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Gods on Campus #1
Kickoff
Zoey needs a fake boyfriend. I need a babysitter.
We sure as hell don’t have time for feelings to get in the way.
I used to be the top college soccer player in the nation. Now I’m parenting my little sister and trying to survive my first year in grad school. I’m supposed to be Responsible Alex, and that comes with a strict set of rules: no drugs, no drinking, no sex.
When Zoey asks me to be her fake boyfriend to make her ex jealous, I know I shouldn’t say yes. It’s unprofessional. I’m her ex’s TA. But Zoey’s the most stubborn, hard-working person I know—she won’t give up. So I agree on one condition: she babysits my little sister so I can go to soccer practice.
On every fake date I get to touch her. Kiss her. Flirt with her.
It’s making me want to break my rules.
But she’s become my best friend. She’s hung up on her ex.
And I’ve been keeping secrets about my past.
This is never going to work.
We sure as hell don’t have time for feelings to get in the way.
I used to be the top college soccer player in the nation. Now I’m parenting my little sister and trying to survive my first year in grad school. I’m supposed to be Responsible Alex, and that comes with a strict set of rules: no drugs, no drinking, no sex.
When Zoey asks me to be her fake boyfriend to make her ex jealous, I know I shouldn’t say yes. It’s unprofessional. I’m her ex’s TA. But Zoey’s the most stubborn, hard-working person I know—she won’t give up. So I agree on one condition: she babysits my little sister so I can go to soccer practice.
On every fake date I get to touch her. Kiss her. Flirt with her.
It’s making me want to break my rules.
But she’s become my best friend. She’s hung up on her ex.
And I’ve been keeping secrets about my past.
This is never going to work.
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2022
About the author
Kayla Claire
2 books36 followersKayla Claire is a new adult romance author. She writes about her true loves—soccer and Southern California weather—while weaving in a heartfelt romance, a confident heroine, and a swoon-worthy hero. She earned her BA in creative writing at the University of California, Riverside, and is currently working towards her MFA in Writing Popular Fiction at Edinburgh Napier University. She loves all sports, and when she’s not writing, she’s normally watching a game, traveling the world, or drinking cappuccinos at every coffee shop she passes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 24, 2022
Loved it but he said really awful things to her that were forgotten too easy, he needed to do more groveling.
November 23, 2022
Ugh! This book lost me in the first few pages.
So, this dumb chick has a friends-with-benefits gig going on, happily allowing herself to be the booty call on the reg, then is surprised the dude gets a girlfriend over summer and it’s not HER?
Unfortunately, the value you place on yourself (or lack of value) will be reflected in the way others treat you.
Example: he texts her about why he can’t meet her anymore because his gf wouldn’t like it:
“And that’s kind of why we can’t hang out today. Like she was chill with the frat party, but I don’t think she would be comfortable with me hanging out with someone I’ve had sex with.”
Next paragraph. FMC thinking: “I sit on the floor, strangling the phone with my hand. Now I’m just someone he’s had sex with? Aren’t we at least friends? We were friends for months before we even started hooking up.
Besides, that’s all he ever told his friends we were. Friends. Just friends. He kept our fuckdates hidden from them.”
Lovely term, that one: fuckdates.
Who wants to read about a stupid girl with no self-respect like her, and shitty American College jocks like him?
Weeding out the dross in the College Romance genre is tedious, but this is unfortunately dross.
So, this dumb chick has a friends-with-benefits gig going on, happily allowing herself to be the booty call on the reg, then is surprised the dude gets a girlfriend over summer and it’s not HER?
Unfortunately, the value you place on yourself (or lack of value) will be reflected in the way others treat you.
Example: he texts her about why he can’t meet her anymore because his gf wouldn’t like it:
“And that’s kind of why we can’t hang out today. Like she was chill with the frat party, but I don’t think she would be comfortable with me hanging out with someone I’ve had sex with.”
Next paragraph. FMC thinking: “I sit on the floor, strangling the phone with my hand. Now I’m just someone he’s had sex with? Aren’t we at least friends? We were friends for months before we even started hooking up.
Besides, that’s all he ever told his friends we were. Friends. Just friends. He kept our fuckdates hidden from them.”
Lovely term, that one: fuckdates.
Who wants to read about a stupid girl with no self-respect like her, and shitty American College jocks like him?
Weeding out the dross in the College Romance genre is tedious, but this is unfortunately dross.
March 22, 2022
4.5/5 stars
I cannot get over the fact that this was a debut novel, it was SO good! I basically read it in one sitting I couldn’t put it down.
This book was ADORABLE. A super cute, hilarious and wholesome college sports romance with two overly nerdy but super confident MCs, what more could you ask for? A big yes for my fellow sports romance fanatics who like loveable characters, some great chemistry and sexual tension and the best part, fake dating (hell yea!!) It was such a fun and easy read to get lost in!
I love love loved Zoey and Alex so much! They had the most adorable meet cute ever and their friendship was one of my favourite things about this book. I adored the fact that they became best friends first, I feel like it only added to their chemistry and made their interactions that much cuter. You were rooting for them from the get go even as friends, erm who needs Z when you have an Alex okay?!
The chemistry between these two was off the charts and made that slow build up so so worth it, they had the best banter and the way they supported and rooted for each other in every aspect of their lives was great. I loved the football boys and Tessa too, I see the potential for more books and I’m sooo excited.
I really enjoyed their separate arcs as well. It was amazing to see a confident, beautiful female MC who was nerdy and so set and passionate about her future and her career path, I loved watching her story unravel and rooting for her happy ending.
Also seeing Alex find himself throughout the book and repair those broken relationships in his life and make his own choices made my heart very happy!
For fans of Elle Kennedy, Maya Hughes and Alley Ciz, you’re guaranteed to love Zoey and Alex
I cannot get over the fact that this was a debut novel, it was SO good! I basically read it in one sitting I couldn’t put it down.
This book was ADORABLE. A super cute, hilarious and wholesome college sports romance with two overly nerdy but super confident MCs, what more could you ask for? A big yes for my fellow sports romance fanatics who like loveable characters, some great chemistry and sexual tension and the best part, fake dating (hell yea!!) It was such a fun and easy read to get lost in!
I love love loved Zoey and Alex so much! They had the most adorable meet cute ever and their friendship was one of my favourite things about this book. I adored the fact that they became best friends first, I feel like it only added to their chemistry and made their interactions that much cuter. You were rooting for them from the get go even as friends, erm who needs Z when you have an Alex okay?!
The chemistry between these two was off the charts and made that slow build up so so worth it, they had the best banter and the way they supported and rooted for each other in every aspect of their lives was great. I loved the football boys and Tessa too, I see the potential for more books and I’m sooo excited.
I really enjoyed their separate arcs as well. It was amazing to see a confident, beautiful female MC who was nerdy and so set and passionate about her future and her career path, I loved watching her story unravel and rooting for her happy ending.
Also seeing Alex find himself throughout the book and repair those broken relationships in his life and make his own choices made my heart very happy!
For fans of Elle Kennedy, Maya Hughes and Alley Ciz, you’re guaranteed to love Zoey and Alex
May 2, 2022
4.5/5 stars ⭐ Man oh man, this book was made for me. Slow burn with enough payoff? Check. Realistic, well-built friends-to-lovers? Check. Fake dating? Check. Crackling chemistry with steam? Check, check, check. Absolutely loved it. This writing style is the only way I like first person. The plot kept my interest, and the tension and relationship development was so good. I only took off half a star bc the ending fell a tiny bit short for me, but I was mainly mad at Alex's parents. They were awful people, and I wish that aspect was addressed more. Fanfiction also ruined the word smirk for me and there were a few grammatical errors, but that's me being picky. What a fantastic debut novel. Will definitely read the next book when it's released!
*Spoilers below*
POV: Dual POV, first person, present tense
Romance Type: Perfect amount of slow burn
Series Info: Gods on Campus #1 but can be read as a standalone. Book 2 still in the works
Trope(s): Friends-to-lovers, fake dating, minor one bed vibes, considered sports romance but didn't really feel like it to me
Ending: HFN
Triggers: Family/self worth issues, minor car accident but no serious injuries
OW/OM: No cheating. Female lead tries to make ex lover jealous to win him back but eventually realizes she deserves better and gets over him
Steam: I was worried this cutesy cover would betray me like the Cheat Sheet did, but rest assured, it was open door
# of times: 2-3
*Spoilers below*
POV: Dual POV, first person, present tense
Romance Type: Perfect amount of slow burn
Series Info: Gods on Campus #1 but can be read as a standalone. Book 2 still in the works
Trope(s): Friends-to-lovers, fake dating, minor one bed vibes, considered sports romance but didn't really feel like it to me
Ending: HFN
Triggers: Family/self worth issues, minor car accident but no serious injuries
OW/OM: No cheating. Female lead tries to make ex lover jealous to win him back but eventually realizes she deserves better and gets over him
Steam: I was worried this cutesy cover would betray me like the Cheat Sheet did, but rest assured, it was open door
# of times: 2-3
January 4, 2023
This book HAD THE TROPES OF ALL TROPES!!!! It ticked every. Single. Box (for me).
I was going to say I wanted an extra chapter but I actually think it wrapped up really nicely.
I was literally giggling and grinning at the pages. LIKE WHAT?! It was so good. You guys know I don’t give 5 stars easily and it’s only my second book of the year??????? Amazing stuff!
Also for this being the authors first book? Immaculate.
P.S. if u enjoyed this book then I recommend Water Under the Bridge by Kels and Densie stone
I was going to say I wanted an extra chapter but I actually think it wrapped up really nicely.
I was literally giggling and grinning at the pages. LIKE WHAT?! It was so good. You guys know I don’t give 5 stars easily and it’s only my second book of the year??????? Amazing stuff!
Also for this being the authors first book? Immaculate.
P.S. if u enjoyed this book then I recommend Water Under the Bridge by Kels and Densie stone
December 7, 2022
For a debut novel I was positively surprised with the writing style and the storyline. So it was worth reading but I found some aspects not strong enough.
As this is about college the characters make mistakes and have a thought process expected for their age. I would prefer Zoey to show more backbone and definitely more groveling from Alex.... I mean he was a real d1ck to her more than once and Zoey just let it roll.. He took out his frustration on more than one occasions and said horrible things. Yes when he broke up with her, he apologized and he showed remorse. But it was too little too late..
I appreciated so much the fact that Zoey had a geo major and Alex was a mechanical engineering graduate. One of the rare occasions where the couple is not on business or MKT
🙂😉
As this is about college the characters make mistakes and have a thought process expected for their age. I would prefer Zoey to show more backbone and definitely more groveling from Alex.... I mean he was a real d1ck to her more than once and Zoey just let it roll.. He took out his frustration on more than one occasions and said horrible things. Yes when he broke up with her, he apologized and he showed remorse. But it was too little too late..
I appreciated so much the fact that Zoey had a geo major and Alex was a mechanical engineering graduate. One of the rare occasions where the couple is not on business or MKT
🙂😉
March 22, 2022
OMG, Kickoff is so delicious, entertaining and enticing. This book is a humorous, fake relationship story set in college. Alex and Zoey, the main characters, are amusing, have relationship issues and are both just trying to survive and rise above their challenges. I devoured every word and could not put down this gripping, light-hearted, feel-good and vivid story.
This book was such a delightful surprise with a hot soccer player/teacher assistant and college student tour guide. We got slow burn, fake dating, friends to lovers wrapped up with lovable characters. I can't wait to read more in this series.
This book was such a delightful surprise with a hot soccer player/teacher assistant and college student tour guide. We got slow burn, fake dating, friends to lovers wrapped up with lovable characters. I can't wait to read more in this series.
March 8, 2024
This was such a cute college romance. 🌶️1/2 out of 5 on the spice level to me. But for a debut novel it is awesome. I’m so excited to read more from the author. I was giggling and kicking my feet all the way through. I also really love how much growth both the mmc and fmc did on their own and that they had their own individual stories they were working through. Overall great read!
January 21, 2023
I give this book a 4.5 out of 5. I had a great time reading it. X
May 30, 2023
I love a good old simple rom com to give a nice break from my regular reading!
March 23, 2022
When Zoey returns to college after a summer abroad, she has made up her mind that Z, her friend with benefits, will become boyfriend. To her surprise, Z didn't spend the summer pining over her, he went and found himself a girlfriend. Now Zoey is heartbroken, but she is determined to win Z back and claim her man. The brilliant plan she came up with was to find a guy and make Z jealous. Alex just so happens to be the man she found, but after that the plan is not so easy. She finds herself thinking about Alex when she should be thinking about Z. Will she give up on the crazy plan of getting Z back and work a new plan to get Alex for real?
There was so much going on in this story, and what I have mentioned doesn't even cover half the book. I have so many thoughts about this story and not sure what direction to go with them. For me, this was just an ok book; for a book so long and filled with drama it felt like it dragged on forever. I started this liking Zoey and then at one point with one cringe worthy sentence, all my like for her went out the window and I found her pathetic. Best part of the story for me was when she stood her ground and let go of all she was holding in. Filled with loads and I mean LOADS of drama on both Alex and Zoey's part, we get some ok naughty bits, and add a few funny moments and we get this story, I give it 3.5 stars.
There was so much going on in this story, and what I have mentioned doesn't even cover half the book. I have so many thoughts about this story and not sure what direction to go with them. For me, this was just an ok book; for a book so long and filled with drama it felt like it dragged on forever. I started this liking Zoey and then at one point with one cringe worthy sentence, all my like for her went out the window and I found her pathetic. Best part of the story for me was when she stood her ground and let go of all she was holding in. Filled with loads and I mean LOADS of drama on both Alex and Zoey's part, we get some ok naughty bits, and add a few funny moments and we get this story, I give it 3.5 stars.
December 2, 2022
Hmm…
I really wanted to enjoy this book. Unfortunately it fell flat for me. I couldn’t find any chemistry between the two main characters.
I really wanted to enjoy this book. Unfortunately it fell flat for me. I couldn’t find any chemistry between the two main characters.
December 26, 2022
I had a great time
January 16, 2024
“And what will happen to us after this is over?” I smirk at her. “Come on. You do know the second F in BFF stands for forever, right?”
The story of Zoey and Alex is something you can only see in movies and read in books: a fake boyfriend, fudged up life and loads and loads of heartbreak. It is full of drama, sometimes very unnecesary, full of sexual tension and actions, which some off them were totally unnecessary (like certain someone's over the top obsession with breasts). The characters even though they're supposed to represent adults, they act more like teenagers who think they're all grown up, which is why I would probably recommend this book to teenagers, not young adults.
Zoey - The main character is extremely confident in herself which is a very inspiring thing for teenage girls, but one thing she lacks and which would make her a terrible role model is her lack of self respect when it comes to men.
Alex - Zoey's fake boyfriend and another main character is a good role model for people who thinks that they threw their life away. He changed his ways and made up for all the mistakes in his life, he followed his dreams and got to where he wanted to be. One thing though about him is that in the heat of a moment he can become a terrible person and say the most hurtful things, but he always realizes his mistakes and tries to change.
Overall the book is a nice read, wouldn't say the best, but cannot say that it's the worst, you can either really like it or you can hate it. I would give it a 3 out of 5.
The story of Zoey and Alex is something you can only see in movies and read in books: a fake boyfriend, fudged up life and loads and loads of heartbreak. It is full of drama, sometimes very unnecesary, full of sexual tension and actions, which some off them were totally unnecessary (like certain someone's over the top obsession with breasts). The characters even though they're supposed to represent adults, they act more like teenagers who think they're all grown up, which is why I would probably recommend this book to teenagers, not young adults.
Zoey - The main character is extremely confident in herself which is a very inspiring thing for teenage girls, but one thing she lacks and which would make her a terrible role model is her lack of self respect when it comes to men.
Alex - Zoey's fake boyfriend and another main character is a good role model for people who thinks that they threw their life away. He changed his ways and made up for all the mistakes in his life, he followed his dreams and got to where he wanted to be. One thing though about him is that in the heat of a moment he can become a terrible person and say the most hurtful things, but he always realizes his mistakes and tries to change.
Overall the book is a nice read, wouldn't say the best, but cannot say that it's the worst, you can either really like it or you can hate it. I would give it a 3 out of 5.
March 26, 2022
Review by: Jennifer
(3.5 Stars)
When Zoey returns to college after a summer abroad, she has made up her mind that Z, her friend with benefits, will become boyfriend. To her surprise, Z didn't spend the summer pining over her, he went and found himself a girlfriend. Now Zoey is heartbroken, but she is determined to win Z back and claim her man. The brilliant plan she came up with was to find a guy and make Z jealous. Alex just so happens to be the man she found, but after that the plan is not so easy. She finds herself thinking about Alex when she should be thinking about Z. Will she give up on the crazy plan of getting Z back and work a new plan to get Alex for real?
There was so much going on in this story, and what I have mentioned doesn't even cover half the book. I have so many thoughts about this story and not sure what direction to go with them. For me, this was just an ok book; for a book so long and filled with drama it felt like it dragged on forever. I started this liking Zoey and then at one point with one cringe worthy sentence, all my like for her went out the window and I found her pathetic. Best part of the story for me was when she stood her ground and let go of all she was holding in. Filled with loads and I mean LOADS of drama on both Alex and Zoey's part, we get some ok naughty bits, and add a few funny moments and we get this story, I give it 3.5 stars.
(3.5 Stars)
When Zoey returns to college after a summer abroad, she has made up her mind that Z, her friend with benefits, will become boyfriend. To her surprise, Z didn't spend the summer pining over her, he went and found himself a girlfriend. Now Zoey is heartbroken, but she is determined to win Z back and claim her man. The brilliant plan she came up with was to find a guy and make Z jealous. Alex just so happens to be the man she found, but after that the plan is not so easy. She finds herself thinking about Alex when she should be thinking about Z. Will she give up on the crazy plan of getting Z back and work a new plan to get Alex for real?
There was so much going on in this story, and what I have mentioned doesn't even cover half the book. I have so many thoughts about this story and not sure what direction to go with them. For me, this was just an ok book; for a book so long and filled with drama it felt like it dragged on forever. I started this liking Zoey and then at one point with one cringe worthy sentence, all my like for her went out the window and I found her pathetic. Best part of the story for me was when she stood her ground and let go of all she was holding in. Filled with loads and I mean LOADS of drama on both Alex and Zoey's part, we get some ok naughty bits, and add a few funny moments and we get this story, I give it 3.5 stars.
December 15, 2022
I frigging loved everything about this book.
*College Romance
*Friends to Lovers
*Fake Dating
*Friends-with-benefits
*Sports Romance
Need I say more? Debut novel my arse. Kayla Claire writes like a seasoned veteran. So damn GOOD!
She killed the chemistry between the two MC’s, and yes PEOPLE I am screaming for those sex scenes? Like holy sh*t, climb him like a spider monkey HAWT, I can't flipping deal; AND then she goes and kills me with those intense intimate face-to-face, nose-to-nose, moments? YEAH, jaw-dropping, panty-melting, eyes glued to the pages, pick my jaw up off the floor, roll me over, let me die, I am a MESS, AHHHHHH! Alex, I LOVE you, and Zo, want to be my best friend? Forever, still my beating heart. <3 Kayla, you had me at coffee!
Also, I have to comment on the witty banter, blunt rudeness, and just the overall feel of this book? It was truly brilliant. Kayla you are a genius, my friend. I was all up in my feels with this one; crying, laughing (hysterically), cursing, and swooning from this gal over here!! You are definitely well on your way and I cannot wait to see what you pen. BRAVO!!
*Side Note: If you love Elle Kennedy's, Off Campus Series, then pick this read-up, their writing style gives me all the same feels; nothing but warmth and utter contentment for my soul!
*College Romance
*Friends to Lovers
*Fake Dating
*Friends-with-benefits
*Sports Romance
Need I say more? Debut novel my arse. Kayla Claire writes like a seasoned veteran. So damn GOOD!
She killed the chemistry between the two MC’s, and yes PEOPLE I am screaming for those sex scenes? Like holy sh*t, climb him like a spider monkey HAWT, I can't flipping deal; AND then she goes and kills me with those intense intimate face-to-face, nose-to-nose, moments? YEAH, jaw-dropping, panty-melting, eyes glued to the pages, pick my jaw up off the floor, roll me over, let me die, I am a MESS, AHHHHHH! Alex, I LOVE you, and Zo, want to be my best friend? Forever, still my beating heart. <3 Kayla, you had me at coffee!
Also, I have to comment on the witty banter, blunt rudeness, and just the overall feel of this book? It was truly brilliant. Kayla you are a genius, my friend. I was all up in my feels with this one; crying, laughing (hysterically), cursing, and swooning from this gal over here!! You are definitely well on your way and I cannot wait to see what you pen. BRAVO!!
*Side Note: If you love Elle Kennedy's, Off Campus Series, then pick this read-up, their writing style gives me all the same feels; nothing but warmth and utter contentment for my soul!
June 6, 2022
They fake date so Zoey can make Zeus jealous and steal him from his new girlfriend, Clara. Why? Because Zoey and Zeus had an on-again, off-again friends with benefits thing and she fell for him. How? By using her new friend, Alex, with his permission...
The chemistry between Zoey and Alex is quite apparent when they first meet and they fall into this easy banter style friendship that is so fun to read about. The tension is getting stronger the more they are together, though. Thing is, Zoey is hung up on Zeus and Alex pledged a semester of celibacy while his parents are away in Spain and he is looking after his sister. They keep telling themselves that they are just friends.
Damn! That first kiss was just something else...
There is just something about this romance that I absolutely loved! Maybe it's just that I want this kind of relationship for myself. An absolutely imperfect relationship, with heat and passion, sarcasm and a dash of goofy charm!
"Looking directly at him is kind of like staring at the sun - so beautiful it might kill you."
Going from horrors to a feel-good romance that is just incredible fun, was so worth it. The genres are polar opposites, and I enjoyed every minute reading this book.
The chemistry between Zoey and Alex is quite apparent when they first meet and they fall into this easy banter style friendship that is so fun to read about. The tension is getting stronger the more they are together, though. Thing is, Zoey is hung up on Zeus and Alex pledged a semester of celibacy while his parents are away in Spain and he is looking after his sister. They keep telling themselves that they are just friends.
Damn! That first kiss was just something else...
There is just something about this romance that I absolutely loved! Maybe it's just that I want this kind of relationship for myself. An absolutely imperfect relationship, with heat and passion, sarcasm and a dash of goofy charm!
"Looking directly at him is kind of like staring at the sun - so beautiful it might kill you."
Going from horrors to a feel-good romance that is just incredible fun, was so worth it. The genres are polar opposites, and I enjoyed every minute reading this book.
March 22, 2022
This book really took me by surprise. Kickoff was the perfect choice to introduce the Gods on Campus series. Kayla Claire came out of the left-field, delivering an incredibly well-written story, that was both ridiculously steamy and laugh-out-loud funny. The characters were exceptionally inviting. Once I began reading, I couldn’t put this book down!
Zoey and Alex meet on the first day of the fall semester at Olympia College in Southern California. Their meet-cute occurs as they collide in the engineering building, where Alex accidentally douses Zoey with hot coffee. Despite their disastrous first meeting, they immediately strike up a friendship. While neither Alex nor Zoey are in a position to start a romantic relationship, their chemistry is undeniable and fairly jumps off the page.
Kickoff would be a perfect choice for fans of new-adult college sports romance. I am usually not a fan of books that include fake dating; however, I absolutely loved this book. It has been a long time since I have had the pleasure of reading a book that had me laughing out loud one minute and fanning myself the next. I can’t wait to read the following books in this series.
Zoey and Alex meet on the first day of the fall semester at Olympia College in Southern California. Their meet-cute occurs as they collide in the engineering building, where Alex accidentally douses Zoey with hot coffee. Despite their disastrous first meeting, they immediately strike up a friendship. While neither Alex nor Zoey are in a position to start a romantic relationship, their chemistry is undeniable and fairly jumps off the page.
Kickoff would be a perfect choice for fans of new-adult college sports romance. I am usually not a fan of books that include fake dating; however, I absolutely loved this book. It has been a long time since I have had the pleasure of reading a book that had me laughing out loud one minute and fanning myself the next. I can’t wait to read the following books in this series.
May 21, 2023
3.5*
This was a very basic new adult contemporary college sports romance. There was the fun fake dating trope, and a friends to lovers plot. This book included care-taking of a teenage sibling, and significant groveling from the hero. Overall, this was a very average yet steamy romance. It is very good for a debut. However, to me it did read a bit 2014-2016 romance era to me, but then again that was the time in my life when I read the most college romances. As a new grad from southern California I don't know if the college representation was the best, but it wasn't bad either. I didn't love the fact that Zoey was so hung up on Z for so long, but I do think she transitioned into a relationship with Alex well. I hated that Alex would say hurtful things to Zoey, and the grovelling never seemed enough honestly. If the guy I was falling for shoved me out a window, and basically called me a slut I wouldn't take him back honestly. So yeah, lots of positives, lots of negatives. A very average book, but impressive for a debut. I would recommend this to those just getting into new adult books while in that age range.
This was a very basic new adult contemporary college sports romance. There was the fun fake dating trope, and a friends to lovers plot. This book included care-taking of a teenage sibling, and significant groveling from the hero. Overall, this was a very average yet steamy romance. It is very good for a debut. However, to me it did read a bit 2014-2016 romance era to me, but then again that was the time in my life when I read the most college romances. As a new grad from southern California I don't know if the college representation was the best, but it wasn't bad either. I didn't love the fact that Zoey was so hung up on Z for so long, but I do think she transitioned into a relationship with Alex well. I hated that Alex would say hurtful things to Zoey, and the grovelling never seemed enough honestly. If the guy I was falling for shoved me out a window, and basically called me a slut I wouldn't take him back honestly. So yeah, lots of positives, lots of negatives. A very average book, but impressive for a debut. I would recommend this to those just getting into new adult books while in that age range.
March 23, 2022
Kickoff is the first installment in Kayla Claire’s new series ( The Gods On Campus ) a series I can already tell is going to be one of my favorites . I have to say I was completely taken by surprise by how quickly I fell in love not only with the most wonderfully written storyline that has the ability to grab onto all your emotions, tug at your heartstrings and hook so so fast but also with Alex and Zoe’s characters. Their so genuinely likable relatable and perfect together. If you are a fan of new adult romances , sports romances and a story that is filled with angst , off the charts chemistry, heartbreak, love , friendships, happiness , second chances , surprises and much much more then you will not want to miss this book . I honestly had such a hard time putting it down once I started I literally ended up reading into the early morning hours, sleep was lost but it’s was so worth it . I realize I am not sharing many details at all , but I truly believe that In order to experience what a awesome book this is you should read it for yourself
May 1, 2022
Kickoff is about Alex and Zoey finding love for the first time. Alex agrees to fake date Zoey in order to make her ex jealous, and in return she'll babysit his little sister while he goes to soccer practice.
This book is a bit on the longer side and it had a lot going on. A lot. Each character had their own subplots they were dealing with, while circling around the romance. I thought it worked really well. The writing was gripping enough to carry me through the novel, and I found it so refreshing to read a book with a female lead working on her own career and her own subplots, and she didn't have to sacrifice an inch of what she wanted to find love. She just had to find someone who wanted to help her along the way. Not only that, but her sex positive attitude, her confidence, the way she loved herself and wanted to lift everyone up around her was so amazing to see in a romance book. She's such a good role model, and might be one of my new favorite heroines.
I definitely recommend this book, even if it's just to see a new type of strong women leading romance books!
This book is a bit on the longer side and it had a lot going on. A lot. Each character had their own subplots they were dealing with, while circling around the romance. I thought it worked really well. The writing was gripping enough to carry me through the novel, and I found it so refreshing to read a book with a female lead working on her own career and her own subplots, and she didn't have to sacrifice an inch of what she wanted to find love. She just had to find someone who wanted to help her along the way. Not only that, but her sex positive attitude, her confidence, the way she loved herself and wanted to lift everyone up around her was so amazing to see in a romance book. She's such a good role model, and might be one of my new favorite heroines.
I definitely recommend this book, even if it's just to see a new type of strong women leading romance books!
March 30, 2022
I loved this novel SO much! I devoured it in two days! This book left me with all the those happy warm feeling you should get after reading a romance novel!
Firstly, I love Zoey and Tessa so much. Those type of relationships are vital during college years and I could feel the platonic love they shared. Zoey was so optimistic and confident but she still had anxiety about classes, boys, friends and life after graduating which made her realistic and so relatable.
Zoey and Alex’s story was amazing! The slow burn is what I live for and they had that fun banter with sexual tension that didn’t go to fast. Alex is hot, fun and smart, not to mention tattooed. Basically all you need in a guy. Zoey and Alex had such an instant connection that didn’t feel forced and I loved how it wasn’t a sudden romance between them.
This story flowed so well and I devoured it very quickly. I totally recommend this book to anyone that loves a fun sweet college romance!
Firstly, I love Zoey and Tessa so much. Those type of relationships are vital during college years and I could feel the platonic love they shared. Zoey was so optimistic and confident but she still had anxiety about classes, boys, friends and life after graduating which made her realistic and so relatable.
Zoey and Alex’s story was amazing! The slow burn is what I live for and they had that fun banter with sexual tension that didn’t go to fast. Alex is hot, fun and smart, not to mention tattooed. Basically all you need in a guy. Zoey and Alex had such an instant connection that didn’t feel forced and I loved how it wasn’t a sudden romance between them.
This story flowed so well and I devoured it very quickly. I totally recommend this book to anyone that loves a fun sweet college romance!
March 22, 2022
This debut college romance blew me away. I laughed. I cried. I had to fan myself off one or ten times.
Claire’s pacing and plotting are immaculate, but it was her main characters that sucked me in and made this book impossible to put down. Zoey is confident, witty, driven, and overflowing with personality. She’s like human sunshine, and it was a joy to experience the world through her eyes.
Alex came as an even bigger surprise. He’s the kind of gorgeous, cocky male athlete you can’t help feeling attracted to, but he’s also a nerdy, loving older brother with the bravery to own up to his mistakes and fight for his future—basically, the kind of character that'll burrow his way into your heart.
If you’re looking for an original and addictive take on friends-to-lovers and fake-dating tropes, then you have to read this book.
Claire’s pacing and plotting are immaculate, but it was her main characters that sucked me in and made this book impossible to put down. Zoey is confident, witty, driven, and overflowing with personality. She’s like human sunshine, and it was a joy to experience the world through her eyes.
Alex came as an even bigger surprise. He’s the kind of gorgeous, cocky male athlete you can’t help feeling attracted to, but he’s also a nerdy, loving older brother with the bravery to own up to his mistakes and fight for his future—basically, the kind of character that'll burrow his way into your heart.
If you’re looking for an original and addictive take on friends-to-lovers and fake-dating tropes, then you have to read this book.
March 21, 2022
This book was a pleasant surprise!!
I loved the tension between Alex and Zoey, you could tell that they were falling for each other but were too scared to admit it. And hello sexual tension!! I loved how Zoey was so sure of herself when it came to the bedroom, she was proud of the woman that she was, no shame! And Alex, pure hotness!!!
This book had a little bit of everything: friends to lovers, fake relationship, slow burn, insta-attraction. And I loved Zoey's roommate!!
I only wish the author added more once they were together, I felt like there was a lot leading up to it and then once they got together, it's over.
I loved the tension between Alex and Zoey, you could tell that they were falling for each other but were too scared to admit it. And hello sexual tension!! I loved how Zoey was so sure of herself when it came to the bedroom, she was proud of the woman that she was, no shame! And Alex, pure hotness!!!
This book had a little bit of everything: friends to lovers, fake relationship, slow burn, insta-attraction. And I loved Zoey's roommate!!
I only wish the author added more once they were together, I felt like there was a lot leading up to it and then once they got together, it's over.
November 23, 2022
Believable and a story with a lot of heart, this is a fantastic Strangers-to-friends-to-lovers romance between Zoe and Alex. Responsible Alex is proving to his parents that he can take care of his teenage sister (while they're off in Spain). He's also a TA and working on his last year of college, so the list of rules he has to follow makes it pretty clear that girls are off-limits. Zoe is crushed when her friends-with-benefits relationship with Zeus (who names their kid Zeus?) crashes and decides to win him back by having a fake boyfriend. Relationship conflicts a-plenty, and some really believable resolutions too. Standalone with a HFN.
March 19, 2022
I could not put this book down! I finished it in three days, which is saying something because I typically average a book a month… Kayla Claire did such a wonderful job of writing relatable characters, relationships and friendships with such intense chemistry, and a plot that will have you hooked from the get go. My only complaints? I’m mad that Olympia University isn’t real and that I don’t have an Alex in my life. I’m off now to (not so) patiently await the second installment of Gods on Campus and try to force a meet-cute with my very own Alex!
April 1, 2022
Kickoff is the perfect sports romance for fans of authors like Elle Kennedy and Maya Hughes. The chemistry between the two main characters (Zoey and Alex) was off the charts and you were rooting for them individually and as a couple.
I’m not a huge fan of the fake dating trope but man did this book toss however I felt about that trope out the window. It was fun, light-hearted, yet still had that angst that I crave. I recommend it for anyone who loves a good sports romance book. Kayla Claire’s debut novel did not disappoint.
I’m not a huge fan of the fake dating trope but man did this book toss however I felt about that trope out the window. It was fun, light-hearted, yet still had that angst that I crave. I recommend it for anyone who loves a good sports romance book. Kayla Claire’s debut novel did not disappoint.
January 1, 2023
I've given up on young adult romance. I usually don't even bother picking it up anymore because ten times out of ten I end up hating it.
So why did I start reading this?
The cover.
I mean look at those two.
Fuck yeah.
I loved this. I loved Alex. He tried so hard to be good and do the right things but he also wanted his own happiness. Zoey was a spit fire that did her best to be understanding while not being a doormat. I rooted for their HEA. I wanted them together so bad and when it finally happens it's so satisfying.
So just run with the silliness and enjoy the ride.
So why did I start reading this?
The cover.
I mean look at those two.
Fuck yeah.
I loved this. I loved Alex. He tried so hard to be good and do the right things but he also wanted his own happiness. Zoey was a spit fire that did her best to be understanding while not being a doormat. I rooted for their HEA. I wanted them together so bad and when it finally happens it's so satisfying.
So just run with the silliness and enjoy the ride.
March 21, 2022
Kickoff by Kayla Claire is such an enthralling read! The relationship between Zoey and Alex is so captivating, I felt as if I was in the story with them. Fans of Elle Kennedys Off Campus series are sure to be captivated by the lives of Zoey and Alex. I highly recommend this book for anyone on the search for a book where they can truly connect and relate with the different characters, I’m so excited to read more of Gods on Campus in the future!
March 22, 2022
This is Alex and Zoey’s story. Zoey needs a fake boyfriend to make her ex jealous, and Alex is looking for a babysitter for his little sister, whom he is parenting. This is a well written story which is a slow burn, enemies / lovers’ storyline, which is a light-hearted read, with tension, secrets, witty banter, humor, and love, which leads to an entertaining and all-consuming and addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
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