Learning Curve by Max Monroe was such a good read, focusing on Finn and Scottie, two freshman in college with childhood trauma that each wants to forget. Finn grew up with a mean, drunk of a father, while Scottie's mom has also had substance abuse problems, with the focus never being on her daughter. Finn has a bigger secret that he discovered, which has been all consuming and forces him to put distance between himself and Scottie. What he isn't able to do is forget just how much he loves everything about her and can't stop thinking about her. Even when he pushes her away, he can't ignore the feelings that he's harboring for her. Scottie, having had enough with Finn and his constant hot and cold, tries to focus on cheerleading and her studies, but when an event at a party destroys her confidence, she hides from everyone and anyone who heard the rumors. Finn, not being able to help himself, makes sure Scottie is taken care of. Delivering food to her dorm, notes from her classes, and anything else she may need, he does these things because he has realized she is what is important to him. Now he just has to beg for her forgiveness and hope she is willing to accept his apologies. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Learning Curve by Max Monroe

“She’s the good girl cheerleader, and he’s the tortured bad boy who fights in an underground ring.”

Thank you to @netgalley for this ARC!

Did this come out this past summer, yes. Am I just getting around to the review...also yes.

This was a high emotion college romance with angst, drama and a hint of banter. I was hooked in from the beginning, (first 10%) but around 50-75% in, the dialogue fell a bit for me and the MCs became a bit annoying with their communication. Are the MCs mature....not so much —but the adventures and spice are there (I do have to say though the FMC was a virgin and she jumped very quickly to lose it and that kinda rubbed me the wrong way) There was just a lot going on and I didn’t fully believe in the relationship.

I always say this, but reading is subjective. Just because this book was not for me does not mean that it will not be for you.

If you like;
🎀Good Girl vs. Bad Boy
💞Dual POV
🎓New Adult College Romance
🌷Virgin FMC
🎭Family Drama
🥊Protective MMC

Try this one

#learningcurve #maxmonroe #collegeromance #bookreview #bookreviewer #netgalley

Finn and Scottie are an emotional roller coaster that I loved being on. Max Monroe constantly write the most amazing romance books that I always love reading and easily connect to.

💥𝙻𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙲𝚞𝚛𝚟𝚎 - 𝙳𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚜𝚘𝚗 𝚄𝚗𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚢 𝚂𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝟷 - 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠💥

Author: Max Monroe

Couple: Scottie Bardeaux & Finnley Hayes

Tropes: Intense first love vibes, Cheerleader virgin meets the tortured bad boy, Grumpy/Sunshine, opposites attract, He FIGHTS for her, College DRAMAAAA, ANGST & loads of tension, Secrets, Twists & turns (you will NOT see coming)

Review: If I had to fall in love with a book then Learning Curve would be the one! Max Monroe kicked off her newest series of interconnected standalone featuring the second generation of her beloved billionaires and their friends in an EPIC fashion! Scottie and Finn hold a dear place in my heart after finishing this book and the story between them is one of the most emotionally invested romances I have EVER read by Max!

Learning Curve has everything we love from Max and while the characters shine on their own, it was the found family vibes that she created with Finn, Scottie, Ace, Julia and Blake that sucked me in. Finn begins this book as a rough character who is so closed off he can’t even begin to understand how to open up. I loved how Max created his character story and inner turmoil to fit with his outward persona and then slowly showed us the way he began to evolve as he let in Ace and then Julia, Blake and Scottie. His complexity as a character was the dynamic part of this book and Max Monroe was able to weave the backstory of the Hayes family and the Winslow family in such a way that your heart couldn’t not break while reading. Finn’s steadfast goal of upending Ty Winslow’s life and in return all of the Winslow siblings’ lives was the epicenter of his storyline and I appreciated that as he began to open up to friends and even accept his feelings about Scottie that his goals began to alter and then change.

Scottie was the sweet and innocent FMC that paired oh so well with Finn’s bad boy side. From the initial meet-cute you could see the sparks flying between them and feel the instant connection these two had within the story. I loved how Scottie was a softer FMC than what I have come to read from Max but also possessed the raw grit to go after what she wanted…even if what she wanted was Finn. Max Monroe set up this book in a way that I was captivated from the first word Scottie had in the prologue, all the way until her deception was laid bare. Her naivety and fear of Finn’s reaction lead us on a journey of intense emotional angst and pining since it led to the third act betrayal and break up but I also felt like it was needed since both of them needed to grow as MCs before settling into their HEA.

Max Monroe threw a ton at us in Learning Curve and the twists and turns she kept punching us with shocked me until the end. The love between Finn and Scottie was combustible and slightly toxic at first but ultimately became soft, sweet and swoon worthy by the end. The way Finn stepped up for Scottie after her accident and then while she was healing and learning who she was again was beautiful to read and kept me in tears while also praying that Scottie would take him back and Max did not disappoint with how she brought them back together. Finn and Scottie are cemented as one of my ultimate book couples and Finn may be the book boyfriend we all secretly pine for from here on out!

**SPOLIERS**

Now…let’s talk about Ace Kelly! His character was the MAN in this book and I did not expect anything less for Thatcher Kelly’s son. I LOVED the way he attached himself like a glued on barnacle to Finn and broke him out of his shell. I also ADORED the pining he did over Julia and cannot wait for their book in this series. Both of them are the perfect blend go their parents from the original Billionaire series Max published and the angst and swoon will be next level for them…I already know!

While Ace and Finn had a hilarious friendship, I knew I would love Ace from the moment Thatcher pulls the ultimate prank on his son in class. The chaos these two stir in next level and I applaud Max for the way she was able to suck Finn into their whirlwind of pranks, bonding and emotional support.

ON another note, I cannot wait to see Lexi and Finn bond more in her book that is set to release next and hope to see more sibling teasing now that Finn is part of the pack. I am also extremely excited to see more of the Winslow family in her book and meet the rest of the Hayes kids more! So far the Dickson University series has exceeded everything I expected and I know it will only get better from here…as each of the second generation gets knocked to their knees in love!

Rating: 100+, Scottie and Finn had me rolling around laughing then shaking my fist angry the next in this emotional whirlwind of a romance by Max Monroe!

Learning Curve is my first Max Monroe read, and it did not disappoint!
It's a angsty college romance that is unlike any other I've read. It's intense, unexpected and although not a "dark" romance, there is definitely some heavy, deep topics and takes you on a ride - so buckle up it's a good one.
I will say it felt a little slow in the beginning with the back and forth between Scottie and Finn, but it all makes sense and adds the much needed layers for the latter part of the book. And o0o0o0o0o0 when the action hits - it hits HARD! You get ups, downs, laughs, cries, ALL of the D.R.A.M.A. you'd expect from young adults running around trying to adult.
Finn and Scottie are both tortured souls, poetically "broken", but their pieces match just right. There's ton of "edge of your seat" twists and moments of pure emotion that leap off the pages.
No spoilers, but just OMG that ending, did not see that coming and ooofff did it take me out.
I lost sleep over this book with the absolute NEED to know what happened.
Loved it and would totally recommend. I can't wait to catch up on the Billionaire series and read the Dickson U book -Playing Games!

Finn is one complicated guy, who definitely knows how to fight, while Scottie is a cheerleader who has hidden wounds. They may seem to be each other’s opposites but deep down they are both wounded souls who are attracted to each other.

Despite the will they or won’t they phase in the first half, they soon realise that they are meant to be together. But challenges lie ahead so prepare your tissues for the angsty twist!

I loved how Finn was so patient, persistent and caring. He loved her unconditionally and gave her the space she needed. He is definitely Fight Club material and I enjoyed seeing his protective nature come alive for both his family and Scottie. The ending was a sweet one which reflects hope for their future.

Overall Rating 4.5⭐️
Steam 3🌶️
This new adult standalone romance has it all:
😍Dual POV
🫶Intense first love vibes
📣Good girl cheerleader meets the tortured bad boy
☀️Grumpy/Sunshine, opposites attract
😅He FIGHTS for her. Literally.
🫢College DRAMA
😂 Banter that will make you laugh out loud
🔥 Angst that will set your heart on fire
💔 Twists that will leave you breathless

This second-generation story about the kids of the Billionaire Bad Boys and The Winslow series from Max Monroe is everything we needed. You do not have to read these two series before reading this book. This book is a standalone novel but if you want some great humor and banter, I suggest you read them.
This first book tells us the story of Finn Hayes and Scottie Winslow on campus at Dickson University.
Scottie is the virgin cheerleader that is attending Dickson for their stellar cheerleading team and her slug of a high school boyfriend has followed her. He is a part of their football team and thinks he is “big man on campus”.
Finn Hayes is the broody bad boy who would rather throw punches than discuss anything. He has come to Dickson to seek out and blow up the life of his half-brother, Professor Ty Winslow. He has the same English class with Scottie and his roommate, Ace Kelly. The son of Thatcher and Cassie Kelly. Yes, you read that right Thatch Kelly is all over this story as well. I love Thatch!!
These two have so many star-crossed moments in this book that adds the tension and angst and heat. They are in the same class together and Finn helps her navigate the ugly things that her boyfriend does to her only to pull away from her when they get intimate. Scottie swears off Finn Hayes and everything that he is a part off. Unfortunately, she befriends Julia Brooks who is Georgia and Kline Brooks’ daughter and a great friend to Ace Kelly. Their paths continue to cross on various experiences including the secret club that Lexi Winslow (Winnie’s daughter) is running on campus. This secret club has special experiences each month that they participate in. These experiences create situations where Finn and Scottie need to make decisions about how they feel about each other and what their future may look like.
Over the course of their freshman year, the push and pull between these two is a beautiful dance to read about. There are plot twists that rip your heart about, piece it back together only to rip it out again. Never fear though, they do eventually put your heart back together and leave you anxiously waiting for book 2 in this series.
Enjoy reading - Peace ☮️ and Love ❤️ my friends!!
I was given this ARC opportunity by NetGalley.
#NetGalley
#Learning Curve

Such a good read, just as the other books
I’ve read from Max Monroe! Complex characters, you’ll find tension, emotion, drama, and romance with lots of twists and turns; what else do need?! Read it, you won’t regret it!

Learning Curve by Max Monroe is the first book in the Dickson University romance series. I enjoyed the romantic buildup and the healing both the MC and FC got in the book. I didn't like the twist at the end though. I get the authors were going with unconditional love and rising above adversity, but I think the FC needed to catch a break. It was totally unnecessary to end the book that way.
I got a complimentary copy from Max Monroe LLC via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are mine.

If you love angsty, passionate romance with complex characters and dark secrets, this book will pull you in from the very first page. Set against the backdrop of Dickson University, it's the classic tale of opposites attracting - but with a fiery twist that keeps you hooked until the very end.
Meet Finn Hayes: The brooding, tortured bad boy with a mysterious past, a quick temper, and a body that could make Greek Gods jealous. He's dangerous, magnetic, and impossible to ignore. His complexity isn't just for show - there's a depth to him that unfolds beautifully as the story progresses, revealing layers of vulnerability beneath his tough exterior.
And then there's the cheerleader: She's not just the virgin stereotype you'd expect. Sure, she's sweet and driven, but she's also fierce in her own way - especially when it comes to unraveling the mystery that is Finn Hayes. Their chemistry is electric, filled with tension, banter, and moments so raw they practically leap off the page.
What sets this book apart is the undercurrent of darkness - the secret society known as Double C, Finn's troubled past, and the emotional roller-coaster that comes with first love. It's not just about falling for someone; it's about surviving them. The author doesn't shy away from the messy parts of relationships, making the love story feel authentic, intense and at times heartbreaking.
Final Thoughts: This isn't just a romance; it's a story about growth, pain, and the harsh lessons love can teach you. If you enjoy books like After by Anna Todd or Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire, you'll devour this. It's proof that love isn't always easy - it's messy, complicated, and sometimes it can break you before it builds you back up. Grab a copy, buckle up, and prepare for an emotional ride.

Ooh, this second generation, college based romance had all the drama! Finn and Scottie are two teens already with some past baggage, but their connection is instant and it was a joy to see their trust and relationship develop. The college experience was really represented: from the classroom setting and extra-curricular activities to the characteristics, mannerisms and actions of the main characters. As the story developed, Scottie sure goes through a lot, with a major plot even happening near the end of the book. The emotions were raw! I enjoyed the dual PoV, the short chapters, the side characters and although I haven’t read the first generation books (yet!) I absolutely loved meeting the parents and relatives that helped shape and develop the characters.

Thank you Max Monroe and Netgalley for this opportunity!

I went into this story thinking what could these young college kids possibly know about real life issues. Lol

I do prefer my romance characters to be older than these characters, but wow, they went through a lot.

This is only my second Max Monroe book, but these authors have a way of pulling you in and grabbing your attention and pulling on your heart strings.

This story had heartbreak, family drama, love, friendship, betrayal… it had it all.

The story talks about the Winslows from another series, but you don’t have to read them in order to understand what’s going on. Now, I will go read that series soon because I’m very curious about these men.

Now on to book 2 :)

***Five CRYING MY EYES OUT Stars***

Holy Crap!!! When I hit 70% and it was all nice and roses, I just could not wrap my head around the book not being over. Like WHAT ELSE could be happening?! OMG I was NOT ready for what happened next!

Author Note: Learning Curve is a New Adult Romance standalone that is book one in the Dickson University Series. This highly-addictive series will follow the grown-up Billionaire Bad Boy kids and long-lost Winslow siblings as they navigate college life and relationships. Buckle up for all the college drama, romance, spice, angst, and humor. You do not need to have read the Billionaire Bad Boys Series or Winslow Brothers Collection to read Learning Curve. It is a complete standalone.

I mean, it's true but I'm definitely going back to catch up on everyone because I LOVE THEM already.

Finn and Scottie are EVERYTHING! These two have been THROUGH it and more. Alcoholic parents, his dad and her mom, have set them up for some CRAP! Finn heads to Dickson with one mission, to ruin his brother. A brother who doesn't even know he exists. It's all he can think about and it's all that matters. Scottie is a competitive cheerleader with an asshole boyfriend, who she quickly disposes of THANK GOD! Too bad he's a real big POS who then goes on to make Scottie's life miserable.

HUGE Thank you to NetGalley and Max Monroe LLC for the opportunity to read and review this book.

this was an amazing book.

It was filled with emotional drama, love, tension.

Everything to keep me hooked from the start.

5 stars.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in Max Monroe’s Dickson University series. I wasn’t familiar with some of the older secondary characters, which were part of the Winslow Family series and the Billionaire Boys series, but that didn’t hinder my enjoyment at all. Only made me interested to read both of those series in the future. I really enjoyed the writing, there were some very funny, laugh out loud moments and dialogue. There were several, not overly used plot points, which helped the story seem fresh and not just a recycled trope. With so many romance or contemporary writers out there, which is great, it makes for a lot of overused storylines. The romance was on point, and the angst was sufficient, but i will say it lost a star just for some slow, dragging filler I skimmed through. If it doesn’t move the story forward, I get a bit bored.

Thanks to NegGalley for letting me read this free for my review. Helps the pocketbook with so much to choose from. Starting book 2 now.

If you're a fan of Elle Kennedy's Off-Campus series, you're going to love Learning Curve by Max Monroe. The only thing this book is missing is the hockey, but Max Monroe more than makes up for it with amazing characters and a fun underground society twist. Plus, if you've read any of Max Monroe’s Billionaire Bad Boy series or the Winslow Brothers collection, you'll get to reconnect with some of your favorite characters from those books.

Learning Curve follows Finn and Scottie through their freshman year of college. Finn is the tall, handsome, broody guy, and Scottie is the smart, sunny cheerleader. They meet while heading to the same class, and over the course of the book, their feelings for each other develop. Like the title suggests, love is a learning curve, and the characters face unexpected challenges along the way.

Please note, this book touches on themes of addiction, domestic violence, and depression, so be aware if those topics are triggering for you.

This may be listed as a standalone, but I HIGHLY RECOMMEND reading the OG Billionaire Bad Boys series before delving into this one. No, it really isn’t necessary, but omg does it make it SO much more fun to read if you know all the history! New adult isn’t my most favorite romance trope, but I couldn’t not read it after the OG Billionaires. I really enjoyed this book and I know other Max Monroe, and romance readers in general, will really enjoy this one!!

I guess I’d give this a 3.5 star rating if I’m being perfectly honest.

Let me start by saying I LOVED seeing old characters from Max Monroe books and now getting to experience books with their children. The old favorites are just as fabulous as they were in their own books and I am so loving this second generation.

Finn and Scottie are so sweet and you can’t help but feel for them and their messy pasts. But you have to love their new friend group that surrounds them and fights for them always. The whole plot was interesting and I really liked it…..until……

Until. The last trauma/break up of this book was totally unnecessary. I hated everything about it. Yes, they got their happy ending but it isn’t what you want to see when you’re waiting for everyone to be happy and ready for the next book in the series. The first 2/3 of this book was fantastic and everything I was hoping for. The last 1/3 just left me sad.

But I am anxiously awaiting and crossing my fingers that Ace and Julia get their own book and their well deserved happy ending - hopefully with no sad and depressing ending thrown in at the very end.

My first max Monroe book and I am sad to say I was so underwhelmed. Lots of cringe moments and forced emotion

⭐️/4
🌶/2

First of all, what a freaking roller-coaster. I didn't know up from down and where anything was going at all. Just CURVE balls all around.

This book took me for a ride in the best and worst ways. I was happy, mad, sad, mad, and then happy all over again. The ending was a whole twist I didn't see coming and it left me wanting more.

All I have to say (because I truly, honestly, and wholeheartedly don't want to give ANYTHING away) is that if you're looking for a book that's going to rip your heart out and then shove it back in, this is the one for you. Max has done it again with a book that kept me hooked.