I can't rate this higher than 2 stars solely because of the ending. I am all for introducing SOME twists and turns into a romance novel but to go full Pollyanna on me at the end? Nah. Nope. Not for me.

I don't even know where to start with this book. It was fantastic but really gets you in the feels. I'm new to Max Monroe as an author but they are quickly becoming some of my favorites. For a young adult romance, it really exceeded my expectations. I cannot wait for the next books in the series to come. It also makes me want to go back and read the stories of the parents you meet in the book.

This book is about Scottie and Finn. Both are at Dickson U on scholarships and have some trauma in their pasts (and present) from their parents. But neither knows that about the other; they just have an instant connection. Finn, however, has an agenda while at school and he doesn't want to get Scottie wrapped up in it. He feels she is too good for him and continues to push her away. Scottie is a bubbly but shy cheerleader who is overwhelmed with the larger school, grades, practices, etc. She can't handle Finn's push/pull of her emotions. Just the relationship is enough for most students but Scottie is also being harassed but doesn't want to tell anyone. When a prank goes horribly wrong, she can't handle it anymore and basically becomes a bit of a hermit. After everything else going on, horrible tragedy strikes ...the hits just keep on coming. But Finn finally has it together and only wants Scottie no matter her past, present or future.

Honestly there is so much going on in this book. You just have to keep reading. Besides the main characters, the side characters in the book are also amazing. Ace is just...ugh...I wish his book were next.

Definitely recommend!

Learning Curve is the first in the Dickson University Series and features the second generation of the Billionaire Bad Boys and Winslow Brothers. Finn and Scottie were great together - the story is romantic, heartwarming, emotional and I loved the rest of the gang's hilarious antics. Can't wait for the next in the series!

A fun college romance, with a bit of revenge and mystery tied in. However, it is a bit of a textbook romance though. It had such a great beginning but then it just went downhill from there
3

This was an emotional book for me. While Finn and Scottie’s story took an unbelievable turn, I feel like I saw it coming but I really wished it didn’t.
Finn has so much drama and won’t let anyone in. Scottie comes with her own bag of issues but know one sees it until it’s too late. Great book,long read and some areas I think could’ve been shortened but over all I give it four stars. Anxiously awaiting book 2 in the Dickson Series. Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC.

Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book for my honest review.

This was my first Max Monroe book and I can honestly say their writing lives up to the expectations I had.

I loved Scottie and Finn. Watching them grow and flourish was an honor. Through all of their hardships and no matter how many times they wanted to give up, their devotion to one another was impeccable. A girl can only hope that one will love her as freely as Finn loved Scottie.

I will be picking up the second book as I need to read about Blake’s conquest in finally wearing Lexie down.

3.7 stars 🌟

Learning Curve took me on a whirlwind of emotions, and I have to say, it was quite the ride! 🌟 Packed with a mix of angst, drama, and college shenanigans, the book kept me hooked, even though a few parts left me scratching my head. But honestly, what’s a good New Adult romance without some chaos, right?

✧ Tortured bad boy meets virginal cheerleader 🖤
✧ College romance 🎓
✧ Push and pull relationship 😤
✧ Found family 💕
✧ Slow burn 🔥
✧ Angst and drama 😢

Okay, let’s dive into Finn and Scottie! Finn, the classic tortured bad boy with hidden depths, and Scottie, our virginal cheerleader heroine trying to survive college life, have insane chemistry! 🔥 Their push-and-pull dynamic had me on the edge of my seat. Every time I thought they were getting closer, something happened to pull them apart again. It was the kind of emotional rollercoaster that made me want to scream but also kept me frantically turning the pages.

What really stood out to me was how Max Monroe portrayed the growth in both characters. Finn isn’t just brooding for the sake of it—his past pains feel real and relatable. Meanwhile, Scottie’s journey, especially dealing with her toxic relationship with her mom and navigating life’s hurdles, added depth to her character. These weren’t just cookie-cutter protagonists; they were fully fleshed-out and easy to root for.

The writing? Chef’s kiss! The vivid, rich details and the perfect balance of humor lightened up the heavy drama when it needed it. But here’s where things got a bit messy: the plot. It had a few wild twists and felt a little over-the-top at times, like when a secret underground society (Double C) was introduced. It added excitement but also made me raise an eyebrow at the outlandishness.

Pacing-wise, Learning Curve wasn’t perfect. The story felt long, with some scenes dragging while others, especially key emotional moments, were cut way too short. It left me feeling like I was missing out on some real magic. But for lovers of a slow burn with satisfying character arcs, there’s a lot to love.

Side characters were a treat! The found family vibes were heartwarming, and the supporting cast added so much charm and depth. I’m already eagerly anticipating where the author will take these characters next! 😍

However, I can’t ignore that the story sometimes felt more like a high school drama than a college one, especially with how characters reacted to situations. And let’s not forget the melodramatic twists that, while entertaining, could be a tad too much.

All in all, Learning Curve is an intense, emotional, and sometimes frustrating ride, but the character growth and Finn and Scottie’s undeniable connection make it all worth it. If you’re in the mood for a New Adult romance filled with drama, secrets, and plenty of heart, you might want to give this one a shot. Just prepare for a few bumps along the way! ✨

Big thanks to NetGalley and Max Monroe LLC for the free copy!

3.5 round up to 4 🌟

This is definitely new adult as both MMC's are 18 at the beginning of the book.

If you are a fan of Say you Swear you will enjoy this read.

This is part of intertwining previous books by Max Monroe but can be read as standalone.

The story is told between Scottie and Finn but the side characters definitely make the story!

Scottie meets Finn at the beginning of her freshman year at Dickson U. Her on scholarship for cheering and Finn with his own personal agenda.

They connect from the beginning but fight it through the first 50%

I enjoyed the ride the story brought you on but thought it was at least 150 pages to long.

Will I hang on for the DU book, not sure yet??

I'm really enjoying the new path that Max Monroe seems to have gone down. Their books are still as spicy and engrossing as ever - - but they've definitely added a bit more emotional drama. The storylines now seem to deal with more serious topics than in the past. This intensity really makes you feel for the characters even more than previous books.

Finn and Scottie were a couple that I seriously loved. Finn had so much bitterness in the beginning of the book due to issues with his father. Scottie had her own baggage. The two of them together were definitely a dangerous combination but at the same time they were also a perfect one. Of course, in total "Max Monroe" fashion, this poor couple couldn't catch a break because different things kept "happening" to them. Things they'd have to "overcome." The story is one that definitely keeps the reader hooked and wanting to see what happens next. I look forward to continuing this series.

Thank you to NetGalley for this early copy.

I LOVED this one! Very thankful to be able to have the chance to read this one. I really liked the humor, the emotion, the love - all of it!

This is my first book by this author and I enjoyed Finn and Scottie's story. It was quite a long story, with a rollercoaster or emotions. I teared up in parts and laughed at Ace's antics. Excited to read Blake's book.

Max Monroe - this one was heart wrenching!! The push and pull and sheer perseverance between the main characters Finn and Scottie was absolutely intoxicating! Even though these characters are young college age students- I was still able to form a connection with this emotional read. It was truly a whirlwind of emotion.

I loved the original series of Winslow Brothers. This is the start of the Dickson University series which is about the offspring of the Winslow Family. I love the interconnection and enjoyed getting glimpses into the lives of the Winslow brothers and sister so many years later. I can’t wait to read the next in this series!

Scottie is a cheerleader at Dickson with her boyfriend Dane, who is an asshole and a half. She meets Finn and they are instantly on each other's minds. Finn decided to go to Dickson to meet his half siblings. He found out that his abusive father abandoned an entire family before starting a new one with his mother. The premise of Finn blowing up the "happier family" seemed odd to me, especially since they ended up being so amazing to him and his siblings. This story was a bit clunky at times and Scottie's injury was a big time bummer, but it appears that Finn and Scottie are the real deal. I would have loved an epilogue that shows their future, but perhaps we'll see that in future books. I'm definitely invested in Blake's declaration that he will end up with Lexi. I guess we'll find out in book 2.

I was hooked from the start thanks to the dynamic between Scottie and Finn. Their chemistry was off the charts, and their banter was hilarious. The way they challenged and supported each other made their relationship feel genuine and relatable. Scottie caught feelings and gave up her virginity rather quickly in my opinion which was a little unbelievable, but still loved her as a person.

However, I wasn’t a fan of the third-act breakup. It felt predictable—I saw it coming from a mile away and knew it would all be resolved quickly. I don’t think it added anything to the story and I think it would’ve been perfect without the added drama.

That being said, Finn absolutely shone during the rough patches. The way he stepped up and handled himself when Scottie got hurt was heartwarming. He didn’t just talk about being there for her—he showed up, time and time again, even when it was difficult. That level of commitment and support made up for some of the frustrations I had with the plot and left me rooting for their happily ever after.

First of all, thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of this book.

This was a fun, hot time. College, sports and drama. What more can a reader ask for?
I have read several Max Monroe books before and again I feel as though I was given exactly what I was expecting.
I loved the connection between Scotty and Finn and what they endured.

Will definitely be needing to read more in this universe!

Another great story by Max Monroe. Loved that it was set in a college setting. Finn & Scottie and friends bring lots of angst and drama, but a fun ride as well. Can't wait for the next installment in this series.

This was once again such a fun read by this amazing duo. It gave me all the feels and emotions. The banter, the tearing at my heartstrings. They know how to write amazing characters!

Max and Monroe have knocked it out of the park again. Finn and Scottie are adorable and I love everything about this book. They had a lot of obstacles to get through so they could finally be together but it was all worth it. They had such an instant connection that they couldn't deny no matter how hard they tried. The fact that he kept bringing her everything she needed to get through the day even though she still wanted nothing do with him made me scream, such a good guy. The found family was also so fun and I can't wait for everyones book. I want Julia and Ace's book next but I guess I'll be fine with Blake and Lexi.

I received an arc through netgalley.

When I read the authors note to this book, I scoffed. I thought it was just talk… I WAS SO WRONG! This book has become one of my favorites. The authors did an EXCELLENT job highlighting and incorporating things that May Halle to real people into this story. For example, dealing with troubled childhoods, depression, disabilities, etc. The way it was written also helped me create a connection and truly sense of caring for Finn and Scottie. They both came from troubled families but did not let it define them. Definitely a book I’d recommend!

This book takes you on a ride. I had no idea what to expect. Both characters while seemingly come from different worlds find that they end up having a lot in common. The push and pull between them was addicting. I had to keep reading because when you think they're finally getting somewhere something comes in to push them away again.