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Newhouse University #1
Easy Out
LAUREN:
I've been able to keep my personal and academic life separate for the last three years I've been at Newhouse University. Not even my best friend/roommate knows the truth about my past. I learned a long time ago the best way to survive is to be invisible.
My hope of graduating under the radar goes up in flames when James Hart gets assigned as my journalism partner. Not only do we have to write an article together, but he also has to write a story about me. I don't see an easy way out of this one.
HART:
I'm perceived as the campus grouch, but since I play baseball for the school, my behavior is excused. I don't date. I don't socialize. I have a small group of friends, and I'm happy with that. I didn't come to Newhouse to meet new people or fall in love. I'm here to play baseball and get drafted.
That is until I see her. The little witch who put me under her spell. I'm not sure what to do about it. The more I get to know her. The more I want to keep her around, even if it means exposing a part of my past I keep hidden.
NOTE: This book contains explicit language and sexual scenes. It is recommended for an adult audience.
I've been able to keep my personal and academic life separate for the last three years I've been at Newhouse University. Not even my best friend/roommate knows the truth about my past. I learned a long time ago the best way to survive is to be invisible.
My hope of graduating under the radar goes up in flames when James Hart gets assigned as my journalism partner. Not only do we have to write an article together, but he also has to write a story about me. I don't see an easy way out of this one.
HART:
I'm perceived as the campus grouch, but since I play baseball for the school, my behavior is excused. I don't date. I don't socialize. I have a small group of friends, and I'm happy with that. I didn't come to Newhouse to meet new people or fall in love. I'm here to play baseball and get drafted.
That is until I see her. The little witch who put me under her spell. I'm not sure what to do about it. The more I get to know her. The more I want to keep her around, even if it means exposing a part of my past I keep hidden.
NOTE: This book contains explicit language and sexual scenes. It is recommended for an adult audience.
423 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2024
About the author
Ginger Walls
10 books321 followersI grew up with a wild imagination and talking to invisible friends. It's no surprise I grew up wanting to tell the world about these people living inside my head.
My stories reflect my love of romance and my weird sense of humor. I want my characters to feel like your best friends.
If you like stories that make you laugh, cry, and feel something real, I hope you pick up one of my books.
For more information, visit my website linked in my bio.
WRITING STATUS:
Currently writing Frankie & Eli's story! It will be available Spring 2026.
IMPORTANT LINKS:
WEBSITE:
http://gingerwalls.com
IG:
http://instagram.com/gingerwallsauthor
FB: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGinger...
NEWSLETTER:
https://gingerwallsauthor.myflodesk.c...
My stories reflect my love of romance and my weird sense of humor. I want my characters to feel like your best friends.
If you like stories that make you laugh, cry, and feel something real, I hope you pick up one of my books.
For more information, visit my website linked in my bio.
WRITING STATUS:
Currently writing Frankie & Eli's story! It will be available Spring 2026.
IMPORTANT LINKS:
WEBSITE:
http://gingerwalls.com
IG:
http://instagram.com/gingerwallsauthor
FB: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGinger...
NEWSLETTER:
https://gingerwallsauthor.myflodesk.c...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
August 8, 2024
LOVED IT 😍
DUAL VIRGINS (Both are each other's first in everything)
College romance
She's a dancer, and he's baseball palyer
They both are grumpy and closed off to others but very sweet for each other.
HEA
DUAL VIRGINS (Both are each other's first in everything)
College romance
She's a dancer, and he's baseball palyer
They both are grumpy and closed off to others but very sweet for each other.
HEA
January 19, 2025
I find it difficult to get into the first 30% of the book. I'm not sure if there's a book needed to be read before this because it seems like all the relationships between the MCs and side characters have already been established.
Lauren and Hart have known each other since freshman year. Their friends are close, but they never became more than acquaintances. Yet for some reason, in their senior year, Lauren joined a dance competition, and that's the first time Hart saw her perform. Then he all of a sudden developed some sort of attraction to her, and she did too.
Idk, but there's just something about the writing style that doesn't vibe with me. Also, this is way too long for a story that is not even complicated. It became sort of repetitive with her dancing, his baseball games and practices, them studying, eating, and sleeping together. Add in the underprivileged kids and teens Lauren was trying to teach/support. Then that bomb about her father's identity. Even though there seemed to be a lot going on, it didn't feel overwhelming. Tbh,, I felt bored at some parts and had to skim them.
Also, I think the constant Spanish convos didn't make it any better. Look, I don't speak the language, so I'm going to need the translation right then and there on the page. Unfortunately, these translations are situated in a different chapter in the end.
Anyway, it just didn't work for me, and I tried to push through, but it just didn't get any better.
Book info:
- College romance
- Sports romance (baseball)
- Death of a loved one
- Domestic violence
- Abandonment issues
- Mention of bullying (past)
- Speech condition (past)
- Broody x Broody
- Dual V
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- HEA (10 yrs later, married with 3 sons and 1 girl otw)
Lauren and Hart have known each other since freshman year. Their friends are close, but they never became more than acquaintances. Yet for some reason, in their senior year, Lauren joined a dance competition, and that's the first time Hart saw her perform. Then he all of a sudden developed some sort of attraction to her, and she did too.
Idk, but there's just something about the writing style that doesn't vibe with me. Also, this is way too long for a story that is not even complicated. It became sort of repetitive with her dancing, his baseball games and practices, them studying, eating, and sleeping together. Add in the underprivileged kids and teens Lauren was trying to teach/support. Then that bomb about her father's identity. Even though there seemed to be a lot going on, it didn't feel overwhelming. Tbh,, I felt bored at some parts and had to skim them.
Also, I think the constant Spanish convos didn't make it any better. Look, I don't speak the language, so I'm going to need the translation right then and there on the page. Unfortunately, these translations are situated in a different chapter in the end.
Anyway, it just didn't work for me, and I tried to push through, but it just didn't get any better.
Book info:
- College romance
- Sports romance (baseball)
- Death of a loved one
- Domestic violence
- Abandonment issues
- Mention of bullying (past)
- Speech condition (past)
- Broody x Broody
- Dual V
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- HEA (10 yrs later, married with 3 sons and 1 girl otw)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2024
Honestly, how could you not love Lauren and Hart!! Hart is the Newhouse baseball star who doesn’t say much, but all the girls fawn over. Lauren is the girl who hides more in the background.. until she hits the dance floor.
First off, Hart speaks Spanish on the regular to Lauren throughout the book. Talk about sexy. There’s just something about the way he murmurs sweet nicknames or endearing statements to her in another language that is delicious. But what really seals the deal on Hart is his heart. He is a young man, still figuring out his life and next steps. He’s pretty experienced when it comes to romance and girls because he’s avoided them and focused on baseball. Don’t worry, he’s 10/10 a gentleman to Lauren and it makes you love him even more!!!
Lauren meanwhile doesn’t let anyone get too closer due to fear of abandonment. She is fierce, but also delicate and just wants to be wanted. Her and Hart truly make the best pair because of their fierce loyalties. She dedicates her time to youth in her trailer community in order to help them have better lives and education, acting as many of these kids big sister when they have no one else looking out for them.
Their story goes through some very shocking twists and turns, and I couldn't believe how much was jammed packed into this book! I didn't want it to end, bur felt like it wrapped up so well! Can't wait to read more from the Newhouse series!!
First off, Hart speaks Spanish on the regular to Lauren throughout the book. Talk about sexy. There’s just something about the way he murmurs sweet nicknames or endearing statements to her in another language that is delicious. But what really seals the deal on Hart is his heart. He is a young man, still figuring out his life and next steps. He’s pretty experienced when it comes to romance and girls because he’s avoided them and focused on baseball. Don’t worry, he’s 10/10 a gentleman to Lauren and it makes you love him even more!!!
Lauren meanwhile doesn’t let anyone get too closer due to fear of abandonment. She is fierce, but also delicate and just wants to be wanted. Her and Hart truly make the best pair because of their fierce loyalties. She dedicates her time to youth in her trailer community in order to help them have better lives and education, acting as many of these kids big sister when they have no one else looking out for them.
Their story goes through some very shocking twists and turns, and I couldn't believe how much was jammed packed into this book! I didn't want it to end, bur felt like it wrapped up so well! Can't wait to read more from the Newhouse series!!
March 26, 2025
I ate this book up! Wow this was just so cute and I loved the mix of Spanish sprinkled in. The book gives a little of a Step Up vibes which was cool to see. A highly recommend for sports romance lovers out there.
July 8, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. It was the cutest read that I have read in a long time. This book had me in all of my feels. I smiled like a little school girl, I blushed, I swooned and I cried. I wasn’t expecting so many emotions from book and I'm not mad about it.
I first want to talk about the plot. I loved this plot. It is so different than anything I have ever read. The vibes of this book is a mix of the movies Step Up and Honey with a baseball player MMC. Hart and Lauren come from different backgrounds but each of their childhoods have affected them as young adults. Lauren lost her mother at a young age and never met her father. She grew up in foster care which has created the woman she is today. This is also the reason why she works so hard to help the kids in her neighbor strive for a brighter future. Hart was bullied as a kid due to his stutter which caused him to be broody and quiet. As you can imagine, Hart is the master of one word sentences but when he speaks, he spoke with such intention. These two seem like opposites at first but once their stories are revealed they are more alike and the relationship that they create is so beautiful. For two people who are so closed off to the world, to see them fall in love with each other, be vulnerable and be each other's strength was such a beautiful thing to read.
I also want to say, I didn't expect this book to go in the direction that it did. Like I mentioned I really loved this plot. I liked the twist and I loved all of the side characters! I am so thankful a friend gifted me this book because I don't know if I would have read this one. But she knew I needed this book and I am so grateful for that.
So if you are looking for a really sweet love story that will have you in your feels this is the one for you! You might also love this book if you like the following tropes:
- Friends to Lovers
- Baseball Player MMC/Dancer FMC
- Strong Found Family Vibes
- He Falls First and Hard
- Dual Virgins
- Spanish Speaking MMC
I first want to talk about the plot. I loved this plot. It is so different than anything I have ever read. The vibes of this book is a mix of the movies Step Up and Honey with a baseball player MMC. Hart and Lauren come from different backgrounds but each of their childhoods have affected them as young adults. Lauren lost her mother at a young age and never met her father. She grew up in foster care which has created the woman she is today. This is also the reason why she works so hard to help the kids in her neighbor strive for a brighter future. Hart was bullied as a kid due to his stutter which caused him to be broody and quiet. As you can imagine, Hart is the master of one word sentences but when he speaks, he spoke with such intention. These two seem like opposites at first but once their stories are revealed they are more alike and the relationship that they create is so beautiful. For two people who are so closed off to the world, to see them fall in love with each other, be vulnerable and be each other's strength was such a beautiful thing to read.
I also want to say, I didn't expect this book to go in the direction that it did. Like I mentioned I really loved this plot. I liked the twist and I loved all of the side characters! I am so thankful a friend gifted me this book because I don't know if I would have read this one. But she knew I needed this book and I am so grateful for that.
So if you are looking for a really sweet love story that will have you in your feels this is the one for you! You might also love this book if you like the following tropes:
- Friends to Lovers
- Baseball Player MMC/Dancer FMC
- Strong Found Family Vibes
- He Falls First and Hard
- Dual Virgins
- Spanish Speaking MMC
February 29, 2024
The plot of this book, I loved. The romance, I loved. The writing? Left much to be desired. Almost every time there was a conversation in this book I was confused about who was speaking. This author uses dialogue tags that are the OTHER person’s actions. It was hard to understand. For most of the book I could tell it apart based on who was speaking Spanish until she started learning Spanish too and then I was confused all over again.
Thank god for kindle having a translate function built in but DEAR GOD I love the foreign language trope. Yes sir please speak sweet nothings to her in a language she can’t understand because then I get to feel like I’m in on the secrettttttt
Thank god for kindle having a translate function built in but DEAR GOD I love the foreign language trope. Yes sir please speak sweet nothings to her in a language she can’t understand because then I get to feel like I’m in on the secrettttttt
August 12, 2024
3.5/5⭐️’s
January 7, 2025
4 🌟
I had a rough start with this one. The characters are introduced rapidly and it was hard to follow along, and then all of a sudden it feels like I’m reading the cringiest Step-Up fanfic ever. It caught me off guard to be honest. But alas, I persevered and ended up really enjoying this, cringe dance group/crew stuff aside. Was it perfect? Absolutely not. But I enjoyed the romance factor and that’s what I personally find most important.
Lauren (h) and Hart (H) have a sweet, kinda slow burn, romance that had me kicking my feet and smiling like an idiot. Hart was just *chefs kiss*. So grumpy and quiet but secretly not grumpy at all, just a sweet man who was dying to meet his person and be brought out of his shell. Lauren was cool too, although I liked her considerably less than Hart. I mostly liked the side characters although I likely won’t be touching the next two books within a ten foot pole, for safety reasons. I did find the final conflict was resolved too quickly, and that Lauren was waaaayy too quick to forgive. If that was me I would be holding a very large grudge, but anyways 🤷🏼♀️
I definitely recommend this if you want a cheesy but fun and sweet romance with a bit of angst that’s mostly external to the main couple.
Safety:
Dual v. Both first everything to each other (LOVE!!).
No ow or om drama.
J/p H but nothing super concerning or red flaggy.
I had a rough start with this one. The characters are introduced rapidly and it was hard to follow along, and then all of a sudden it feels like I’m reading the cringiest Step-Up fanfic ever. It caught me off guard to be honest. But alas, I persevered and ended up really enjoying this, cringe dance group/crew stuff aside. Was it perfect? Absolutely not. But I enjoyed the romance factor and that’s what I personally find most important.
Lauren (h) and Hart (H) have a sweet, kinda slow burn, romance that had me kicking my feet and smiling like an idiot. Hart was just *chefs kiss*. So grumpy and quiet but secretly not grumpy at all, just a sweet man who was dying to meet his person and be brought out of his shell. Lauren was cool too, although I liked her considerably less than Hart. I mostly liked the side characters although I likely won’t be touching the next two books within a ten foot pole, for safety reasons. I did find the final conflict was resolved too quickly, and that Lauren was waaaayy too quick to forgive. If that was me I would be holding a very large grudge, but anyways 🤷🏼♀️
I definitely recommend this if you want a cheesy but fun and sweet romance with a bit of angst that’s mostly external to the main couple.
Safety:
Dual v. Both first everything to each other (LOVE!!).
No ow or om drama.
J/p H but nothing super concerning or red flaggy.
February 1, 2024
I love this book! Usually I read a lot of Dark Romance books. And I mean, I’ve never read anything that isn’t Dark Romance 😅🖤 but the story in this book keep me wanting to read it 24/7! ✨✨
Easy Out is about a College Romance where two quiet people meet and they instantly felt some kind of connection without even knowing it.
Lauren is the FMC. She is a HipHop dancer, almost like Step It Up. She is quite, but talks to her best friend Syd, keeps to herself, has a whole bunch of love to give even though she was left to fend for herself after her mother has passed away. ❤️ She has a very troubled past when she was young. But that did not stop her from becoming a very loving person. She is a dancer and she teaches some kids dance classes. She wants to help every one of them get better in life and loves each of them so much! 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
Hart is the MC. He is also quite, he does not talk with anyone expect for his best friends, he plays baseball, and oh yea, he talks to Lauren in Spanish 😍😍😍😍 I’ve always wanted to read where he talks to her in Spanish and man i instantly fell in love with him! He falls first with her, and very protective of her.
The story itself was really good! Kept me hooked the entire time! There is not a lot of spice that I’m used to, but the romance was DEFINITELY there ✨🫶🏻❤️ Oh but when the spice did show up 🥵🥵 Towards the end of the book, there was a MAJOR TWIST that I didn’t see coming! I literally had to finish reading it!
As I was reading this book, I instantly fell in love with all the characters. The main character and the extra characters all had good personalities and I felt like they all have their own unique story. She is coming out with new books for some of the characters and I literally can’t wait to review those! ✨✨✨✨
I definitely recommend this book if you love romance! East out will be coming out on February 20, 2024 on KU and Amazon on Paperback 💗
⚾️ College Sports Romance – Baseball
❤️ Friends to Lovers
⚾️ Never been kissed/Dual virgins
❤️ Mexican/African American MMC
⚾️ Spanish dirty/sweet talk
❤️ Dancer FMC (think Step Up vibes)
⚾️ He doesn’t talk to anyone but her
❤️ He falls first
⚾️ Found family
❤️ No third act breakup
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Character Build Up: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Easy Out is about a College Romance where two quiet people meet and they instantly felt some kind of connection without even knowing it.
Lauren is the FMC. She is a HipHop dancer, almost like Step It Up. She is quite, but talks to her best friend Syd, keeps to herself, has a whole bunch of love to give even though she was left to fend for herself after her mother has passed away. ❤️ She has a very troubled past when she was young. But that did not stop her from becoming a very loving person. She is a dancer and she teaches some kids dance classes. She wants to help every one of them get better in life and loves each of them so much! 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
Hart is the MC. He is also quite, he does not talk with anyone expect for his best friends, he plays baseball, and oh yea, he talks to Lauren in Spanish 😍😍😍😍 I’ve always wanted to read where he talks to her in Spanish and man i instantly fell in love with him! He falls first with her, and very protective of her.
The story itself was really good! Kept me hooked the entire time! There is not a lot of spice that I’m used to, but the romance was DEFINITELY there ✨🫶🏻❤️ Oh but when the spice did show up 🥵🥵 Towards the end of the book, there was a MAJOR TWIST that I didn’t see coming! I literally had to finish reading it!
As I was reading this book, I instantly fell in love with all the characters. The main character and the extra characters all had good personalities and I felt like they all have their own unique story. She is coming out with new books for some of the characters and I literally can’t wait to review those! ✨✨✨✨
I definitely recommend this book if you love romance! East out will be coming out on February 20, 2024 on KU and Amazon on Paperback 💗
⚾️ College Sports Romance – Baseball
❤️ Friends to Lovers
⚾️ Never been kissed/Dual virgins
❤️ Mexican/African American MMC
⚾️ Spanish dirty/sweet talk
❤️ Dancer FMC (think Step Up vibes)
⚾️ He doesn’t talk to anyone but her
❤️ He falls first
⚾️ Found family
❤️ No third act breakup
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Character Build Up: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Did Not Finish
August 5, 2025DNF: can't do it to myself! 😬
August 20, 2024
“Me encanta tu panocha apretada y la forma en que tomas mi pito” ☠️ PÁSENME EL CLORO. Esto fue horrible. Ni desarrollo romántico, ni entretenido, ni hot. Traducir el spice debería ser ilegal. Y el splangish? Ay no, CRINGE. Quiero fingir que jamás leí esto.
September 2, 2025
2.5 Stars
I tried to get into the story but it fell short in terms of engagement. The story reads as if this is not the 1st book. Is there another book? Anyway, the writing style did not work for me as well.
I tried to get into the story but it fell short in terms of engagement. The story reads as if this is not the 1st book. Is there another book? Anyway, the writing style did not work for me as well.
January 29, 2024
I need a hart in my life. I LOVED this one!! I’m a sucker for a wholesome man and a strong woman. AND ITS A BASEBALL ROMANCE?!? sign me up!!
July 23, 2025
4.5⭐️ Absolutely loved this! College Baseball romance and took place in Alabama? LOVED. My husband played college baseball in Alabama so this was just the best book to read. I can’t wait to continue this series 😍
February 4, 2024
⚾️ARC review⚾️
Easy Out by Ginger Walls
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I love a sports romance and found family 🫠
Lauren is quiet, she’s had a rough life that she doesn’t like to talk about. Sydney is her best friend and still doesn’t know much about Lauren’s past. Lauren is a college student at Newhouse University, she loves to dance and help underprivileged kids in her neighborhood.
Hart is the quiet and broody baseball player at Newhouse, with the goal of being drafted after college. He also had a rough childhood of being picked on, which is why he’s so quiet. He isn’t here for love, that is until he sees Lauren.
Hart and Lauren are in the same journalism class, they get partnered together for an assignment. Not only do they have to work together, they also have to write about each other. From barely speaking, to finding their own language (and Hart whispering to Lauren in Spanish 🥵) these two find comfort, love and a sense of belonging with each other.
This book was so cute, with the perfect amount of spice. I laughed and I cried, it left me with a warm and cozy feeling. I highly recommend this book ❤️
“What do you want to be, cariño?”
“I want to be more to you.”
“And if you are more to me, than what am I to you?”
“Home. You’re my home, James.”
“You’re where I belong.”
Easy Out by Ginger Walls
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I love a sports romance and found family 🫠
Lauren is quiet, she’s had a rough life that she doesn’t like to talk about. Sydney is her best friend and still doesn’t know much about Lauren’s past. Lauren is a college student at Newhouse University, she loves to dance and help underprivileged kids in her neighborhood.
Hart is the quiet and broody baseball player at Newhouse, with the goal of being drafted after college. He also had a rough childhood of being picked on, which is why he’s so quiet. He isn’t here for love, that is until he sees Lauren.
Hart and Lauren are in the same journalism class, they get partnered together for an assignment. Not only do they have to work together, they also have to write about each other. From barely speaking, to finding their own language (and Hart whispering to Lauren in Spanish 🥵) these two find comfort, love and a sense of belonging with each other.
This book was so cute, with the perfect amount of spice. I laughed and I cried, it left me with a warm and cozy feeling. I highly recommend this book ❤️
“What do you want to be, cariño?”
“I want to be more to you.”
“And if you are more to me, than what am I to you?”
“Home. You’re my home, James.”
“You’re where I belong.”
January 22, 2024
I got the absolute honor to read this before anyone else. This author is absolutely amazing. I am glad she chose me to read it and help smooth out edges. I will absolutely be reading other books she writes. Now on to the book itself.
4.5/5
Going in, I knew that the MMC was of Spanish decent. I love how the author incorporated Spanish throughout the novel and didn't shy away from the culture. Reading how James acted with his mother, Sylvie, reminded me so much of spending time with my grandmother in Mexico in the kitchen. The cooking, the advice, and the warmth. The author really captured the feeling of home and warmth well. I have to say I adore James as a person. He made mistakes but owned up to it. He didn't disrespect Lauren, nor did he dismiss her feelings. That is huge in romance novels. I see way too many male characters acting like jerks to their ladies.
I can't say enough good things about Lauren either. She is so sweet and kind and selfless. She accepted the quiet with James. She didn't force him to speak when he wasn't comfortable. Instead, she let the relationship progress naturally. She allowed him the time to get comfortable with her and didn't push him to open up. James also gave Lauren time to open up as well.
There was a bit of drama, but not between Lauren and James, which is so refreshing! Lauren's reactions to finding out about her family are consistent with how i expected her to react. She was angry, hurt, and felt so alone. She didn't wallow in it and communicated her pain with James. She didn't lash out at him, but she told him how devastated and hurt she was. He was so patient with her. Letting her vent and comforting her the best he could.
My only issue was the inner voices of the characters. It felt like they spoke so much inside their own heads instead of to each other. It took a while for the relationship to progress, or it felt like a while because of how much time was spent on their inner thoughts. I truly enjoyed the story and can't wait to read the finished product ❤️
4.5/5
Going in, I knew that the MMC was of Spanish decent. I love how the author incorporated Spanish throughout the novel and didn't shy away from the culture. Reading how James acted with his mother, Sylvie, reminded me so much of spending time with my grandmother in Mexico in the kitchen. The cooking, the advice, and the warmth. The author really captured the feeling of home and warmth well. I have to say I adore James as a person. He made mistakes but owned up to it. He didn't disrespect Lauren, nor did he dismiss her feelings. That is huge in romance novels. I see way too many male characters acting like jerks to their ladies.
I can't say enough good things about Lauren either. She is so sweet and kind and selfless. She accepted the quiet with James. She didn't force him to speak when he wasn't comfortable. Instead, she let the relationship progress naturally. She allowed him the time to get comfortable with her and didn't push him to open up. James also gave Lauren time to open up as well.
There was a bit of drama, but not between Lauren and James, which is so refreshing! Lauren's reactions to finding out about her family are consistent with how i expected her to react. She was angry, hurt, and felt so alone. She didn't wallow in it and communicated her pain with James. She didn't lash out at him, but she told him how devastated and hurt she was. He was so patient with her. Letting her vent and comforting her the best he could.
My only issue was the inner voices of the characters. It felt like they spoke so much inside their own heads instead of to each other. It took a while for the relationship to progress, or it felt like a while because of how much time was spent on their inner thoughts. I truly enjoyed the story and can't wait to read the finished product ❤️
February 2, 2024
OMG! So this is my first sports romance book. And I fell in love with it!!! The storyline was amazing! The characters Lauren and Hart are amazing. The chemistry they have is great! From them both being shy and closed off to their pasts that they discover they needed each other to break out of that shell and open up to one another.
This book gave me big Step Up vibes, from Lauren being a dancer and helping the kids in the community.
I am giving this book 5 stars, and I will most definitely be reading more of these books!
This book gave me big Step Up vibes, from Lauren being a dancer and helping the kids in the community.
I am giving this book 5 stars, and I will most definitely be reading more of these books!
February 4, 2024
I had the pleasure of this book being my first ARC! It was absolutely amazing. I couldn’t have asked for a better book than this one. I loved every second of it! Very quickly you fall in love with the storyline and the characters. Easy Out is highly recommended! ❤️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 28, 2024
There is something special about a book that surprises you and stays with you after you’re done reading.
This is one of those books.
Easy Out is a tale of finding love after loss, finding your family and finding yourself. This is a tale of redemption, of speaking up, of finding love. This is a tale of sorrow and joy.
It is beautiful.
James and Lauren’s journey to one another was not what I was expecting, in the best of ways. I really found myself falling in love with this story.
I really enjoyed the interracial relationship aspect and the lengths that they all went through to welcome one another. As a white woman married to an Hispanic man, I really loved the fact that Lauren took it upon herself to learn Spanish. It was a really wholesome tidbit that I relate to.
This is one of those books.
Easy Out is a tale of finding love after loss, finding your family and finding yourself. This is a tale of redemption, of speaking up, of finding love. This is a tale of sorrow and joy.
It is beautiful.
James and Lauren’s journey to one another was not what I was expecting, in the best of ways. I really found myself falling in love with this story.
I really enjoyed the interracial relationship aspect and the lengths that they all went through to welcome one another. As a white woman married to an Hispanic man, I really loved the fact that Lauren took it upon herself to learn Spanish. It was a really wholesome tidbit that I relate to.
February 28, 2024
3/5 ⭐️ 2.5/5 🌶️
— Easy Out follows Hart, a broody star baseball player, and Lauren, a quiet dancer, in the first book of the Newhouse University series.
— a few things i didn’t like: Hart calling Lauren “bruja pequeña” (little witch) regardless of the context, it kind of gave me the ick; a lot of characters are introduced and they were hard to follow; where there is dialogue, the writing is hard to keep track of who is speaking; i wasn’t full invested until about 60% in.
— a few things i loved: Hart speaking to Lauren in Spanish, seeing Lauren care so much for her people, their growth individually & as a couple.
— i didn’t 100% vibe with the writing style and i wasn’t expecting the story to be as intense as it was. but i would recommend this if you enjoy slow burn, ice queen FMC x broody MMC, dual v!rgins, no third act breakup, & found family!
i was sent this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. thank you to Ginger for allowing me to be one of your first readers for your new series! 🤍
— Easy Out follows Hart, a broody star baseball player, and Lauren, a quiet dancer, in the first book of the Newhouse University series.
— a few things i didn’t like: Hart calling Lauren “bruja pequeña” (little witch) regardless of the context, it kind of gave me the ick; a lot of characters are introduced and they were hard to follow; where there is dialogue, the writing is hard to keep track of who is speaking; i wasn’t full invested until about 60% in.
— a few things i loved: Hart speaking to Lauren in Spanish, seeing Lauren care so much for her people, their growth individually & as a couple.
— i didn’t 100% vibe with the writing style and i wasn’t expecting the story to be as intense as it was. but i would recommend this if you enjoy slow burn, ice queen FMC x broody MMC, dual v!rgins, no third act breakup, & found family!
i was sent this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. thank you to Ginger for allowing me to be one of your first readers for your new series! 🤍
December 6, 2024
I really enjoyed Lauren and Hart's stories, both as a couple and their individual stories. Lauren's really just broke my heart and until some dialogue between Hart and Enzo later in the book, I did NOT see the twist coming. Like, for real, what are the chances?! Crazy. Anyways, I just loved the caretaker in Lauren. She had to grow up quickly and work for what she had but she did it. And she still took the time to put others first. Her relationship with Manny and Carlos just warmed my cold, little heart and had me sobbing.
And Hart. I love the "only soft for them" types of guys and Hart is so that person. I enjoyed watching him learn to open up to Lauren. I loved how he just instinctually knew that Lauren could and would take care of herself but also knew the exact times she needed him. It reminded me of my husband who knows I will damn well do whatever I want but also knows just when I need him to step in and support me.
And I would be remiss to not mention the friend group. I read Strike Zone before I read this and, I'm going to be honest, disco cowboy Wyatt is my main man. I love him. So getting the glimpses of him in this book just made my life. And his subtle drop in the epilogue had me ROLLING! Only Wyatt. It was great seeing the foundation for Sydney and Koa being laid too. Love me a sibling's best friend trope.
I read this on audio, and while it seems like it took me a long time, it wasn't because I didn't enjoy the narration. I get most of my audio time in at work and my work load in November just didn't cooperate with lots of listening time unfortunately. That being said, I enjoyed both narrators. Heather Stonewell was fantastic as Lauren. She did a great job differentiating the characters as she spoke. And Raphael Dearmiro did great as Hart. My only downfall with the audio vs. an e-copy was that Hart speaks in Spanish at times and, as I do not, those parts obviously got lost in translation (where my Kindle would translate). I didn't put too much thought in to it though. I just assumed Hart was being either swoony or dirty depending on the scene's context ;)
Overall definitely recommend. It's a great start to the Newhouse series and coming up next is my main man Wyatt so, like, you should definitely read this and then dive right in to Wyatt and Wren!
And Hart. I love the "only soft for them" types of guys and Hart is so that person. I enjoyed watching him learn to open up to Lauren. I loved how he just instinctually knew that Lauren could and would take care of herself but also knew the exact times she needed him. It reminded me of my husband who knows I will damn well do whatever I want but also knows just when I need him to step in and support me.
And I would be remiss to not mention the friend group. I read Strike Zone before I read this and, I'm going to be honest, disco cowboy Wyatt is my main man. I love him. So getting the glimpses of him in this book just made my life. And his subtle drop in the epilogue had me ROLLING! Only Wyatt. It was great seeing the foundation for Sydney and Koa being laid too. Love me a sibling's best friend trope.
I read this on audio, and while it seems like it took me a long time, it wasn't because I didn't enjoy the narration. I get most of my audio time in at work and my work load in November just didn't cooperate with lots of listening time unfortunately. That being said, I enjoyed both narrators. Heather Stonewell was fantastic as Lauren. She did a great job differentiating the characters as she spoke. And Raphael Dearmiro did great as Hart. My only downfall with the audio vs. an e-copy was that Hart speaks in Spanish at times and, as I do not, those parts obviously got lost in translation (where my Kindle would translate). I didn't put too much thought in to it though. I just assumed Hart was being either swoony or dirty depending on the scene's context ;)
Overall definitely recommend. It's a great start to the Newhouse series and coming up next is my main man Wyatt so, like, you should definitely read this and then dive right in to Wyatt and Wren!
August 18, 2024
- He fell first and harder
- College Romance
- Partners in school
- Baseball player // dancer
- Dual V
Truly loved this book. Usually I feel college romances are a little immature for my taste, but these to impressed me. The way they both come of as the quiet ones, but they both have experiences who has shaped them, and due to that, they are good people with right priorities.
26% in and he talks about her with his parents!!
And how he gets his friends to help him, how he should text her to impress her, so cute. Loved their friends (but they were more the typical college people who is busy partying and hooking up, something I’m tired of reading).
They are assigned to a paper together in journalism class, and they have to write about each other. But he is so cute, “You can tell me anything, Lauren. I want to get to know you better. Paper or no paper.”
Safe:
- Both are V. Not even been kissed.
- Girls flirt with him, but he dislikes give them anything, just steps away. Never been interested in anything than baseball, until fmc.
And the plot in this book, you could feel it coming, but still made the book so good.
‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
Major spoiler:
- I had mixed feelings about her (“long lost”) father, how he treated his (now)wife and Lauren’s mother all those years ago, saying he loves her mother but slept with his wife and started a family with her, even when he found out he also had a daughter. Not fair for either of the women. I felt like she forgave him easily, but she wanted a father and have a bond with her brothers, so I can see how that was what she had to focus on.
- College Romance
- Partners in school
- Baseball player // dancer
- Dual V
Truly loved this book. Usually I feel college romances are a little immature for my taste, but these to impressed me. The way they both come of as the quiet ones, but they both have experiences who has shaped them, and due to that, they are good people with right priorities.
26% in and he talks about her with his parents!!
And how he gets his friends to help him, how he should text her to impress her, so cute. Loved their friends (but they were more the typical college people who is busy partying and hooking up, something I’m tired of reading).
They are assigned to a paper together in journalism class, and they have to write about each other. But he is so cute, “You can tell me anything, Lauren. I want to get to know you better. Paper or no paper.”
Safe:
- Both are V. Not even been kissed.
- Girls flirt with him, but he dislikes give them anything, just steps away. Never been interested in anything than baseball, until fmc.
And the plot in this book, you could feel it coming, but still made the book so good.
‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️
Major spoiler:
- I had mixed feelings about her (“long lost”) father, how he treated his (now)wife and Lauren’s mother all those years ago, saying he loves her mother but slept with his wife and started a family with her, even when he found out he also had a daughter. Not fair for either of the women. I felt like she forgave him easily, but she wanted a father and have a bond with her brothers, so I can see how that was what she had to focus on.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2024
4.5⭐️ but definitely have to round it up!
I really liked Easy Out! I wasn’t sure what to make of it when I started the book, but pretty early on I was invested!! Lauren and Hart were all heart and I absolutely loved them.
I enjoyed reading about the quieter characters. I like the boisterous, center of attention characters, too, but I definitely relate to being the quiet observer and having more of my personality come out when I’m comfortable. It was so sweet seeing the two of them get more comfortable with one another and open up.
Lauren was a gem. I absolutely loved her backstory and how it shaped her into who she was. She was such a caring individual who used her limited resources to make everyone’s lives better. And Hart was there for her, proving he wasn’t going to leave like she was used to. I loved Hart showing up time and time again for Lauren, but I wish he had a little more personality outside of her.
Even so, I had such a great time reading Easy Out. I did not want to put it down for a second, enjoying being in my feels and rooting for the quieter ones with big hearts. So excited for the next one to see what else happens in this friend group!
I really liked Easy Out! I wasn’t sure what to make of it when I started the book, but pretty early on I was invested!! Lauren and Hart were all heart and I absolutely loved them.
I enjoyed reading about the quieter characters. I like the boisterous, center of attention characters, too, but I definitely relate to being the quiet observer and having more of my personality come out when I’m comfortable. It was so sweet seeing the two of them get more comfortable with one another and open up.
Lauren was a gem. I absolutely loved her backstory and how it shaped her into who she was. She was such a caring individual who used her limited resources to make everyone’s lives better. And Hart was there for her, proving he wasn’t going to leave like she was used to. I loved Hart showing up time and time again for Lauren, but I wish he had a little more personality outside of her.
Even so, I had such a great time reading Easy Out. I did not want to put it down for a second, enjoying being in my feels and rooting for the quieter ones with big hearts. So excited for the next one to see what else happens in this friend group!
February 13, 2025
4.5/5
Once I started to read Easy Out I couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed reading about Hart and Lauren love story. At first both characters were closed off with each other but once they got assigned to a project where they had to get to know each other they slowly started to open up. Hart who is a baseball player comes off as tough and closed off but underneath he has a carrying side. Lauren who is a dancer is independent, strong and a huge heart. She’s naturally protective especially with the kids she teaches to dance. Throughout the book the relationship was filled with tension and heartwarming moments💞 I loved the relationship between Lauren, manny, & Carlos. The plot with Lauren dad I didn’t see that coming. Overall I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to start the second book 🩵
Tropes:
🩵Grumpy x Sunshine
⚾️College romance
🩵Found Family
⚾️Forced Proximity
🩵Slow Burn
⚾️ Baseball player x Dancer
Once I started to read Easy Out I couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed reading about Hart and Lauren love story. At first both characters were closed off with each other but once they got assigned to a project where they had to get to know each other they slowly started to open up. Hart who is a baseball player comes off as tough and closed off but underneath he has a carrying side. Lauren who is a dancer is independent, strong and a huge heart. She’s naturally protective especially with the kids she teaches to dance. Throughout the book the relationship was filled with tension and heartwarming moments💞 I loved the relationship between Lauren, manny, & Carlos. The plot with Lauren dad I didn’t see that coming. Overall I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to start the second book 🩵
Tropes:
🩵Grumpy x Sunshine
⚾️College romance
🩵Found Family
⚾️Forced Proximity
🩵Slow Burn
⚾️ Baseball player x Dancer
April 10, 2024
The is book is quite possibly one of the best books I have ever read.
Both main characters are not ones who share their thoughts with many people and Hart only talks to Lauren, and these two fall in love together for the first time, while Hart teases that she’s bewitched him. They have their first kiss together and are each others first significant other at 22.
This quote will have you busting down doors to read about the most amazing MMC on the planet:
“You really love me too?”
“Not too, cariño. I love you period. There is no prerequisite of you loving me. If you ever stop, I will still love the fuck out of you.”
Lauren and James forever 💕
This is my 150th book of 2024 and I was engaged the entire time, and the fact there was no 3rd act breakup? Give me MORE brujita 🧙🏻♀️
Wyatt and Wren?? 🤪👀
Both main characters are not ones who share their thoughts with many people and Hart only talks to Lauren, and these two fall in love together for the first time, while Hart teases that she’s bewitched him. They have their first kiss together and are each others first significant other at 22.
This quote will have you busting down doors to read about the most amazing MMC on the planet:
“You really love me too?”
“Not too, cariño. I love you period. There is no prerequisite of you loving me. If you ever stop, I will still love the fuck out of you.”
Lauren and James forever 💕
This is my 150th book of 2024 and I was engaged the entire time, and the fact there was no 3rd act breakup? Give me MORE brujita 🧙🏻♀️
Wyatt and Wren?? 🤪👀
August 24, 2024
5 ⭐️
THIS BOOK. It gave me all the feels. Ginger Walls has easily become one of my favorite authors with this series. I will absolutely be counting down the days until we get Sydney and Koa’s book.
Lauren and Hart are opposite in many ways but connect on such a level you would never know it. Lauren is at Newhouse on scholarship and spends all her time at school, working, or helping out others. Hart is the quiet, broody, star baseball player everyone wants to get with. They are paired up in one of their classes and forced to get to know each other. Expect the “forced” doesn’t last for long.
Y’all I ate this book up. Lauren is one of my all time fav FMC’s. She’s SO strong. Hart is SO precious and I relate to him on such a deep level. Ginger got me with the 3rd act. 😂🖤 I did not see it coming but I loved every minute of it. And don’t get me started on the epilogue. I cried actual tears because I was so happy.
THIS BOOK. It gave me all the feels. Ginger Walls has easily become one of my favorite authors with this series. I will absolutely be counting down the days until we get Sydney and Koa’s book.
Lauren and Hart are opposite in many ways but connect on such a level you would never know it. Lauren is at Newhouse on scholarship and spends all her time at school, working, or helping out others. Hart is the quiet, broody, star baseball player everyone wants to get with. They are paired up in one of their classes and forced to get to know each other. Expect the “forced” doesn’t last for long.
Y’all I ate this book up. Lauren is one of my all time fav FMC’s. She’s SO strong. Hart is SO precious and I relate to him on such a deep level. Ginger got me with the 3rd act. 😂🖤 I did not see it coming but I loved every minute of it. And don’t get me started on the epilogue. I cried actual tears because I was so happy.
January 13, 2025
Oh my gosh. I needed this book in my life so bad. James Hart is a dream!!! He falls first, a self proclaimed Mamas boy who speaks to no one!!! Well except her. She has a past that she doesn’t share with anyone!!! Until him. It made me laugh and stay up way too late reading it when I should have been sleeping. I will be thinking about this one for a long time!!! Suggesting it to all my book besties!!! World building was great. Side characters are fantastic. I need more Newhouse University in my life.
March 6, 2024
Received as an ARC in return for my honest review.
⚾️ College baseball player x dancer
🩵 Friends to lovers
⚾️ Virgin FMC and MMC
🩵 Spanish speaking MMC
⚾️ He falls first
🩵 Found family
⚾️ Interracial/Multicultural relationship
🩵 No third act break up (thank God 🙌🏻)
This was my first book by Ginger and I absolutely loved it. It was the ideal college sports romance with such sweet moments intermingled with spice *chefs kiss*
Hart will be your next book boyfriend I can assure you of that. It was interesting to see a contemporary romance where both main characters are shy and don’t talk much opposed to one being super popular and outgoing. I was worried this would lead to major communication issues, which I hate, but thankfully these two worked so well together.
The writing style was right up my street with great character development, brilliant world and so many side characters to love too. I can’t wait to see if they get their own stories after this one.
⚾️ College baseball player x dancer
🩵 Friends to lovers
⚾️ Virgin FMC and MMC
🩵 Spanish speaking MMC
⚾️ He falls first
🩵 Found family
⚾️ Interracial/Multicultural relationship
🩵 No third act break up (thank God 🙌🏻)
This was my first book by Ginger and I absolutely loved it. It was the ideal college sports romance with such sweet moments intermingled with spice *chefs kiss*
Hart will be your next book boyfriend I can assure you of that. It was interesting to see a contemporary romance where both main characters are shy and don’t talk much opposed to one being super popular and outgoing. I was worried this would lead to major communication issues, which I hate, but thankfully these two worked so well together.
The writing style was right up my street with great character development, brilliant world and so many side characters to love too. I can’t wait to see if they get their own stories after this one.
August 7, 2024
What a book. I honestly loved it. Lauren and Hart were such an amazing couple. Two quiet souls who connected on a level I haven’t read in a while.
Their love story was anything but simple and it was a journey but what a love story it was. Throughly enjoyed it.
Their love story was anything but simple and it was a journey but what a love story it was. Throughly enjoyed it.
December 20, 2024
this has been on my list for awhile and is my first book by this author. really enjoyed!! took a star off bc it was a little too slow for my liking.
it was also just kind of weird that her being in dance battles was a big deal in the very beginning and then never mentioned again…
it was also just kind of weird that her being in dance battles was a big deal in the very beginning and then never mentioned again…
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