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Now We're Even
Not yet published
Expected 5 Nov 26The only thing worse than living with a hockey player? Pretending to date one.
Callahan Grant is the top hockey player at Wilder U and has the entire student body eating out of the palm of his hand. He’s impossible to ignore–and it has nothing to do with his infuriating smirk and everything to do with the fact that he’s my new roommate.
Neither of us is thrilled about it.
Especially me, considering I currently despise hockey players.
But when Callahan and I strike a deal, I start to wonder if maybe I’ve judged him too quickly. He’ll pretend to be my boyfriend long enough to get my ex to back off, and if it works, he gets the room to himself at the end of the semester.
Desperate to move on from the scandal that landed me at Wilder U in the first place, I agree.
Callahan Grant is the top hockey player at Wilder U and has the entire student body eating out of the palm of his hand. He’s impossible to ignore–and it has nothing to do with his infuriating smirk and everything to do with the fact that he’s my new roommate.
Neither of us is thrilled about it.
Especially me, considering I currently despise hockey players.
But when Callahan and I strike a deal, I start to wonder if maybe I’ve judged him too quickly. He’ll pretend to be my boyfriend long enough to get my ex to back off, and if it works, he gets the room to himself at the end of the semester.
Desperate to move on from the scandal that landed me at Wilder U in the first place, I agree.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 5, 2026
About the author
S.J. Sylvis
35 books2,928 followersS.J. Sylvis is an Amazon top 50 and USA Today bestselling author who is best known for her angsty new adult romances and romantic comedies. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband, two small kiddos, and dog. She is obsessed with coffee, becomes easily attached to fictional characters, and spends most of her evenings buried in a book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
Review of advance copy
It was so......short and shallow
I have loved all the other work by this author but this one just didn't worked for me.
There was no character development. And everything was just so flat till 70% and then story picked up pace just after a serious confession from FMC.
And it was fake dating, but it didn't felt like it at all!?
Even the diagolues were so cliche
The only thing which I loved was that the serious topic of "how university malfunctions and prioritize some students over others" was represented in the story. This an extremely imp topic! I loved this part!
I really wanted to like it but it ended up so rushed and flat for me.
2.75 stars
**————————————————————**
—｡*♡🏒pre-read
I'm OBSESSED with this cover!! I enjoyed the Bexley U series by this author so going with good expectations for this book!!
*Thank you Valentine PR for the e-ARC!
I have loved all the other work by this author but this one just didn't worked for me.
There was no character development. And everything was just so flat till 70% and then story picked up pace just after a serious confession from FMC.
And it was fake dating, but it didn't felt like it at all!?
Even the diagolues were so cliche
The only thing which I loved was that the serious topic of "how university malfunctions and prioritize some students over others" was represented in the story. This an extremely imp topic! I loved this part!
I really wanted to like it but it ended up so rushed and flat for me.
2.75 stars
**————————————————————**
—｡*♡🏒pre-read
I'm OBSESSED with this cover!! I enjoyed the Bexley U series by this author so going with good expectations for this book!!
*Thank you Valentine PR for the e-ARC!
Currently Reading
August 7, 2026My next standalone college hockey romance! 🏒🖤
If you love:
🏒 College Hockey
🔥 Sports Romance
🫦 Enemies-to-Lovers
❤️ Fake Relationship
🏠 Forced Proximity
🛏️ One Bed
🏡 Roommates-to-Lovers
…then this one’s for you. 😍
If you love:
🏒 College Hockey
🔥 Sports Romance
🫦 Enemies-to-Lovers
❤️ Fake Relationship
🏠 Forced Proximity
🛏️ One Bed
🏡 Roommates-to-Lovers
…then this one’s for you. 😍
October 31, 2026
─── 4 starts ᯓ★ˎˊ˗
❝ “Do you want to know what’ll make us even?” “You loving me as much as I love you.” ❞
! Thank you Valentine PR and S.J Sylvis for the copy and the opportunity to read the arc of this book !
⋆˙⟡ It was such a fast read, literally that I have devoured this in one night, I love Nora's attitude and how she and Callahan are the great representation of Grumpy x sunshine. I also think it's the first time I've read a book with this type of forced proximity and I loved it.
❝ “Do you want to know what’ll make us even?” “You loving me as much as I love you.” ❞
! Thank you Valentine PR and S.J Sylvis for the copy and the opportunity to read the arc of this book !
⋆˙⟡ It was such a fast read, literally that I have devoured this in one night, I love Nora's attitude and how she and Callahan are the great representation of Grumpy x sunshine. I also think it's the first time I've read a book with this type of forced proximity and I loved it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could not get enough of the sizzling tension and witty banter between Nora and Callahan. The sparks start flying the moment they're forced to share a room, and between that and fake dating, their chemistry is off the charts.
I loved watching Callahan step up and do everything in his power to protect Nora, but what made me love these two even more was how supportive Nora was of him. As she begins to see the man beneath the surface, she realizes there's so much more to Callahan than she initially believed. The irresistible banter, explosive chemistry, and undeniable tension made these two absolutely perfect together!
Thank you, S.J. Sylvis for the ARC
I loved watching Callahan step up and do everything in his power to protect Nora, but what made me love these two even more was how supportive Nora was of him. As she begins to see the man beneath the surface, she realizes there's so much more to Callahan than she initially believed. The irresistible banter, explosive chemistry, and undeniable tension made these two absolutely perfect together!
Thank you, S.J. Sylvis for the ARC
November 2, 2026
College hockey meets fake dating.
It should be cliche but SJ Sylvis always puts out something I straight binge.
Nora transfers to Wilder U.
Callahan is a college hockey star.
There’s a slight room situation.
A poopy ex that sparks a deal involving fake dating.
Boy falls first.
There’s some struggles both of them are dealing with throughout.
I had a good time, and I don’t tend to pick up books with college kids much any more so that’s saying something for me. Props.
Arc review ✨
It should be cliche but SJ Sylvis always puts out something I straight binge.
Nora transfers to Wilder U.
Callahan is a college hockey star.
There’s a slight room situation.
A poopy ex that sparks a deal involving fake dating.
Boy falls first.
There’s some struggles both of them are dealing with throughout.
I had a good time, and I don’t tend to pick up books with college kids much any more so that’s saying something for me. Props.
Arc review ✨
October 30, 2026
An SJ Syvis fake dating + accidental roommates but only give them one bed? Say less. If you loved Claire and Theo in Weak Side, you are going to love Callahan and Nora in Now We’re Even.
Nora is a transfer student after being given an ultimatum with her scholarship due to the fallout of a possible scandal. Callahan is Wilder U’s starting hockey player who is always saving everyone. The two of them both end up in housing overflow, not realizing they not only have to share a room but also a bed. After making a deal for both their benefits to fake date, they realize, maybe it isn’t fake after all.
I say this every time it happens in a book, but I love when the MMC rage baits the FMC because he loves her attitude. Callahan absolutely loved Nora’s attitude in this and even gave her the best nickname for her. Like give me a fiery woman and her man just fueling the flames! And the tension these two had, everyone who knew they were fake dating was questioning if it was really fake at all.
I just enjoyed this one and enjoyed getting to read SJ’s writing again. I always devour them.
Thank you to SJ Sylvis for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
✨Hockey romance
✨Fake dating
✨Roommate romance
✨College romance
✨He falls first
Nora is a transfer student after being given an ultimatum with her scholarship due to the fallout of a possible scandal. Callahan is Wilder U’s starting hockey player who is always saving everyone. The two of them both end up in housing overflow, not realizing they not only have to share a room but also a bed. After making a deal for both their benefits to fake date, they realize, maybe it isn’t fake after all.
I say this every time it happens in a book, but I love when the MMC rage baits the FMC because he loves her attitude. Callahan absolutely loved Nora’s attitude in this and even gave her the best nickname for her. Like give me a fiery woman and her man just fueling the flames! And the tension these two had, everyone who knew they were fake dating was questioning if it was really fake at all.
I just enjoyed this one and enjoyed getting to read SJ’s writing again. I always devour them.
Thank you to SJ Sylvis for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
✨Hockey romance
✨Fake dating
✨Roommate romance
✨College romance
✨He falls first
Review of advance copy
Nora + Callahan
-college hockey romance
-roommates to lovers
-hatred to lovers
-fake dating
-he falls first
i loved everything about this other than i needed it to be LONGERRRR!! but the mystery around why nora was there & even that whole reasoning was more unique than most but we have callahan just totally gone for her & i loved it all just so much!!
-college hockey romance
-roommates to lovers
-hatred to lovers
-fake dating
-he falls first
i loved everything about this other than i needed it to be LONGERRRR!! but the mystery around why nora was there & even that whole reasoning was more unique than most but we have callahan just totally gone for her & i loved it all just so much!!
Review of advance copy
We are back at Wilder U! This book has everything I love in a romance! Accidental roommates, ONE BED, fake dating, hilarious banter, scorching spice, and a couple with chemistry that is impossible to ignore!
Callahan and Nora🔥 He’s the golden-boy hockey player with a heart of gold who carries everyone else’s burdens, while she’s the fiercely independent transfer student determined to keep her distance from hockey players. Being forced to share a room is one thing, but one bed?! Add fake dating to the mix, and the sparks are FLYING!
I LOVED their back-and-forth banter, the tension, and the way their fake relationship slowly becomes something real. But what made me fall even harder for these two was how they showed up for each other. Callahan helps Nora learn to trust again, while Nora reminds him that he doesn’t always have to carry the weight of the world alone. Watching them let their guards down and discover what they truly need was perfect! AND the spice was HOT! ❤️
And their roommates? Loved them. Evie, Skye and Milo! And Juliet and the rest of the characters too!
Another swoonworthy romance from S.J. Sylvis that had me laughing and loving these two. The chemistry, all the feels, hysterical banter and great romance! Can’t wait to see what’s next for Wilder U!
Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Fake Dating
🏒 Enemies to Lovers
🏒 Forced Proximity
🏒 Roommates
🌻Thank you SJ Sylvis and Valentine PR for my arc!
Callahan and Nora🔥 He’s the golden-boy hockey player with a heart of gold who carries everyone else’s burdens, while she’s the fiercely independent transfer student determined to keep her distance from hockey players. Being forced to share a room is one thing, but one bed?! Add fake dating to the mix, and the sparks are FLYING!
I LOVED their back-and-forth banter, the tension, and the way their fake relationship slowly becomes something real. But what made me fall even harder for these two was how they showed up for each other. Callahan helps Nora learn to trust again, while Nora reminds him that he doesn’t always have to carry the weight of the world alone. Watching them let their guards down and discover what they truly need was perfect! AND the spice was HOT! ❤️
And their roommates? Loved them. Evie, Skye and Milo! And Juliet and the rest of the characters too!
Another swoonworthy romance from S.J. Sylvis that had me laughing and loving these two. The chemistry, all the feels, hysterical banter and great romance! Can’t wait to see what’s next for Wilder U!
Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏒 Hockey Romance
🏒 Fake Dating
🏒 Enemies to Lovers
🏒 Forced Proximity
🏒 Roommates
🌻Thank you SJ Sylvis and Valentine PR for my arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
An accidental roommates/fake dating romance with all the bell and whistles of a 5-star read.
The story of Callahan, the talented hockey player, who carries the responsibility of the world on his shoulders and the new transfer student, Nora, who he ends up sharing a room with, is funny, spicy and sweet.
Now We’re Even brings two characters “forcibly together”, who fight like cats and dogs, but love with the same intensity.
The banter is truly funny, the spice in hot, the love is swoon worthy and the chemistry is undeniable.
A romance with a fake relationship that starts to feel real from the very beginning, with characters that support each other in their own way, where the tension is entertaining, the spice is scorching, the supporting characters have their own weight in the story and the HEA is perfect.
Callahan shows Nora what real love is and Nora shows Callahan how to open up to love.
S. J. Sylvis always has a way of making you fell connected to the story, to their struggles and celebrate their wins.
Thank you for the ARC.
The story of Callahan, the talented hockey player, who carries the responsibility of the world on his shoulders and the new transfer student, Nora, who he ends up sharing a room with, is funny, spicy and sweet.
Now We’re Even brings two characters “forcibly together”, who fight like cats and dogs, but love with the same intensity.
The banter is truly funny, the spice in hot, the love is swoon worthy and the chemistry is undeniable.
A romance with a fake relationship that starts to feel real from the very beginning, with characters that support each other in their own way, where the tension is entertaining, the spice is scorching, the supporting characters have their own weight in the story and the HEA is perfect.
Callahan shows Nora what real love is and Nora shows Callahan how to open up to love.
S. J. Sylvis always has a way of making you fell connected to the story, to their struggles and celebrate their wins.
Thank you for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Now We’re Even by SJ Sylvis eARC review 💚
A college, hockey, fake dating romance with the BEST BANTER.
I loved being back at Wilder U and this was such a fun read that I absolutely devoured.
Callahan Grant has a heart of gold and when housing accidentally overbooks he finds himself rooming with Nora, who is salty toward hockey players so he definitely has his work cut out for him.
Their banter is so fun. They decide fake dating is great plan to find their way out of their own predicaments and can you guess how that ends up? 😏
This is a quick read that will have you wanting more from the Wilder U world.
What to expect:
College romance
Hockey romance
He falls first
Fake dating
Roommates
Thank you so much SJ Sylvis and VPR for the arc!
A college, hockey, fake dating romance with the BEST BANTER.
I loved being back at Wilder U and this was such a fun read that I absolutely devoured.
Callahan Grant has a heart of gold and when housing accidentally overbooks he finds himself rooming with Nora, who is salty toward hockey players so he definitely has his work cut out for him.
Their banter is so fun. They decide fake dating is great plan to find their way out of their own predicaments and can you guess how that ends up? 😏
This is a quick read that will have you wanting more from the Wilder U world.
What to expect:
College romance
Hockey romance
He falls first
Fake dating
Roommates
Thank you so much SJ Sylvis and VPR for the arc!
October 31, 2026
Another quick and enjoyable book with our Wilder U family! After transferring schools, Nora finds out that she has an unexpected roomie…one who happens to be on the hockey team. And man does she absolutely hate that he’s a jock. I love that her feisty attitude is something that he’s intrigued by and him just egging her on was the icing on the cake! And it only gets better when they decided to fake date and bet on who will get to keep their room as the prize. If you’re in the mood for a fun little hockey romance, definitely consider this book!
What to expect:
🏒hockey romance.
🏒fake dating
🏒hate to love
🏒forced proximity
🏒roommates to lovers
🏒one bed
🏒he falls first
🏒ex’s rival
What to expect:
🏒hockey romance.
🏒fake dating
🏒hate to love
🏒forced proximity
🏒roommates to lovers
🏒one bed
🏒he falls first
🏒ex’s rival
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
🏒 One Room. One Fake Relationship. One Hockey Captain Who Was Never Supposed to Fall…
What happens when a hockey captain who’s used to fixing everyone else’s problems finds himself sharing a room with the one girl who could completely unravel his own?
Oh, SJ Sylvis, you know exactly how to get me hooked!
I have been itching to return to Wilder U, and Now We’re Even was everything I wanted and more. A brilliantly executed fake dating romance with forced proximity, deliciously sizzling chemistry and banter that had me grinning from ear to ear. Nora and Callahan had me turning the pages, desperate to see how their perfectly simple arrangement could possibly go so spectacularly wrong… or wonderfully right!
Beyond the Synopsis…
Callahan is the hockey team’s captain, the one everyone loves and the guy who can’t help cleaning up his teammates’ messes. He’s always been the one to sort everything out, but when his coach decides it’s time for the team to stand on their own two feet, Callahan finds himself kicked out of the hockey house and sharing a room with Nora, a transfer student.
And Nora? Well, once you discover why she had to move, you’ll be right there with her, wanting her to get a little revenge on her ex, who just happens to be a hockey player for the college she’s transferred from!
Let’s just say Nora and Callahan don’t exactly hit it off at first. Their banter is brilliant, and with the rest of the team and their housemates getting involved, there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that absolutely hit the mark.
But when Nora’s ex keeps hanging around and Callahan desperately wants his room to himself, there’s only one solution left.
Fake date. Fool my ex. Survive living together.
Simple rules, right?
Well, we all know how that goes in a romance!
The more Nora discovers about Callahan and the things he keeps hidden beneath that dependable captain exterior, the more she falls for him. And the more time Callahan spends with Nora, the harder it becomes to deny that his feelings are becoming something real.
Why You’ll Want to Read It
SJ Sylvis has created a romance that delivers on so many levels. The chemistry is delicious, the banter is spot on, and beneath the fake dating and hockey romance fun is a story that genuinely hits you in the emotions.
I loved watching these two navigate their unexpected living arrangements, the growing attraction and the feelings neither of them planned for. Callahan is the kind of hero who makes you swoon, while Nora is a heroine you can’t help rooting for.
And that emotional depth? It’s what takes this story beyond a fun fake dating romance and makes it something truly special.
Read it for…
🏒 A swoon-worthy hockey captain
🔥 Fake dating with seriously sizzling chemistry
🏠 Forced proximity and unexpected roommates
💬 Brilliant banter and laugh-out-loud moments
💔 A little revenge on the ex
❤️ Hidden vulnerabilities and all the feels
WOB65 Verdict
SJ Sylvis has once again delivered a romance that had me completely hooked. Now We’re Even is the perfect blend of hockey romance, fake dating, fabulous banter and emotional depth, with two characters who find something real when they least expect it.
I am absolutely loving my return to Wilder U, and if this is anything to go by, I am already counting down until the next book!
A must-read for hockey romance lovers who adore a little fake dating, a lot of chemistry and a hero who will steal your heart.
What happens when a hockey captain who’s used to fixing everyone else’s problems finds himself sharing a room with the one girl who could completely unravel his own?
Oh, SJ Sylvis, you know exactly how to get me hooked!
I have been itching to return to Wilder U, and Now We’re Even was everything I wanted and more. A brilliantly executed fake dating romance with forced proximity, deliciously sizzling chemistry and banter that had me grinning from ear to ear. Nora and Callahan had me turning the pages, desperate to see how their perfectly simple arrangement could possibly go so spectacularly wrong… or wonderfully right!
Beyond the Synopsis…
Callahan is the hockey team’s captain, the one everyone loves and the guy who can’t help cleaning up his teammates’ messes. He’s always been the one to sort everything out, but when his coach decides it’s time for the team to stand on their own two feet, Callahan finds himself kicked out of the hockey house and sharing a room with Nora, a transfer student.
And Nora? Well, once you discover why she had to move, you’ll be right there with her, wanting her to get a little revenge on her ex, who just happens to be a hockey player for the college she’s transferred from!
Let’s just say Nora and Callahan don’t exactly hit it off at first. Their banter is brilliant, and with the rest of the team and their housemates getting involved, there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that absolutely hit the mark.
But when Nora’s ex keeps hanging around and Callahan desperately wants his room to himself, there’s only one solution left.
Fake date. Fool my ex. Survive living together.
Simple rules, right?
Well, we all know how that goes in a romance!
The more Nora discovers about Callahan and the things he keeps hidden beneath that dependable captain exterior, the more she falls for him. And the more time Callahan spends with Nora, the harder it becomes to deny that his feelings are becoming something real.
Why You’ll Want to Read It
SJ Sylvis has created a romance that delivers on so many levels. The chemistry is delicious, the banter is spot on, and beneath the fake dating and hockey romance fun is a story that genuinely hits you in the emotions.
I loved watching these two navigate their unexpected living arrangements, the growing attraction and the feelings neither of them planned for. Callahan is the kind of hero who makes you swoon, while Nora is a heroine you can’t help rooting for.
And that emotional depth? It’s what takes this story beyond a fun fake dating romance and makes it something truly special.
Read it for…
🏒 A swoon-worthy hockey captain
🔥 Fake dating with seriously sizzling chemistry
🏠 Forced proximity and unexpected roommates
💬 Brilliant banter and laugh-out-loud moments
💔 A little revenge on the ex
❤️ Hidden vulnerabilities and all the feels
WOB65 Verdict
SJ Sylvis has once again delivered a romance that had me completely hooked. Now We’re Even is the perfect blend of hockey romance, fake dating, fabulous banter and emotional depth, with two characters who find something real when they least expect it.
I am absolutely loving my return to Wilder U, and if this is anything to go by, I am already counting down until the next book!
A must-read for hockey romance lovers who adore a little fake dating, a lot of chemistry and a hero who will steal your heart.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🏒 College Hockey Romance
🏠 Roommates to Lovers
💞 Fake Dating
🔥 Enemies to Lovers
🚫 Hockey Player Hating FMC
😏 Cocky Hockey Player MMC
💋 Forced Proximity
🤝 A Deal Between Them
👀 Opposites Attract
❤️🔥 He Falls First Energy
🛡️ Protective MMC
🤫 Pretend Relationship
💔 Complicated Past
🥹 Emotional Romance
💚 Green Flag MMC
🔥 Undeniable Chemistry
😮💨 Slow Burn Tension
💞 Feelings They Didn't See Coming
👀 Jealous Ex
🤍 Learning to Trust Again
💋 Fake Kisses, Real Feelings
❤️ Happily Ever After
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Now We're Even was such a fun, sweet and emotional college hockey romance, and honestly, Nora and Callahan were exactly the kind of pairing I love. Give me a cocky hockey player, a girl who wants absolutely nothing to do with him, forced proximity and fake dating, and I am completely sold.
Nora has every reason to stay away from hockey players. After everything that happened in her past, she's determined to put the scandal behind her and start fresh at Wilder U. Unfortunately, that becomes a little difficult when her new roommate turns out to be Callahan Grant.
Callahan is the star hockey player, ridiculously popular, cocky, confident and completely aware of his charm. Except Nora isn't impressed, and I absolutely loved that about her. As far as she's concerned, he's just another hockey player she wants nothing to do with.
When they strike a deal to fake date so Nora can finally get her ex to leave her alone, it seems like the perfect arrangement. She gets some peace, Callahan eventually gets the room to himself, and neither has to worry about catching feelings.
Sounds simple enough, right?
Except these two clearly didn't get the memo about keeping things fake.
What I loved most about Callahan was how much more there was to him than his cocky exterior. Yes, he knows how to flirt and push Nora's buttons, but underneath all that is someone who genuinely cares. Watching him slowly break down her walls and show her that not every hockey player deserves the same judgement was honestly so sweet.
And Nora? I loved watching her slowly let her guard down, learn to trust again and realise that Callahan might just be exactly what she needs.
Their banter was fantastic, the chemistry was undeniable, and those little moments where their fake relationship started feeling a little too real were some of my favourites. The teasing, the tension and the unexpected feelings made their romance so entertaining.
And let's be honest, there's something about a cocky hockey player falling for the one girl who refuses to fall at his feet that gets me every single time.
What made this story even better was the emotion behind Nora's past and the importance of having someone in your corner who sees you for who you really are. Callahan and Nora's connection felt genuine, and I loved watching their relationship develop.
Now We're Even delivered the perfect mix of hockey, humour, fake dating, emotional moments and romance. It was entertaining, swoony and full of those little moments that make you fall for the characters.
And Callahan Grant? Another hockey player proving that sometimes the biggest flirt is the one who falls the hardest.
Absolutely loved watching these two go from reluctant roommates to something neither of them ever expected. ❤️
🏠 Roommates to Lovers
💞 Fake Dating
🔥 Enemies to Lovers
🚫 Hockey Player Hating FMC
😏 Cocky Hockey Player MMC
💋 Forced Proximity
🤝 A Deal Between Them
👀 Opposites Attract
❤️🔥 He Falls First Energy
🛡️ Protective MMC
🤫 Pretend Relationship
💔 Complicated Past
🥹 Emotional Romance
💚 Green Flag MMC
🔥 Undeniable Chemistry
😮💨 Slow Burn Tension
💞 Feelings They Didn't See Coming
👀 Jealous Ex
🤍 Learning to Trust Again
💋 Fake Kisses, Real Feelings
❤️ Happily Ever After
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Now We're Even was such a fun, sweet and emotional college hockey romance, and honestly, Nora and Callahan were exactly the kind of pairing I love. Give me a cocky hockey player, a girl who wants absolutely nothing to do with him, forced proximity and fake dating, and I am completely sold.
Nora has every reason to stay away from hockey players. After everything that happened in her past, she's determined to put the scandal behind her and start fresh at Wilder U. Unfortunately, that becomes a little difficult when her new roommate turns out to be Callahan Grant.
Callahan is the star hockey player, ridiculously popular, cocky, confident and completely aware of his charm. Except Nora isn't impressed, and I absolutely loved that about her. As far as she's concerned, he's just another hockey player she wants nothing to do with.
When they strike a deal to fake date so Nora can finally get her ex to leave her alone, it seems like the perfect arrangement. She gets some peace, Callahan eventually gets the room to himself, and neither has to worry about catching feelings.
Sounds simple enough, right?
Except these two clearly didn't get the memo about keeping things fake.
What I loved most about Callahan was how much more there was to him than his cocky exterior. Yes, he knows how to flirt and push Nora's buttons, but underneath all that is someone who genuinely cares. Watching him slowly break down her walls and show her that not every hockey player deserves the same judgement was honestly so sweet.
And Nora? I loved watching her slowly let her guard down, learn to trust again and realise that Callahan might just be exactly what she needs.
Their banter was fantastic, the chemistry was undeniable, and those little moments where their fake relationship started feeling a little too real were some of my favourites. The teasing, the tension and the unexpected feelings made their romance so entertaining.
And let's be honest, there's something about a cocky hockey player falling for the one girl who refuses to fall at his feet that gets me every single time.
What made this story even better was the emotion behind Nora's past and the importance of having someone in your corner who sees you for who you really are. Callahan and Nora's connection felt genuine, and I loved watching their relationship develop.
Now We're Even delivered the perfect mix of hockey, humour, fake dating, emotional moments and romance. It was entertaining, swoony and full of those little moments that make you fall for the characters.
And Callahan Grant? Another hockey player proving that sometimes the biggest flirt is the one who falls the hardest.
Absolutely loved watching these two go from reluctant roommates to something neither of them ever expected. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review from author in exchange for honest review.
First of all I devoured this up. I stayed up way too late just to finish it. I could not put it down. Every chance I got I kept picking up my kindle to keep reading basically saying “F— adult responsibilities”. It had me hooked from the first chapter.
Nora and Callahan are the best examples of enemies to lovers and grumpy/sunshine only this time she’s the grumpy he’s the sunshine. Due to mysterious circumstances (and they are mysterious for us until revealed near the end) Nora is forced to transfer Wilder U and the only housing left is overflow housing apartment 434. Due to his behavior Callahan is kicked out of the hockey house into overflow housing apartment 434. The issue, there was paperwork error and there was only one room left in that apartment and now they must both share it. The best part it only has one bed.
Only having one bed you know it won’t be long before they wind up sharing it and if they do someone will build a wall but eventually that wall comes down and I love to guess whose going to be cuddler. I’m not telling you.
Nora HATES hockey players. Like she does not hide her feelings about from Callahan at all. My favorite spoiler free quote that delivers her fiesty attitude to Callahan is when he ask her if he did something her and she responds with “you exist that’s enough”. Oh was I kicking and screaming at that line.
Nora’s ex from the university she was forced to transfer from is a rival of Callahan’s wants his spot and all of sudden starts hanging around so Callahan purposes a fake dating scenario. To help her ex back off which will help him with her ex not wanting to join his team or take his spot. And if by the end of the semester her ex is gone he gets the room if not she gets the room.
I love a good fake dating trope. This one did not let me down at all especially with all the mystery behind why Nora had to transfer and what happened with her ex because obviously the two have to be connected.
They get spicy and start blurring the lines and boy when they get spicy it gets hot!!!! I loved this so much and I can’t wait for more books in this series. Callahan’s was very possessive of her before they even began fake dating I loved it.
I absolutely loved that Nora was the grumpy to Callahan’s sunshine.
Tropes you can expect:
Enemies to Lovers
Fake Dating
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Grumpy/Sunshine
First of all I devoured this up. I stayed up way too late just to finish it. I could not put it down. Every chance I got I kept picking up my kindle to keep reading basically saying “F— adult responsibilities”. It had me hooked from the first chapter.
Nora and Callahan are the best examples of enemies to lovers and grumpy/sunshine only this time she’s the grumpy he’s the sunshine. Due to mysterious circumstances (and they are mysterious for us until revealed near the end) Nora is forced to transfer Wilder U and the only housing left is overflow housing apartment 434. Due to his behavior Callahan is kicked out of the hockey house into overflow housing apartment 434. The issue, there was paperwork error and there was only one room left in that apartment and now they must both share it. The best part it only has one bed.
Only having one bed you know it won’t be long before they wind up sharing it and if they do someone will build a wall but eventually that wall comes down and I love to guess whose going to be cuddler. I’m not telling you.
Nora HATES hockey players. Like she does not hide her feelings about from Callahan at all. My favorite spoiler free quote that delivers her fiesty attitude to Callahan is when he ask her if he did something her and she responds with “you exist that’s enough”. Oh was I kicking and screaming at that line.
Nora’s ex from the university she was forced to transfer from is a rival of Callahan’s wants his spot and all of sudden starts hanging around so Callahan purposes a fake dating scenario. To help her ex back off which will help him with her ex not wanting to join his team or take his spot. And if by the end of the semester her ex is gone he gets the room if not she gets the room.
I love a good fake dating trope. This one did not let me down at all especially with all the mystery behind why Nora had to transfer and what happened with her ex because obviously the two have to be connected.
They get spicy and start blurring the lines and boy when they get spicy it gets hot!!!! I loved this so much and I can’t wait for more books in this series. Callahan’s was very possessive of her before they even began fake dating I loved it.
I absolutely loved that Nora was the grumpy to Callahan’s sunshine.
Tropes you can expect:
Enemies to Lovers
Fake Dating
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Grumpy/Sunshine
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Now We’re Even" by S.J. Sylvis delivers that rare, deeply satisfying balance where top-tier sports banter meets genuine emotional gravity.
➡️Plot Highlights & Storyline
The collision course begins when Nora transfers to Wilder U under the shadow of a past scandal that nearly cost her scholarship, determined to swear off hockey players for good. Her fresh start immediately derails when a campus housing shortage forces her to share not just a room, but a single bed, with Wilder U’s star starting hockey player, Callahan Grant. To survive, they strike a mutually beneficial deal: fake date to get Nora’s persistent ex off her back while giving Callahan a path to reclaiming the room. What starts as a convenient transaction quickly spirals as domestic proximity, fierce mutual loyalty, and scorching tension shatter the line between staged and real.
➡️Character Development: Nora & Callahan
Nora is guarded, fiercely independent, and thoroughly unimpressed by athletic swagger. Callahan is Wilder U’s golden boy—cocky and magnetic, but weighed down by an unspoken savior complex that makes him shoulder everyone else’s burdens. Instead of bruising his ego, Nora’s refusal to fall at his feet completely captivates him. Callahan loves fueling her fiery attitude, giving her playful banter and a top-tier nickname, yet beneath the teasing, he is watching, listening, and actively learning what makes her feel secure.
➡️Emotional Angst & Growth
The emotional core of the novel hinges on two people unlearning their default defense mechanisms. Nora’s past has taught her to keep her guard high and assume the worst of athletic culture. Through Callahan’s steady, protective consistency, she learns that not all athletes are cut from the same cloth, discovering the safety of letting someone fight in her corner. In turn, Nora becomes the mirror Callahan desperately needs. Her honesty forces him to strip away his self-sacrificing armor, teaching a guy who constantly takes care of others how to finally be vulnerable and allow himself to be loved.
Sammi crafts a romance that earns every bit of its payoff, taking two guarded people from friction to true partnership.
➡️Plot Highlights & Storyline
The collision course begins when Nora transfers to Wilder U under the shadow of a past scandal that nearly cost her scholarship, determined to swear off hockey players for good. Her fresh start immediately derails when a campus housing shortage forces her to share not just a room, but a single bed, with Wilder U’s star starting hockey player, Callahan Grant. To survive, they strike a mutually beneficial deal: fake date to get Nora’s persistent ex off her back while giving Callahan a path to reclaiming the room. What starts as a convenient transaction quickly spirals as domestic proximity, fierce mutual loyalty, and scorching tension shatter the line between staged and real.
➡️Character Development: Nora & Callahan
Nora is guarded, fiercely independent, and thoroughly unimpressed by athletic swagger. Callahan is Wilder U’s golden boy—cocky and magnetic, but weighed down by an unspoken savior complex that makes him shoulder everyone else’s burdens. Instead of bruising his ego, Nora’s refusal to fall at his feet completely captivates him. Callahan loves fueling her fiery attitude, giving her playful banter and a top-tier nickname, yet beneath the teasing, he is watching, listening, and actively learning what makes her feel secure.
➡️Emotional Angst & Growth
The emotional core of the novel hinges on two people unlearning their default defense mechanisms. Nora’s past has taught her to keep her guard high and assume the worst of athletic culture. Through Callahan’s steady, protective consistency, she learns that not all athletes are cut from the same cloth, discovering the safety of letting someone fight in her corner. In turn, Nora becomes the mirror Callahan desperately needs. Her honesty forces him to strip away his self-sacrificing armor, teaching a guy who constantly takes care of others how to finally be vulnerable and allow himself to be loved.
Sammi crafts a romance that earns every bit of its payoff, taking two guarded people from friction to true partnership.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I ate this up! Nora and Cal had everything you want in an dislike to lovers, roommate to lovers, fake dating story. Their chemistry is palpable from their first introduction. Their banter was fiery and constantly had me laughing.
There is nothing I love more than when an MMC is used to everyone eating out of the palm of his hands, and he meets the one person who doesn’t. Nora and Cal delivered! Nora is fiery and stubborn. Who currently despises jocks, but especially hockey players. She doesn’t make it a secret. Cal loves pushing her buttons because it’s refreshing she isn’t easily charmed. He loves when she gives him attitude, and more when he makes her blush. Nora immediately has Cal’s attention as soon as they are in the same room. And the nickname Cal gives her? Perfection. Also their nightly text messages while lying next to each other, had me kicking my feet.
And their deal? They don’t shake on it, they kiss to seal the deal! If their chemistry wasn’t palpable before this kiss it sure was on fire now. And the fake dating? The line between fake and real was getting blurred real quick. But they put on a convincing show, even though I think it was more for themselves. I along with everyone else was waiting for them to admit it was real.
At the start Nora was guarded and didn’t trust easily. I loved seeing her confidence grow and find her love for hockey again. I especially loved as she began to trust Cal.
Cal has a savior complex. I loved seeing him realize he can’t save everyone and sometimes he needs to let them make their own mistakes and learn from them.
And their roommates? Absolutely love them. Evie is the quiet one, who keeps to herself but knows everything. She has perfect comedic timing. Skye is a girl’s girl who will hype you up, put your ex in his place, and is a hopeless romantic. Everyone deserves a Skye in their lives! Milo is a D.J. for campus parties, and his mic moments at the parties had me laughing.
Thank you, S.J. Sylvis and Valentine PR for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions, and a review.
There is nothing I love more than when an MMC is used to everyone eating out of the palm of his hands, and he meets the one person who doesn’t. Nora and Cal delivered! Nora is fiery and stubborn. Who currently despises jocks, but especially hockey players. She doesn’t make it a secret. Cal loves pushing her buttons because it’s refreshing she isn’t easily charmed. He loves when she gives him attitude, and more when he makes her blush. Nora immediately has Cal’s attention as soon as they are in the same room. And the nickname Cal gives her? Perfection. Also their nightly text messages while lying next to each other, had me kicking my feet.
And their deal? They don’t shake on it, they kiss to seal the deal! If their chemistry wasn’t palpable before this kiss it sure was on fire now. And the fake dating? The line between fake and real was getting blurred real quick. But they put on a convincing show, even though I think it was more for themselves. I along with everyone else was waiting for them to admit it was real.
At the start Nora was guarded and didn’t trust easily. I loved seeing her confidence grow and find her love for hockey again. I especially loved as she began to trust Cal.
Cal has a savior complex. I loved seeing him realize he can’t save everyone and sometimes he needs to let them make their own mistakes and learn from them.
And their roommates? Absolutely love them. Evie is the quiet one, who keeps to herself but knows everything. She has perfect comedic timing. Skye is a girl’s girl who will hype you up, put your ex in his place, and is a hopeless romantic. Everyone deserves a Skye in their lives! Milo is a D.J. for campus parties, and his mic moments at the parties had me laughing.
Thank you, S.J. Sylvis and Valentine PR for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions, and a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first book by S.J. Sylvis, and what a fun introduction to her writing! I was hooked on Nora and Callahan's story from the very beginning. Between the unexpected living arrangement, the fake dating situation, and two people who seem to have a comeback for absolutely everything, this was such an entertaining read.
Callahan might be a talented hockey player, but there's so much more to him than meets the eye. He's someone who carries far more than he lets on, and watching Nora slowly break through his walls was one of my favourite parts of their relationship. I loved that their connection wasn't just about the physical attraction. They challenged each other, showed up when it mattered, and brought out sides of one another that had been hidden away for far too long.
Nora was such a great match for him! I adored her personality, the way she stood her ground, and how she never hesitated to support Callahan. And Callahan? Watching this man go from constantly trying to keep everyone at a distance to completely falling for Nora was SO satisfying.
The chemistry between these two is everything. The back-and-forth, the little moments, the teasing, and all that pent-up tension made it impossible not to root for them. Add some delicious spice, a fun cast of supporting characters, and a romance that leaves you smiling, and you have a pretty fantastic hockey romance!
I'm so glad I picked this one up, and after this first experience, S.J. Sylvis is definitely an author I'll be keeping an eye on!
A huge thank you to Valentine PR and S.J. Sylvis for the opportunity to read this ARC. ❤️
Callahan might be a talented hockey player, but there's so much more to him than meets the eye. He's someone who carries far more than he lets on, and watching Nora slowly break through his walls was one of my favourite parts of their relationship. I loved that their connection wasn't just about the physical attraction. They challenged each other, showed up when it mattered, and brought out sides of one another that had been hidden away for far too long.
Nora was such a great match for him! I adored her personality, the way she stood her ground, and how she never hesitated to support Callahan. And Callahan? Watching this man go from constantly trying to keep everyone at a distance to completely falling for Nora was SO satisfying.
The chemistry between these two is everything. The back-and-forth, the little moments, the teasing, and all that pent-up tension made it impossible not to root for them. Add some delicious spice, a fun cast of supporting characters, and a romance that leaves you smiling, and you have a pretty fantastic hockey romance!
I'm so glad I picked this one up, and after this first experience, S.J. Sylvis is definitely an author I'll be keeping an eye on!
A huge thank you to Valentine PR and S.J. Sylvis for the opportunity to read this ARC. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Now We Are Even by S. J. Sylvis
When I think about Fake Dating, besides being one of my favorite tropes, it's also a trope that concerns me because it can be too cliché and sometimes just doesn't get me. And that's the point: the more cliché the trope is, the more we need from the story, and this book delivered!
Nora and Callahan are stuck together in the overflow dorm after her latest transfer from Alder University to Wilder U, following a personal situation that led to her losing her full scholarship and ending up with a partial scholarship. Really messy... And Callahan had to leave the Hockey Team House after being put on probation for protecting his teammates during their partying issues.
What they didn't expect was not only having to share a room but also the only bed in it. I know, it keeps the cliché of forced proximity alive, but believe me, this book is SO good!
The apartment brings new friends, and they are all so good together! I love when the side characters complement the book and bring us such funny moments that we just can't stop reading, and that's exactly what happened to me.
Well, back to them: her ex keeps stalking her, and coincidentally, Callahan is not a big fan of him either. That leads to the fake relationship, and I was feeling like part of the apartment crew, sharing the same opinion: they are faking it WAY too perfectly. This is definitely leading to real feelings!
The chemistry, the enemies-to-friends-to-lovers, the friendship between the main characters and the side characters... This book just hooks you, and it's impossible to put it down! I loved it, and I can't stop recommending it!
When I think about Fake Dating, besides being one of my favorite tropes, it's also a trope that concerns me because it can be too cliché and sometimes just doesn't get me. And that's the point: the more cliché the trope is, the more we need from the story, and this book delivered!
Nora and Callahan are stuck together in the overflow dorm after her latest transfer from Alder University to Wilder U, following a personal situation that led to her losing her full scholarship and ending up with a partial scholarship. Really messy... And Callahan had to leave the Hockey Team House after being put on probation for protecting his teammates during their partying issues.
What they didn't expect was not only having to share a room but also the only bed in it. I know, it keeps the cliché of forced proximity alive, but believe me, this book is SO good!
The apartment brings new friends, and they are all so good together! I love when the side characters complement the book and bring us such funny moments that we just can't stop reading, and that's exactly what happened to me.
Well, back to them: her ex keeps stalking her, and coincidentally, Callahan is not a big fan of him either. That leads to the fake relationship, and I was feeling like part of the apartment crew, sharing the same opinion: they are faking it WAY too perfectly. This is definitely leading to real feelings!
The chemistry, the enemies-to-friends-to-lovers, the friendship between the main characters and the side characters... This book just hooks you, and it's impossible to put it down! I loved it, and I can't stop recommending it!
November 2, 2026
I devoured this one! There’s something about an SJ book, it sucks you right in and you can’t put it down!
Nora Dawson is a late transfer to WU and is salty towards hockey players, as she has every reason to be. & who does she get roomed with but hockey player Callahan Grant?
I had the best time with Callahan and Nora. These two had some of the best banter ever that I caught myself multiple times laughing out loud. Their little one-bed roommate situation turns into a fake dating deal to try to give her ex the hint.. that he clearly does just not get. Winner gets the bedroom. I am a sucker for a fake dating trope and this one was perfect.
I loved how Cal loved rile Nora up and get her fiery attitude. Hence her nickname that fit perfectly. Fiery girl but he loves it! The chemistry these two had was hottt! A bit of a slower burn, but to watch this man fall for her and how protective he was of her so quickly! I loved how supportive they were of one another also. & Nora finally being able to see there was much more to Cal than just the hockey player.
I’m definitely going to be going back to get Nolan & Hannah’s story, because brother’s best friend? Yes please. The whole crew in this one made it so much fun as well. Between all the roommates, Juliet & the Wilder U hockey guys. I’m excited to see what’s to come for Wilder U. I have a guess who’s coming next!
Thank you SJ & Valentine PR for this ARC!
What to expect:
•hockey romance
•roommates to lovers
•one bed
•fake dating
•forced proximity
•he falls first
•ex’s rival
Nora Dawson is a late transfer to WU and is salty towards hockey players, as she has every reason to be. & who does she get roomed with but hockey player Callahan Grant?
I had the best time with Callahan and Nora. These two had some of the best banter ever that I caught myself multiple times laughing out loud. Their little one-bed roommate situation turns into a fake dating deal to try to give her ex the hint.. that he clearly does just not get. Winner gets the bedroom. I am a sucker for a fake dating trope and this one was perfect.
I loved how Cal loved rile Nora up and get her fiery attitude. Hence her nickname that fit perfectly. Fiery girl but he loves it! The chemistry these two had was hottt! A bit of a slower burn, but to watch this man fall for her and how protective he was of her so quickly! I loved how supportive they were of one another also. & Nora finally being able to see there was much more to Cal than just the hockey player.
I’m definitely going to be going back to get Nolan & Hannah’s story, because brother’s best friend? Yes please. The whole crew in this one made it so much fun as well. Between all the roommates, Juliet & the Wilder U hockey guys. I’m excited to see what’s to come for Wilder U. I have a guess who’s coming next!
Thank you SJ & Valentine PR for this ARC!
What to expect:
•hockey romance
•roommates to lovers
•one bed
•fake dating
•forced proximity
•he falls first
•ex’s rival
Review of advance copy received from Author
I always love being back at Wilder U & Now We're Even by SJ Sylvis was such a fun, easy read! I really enjoyed Callahan & Nora's story, especially their banter, which was SO good!
I loved the dynamic between these two! Nora wants absolutely nothing to do with hockey players, which is a little difficult when she unexpectedly finds herself rooming with Callahan. And of course, he seems to get the biggest kick out of pushing her buttons! Their back & forth was so entertaining, & I loved how much Callahan enjoyed getting a reaction out of her.
This is definitely a slow burn, but what I really appreciated was the character depth we got from both of them. There's so much more to Callahan than his cocky, charming exterior, & Nora has her own reasons for keeping people at a distance. I really enjoyed watching their walls slowly come down & their relationship develop into something more.
The last 30% was easily my favorite part of the book! This is where things really picked up for me, & I was so invested in how everything would play out. I loved seeing all that buildup finally pay off & getting those sweeter, more emotional moments between them.
At under 300 pages, this was such a quick, enjoyable read! A fun mix of banter, chemistry & heart, & another entertaining addition to the Wilder U series!
🏒 College Hockey
🏠 Accidental Roommates
💕 Fake Dating
🛏️ One Bed
🔥 Slow Burn
💗 He Falls First Vibes
✌🏻 Dual POV
I loved the dynamic between these two! Nora wants absolutely nothing to do with hockey players, which is a little difficult when she unexpectedly finds herself rooming with Callahan. And of course, he seems to get the biggest kick out of pushing her buttons! Their back & forth was so entertaining, & I loved how much Callahan enjoyed getting a reaction out of her.
This is definitely a slow burn, but what I really appreciated was the character depth we got from both of them. There's so much more to Callahan than his cocky, charming exterior, & Nora has her own reasons for keeping people at a distance. I really enjoyed watching their walls slowly come down & their relationship develop into something more.
The last 30% was easily my favorite part of the book! This is where things really picked up for me, & I was so invested in how everything would play out. I loved seeing all that buildup finally pay off & getting those sweeter, more emotional moments between them.
At under 300 pages, this was such a quick, enjoyable read! A fun mix of banter, chemistry & heart, & another entertaining addition to the Wilder U series!
🏒 College Hockey
🏠 Accidental Roommates
💕 Fake Dating
🛏️ One Bed
🔥 Slow Burn
💗 He Falls First Vibes
✌🏻 Dual POV
Review of advance copy
My trust in S.J. Sylvis stays intact.
The second she announced she was coming back to the Wilder U campus I was ecstatic. “Call me teach” was the book I found her with. And I knew there were more stories to be told.
Callahan and Nora were a delightful treat. Their banter was fiery, their chemistry palpable from the beginning, and their growing relationship so easy and honest it was impossible to not root for them.
They both had some issues that pulled them down, but the way they learnt to lean on each other, to trust and help however they could.
Oh and the spice was immaculate. The way Nora grew confident and comfortable thanks to the way Callahan just melted into a puddle of attraction, attention and lust whenever she was near made me blush. And a personal favorite, the more kissing the better imo, these two knew ball.
I loved every bit of this, from the ridiculous living arrangements to the other characters that were pushing Cal and Nora to get over the “fake” (really to stop lying to themselves lol). Nora’s love for hockey journalism coming back, and Callahan’s tendencies to “save everyone” going away thanks to the other…yeah I loved it so much.
Thank you Valentine and S.J. for the arc!
PS. I’m sure your stepdad is beyond proud of you S.J. Sorry for your loss.
The second she announced she was coming back to the Wilder U campus I was ecstatic. “Call me teach” was the book I found her with. And I knew there were more stories to be told.
Callahan and Nora were a delightful treat. Their banter was fiery, their chemistry palpable from the beginning, and their growing relationship so easy and honest it was impossible to not root for them.
They both had some issues that pulled them down, but the way they learnt to lean on each other, to trust and help however they could.
Oh and the spice was immaculate. The way Nora grew confident and comfortable thanks to the way Callahan just melted into a puddle of attraction, attention and lust whenever she was near made me blush. And a personal favorite, the more kissing the better imo, these two knew ball.
I loved every bit of this, from the ridiculous living arrangements to the other characters that were pushing Cal and Nora to get over the “fake” (really to stop lying to themselves lol). Nora’s love for hockey journalism coming back, and Callahan’s tendencies to “save everyone” going away thanks to the other…yeah I loved it so much.
Thank you Valentine and S.J. for the arc!
PS. I’m sure your stepdad is beyond proud of you S.J. Sorry for your loss.
November 3, 2026
At the heart of this NA novella are a few serious topics: a parent with alcoholism, fractured family, betrayal, and the inequitable disciplinary treatment of university athletes vs. non-athletic students. However, it’s wrapped in a great deal of immaturity and tired dialogue. I appreciate that the age group being depicted undoubtedly would use lots of colloquialisms but I would’ve preferred to read far less bro-speak and rage baiting, etc.
There’s a clear villain here in Nora’s sort of ex-boyfriend who also has it out for Cal, and yay for a girl squad who stick with Nora and believe in her, although in most instances they’re more interested in getting her to dress more provocatively to gain the attention of men. In that same vein, many of the secondary characters (especially the hockey “groupies”) are cliches of envious, grasping vipers, and come across as one dimensional.
Nora and Callahan’s romance is sweet, and when they finally stop denying their feelings, it is satisfying. I just wish there were more interactions with Nora and her newfound friends that didn’t have to do with her relationship with Callahan.
I received an advance reader copy from Valentine PR, and I’m sharing my honest review.
There’s a clear villain here in Nora’s sort of ex-boyfriend who also has it out for Cal, and yay for a girl squad who stick with Nora and believe in her, although in most instances they’re more interested in getting her to dress more provocatively to gain the attention of men. In that same vein, many of the secondary characters (especially the hockey “groupies”) are cliches of envious, grasping vipers, and come across as one dimensional.
Nora and Callahan’s romance is sweet, and when they finally stop denying their feelings, it is satisfying. I just wish there were more interactions with Nora and her newfound friends that didn’t have to do with her relationship with Callahan.
I received an advance reader copy from Valentine PR, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
-Fake Dating
-Hockey Romance
-Enemies to Lovers
-Forced Proximity
-Roommates
So, if you want a book that has the most banter possible with the most sexual tension possible, pick up this book. These two absolutely hate each other. They hate the circumstance that they are both in. Not only is Nora having to deal with her awful ex even after she left her old university, she now has to share a bed/room with a hockey player. Did we mention she has sworn off hockey players ?
Nora is going through possibly the worst of her life. She was treated awfully by her ex. She was forced to leave her school and is now attending a new school on half the scholarship. But now she has to share a room/bed with a sexy hockey player who is doing nothing but driving her crazy. She absolutely hates him, until she starts faking dating him/getting to know him. Callahan might be just what Nora needs in her life, someone who won’t back down and will challenge her.
Callahan is too nice of a guy. He will not stop taking the fall for other people’s mistakes. He wants to constantly protect other people until it forces him to be removed from the hockey house, where he now is sharing a room with the one woman who can’t stand him. But why does he stop at nothing to constantly protect her ? It’s obvious there is some serious tension and undeniable connection even underneath the amazing banter/hate.
Thank you to the author and agency for allowing me to read this advanced reader’s copy!
-Hockey Romance
-Enemies to Lovers
-Forced Proximity
-Roommates
So, if you want a book that has the most banter possible with the most sexual tension possible, pick up this book. These two absolutely hate each other. They hate the circumstance that they are both in. Not only is Nora having to deal with her awful ex even after she left her old university, she now has to share a bed/room with a hockey player. Did we mention she has sworn off hockey players ?
Nora is going through possibly the worst of her life. She was treated awfully by her ex. She was forced to leave her school and is now attending a new school on half the scholarship. But now she has to share a room/bed with a sexy hockey player who is doing nothing but driving her crazy. She absolutely hates him, until she starts faking dating him/getting to know him. Callahan might be just what Nora needs in her life, someone who won’t back down and will challenge her.
Callahan is too nice of a guy. He will not stop taking the fall for other people’s mistakes. He wants to constantly protect other people until it forces him to be removed from the hockey house, where he now is sharing a room with the one woman who can’t stand him. But why does he stop at nothing to constantly protect her ? It’s obvious there is some serious tension and undeniable connection even underneath the amazing banter/hate.
Thank you to the author and agency for allowing me to read this advanced reader’s copy!
October 31, 2026
If you’re still fighting your Off Campus’ hangover, look no further! This book will be your perfect pick me up!
A fake dating hockey romance, with the addition of “only one bed” and a frenemies vibe..what’s not to like!
I truly had a great time with this book.
I feel the writing style, dialogues and overall plot do represent a realistic college set up, making me really enjoy and relate to this read.
Both characters are very likeable. They both have a great head on their shoulders, are strong and fiercely independent in their own ways.
Their relationship develops naturally, with good banter and honest feelings 😊
I loved discovering the truth on Nora’s past, as well as having a glance in Callahan’s family life - if anything I would have liked to dwell on it even more.
While touching on serious topics, the book remains a light read, and for this I honestly believe everyone would enjoy it!
The book is a connected standalone, and while there are glimpses on other characters, the main couple takes proper centre stage, making the book a great read on its own, if you don’t want to commit to the series.
A fake dating hockey romance, with the addition of “only one bed” and a frenemies vibe..what’s not to like!
I truly had a great time with this book.
I feel the writing style, dialogues and overall plot do represent a realistic college set up, making me really enjoy and relate to this read.
Both characters are very likeable. They both have a great head on their shoulders, are strong and fiercely independent in their own ways.
Their relationship develops naturally, with good banter and honest feelings 😊
I loved discovering the truth on Nora’s past, as well as having a glance in Callahan’s family life - if anything I would have liked to dwell on it even more.
While touching on serious topics, the book remains a light read, and for this I honestly believe everyone would enjoy it!
The book is a connected standalone, and while there are glimpses on other characters, the main couple takes proper centre stage, making the book a great read on its own, if you don’t want to commit to the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I want the whole world to know, Fireball.”
The queen of hockey romances has returned with this incredible addition to the Wilder U series. Callahan and Nora’s story is such a fun one that will have you hooked from the very first page. If you LOVE hockey romances, forced proximity, and a one bed situation, this is the book for you!
Callahan and Nora are both such wonderful characters. Nora is forced to transfer universities after a situation occurs in her old school. She isn’t thrilled to be moving schools, but if it means keeping her scholarship, she’ll do anything. Callahan is always stuck cleaning up the messes of his younger teammates. His coach kicks him out of the hockey house and he is forced to live in the dorms. But what happens when BOTH of them are assigned the same room…with only one bed?!?
I think the banter in this story was wonderful!I wish the book was even longer..so I could get more of Callahan and Nora. I enjoyed reading about the side characters and thought they were extremely interesting. I am excited for SJ Sylvis’ next book! I recommend this one if you’re looking for a shorter hockey romance (that is such a fun read).
The queen of hockey romances has returned with this incredible addition to the Wilder U series. Callahan and Nora’s story is such a fun one that will have you hooked from the very first page. If you LOVE hockey romances, forced proximity, and a one bed situation, this is the book for you!
Callahan and Nora are both such wonderful characters. Nora is forced to transfer universities after a situation occurs in her old school. She isn’t thrilled to be moving schools, but if it means keeping her scholarship, she’ll do anything. Callahan is always stuck cleaning up the messes of his younger teammates. His coach kicks him out of the hockey house and he is forced to live in the dorms. But what happens when BOTH of them are assigned the same room…with only one bed?!?
I think the banter in this story was wonderful!I wish the book was even longer..so I could get more of Callahan and Nora. I enjoyed reading about the side characters and thought they were extremely interesting. I am excited for SJ Sylvis’ next book! I recommend this one if you’re looking for a shorter hockey romance (that is such a fun read).
October 30, 2026
Ahhh SJ you never disappoint and this book pulled me out of my reading slump. I devoured this book in one day! Nora is forced to transfer to Wilder U because her previous school was covering up a scandal. With only one room left to live in at the overflow housing apartments, Nora unexpectedly finds herself sharing a room with the school’s number one hockey player, Callahan. Callahan doesn’t do girlfriends but when Nora’s ex who also happens to be trying to force his way into Wilder U’s hockey team keeps showing up where he isn’t wanted, the two decided to date in hopes he will leave Nora alone and stop hanging around Wilder U’s hockey team.
Gosh, I loved this book so much. The banter was so good. Ugh! The chemistry between Callahan and Nora was so good. They way they were both fighting their feelings but really truly cared and trusted each other. I needed more of them and their happily ever after.
📖 read if you like:
Fake dating
Forced proximity
One Bed
Ex’s rival
He falls first
Reformed player
Hockey
Gosh, I loved this book so much. The banter was so good. Ugh! The chemistry between Callahan and Nora was so good. They way they were both fighting their feelings but really truly cared and trusted each other. I needed more of them and their happily ever after.
📖 read if you like:
Fake dating
Forced proximity
One Bed
Ex’s rival
He falls first
Reformed player
Hockey
November 3, 2026
To say I was excited about receiving this e-arc from ValentinePR would be an understatement! I absolutely love S.J. Sylvis’ writing! I read this book in a day and enjoyed every moment of it.
The story:
A college hockey romance with fake-dating, loads of chemistry and top-tier banter! Our FMC, Nora was such a fierce little character and I enjoyed her journey so much! Urgh and our MMC, Cal was actually such a sweetheart and extremely protective of his “fake-girlfriend”…
What stuck with me:
The way Cal showed up for Nora and vice versa! I really like that both had a backstory of why they were a bit closed off.
What surprised me:
The banter and the fact that I flew through this book! It was such a quick read!!
What frustrated me:
Chase and Aiden - I felt that the had too much screen-time…
What I would tell another reader
If you like a college romance with an over the top protective MMC and a feisty FMC then you’ll definitely enjoy this book! Thank you SJSylvis and Valentinepr for this e-arc in return for an honest review!!
The story:
A college hockey romance with fake-dating, loads of chemistry and top-tier banter! Our FMC, Nora was such a fierce little character and I enjoyed her journey so much! Urgh and our MMC, Cal was actually such a sweetheart and extremely protective of his “fake-girlfriend”…
What stuck with me:
The way Cal showed up for Nora and vice versa! I really like that both had a backstory of why they were a bit closed off.
What surprised me:
The banter and the fact that I flew through this book! It was such a quick read!!
What frustrated me:
Chase and Aiden - I felt that the had too much screen-time…
What I would tell another reader
If you like a college romance with an over the top protective MMC and a feisty FMC then you’ll definitely enjoy this book! Thank you SJSylvis and Valentinepr for this e-arc in return for an honest review!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love forced proximity, one bed, fake dating, and banter for days, hockey romance this is the book for you. Callahan is the star hockey player and fixer, that is until his fixing gets him thrown out of the hockey house and into overflow housing. Nora is on a forced transfer from another university, late in the semester who is also forced into overflow housing.
As you can imagine, sparks fly and not always the good kind. These two bait each other in the best and worst ways, and the banter is great. He loves to push her buttons just to see her fiery side come out, even going so far as to give her a nickname for it.
This fake relationship develops into something real, but there are a few twists that threaten to tear their new trust and relationship apart. This was a quick and fun read with all the banter, and longing I have come to expect from Sylvis. She did not disappoint!
As you can imagine, sparks fly and not always the good kind. These two bait each other in the best and worst ways, and the banter is great. He loves to push her buttons just to see her fiery side come out, even going so far as to give her a nickname for it.
This fake relationship develops into something real, but there are a few twists that threaten to tear their new trust and relationship apart. This was a quick and fun read with all the banter, and longing I have come to expect from Sylvis. She did not disappoint!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
S.J. Sylvis has done it again. She wrote a book I couldn't put down! She gave us accidental roommates with the added bonus of only one bed!
I loved Callahan and Nora! Callahan has a heart of gold and a tendency to fix or cover for people even when they don't deserve it. Nora has just unwillingly transferred schools. When a housing mix-up happens, they are both put in the same overflow housing apartment. The only catch is there is only one room and one bed left in the apartment. Their banter was amazing and some of my favorite parts of the book.
Hoping to help them both out, he proposes they fake date. His only problem is she is salty towards hockey players. He has his work cut out for him.
This book was amazing, and this series is turning out to be one of my favorites! I cannot wait for more in this series!
Thank you, S.J. Sylvis and Valentine PR, for this ARC!
I loved Callahan and Nora! Callahan has a heart of gold and a tendency to fix or cover for people even when they don't deserve it. Nora has just unwillingly transferred schools. When a housing mix-up happens, they are both put in the same overflow housing apartment. The only catch is there is only one room and one bed left in the apartment. Their banter was amazing and some of my favorite parts of the book.
Hoping to help them both out, he proposes they fake date. His only problem is she is salty towards hockey players. He has his work cut out for him.
This book was amazing, and this series is turning out to be one of my favorites! I cannot wait for more in this series!
Thank you, S.J. Sylvis and Valentine PR, for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love hockey romance, especially when it includes two people that don’t like each other very much that have to fake date. SJ Sylvis is one of the best at writing this trope and she delivers again with Now We’re Even. In this book, Callahan and Nora are forced to share a room due to a housing mix up. But they also share a common enemy, Nora’s ex boyfriend. Callahan comes up with a deal, fake date to get rid of the ex boyfriend who keeps trying to weasel his way back into Nor’s life and onto Callahan’s hockey team. If it works, Callahan gets the room. Neither one expects the fake parts to turn real. I loved every second of this book. I loved all of the other roommates and teammates. I flew through it and it was over way before I wanted it to be. Another solid book by this author. I’m hoping this turns into a series!
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