Book Boyfriends and Booze

In Say You Swear by Meagan Brandy, we follow freshman Arianna Johnson, entering college with dreams of her future, always believing it would lead her to the love of her life–her twin brother’s best friend. But when that certainty crumbles, she’s left lost and broken, struggling to find herself again. Through her journey of pain and self-discovery, the theme of whether first loves truly last forever becomes central as she seeks a way forward in a new, uncertain reality.

The novel explores first loves, heartbreak, and the emotional challenges of young adulthood in a YA setting with not-so YA spice. The themes of this novel are not just focused on romance, but on the deep bonds of friendship and personal growth that develop throughout the college experience. Arianna’s journey of healing from heartbreak is intertwined with the support of her friends, making their dynamics a crucial element of the story. Since football serves as a rich backdrop, adding layers of excitement and grounding in the college setting, the blend of emotional depth and light-hearted moments makes it an engaging read, especially during football season.

Noah Riley: The Book Husband Standard

Move over, book boyfriends—Noah Riley is here to redefine the standard as a book husband. Noah is everything you could dream of: kind, patient, supportive, and absolutely perfect in his treatment of Arianna. He isn’t just the kind of man who sweeps you off your feet; he’s the man who builds a foundation with you, brick by brick. What makes Noah stand out is his “guy’s guy” nature combined with his thoughtful, deeply present care for Arianna. He’s proof that you don’t need to be alpha and broody to make a lasting impression—you just need to be real.

The Romance: A Slow-Burn Masterpiece

If you love a romance that takes its time to simmer and build to an emotional crescendo, Say You Swear delivers. The tension between Noah and Arianna is palpable, with a deliciously slow progression from friendship to something much deeper. Expect thick tension, meaningful moments, and a gradual development that makes their eventual connection feel earned and impactful. And yes, when the first kiss happens, it’s worth every single page of build-up. 

The Emotional Impact

Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster. Say You Swear doesn’t just focus on romance—it delves into Arianna’s personal struggles and the ways Noah supports her through them. This book pulls no punches when it comes to emotional depth, and you might find yourself shedding a tear or two (or several). So keep the tissues close by. But the beauty of the story lies in its balance—it takes you through the lows so that the highs feel even more satisfying. If you’re in need of a good cry but still want that happily-ever-after warmth, this is the book to pick up.

Spice Factor

Let’s be clear—while Say You Swear includes spice, it’s not the main focus of the story. The intimate scenes are well-written and heartfelt, but they take a backseat to the emotional connection between Noah and Arianna. If you’re in the mood for high steam and erotica-level spice, this might not scratch that itch. However, if you want meaningful moments that emphasize love and intimacy over explicitness, this book nails it.

Final Thoughts

Say You Swear is the kind of sports romance that balances heartfelt storytelling with lighthearted moments, making it a standout in the genre. Noah Riley is the epitome of a book husband, setting the bar impossibly high for fictional (and real-life) partners alike. With slow-burn tension, emotional highs and lows, and a perfect blend of friendship and romance, this is a must-read for anyone looking for more than just a typical romance. Grab your tissues, clear your schedule, and dive into this Kindle Unlimited gem—you won’t regret it!