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Driscoll U Diaries #3
The Best Venture
She was a nameless stranger from an unforgettable summer night, until months later, when she stumbled into his office and became his worst nightmare.
Emma Haywood is determined to secure her big break as a respected journalist at her university's newspaper. As she strives to balance her academic responsibilities, spend time with friends, and work on the Driscoll Wolf Weekly, Emma finds herself with little time for anything else while trying to impress her new editor. However, when her big break finally arrives, it comes with a it involves the help of the older man she kissed over the summer, who just so happens to be the attractive new professor.
Grayson Hayes feels lost. When he embarks on a new career in a place he once called home, he begins to regain a sense of normalcy in his life. But good things rarely last long, especially when the girl he has been dreaming about for months reenters his life in the worst way possible.
Emma Haywood is determined to secure her big break as a respected journalist at her university's newspaper. As she strives to balance her academic responsibilities, spend time with friends, and work on the Driscoll Wolf Weekly, Emma finds herself with little time for anything else while trying to impress her new editor. However, when her big break finally arrives, it comes with a it involves the help of the older man she kissed over the summer, who just so happens to be the attractive new professor.
Grayson Hayes feels lost. When he embarks on a new career in a place he once called home, he begins to regain a sense of normalcy in his life. But good things rarely last long, especially when the girl he has been dreaming about for months reenters his life in the worst way possible.
438 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2026
About the author
Nina Rey
3 books70 followersI was born and raised in NYC and Bogotá, Colombia. I’ve always been a hopeless romantic, and after watching dozens of 2000s rom-coms and listening to the best love songs of all time, I was given a very popular book series on my seventeenth birthday that changed my life forever.
After eight years of living in other author’s worlds; I created my own. In the fall of 2022, I snatched my laptop and outlined my debut novel. It was filled with everything I loved: steam, romance, hate, and a happily ever after. It was at that moment I knew that this was what I wanted to do.
When I’m not writing, I can be found reading (shocker, I know), cooking, dancing, on a road trip, or out at the movies.
After eight years of living in other author’s worlds; I created my own. In the fall of 2022, I snatched my laptop and outlined my debut novel. It was filled with everything I loved: steam, romance, hate, and a happily ever after. It was at that moment I knew that this was what I wanted to do.
When I’m not writing, I can be found reading (shocker, I know), cooking, dancing, on a road trip, or out at the movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
May 29, 2026
3.5🌟, 2.5🌶️
Some romances just crawl under your skin, and this one absolutely did. Emma and Grayson had instant chemistry, and the tension between them after that secret London meeting made every interaction feel charged. Seeing them thrown back together at university created the perfect mix of angst, longing, and chaos that kept me completely invested.
I really loved the depth of their relationship and how hard they both fought through the personal and professional complications standing in their way. Grayson was easily the highlight for me. He was patient, selfless, and impossible not to love. While some of the dialogue and inner monologues felt a little awkward at times, the sweetness of their connection more than made up for it, and I found myself rooting for them the entire time.
This ended up being such a cozy and steamy read that I struggled to put down. The friend group added so much warmth to the story and perfectly captured that bittersweet feeling of growing up alongside the people who shape you. This romance had the perfect balance of tension, sweetness, and spice.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Nina Rey & Luna Literary for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
Some romances just crawl under your skin, and this one absolutely did. Emma and Grayson had instant chemistry, and the tension between them after that secret London meeting made every interaction feel charged. Seeing them thrown back together at university created the perfect mix of angst, longing, and chaos that kept me completely invested.
I really loved the depth of their relationship and how hard they both fought through the personal and professional complications standing in their way. Grayson was easily the highlight for me. He was patient, selfless, and impossible not to love. While some of the dialogue and inner monologues felt a little awkward at times, the sweetness of their connection more than made up for it, and I found myself rooting for them the entire time.
This ended up being such a cozy and steamy read that I struggled to put down. The friend group added so much warmth to the story and perfectly captured that bittersweet feeling of growing up alongside the people who shape you. This romance had the perfect balance of tension, sweetness, and spice.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Nina Rey & Luna Literary for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
May 4, 2026
Nina does it again! Absolutely adored Emma and Graysons story so much! So happy that Emma finally got her HEA because my girl deserves it so much. I love a good found family trope, and Nina does that so well… has you thinking that you’re right there with them along for the ride. But omg, I can’t wait for Jake’s book. I have a feeling that I know who he’s going to end up with, and I can’t wait to have it confirmed.
The Best Venture will be available May 15th!
If you’re into professor x student, age gap, and an MMC that whimpers 🥵… add this to your TBR! And be sure to add the other two books as well.
The Best Venture will be available May 15th!
If you’re into professor x student, age gap, and an MMC that whimpers 🥵… add this to your TBR! And be sure to add the other two books as well.
May 15, 2026
I think I really like Professor x Student 😏🥵❤️🔥 (age appropriate ofc) cause I really liked this and The Love Hypothesis soooo.
I loved that Emma stood up for herself when it came to not waiting around for some man. It’s always nice seeing strong FMCs that are about protecting their peace.
Grayson is a sweetie pie omg 💖
Also, I NEED JAKES LOVE STORY RIGHT NOW
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for my honest review!
I loved that Emma stood up for herself when it came to not waiting around for some man. It’s always nice seeing strong FMCs that are about protecting their peace.
Grayson is a sweetie pie omg 💖
Also, I NEED JAKES LOVE STORY RIGHT NOW
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for my honest review!
May 7, 2026
Thank you so much to Luna Literary and Nina Rey for this ARC!! Omg I love the Driscoll university world that Nina has created 🥹 Emma’s story from start to finish was chef’s kiss 😉 Grayson is 31 and looking for a fresh start at Driscoll university when he meets the newspaper interviewer Emma. Even at 21 years old, Emma asks all the hard questions about why he’s chosen Driscoll to be a professor at and who and what makes him himself🤭
💙 Missed Connection
📚 Book Lover
💙 Dual POV
🥀 Forced Proximity
💙 Grumpy x Sunshine
🎓 Small Town College
💙 Age Gap Romance
🔥 Slow Burn Romance
💙 Missed Connection
📚 Book Lover
💙 Dual POV
🥀 Forced Proximity
💙 Grumpy x Sunshine
🎓 Small Town College
💙 Age Gap Romance
🔥 Slow Burn Romance
May 10, 2026
I received this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
Emma + Grayson
One night changed everything. Emma + Grayson meet under the guise that they’ll never see each other again. But life had other plans.
Grayson ends up being at the university that Emma attends. This age gap forbidden romance hits all the marks for angst, yearning and two people figuring out how to navigate a relationship when one is ready & the other is weighing all the factors of how it’s going to work out.
Near the end of the book one of Emma’s paper colleagues ends up betraying her.. well they weren’t really friends to begin with. Emma got the position in the paper that this person wanted so there’s a bit of drama near the end. Honestly, the only qualm I have is how long it took for Grayson to do the grand gesture & how everything unfolded. His gift fit her so well & I had to sit with the why did he choose this versus something else. But it all made sense because she’s not materialistic at all. She’s humble much like Grayson.
I really enjoyed these two characters & their arcs alongside Emma and Grayson friends. They really helped drive the narrative.
Emma + Grayson
One night changed everything. Emma + Grayson meet under the guise that they’ll never see each other again. But life had other plans.
Grayson ends up being at the university that Emma attends. This age gap forbidden romance hits all the marks for angst, yearning and two people figuring out how to navigate a relationship when one is ready & the other is weighing all the factors of how it’s going to work out.
Near the end of the book one of Emma’s paper colleagues ends up betraying her.. well they weren’t really friends to begin with. Emma got the position in the paper that this person wanted so there’s a bit of drama near the end. Honestly, the only qualm I have is how long it took for Grayson to do the grand gesture & how everything unfolded. His gift fit her so well & I had to sit with the why did he choose this versus something else. But it all made sense because she’s not materialistic at all. She’s humble much like Grayson.
I really enjoyed these two characters & their arcs alongside Emma and Grayson friends. They really helped drive the narrative.
May 25, 2026
The Best Venture absolutely blew me away! From the very first moment they shared the page, the chemistry between Grayson and Emma was completely off the charts. Nina Rey writes tension so beautifully, and she played the age gap trope out to absolute perfection—it felt mature, deeply respectful, and incredibly high-stakes.
I'm not going to lie, my heart completely broke and I was in tears when Grayson had to step back for a while. That separation hurt, but looking back, it made the story so much stronger. His redemption arc was everything I wanted and more—deeply earned, beautifully written, and 100% worth the wait. This book has easily earned a spot on my all-time favorites shelf!
I'm not going to lie, my heart completely broke and I was in tears when Grayson had to step back for a while. That separation hurt, but looking back, it made the story so much stronger. His redemption arc was everything I wanted and more—deeply earned, beautifully written, and 100% worth the wait. This book has easily earned a spot on my all-time favorites shelf!
May 4, 2026
3.75 rounded up!! i knew i would enjoy this book bc i LOVE an age gap professor romance and that part absolutely didn’t disappoint! what kept this from being a 4 stars for me was some of the writing was a little cringe in my opinion. any scenes between emma and grayson were fantastic so that wasn’t the issue at all, it was more just like random dialogue or the MC’s internal thoughts i felt myself cringing at sometimes. otherwise this was a great book with DELICIOUS spice and i still would recommend!!
May 10, 2026
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Such a good book! Everyone here is a billionaire, hot, and so gosh durn nice. You root for every single character from the very first moment. Emma and Grayson are in a workplace sort of (school) romance, and they don't even know it at first. This book is a slow burn, after the first chapter, but it was pretty fast paced. Time kept passing and I love how they were the only hold up in their relationship, not miscommunications. And Jake!!! OMG I can't wait. Grayson's siblings & Marina were such a sweet addition. And the bookstore and home library? Both dreams come true. I'd recommend it to all my bookish girlies for that alone. But in seriousness - Totally would recommend if you're into age gap, workspace/college romance, hot billionaires all around, sweet and spicy all at one, forced proximity, and secret romance.
First time reading this author and jumping in the middle of the series, but I'm so adding the previous books to my tbr.
*Note: Thank you to the author for sharing this eARC with me.
Such a good book! Everyone here is a billionaire, hot, and so gosh durn nice. You root for every single character from the very first moment. Emma and Grayson are in a workplace sort of (school) romance, and they don't even know it at first. This book is a slow burn, after the first chapter, but it was pretty fast paced. Time kept passing and I love how they were the only hold up in their relationship, not miscommunications. And Jake!!! OMG I can't wait. Grayson's siblings & Marina were such a sweet addition. And the bookstore and home library? Both dreams come true. I'd recommend it to all my bookish girlies for that alone. But in seriousness - Totally would recommend if you're into age gap, workspace/college romance, hot billionaires all around, sweet and spicy all at one, forced proximity, and secret romance.
First time reading this author and jumping in the middle of the series, but I'm so adding the previous books to my tbr.
*Note: Thank you to the author for sharing this eARC with me.
May 7, 2026
Very thankful to have gotten this arc!
3 stars for me as it just wasn’t for me! I think this book will be a lot of people’s cup of tea and right up their alley, but personally, the writing style and characters I was just unable to connect to! Did love the age gap / how they met / and met again though!
Definitely pick this up if it interests you!!!!!
3 stars for me as it just wasn’t for me! I think this book will be a lot of people’s cup of tea and right up their alley, but personally, the writing style and characters I was just unable to connect to! Did love the age gap / how they met / and met again though!
Definitely pick this up if it interests you!!!!!
May 18, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. The chemistry between the FMC and MMC was phenomenal absolutely loved it. This story was well written and is definitely a must read!!
“She was a nameless stranger from an unforgettable summer night, until months later, when she stumbled into his office and became his worst nightmare.”
“She was a nameless stranger from an unforgettable summer night, until months later, when she stumbled into his office and became his worst nightmare.”
May 31, 2026
The spice was good but I couldn't keep my focus on the plot. The main couple weren't the typical professor x student trope so that was a nice spin. Seeing the other couples in the friend group made up for the storyline.
Review of advance copy received from Author
One night changed everything for Emma and Grayson. They met thinking that they would never see each other again, but life had other plans!
Nina Rey does it again! I don't know what she puts in her books, but they're addicting! I didn't want to put it down, and when I had to put it down, I was thinking about when my next opportunity was to start reading again! Her writing style is truly fantastic. Her characters are smart, sexy, emotional, and I'm so invested in every single person!
I love Emma so much! My dreamer girl! My hopeless romantic! I think I've related to her the most out of the whole friend group. She's nosey and wants to be in everyone's business, for good reason, but she's also very guarded when it comes to her own feelings. She's not one to share the intimate details of her relationship right away, and tends to stay in her own head with most of how she's feeling. I'm so happy that she got her happily ever after. She's been through so much, and she deserves it!
"She said she wanted a love that consumed her, but she's the one who's consumed me, mind, body, and soul."
As for Grayson... The man whimpers!!!! He's so fucking hot, it's unreal! Him and his slutty little glasses! I love men written by women for THIS EXACT REASON. Grayson Hayes, everyone. He's right out of a romance novel (HA!!) He's not perfect, but he'll damn near try to be, and prove to you along the way that he's worth it. Not only that, but he's so kind and thoughtful. He considered Emma and her feelings first in every situation that they were in. Truly so selfless. He's someone you want to give a big hug to. Like Emma, Grayson has also been through a lot, and he deserves so much happiness!
Emma and Grayson together are perfect. They're different, but not too much different that it's weird and awkward. They balance each other out so well. They're both kind of going through similar situations in their life, just at different parts of their life, so it was very easy for them to empathize with each other.
The TENSION AND ANGST BETWEEN THEM IS INSANE! The sneaking around, the public spicy scenes... 10/10, *chef's kiss* (HA!)
I kind of consider them to be a second chance romance. Their meet cute at the beginning was EXACLTLY that, and spicy! I wanted more of them then and there. Their chemistry was off the charts that first night, so moving forward, you already knew there was going to be a lot of tension in everything that they did. I loved every minute of them together!
The Scooby Gang!!! I love how much they're all so connected throughout this series! What I loved most about their friendship's this book, is that they acknowledged that they're getting older, and was spending less time together than they did in previous years. That's truly sign of growing up. It's crippling coming to terms with that in college, because you see everyone start to drift in their separate ways. These characters will be connected forever, though, and their friendship's are strong! I can't wait to see where life takes them next!
Nina... That cliff hanger... PLEASE!
Professor x Student
10 Year Age Gap
Missed Connection
Grumpy x Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Secret Yearning
He Falls First + Harder
Small Town College Setting
Dual POV
Thank you, Nina Rey, for this arc in exchange for my review. All thoughts are my own.
Nina Rey does it again! I don't know what she puts in her books, but they're addicting! I didn't want to put it down, and when I had to put it down, I was thinking about when my next opportunity was to start reading again! Her writing style is truly fantastic. Her characters are smart, sexy, emotional, and I'm so invested in every single person!
I love Emma so much! My dreamer girl! My hopeless romantic! I think I've related to her the most out of the whole friend group. She's nosey and wants to be in everyone's business, for good reason, but she's also very guarded when it comes to her own feelings. She's not one to share the intimate details of her relationship right away, and tends to stay in her own head with most of how she's feeling. I'm so happy that she got her happily ever after. She's been through so much, and she deserves it!
"She said she wanted a love that consumed her, but she's the one who's consumed me, mind, body, and soul."
As for Grayson... The man whimpers!!!! He's so fucking hot, it's unreal! Him and his slutty little glasses! I love men written by women for THIS EXACT REASON. Grayson Hayes, everyone. He's right out of a romance novel (HA!!) He's not perfect, but he'll damn near try to be, and prove to you along the way that he's worth it. Not only that, but he's so kind and thoughtful. He considered Emma and her feelings first in every situation that they were in. Truly so selfless. He's someone you want to give a big hug to. Like Emma, Grayson has also been through a lot, and he deserves so much happiness!
Emma and Grayson together are perfect. They're different, but not too much different that it's weird and awkward. They balance each other out so well. They're both kind of going through similar situations in their life, just at different parts of their life, so it was very easy for them to empathize with each other.
The TENSION AND ANGST BETWEEN THEM IS INSANE! The sneaking around, the public spicy scenes... 10/10, *chef's kiss* (HA!)
I kind of consider them to be a second chance romance. Their meet cute at the beginning was EXACLTLY that, and spicy! I wanted more of them then and there. Their chemistry was off the charts that first night, so moving forward, you already knew there was going to be a lot of tension in everything that they did. I loved every minute of them together!
The Scooby Gang!!! I love how much they're all so connected throughout this series! What I loved most about their friendship's this book, is that they acknowledged that they're getting older, and was spending less time together than they did in previous years. That's truly sign of growing up. It's crippling coming to terms with that in college, because you see everyone start to drift in their separate ways. These characters will be connected forever, though, and their friendship's are strong! I can't wait to see where life takes them next!
Nina... That cliff hanger... PLEASE!
Professor x Student
10 Year Age Gap
Missed Connection
Grumpy x Sunshine
Forced Proximity
Secret Yearning
He Falls First + Harder
Small Town College Setting
Dual POV
Thank you, Nina Rey, for this arc in exchange for my review. All thoughts are my own.
May 16, 2026
Hot for the Teacher!!
In the third book of the Driscoll U series, we delve deeper into Emma’s life. She’s one to constantly meddle in the love lives of her friends, all for good reasons of course, but will never give them a bit of her own. Emma comes from a privileged background, but never uses it to her advantage, rather choosing to make her own way and prove that she can do anything she sets her mind to on her own. She’s about to start her senior year at Driscoll U and just got a coveted spot on the university newspaper. A chance encounter with a hot older man after a swanky masquerade party her grandparents forced her to go to in London sets her on fire, and even though they left their brief experience without exchanging so much as real names, she is REELING weeks later when she receives an assignment that another member of the paper who was out sick was supposed to take. She walks in to talk to the new professor that the editorial piece will be focusing on and is knocked off her feet (almost literally) when she realizes this professor is the mystery man from London. Professor Grayson Hayes is a world renowned chef, having opened a few very successful restaurants, who post divorce is taking a new career trajectory into teaching in the Driscoll U Culinary Dept. and creating a new soup kitchen for the community. The last thing he needs is some 21 year old jumping in and changing his life. As the two continue meeting to work on the editorial piece, emotions start to come to the surface. They both know that this relationship should be off limits, at the very least because of the university policy relating to students and teachers, but neither of them can deny what they’re feeling.
I really loved the first 85% of this book. The whole do they, don’t they of it all; the auxiliary characters really showing how much love they have for the characters; the fact that they’re all billionaires who seem to be really good people’ all great. But the end of the book just felt rushed and a little too cheesy for the beginning of the book for me. After building up what a strong character Emma was for the whole book, she sort of played into the weak woman who falls for her man thing. I know she slaps him and I know she makes him wait a day, but it still felt a little bleh to me. Still enjoyed the book and would recommend it with that caveat. Plus the whole book is fairly spicy so who cares, right?
TROPES:
Age gap
professor/student
Dual POV
She falls first/he falls harder
grumpy/sunshine
Spicy
Good banter
I received an ARC of this book and am leading my honest review. Thank you Luna Literary and Nina Rey for the opportunity!
In the third book of the Driscoll U series, we delve deeper into Emma’s life. She’s one to constantly meddle in the love lives of her friends, all for good reasons of course, but will never give them a bit of her own. Emma comes from a privileged background, but never uses it to her advantage, rather choosing to make her own way and prove that she can do anything she sets her mind to on her own. She’s about to start her senior year at Driscoll U and just got a coveted spot on the university newspaper. A chance encounter with a hot older man after a swanky masquerade party her grandparents forced her to go to in London sets her on fire, and even though they left their brief experience without exchanging so much as real names, she is REELING weeks later when she receives an assignment that another member of the paper who was out sick was supposed to take. She walks in to talk to the new professor that the editorial piece will be focusing on and is knocked off her feet (almost literally) when she realizes this professor is the mystery man from London. Professor Grayson Hayes is a world renowned chef, having opened a few very successful restaurants, who post divorce is taking a new career trajectory into teaching in the Driscoll U Culinary Dept. and creating a new soup kitchen for the community. The last thing he needs is some 21 year old jumping in and changing his life. As the two continue meeting to work on the editorial piece, emotions start to come to the surface. They both know that this relationship should be off limits, at the very least because of the university policy relating to students and teachers, but neither of them can deny what they’re feeling.
I really loved the first 85% of this book. The whole do they, don’t they of it all; the auxiliary characters really showing how much love they have for the characters; the fact that they’re all billionaires who seem to be really good people’ all great. But the end of the book just felt rushed and a little too cheesy for the beginning of the book for me. After building up what a strong character Emma was for the whole book, she sort of played into the weak woman who falls for her man thing. I know she slaps him and I know she makes him wait a day, but it still felt a little bleh to me. Still enjoyed the book and would recommend it with that caveat. Plus the whole book is fairly spicy so who cares, right?
TROPES:
Age gap
professor/student
Dual POV
She falls first/he falls harder
grumpy/sunshine
Spicy
Good banter
I received an ARC of this book and am leading my honest review. Thank you Luna Literary and Nina Rey for the opportunity!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Emma and Grayson meet at a party and the sparks are INSTANT. So when Emma runs into him again later and realizes he’s actually a professor at her university, it’s clear that things are about to get complicated real fast. Especially when she ends up interviewing him for the school newspaper and they’re both trying very hard to maintain some level of professionalism while also absolutely not forgetting the way they felt when they first met.
Y’all, the push and pull in this book? SO. GOOD. What I really liked about the professor/student dynamic here was that it didn’t lean too heavily into the usual super forbidden angle of the trope. Instead, it gave them room to actually get to know each other and build something real, which made their relationship feel a lot more natural and grounded.
“It’s you. It’s always been and will always be you”
Emma was such a good FMC. She’s headstrong, confident, and knows exactly who she is, which I loved. My girl was not out here acting confused or insecure every other chapter. She really held her own and felt very grounded and mature throughout the whole story.
And Grayson…ugh man what are you doing (which coincidnently was also what he was internally asking himself haha). This man had his walls UP and honestly, for good reason. But underneath all of that, he was just the best. What I appreciated most was that he never felt like one of those weird power-tripping professors who constantly reminds you they’re older or in charge or using it as a kink. If anything, he felt really approachable and youthful despite being in his thirties, which made their dynamic feel so much more balanced and believable.
This series just keeps getting better and better honestly. Nina Rey really gave us the best one yet with this book. And now I’m sitting here both excited and emotional because Jake’s book is next, which means the Scooby gang era is slowly coming to a close 😭 It feels bittersweet watching this close-knit group slowly find their people and get their happy endings, but I’m loving every second of it.
Y’all, the push and pull in this book? SO. GOOD. What I really liked about the professor/student dynamic here was that it didn’t lean too heavily into the usual super forbidden angle of the trope. Instead, it gave them room to actually get to know each other and build something real, which made their relationship feel a lot more natural and grounded.
“It’s you. It’s always been and will always be you”
Emma was such a good FMC. She’s headstrong, confident, and knows exactly who she is, which I loved. My girl was not out here acting confused or insecure every other chapter. She really held her own and felt very grounded and mature throughout the whole story.
And Grayson…ugh man what are you doing (which coincidnently was also what he was internally asking himself haha). This man had his walls UP and honestly, for good reason. But underneath all of that, he was just the best. What I appreciated most was that he never felt like one of those weird power-tripping professors who constantly reminds you they’re older or in charge or using it as a kink. If anything, he felt really approachable and youthful despite being in his thirties, which made their dynamic feel so much more balanced and believable.
This series just keeps getting better and better honestly. Nina Rey really gave us the best one yet with this book. And now I’m sitting here both excited and emotional because Jake’s book is next, which means the Scooby gang era is slowly coming to a close 😭 It feels bittersweet watching this close-knit group slowly find their people and get their happy endings, but I’m loving every second of it.
May 29, 2026
This is my first read by Nina Rey, and I absolutely loved every second of The Best Venture. The story starts with Emma and Grayson meeting in London. It’s a one night stand situation, but to their surprise they both make their way back to America at the same school, except Grayson is the teacher and Emma is still a student. Emma is a journalist at the university's paper and has the opportunity for a cover story writing about Grayson, who is a very popular chef. They spend most of their time fighting their attraction for one another because of the student/teacher situation, but end up giving in to each other multiple times. By the end, Grayson finally admits his true feelings for Emma, but they arent going to report anything to the university until the beginning of next semester. Their relationship comes to a halt when someone reports them prior to her article going live. This is where the story sort of felt a little frustrating. I don’t love the way Grayson responded to getting caught, and it seemed like a bit of an overreaction for the situation. That is my only complaint about the entire story. Otherwise, it was SOOOOO spicy 5/5. The scenes of the two of them together were perfectly written, spicy, and sweet, and I could reread them over and over again.
“Finally, he turns his head towards me, and my knees almost give out as I see the face that’s been haunting my dreams since July.”
“Not unless I can write about your fingers inside of me.”
“Is he serious? Is he jealous? And what are we? In high school?”
“Letting my personal feelings get in the way of my job.”
“I would’ve kissed her properly after taking her home, and fucked her all night once she was ready, but that’s not an option right now.”
“Fuck Princess. She looks at me with wide, light blue eyes. You’re in my car. I point to myself. I’m Grayson, you know, the guy you fingered yourself in front of?”
“A love that consumes me, sex that fulfills all my fantasies, and a man who would get on his knees to beg for my forgiveness if the time ever came.”
“Finally, he turns his head towards me, and my knees almost give out as I see the face that’s been haunting my dreams since July.”
“Not unless I can write about your fingers inside of me.”
“Is he serious? Is he jealous? And what are we? In high school?”
“Letting my personal feelings get in the way of my job.”
“I would’ve kissed her properly after taking her home, and fucked her all night once she was ready, but that’s not an option right now.”
“Fuck Princess. She looks at me with wide, light blue eyes. You’re in my car. I point to myself. I’m Grayson, you know, the guy you fingered yourself in front of?”
“A love that consumes me, sex that fulfills all my fantasies, and a man who would get on his knees to beg for my forgiveness if the time ever came.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoy Nina's writing and I was super excited when I saw book 3 was finally here! I love getting to see the previous characters still and can't help but continue to adore them. This time we have their friend Emma we're following. I absolutely loved the banter we get in this book and the major tension we get and pure enjoyment when it finally SNAPS.
Emma is a hard worker. She gets a spot at Driscoll U Newspaper. Luck would have it though that someone is sick, and she covers for an interview and never imagined that the person she would meet she's already met. I love watching her and Grayson navigate what they are to each other and figuring out just how to make things work.
Grayson is the grumpy Professor at Driscoll U and when Emma walked into the interview that's definitely not who he was expecting. Now all the thoughts of what happened in London are right there. Now he's navigating how to keep professional boundaries but also having those consuming thoughts back right front and center which make for some hurdles for him while he is a professor but also not hers. a 10-year difference on top of it he never expected that an interview would lead her right back to him.
I love watching the Scooby Gang together again is Jake. All the characters have life as we've previously met them and continue seeing them which I love. Grayson and Emma though are both secretive in what has happened with each other for professional reasons of course. I love watching them open up and really get to know each other. I'm super excited to find out who exactly Jake ends up with as I have a pretty good guess and cannot wait to see if I am right.
If you like a college setting, age gap, professor x student (not his) relationship I definitely recommend this one. If you enjoy seeing continuous cameos from previous characters as much as I do, then also this one.
Emma is a hard worker. She gets a spot at Driscoll U Newspaper. Luck would have it though that someone is sick, and she covers for an interview and never imagined that the person she would meet she's already met. I love watching her and Grayson navigate what they are to each other and figuring out just how to make things work.
Grayson is the grumpy Professor at Driscoll U and when Emma walked into the interview that's definitely not who he was expecting. Now all the thoughts of what happened in London are right there. Now he's navigating how to keep professional boundaries but also having those consuming thoughts back right front and center which make for some hurdles for him while he is a professor but also not hers. a 10-year difference on top of it he never expected that an interview would lead her right back to him.
I love watching the Scooby Gang together again is Jake. All the characters have life as we've previously met them and continue seeing them which I love. Grayson and Emma though are both secretive in what has happened with each other for professional reasons of course. I love watching them open up and really get to know each other. I'm super excited to find out who exactly Jake ends up with as I have a pretty good guess and cannot wait to see if I am right.
If you like a college setting, age gap, professor x student (not his) relationship I definitely recommend this one. If you enjoy seeing continuous cameos from previous characters as much as I do, then also this one.
May 15, 2026
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest, voluntary review.
4.25 stars. Book 3 of the Driscoll U Diaries interconnected romance series. This installment we get Emma's story. She's vivacious and driven, privileged but never a spoiled princess, and carefully private about her love life. She has a random, passionate meeting with a tall, dark stranger and although she can't stop thinking about him, believes she'll never see him again... well those are famous last words. Finally getting her one shot at the college paper, her biggest dream and goal to be an editor for, she gets an interview with the elusive and sexy chef turned professor, who just so happens to be her mystery man.
The complex power dynamic between this couple was very well written. Honestly, even with the decade age gap and the status differences, it felt like our FMC held onto her power well and for the most part the MMC never pushed. It helped that their socioeconomic statuses were aligned and they both had pain and loss in their pasts to support that their life experiences were very similar so their connection made a lot of sense. I loved the scenes where Emma took charge and Greyson let go, and he "whimpers" for her. Nothing is hotter than when a strong, competent and alpha man lets the woman take the reins. It shows now only her strength but his confidence and comfort.
This love story felt grounded in reality with all the messiness that comes from falling for someone you maybe shouldn't. We got to see real mistakes that people make all the time, but then see what is done to try to take ownership for actions and fix hurts that may have been caused. This series has continued to gain momentum and I really hope we get the fourth and final of the friend groups story soon. The final words in the epilogue about Jake have left me begging for more.
4.25 stars. Book 3 of the Driscoll U Diaries interconnected romance series. This installment we get Emma's story. She's vivacious and driven, privileged but never a spoiled princess, and carefully private about her love life. She has a random, passionate meeting with a tall, dark stranger and although she can't stop thinking about him, believes she'll never see him again... well those are famous last words. Finally getting her one shot at the college paper, her biggest dream and goal to be an editor for, she gets an interview with the elusive and sexy chef turned professor, who just so happens to be her mystery man.
The complex power dynamic between this couple was very well written. Honestly, even with the decade age gap and the status differences, it felt like our FMC held onto her power well and for the most part the MMC never pushed. It helped that their socioeconomic statuses were aligned and they both had pain and loss in their pasts to support that their life experiences were very similar so their connection made a lot of sense. I loved the scenes where Emma took charge and Greyson let go, and he "whimpers" for her. Nothing is hotter than when a strong, competent and alpha man lets the woman take the reins. It shows now only her strength but his confidence and comfort.
This love story felt grounded in reality with all the messiness that comes from falling for someone you maybe shouldn't. We got to see real mistakes that people make all the time, but then see what is done to try to take ownership for actions and fix hurts that may have been caused. This series has continued to gain momentum and I really hope we get the fourth and final of the friend groups story soon. The final words in the epilogue about Jake have left me begging for more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2026
So this was actually so cute but made me cry and laugh and sob and swoon - essentially all the feels.
***side note: I did not read any of the books of this series before this one and I absolutely love that she included a little run down of the important characters in the beginning and who they were with/what book as a little catchup, I think this should be normalized because that was so helpful***
I’m not usually down for a professor x student romance but I was generously offered this ARC and couldn’t say no with how enticing the storyline was!
I like that she wasn’t actually his student. I absolutely LOVED how they met and that first night they spent together. The tension of them meeting again, the banter and push and pull made me feel like I was the FMC because I was so invested. Grayson mouth kept me hot and his dirty talk sent me for spirals I wasn’t expecting.
The cute dates and getting to know each other. The soup kitchen. THE SOUP KITCHEN OFFICE! I love that Emma is strong and independent but not afraid to rely on a guy why still holding her dependence. She doesn’t need a man but she wants THAT man and I can’t blame her.
My one and only complaint is that she teased a professor x student fantasy and didn’t follow through with it which crushed my soul because I thought we’d get it in the epilogue 🥹 #ineeditnow
Anyways I thought the flow to this book was really good, it took a bit for the third act breakup to hit and they wat she goes about it made me impatient but it was so real and I loved and hated that 💔
Honorable Mentions:
- lifting her into the truck. Every. Damn. Time.
- the lake scene
- the “fuck it moment” (I’m such a sucker for this)
- the giftsss (we love a man that pays attention to detail)
- the friend group and how supportive they are!!
- THE DEDICATION
- his confession at the end of the book 🫶🏻
***side note: I did not read any of the books of this series before this one and I absolutely love that she included a little run down of the important characters in the beginning and who they were with/what book as a little catchup, I think this should be normalized because that was so helpful***
I’m not usually down for a professor x student romance but I was generously offered this ARC and couldn’t say no with how enticing the storyline was!
I like that she wasn’t actually his student. I absolutely LOVED how they met and that first night they spent together. The tension of them meeting again, the banter and push and pull made me feel like I was the FMC because I was so invested. Grayson mouth kept me hot and his dirty talk sent me for spirals I wasn’t expecting.
The cute dates and getting to know each other. The soup kitchen. THE SOUP KITCHEN OFFICE! I love that Emma is strong and independent but not afraid to rely on a guy why still holding her dependence. She doesn’t need a man but she wants THAT man and I can’t blame her.
My one and only complaint is that she teased a professor x student fantasy and didn’t follow through with it which crushed my soul because I thought we’d get it in the epilogue 🥹 #ineeditnow
Anyways I thought the flow to this book was really good, it took a bit for the third act breakup to hit and they wat she goes about it made me impatient but it was so real and I loved and hated that 💔
Honorable Mentions:
- lifting her into the truck. Every. Damn. Time.
- the lake scene
- the “fuck it moment” (I’m such a sucker for this)
- the giftsss (we love a man that pays attention to detail)
- the friend group and how supportive they are!!
- THE DEDICATION
- his confession at the end of the book 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I have absolutely LOVED this series so far and I'm still debating if this one beats The Last Promise. It's a close call as I loved them both so much for completely different reasons.
I had a feeling Emma's story would be interesting, but DAMN! Meeting a gorgeous, mysterious older man at a fancy party, having one incredible night knowing you'll never see each other again, only to find out a couple months later that he is one of the new Professors at your Uni. I mean, that alone speaks for itself, but here are some tropes if you need a little more convincing 👀
- forbidden romance
- professor x student
- age gap
- second chance
- grumpy x sunshine
The gang were not ready for the love story Emma decided to bring to the table. Especially considering how closed off she is. The whole book was fun, flirty, forbidden and engaging from start to finish.
I adored Emma. She was strong, independent, worked hard to achieve her dreams, and new her worth. Emma never changed who she was to fit other people's expectations. She knew who she was and was proud of herself for it. Emma is incredibly mature, and I felt she handles this while situation better than Grayson did 😂
Grayson rushed through life too quickly in my opinion. That works well for others, but it obviously wasn't what he needed. Grayson is now making a new life for himself, but his plans have been derailed after meeting mystery girl. It annoyed me sometimes how undecisive he was, but I also understood that this was a big step for him as he was just out of a VERY long relationship. If Emma wasn't so head strong and mature, I would think she was being strung along, but they both knew what they were getting into from the beginning.
The communication between the two of them was one of my favourite parts. They communicated very well, set boundaries, knew their limits and acted like two grown adults which was so refreshing. I wouldn't have expected any less. I think it would have ruined Emma's character otherwise.
Thank you so much to the author and Luna Literacy for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
I had a feeling Emma's story would be interesting, but DAMN! Meeting a gorgeous, mysterious older man at a fancy party, having one incredible night knowing you'll never see each other again, only to find out a couple months later that he is one of the new Professors at your Uni. I mean, that alone speaks for itself, but here are some tropes if you need a little more convincing 👀
- forbidden romance
- professor x student
- age gap
- second chance
- grumpy x sunshine
The gang were not ready for the love story Emma decided to bring to the table. Especially considering how closed off she is. The whole book was fun, flirty, forbidden and engaging from start to finish.
I adored Emma. She was strong, independent, worked hard to achieve her dreams, and new her worth. Emma never changed who she was to fit other people's expectations. She knew who she was and was proud of herself for it. Emma is incredibly mature, and I felt she handles this while situation better than Grayson did 😂
Grayson rushed through life too quickly in my opinion. That works well for others, but it obviously wasn't what he needed. Grayson is now making a new life for himself, but his plans have been derailed after meeting mystery girl. It annoyed me sometimes how undecisive he was, but I also understood that this was a big step for him as he was just out of a VERY long relationship. If Emma wasn't so head strong and mature, I would think she was being strung along, but they both knew what they were getting into from the beginning.
The communication between the two of them was one of my favourite parts. They communicated very well, set boundaries, knew their limits and acted like two grown adults which was so refreshing. I wouldn't have expected any less. I think it would have ruined Emma's character otherwise.
Thank you so much to the author and Luna Literacy for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
May 30, 2026
"...there's no point in hiding what neither of us regrets."
Emma & Grayson. They briefly meet, there's definitely an attraction, but their time is up and much like Cinderella, she runs off into the night. Fast forward to the beginning of her next semester at college, excited to be on the staff of the school newspaper and who shows up? You guessed it. The mystery man from the summer.
The Driscoll U Diaries series has been one of my favorite college series. I love the way Nina Rey weaves the personalities and differences of all her characters, they are all consistently what they are. They are young but show maturity but you can also see the young 20-something in there too. So many times in this book Emma's behavior was truly that of a young woman who shows her hurt in big loud passive aggressive ways and it was absolutely delightful - she is so put together and keeps everything in her life in neat order and then all of the sudden we see under the façade. I LOVE it. It is so real.
These two MCs had wild chemistry, deep feelings, fought for each other - sometimes in ways that weren't super productive, and had to learn to trust each other - and sometimes it was hard (for me mostly). I love Grayson's back story and the fact that he is older than her. He adds a good vibe to their friend group.
Also can we just give applause for the use of the song "Mayores" in the car scene. Well done.
what to expect:
*age gap
*college professor x college student (but he's not her professor, she's a senior)
*hurt/healing
*grumpy x sunshine
*found family
*small town college romance
"I don't like feeling this jealous or possessive over someone I'm not dating. It's new and not entirely welcome."
*I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management.
Emma & Grayson. They briefly meet, there's definitely an attraction, but their time is up and much like Cinderella, she runs off into the night. Fast forward to the beginning of her next semester at college, excited to be on the staff of the school newspaper and who shows up? You guessed it. The mystery man from the summer.
The Driscoll U Diaries series has been one of my favorite college series. I love the way Nina Rey weaves the personalities and differences of all her characters, they are all consistently what they are. They are young but show maturity but you can also see the young 20-something in there too. So many times in this book Emma's behavior was truly that of a young woman who shows her hurt in big loud passive aggressive ways and it was absolutely delightful - she is so put together and keeps everything in her life in neat order and then all of the sudden we see under the façade. I LOVE it. It is so real.
These two MCs had wild chemistry, deep feelings, fought for each other - sometimes in ways that weren't super productive, and had to learn to trust each other - and sometimes it was hard (for me mostly). I love Grayson's back story and the fact that he is older than her. He adds a good vibe to their friend group.
Also can we just give applause for the use of the song "Mayores" in the car scene. Well done.
what to expect:
*age gap
*college professor x college student (but he's not her professor, she's a senior)
*hurt/healing
*grumpy x sunshine
*found family
*small town college romance
"I don't like feeling this jealous or possessive over someone I'm not dating. It's new and not entirely welcome."
*I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author and Luna Literary Management.
May 30, 2026
ＴＨＥ ＢＥＳＴ ＶＥＮＴＵＲＥ
ⒶⓇⒸ ⓇⒺⓋⒾⒺⓌ
☆☆☆☆☆
“𝙒𝙚’𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧.”
Reading this book was like coming home drunk on heels. I never knew where I was going to end up or how I was going to feel the very next minute. And honestly? I kind of loved it. Emma and Grayson's storyline and love life are complete chaos mixed with sprinkles and dashes of hope and curiosity. Getting to read about them not only figuring out their lives together but also alone was so meaningful. I loved getting to see sides of Grayson that only his siblings and Emma got to see, and the same for Emma. Getting to see Emma share sides of herself she only showed 100% and completely to Grayson was beautiful and so well-written and thought out. Nina did an amazing job showing their strengths and weaknesses. I literally adored them and how Nina wrote them.
This was my first Nina book, so I went in completely blind, but let me tell you, she knows what the heck she is doing. I was hooked, line, and sinker (is that how you say that? Idk, but I'm going with it, hehe). It was so fun and very, very chaotic, like I said. I was actually going insane about 95% of the time🙂 now, now, don't get scared. It was mostly good because, honestly, they were so funny and I loved everyone's dynamic throughout it. I really do recommend this one! Because, honestly, who doesn't love a hot chef professor daddy and a sassy, brilliant blonde bombshell? Exactly. No one can say they don't, so boom. Go enjoy this one, you kinky baddies. Because it sure is kinky. I mean, he's got slutty glasses and she has a smart mouth for days..😏
#bookreview #arcread #ninarey #spicyromance #studentprofessorromance
Ps, thank you so much to @lunarliteraryagency & @ninareywrites for the lovely arc copy! I truly adored it!❤️
ⒶⓇⒸ ⓇⒺⓋⒾⒺⓌ
☆☆☆☆☆
“𝙒𝙚’𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧.”
Reading this book was like coming home drunk on heels. I never knew where I was going to end up or how I was going to feel the very next minute. And honestly? I kind of loved it. Emma and Grayson's storyline and love life are complete chaos mixed with sprinkles and dashes of hope and curiosity. Getting to read about them not only figuring out their lives together but also alone was so meaningful. I loved getting to see sides of Grayson that only his siblings and Emma got to see, and the same for Emma. Getting to see Emma share sides of herself she only showed 100% and completely to Grayson was beautiful and so well-written and thought out. Nina did an amazing job showing their strengths and weaknesses. I literally adored them and how Nina wrote them.
This was my first Nina book, so I went in completely blind, but let me tell you, she knows what the heck she is doing. I was hooked, line, and sinker (is that how you say that? Idk, but I'm going with it, hehe). It was so fun and very, very chaotic, like I said. I was actually going insane about 95% of the time🙂 now, now, don't get scared. It was mostly good because, honestly, they were so funny and I loved everyone's dynamic throughout it. I really do recommend this one! Because, honestly, who doesn't love a hot chef professor daddy and a sassy, brilliant blonde bombshell? Exactly. No one can say they don't, so boom. Go enjoy this one, you kinky baddies. Because it sure is kinky. I mean, he's got slutty glasses and she has a smart mouth for days..😏
#bookreview #arcread #ninarey #spicyromance #studentprofessorromance
Ps, thank you so much to @lunarliteraryagency & @ninareywrites for the lovely arc copy! I truly adored it!❤️
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Just Perfect!
The Best Venture is the third book in the Driscoll U Diaries series. I am so glad to be back at Driscoll U, and it’s hard to believe that it’s Emma and her friends' senior year. I was truly excited to see Emma finally get her HEA with Grayson. They first met in London, shared one unforgettable night, never exchanged last names, and thought they would never meet again, just two strangers. However, fate had other plans when, a few months later, Emma steps in for a sick coworker to do an interview for the school newspaper—only to find out that it is her stranger from that night is Grayson.
The chemistry between Emma and Grayson is simply delicious. The tension and intensity are fantastic, leading to some extra-hot, spicy public moments, along with the sneaking around. It’s also wonderful to watch Emma and Grayson truly get to know each other, letting down their walls and being vulnerable with one another.
One of the best parts is seeing the whole gang back together again. The found family dynamic within their friend group has always been strong, and it's heartwarming to witness their growth and how each has found their special person. With graduation approaching, there’s a bittersweet feeling knowing that their time together is coming to an end, but they understand that their friendship will last a lifetime.
Rey has done an amazing job with this series, and I have enjoyed every minute with these characters in this beautifully crafted world. I can’t wait for Jake’s book to come out next!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Best Venture is the third book in the Driscoll U Diaries series. I am so glad to be back at Driscoll U, and it’s hard to believe that it’s Emma and her friends' senior year. I was truly excited to see Emma finally get her HEA with Grayson. They first met in London, shared one unforgettable night, never exchanged last names, and thought they would never meet again, just two strangers. However, fate had other plans when, a few months later, Emma steps in for a sick coworker to do an interview for the school newspaper—only to find out that it is her stranger from that night is Grayson.
The chemistry between Emma and Grayson is simply delicious. The tension and intensity are fantastic, leading to some extra-hot, spicy public moments, along with the sneaking around. It’s also wonderful to watch Emma and Grayson truly get to know each other, letting down their walls and being vulnerable with one another.
One of the best parts is seeing the whole gang back together again. The found family dynamic within their friend group has always been strong, and it's heartwarming to witness their growth and how each has found their special person. With graduation approaching, there’s a bittersweet feeling knowing that their time together is coming to an end, but they understand that their friendship will last a lifetime.
Rey has done an amazing job with this series, and I have enjoyed every minute with these characters in this beautifully crafted world. I can’t wait for Jake’s book to come out next!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2026
**SPOILERS**
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.75/5) | Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️✨ (4.5/5)
If there's one thing Nina Rey is going to do, it's make me immediately request the next ARC.
After loving Book 2 in this series, I had high expectations going into The Best Venture and somehow it still exceeded them.
Emma Haywood is determined to prove herself as a journalist while balancing school, friendships, and her role at the university newspaper. Grayson Hayes is a newly hired professor trying to rebuild his life after a divorce. Their problem? Months earlier, they shared an unforgettable connection before realizing they'd soon be navigating a professor-student relationship.
The chemistry between these two was absolutely undeniable. Every interaction felt charged, whether they were exchanging book recommendations, volunteering together, or simply trying (and failing) to ignore their feelings. The romance was full of tension, longing, and emotional vulnerability, making every payoff feel earned.
What really worked for me was that Grayson wasn't just an "older guy" romance hero. His volunteer work, his devotion to his family, and the way he remembered every little thing Emma shared made him feel layered and genuine. Emma was equally easy to root for - smart, ambitious, and determined to succeed on her own merits.
I also loved the bookstore references, the food history elements, the friendship dynamics, and the way Charlotte's memory remained woven throughout the story.
My only frustrations came from Grayson's occasional hot-and-cold behavior and the communication breakdown during their separation. Sir... a text message exists. Use it.
Still, the emotional payoff, the grand gestures, and the character growth completely won me over.
This was romantic, emotional, frustrating in the best way, and impossible to put down.
Thank you to Nina Rey and Luna Literary for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.75/5) | Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️✨ (4.5/5)
If there's one thing Nina Rey is going to do, it's make me immediately request the next ARC.
After loving Book 2 in this series, I had high expectations going into The Best Venture and somehow it still exceeded them.
Emma Haywood is determined to prove herself as a journalist while balancing school, friendships, and her role at the university newspaper. Grayson Hayes is a newly hired professor trying to rebuild his life after a divorce. Their problem? Months earlier, they shared an unforgettable connection before realizing they'd soon be navigating a professor-student relationship.
The chemistry between these two was absolutely undeniable. Every interaction felt charged, whether they were exchanging book recommendations, volunteering together, or simply trying (and failing) to ignore their feelings. The romance was full of tension, longing, and emotional vulnerability, making every payoff feel earned.
What really worked for me was that Grayson wasn't just an "older guy" romance hero. His volunteer work, his devotion to his family, and the way he remembered every little thing Emma shared made him feel layered and genuine. Emma was equally easy to root for - smart, ambitious, and determined to succeed on her own merits.
I also loved the bookstore references, the food history elements, the friendship dynamics, and the way Charlotte's memory remained woven throughout the story.
My only frustrations came from Grayson's occasional hot-and-cold behavior and the communication breakdown during their separation. Sir... a text message exists. Use it.
Still, the emotional payoff, the grand gestures, and the character growth completely won me over.
This was romantic, emotional, frustrating in the best way, and impossible to put down.
Thank you to Nina Rey and Luna Literary for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2026
I honestly loved this book so much 😭
The slow burn tension, the forbidden romance aspect, and the emotional connection between Emma and Grayson made this such an addictive read.
Emma is trying to balance college life, work, friendships, and proving herself while chasing her dream in journalism. Then Grayson unexpectedly walks back into her life… except now he’s her professor 👀
And the chemistry between them was THERE from the very beginning.
The age gap and professor/student dynamic added so much tension to the story, but what I really loved was how emotional and grounded their relationship felt underneath all of it.
Grayson is 31 while Emma is 21, but Emma never felt immature. She was determined, hardworking, and emotionally aware in a way that made their relationship believable instead of forced.
And Grayson 😭
You could genuinely feel how conflicted he was while still caring deeply about Emma. The yearning in this book was honestly one of my favorite parts.
This was definitely a slower burn romance, but the payoff made it worth it because the emotional build-up between them kept getting stronger and stronger.
I also loved the found family aspects throughout the story because it added warmth and comfort to the heavier emotional moments.
If you love:
✨ Professor x student
✨ Forbidden romance
✨ Slow burn tension
✨ Age gap romance
✨ Found family
✨ Emotional chemistry
then this is definitely worth picking up.
⭐️ Overall Rating: 4.5/5
🔥 Burn Level: 4/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 4/5
Thank you to @lunaliterarymanagement for the opportunity to read and review this book 🤍
The slow burn tension, the forbidden romance aspect, and the emotional connection between Emma and Grayson made this such an addictive read.
Emma is trying to balance college life, work, friendships, and proving herself while chasing her dream in journalism. Then Grayson unexpectedly walks back into her life… except now he’s her professor 👀
And the chemistry between them was THERE from the very beginning.
The age gap and professor/student dynamic added so much tension to the story, but what I really loved was how emotional and grounded their relationship felt underneath all of it.
Grayson is 31 while Emma is 21, but Emma never felt immature. She was determined, hardworking, and emotionally aware in a way that made their relationship believable instead of forced.
And Grayson 😭
You could genuinely feel how conflicted he was while still caring deeply about Emma. The yearning in this book was honestly one of my favorite parts.
This was definitely a slower burn romance, but the payoff made it worth it because the emotional build-up between them kept getting stronger and stronger.
I also loved the found family aspects throughout the story because it added warmth and comfort to the heavier emotional moments.
If you love:
✨ Professor x student
✨ Forbidden romance
✨ Slow burn tension
✨ Age gap romance
✨ Found family
✨ Emotional chemistry
then this is definitely worth picking up.
⭐️ Overall Rating: 4.5/5
🔥 Burn Level: 4/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 4/5
Thank you to @lunaliterarymanagement for the opportunity to read and review this book 🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Best Venture by Nina Rey was such an addictive and emotional read for me. From the very first chapter I was completely hooked on Emma and Grayson’s story. Their chemistry was undeniable and every interaction between them had so much tension, longing, and emotion that I could not stop turning the pages.
Emma was such a relatable FMC because she is trying so hard to prove herself while balancing school, friendships, and chasing her dreams as a journalist. I loved watching her growth throughout the story and seeing her fight for what she wanted. Grayson completely stole my heart. He is protective, complicated, caring, and carrying so much emotional weight while trying to rebuild his life. The connection between them felt so natural and intense at the same time.
The way Nina Rey wrote their reunion after that unforgettable summer night was absolutely perfect. The forbidden aspect added so much tension without taking away from the emotional depth of the story. I loved how the book balanced romance, angst, personal growth, and all those little moments that make you fall in love with characters.
This book gave me butterflies, frustration, emotional moments, and all the chemistry I could ask for. I honestly did not want it to end. If you love college romance with emotional depth, tension filled chemistry, an older professor, and a story that keeps you invested from beginning to end, you absolutely need to pick this one up.
Definitely a 5 star read for me and I cannot wait to read more from Nina Rey.
Emma was such a relatable FMC because she is trying so hard to prove herself while balancing school, friendships, and chasing her dreams as a journalist. I loved watching her growth throughout the story and seeing her fight for what she wanted. Grayson completely stole my heart. He is protective, complicated, caring, and carrying so much emotional weight while trying to rebuild his life. The connection between them felt so natural and intense at the same time.
The way Nina Rey wrote their reunion after that unforgettable summer night was absolutely perfect. The forbidden aspect added so much tension without taking away from the emotional depth of the story. I loved how the book balanced romance, angst, personal growth, and all those little moments that make you fall in love with characters.
This book gave me butterflies, frustration, emotional moments, and all the chemistry I could ask for. I honestly did not want it to end. If you love college romance with emotional depth, tension filled chemistry, an older professor, and a story that keeps you invested from beginning to end, you absolutely need to pick this one up.
Definitely a 5 star read for me and I cannot wait to read more from Nina Rey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into The Best Venture without reading the first two books in the Driscoll U series, and I can confirm this absolutely works as a standalone romance. Now I desperately want to go back and read the others because I already love this friend group dynamic.
This story follows Emma, a senior and journalist for her university newspaper, and Grayson Hayes, the new culinary professor who unknowingly reconnects with the girl from one unforgettable summer night in London. The tension starts immediately and honestly never lets up.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Emma and Grayson. Their banter felt natural, the attraction was believable, and the secrecy of their relationship added just enough angst without becoming overly dramatic. I also loved the music element throughout the book and appreciated the inclusion of the playlist because it genuinely enhanced the reading experience.
Grayson’s first POV chapter deserves special recognition because I laughed so hard I almost woke my entire house up. One page. One word. Absolute perfection.
While I enjoyed both characters, I do wish the story had included more chapters from Grayson’s perspective. The book leans heavily into Emma’s POV, and I found myself wanting more insight into Grayson’s thoughts and emotional journey, especially considering how compelling his character was.
Overall, this was a fun, steamy, emotionally entertaining college romance with great chemistry, lovable friendships, and enough tension to keep me turning pages. And based on that ending, I am already ready for book four and the final friend’s story.
This story follows Emma, a senior and journalist for her university newspaper, and Grayson Hayes, the new culinary professor who unknowingly reconnects with the girl from one unforgettable summer night in London. The tension starts immediately and honestly never lets up.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Emma and Grayson. Their banter felt natural, the attraction was believable, and the secrecy of their relationship added just enough angst without becoming overly dramatic. I also loved the music element throughout the book and appreciated the inclusion of the playlist because it genuinely enhanced the reading experience.
Grayson’s first POV chapter deserves special recognition because I laughed so hard I almost woke my entire house up. One page. One word. Absolute perfection.
While I enjoyed both characters, I do wish the story had included more chapters from Grayson’s perspective. The book leans heavily into Emma’s POV, and I found myself wanting more insight into Grayson’s thoughts and emotional journey, especially considering how compelling his character was.
Overall, this was a fun, steamy, emotionally entertaining college romance with great chemistry, lovable friendships, and enough tension to keep me turning pages. And based on that ending, I am already ready for book four and the final friend’s story.
May 18, 2026
Summer fling…turns out to be a professor at her college 🩵
Emma getting her own love story is so damn exciting! And with a hot professor too? Yes please. I have been looking forward to her story since finishing Levi’s, and Nina did not disappoint. A summer fling during an event leads to Emma and Grayson constantly thinking about one another, only to realize that he has now taken a position as a culinary professor at her college. Due to her job with the college newspaper, she takes over the job of interviewing him when the original reporter ended up sick. Thus leading to a deeper story, and the two spending two months together while she researches and works with him. I felt her frustration at one point when he kept keeping her at arms length, and I just shook my phone saying “just make it official already!” But I get it. He was dealing with his own shizz. We’ve all been there. Seeing how he was so in love with her though, even before the words were exchanged, this man was just out here trying to do what he thought was right, even if he kept screwing it up. The way Nina told their story had me hooked so quick, it was unreal. I loved the first two, but I don’t think they pulled me in as quick as book 3 did. I absolutely cannot wait for Jake’s book, because I’m sorry, that ending!? Nina, that should be illegal to leave us hanging like that because WHAT DO YOU MEAN!?! But Emma and Greyson’s story was just so freakin cute. It was definitely worth the wait for this one.
Emma getting her own love story is so damn exciting! And with a hot professor too? Yes please. I have been looking forward to her story since finishing Levi’s, and Nina did not disappoint. A summer fling during an event leads to Emma and Grayson constantly thinking about one another, only to realize that he has now taken a position as a culinary professor at her college. Due to her job with the college newspaper, she takes over the job of interviewing him when the original reporter ended up sick. Thus leading to a deeper story, and the two spending two months together while she researches and works with him. I felt her frustration at one point when he kept keeping her at arms length, and I just shook my phone saying “just make it official already!” But I get it. He was dealing with his own shizz. We’ve all been there. Seeing how he was so in love with her though, even before the words were exchanged, this man was just out here trying to do what he thought was right, even if he kept screwing it up. The way Nina told their story had me hooked so quick, it was unreal. I loved the first two, but I don’t think they pulled me in as quick as book 3 did. I absolutely cannot wait for Jake’s book, because I’m sorry, that ending!? Nina, that should be illegal to leave us hanging like that because WHAT DO YOU MEAN!?! But Emma and Greyson’s story was just so freakin cute. It was definitely worth the wait for this one.
May 25, 2026
I want to start off this review by thanking Nina Rey for adding me to her ARC team. This book was a phenomenal read and I can’t wait to read about Jake’s book next. Which I’m praying it is about him 😈🖤😈
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨Professor x Student
✨10 Year Age Gap
✨Missed Connection
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Forced Proximity
✨Secret Yearning
✨He Falls First + Harder
✨Small Town
✨College Setting
✨Dual POV
📖The Best Venture is actually book 3 of the Driscoll U Diaries, each book follows one of the core friend groups that call themselves “the Scooby Gang” (the name isn’t solidified u til book 2 during Halloween 😂).
📖The Best Venture follows the sassy, spicy, hardworking, powerhouse of a FMC, our “Princess” 😉 Emma. Emma is the freaking best, I love her passion, dedication, work ethic, moral compass, etc.
Everyone, I’m sorry but somehow I love the MMC even more.
Grayson Hayes, oops I meant Ace, oops darn it, I meant Professor Hayes. 😈 Guess you all will have to read and will further understand the confusion 🤷♀️ haha.
Ether way, I fell for this guy from the start and loved every second of how their story played out. I won’t give spoilers away but I loved this book series so much. I loved the build up of the story, the fall out, and then the recovery. Dang that recovery was perfect but let’s get down and dirty. Which these two characters 💯 did. This book was so spicy 🌶️ 🥵 and I devoured it. The lake scene made my heart squeeze.
Can’t wait to read the next book! That epilogue ended with a bang, so I’m hoping it’s about Jake! Keep us posted Nina!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨Professor x Student
✨10 Year Age Gap
✨Missed Connection
✨Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Forced Proximity
✨Secret Yearning
✨He Falls First + Harder
✨Small Town
✨College Setting
✨Dual POV
📖The Best Venture is actually book 3 of the Driscoll U Diaries, each book follows one of the core friend groups that call themselves “the Scooby Gang” (the name isn’t solidified u til book 2 during Halloween 😂).
📖The Best Venture follows the sassy, spicy, hardworking, powerhouse of a FMC, our “Princess” 😉 Emma. Emma is the freaking best, I love her passion, dedication, work ethic, moral compass, etc.
Everyone, I’m sorry but somehow I love the MMC even more.
Grayson Hayes, oops I meant Ace, oops darn it, I meant Professor Hayes. 😈 Guess you all will have to read and will further understand the confusion 🤷♀️ haha.
Ether way, I fell for this guy from the start and loved every second of how their story played out. I won’t give spoilers away but I loved this book series so much. I loved the build up of the story, the fall out, and then the recovery. Dang that recovery was perfect but let’s get down and dirty. Which these two characters 💯 did. This book was so spicy 🌶️ 🥵 and I devoured it. The lake scene made my heart squeeze.
Can’t wait to read the next book! That epilogue ended with a bang, so I’m hoping it’s about Jake! Keep us posted Nina!
May 26, 2026
God did it feel SO good to jump back into the Driscoll Diaries. I am so thankful to have received this arc. Now I will admit this is NOT my favorite, but it was so entertaining and fun to be going around the friend group and seeing the character cameos from the first two previous books.
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Miscommunication
Professor x Student
Age Gap
Hidden Identity
This started off SO strong and the ending had my jaw on the floor, but everything in between just seemed to drag out. In the beginning this was giving me ‘Twisted Games’ and a modernized ‘Cinderella’ vibe. But then the ‘Princess Bride’ references were rolling in and I just could care less about that book/movie.
Be warned this is the MOST spiciest book thus far in the Driscoll Diaries series. As a spicy book lover this was a bit overkill for me. The amount of explicit public sex scenes I read… STUNNED.
While I was reading this I was here for the mystery in the beginning but started to only care for the found family aspect. This isn’t a tradition Professor x Student because the FMC was never the MMC’s direct student. I felt it was a bit misperceived and the miscommunication was irritating to me.
I did care for the base of the romance, but wasn’t fully invested. But the two songs stuck in my head that could possibly sum up this book is ‘The Night We Met’ by Lord Huron and ‘Teenage Dream’ by Katy Perry.
Don’t hate me, but even though this one fell under my expectations I will be continuing to read the series.
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Miscommunication
Professor x Student
Age Gap
Hidden Identity
This started off SO strong and the ending had my jaw on the floor, but everything in between just seemed to drag out. In the beginning this was giving me ‘Twisted Games’ and a modernized ‘Cinderella’ vibe. But then the ‘Princess Bride’ references were rolling in and I just could care less about that book/movie.
Be warned this is the MOST spiciest book thus far in the Driscoll Diaries series. As a spicy book lover this was a bit overkill for me. The amount of explicit public sex scenes I read… STUNNED.
While I was reading this I was here for the mystery in the beginning but started to only care for the found family aspect. This isn’t a tradition Professor x Student because the FMC was never the MMC’s direct student. I felt it was a bit misperceived and the miscommunication was irritating to me.
I did care for the base of the romance, but wasn’t fully invested. But the two songs stuck in my head that could possibly sum up this book is ‘The Night We Met’ by Lord Huron and ‘Teenage Dream’ by Katy Perry.
Don’t hate me, but even though this one fell under my expectations I will be continuing to read the series.
May 13, 2026
4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
What to Expect:
📚Age Gap
📰College Setting
📚Professor x Grad Student Reporter
📰Forced Proximity
📚Missed Chance/Second Chance
📰He Whimpers for Her
📚Grumpy x Sunshine
📰Slow Burn
📚Dual POV
Alright, Nina Rey… we need to have a chat. Emma and Grayson’s Age Gap - Forbidden Romance was sooo delicious. I am OBSESSED!!!
So, Emma is a determined journalism student trying to carve out her own path when she unexpectedly reconnects with her mysterious man from one UNFORGETTABLE summer night, only to discover he’s now a professor at her University, and he is to be her target for a front page story in the schools paper. Their chemistry is HOT, with a “MINE” type of vibe!!! As all of this plays out, they fail miserably to ignore their feelings, and even more so to keep their hands off one another. While toying the “line” of ethics, they also “attempt” to navigate the risks, and deal with all the emotional baggage standing in their way.
I loved the mix of grumpy-sunshine energy, it played out so well for each of the characters, while keeping things interesting, and adding in the extra level of tension. HELLOOOO HOTNESSSS!!! Plus Grayson’s complete devotion to Emma had me absolutely SWOONING the entire book. I couldn’t put it down.
A HUGE thank you to Nina Rey and Luna Literary for sending this one over! I absolutely love the Driscoll U Diaries world, and cannot wait for more!!!
-
Loveee this series. Loved this delicious age gap, tension filled love story. Sooo good. RTC!!!
3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
What to Expect:
📚Age Gap
📰College Setting
📚Professor x Grad Student Reporter
📰Forced Proximity
📚Missed Chance/Second Chance
📰He Whimpers for Her
📚Grumpy x Sunshine
📰Slow Burn
📚Dual POV
Alright, Nina Rey… we need to have a chat. Emma and Grayson’s Age Gap - Forbidden Romance was sooo delicious. I am OBSESSED!!!
So, Emma is a determined journalism student trying to carve out her own path when she unexpectedly reconnects with her mysterious man from one UNFORGETTABLE summer night, only to discover he’s now a professor at her University, and he is to be her target for a front page story in the schools paper. Their chemistry is HOT, with a “MINE” type of vibe!!! As all of this plays out, they fail miserably to ignore their feelings, and even more so to keep their hands off one another. While toying the “line” of ethics, they also “attempt” to navigate the risks, and deal with all the emotional baggage standing in their way.
I loved the mix of grumpy-sunshine energy, it played out so well for each of the characters, while keeping things interesting, and adding in the extra level of tension. HELLOOOO HOTNESSSS!!! Plus Grayson’s complete devotion to Emma had me absolutely SWOONING the entire book. I couldn’t put it down.
A HUGE thank you to Nina Rey and Luna Literary for sending this one over! I absolutely love the Driscoll U Diaries world, and cannot wait for more!!!
-
Loveee this series. Loved this delicious age gap, tension filled love story. Sooo good. RTC!!!
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