It Has to Be You

Fan Service #1

by Hinsel Meyer

Sebas
I just came out of the closet.
I blew the doors off that bitch.
Then I ran away crying.
Screaming those two words may have cost me my future, but I’m going to work my ass off to make my dreams come true.
Now that most people in my life know I’m gay, step one of my master plan is done.
No matter what though, I’m never hiding again.
Even if I don’t make it as an artist, I’ll never go back into the closet.
No one could convince me otherwise.
I’m sure of this…

And then, I meet him.


Adam
I’m never coming out of the closet.
Well, at least not for another twenty years.
I hope.
I don’t want to be the first out queer player in the NFL.
I don’t want to be the gay poster boy for them or anyone else.
And I definitely don’t want to be that and a rookie that has to prove everyone right.
Since freshman year of high school, people have been telling me I’m going to be the next big thing in the NFL.
It may have something to do with who my dad is and definitely has something to do with who my grandfather is.
A born and bred southern boy with two Superbowl rings and a golden Hall of Fame jacket even though he only played in the NFL for five years.
Forty years ago.
Yeah, Clive Darnell is a living legend, and thanks to his sports talk-show people are still obsessed with him.
And by association, me.
I have it all planned out though, I’ll have an amazing and long career in the NFL.
Then, when I retire with at least a couple of Superbowl rings, I’ll just start dating men.
No fuss, no explanations.
I’ve been working for this moment for most of my life, there’s no way I’m losing sight of the end goal now, and there’s no way I’ll do anything to jeopardize my chances of being the best football player I can be.
There's no way...

And then, I meet him.
It Has To Be You is a Contemporary M/M College and Sports Romance. It's the first book in the Fan Service Series and my (Hinsel Meyer) debut novel. This book has no cliffhangers and ends in a HEA. There are a loooot of very gay things happening inside this book, so if that's not for you, then this book isn't either. If it is, then welcome to the mostly low-angsty world of the Fan Service Series, I'm thrilled to have you and hope you enjoy this journey.

Genres: M M Romance, Sports, College, Football, Contemporary, Sports Romance, LGBT

Unknown Binding

Reviews

[Book Binge: Reviews by Melissa DaSilva · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really great book for a debut! Sebas and Adam’s story was really great to read and I was surprised by all the different emotions I went through while reading this book: happiness, sadness, frustration, anger to name a few! I did find that it took a little bit for me to get into the story but once the MCs met it started to move a little faster for me and I really enjoyed them getting to know each other!

Sebas was such a fun character and I related to him a lot with the worrying that he did and the way he seemed to catastrophize every situation. Adam also has a lot of fears with coming out. I had some frustration with the way they both handled that but the author did a great job of showing how much fear can affect our decisions and our lives!

At the beginning of every chapter there was a song quote and I really liked that. Especially if I knew the song. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and think it was wonderful for a debut. I look forward to reading the next book in this series!

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this! I've been reading this series completely out of order, but I was excited to finally get to see the start of Adam and Sebas's relationship.

I definitely laughed and cried for both Adam and Sebas, that decision on the roof though... 😭😭😭

It was also fun to spot the other characters too. I've read Luke and Bennett's book, and I've read Carter and Liam's, but it was also fun to see how the core characters of the series - Glenn, George, Mike, Derek, CJ - and all of Adam's family were introduced.

Excited to read everyone else's stories now!

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the debut novel of Hinsel Meyer, a beautiful book that I've enjoyed very much.
The start of the book is a bit slow and it took me a while to get into the history, but once I did I loved how the plot developed. The MCs are great, they are in their early twenties, both come from money but they were down-to-earth guys and didn't take what they had for granted. Adam and Sebas worked hard to get where they were and I loved that about them.
Adam is the quarterback of the football team and is fighting to be drafted for an NFL team, he is gay but still in the closet. Sebas just came out to his family and didn't expect the reactions he got from them, so he is working hard to fulfil his dream of living off his sculptures.
I loved how they met and how their relationship evolved. It's a slow burn story and sometimes I got the impression the author gave too much information about things that were not important. I'd also liked to get more moments and conversations of Sebas and Adam together, but it was beautiful how they both couldn't just stay away from each other.
They were sweet together and I just loved how the author got to tell and describe behaviours that were a bit obnoxious but so in line with what young people in their twenties would be like. I also loved the secondary characters, they were perfect and made the story realistic. It was wonderful to see a supportive sports system for queer athletes.
I enjoyed this book very much and I can't wait to read Glenn's story as I loved this author's writing style and this book made me smile and feel warm inside.

[Miglė | Perskaičiau ir aprašiau · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐

[Megan Gustafson · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️ I thought this one was pretty boring and unfortunately didn’t connect with either MC. 🫤

[Ay · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series should be titled Lachrimae. Like OMG, the copious weeping of everyone in this book. They all need to keep drinking electrolytes so they don't get dehydration headaches.

Otherwise an enjoyable series.

[Crisana]

Maybe this is a good book. Maybe not. But at 20% and barely any dialogue between the characters except for a weird drunken kiss, I have to throw in the towel.
I owned this book so may come back to it later.

[DLB2572 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Debut For This Series

I really enjoyed reading this story. I absolutely adored Sebas and Adam's sweet story and I can't wait for Glenn's story next.

I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion

[LA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sebas and Adam are adorable. Individually and as a couple. As individuals they’re strong and determined to succeed. As a couple they are completely dedicated to each other and their future.

There are so many moments in this book where I just wanted to hug them because I found them utterly adorable. And then there were times where I wanted to shake them and make them see reason. But then I would remember that they’re only 20 with fears about being accepted, and some of my frustration would fade.

I am glad that both Sebas and Adam had friends and family who supported them. And I appreciate that the author makes it clear that although you might know that you’re loved by people, sometimes you can still have fears that their love might be conditional or change because of who you love.

This is a great debut novel and I look forward to the next book to learn more about Glenn.

[Monikat · Rating 4 out of 5]

A calm, easy, polite, medium anxiety, sweet, loving story. A feel good book.

[Wren Vale · Rating 4 out of 5]

I binged this story in one sitting. Couldn’t put it down.
The 2 MC’s , Sebas and Adam were both so well written, I loved them both.
I felt all the feels, some parts heartbreaking but also laugh out loud funny too.
The families on both sides were fun too!
Lots of twists and turns, but ultimately we get the much desired HEA 🥰

I loved the style of writing, I believe Hinsel Meyer is one to watch 😜

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had a very slow start for me. I'm honestly not sure I would have finished it if I didn't have an ARC and it was a debut novel. By the end I was completely invested in the characters and their HEA.

This is marketed as a low angst, slow burn. It was definitely a slow burn, and we don't a ton of spice. I thought it had a decent amount of angst. It was mostly internal from pressure the characters put on themselves, but I still count it.

I liked the characters a lot. I was glad we got to see not only a conclusion for the main MCs, but for some of the secondary characters as well. The last few chapters had a huge smile on my face from seeing everyone getting happy endings.

I expect to read about the sport when I read a sports romance. This book took a pretty unique approach to that. It didn't focus so much on the actual games as it did the schedule for the players. There were some plays described, but it was more focused on navigating and balancing everything.

The writing was a little clunky, but the potential is there. There were times when the story didn't flow well. We would get a bunch of details on something that didn't seem that significant and things that did seem important didn't get a lot of time/space.

Overall, this was a good debut novel. I liked the character and the story, and I really appreciated the unique sports perspective. I wasn't totally impressed with the writing, and I haven't decided if I plan to continue the series as it is released.

I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion

[Lady Macbeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars
This is a very sweet story with two adorable guys: Adam is a rising football closeted star, Sebas is a talented, a bit dramatic, artist fresh out of the closet. They're perfect for each other and the first weeks of their relationship are full of sweet little moments.
The third act break up actually happens way sooner and I was glad for that: the author took her time to explore the MCs' feelings, the sadness, the loss, the desperation and I think she handled their frustration very well. There was just to much for them and they are so young, so they just couldn't face it all.
The second part is a little anticlimatic: a lot of their problems resolve? very easily. I honestly was expecting more angst. The last chapter and the epilogue are also very sweet (maybe a little too much?).
I loved all the side characters, especially Mike, Elliott and Kevin; I hope we'll see them again in the future.
The sex scenes are very well written, especially their first time together: the author describes their feelings and their doubts in a very realistic way.
I'll definitely read the following book, Glenn's story, that seems to starts on very different notes.

This is a debut for this author and I think it's worth to keep an eye on her.
Recommended

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review

[Carol (§CoverLoverGirl§) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sebastian (Sebastian) David has fled back to college at Cavandish University after outing himself to his parents and brothers at home in Mexico City. He’s changing his major from Business to Art and has no intention of joining the family Marketing Empire. He needs to earn money to pay his Tuition and Accommodation if and when his father cuts him off financially, he throws himself into gathering scraps of metal from skips and elsewhere to continue making his metal sculptures and sell them at a Gallery. With his friend Glenn they go to the local bar, Holly’s, where their friend Bennett works as a bartender. As he downs several drinks he ends up sobbing on Glenn’s shoulder and telling everyone what he has done at home.

Adam Darnell is the star player on Cavandish University’S Football Squad. His dream is to get drafted to the NFL at the end of the year and follow in the steps of his Grandfther and father. Grandfather is now the top TV commentator on Football having been a player himself for many years. His father started out as a player but gave it up when he married. Adam wants to impress his Grandfather so he won’t be disappointed at his Dad’s choice. So he has decided to stay in the closet until he retires in 20 years time!!!!!. He doesn’t want to be first guy to come out in the NFL.

When Adam and his friends, MIke and Derek walk into their local pub, Holly’s they are surprised to see a few guys surrounding another young man sobbing his heart out on his friends shoulder. After introductions Adam suddenly has the urge to kiss away the tears of the gorgeous young man, Sebas. He’s even more surprised when he realises he has offered to drive a very drunk Sebas and his friend Glenn home. There, he is more shocked when Sebas gives Adam his first ever kiss.💋❤️🧨.

As events unfold between Adam and Sebas, always behind closed doors and secretly, decisions need to be made. All does not go smoothly, Adam in closet and Sebas very much out there and proud. Their friends, Mike, Derek, CJ, Carter, Glenn, all have their own issues and baggage that surfaces also but it doesn’t prevent them from helping their respective friends when they need support.

The crux of this story is the miscommunication between parents and their offspring, their expectations and lack of understanding. Both sets of parents are good people, and Adam and Sebas need to get a conversation going before they lose each other permanently.

I’m bingeing on Hinsel Meyer’s books lately and filling my WTR list with each new title I come across in the Fan Service Series. All stories are so well put together with enough side characters to add support to Protagonists and add extra colour and interest to her books. The next in the series gives Glenn his story which may be a bit more angsty that IHTBY, Book 1.

[Tara Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adam was football royalty; his dad was in the NFL, and his grandpa was in the NFL and continued as a sportscaster for decades, knowing everything there is to know about the game. He came from money. He was privileged, and he knew it, yet he felt he had to keep a secret from the world. And most importantly, from his grandpa because without him, he would feel lost, and right now, with the prospect of the NFL and the unknown of the man that means the most to him, it just wasn’t worth it. Until Sebas then, everything looked different.

Sebas lived his life in the closet for long enough and finally found the courage to come out to his family. They didn’t react like he wanted, which hurt. While he was coming out, he told them he was changing his major so he could be happy. Even though he was hurt and even a little angry, he was happy that he was finally living authentically until Adam. He wanted Sebas to go back into the closet and lock the door, and he just couldn’t.

OPINION: I’ve said it before and will say it again: Hinsel Meyer is one of my favorite authors. I read books five and six first and am now reading the first four. Every book is 100% a romance book, but there is so much story and emotion in it. This book didn’t disappoint me in the least. These two men are so wonderful, and the love story fills your heart. Each one of these men has a full backstory and life that you are wrapped up in from the start. You get invested in their lives, their families, and their love. I cried because it hits you right in the feels and is written so well that you hurt right along with them. I loved this book; the men and the families are all part of it, and I couldn’t put it down because I wanted to know how it would turn out. Everyone should read all the books in this series..(I have three more), but I know I will love them just as much. This one is a winner!!!

[Siobhan · Rating 3 out of 5]

It Has to Be You is the first book in Hinsel Meyer’s Fan Service series. While I can see many loving this, it was a story that had me conflicted.

At first, It Has to Be You was a four-star rating. It sucked me in and had me curious about the characters. Sure, it was a little to instalove for me. However, it was cute. This cuteness was enough for me to be hooked and to ensure I kept turning the pages. As things progressed, however, my feelings toward the story changed. In the end, what had me changing my view on the story was the way one character seemed to be backed into the corner about how they handled their sexuality. It was supposed to be inspiring, showing how they were an inspiration for others, yet it left me feeling uncomfortable because of how the decision was reached. It was not something they wanted to happen in the way it did, and it felt wrong to me that it was done simply so they could be the beacon for future hope. It took the power away from the message, making it difficult for me to feel the connection to the events that followed.

While this started strong for me, I was not overjoyed with the way certain events played out. In truth, those events were enough to drop me to a two-point-five-star rating. As I enjoyed it at first, however, I decided to round my rating up. As I said, I can see many enjoying this, yet it did not work for me in the way the story was clearly intended to work.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really good debut novel

This was a slow burn when instant attraction between Adam and Sebas morphs into friendship and closeness, and from there it's only too easy to fall in love.
Although I live in England, I watch American Football (to give it it's proper title!) and have supported the Eagles for more years than I care to mention, so it was nice to read a sports romance that wasn't baseball (boring and yes, I've been to a game) or hockey (not boring and yes, I've been to a few games). I'm not au fait with the college football system but the NFL and the draft, I do understand.
Adam and Sebas were lovely together, no matter where they were in their relationship. The anxiety Adam felt, keeping his sexuality hidden, was well written, as were his growing feelings for Sebas. I loved that Hinsel didn't give Adam and Sebas a manufactured break up that is only there to cause a bit of drama, as happens in so many books, but dealt with their circumstances in a manner where their actions and feelings all rang true.
As I said, this was a very slow burn but I thought, in the circumstances, it was beautifully paced and I relished every page of their story. The supporting cast of all their family and friends made the story even more interesting, and I adored Aunt Gab and her fabulous way of answering reporters' stupid questions.
Glenn's story is next and I'm really looking forward to it. I also need to see Mike, the gentle giant I wanted to hug, get his HEA.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This debut novel from Hinsel Meyer is an MM college football romance featuring MCs Adam and Sebas. Both are endearing, sensitive and relatable characters that I felt connected to right away.

I enjoyed the story and the angst that 'the right man at the wrong time' trope provides, as Sebas was out as a gay man and Adam was firmly in the closet due to his future career in the NFL. Both guys come from very different familial backgrounds with complicated dynamics, yet the fear of not being accepted by those they love was something both characters experienced in different ways.

Overall, this was a lovely story of young lovers dealing with some complicated issues ranging from toxic masculinity to figuring out who they are as people separate from their sexuality. It did feel long in some parts and I am not sure why Adam's family suddenly introduced foster siblings into the mix as it didn't really feel relevant to the story. I would definitely read more from this author and look forward to Glenn's story.

Thank you Gay Romance Reviews for this free copy to review.

[Traci S · Rating 4 out of 5]

I believe this is the author’s debut novel, and there are a lot of things that I enjoyed. First and foremost, I liked the two main characters - a lot. Sebas and Adam are interesting, and I especially liked that they felt and acted their age. This is a story about young adults navigating love, and these two feel like authentic 20 year olds. The challenges and pressures Adam feels about how his sexuality complicates his football dreams were thoughtfully explored. I also liked the creative touches, like the song lyrics which start each chapter- a small thing but much appreciated. I liked these characters, and I liked them together. I will say, it felt long to me, I kept checking how much story was left. But, it was super flipping sweet seeing Adam and Sebas fall for each other and then try to figure out how they can fit into each other’s lives. Lots of promise here for a really good sports romance series, will definitely read Glenn’s story. Rounding up to 4⭐️, for the strength of the characters.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Gail · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a cute book with some good moments. It didn’t get a higher rating mostly because the writing could use some development.

There weren’t a lot of descriptions for the characters and the few that were felt lazy because they depended on pop culture references. I usually picture characters in my head while scenes are being acted out, like brushing hair off foreheads or looking over shoulders, but I didn’t have enough to put anything together.

Additionally, a lot of the world building and story progression felt like a narrative rather than being rolled into the characters. For example, in some places it was hard to determine if the scene was past or current because it was written as if the story was being told to you rather than playing out on the pages. There were blocks of explanations for events in the book, but they were descriptive enough to feel immersed and made me question their relevance.

There was enough character development that I’m invested enough to read the second book, but at this point, I probably wouldn’t recommend the series.

[Yvonne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading the All it Takes series, I vowed to myself that I would begin reading this series. Being a football player Adam has kept a secret that he is gay, not wanting to be the first queer player of the NFL and not wanting to anger his idol, his grandad, he hides his true self. Then he meets Sebas, who has his own family drama with he came out. From the moment Adam sees Sebas he cant tear his eyes away.
I really liked Adam and Sebas from the moment they were introduced. Even though Adam had football heritage and was a star in his own right, he always came across as humble and a bit shy. Sebas was a talented sculptor, has a few close friends and could win an Oscar for his dramatic flare. At time Sebas had me sniggering to myself with his drama, but he was such an adorable character and was the perfect partner for Adam. When things got serious I was there applauding them both
I liked that we learnt more about Adam's family and it was good to see a familiar character. Both Adam and Sebas families were full of character especially Adam's grandad.
Now I have started this series I am looking forward to reading more

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

********** Contains Spoilers**********

This is the first book that I’ve read by Hinsel Meyer and it won’t be my last. I thought that it was a good start to the Fan Service Series. I thought it was cool how Hinsel included a Playlist at the start of this book. I downloaded the songs to my new Hinsel Meyer Playlist and listened to it while reading Sebas and Adam’s story. Yes, I listen to music while I read from my Kindle as for some weird reason it makes me concentrate a lot more on the words in the book.

I enjoyed this book but it did take a bit for me to get fully into the story but as soon as I did I was invested in Adam & Sebas’s story, and I thought that they were cute together. I really enjoyed all the secondary characters and I’m looking forward to reading some of their stories as the series continues. It’s Glenn and George’s book, What We Earned up next. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.

[Brittany St Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A debit book with potential.

The premise for the story is great. There's a lot of struggle with coming out, and the fears of it hurting their futures. These two, I think without realizing it, fall in love instantly. They say they can see themselves falling in love, but the way they act, to me, it's clear they already had. There's a lot they go through emotionally to build themselves up, and they come out better in the end because of it.

It was a very slow start for me, and at times, didn't hold my interest. It was very back and forth with what the characters were feeling. At times a bit repetitive. It picked up around the 60% mark for me, but then, I had a hard time connecting again. At times, it felt as if there was a lot of information/details that weren't really needed, and those were the times were I disconnected with the story.

[Chrissie Hopkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've just read an ARC of this book.
I found it initially a little hard to get into. Being from the UK, I have no knowledge or understating of College Football or the NFL. One of the main characters is Mexican - there was no English translation of the Mexican phrases, so had to search these online & interrupted the flow of reading. There are also quite a few side-characters, which I found hard to remember - who they were or how they related to the main character - I'm not sure if they were all necessary or added to the story.
That being said, after a few chapters I enjoyed seeing Sebas & Adam's relationship blossom after a rocky start. The author dealt with the difficulties & anxiety of coming out well. For their first book they did a good job and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adam is a star QB, destined to be in the NFL and a closeted gay man. He meets Sebastian, an openly gay artist. They instantly fall for each other but honorably decide they will not be together as a secret. Their journey together is a long one but they are fully supported by wonderful friends and families. Actually most of their angst is self made but it is such a sweet story of love, passion , careers, families, and so much love. Some might find this long but I enjoyed every page and affirmation. Sebastian is very dramatic and Adam is calm and dedicated. This is the author's first book and I think its a good first effort. It was a very detailed story attempted with more emphasis on family concerns and details and less on their sexy times. I did love them as a couple and their characters. I received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic story and great start to the series. Sebas, has presumptions of how his family responds when he comes out. Before anyone can react, he runs away. Adam, has a plan. He's a senion football player hoping to go to the NFL. He believes he must stay in the closet because of the potential prejudice and controversy that may be in his future. He has fellow squad team members who choose not to come out and enter the NFL thinking they don't have the same potential opportunity as Sebas who comes from a football legacy family. Adam and Sebas meet, start a relationship and have hard decisions and choices to make. Great story, great flow, great challenges for Seb and Adam. Excellent family sand friend upport structure. These two are amazing young men and you wish you were in the story to support them also. Excellent story, nicely done!

[Shira S. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too wordy, not engaging

I definitely did not vibe with this writing style. It came off as a recounting of experiences rather than a telling of a story. I was not engaged and should have put it down at the 30% mark.
Some of my thoughts, in no particular order:
- The amount of detail and words used to describe every little thing that happened. Yawn.
- Neither Adam nor Sebas managed to convince me why they were so sure their families would reject them for coming out. And I was right.
- why was everyone crying so much??
- Meeting BOTH Adam and Sebas's entire families after their first night together - premature much??
- And don't get me started on the story of the foster brothers! Two teenagers removed from a dangerous home life, and right away they're forced into meeting their foster parents' entire extended family??

Bottom like - 2 stars rating

[Vols77 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even thought this book moves slowly I was so invested in the characters, plot and dialogue that I read it in one sitting. The two main characters are so different yet so alike. Sebas, who has recently come out to his family and is freaking out oh how they will respond but he has to live his full authentic self whereas Adam the football star and legacy is hiding his secret as his NFL a career depends upon it. However one drunken kiss changes everything for both men and feelings come out. This story moved my heart ( and even pained it in some places) as these two men deal with their feelings, the past and their future to find love and HEA. The other characters are so good I hope they become the center of future books. I dis receive an ARC and leave this honest review.

[Ida Umphers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a huge fan of the story where one character is determinedly out and the other is most determinedly not out and seeing how the author handles the negotiations between them when they fall for each other. I wasn't sure whether to admire Adam or cry non-stop for him (I did both) with the absolutely crushing weight of family and national expectations riding on his shoulders in a field like pro football. The thought that he's got a life plan where he can have an NFL career so amazing that when he retires he can come out and be himself but not before then? Oh mercy! Then, to pair him up with struggling artist Sebas who came out and accepted the consequences made for a stunningly good debut novel.

[Janice Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a slow-burn romance and I really enjoyed reading it. The MC’s had an instant connection and their chemistry was amazing. Sebas was so brave to come out and to go after his dreams instead of going for business like his family wanted him to do. Adam was dedicated to his passion, which was football. It was sad that Adam had to hide who loved because the sport of football is still inundated with toxic masculinity. But I am glad when they finally take the chance to be together. I enjoyed the dynamics between them and watching their romance blossom over time. It was not as steamy as I prefer my MM romance, but it was still a really good book to read. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.