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The Boys of Elmwood U #3
Crash Course
I came out first. I started dating first. And somehow I’m still single.
My friends have a theory: I just haven’t hit the right trope yet. A blizzard. A fake boyfriend. A tutor I’m not supposed to want. A sworn enemy who’s secretly the love of my life. You know? The sort of stuff that landed every one of them their happily-ever-after.
So now there’s a corkboard in the frat house with my face pinned on it. There’s a points system that calculates my odds of true love to three decimal points. And there are four well-meaning maniacs treating me like a group project.
Every guy they pick is perfect on paper. Brilliant in a romance novel, but a slow death across a dinner table.
Enter Jesse, my childhood best friend, newly transferred to Elmwood U, and the one name nobody thought to pin to the board.
Jesse wants to help. And his roommate is the perfect guy to set me up with, as if those very words aren’t enough to make me want to scream.
But when Jesse’s roommate fails to show up, Jesse takes the empty seat so I won’t sit there alone. The only problem is, he’s nothing like the shy boy I’d hopelessly fallen for once before. He’s like a supernova in the night sky, burning bright and untouchable.
And I’m about to make the same mistake again.
My friends signed me up for a crash course in finding The One.
I never expected to crash straight into him.
My friends have a theory: I just haven’t hit the right trope yet. A blizzard. A fake boyfriend. A tutor I’m not supposed to want. A sworn enemy who’s secretly the love of my life. You know? The sort of stuff that landed every one of them their happily-ever-after.
So now there’s a corkboard in the frat house with my face pinned on it. There’s a points system that calculates my odds of true love to three decimal points. And there are four well-meaning maniacs treating me like a group project.
Every guy they pick is perfect on paper. Brilliant in a romance novel, but a slow death across a dinner table.
Enter Jesse, my childhood best friend, newly transferred to Elmwood U, and the one name nobody thought to pin to the board.
Jesse wants to help. And his roommate is the perfect guy to set me up with, as if those very words aren’t enough to make me want to scream.
But when Jesse’s roommate fails to show up, Jesse takes the empty seat so I won’t sit there alone. The only problem is, he’s nothing like the shy boy I’d hopelessly fallen for once before. He’s like a supernova in the night sky, burning bright and untouchable.
And I’m about to make the same mistake again.
My friends signed me up for a crash course in finding The One.
I never expected to crash straight into him.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 27, 2026
About the author
Hayden Hall
83 books877 followersGay. Sweet. Steamy.
Hayden Hall writes MM romance novels. He is a boyfriend, a globetrotter, and an avid romance reader.
Hayden's mission is to author a catalog of captivating and steamy MM romance novels which gather a devoted community around the Happily Ever Afters.
His stories are sweet with just the right amount of naughty.
You can get in touch with Hayden on Facebook or through his website at haydenhallwrites.com
Hayden Hall writes MM romance novels. He is a boyfriend, a globetrotter, and an avid romance reader.
Hayden's mission is to author a catalog of captivating and steamy MM romance novels which gather a devoted community around the Happily Ever Afters.
His stories are sweet with just the right amount of naughty.
You can get in touch with Hayden on Facebook or through his website at haydenhallwrites.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 27, 2026
This book started as something different. A group of friends playfully helping a frat brother to find love. The antics , dates, slip ups and fails are the stuff of comedic Hallmark movies. The engagement of many romantic tropes and meet cutes discussed, bring to life every thing we as romance readers encounter and enjoy in the books we cherish.
And then the real book starts. The one where lost childhood friends reacquaint and live their beautiful, yet melancholy reattachment. Feelings so obvious become the bricks they build with. A beautiful emotional and intimate story that, once again, Hayden Hall crafted with delicate delivery and warm comfort.
And then the real book starts. The one where lost childhood friends reacquaint and live their beautiful, yet melancholy reattachment. Feelings so obvious become the bricks they build with. A beautiful emotional and intimate story that, once again, Hayden Hall crafted with delicate delivery and warm comfort.
September 8, 2026
I’m so sad we only get three books in this series🥺 I loved these stories so much. They were funny, spicy and so wholesome.
I think this one is my favorite because I’m such a sucker for second chances and best friends to lovers tropes. Seeing two best friends separate because of life’s circumstances and then finding their way back after so many years to finally get together, is one of my favorite things.
Finn had the best friends in the world. The fact that they all worked together to find him someone he could fall in love with was so sweet. Of course, we knew it wouldn’t be all smooth sailing and that there’d be ridiculous outcomes and that’s what made this story so awesome.
Their intentions were pure, things just didn’t pan out the way they hoped 😆 Every date was worse than the first and poor Finn was ready to give it all up. He was better off single than trying to find someone his friends found for him to settle down with.
It wasn’t until one more failed date that everything started falling into place. And it had nothing to do with the date itself but the man who’d set it all up.
Finn had not seen his childhood best friend for years. Them coinciding in the same place seemed like destiny. Jessie was everything to Finn. They were always attached at the hip but when Jesse had to move, they drifted apart.
Being away from Finn was the most painful thing for Jesse. He had not only lost his best friend but the boy he had fallen for. He figured it was easiest to cut him off completely than to hold on to a friendship that neither of them knew if it’d survive the distance.
Seeing Finn again reminded Jesse of his feelings. Ten years had not being enough to get over him. If anything, seeing him all grown up only mad those feelings stronger.
Reconnecting again was easier than Jesse thought possible. Finn was still the sweet, kind person he knew but now he was out and proud. That shouldn’t have mattered to Jesse but he couldn’t deny it gave him hope that there could be something between them.
When Finn’s friends rope him into helping them find the perfect man for Finn, he does exactly that. He provides them with the perfect date even if his heart is breaking. He wishes it was him the one Finn chose to build a life with, but he was too afraid to voice his feelings out loud.
Despite finally having the perfect date, Finn can’t stop thinking about his best friend. Everything he’s ever wanted in a man, Jesse possesses. It took him a minute to realize the person he wanted a future with was Jesse.
Jesse couldn’t believe that his dream of being with Finn was finally a reality. He waited ten years to be with the boy he loved and now, here they were building a future together.
“𝑰’𝒎 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒚. 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒃𝒐𝒚𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒃𝒐𝒚𝒔. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆’𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆. 𝑻𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆’𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒔.”
I highly recommend this series. It’s low angst, super fun with the best friends anyone could ever ask for. Definitely a reread worthy series.
I think this one is my favorite because I’m such a sucker for second chances and best friends to lovers tropes. Seeing two best friends separate because of life’s circumstances and then finding their way back after so many years to finally get together, is one of my favorite things.
Finn had the best friends in the world. The fact that they all worked together to find him someone he could fall in love with was so sweet. Of course, we knew it wouldn’t be all smooth sailing and that there’d be ridiculous outcomes and that’s what made this story so awesome.
Their intentions were pure, things just didn’t pan out the way they hoped 😆 Every date was worse than the first and poor Finn was ready to give it all up. He was better off single than trying to find someone his friends found for him to settle down with.
It wasn’t until one more failed date that everything started falling into place. And it had nothing to do with the date itself but the man who’d set it all up.
Finn had not seen his childhood best friend for years. Them coinciding in the same place seemed like destiny. Jessie was everything to Finn. They were always attached at the hip but when Jesse had to move, they drifted apart.
Being away from Finn was the most painful thing for Jesse. He had not only lost his best friend but the boy he had fallen for. He figured it was easiest to cut him off completely than to hold on to a friendship that neither of them knew if it’d survive the distance.
Seeing Finn again reminded Jesse of his feelings. Ten years had not being enough to get over him. If anything, seeing him all grown up only mad those feelings stronger.
Reconnecting again was easier than Jesse thought possible. Finn was still the sweet, kind person he knew but now he was out and proud. That shouldn’t have mattered to Jesse but he couldn’t deny it gave him hope that there could be something between them.
When Finn’s friends rope him into helping them find the perfect man for Finn, he does exactly that. He provides them with the perfect date even if his heart is breaking. He wishes it was him the one Finn chose to build a life with, but he was too afraid to voice his feelings out loud.
Despite finally having the perfect date, Finn can’t stop thinking about his best friend. Everything he’s ever wanted in a man, Jesse possesses. It took him a minute to realize the person he wanted a future with was Jesse.
Jesse couldn’t believe that his dream of being with Finn was finally a reality. He waited ten years to be with the boy he loved and now, here they were building a future together.
“𝑰’𝒎 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒚. 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒃𝒐𝒚𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒃𝒐𝒚𝒔. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆’𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆. 𝑻𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆’𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒔.”
I highly recommend this series. It’s low angst, super fun with the best friends anyone could ever ask for. Definitely a reread worthy series.
Read
August 27, 2026While the rest of the Boys at Elmwood U set Finn up on terrible blind dates, he manifests a chance to reconnect with a childhood friend and explore what Jesse has always wanted... I love how the book handles Jesse's childhood crush and doesn't rush them into anything. The slow burn works as they reconnect and it makes the HEA all the more poignant.
September 13, 2026
This is a childhood best friends college romance, featuring Finn and Jesse, and is book three in the Boys of Elmwood U series.
Finn’s friends are determined to find him a boyfriend, trying every romance trope they can think of. But when his childhood best friend Jesse steps in, Finn starts falling for him all over again.
This was another great read in this series. I loved seeing Finn and Jesse reconnect and finally admit their feelings for eachother. I’ve loved this series.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 3 in series
MM college romance
Slow burn
Childhood best friends
Second chance
Matchmaking friends
Disaster blind dates
Unrequited love
Reconnected
Spicy times
Admit feelings
Found family
HEA
Finn’s friends are determined to find him a boyfriend, trying every romance trope they can think of. But when his childhood best friend Jesse steps in, Finn starts falling for him all over again.
This was another great read in this series. I loved seeing Finn and Jesse reconnect and finally admit their feelings for eachother. I’ve loved this series.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 3 in series
MM college romance
Slow burn
Childhood best friends
Second chance
Matchmaking friends
Disaster blind dates
Unrequited love
Reconnected
Spicy times
Admit feelings
Found family
HEA
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Finn is a student at Elmwood University, and one of a couple still unattached in the frat house. The ones who are happily coupled up decide that their next project is to find Finn a love interest based on tropes found in gay romance novels. This is a project that they take very seriously, using data files, cork boards, advertisements, etc. The first dates they set up are nothing short of disastrous. Meanwhile Jesse, a childhood friend of Finn’s, transfers to Elmwood with a view to a fresh start. At the age of twelve, Jesse moved across the country from Finn and ended up ghosting him for a decade. At first, Jesse avoids Finn after seeing him until Finn catches up with him in the library. Jesse agrees to set Finn up with his roommate Malcolm who ends up standing Finn up. Because he missed the message Malcolm sent to him, Jesse rushes to the venue of the date to let Finn know. They reconnect but they don’t deal with the ghosting until late in the book. When they go on their first official date, they end up at a drag show starring Mama Viv, from the Hudson Burrow series.
I found that the work of “The Committee” (the coupled guys) a bit contrived. It doesn’t strike me that someone like Finn would submit to the series of blind dates on which they send him. The reader knows they’ll be a disaster, though there is an element of suspense in finding out how they will go wrong. Both MCs are really nice guys who cannot get their communications straight. This goes back to the decade during which Jesse ghosted Finn. The thinking process they each go through is really clear, albeit way off base. Clearly, they’ve been in love since before Jesse moved away, but neither recognizes that nor can they see how the relationship can continue forever. To be fair, that’s mostly on Jesse. They are well supported by Finn’s housemates, perhaps too well. Other than Jesse’s roommate Malcolm and the dates with whom he interacts, there aren’t any other secondary characters of import. The plot is fairly straightforward with few diversions.
I’ve enjoyed this series and look forward to the author’s next.
Finn is a student at Elmwood University, and one of a couple still unattached in the frat house. The ones who are happily coupled up decide that their next project is to find Finn a love interest based on tropes found in gay romance novels. This is a project that they take very seriously, using data files, cork boards, advertisements, etc. The first dates they set up are nothing short of disastrous. Meanwhile Jesse, a childhood friend of Finn’s, transfers to Elmwood with a view to a fresh start. At the age of twelve, Jesse moved across the country from Finn and ended up ghosting him for a decade. At first, Jesse avoids Finn after seeing him until Finn catches up with him in the library. Jesse agrees to set Finn up with his roommate Malcolm who ends up standing Finn up. Because he missed the message Malcolm sent to him, Jesse rushes to the venue of the date to let Finn know. They reconnect but they don’t deal with the ghosting until late in the book. When they go on their first official date, they end up at a drag show starring Mama Viv, from the Hudson Burrow series.
I found that the work of “The Committee” (the coupled guys) a bit contrived. It doesn’t strike me that someone like Finn would submit to the series of blind dates on which they send him. The reader knows they’ll be a disaster, though there is an element of suspense in finding out how they will go wrong. Both MCs are really nice guys who cannot get their communications straight. This goes back to the decade during which Jesse ghosted Finn. The thinking process they each go through is really clear, albeit way off base. Clearly, they’ve been in love since before Jesse moved away, but neither recognizes that nor can they see how the relationship can continue forever. To be fair, that’s mostly on Jesse. They are well supported by Finn’s housemates, perhaps too well. Other than Jesse’s roommate Malcolm and the dates with whom he interacts, there aren’t any other secondary characters of import. The plot is fairly straightforward with few diversions.
I’ve enjoyed this series and look forward to the author’s next.
September 2, 2026
4.5 stars
This third book in the Elmwood U series was an entertaining read featuring Finn and Jesse, childhood friends ten years ago, separated by a family move, and reunited in an unexpected setting. Jesse ghosted Finn after the move, an action which has affected both men in their relationships over time. Finn wants a lasting relationship like his fraternity friends have, but no one really catches that spark with him. To help him out, his friends set him up on blind dates, but not before they use questionnaires for both Finn and prospective dates, trying to choose the trope and calculate the possibility of success with the matches. They didn’t count on Jesse's reappearance after all these years, and the feelings it raises for both men. The humor in some of the pairings are cause for smiles and laughter, while the desire both have for the other but are afraid to show or acknowledge, complicates the dating process. Lost best friends to lovers seems to be the trope that wins, not without a lot of trial and error, and the lowering of walls built over years by both Jesse and Finn. I laughed at parts and teared up at others as the efforts of the frat brothers helped to move things along between these two who seemed destined to be together from an early age, a relationship which could only grow and mature as the years together went by. After rooting for the two to get past the events of their youth and accept the possibility before them, I was pleased and satisfied with where they were at the finish.
I enjoyed the appearance of Mama Viv and the Hudson Burrow connection, and was entertained by the matchmaking efforts of Finn’s frat brothers, his friends from the two previous books. This was a fitting ending to the series, an interesting and entertaining read with relatable and engaging characters, one I can easily recommend to any fan of the work of Hayden Hall.
This third book in the Elmwood U series was an entertaining read featuring Finn and Jesse, childhood friends ten years ago, separated by a family move, and reunited in an unexpected setting. Jesse ghosted Finn after the move, an action which has affected both men in their relationships over time. Finn wants a lasting relationship like his fraternity friends have, but no one really catches that spark with him. To help him out, his friends set him up on blind dates, but not before they use questionnaires for both Finn and prospective dates, trying to choose the trope and calculate the possibility of success with the matches. They didn’t count on Jesse's reappearance after all these years, and the feelings it raises for both men. The humor in some of the pairings are cause for smiles and laughter, while the desire both have for the other but are afraid to show or acknowledge, complicates the dating process. Lost best friends to lovers seems to be the trope that wins, not without a lot of trial and error, and the lowering of walls built over years by both Jesse and Finn. I laughed at parts and teared up at others as the efforts of the frat brothers helped to move things along between these two who seemed destined to be together from an early age, a relationship which could only grow and mature as the years together went by. After rooting for the two to get past the events of their youth and accept the possibility before them, I was pleased and satisfied with where they were at the finish.
I enjoyed the appearance of Mama Viv and the Hudson Burrow connection, and was entertained by the matchmaking efforts of Finn’s frat brothers, his friends from the two previous books. This was a fitting ending to the series, an interesting and entertaining read with relatable and engaging characters, one I can easily recommend to any fan of the work of Hayden Hall.
October 2, 2026
These Elmwood boys - I love them. I also love peanut, who wouldn't... Honestly you don't have a heart of you don't fall in love with the boys of this frat house, their dogs and their plus ones who have now all become an integral part of the story, of all our lives.
This time, this story, is all about the one who came out first and the one who still doesn't have his other half, his soulmate. It's about the efforts of his frat brothers, their plus ones, their ridiculous schemes, their even more ridiculous pin board. It's the age old story of best friends trying their very best to give one of their own the love they know in their hearts he deserves, even if the way they decide to go about it is a little ... different! The pin board they create is a work of art and science. They have tried (well mostly Bennett and his clipboard of endless questions and the other guys approaching random strangers based on their own data,) have tried to set up Finn with his soulmate. They've found what they are certain are the best matches, they've set up dates and yet nothing is working, nothing is clicking let alone setting Finn's heart beating. Then he discovers his childhood best friend Jesse has transferred to Elmwood. Jesse gets in on the action suggesting his own roommate as a sure bet. Of course the roommate fails to turn up so Jesse and Finn have a date. It goes perfectly but despite years of secret pining they don't act on anything ... yet. After all where would the gentle angst and humour be if they did?
The boys of the frat house are brilliant wingmen, brothers in all but blood they want the best for their Finn, and as they get to know Jesse, for him too. We want the best for them, we happily suffer the angst, the pining and longing, feeling it all for ourselves, knowing that Hayden Hall won't, has never let us down, will give us the happy ending we are all yearning for. These Elmwood U boys are the best and they have a very special place in my heart and on my bookshelf!
This time, this story, is all about the one who came out first and the one who still doesn't have his other half, his soulmate. It's about the efforts of his frat brothers, their plus ones, their ridiculous schemes, their even more ridiculous pin board. It's the age old story of best friends trying their very best to give one of their own the love they know in their hearts he deserves, even if the way they decide to go about it is a little ... different! The pin board they create is a work of art and science. They have tried (well mostly Bennett and his clipboard of endless questions and the other guys approaching random strangers based on their own data,) have tried to set up Finn with his soulmate. They've found what they are certain are the best matches, they've set up dates and yet nothing is working, nothing is clicking let alone setting Finn's heart beating. Then he discovers his childhood best friend Jesse has transferred to Elmwood. Jesse gets in on the action suggesting his own roommate as a sure bet. Of course the roommate fails to turn up so Jesse and Finn have a date. It goes perfectly but despite years of secret pining they don't act on anything ... yet. After all where would the gentle angst and humour be if they did?
The boys of the frat house are brilliant wingmen, brothers in all but blood they want the best for their Finn, and as they get to know Jesse, for him too. We want the best for them, we happily suffer the angst, the pining and longing, feeling it all for ourselves, knowing that Hayden Hall won't, has never let us down, will give us the happy ending we are all yearning for. These Elmwood U boys are the best and they have a very special place in my heart and on my bookshelf!
Review of advance copy received from Author
CRASH COURSE is the third and final book in The Boys of Elmwood U series.
Finn sees his friends in the frat in happy relationships and wants what they have but he has the worst luck in dating. When his friends decide they want to run an experiment with Finn and find him the perfect person using romance tropes. Seven blind dates in seven days with the men or women of their choosing. Finn is willing to try anything to find his happily ever after so he agrees. What he doesn't expect is finding out his best friend from childhood that moved away and ghosted him is now going to Elmwood. Finn wants to catch up and find out what happened ten years ago when they stopped talking.
When Jesse's dad moved him away at twelve Jesse know two things he was gay and in love with his best friend. He wanted to stay in touch more than anything but every text broke his heart more and more. To save himself he buried his feelings and ghosted him. When he saw Finn on campus all of those feelings came rushing back. When Jesse finds out he's the object of an experiment with his friends he offers his new roommate as a possible date. When the roommate decides he doesn't want to go Jesse rushes to tell him so he doesn't think he was stood up.
Jesse and Finn are trying to work through their feelings without ruining the friendship they are rebuilding. Crash Course has such a fun vibe to it with the roommates. Jesse has a lot to work through, the constant feeling that Finn is going to walk away so why even start anything. Finn on the other hand knows what he wants and helps Jesse see they could actually have a future. It is a super sweet read.
I was given a free copy of this book by the author to read and review.
Finn sees his friends in the frat in happy relationships and wants what they have but he has the worst luck in dating. When his friends decide they want to run an experiment with Finn and find him the perfect person using romance tropes. Seven blind dates in seven days with the men or women of their choosing. Finn is willing to try anything to find his happily ever after so he agrees. What he doesn't expect is finding out his best friend from childhood that moved away and ghosted him is now going to Elmwood. Finn wants to catch up and find out what happened ten years ago when they stopped talking.
When Jesse's dad moved him away at twelve Jesse know two things he was gay and in love with his best friend. He wanted to stay in touch more than anything but every text broke his heart more and more. To save himself he buried his feelings and ghosted him. When he saw Finn on campus all of those feelings came rushing back. When Jesse finds out he's the object of an experiment with his friends he offers his new roommate as a possible date. When the roommate decides he doesn't want to go Jesse rushes to tell him so he doesn't think he was stood up.
Jesse and Finn are trying to work through their feelings without ruining the friendship they are rebuilding. Crash Course has such a fun vibe to it with the roommates. Jesse has a lot to work through, the constant feeling that Finn is going to walk away so why even start anything. Finn on the other hand knows what he wants and helps Jesse see they could actually have a future. It is a super sweet read.
I was given a free copy of this book by the author to read and review.
August 29, 2026
I've been doing a lot of reading while I recover from surgery and after a couple heavier romances, I wanted something low angst. I knew Hayden Hall's new release would be exactly that for me and it was short enough to read in one long sitting, which is perfect when you can't get out of bed all day anyway.
I thought his take on the best friends to lovers trope was cute and it was the one trope his friends hadn't tried to incorporate, since as far as they knew, the friends were all coupled up. But Jesse and Finn weren't best friends in the present tense, they'd been childhood best friends reunited at college around the same time Finn's friends were trying to set him up. Given that, I was surprised at how well Jesse knew the adult version of Finn and what he would want in a partner since the last time they'd seen each other, they were ten years younger. So that was a bit far-fetched, but still cute. And the matchmaking mishaps were pretty funny.
It was very clear how angsty Jesse's feelings were and how long he'd been carrying a torch for Finn. On the other hand, I didn't really find Finn's feelings for Jesse all that believable. His feelings of friendship and care, yes. But romantic feelings for Jesse, no. I think Hayden held off too long on letting those feelings show, so the romance felt a bit skewed. Nevertheless, it was a cute story and well worth the read. I love Hayden's writing style and the care he puts into his stories. There was also a bit of cross-over with another series of his that I enjoyed, so that was fun to see too.
I thought his take on the best friends to lovers trope was cute and it was the one trope his friends hadn't tried to incorporate, since as far as they knew, the friends were all coupled up. But Jesse and Finn weren't best friends in the present tense, they'd been childhood best friends reunited at college around the same time Finn's friends were trying to set him up. Given that, I was surprised at how well Jesse knew the adult version of Finn and what he would want in a partner since the last time they'd seen each other, they were ten years younger. So that was a bit far-fetched, but still cute. And the matchmaking mishaps were pretty funny.
It was very clear how angsty Jesse's feelings were and how long he'd been carrying a torch for Finn. On the other hand, I didn't really find Finn's feelings for Jesse all that believable. His feelings of friendship and care, yes. But romantic feelings for Jesse, no. I think Hayden held off too long on letting those feelings show, so the romance felt a bit skewed. Nevertheless, it was a cute story and well worth the read. I love Hayden's writing style and the care he puts into his stories. There was also a bit of cross-over with another series of his that I enjoyed, so that was fun to see too.
August 30, 2026
I really enjoyed this romance for a number of reasons, the biggest of which was Finn and how amazing he was! I loved his determination for romance but not wanting to force something that didn't feel right. There were lots of funny moments with his many blind dates that hit all sorts of tropes thanks to his friends' efforts. I also liked the fact that, in the end, it was someone who once knew him so well that grabbed his heart and he fell in love with. Jesse was a good match for Finn in many ways and I did like him when they were together but he also annoyed me quite often with how meaninglessly philosophical he sounded. I get that it was meant to be his thing but also he didn't really take any accountability for his past actions or even say sorry; instead it was as if his actions were justified and Finn was the one having to be brave, having to forgive without anyone meeting him half way and shouldering that worry about breaking up. In the drive for Jesse to seem this 'deep' thinking character shaped by his past I actually think he fell a bit short and lacked as much substance as the others. I was glad to get some of his past links to Hudson Burrow and I did enjoy their HEA and then the epilogue with the HEA of their future too. Overall, it's a good mm romance with lots of humour and good world building. It fits well as the end of this series for now and if you like this genre then it's worth a read.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
I just love a good Hayden Hall book. This book finishes up the Elmwood University series. It has long lost friends to lovers with a bit of a slow burn. It is super sweet and a pretty quick read.
Finn is the last man standing. All his friends are coupled up, and he is wanting someone of his own. His friends try to help. Try being the key word. And after a handful of questionable encounters, Finn begins to wonder whether they know what they are doing. While all this is going on, he runs into his old best friend Jesse. Jesse moved away and ghosted him when they were young, but neither has forgotten the other in the ten years that have passed.
Their relationship is sweet. While there is some angst around their history, it is mild. Neither is particularly hung up on it. There is some lack of communication, as both push down all the stuff that needs to be said. But their chemistry is beautiful way before they finally get past denying it. They have a fantastic connection that has defied the time and distance between them. It was great seeing them reconnect, overcome the past, and find those two young boys who loved each other even then.
I loved the fun take on tropes. Is it a new trope that characters are looking for love based on tropes? Also loved seeing the characters from previous books. Hudson Burrow holds a special place in my heart, so it was wonderful going back there with new characters and seeing the old.
I just love a good Hayden Hall book. This book finishes up the Elmwood University series. It has long lost friends to lovers with a bit of a slow burn. It is super sweet and a pretty quick read.
Finn is the last man standing. All his friends are coupled up, and he is wanting someone of his own. His friends try to help. Try being the key word. And after a handful of questionable encounters, Finn begins to wonder whether they know what they are doing. While all this is going on, he runs into his old best friend Jesse. Jesse moved away and ghosted him when they were young, but neither has forgotten the other in the ten years that have passed.
Their relationship is sweet. While there is some angst around their history, it is mild. Neither is particularly hung up on it. There is some lack of communication, as both push down all the stuff that needs to be said. But their chemistry is beautiful way before they finally get past denying it. They have a fantastic connection that has defied the time and distance between them. It was great seeing them reconnect, overcome the past, and find those two young boys who loved each other even then.
I loved the fun take on tropes. Is it a new trope that characters are looking for love based on tropes? Also loved seeing the characters from previous books. Hudson Burrow holds a special place in my heart, so it was wonderful going back there with new characters and seeing the old.
Review of advance copy received from Author
CRASH COURSE - HAYDEN HALL
This is book three in The Boys of Elmwood U series, and while it can be read as a standalone, it’s nice when you can enjoy knowing the characters from the other stories.
After all of the other guys in his frat house have coupled up, Finn decides to let them find him a boyfriend. What he isn’t expecting is the variety of dates they come up with based on supposed stats, romantic tropes, and crazy advertising. It’s during these awful blind dates that Finn runs into his childhood best friend Jesse who ghosted him almost 10 years earlier.
Jesse is surprised to see Finn at Elmwood U, and hesitates to approach him knowing he was the one who walked away from their friendship. But as luck would have it, they do run into each other and Finn is happy to see Jesse, even after being ghosted. When Finn explains the frat brother dating experiment to him, Jesse suggests he meet his roommate who is also looking for more than a hookup. When his roommate bails and doesn’t let Finn know, Jesse shows up in his place and they use the time to catch up on life and discuss why their friendship faded. He also eventually admits he has always had feelings for Finn.
This is a sweet friends to lovers trope, and the characters from previous books will make the readers smile, especially Mama Viv from the Hudson Burrow series. Hayden Hall is a must read author.
This is book three in The Boys of Elmwood U series, and while it can be read as a standalone, it’s nice when you can enjoy knowing the characters from the other stories.
After all of the other guys in his frat house have coupled up, Finn decides to let them find him a boyfriend. What he isn’t expecting is the variety of dates they come up with based on supposed stats, romantic tropes, and crazy advertising. It’s during these awful blind dates that Finn runs into his childhood best friend Jesse who ghosted him almost 10 years earlier.
Jesse is surprised to see Finn at Elmwood U, and hesitates to approach him knowing he was the one who walked away from their friendship. But as luck would have it, they do run into each other and Finn is happy to see Jesse, even after being ghosted. When Finn explains the frat brother dating experiment to him, Jesse suggests he meet his roommate who is also looking for more than a hookup. When his roommate bails and doesn’t let Finn know, Jesse shows up in his place and they use the time to catch up on life and discuss why their friendship faded. He also eventually admits he has always had feelings for Finn.
This is a sweet friends to lovers trope, and the characters from previous books will make the readers smile, especially Mama Viv from the Hudson Burrow series. Hayden Hall is a must read author.
August 28, 2026
“Crash Course” concludes the Boys of Elmwood U series with a lighthearted, humorous portrayal of college life and friendship. This final book blends matchmaking with the hilarity that ensues when friends try to play Cupid, often with comical results.
A charming aspect of “Crash Course” is its nostalgic nod to Hayden Hall’s earlier series, “Boys of Hudson Burrow.” Fans of the earlier books will appreciate references to the beloved neon-night gay bar, which expands the characters’ universe. This reminiscing not only enhances engagement but also showcases Hayden Hall’s ability to weave intricate narratives that resonate with readers.
At the heart of “Crash Course” are the delightful characters Jesse and Finn, who embody the engaging character development readers have come to expect from Hayden Hall. Although this book may lack the deep angst typical of Hall’s other works, it shines in its sweeter moments of college romance. While it may not reach the five-star status of earlier books in the author’s repertoire, it remains a wonderfully entertaining read, perfect for anyone in the mood for a quick, charming love story.
“Crash Course” offers a refreshing take on college dynamics, blending humor, friendship, and the whimsical challenges of romance. It’s a must-read for fans of the genre!
A charming aspect of “Crash Course” is its nostalgic nod to Hayden Hall’s earlier series, “Boys of Hudson Burrow.” Fans of the earlier books will appreciate references to the beloved neon-night gay bar, which expands the characters’ universe. This reminiscing not only enhances engagement but also showcases Hayden Hall’s ability to weave intricate narratives that resonate with readers.
At the heart of “Crash Course” are the delightful characters Jesse and Finn, who embody the engaging character development readers have come to expect from Hayden Hall. Although this book may lack the deep angst typical of Hall’s other works, it shines in its sweeter moments of college romance. While it may not reach the five-star status of earlier books in the author’s repertoire, it remains a wonderfully entertaining read, perfect for anyone in the mood for a quick, charming love story.
“Crash Course” offers a refreshing take on college dynamics, blending humor, friendship, and the whimsical challenges of romance. It’s a must-read for fans of the genre!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The last book of the series. It’s a fair bit shorter than other series reads of Hall’s - 3 books in total - and it starts out a lot more comedic. An attempt to find Finn a relationship based on different romance tropes. I don’t think I’ve read this trope before!
The prose is about as poetically waxed as it can be for Hall. It can take me a while to get into it, but get into it I did (as usual) and I was engulfed in this cutely silly and flowy romantic tale.
Both boys are gorgeous - Finn unwittingly so, Jesse with his childhood love hangover - as they reconnect and Jesse gets roped into assisting Finn’s friends with finding him true love. I wonder who it’ll be!
It’s a fairly long lead up to the boys admitting their attraction to each other and then it’s full *steam* ahead. Jesse has been all in his head since they were best childhood friends and Finn handles the reconnect beautifully.
There’s a cameo from the Frat Brats series here - a book in my library I’m yet to read - so that’ll move up the TBR list.
I’ve enjoyed this series, it’s a slightly different feel to other ones I’ve read by Hall, though still familiar and I’m excited about whats next, even if it’s not my usual read.
The prose is about as poetically waxed as it can be for Hall. It can take me a while to get into it, but get into it I did (as usual) and I was engulfed in this cutely silly and flowy romantic tale.
Both boys are gorgeous - Finn unwittingly so, Jesse with his childhood love hangover - as they reconnect and Jesse gets roped into assisting Finn’s friends with finding him true love. I wonder who it’ll be!
It’s a fairly long lead up to the boys admitting their attraction to each other and then it’s full *steam* ahead. Jesse has been all in his head since they were best childhood friends and Finn handles the reconnect beautifully.
There’s a cameo from the Frat Brats series here - a book in my library I’m yet to read - so that’ll move up the TBR list.
I’ve enjoyed this series, it’s a slightly different feel to other ones I’ve read by Hall, though still familiar and I’m excited about whats next, even if it’s not my usual read.
August 27, 2026
This one left me in a happy crying mess. Finn and Jesse were childhood best friends who lost touch when Jesse moved away 10 years ago. It's a hurt that never really left Finn, he was never sure why Jesse stopped responding to him all those years ago. And he's been searching for what all his roommates have, a real connection and romance with someone. Cut to his frat brother roommates who decide to script Finn's love life like a romance novel trope to find him his perfect guy. In the middle of the mayhem Jesse makes a reappearance in his life and there is no denying the chemistry that is still there. This book is a true romcom. The series of disaster dates Finn's friends send him on are hilarious. I laughed out loud at each bad match they set him up on. And they are a great contrast to the "dates" that Jesse and Finn go on. The pining between the 2 is top notch and it is the confessions between them that finally had the waterworks going for me. It was a great way to wrap up the universe that Hall has been building and it was nice to see them in Hudson Burrow with Aunt Viv at Neon Nights. It's really lovely and sweet and hot as hell. Totally recommend it.
September 9, 2026
The Boys of Elmwood U trilogy, Book 3 (Final Book)
Everyone is loved up and Finn craves the same. His friends cook up a plan to set him up on 7 dates in seven days in all the different romantic tropes, they are convinced he will find his true love withing 7 days. simple math, right? Of course that is not how life works, but it makes a great story line!
In comes Jesse... old bestie... has loved Finn for years, to the point where he doesn't date, just messes around. In a moment of martyrdom, Jesse sets Finn up on a date with his roommate. When his roommate fails to show up, Jesse steps in, giving him and Finn a chance to reconnect after years apart. The date between Jesse and Finn happens to be... the 7th date! BUT, even though they get along great, Jesse sets Finn up for yet another date! We must have angst and pining! LOL
I really enjoyed this story, it was a light read, super cute, and the characters are really likeable across the whole series. Of course, Jesse and Finn smarten up and we get our HEA, ending this trilogy on a very heart happy note.
I really enjoy this author, I will read more in the future!
Everyone is loved up and Finn craves the same. His friends cook up a plan to set him up on 7 dates in seven days in all the different romantic tropes, they are convinced he will find his true love withing 7 days. simple math, right? Of course that is not how life works, but it makes a great story line!
In comes Jesse... old bestie... has loved Finn for years, to the point where he doesn't date, just messes around. In a moment of martyrdom, Jesse sets Finn up on a date with his roommate. When his roommate fails to show up, Jesse steps in, giving him and Finn a chance to reconnect after years apart. The date between Jesse and Finn happens to be... the 7th date! BUT, even though they get along great, Jesse sets Finn up for yet another date! We must have angst and pining! LOL
I really enjoyed this story, it was a light read, super cute, and the characters are really likeable across the whole series. Of course, Jesse and Finn smarten up and we get our HEA, ending this trilogy on a very heart happy note.
I really enjoy this author, I will read more in the future!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve loved every book in this series, but this may just be my favourite. Finn is the last of the BEL house friends to be single, and their over-the-top attempts to help him find the one gives us a number of fun, though bad, blind dates. While going through this, Finn discovers that his ex childhood best friend, Jesse, who ghosted him years ago, is now also studying at Elmwood U and they reconnect. Jesse has had strong feelings for Finn since before they lost contact, and as they spend time together redeveloping their friendship, it becomes clear that he still feels the same. As things progress between the two of them, Jesse takes Finn on a date where we find one of my favourite side characters of Halls’, Madam Viv, and a connection to a previous series, Hudson Burrows. This is a slow-burn, ex best-friends to lovers story that is fun and full of wonderful side characters. I especially loved the epilogue where Finn and Jesse move to Hudson Burrows with a couple of their friends, as Hudson Burrows is one of my all-time favourite book places and series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Third in series (Boys of Elmwood U), but can be read as a standalone. Former childhood best friends. Slow burn. Dual POV.
Finn’s frat brothers want to set him up for a romantic trope so he can be in a relationship, and Finn goes along with the varied blind dates they plan. Meanwhile he reunites with his friend Jesse after ten years and they both feel the pull of their former affections more realized as adults and unexpectedly comfortable.
Finn is really sweet as he goes along with all of the horrible dates and is genuinely happy to get to know Jesse all over again. Jesse, who secretly feels he has loved Finn since they were kids, is hesitant to reignite their friendship. I struggled with the idea that Jesse was in love at the age of twelve, but some of the writing was really compelling when it came to both character’s internal monologues about their feelings. Overall, I enjoyed Finn and Jesse together and how they fell into their own trope which worked for them and provided an HEA.
Finn’s frat brothers want to set him up for a romantic trope so he can be in a relationship, and Finn goes along with the varied blind dates they plan. Meanwhile he reunites with his friend Jesse after ten years and they both feel the pull of their former affections more realized as adults and unexpectedly comfortable.
Finn is really sweet as he goes along with all of the horrible dates and is genuinely happy to get to know Jesse all over again. Jesse, who secretly feels he has loved Finn since they were kids, is hesitant to reignite their friendship. I struggled with the idea that Jesse was in love at the age of twelve, but some of the writing was really compelling when it came to both character’s internal monologues about their feelings. Overall, I enjoyed Finn and Jesse together and how they fell into their own trope which worked for them and provided an HEA.
September 4, 2026
This is the last book in the Elmwood U series and the author tied it all up nicely. As the guys in the house set up a series of blind dates for Finn, using romance tropes and questionnaires, he actually randomly found his HEA with his former BFF. Jesse had moved away from Finn when they were just 12, but is now back on the same campus. Both men never forgot the other, but Finn always wondered why Jesse drifted apart from him. Instead of letting his roommate flake on his blind date with Finn, Jesse takes his place. A rekindled friendship leads to resurfacing of feelings that never went away for either of them. They just have to be brave enough to reach for what’s right in front of them. It was nice to see the authors tie in with his Hudson Burrow’s characters as well, Mama Viv always knows when the right one comes along 😉. Loved the epilogue. Looking forward to the author’s next adventure.
September 17, 2026
Sweet best friends to lovers
The blurb tells you all you need to know about Hayden's latest frat boy romance. It's a sweet story of finding love unexpectedly after be reunited with your childhood best friend.
Finn's friends, the two couples from the Books 1 and 2, assembled a ragtag bag of men to fill a nightmare week of blind dates for Finn, and they went as well as you'd expect. Lucky, then, that his life started looking up when he was unexpectedly reunited with his childhood best friend.
Jesse and Finn reconnected with an ease on Finn's part and a certain reluctance on Jesse's but, of course, secrets will always out, eventually. The path of true love may not run smooth but in romanceland, you always get your man.
This was a sweet story that finished off this short series, and all three books were easy to read with characters to love, and a dog named Peanut who stole the show every time.
The blurb tells you all you need to know about Hayden's latest frat boy romance. It's a sweet story of finding love unexpectedly after be reunited with your childhood best friend.
Finn's friends, the two couples from the Books 1 and 2, assembled a ragtag bag of men to fill a nightmare week of blind dates for Finn, and they went as well as you'd expect. Lucky, then, that his life started looking up when he was unexpectedly reunited with his childhood best friend.
Jesse and Finn reconnected with an ease on Finn's part and a certain reluctance on Jesse's but, of course, secrets will always out, eventually. The path of true love may not run smooth but in romanceland, you always get your man.
This was a sweet story that finished off this short series, and all three books were easy to read with characters to love, and a dog named Peanut who stole the show every time.
August 28, 2026
I can't really put my finger on why but I didn't like this one as much as the other 2 in the series. While I loved how the rest of the boys helped Finn find love by setting him up with men based on his preferences and romantic scenes, it didn't click for me. The banter was great, the cameo of Mama Viv was a lovely surprise and of course the lovely Peanut.
What I didn't feel was the connection between Finn and Jesse, his once best friend who moved away and stopped answering Finn's text after a while. It started out nice with them meeting accidentally but then it kind of fizzled out.
That is not to say that this wasn't a great series and that I'm sad to see the boys go. I loved seeing them all find their happy endings and am looking forward to what Hayden has in store for us next.
**ARC kindly received from the author via Bookfunnel. I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.**
What I didn't feel was the connection between Finn and Jesse, his once best friend who moved away and stopped answering Finn's text after a while. It started out nice with them meeting accidentally but then it kind of fizzled out.
That is not to say that this wasn't a great series and that I'm sad to see the boys go. I loved seeing them all find their happy endings and am looking forward to what Hayden has in store for us next.
**ARC kindly received from the author via Bookfunnel. I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.**
September 7, 2026
Such a fun, light-hearted read! The whole matchmaking scheme was hilarious, especially the corkboard, points system and the friends who were determined to find their single friend his perfect match. All the failed dates and ridiculous attempts at romance gave the story plenty of laughs.
But what really got me was Jesse and the history between him and the main character. Seeing two childhood friends reconnect after all those years, with feelings that had never really disappeared, gave the story a much more emotional side than I expected. Their relationship had that lovely mix of familiarity, longing and vulnerability that made it easy to root for them.
A really enjoyable final addition to the Elmwood U series, balancing humour and heartfelt romance beautifully. I loved seeing these two finally find their way back to each other.
But what really got me was Jesse and the history between him and the main character. Seeing two childhood friends reconnect after all those years, with feelings that had never really disappeared, gave the story a much more emotional side than I expected. Their relationship had that lovely mix of familiarity, longing and vulnerability that made it easy to root for them.
A really enjoyable final addition to the Elmwood U series, balancing humour and heartfelt romance beautifully. I loved seeing these two finally find their way back to each other.
September 9, 2026
"Crash Course" is the last book in The Boys of Elmwood U trilogy. Hayden Hall has created a trope filled delight with this one. Almost every trope you can think of is here as Finn's best friends set out to find him his HEA. Every man he's introduced to, every awful date, makes for some hilarious reading.
Then, his best friend from childhood comes to Elmwood. The story moves into sweet Hallmark territory. Still tropey. Best friends until Jesse's family moved away, both boys had secret crushes on the other. They reunite ten years later. And we get the ultimate trope ever, best friends to lovers.
This was Hayden Hall at his funniest. The pacing was fast. We get steamy annnnddd thoughtful. And the former MCs were wonderful.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook and this is my review.
Then, his best friend from childhood comes to Elmwood. The story moves into sweet Hallmark territory. Still tropey. Best friends until Jesse's family moved away, both boys had secret crushes on the other. They reunite ten years later. And we get the ultimate trope ever, best friends to lovers.
This was Hayden Hall at his funniest. The pacing was fast. We get steamy annnnddd thoughtful. And the former MCs were wonderful.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook and this is my review.
August 28, 2026
I love a good amount of pining.
Finn was ghosted by Jesse, his best friend, ten years ago. Suddenly he’s back.
Jesse has been in love with Finn for as long as he knows. Being around Finn showed the feelings are still there.
Finn wants a relationship and doesn’t succeed with it. His dorm mates are setting him up with blind dates. Do they even know who he is and what he wants, because one after another is nothing Finn is looking for.
Jesse helps with the blind dates, it seems he knows exactly what Finn wants.
It’s a sweet story with a lot of blind dates, two former best friends, and their history.
Watching them was wonderful, Finn somewhat oblivious about his feelings, and Jesse who doesn’t dare to hope for a future with the guy he loves for more than a decade.
Finn was ghosted by Jesse, his best friend, ten years ago. Suddenly he’s back.
Jesse has been in love with Finn for as long as he knows. Being around Finn showed the feelings are still there.
Finn wants a relationship and doesn’t succeed with it. His dorm mates are setting him up with blind dates. Do they even know who he is and what he wants, because one after another is nothing Finn is looking for.
Jesse helps with the blind dates, it seems he knows exactly what Finn wants.
It’s a sweet story with a lot of blind dates, two former best friends, and their history.
Watching them was wonderful, Finn somewhat oblivious about his feelings, and Jesse who doesn’t dare to hope for a future with the guy he loves for more than a decade.
August 29, 2026
Crash Course by Hayden Hall is the final book in the Boys of Elmwood U series. I have really enjoyed this series so it is bittersweet to say goodbye to all of these characters that I love. Jesse and Finn are former besties who have lost touch. They meet again ten years later though Jesse is determined to keep Finn at arm’s length. He was in love with him when they parted and he does not want to go through that again. I did really enjoy them together though I found Jesse slightly frustrating. He did not want to admit anything to Finn and kept quiet a lot when it would have been better to be honest. Love the Mama Viv sighting and the epilogue made me sooooo happy. I highly recommend this author!
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.
August 31, 2026
This an easy to read, entertaining, fun, best friends to stranger to friends to lovers story. I loved Finn and his determination to find romance but not settling for what did not feel wrong is endearing. I was less convinced by Jesse and his current romantic feeling for Finn. I think that maybe the romance was too slow burn and I missed more of them romantically involved to be completely convinced by their relationship. It's still a great book, that I recommend.
This is the third and final book from The Boys of Elmwood U series, and while it can be read as a standalone, we have references and cameos for previous books in the series and even from a previous series (Boys of Hudson Burrow).
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the third and final book from The Boys of Elmwood U series, and while it can be read as a standalone, we have references and cameos for previous books in the series and even from a previous series (Boys of Hudson Burrow).
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Finn’s friends decide to find him a boyfriend based on romance novel tropes, insanity ensues. They take the project very seriously—spreadsheets, advertising, schematics. And they find types like the himbo and the (wannabe) bad boy biker, but none of those guys actually seem like the right match for Finn. When Jesse, Finn’s childhood friend, transfers to Elmwood, he offers to set him up. Even when things don't go as expected, the two reconnect, and the group realizes they can rely on Jesse’s opinion for what Finn needs in a partner (probably because he’s been what Finn’s missing all along). It just takes Finn being on a great, not perfect, date to see what’s been right in front of him.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finn is the last of his friends in the frat to find love so they decide to help him find his man. His childhood bf Jesse sets him up with his roommate who's a no show so Jesse steps in as a fill-in date. They have a history, likes, fears, dreams, memories. When Jesse left, both their worlds changed. Now they have to find each other again, get to know each other and the bond is back, stronger than ever, as love should be. It's a wrap of the series, a friends to lovers romance as the boys want to label it with some crossover from other books. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
August 29, 2026
A bit of touching second chance moments, and some fun chaotic rom-com dating disasters.
A for effort to Finn’s friends for trying to turn matchmaking into a science project, but their methodology is definitely flawed!! LOL Cue some downright terrible, bizarre, and hilarious dates.
But then there’s Jesse, his childhood ‘almost something’ who had disappeared from his life, leaving a void. He suddenly appears on campus. They dance around each other, feeling a connection but also knowing they actually don’t know each other anymore. So they slowly move toward a pretty sweet HEA.
This is lighter fare that some of the Hayden’s recent works, full of warmth and humour.
A for effort to Finn’s friends for trying to turn matchmaking into a science project, but their methodology is definitely flawed!! LOL Cue some downright terrible, bizarre, and hilarious dates.
But then there’s Jesse, his childhood ‘almost something’ who had disappeared from his life, leaving a void. He suddenly appears on campus. They dance around each other, feeling a connection but also knowing they actually don’t know each other anymore. So they slowly move toward a pretty sweet HEA.
This is lighter fare that some of the Hayden’s recent works, full of warmth and humour.
August 30, 2026
This was such a fun, sweet, and wonderfully self-aware friends-to-lovers romance. I loved the hilarious idea of a group of meddling friends trying to engineer the perfect romantic trope, complete with a corkboard, points system, and increasingly disastrous dates. Jesse’s arrival adds the perfect emotional twist, especially with the history and unresolved feelings between him and Finn. Their chemistry feels natural, warm, and filled with just enough yearning to keep me invested. Beneath all the humour is a lovely story about recognising that love doesn’t need to follow a formula. Charming, romantic, and thoroughly enjoyable. I also loved the connection to Hudson Burrow.
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