be re-released on July 9th.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I am truly in my sports romance era. I gobbled this one up. I haven't read too many football romance (only the Alexa Martin series) but this one was just SO good!

"Doesn't noise hurt your head?"
"Your voice isn't noise. It's a song I want to hear over and over."

Drew *sigh* - if you are looking for a book boyfriend. Drew Baylor is the one for you. There is just something about him. I swooned the whole time from start to finish. He just was so enamoured with Anna. Anna was very resistant and Drew had not done anything to make her think differently but the reputation and him being who he was had her scared. They were just so incredible hot together. And their intimate scenes were so so good! OH and the fact that she wouldn't kiss him when they would hook up, who knew could be so hot.

One of my favorite chapters came later in the book (chap 36) where Anna is taking care of Drew. I just loved their vulnerable conversation and it was just a love fest of feelings. I was happy for Anna to own up to her mistakes in their relationship & the reasoning behind it - "I kept waiting for you to realize that you'd got it wrong. That I was the girl you were never supposed to see."

This was just a fun time from start to end. I just loved their dynamic. The banter between not only between Anna and Drew but the banter between each of their friend groups. I enjoyed when the scenes also included them! I loved George!!!

I know there are more to the series and you betcha I will be checking them out! Especially because the next book MMC is Gray Grayson who made an impression in this book.

And with this re-release we get a bonus chapter that takes place after the book ends but before the epilogue!

I recommend this if you are looking for a college, steamy romance with dual POV!

The Hook Up is a delightful romance with strong characters and a satisfying happily-ever-after. While the plot might not surprise seasoned romance readers, Callihan's writing style and the undeniable chemistry between Anna and Drew make this book a worthwhile read.

This is the first "football romance" I have read, and while the first couple of chapters had me questioning if it would be my cup of tea, I ended up finding it hard to put down. Anna and Drew's situationship had me on a rollercoaster from frustrated to enthralled, and ultimately swooning over their relationship. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the Game On series!

Re-read April 2024

I loved being back with Drew and Anna! Drew Baylor is the poster child for an all in hero. lol The steamy scenes were so sexy and it was so fun to fall back in love with this couple. Yes, there are hiccups along the way, but the end is more than worth it. Rereading also made me miss Gray ;)

This new edition features the same Drew and Anna story we love, but it also includes a new illustrated cover and bonus content as well! We get a peek at Drew and Anna after graduation, but before the book's epilogue, and I had a huge smile on my face the entire time. You don't want to miss it!

*I voluntarily read a review copy of this book*

*****
Original Review April 2022

I am always amazed that Kristen Callihan can get me to devour books with tropes that I would normally shy away from. Childhood bully - read it in one sitting. Rockstar romance - thank you ma’am, may I have another? Instalove - gobbled it up and licked the plate clean.

I’m not sure I’ve ever encountered a hero so gone for the heroine before. Drew was all in from the very start and though the instalove is off the charts, it totally worked for me (Kristen Callihan witchcraft I tell you!) This was a great twist on the big man on campus/just a hookup tropes. The main drama and conflict didn’t feel unnatural to me and was understandable given both character's histories and insecurities. The momentum did stall a bit in the middle though, making the book feel overly long. Things do get more emotional towards the end, but I appreciated how those obstacles were addressed and the epilogue was the perfect way to bring the story together.

I both read and listened to this one and loved the narration by Teddy Hamilton and Maxine Mitchell. Their voices complement each other very well and Maxine Mitchell gave an especially heartfelt performance. I’m excited to read Grey’s story next, but it’s Dex’s story that I’m truly dying for!

Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars

CW: death of parents (past), parental abandonment (past), bullying (past), mentions of cheating (secondary character), football injury/hospitalization, depression, MC’s go on dates while separated and one MC is kissed briefly but doesn’t reciprocate

This was the first spicy sports romance book that I have ever read, so I have no idea what level of "spicy" this is considered. I was scared going in because I wasn't sure what to expect, and then I stayed up until 2:30 a.m. to finish it.

Anna and Drew are college seniors. Anna prefers to be invisible and focus on her studies. Drew is the star quarterback of the football team. When Drew sets his sights on Anna, she is hesitant, but he will stop at nothing to prove he is all in for her.

My relationship with Anna's character was a roller coaster. At first, she was way too much of an, "I'm not like other girls," girl for my taste, and I found myself rolling my eyes. I quickly grew to love her as we saw the insecurities that guided her behavior. I loved Drew right from the beginning. Unlike Anna, the reader gets to see his inner monologue, and you can't help but find him kind of full of himself, but also a teddy bear on the inside.

I don't want to give away any spoilers, but the second half of the book is tough as their situation-ship gets tested. There were points in time where I felt their relationship reached dangerous toxicity. I was routing for them to get help and make it through, but at the same time found myself wondering what advice I would give a friend in a real-life situation.

Overall, I surprised myself with how much I ended up enjoying it and I will be reading the other books in the series.