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Franklin U 2 #1
The Hookup Mix-up
Perry
I moved to San Luco to get to know my brother, and so far, it’s been great. Working as a bartender at Shenanigans, a bar close to Franklin University, there are beautiful men and women everywhere. When a hot guy falls into my arms at a party, I’m down for some naughty fun. Until I realize he’s way too drunk for anything to happen. Thankfully, we agree to meet up the next day.
One near-kiss later, I discover Theo has no idea I’ve been hitting on him. He thinks we’re hanging out as buddies, and to my great regret, says he’s straight. How did I misread this situation when I thought he was giving me all the right signals?
Theo
Perry thinks I’m a nine … a nine! Sure, I’m not into dudes, but it’s flattering that someone as attractive as him thinks I’m hot. Despite the confusion, Perry and I click and agree to keep hanging out. The more time I spend with him, the more I realize there’s a part of myself I’ve been ignoring. One that’s super bi and wants Perry as more than a friend.
Trying to study with him makes things hard for me…below the belt. Unfortunately, his abandonment issues have him open to a fling and nothing more, while I’m catching feelings in a big way. Can I be satisfied with a hookup? Or should I find a way to convince him to take a chance on making this something real?
I moved to San Luco to get to know my brother, and so far, it’s been great. Working as a bartender at Shenanigans, a bar close to Franklin University, there are beautiful men and women everywhere. When a hot guy falls into my arms at a party, I’m down for some naughty fun. Until I realize he’s way too drunk for anything to happen. Thankfully, we agree to meet up the next day.
One near-kiss later, I discover Theo has no idea I’ve been hitting on him. He thinks we’re hanging out as buddies, and to my great regret, says he’s straight. How did I misread this situation when I thought he was giving me all the right signals?
Theo
Perry thinks I’m a nine … a nine! Sure, I’m not into dudes, but it’s flattering that someone as attractive as him thinks I’m hot. Despite the confusion, Perry and I click and agree to keep hanging out. The more time I spend with him, the more I realize there’s a part of myself I’ve been ignoring. One that’s super bi and wants Perry as more than a friend.
Trying to study with him makes things hard for me…below the belt. Unfortunately, his abandonment issues have him open to a fling and nothing more, while I’m catching feelings in a big way. Can I be satisfied with a hookup? Or should I find a way to convince him to take a chance on making this something real?
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2024
844 people are currently reading
2820 people want to read
About the author
Riley Hart
116 books7,104 followersRiley Hart is the girl who wears her heart on her sleeve. She's a hopeless romantic. A lover of sexy stories, passionate men, and writing about all the trouble they can get into together. If she's not writing, you'll probably find her reading.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
Riley lives in California with her awesome family, who she is thankful for everyday.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 666 reviews
October 2, 2024
2.5 Stars✨
Nvm. Now I remember why I stopped reading these types of books. They all feel the same, just recycled with different titles and characters. I kept hoping for something fresh, but it fell into the same predictable patterns. 😩 Thank you guys tho for all the recs. I love you guys so much!! 🥹❤️🔥✨
___________
Pre-Read
Guys, I need help!!! I want to go back to reading old-school MM romances. Am talking Eden Finley, Saxon James, and Brooke Blaine. If you have any recommendations, please send them my way!! 🙏🏼🙏🏼😘
Nvm. Now I remember why I stopped reading these types of books. They all feel the same, just recycled with different titles and characters. I kept hoping for something fresh, but it fell into the same predictable patterns. 😩 Thank you guys tho for all the recs. I love you guys so much!! 🥹❤️🔥✨
___________
Pre-Read
Guys, I need help!!! I want to go back to reading old-school MM romances. Am talking Eden Finley, Saxon James, and Brooke Blaine. If you have any recommendations, please send them my way!! 🙏🏼🙏🏼😘
June 14, 2024
4.5 Stars
The Hookup Mix-up was EXACTLY the feel-good M/M romance I needed this week.
Although I enjoyed the first of the multi-author Franklin U series, I wouldn’t say I held all that high an expectation on this new season—for no reason in particular, I simply wasn’t expecting much.
However, this first release by Riley Hart took me by surprise in the best ways and proved to be ALL THE THINGS I look for in my M/M new adult reads.
The MCs were sweet and charming, the sexual exploration/bi-awakening was on-point, the academic struggles were ridiculously relatable, and the unexpected romance of it all was equal parts hot, tender, and simply heartwarming.
Honestly, the fact that I devoured this entire book in under 24-hours, when most of my recent books have taken me quadruple that time to read, just goes to show how entertained and invested I was by this story.
I absolutely adored all of the characters. Which, really, went a hell of a long way in holding and elevating my enjoyment. If you like golden retriever-type heroes, who brighten the pages with their kindness, joy, and sweetness, then MC Theo will surely win your heart in a swift and unwavering sort of way, as he won MC Perry’s heart, a previous loner and relationship-avoider, if there ever was one.
The support cast took this from decent to pretty damn lovely, with plenty of friends and family to provide fun banter and unwavering support for our heroes as they fell in love. It was also wonderful to see a few familiar faces from Franklin U books of old, namely Perry’s half-brother Ty and his grumpy-cat boyfriend Brax (MC's of Playing Games), who feature prominently throughout the story, much to my delight.
Simply put, this story made me happy, etching what felt like a permanent smile on my face for the entirety of the story. It’s my idea of the perfect heart-happy comfort-read so I truly have zero complaints.
Needless to say, Franklin U series 2 has gotten off to a REALLY GOOD start for me and I look forward to reading what the rest of the authors have in store for the young men of Franklin U in the weeks to come. <3
The Hookup Mix-up was EXACTLY the feel-good M/M romance I needed this week.
Although I enjoyed the first of the multi-author Franklin U series, I wouldn’t say I held all that high an expectation on this new season—for no reason in particular, I simply wasn’t expecting much.
However, this first release by Riley Hart took me by surprise in the best ways and proved to be ALL THE THINGS I look for in my M/M new adult reads.
The MCs were sweet and charming, the sexual exploration/bi-awakening was on-point, the academic struggles were ridiculously relatable, and the unexpected romance of it all was equal parts hot, tender, and simply heartwarming.
Honestly, the fact that I devoured this entire book in under 24-hours, when most of my recent books have taken me quadruple that time to read, just goes to show how entertained and invested I was by this story.
I absolutely adored all of the characters. Which, really, went a hell of a long way in holding and elevating my enjoyment. If you like golden retriever-type heroes, who brighten the pages with their kindness, joy, and sweetness, then MC Theo will surely win your heart in a swift and unwavering sort of way, as he won MC Perry’s heart, a previous loner and relationship-avoider, if there ever was one.
The support cast took this from decent to pretty damn lovely, with plenty of friends and family to provide fun banter and unwavering support for our heroes as they fell in love. It was also wonderful to see a few familiar faces from Franklin U books of old, namely Perry’s half-brother Ty and his grumpy-cat boyfriend Brax (MC's of Playing Games), who feature prominently throughout the story, much to my delight.
Simply put, this story made me happy, etching what felt like a permanent smile on my face for the entirety of the story. It’s my idea of the perfect heart-happy comfort-read so I truly have zero complaints.
Needless to say, Franklin U series 2 has gotten off to a REALLY GOOD start for me and I look forward to reading what the rest of the authors have in store for the young men of Franklin U in the weeks to come. <3
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August 17, 2025
|| 2.0 stars ||
At first, this was absolutely adorable and super endearing, but it became so boring once they gave in to their feelings and started hooking up.
All the tension and build-up came to its climax before even the halfway mark was hit, and everything that happened afterwards was just so lacklustre and meh. There was zero angst and the fluff really became too much. It also became way too smutty for my tastes.
Riley Hart books:
Broken Pieces - 3.5 stars
Finding Finley - 1.5 stars
‘Havenwood’ series - var. ratings
‘Stumbling into Love’ series - var. ratings
‘Atlanta Lightning’ series - var. ratings
Boyfriend Goals - 3.5 stars
Rookie Move - 4.0 stars
Playing Games - 4.0 star
The Hookup Mix-up - 2.0 stars
At first, this was absolutely adorable and super endearing, but it became so boring once they gave in to their feelings and started hooking up.
All the tension and build-up came to its climax before even the halfway mark was hit, and everything that happened afterwards was just so lacklustre and meh. There was zero angst and the fluff really became too much. It also became way too smutty for my tastes.
Riley Hart books:
Broken Pieces - 3.5 stars
Finding Finley - 1.5 stars
‘Havenwood’ series - var. ratings
‘Stumbling into Love’ series - var. ratings
‘Atlanta Lightning’ series - var. ratings
Boyfriend Goals - 3.5 stars
Rookie Move - 4.0 stars
Playing Games - 4.0 star
The Hookup Mix-up - 2.0 stars
October 1, 2024
Fazia tempo que não lia melação com universitários 🤣Foi legal ter uma história com o irmão do Ty ( além de eu ter gostado de mais momentos de Ty e Brax 🤩). Perry e Theo foi um casal fofo.
May 24, 2024
Aww... Perry and They are so darn cute. I could not stop smiling and laughing while reading their sweet romance that is built on one of the silliest misunderstandings ever. Together Perry and Theo are wonderful, they are patient, caring, and utterly swoon-worthy, so much so that I was saddened when their story finished.
The Hookup Mix-up is a fantastic title that perfectly describes the misunderstanding between Perry and Theo. Perry is under the impression they are hooking up while Theo thinks they are simply hanging out. This classic understanding quickly moves into a great friendship that blossoms into something more.
Together these two are so perfect for one another. Theo is clueless about his effect on others with his effortlessly positive and friendly demeanor, which softens and relaxes all of Perry's walls and defenses. They share an incredible bond that I loved to see grow throughout their story.
I loved being back in this universe and look forward to the next one!!!
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
The Hookup Mix-up is a fantastic title that perfectly describes the misunderstanding between Perry and Theo. Perry is under the impression they are hooking up while Theo thinks they are simply hanging out. This classic understanding quickly moves into a great friendship that blossoms into something more.
Together these two are so perfect for one another. Theo is clueless about his effect on others with his effortlessly positive and friendly demeanor, which softens and relaxes all of Perry's walls and defenses. They share an incredible bond that I loved to see grow throughout their story.
I loved being back in this universe and look forward to the next one!!!
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
June 30, 2024
3.5*** stars
audio: 5+ stars
I looooved listening to JF Harding and I must say that sadly enough it was my only real incentive with this book. I’m a bit disappointed, tbh.
It was sweet and kinda wholesome but it was also kinda boring, forgettable and nothing really exciting was happening. I loved that Ty’s little brother was our new mc and him and Brax’s cameos, tho.
But Theo being so damn oblivious about Perry flirting with him and totally not getting it was kinda hilarious.
💀 *lmao
************
Franklin U entries by Riley Hart
S1 - Playing Games - 4.5 stars
S2 - The Hookup Mix-Up - 3.5 stars
--- pre-release note ---
Oooooh, helloooo! A Franklin U season two? Yes, please.
Let's hope for some treasures!!
audio: 5+ stars
I looooved listening to JF Harding and I must say that sadly enough it was my only real incentive with this book. I’m a bit disappointed, tbh.
It was sweet and kinda wholesome but it was also kinda boring, forgettable and nothing really exciting was happening. I loved that Ty’s little brother was our new mc and him and Brax’s cameos, tho.
But Theo being so damn oblivious about Perry flirting with him and totally not getting it was kinda hilarious.
Stop poking at my insides.” He smirks.
“Believe me, if I was poking at your insides, you’d know. Hopefully, I’ll get to, though.”
I can’t deny that’s a weird way to say it, but maybe Perry just really wants me to be able to talk to him. He’s probably just a nice guy like that, and will keep poking to get me to open up. “Maybe I’ll let you one day.”
💀 *lmao
************
Franklin U entries by Riley Hart
S1 - Playing Games - 4.5 stars
S2 - The Hookup Mix-Up - 3.5 stars
--- pre-release note ---
Oooooh, helloooo! A Franklin U season two? Yes, please.
Let's hope for some treasures!!
June 10, 2024
a romance book that reads like it’s just going thru the motions🥱 theo was the most adorable mf ever tho🥺
June 20, 2024
You know the books that are so sweet, you actually feel the sticky goo oozing out of your kindle?
This is it. It’s so very sweet and absolutely free of any drama, it should come with a warning label. It’s the story of Perry (Ty’s brother - we met him briefly in one of the FU books). Perry is openly bisexual, and he works as a bartender at Shenanigans, THE bar close to the FU campus that is kind of a common denominator in the FU books.
His counterpart is Theo, the epitome of a clueless Golden Retriever. It’s all very insta, and there’s no freaking out on Theo’s part when it comes to his bi awakening, or on Perry’s part when it comes to falling in love. It’s hot, even if the progression is pretty standard (frotting, jerking off, bjs - you know the drill 😬)
Theo is very cute though, and he’s the main reason I’m rounding it up from 3.5 to 4 stars. It’s not mind blowing, but it’s… sweet, and it will put you in a better mood if you’re feeling grumpy.
The bookish equivalent of chocolate ice cream with chunks of cookie dough, caramel sauce, rainbow sprinkles and a scoop of whipped cream.
This is it. It’s so very sweet and absolutely free of any drama, it should come with a warning label. It’s the story of Perry (Ty’s brother - we met him briefly in one of the FU books). Perry is openly bisexual, and he works as a bartender at Shenanigans, THE bar close to the FU campus that is kind of a common denominator in the FU books.
His counterpart is Theo, the epitome of a clueless Golden Retriever. It’s all very insta, and there’s no freaking out on Theo’s part when it comes to his bi awakening, or on Perry’s part when it comes to falling in love. It’s hot, even if the progression is pretty standard (frotting, jerking off, bjs - you know the drill 😬)
Theo is very cute though, and he’s the main reason I’m rounding it up from 3.5 to 4 stars. It’s not mind blowing, but it’s… sweet, and it will put you in a better mood if you’re feeling grumpy.
The bookish equivalent of chocolate ice cream with chunks of cookie dough, caramel sauce, rainbow sprinkles and a scoop of whipped cream.
November 12, 2025
I'm usually hit or miss with Riley Hart, but The Hookup Mix-up was so sweet. Such a nice little audiobook listen that I didn't want to put down.
College sporty friends-to-lovers romances don't always work for me, but add in some sexuality discovery and my interest is piqued. For a sexuality discovery story, the book was very low angst. It was a sweet slide into sexual and emotional realizations, even with their own personal issues.
The narrator did a fantastic job with both voices, and it was a supremely enjoyable listen. My only wish was that the "puppy" nickname was taken a bit further even... I feel like some light dom/sub stuff would have hit the spot.
goodreads|instagram
College sporty friends-to-lovers romances don't always work for me, but add in some sexuality discovery and my interest is piqued. For a sexuality discovery story, the book was very low angst. It was a sweet slide into sexual and emotional realizations, even with their own personal issues.
The narrator did a fantastic job with both voices, and it was a supremely enjoyable listen. My only wish was that the "puppy" nickname was taken a bit further even... I feel like some light dom/sub stuff would have hit the spot.
goodreads|instagram
June 7, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Strangers to friends to fwb to lovers. One thing I love about Riley Hart's books is how she writes relationship development, and this one didn't disappoint. Theo is pure golden retriever energy, he's kind and funny and he's a people pleaser by nature. He struggles with school but he feels like he cannot let down his family. Perry is his 'knight in shining armor', who saves him from a fall at a party. Perry has a few issues with letting people in because of his father abandoning him. But Theo's energy just makes him feel safe around him. After the initial mix up, they become friends because Theo isn't queer... Or is he? Their growing feelings for each other develop over time as they get to know one another. Until they start hooking up, because of course Theo is bi. I loved there was no issue around Theo discovering his sexuality or coming out. Although it was evident to everyone but them lol.
The best part is how supportive they are of each other, how they're there for the other.
It was refreshing to have awesome book parents for once, even Perry's dad makes and effort to repair his relationship with his son.
I haven't read the first FU series, so it was my first time meeting Brax and Ty. Now I can't wait to read about them
Overall another amazing Riley Hart book: low angst, sweet romance, burning hot intimacy and people acting their age.
Strangers to friends to fwb to lovers. One thing I love about Riley Hart's books is how she writes relationship development, and this one didn't disappoint. Theo is pure golden retriever energy, he's kind and funny and he's a people pleaser by nature. He struggles with school but he feels like he cannot let down his family. Perry is his 'knight in shining armor', who saves him from a fall at a party. Perry has a few issues with letting people in because of his father abandoning him. But Theo's energy just makes him feel safe around him. After the initial mix up, they become friends because Theo isn't queer... Or is he? Their growing feelings for each other develop over time as they get to know one another. Until they start hooking up, because of course Theo is bi. I loved there was no issue around Theo discovering his sexuality or coming out. Although it was evident to everyone but them lol.
The best part is how supportive they are of each other, how they're there for the other.
It was refreshing to have awesome book parents for once, even Perry's dad makes and effort to repair his relationship with his son.
I haven't read the first FU series, so it was my first time meeting Brax and Ty. Now I can't wait to read about them
Overall another amazing Riley Hart book: low angst, sweet romance, burning hot intimacy and people acting their age.
May 25, 2024
This is exactly what I needed to read! I've been looking for a fun college book where they act their age and accept their sexuality without a ton of drama, secrecy and inner monologuing and this ticked all the boxes for me.
Perry is emotionally vulnerable and hiding his heart behind a million walls, but slowly learning that he can let some people in. I loved seeing the brotherly relationship between him and Ty solidify as they get to know each other after being separated for most of their lives, and the relationship he has with Daddy Brax is so funny. I also like how Ty and Brax still felt true to their character's - they weren't changed to better fit Perry's story which is something I always worry about in 'sequels' after I loved the character's in their own story.
Theo is absolutely the biggest golden retriever and was so clueless, yet also completely endearing. I absolutely loved how he met Perry and never picked up on how he was so clearly being flirted with!!! I honestly don't think I stopped smiling at all while reading this book and Theo and Perry were ridiculously perfect for each other.
I would have liked to see more in terms of Perry finally making a connection with his father - that part felt a little too convenient and quickly resolved. And I would have liked a little more of Theo figuring out what it was he wanted to do as it was happening, rather than reading about it in the epilogue. Perry got a lot of character growth in the story, but it did feel a little unbalanced with Theo.
This was such a great start to the second season of the FU collabs and I'm so excited to read more of the books, especially the Sadenverse entries!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
Perry is emotionally vulnerable and hiding his heart behind a million walls, but slowly learning that he can let some people in. I loved seeing the brotherly relationship between him and Ty solidify as they get to know each other after being separated for most of their lives, and the relationship he has with Daddy Brax is so funny. I also like how Ty and Brax still felt true to their character's - they weren't changed to better fit Perry's story which is something I always worry about in 'sequels' after I loved the character's in their own story.
Theo is absolutely the biggest golden retriever and was so clueless, yet also completely endearing. I absolutely loved how he met Perry and never picked up on how he was so clearly being flirted with!!! I honestly don't think I stopped smiling at all while reading this book and Theo and Perry were ridiculously perfect for each other.
I would have liked to see more in terms of Perry finally making a connection with his father - that part felt a little too convenient and quickly resolved. And I would have liked a little more of Theo figuring out what it was he wanted to do as it was happening, rather than reading about it in the epilogue. Perry got a lot of character growth in the story, but it did feel a little unbalanced with Theo.
This was such a great start to the second season of the FU collabs and I'm so excited to read more of the books, especially the Sadenverse entries!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
June 9, 2024
probably the cutest thing i’ll ever read in my entire life
August 4, 2025
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
PUPPY?! I love it.
Oblivious golden retriever doesn’t know his new friend was looking to hookup.
I love oblivious MCs, and The Hookup Mix-up was just a super sweet & simple college romance. A light-hearted spicy read that put a smile on my face.
I loved the friends to friends-with-benefits to lovers, two cute boys having fun and finding love, the HOT spice.
It was simple, it was a classic college romance, but I still really enjoyed it and it made me pretty happy, so that’s a win for me.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Queer awakening
- Vers MCs
- Grinding/coming with clothes on
- Frotting
- Rimming
“I swear, Puppy, you’re going to kill me one of these days.”
“Sorry?”
PUPPY?! I love it.
Oblivious golden retriever doesn’t know his new friend was looking to hookup.
I love oblivious MCs, and The Hookup Mix-up was just a super sweet & simple college romance. A light-hearted spicy read that put a smile on my face.
“You’re bisexual.”
“And you said you’re straight.”
“But am I?”
I loved the friends to friends-with-benefits to lovers, two cute boys having fun and finding love, the HOT spice.
It was simple, it was a classic college romance, but I still really enjoyed it and it made me pretty happy, so that’s a win for me.
I never expected a hookup mix-up to be the best thing that ever happened to me, but it was.
CW and NSFW info (spoilers):
- Queer awakening
- Vers MCs
- Grinding/coming with clothes on
- Frotting
- Rimming
June 10, 2024
the story feels very rushed, it felt very insta, the story could've been developed more slowly. overall it was cute
May 29, 2024
Franklin University is back, and The Hook Up Mix-Up reminded me right away of how much I loved this series and how I wasn’t wrong to look forward to it returning this summer. The authors behind FU and FU 2 definitely saw the success that came with the first season of these books and understood the assignment: Take all of that, rewind it back, and build on this universe in an interconnected, tangential way.
Riley Hart decided to build The Hook Up Mix-Up on top of the foundation of her FU book from 2023, Playing Games (the story of Brax and Tyson, who feature heavily in this book). In Playing Games we were introduced to Perry, Tyson’s half-brother, who is one of the MMCs in this book. The other MMC is Theo, a student at Franklin U.
This is your pretty standard bi-awakening, friends-to-bed buddies-to-lovers plot, but that simply doesn’t matter one bit, no matter how much I’m almost always down to read those two tropes combined, because the thing that makes this book worth reading is THEO.
Can I just say Theo is so cute and sweet I wanted to reach into the book, drag him out, and adopt him? I was like that gif of Kristin Bell fawning over a sloth while reading this book the entire time. I almost spent the entire book wondering how anyone could possibly not fall in love with him (before I remembered not everyone loves a people pleaser and that being a people pleaser isn’t always the healthiest thing for your mental wellbeing).
It’s not like Perry is a slouch. It was funny watching how oblivious to how in his deep in his feels he was long before he actually realized it. The boy was done for long before he knew it and it was absolutely adorable to read.
This book does have its hot and spicy moments, but not as spicy as some other authors’ books in this series might end up being. I didn’t find that upsetting in this instance because I was too busy loving Theo and Perry and their burgeoning relationship. Definitely a stellar start to FU season.
I was provided a copy of this title by the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: 5 Star Review/Book Series/College Romance/Contemporary Romance/Disability Rep/Gay Romance/Kindle Unlimited/LGBTQ Romance/MM Romance/Romance Series/Spice Level 2
Riley Hart decided to build The Hook Up Mix-Up on top of the foundation of her FU book from 2023, Playing Games (the story of Brax and Tyson, who feature heavily in this book). In Playing Games we were introduced to Perry, Tyson’s half-brother, who is one of the MMCs in this book. The other MMC is Theo, a student at Franklin U.
This is your pretty standard bi-awakening, friends-to-bed buddies-to-lovers plot, but that simply doesn’t matter one bit, no matter how much I’m almost always down to read those two tropes combined, because the thing that makes this book worth reading is THEO.
Can I just say Theo is so cute and sweet I wanted to reach into the book, drag him out, and adopt him? I was like that gif of Kristin Bell fawning over a sloth while reading this book the entire time. I almost spent the entire book wondering how anyone could possibly not fall in love with him (before I remembered not everyone loves a people pleaser and that being a people pleaser isn’t always the healthiest thing for your mental wellbeing).
It’s not like Perry is a slouch. It was funny watching how oblivious to how in his deep in his feels he was long before he actually realized it. The boy was done for long before he knew it and it was absolutely adorable to read.
This book does have its hot and spicy moments, but not as spicy as some other authors’ books in this series might end up being. I didn’t find that upsetting in this instance because I was too busy loving Theo and Perry and their burgeoning relationship. Definitely a stellar start to FU season.
I was provided a copy of this title by the author. All thoughts, opinions, views, and ideas expressed herein are mine and mine alone. Thank you.
File Under: 5 Star Review/Book Series/College Romance/Contemporary Romance/Disability Rep/Gay Romance/Kindle Unlimited/LGBTQ Romance/MM Romance/Romance Series/Spice Level 2
September 30, 2025
This one was pure comfort food — soft, funny, sexy, and just so easy to fall into. Theo is the absolute dork of my heart. He’s fresh out of a two-year relationship, the kind of guy who buys flowers, opens doors, plans dinners, does everything “right”… and still gets dumped. Which, okay, hurts, but honestly? Lucky for us, because that heartbreak sets him on the path to Perry.
And Perry — sweet, flirty bartender Perry — walks into this story thinking he’s lined up a hookup. Instead, he gets Theo: drunk, oblivious, and somehow immune to realizing he’s being hit on. Theo is so wonderfully clueless that he takes Perry out on an actual date without even realizing it, all while Perry’s over here thinking, oh, cool, we’re finally going to hook up. The miscommunication of it all is golden.
What made this book sing for me, though, was how their friendship slowly blurs into something more. Perry, with his insecurities and his fear of going deep because of his dad walking out, keeps insisting he’s only in it for fun. But then he has these little epiphanies — like when he realizes that whenever something good happens to Theo, he feels like it happened to him too. That line? That’s the definition of love, right there. It’s quiet, it’s simple, and it floored me.
The family dynamics were a whole extra layer of warmth. Perry’s mom was incredible — the kind of parent you want to hug through the page. On Theo’s side, his parents and sisters added even more sweetness.
And don’t get me wrong — it’s not just soft. The chemistry between Perry and Theo? Hot. The banter? Adorable. He was so excited by being called a nine by Perry even when he thought he is straight 🤭he couldn’t stop obsessing about it. Absolutely hilarious. And when Perry told him, out of his clothes, he was a ten? Dead. Just dead.
This book is dorky, swoony, funny, sexy, and full of love in all the best ways. It left me smiling the entire time. Easy five stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
And Perry — sweet, flirty bartender Perry — walks into this story thinking he’s lined up a hookup. Instead, he gets Theo: drunk, oblivious, and somehow immune to realizing he’s being hit on. Theo is so wonderfully clueless that he takes Perry out on an actual date without even realizing it, all while Perry’s over here thinking, oh, cool, we’re finally going to hook up. The miscommunication of it all is golden.
What made this book sing for me, though, was how their friendship slowly blurs into something more. Perry, with his insecurities and his fear of going deep because of his dad walking out, keeps insisting he’s only in it for fun. But then he has these little epiphanies — like when he realizes that whenever something good happens to Theo, he feels like it happened to him too. That line? That’s the definition of love, right there. It’s quiet, it’s simple, and it floored me.
The family dynamics were a whole extra layer of warmth. Perry’s mom was incredible — the kind of parent you want to hug through the page. On Theo’s side, his parents and sisters added even more sweetness.
And don’t get me wrong — it’s not just soft. The chemistry between Perry and Theo? Hot. The banter? Adorable. He was so excited by being called a nine by Perry even when he thought he is straight 🤭he couldn’t stop obsessing about it. Absolutely hilarious. And when Perry told him, out of his clothes, he was a ten? Dead. Just dead.
This book is dorky, swoony, funny, sexy, and full of love in all the best ways. It left me smiling the entire time. Easy five stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
June 10, 2024
Light, cute and sweet. Theo and Perry are a very adorable couple, I enjoyed how they met, how their friendship started and the pace of how they fell in love, no drama, no miscommunication, low angst and they have a very happy ending. This has some very funny moments and i enjoyed the simple plot. Loved reading about Ty and Brax as well.
July 5, 2024
If I could describe this book in one emoji, it would be this one: 🥰
This book was so sugary sweet. In the best way. I absolutely adored it. Most of my highlights were just sweet moments of this book. I loved it so very much.
The basis here is that bisexual Perry thought Theo was so hot and he wanted to bang him. Theo is very straight but also very oblivious. He just thought Perry wanted to be friends and hang out! It was so funny and the best hook up mix up ever. We had a a very special bi-awakening, too.
Sexy moments were so sexy. I loved them.
So very excited for the other FU books. I love this series.
This book was so sugary sweet. In the best way. I absolutely adored it. Most of my highlights were just sweet moments of this book. I loved it so very much.
The basis here is that bisexual Perry thought Theo was so hot and he wanted to bang him. Theo is very straight but also very oblivious. He just thought Perry wanted to be friends and hang out! It was so funny and the best hook up mix up ever. We had a a very special bi-awakening, too.
Sexy moments were so sexy. I loved them.
So very excited for the other FU books. I love this series.
June 8, 2024
This was a cute low angst read 🥹
Full rtc!
Full rtc!
November 26, 2024
Pretty cute & funny- loved the concept of someone so oblivious they dont realize when someone is flirting with them 😂
I really hated the nickname "puppy" is it just me or does this author have her characters have a weird nickname in every single book she writes. Its a bit cringey
I really hated the nickname "puppy" is it just me or does this author have her characters have a weird nickname in every single book she writes. Its a bit cringey
May 20, 2024
5 stars
This story was so cute and sweet! It was like the first ray of sunshine after a very rainy day.
Theo is one of the most adorable guy in MM books ever, he's oblivious, kind, honest, always trying to make people feel better, he's under a lot of pressure because of college and he doesn't want to disappoint his parents (who are wonderful people as well).
Perry has a very complicated (non) relationship with his father: he's the result of an affair and his dad never cared about him, choosing to stay with his wife and his older son, Tyler (one of the MCs of Playing Games, Franklin U series 1 book 1). Perry is very good at tech, but he doesn't attend college in order to deny the one thing that he has in common with his father. He has a very good relationship with Tyler, though: they care for each other deeply and their bond grows stronger through the whole book.
Perry and Theo become fast friends and they spend a lot of time together: for the first time in his life, Theo feels like he can be himself and, when he starts feeling sexual attraction towards Perry, he's unsure, but not scared, he knows he can fully trust him.
And Perry is so gentle and caring with Theo, he helps him in any way he can and he also find a new purpose for himself and he finally faces his feelings for his father.
Theo's first time is very emotional and what I loved most about this story is that both of them don't allow their fears of being abandoned or rejected to taint their relationship and they're very honest with each other.
There are a lot of scenes with Tyler and Brax, it was so good to see them again!
In the last chapters we also have glimpses of Harrison and Benny, the MCs of the next book. I freaking adore all the interconnections these authors created with their other books!
This was a great start for a new season at Franklin U, can't wait to read more!
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
This story was so cute and sweet! It was like the first ray of sunshine after a very rainy day.
Theo is one of the most adorable guy in MM books ever, he's oblivious, kind, honest, always trying to make people feel better, he's under a lot of pressure because of college and he doesn't want to disappoint his parents (who are wonderful people as well).
Perry has a very complicated (non) relationship with his father: he's the result of an affair and his dad never cared about him, choosing to stay with his wife and his older son, Tyler (one of the MCs of Playing Games, Franklin U series 1 book 1). Perry is very good at tech, but he doesn't attend college in order to deny the one thing that he has in common with his father. He has a very good relationship with Tyler, though: they care for each other deeply and their bond grows stronger through the whole book.
Perry and Theo become fast friends and they spend a lot of time together: for the first time in his life, Theo feels like he can be himself and, when he starts feeling sexual attraction towards Perry, he's unsure, but not scared, he knows he can fully trust him.
And Perry is so gentle and caring with Theo, he helps him in any way he can and he also find a new purpose for himself and he finally faces his feelings for his father.
Theo's first time is very emotional and what I loved most about this story is that both of them don't allow their fears of being abandoned or rejected to taint their relationship and they're very honest with each other.
There are a lot of scenes with Tyler and Brax, it was so good to see them again!
In the last chapters we also have glimpses of Harrison and Benny, the MCs of the next book. I freaking adore all the interconnections these authors created with their other books!
This was a great start for a new season at Franklin U, can't wait to read more!
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
June 23, 2024
are you kidding 😭 these two are the CUTEST
i would die for theo 🥹
i would die for theo 🥹
June 13, 2024
Frankly the only reason I didn't DNF this one was out of sheer laziness. The beginning in particular is pretty terrible, with super lazy info-dump writing that was almost painful to get through. I liked the characters and the concept well enough, but the writing and plotting here was so damn phoned-in, and there is definitely an expectation that you've read Riley's book in the first series -- you won't be totally lost if you haven't, but a lot of stuff comes up from that one. There also wasn't really any tension here, so it just felt a little toothless.
August 24, 2024
While I knew I would really like this book, I didn't realize just how much I would LOVE it!
I'm so happy to be back for another season at FU and this one is off to a spectacular start!
The book begins with a super adorable meet-cute (a hookup mix up as the title states) and from the beginning we start to see their connection and also their individual emotional issues.
Things I love:
+ friends to fwb/idiots to lovers
+ adorable nicknames (including the ones given to Brax & Ty from FU1)
+ strong family & friendship bonds - I love seeing the support & the minimal drama
+ the MCs develop their friendship before exploring desire
+ open, honest communication between the MCs & between their families/parents
+ so much humor!
+ lots of scenes with Brax & Ty
+ a sneak peek of Harrison & Benny who are the MCs for the next book
+ the spice helps to show their relationship progression
+ and I love that it has an Epilogue showing their future 10yrs later
This is a new comfort reread for me! What a FAB start to FU2!
I'm so happy to be back for another season at FU and this one is off to a spectacular start!
The book begins with a super adorable meet-cute (a hookup mix up as the title states) and from the beginning we start to see their connection and also their individual emotional issues.
Things I love:
+ friends to fwb/idiots to lovers
+ adorable nicknames (including the ones given to Brax & Ty from FU1)
+ strong family & friendship bonds - I love seeing the support & the minimal drama
+ the MCs develop their friendship before exploring desire
+ open, honest communication between the MCs & between their families/parents
+ so much humor!
+ lots of scenes with Brax & Ty
+ a sneak peek of Harrison & Benny who are the MCs for the next book
+ the spice helps to show their relationship progression
+ and I love that it has an Epilogue showing their future 10yrs later
This is a new comfort reread for me! What a FAB start to FU2!
June 17, 2024
Tropes: failed hook up, friends to FWB to lovers
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: one character has a disability, s***** dad
4.5 stars but I'm rounding up.
Theo is 21. Perry is 22. Theo is attending college. Perry is working at the bar shenanigans. Perry is the illegitimate son of a rich guy, and he was raised without a dad just getting money because the guy was trying to keep the child secret from his wife. It all came out though and Perry is still hating his dad, but he wants to get to know his brother Ty who had his own book earlier. Perry is tech savvy and can build programs / apps but he doesn't feel like he should pursue it because his dad is in that business and he hates everything his dad is associated with.
Theo thinks he's straight. He's a bit of a shy guy when it comes to girls, he has low self-esteem. Perry is bi/Pan, and he's all about quick hookups and not getting into a relationship. While drunk, they have a misunderstanding and Perry thinks that they're planning a hook up while Theo thinks they're setting up a friendly meet up. They decide to stay friends once they realize the mistake. But as they spend more time together, Theo thinks he's not so straight. He wants to hookup with Perry. Perry is up for that, and they agree to a exclusive Friends with benefits deal. Theo can explore his newfound sexuality and they will be exclusive because they are also friends outside of this and they don't want to hurt each other or make things awkward.
They were very fast friends and very fond of each other before they even started the FWB relationship. So it's not surprising that this is really not going to stay an FWB relationship. Nobody around them believes them that it's casual. LOL
I really enjoyed this book. I'm a sucker for characters being soft with each other and Theo and Perry were so sweet to each other. Perry called Theo his puppy. They were always looking at each other, so focused on each other, so physically affectionate with each other. And they weren't romantic or schmoopy so that was nice because it would have been too much if they were. I really liked the humor in the book. It was great to see Tyson and Braxton appearing as side characters. A lot of humor came out of those interactions.
Some notable moments:
"“They’re all easy, Puppy.” I make it two steps before I freeze. I’d just used my nickname for Theo in front of Ty and Brax. There’s no way my brother is going to let that pass. “Yes…have a seat…puppy.” Ty smiles. “Lacrosse.” Brax nudges him. “Be good.” “But where’s the fun in that?” Ty answers."
Yay, body positivity "We take our clothes off, and I try not to stare too hard at Theo’s body, at the belly that’s a little softer than mine—and honestly, than most of the guys I’m with—and yet it’s so fucking tempting and mouthwatering to me. I want to lick him from head to toe, taste every part of him, making him come so hard that no matter what guys he’s with in the future, he compares them to me."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: one character has a disability, s***** dad
4.5 stars but I'm rounding up.
Theo is 21. Perry is 22. Theo is attending college. Perry is working at the bar shenanigans. Perry is the illegitimate son of a rich guy, and he was raised without a dad just getting money because the guy was trying to keep the child secret from his wife. It all came out though and Perry is still hating his dad, but he wants to get to know his brother Ty who had his own book earlier. Perry is tech savvy and can build programs / apps but he doesn't feel like he should pursue it because his dad is in that business and he hates everything his dad is associated with.
Theo thinks he's straight. He's a bit of a shy guy when it comes to girls, he has low self-esteem. Perry is bi/Pan, and he's all about quick hookups and not getting into a relationship. While drunk, they have a misunderstanding and Perry thinks that they're planning a hook up while Theo thinks they're setting up a friendly meet up. They decide to stay friends once they realize the mistake. But as they spend more time together, Theo thinks he's not so straight. He wants to hookup with Perry. Perry is up for that, and they agree to a exclusive Friends with benefits deal. Theo can explore his newfound sexuality and they will be exclusive because they are also friends outside of this and they don't want to hurt each other or make things awkward.
They were very fast friends and very fond of each other before they even started the FWB relationship. So it's not surprising that this is really not going to stay an FWB relationship. Nobody around them believes them that it's casual. LOL
I really enjoyed this book. I'm a sucker for characters being soft with each other and Theo and Perry were so sweet to each other. Perry called Theo his puppy. They were always looking at each other, so focused on each other, so physically affectionate with each other. And they weren't romantic or schmoopy so that was nice because it would have been too much if they were. I really liked the humor in the book. It was great to see Tyson and Braxton appearing as side characters. A lot of humor came out of those interactions.
Some notable moments:
"“They’re all easy, Puppy.” I make it two steps before I freeze. I’d just used my nickname for Theo in front of Ty and Brax. There’s no way my brother is going to let that pass. “Yes…have a seat…puppy.” Ty smiles. “Lacrosse.” Brax nudges him. “Be good.” “But where’s the fun in that?” Ty answers."
Yay, body positivity "We take our clothes off, and I try not to stare too hard at Theo’s body, at the belly that’s a little softer than mine—and honestly, than most of the guys I’m with—and yet it’s so fucking tempting and mouthwatering to me. I want to lick him from head to toe, taste every part of him, making him come so hard that no matter what guys he’s with in the future, he compares them to me."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2024
Seriously cute
This book is seriously cute and very swoony and it would have been a 5* read for me if not for the casual drug use in two scenes.
Even though I'm aware it's perfectly legal in parts of the US to buy and smoke weed, unfortunately, it's a personal dislike of mine, so it lessened my enjoyment.
That was my only niggle because I loved the rest of this relationship between Theo and Perry.
Perry's nickname of Puppy perfectly describes the happy-go-lucky outward nature Theo presents to the world.
He's a people pleaser who doesn't want to let anyone down so he struggles along with his schoolwork because he's the first in his family to go to college.
Perry, we met in his brother Ty's book in the first series of Franklin U when they discovered each other existed for the first time.
He's got battlements on top of his walls, surrounded by a moat and all the other defences, so it comes as a pretty big surprise when he finds himself becoming friends with Theo.
I loved how low key Theo's bisexual awakening is and how Perry was so good at letting him set his own pace and just being there for him.
Seeing the two of them accidentally falling in love was such an enjoyable experience.
This book is seriously cute and very swoony and it would have been a 5* read for me if not for the casual drug use in two scenes.
Even though I'm aware it's perfectly legal in parts of the US to buy and smoke weed, unfortunately, it's a personal dislike of mine, so it lessened my enjoyment.
That was my only niggle because I loved the rest of this relationship between Theo and Perry.
Perry's nickname of Puppy perfectly describes the happy-go-lucky outward nature Theo presents to the world.
He's a people pleaser who doesn't want to let anyone down so he struggles along with his schoolwork because he's the first in his family to go to college.
Perry, we met in his brother Ty's book in the first series of Franklin U when they discovered each other existed for the first time.
He's got battlements on top of his walls, surrounded by a moat and all the other defences, so it comes as a pretty big surprise when he finds himself becoming friends with Theo.
I loved how low key Theo's bisexual awakening is and how Perry was so good at letting him set his own pace and just being there for him.
Seeing the two of them accidentally falling in love was such an enjoyable experience.
June 8, 2024
I had a great time reading this. I loved the first series and so this did not disappoint.It was so funny, it had me laughing out loud. The dialogue was hilarious. The hook up mix up could have been so cringe but was funny and a great scene. I loved both mcs, they were so lovable and sexy. The steam was boiling hot and the full story was very enjoyable. The puppy nickname was annoying to me, I felt it was a little degrading and unnecessary. All in all a great book
June 22, 2024
A-dork-able college boys romance. Perfect summer read!
(But if you're looking for angst, you might have better luck at an Easter Egg Hunt)
(But if you're looking for angst, you might have better luck at an Easter Egg Hunt)
dnf
July 3, 2024dnf @ 40% i’m bored and i don’t have the patience for this anymore
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