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Newhouse University #3
Foul Territory
SYDNEY:
I fell in love with Koa Mahina when I was twelve years old. Years later he broke my heart with one word, and I’ve been trying to get over him ever since.
It hasn’t been easy considering he’s my brother’s best friend and is always hanging around.
When I think I’m finally ready to move on with a guy I met online, Koa says he wants a second chance.
He’s saying all the right things but I’m not sure if it’s enough.
Do I risk my heart a second time or give it a shot with someone new?
KOA:
My heart has always belonged to Sydney Pierce. I messed up four years ago. Reckless words cost me the one person I’ve always wanted. She thinks I chose my friendship with her brother over her but that isn’t true.
She may not know it, but I've done everything I can to keep her close. When she wouldn’t talk to me, I found another way.
It has always been her and I’m going to prove it.
I’m not leaving Newhouse University without Sydney Pierce knowing I’m hers and I always have been.
Foul Territory is book three of an interconnected standalone series. The Newhouse University series is best read in order but can also be read on its own.
This book contains explicit language and sexual scenes. It is recommended for an adult audience.
I fell in love with Koa Mahina when I was twelve years old. Years later he broke my heart with one word, and I’ve been trying to get over him ever since.
It hasn’t been easy considering he’s my brother’s best friend and is always hanging around.
When I think I’m finally ready to move on with a guy I met online, Koa says he wants a second chance.
He’s saying all the right things but I’m not sure if it’s enough.
Do I risk my heart a second time or give it a shot with someone new?
KOA:
My heart has always belonged to Sydney Pierce. I messed up four years ago. Reckless words cost me the one person I’ve always wanted. She thinks I chose my friendship with her brother over her but that isn’t true.
She may not know it, but I've done everything I can to keep her close. When she wouldn’t talk to me, I found another way.
It has always been her and I’m going to prove it.
I’m not leaving Newhouse University without Sydney Pierce knowing I’m hers and I always have been.
Foul Territory is book three of an interconnected standalone series. The Newhouse University series is best read in order but can also be read on its own.
This book contains explicit language and sexual scenes. It is recommended for an adult audience.
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2025
62 people are currently reading
824 people want to read
About the author
Ginger Walls
7 books311 followersI grew up with stories always floating in my head. It took me forty years to finally be brave enough to share them.
I write young adult, college, and adult contemporary romances.
All my books end with a happy ever after, but the road to get there isn't always easy.
Thank you for reading and reviewing my books! It means so much to me.
+++++++++++++++++++
You can find me...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ginger-...
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Website: http://gingeralana.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/GingerAlanaA...
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/38661...
Newsletter: Coming soon.
I write young adult, college, and adult contemporary romances.
All my books end with a happy ever after, but the road to get there isn't always easy.
Thank you for reading and reviewing my books! It means so much to me.
+++++++++++++++++++
You can find me...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ginger-...
Instagram: http://instagram.com/gingerwallsauthor
Website: http://gingeralana.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/GingerAlanaA...
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/38661...
Newsletter: Coming soon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
February 16, 2025
2⭐️/2🌶️
Thank you Luna literary for this arc!
I was really excited for this going in seeing all the good reviews but sadly this fell flat for me :( and I tried really hard to get into it, everyone else seems to love it so maybe it’s just me…
Very minor spoilers here but I dunno. I just didn’t like the characters or the writing either. It was meant to be childhood friends/brothers beat friend/second chance/it’s always been you/secret identity vibe and that certainly hit. But the plot itself was so off mark.
1, I thought this was a sports romance but baseball isn’t really even mentioned until 70% in lol
2, the sex/spice is so short it feels almost like the author wanted to add it to add it and not because it fit. It was an attempt at open door, not closed, so I was confused why it was so short lol. Like each instance was maybe 3 sentences and I couldn’t tell if time was flying or if our mc’s just get off at the press of a button. The dialogue during those scenes also felt… I’m not sure. Off? Childish? Hard to put into words but it just felt not great.
3, the 3rd act conflict made me so angry haha. I can’t say much else without spoilers but the whole secret identity reveal felt like it could have happened in a million other ways than what we got.
4, the relationship between Syd and her brother and Koa also just kinda gave me the ick. Like wym you didn’t actually care if they dated but you all followed a rule you made at 13 into your 20’s lol.
Most reviews seems to people loving this book so again maybe it’s me 🤷🏽♀️ this was my first book from this author but since a handful of issues I saw here were more writing style opposed to plot I don’t think I’ll check out other books of hers. If you do give this book a chance I do hope you enjoy it!!
Thank you Luna literary for this arc!
I was really excited for this going in seeing all the good reviews but sadly this fell flat for me :( and I tried really hard to get into it, everyone else seems to love it so maybe it’s just me…
Very minor spoilers here but I dunno. I just didn’t like the characters or the writing either. It was meant to be childhood friends/brothers beat friend/second chance/it’s always been you/secret identity vibe and that certainly hit. But the plot itself was so off mark.
1, I thought this was a sports romance but baseball isn’t really even mentioned until 70% in lol
2, the sex/spice is so short it feels almost like the author wanted to add it to add it and not because it fit. It was an attempt at open door, not closed, so I was confused why it was so short lol. Like each instance was maybe 3 sentences and I couldn’t tell if time was flying or if our mc’s just get off at the press of a button. The dialogue during those scenes also felt… I’m not sure. Off? Childish? Hard to put into words but it just felt not great.
3, the 3rd act conflict made me so angry haha. I can’t say much else without spoilers but the whole secret identity reveal felt like it could have happened in a million other ways than what we got.
4, the relationship between Syd and her brother and Koa also just kinda gave me the ick. Like wym you didn’t actually care if they dated but you all followed a rule you made at 13 into your 20’s lol.
Most reviews seems to people loving this book so again maybe it’s me 🤷🏽♀️ this was my first book from this author but since a handful of issues I saw here were more writing style opposed to plot I don’t think I’ll check out other books of hers. If you do give this book a chance I do hope you enjoy it!!
February 21, 2025
4/5 stars 2.5/5 spice
Koa really is every girls book boyfriend dream. Once he met Syd and fell in love with her, she became his sole focus. Even though he messed up, he never once gave up on her or them. He continued to observe her from afar and protect her as much as he could. He tried be in her life and talk to her but it was never the way it used to be so he settled for speaking with her on a book forum anonymously just to feel close to her again. Don’t even get me started on how every tattoo he had was for her, how he never slept with anyone else, how he became a book lover because of her, how he planned the perfect first date, and those sexy reading glasses he wore.
I was firmly on Syd’s side after everything fell apart between her and Koa. He broke her heart and didn’t choose her no matter what way you look at it. I don’t blame her for wanting to move on, and not trusting the vibes Koa sent her way. Syd’s a determined woman who just wants to protect her heart from another heart break.
It was cute to see them finally rekindle and for Koa to own up to his mistakes and to be the man that Syd deserves. He was romantic not only with words but actions as well. I also can’t forget to mention his dirty talk because whew, he definitely had a mouth on him.
This is the perfect read if you’re a fan of second chance and brother’s best friend romances.
Koa really is every girls book boyfriend dream. Once he met Syd and fell in love with her, she became his sole focus. Even though he messed up, he never once gave up on her or them. He continued to observe her from afar and protect her as much as he could. He tried be in her life and talk to her but it was never the way it used to be so he settled for speaking with her on a book forum anonymously just to feel close to her again. Don’t even get me started on how every tattoo he had was for her, how he never slept with anyone else, how he became a book lover because of her, how he planned the perfect first date, and those sexy reading glasses he wore.
I was firmly on Syd’s side after everything fell apart between her and Koa. He broke her heart and didn’t choose her no matter what way you look at it. I don’t blame her for wanting to move on, and not trusting the vibes Koa sent her way. Syd’s a determined woman who just wants to protect her heart from another heart break.
It was cute to see them finally rekindle and for Koa to own up to his mistakes and to be the man that Syd deserves. He was romantic not only with words but actions as well. I also can’t forget to mention his dirty talk because whew, he definitely had a mouth on him.
This is the perfect read if you’re a fan of second chance and brother’s best friend romances.
February 13, 2025
⚾️💜
5⭐️ for our babies Sydney and Koa 😍
“There's something taboo about the idea.
I'm off limits, out of bounds. He shouldn't be alone with me like this. Yet we keep toeing the line between what's expected of us and this foul territory where there are no limitations.”
"When I was twelve I moved to Alabama and I met this girl. She loved stories as much as I loved having her talk to me. I figured out early on if I stayed quiet long enough, she would fill the silence with her stories."
Ginger does it again, I’ve had the pleasure of ARC reading all three books in this series. Each book hits different in the best way, Ginger has a way of writing that makes you feel all the emotions. You go from laughing, to kicking your feet, to crying, oh and the spice 🤭🫠 I loved Sydney and Koa, the tension starting in Easy Out, we finally watch their story unfold 😍
Sydney and Koa have known each other since they were kids, the night of their high school graduation changing everything. Sydney has always been in love with Koa, she’s left heartbroken though and Koa is full of regret. Fast forward to their senior year of college, Sydney has been trying to get over Koa for years. She keeps as much distance as she can, but with Koa being her brothers best friend, it’s a little difficult. Sydney starts talking to someone on an online book forum, she starts to develop true feelings for him. Koa wants to make things up to Sydney, is it too late?
Sydney and Koa had amazing chemistry, these two couldn’t deny their feelings for each other. Koa goes above and beyond to prove himself to Sydney, to right his wrongs. These two were everything!! I also loved seeing all our other favorite characters, Lauren and Hart, Wyatt and Wren and of course our man Nash (I can’t wait for his book 😍)
Thank you so much to Ginger for the ARC, I’m so thankful I saw your Easy Out sign ups on a Facebook page. It’s been a pleasure to be part of your team ever since, I love you and I’m so proud of you. I can’t wait to see where we go next on this journey in Newhouse 💜
5⭐️ for our babies Sydney and Koa 😍
“There's something taboo about the idea.
I'm off limits, out of bounds. He shouldn't be alone with me like this. Yet we keep toeing the line between what's expected of us and this foul territory where there are no limitations.”
"When I was twelve I moved to Alabama and I met this girl. She loved stories as much as I loved having her talk to me. I figured out early on if I stayed quiet long enough, she would fill the silence with her stories."
Ginger does it again, I’ve had the pleasure of ARC reading all three books in this series. Each book hits different in the best way, Ginger has a way of writing that makes you feel all the emotions. You go from laughing, to kicking your feet, to crying, oh and the spice 🤭🫠 I loved Sydney and Koa, the tension starting in Easy Out, we finally watch their story unfold 😍
Sydney and Koa have known each other since they were kids, the night of their high school graduation changing everything. Sydney has always been in love with Koa, she’s left heartbroken though and Koa is full of regret. Fast forward to their senior year of college, Sydney has been trying to get over Koa for years. She keeps as much distance as she can, but with Koa being her brothers best friend, it’s a little difficult. Sydney starts talking to someone on an online book forum, she starts to develop true feelings for him. Koa wants to make things up to Sydney, is it too late?
Sydney and Koa had amazing chemistry, these two couldn’t deny their feelings for each other. Koa goes above and beyond to prove himself to Sydney, to right his wrongs. These two were everything!! I also loved seeing all our other favorite characters, Lauren and Hart, Wyatt and Wren and of course our man Nash (I can’t wait for his book 😍)
Thank you so much to Ginger for the ARC, I’m so thankful I saw your Easy Out sign ups on a Facebook page. It’s been a pleasure to be part of your team ever since, I love you and I’m so proud of you. I can’t wait to see where we go next on this journey in Newhouse 💜
February 16, 2025
DNF at 74%
The miscommunication in this book was overly extreme and unnecessary—it was downright infuriating. The reason for Koa and Sydney’s separation felt weak, especially considering how long she held a grudge. It seemed like they were punishing themselves for no real reason. And the secret identity business was 😡
Why is Nash treated as the ultimate authority on dating rules? Sydney was fully aware of his “hands-off” warning to his friends, so how could she be so upset when he inevitably inserted himself into her life? She knew exactly what he was doing.
On a positive note, some of the things Koa said to Sydney were incredibly sweet and romantic. But with how far into the book we got, the lack of spice was disappointing.
I received an eARC of this book.
The miscommunication in this book was overly extreme and unnecessary—it was downright infuriating. The reason for Koa and Sydney’s separation felt weak, especially considering how long she held a grudge. It seemed like they were punishing themselves for no real reason. And the secret identity business was 😡
Why is Nash treated as the ultimate authority on dating rules? Sydney was fully aware of his “hands-off” warning to his friends, so how could she be so upset when he inevitably inserted himself into her life? She knew exactly what he was doing.
On a positive note, some of the things Koa said to Sydney were incredibly sweet and romantic. But with how far into the book we got, the lack of spice was disappointing.
I received an eARC of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
February 14, 2025Will read just to see if "it's always been you" follows through
February 17, 2025
4.25⭐️ | 3🌶
I actually quite enjoyed this. I didn't think I'd like it as much because the slight miscommunication between Nash, Sydney and Koa was frustrating at times, but it turned out great. I loved the girl group friendship aspect with Sydney, Wren, Lauren and Charlie. I am so curious about Charlie and her story. Ginger is a new author for me and I think it's safe to say I'll be reading more of her work. Thank you to luna literary management for the arc.
I actually quite enjoyed this. I didn't think I'd like it as much because the slight miscommunication between Nash, Sydney and Koa was frustrating at times, but it turned out great. I loved the girl group friendship aspect with Sydney, Wren, Lauren and Charlie. I am so curious about Charlie and her story. Ginger is a new author for me and I think it's safe to say I'll be reading more of her work. Thank you to luna literary management for the arc.
February 19, 2025
I'd been looking forward to Koa and Sydney's story since meeting them in "Easy Out". I do love an angsty couple, and these two were really special. I was fully invested in their story which was full of longing, heartbreak, and a second chance which they were both so desperate for.
This book bought out all the feels. One minute I was grinning and the next, I was super emotional wanting them to be together. I loved Koa's obsession with Syd; walking her to class, watching over her while she worked, and my favourite - the online chats! These two worked SO hard to get back to a place where they could trust each other and that moment was definitely worth the wait!!
I really loved how realistic Ginger's writing and story telling was. Yes there was a miscommunication and heartache, but they were young. You know? It's easy to put yourself in their position and feel the tension, angst and hurting heart alongside them. I also loved seeing my other favourite Newhouse characters (that Graduation scene though... ) and I cannot wait for Nash's book!!
Add to your tbr if you like:
- college baseball romance
- second chance
- brother's best friend
- childhood friends
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and Ginger Walls for an advanced copy of this book!!
This book bought out all the feels. One minute I was grinning and the next, I was super emotional wanting them to be together. I loved Koa's obsession with Syd; walking her to class, watching over her while she worked, and my favourite - the online chats! These two worked SO hard to get back to a place where they could trust each other and that moment was definitely worth the wait!!
I really loved how realistic Ginger's writing and story telling was. Yes there was a miscommunication and heartache, but they were young. You know? It's easy to put yourself in their position and feel the tension, angst and hurting heart alongside them. I also loved seeing my other favourite Newhouse characters (that Graduation scene though... ) and I cannot wait for Nash's book!!
Add to your tbr if you like:
- college baseball romance
- second chance
- brother's best friend
- childhood friends
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and Ginger Walls for an advanced copy of this book!!
February 20, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
I absolutely loved this book once I started I couldn’t put it down 🫶🏽 This story follows Sydney Pierce and Koa Mahina, who share a deep history complicated by past misunderstandings and the fact that Koa is Sydney's brother's best friend. Their journey explores themes of second chances, unspoken feelings, and the challenges of rekindling a once-lost love.
Koa and Sydney are just so cute together I loved the little banter they had. I loved how Koa was so protective of Sydney and did everything to make her happy. I wish I can keep reading more of them. The one thing I loved most was Koa buying the books Sydney had and would read them so they can talk about them 🥹💞
Tropes:
💜Childhood friends
⚾️Friends to enemies to lovers
💜Second Chance
⚾️College sport romance
💜Brother Best Friend
⚾️Always been you
💜Online Chat Forum
⚾️Mistaken Identity
💜MMC Obsessed
I absolutely loved this book once I started I couldn’t put it down 🫶🏽 This story follows Sydney Pierce and Koa Mahina, who share a deep history complicated by past misunderstandings and the fact that Koa is Sydney's brother's best friend. Their journey explores themes of second chances, unspoken feelings, and the challenges of rekindling a once-lost love.
Koa and Sydney are just so cute together I loved the little banter they had. I loved how Koa was so protective of Sydney and did everything to make her happy. I wish I can keep reading more of them. The one thing I loved most was Koa buying the books Sydney had and would read them so they can talk about them 🥹💞
Tropes:
💜Childhood friends
⚾️Friends to enemies to lovers
💜Second Chance
⚾️College sport romance
💜Brother Best Friend
⚾️Always been you
💜Online Chat Forum
⚾️Mistaken Identity
💜MMC Obsessed
February 8, 2025
4.5⭐️
Give me communicating with a “stranger” in a chat room but it turns out it’s the guy you’ve had a crush on all along and I. AM. THERE.
Koa and Sydney’s story was one for the books, quite literally. Sure, they could have communicated a little earlier to save them some grief, but they both needed to grow as individuals and that’s exactly what they did. Sydney was fiercely independent and loved her books. And Koa was always going to show an interest in Sydney’s hobbies and safety. Their chemistry was always there, but several decisions led to a more superficial friendship on the outside while they continued to pine for each other on the inside.
There was definitely a slow burn as tensions rose and Koa showed his growth. He took responsibility for his past mistakes and proved to be a top tier book boyfriend!! I loved how emotional and raw their story was while also being full of romance and humor!
Thank you so much to Ginger Walls for the ARC! Can’t wait to see what’s next at Newhouse University!
Give me communicating with a “stranger” in a chat room but it turns out it’s the guy you’ve had a crush on all along and I. AM. THERE.
Koa and Sydney’s story was one for the books, quite literally. Sure, they could have communicated a little earlier to save them some grief, but they both needed to grow as individuals and that’s exactly what they did. Sydney was fiercely independent and loved her books. And Koa was always going to show an interest in Sydney’s hobbies and safety. Their chemistry was always there, but several decisions led to a more superficial friendship on the outside while they continued to pine for each other on the inside.
There was definitely a slow burn as tensions rose and Koa showed his growth. He took responsibility for his past mistakes and proved to be a top tier book boyfriend!! I loved how emotional and raw their story was while also being full of romance and humor!
Thank you so much to Ginger Walls for the ARC! Can’t wait to see what’s next at Newhouse University!
February 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
"She's my girl, my baby, my little troublemaker."
Koa and Sydney have my whole entire heart and then some 😭
These two had my heart clenching so many times throughout their book but it hurt so good I swear. I'm not normally one that love second chance romances that heavily but these two??? THE YEARNINGGGGG??????
This felt like a perfect "goodbye for now" to our Newhouse University main 6, but man oh man I'm excited for Nash's book
Thank you again Ginger for being you & blessing me with the privilege of being on your street team 🫶🏼
(I was gifted this e-arc & all thoughts/opinions are my own!)
🌶️
"She's my girl, my baby, my little troublemaker."
Koa and Sydney have my whole entire heart and then some 😭
These two had my heart clenching so many times throughout their book but it hurt so good I swear. I'm not normally one that love second chance romances that heavily but these two??? THE YEARNINGGGGG??????
This felt like a perfect "goodbye for now" to our Newhouse University main 6, but man oh man I'm excited for Nash's book
Thank you again Ginger for being you & blessing me with the privilege of being on your street team 🫶🏼
(I was gifted this e-arc & all thoughts/opinions are my own!)
February 26, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book, and I am so glad that I was able to be a part of the ARC team. I loved reading Sydney and Koa's story. I loved the romance, the back story, the complicated best friend to lovers dynamic. Koa had my heart! I wish all guys could be as romantic as him as well as spicy!!!!
I also loved that they both got to follow their individual dreams as well as be a couple.
I also loved that they both got to follow their individual dreams as well as be a couple.
January 24, 2025
Ginger Walls does it again! "Foul Territory" is another fantastic addition to the Newhouse series. I was completely captivated by Koa and Sydney's story. Koa's character depth really tugged at my heartstrings, and it was fascinating to watch Sydney piece things together—though I couldn’t help but think she should have figured out the chat room sooner. Their journey as fated mates was both touching and exhilarating, and I'm so glad Sydney didn’t stay mad for long.
This book has left me eagerly anticipating Nash’s story, and I really hope Charlie gets her own story too. Maybe theirs will be together? Ginger Walls truly knows how to keep her readers hooked, and I can’t get enough of her writing.
Another home run in the Newhouse series. Highly recommended!
This book has left me eagerly anticipating Nash’s story, and I really hope Charlie gets her own story too. Maybe theirs will be together? Ginger Walls truly knows how to keep her readers hooked, and I can’t get enough of her writing.
Another home run in the Newhouse series. Highly recommended!
February 11, 2025
Slow burn. Snarky. Laughter. Tears.
Those are definitely there throughout the entire book. I absolutely love how Sydney can be snarky but also so protective of her heart. Her daily mantra on trying to get over Koa but knowing she never can because she was so in love with him. Koa. Oh Koa. Being the average Joe and the meaning how he got the name was so sweet. He definitely has trouble saying words and what he means but does so well proving his love and attention to Sydney. His protective side showing up when she needed him had me swooning the whole rest of the book. They had so much growing up to do and learning to communicate. I just absolutely loved this book. Definitely must read! Perfect first book as a first ARC book reviewer!
Those are definitely there throughout the entire book. I absolutely love how Sydney can be snarky but also so protective of her heart. Her daily mantra on trying to get over Koa but knowing she never can because she was so in love with him. Koa. Oh Koa. Being the average Joe and the meaning how he got the name was so sweet. He definitely has trouble saying words and what he means but does so well proving his love and attention to Sydney. His protective side showing up when she needed him had me swooning the whole rest of the book. They had so much growing up to do and learning to communicate. I just absolutely loved this book. Definitely must read! Perfect first book as a first ARC book reviewer!
January 20, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you so much Ginger for this ARC!
Koa and Sydney are everything! Koa and Sydney were best friends since childhood. When he developed a friendship with her brother, she felt like the third wheel. She always crushed on him, but didn’t think he reciprocated her feelings.
Their senior year of high school, they gave into their feelings, but Koa called it a mistake. It broke Sydney’s heart, but she tried to move on.
Now, they’re seniors in college and trying to make their dreams come true. Sydney loves reading far romance and chatting with her chatroom pal averagejoe. She’s determined to work in cosmetic development. Koa plays baseball with the dream to be in the pros. He’s just obsessed with Sydney and can’t let her go. He joins her chatroom, reads her books in secret, and watches out for her from afar.
When he sees her with one of his teammates, he knows he has to win her back. It’s so heartbreaking and romantic to see these two communicate their feelings. But she still has feelings for her online friend, can they make it work?!
Their HEA is well deserved!
Read this if you like
Baseball romance
Second chance
Brothers best friend
Strong female MC
Thank you so much Ginger for this ARC!
Koa and Sydney are everything! Koa and Sydney were best friends since childhood. When he developed a friendship with her brother, she felt like the third wheel. She always crushed on him, but didn’t think he reciprocated her feelings.
Their senior year of high school, they gave into their feelings, but Koa called it a mistake. It broke Sydney’s heart, but she tried to move on.
Now, they’re seniors in college and trying to make their dreams come true. Sydney loves reading far romance and chatting with her chatroom pal averagejoe. She’s determined to work in cosmetic development. Koa plays baseball with the dream to be in the pros. He’s just obsessed with Sydney and can’t let her go. He joins her chatroom, reads her books in secret, and watches out for her from afar.
When he sees her with one of his teammates, he knows he has to win her back. It’s so heartbreaking and romantic to see these two communicate their feelings. But she still has feelings for her online friend, can they make it work?!
Their HEA is well deserved!
Read this if you like
Baseball romance
Second chance
Brothers best friend
Strong female MC
February 9, 2025
Every girl deserves someone who loves them the way Koa loves Sydney!
Just because they couldn’t be together doesn’t mean that Koa ever stopped loving Sydney. Or watching out for her, or reading all of her favorite books *with* her. I loved the added element of texting through the book community. It was cute to watch her fall in love with him again without knowing it was him. And who wouldn’t with the attention he gave to caring about the things she was interested in. Reading all the books she read AND annotating them? ❤️
I’m not really a fan of the best friend’s brother trope, but I could appreciate that this wasn’t *exactly* the same as all of the “stay away from my sister” books.
I love how Koa believes in her and her dreams, but he’s always right there if she needs him and isn’t overly possessive, even if he wants to be.
I, like Sydney, have a thing for a guy in glasses who likes to read. I loved seeing them get there happily ever after.
This was my first introduction to the Newhouse University books, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m excited to go back and read about the other couples!
Thank you to Ginger Walls for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Just because they couldn’t be together doesn’t mean that Koa ever stopped loving Sydney. Or watching out for her, or reading all of her favorite books *with* her. I loved the added element of texting through the book community. It was cute to watch her fall in love with him again without knowing it was him. And who wouldn’t with the attention he gave to caring about the things she was interested in. Reading all the books she read AND annotating them? ❤️
I’m not really a fan of the best friend’s brother trope, but I could appreciate that this wasn’t *exactly* the same as all of the “stay away from my sister” books.
I love how Koa believes in her and her dreams, but he’s always right there if she needs him and isn’t overly possessive, even if he wants to be.
I, like Sydney, have a thing for a guy in glasses who likes to read. I loved seeing them get there happily ever after.
This was my first introduction to the Newhouse University books, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’m excited to go back and read about the other couples!
Thank you to Ginger Walls for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
February 15, 2025
3.5/5 rounded to 4 for GR.
This was a cute romance with warm characters that I really liked and a solid plot line. I absolutely loved the secret identity/online aspect, it kept me so engaged and it was a fun way for them to connect even if one of the two didn’t know the full truth.
Koa’s utter obsession with Sydney was swoony and worked in a fun dynamic with Sydney’s (understandable!) denial of/struggle with her feelings for Koa.
At the same time, nothing really gripped me in particular about the book - it was a little generic for me which isn’t bad but just didn’t hit a true 4 star level for me. I just didn’t feel a connection to the characters or story much myself.
I wouldn’t discourage anyone from reading it and it was a good romance with nice warm fuzzies and open-door heat. No issues with the writing or grammar or anything like that as well. The characters were all very likeable and them having feelings for each other from being kids/teens was really sweet. It’d be a great vacation or chill day read where you just want something nice and smooth.
Overall a solid read!
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
This was a cute romance with warm characters that I really liked and a solid plot line. I absolutely loved the secret identity/online aspect, it kept me so engaged and it was a fun way for them to connect even if one of the two didn’t know the full truth.
Koa’s utter obsession with Sydney was swoony and worked in a fun dynamic with Sydney’s (understandable!) denial of/struggle with her feelings for Koa.
At the same time, nothing really gripped me in particular about the book - it was a little generic for me which isn’t bad but just didn’t hit a true 4 star level for me. I just didn’t feel a connection to the characters or story much myself.
I wouldn’t discourage anyone from reading it and it was a good romance with nice warm fuzzies and open-door heat. No issues with the writing or grammar or anything like that as well. The characters were all very likeable and them having feelings for each other from being kids/teens was really sweet. It’d be a great vacation or chill day read where you just want something nice and smooth.
Overall a solid read!
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
February 20, 2025
4.5 ⭐️: Sydney and Koa
I love the slow burn progression!! It was so needed because of the second chance romance and I was here for it! Sydney is such a strong and sassy female main character and she has so much hesitation and apprehension about their love because of their past. He broke her heart when she with only a couple of words when they were in high school. The soft nature of Koa and his protective nature never wavered but we get to learn more than what he is presenting at face value and the true reason for why he’s always there for Sydney!!
Their relationship progression and also their obstacles even when they get together is just so enduring and so real. I also love getting to see more from Lauren and Hart as well as Wyatt and Wren!!
I love the slow burn progression!! It was so needed because of the second chance romance and I was here for it! Sydney is such a strong and sassy female main character and she has so much hesitation and apprehension about their love because of their past. He broke her heart when she with only a couple of words when they were in high school. The soft nature of Koa and his protective nature never wavered but we get to learn more than what he is presenting at face value and the true reason for why he’s always there for Sydney!!
Their relationship progression and also their obstacles even when they get together is just so enduring and so real. I also love getting to see more from Lauren and Hart as well as Wyatt and Wren!!
January 22, 2025
Koa and Sydney were everything! Childhood friends who gave in to their feelings only for it to go up in flames after Koa used one word to describe what happened. Now in their senior year of college they are trying to make up and figure out everything. If you’re a fan of slow burns, friends to lovers this is for you!!
February 9, 2025
4.5⭐️ thank you to ginger walls and her team for the arc
I loved koa and Sidney’s story I loved their chemistry and their character development throughout the story! I loved this series of books and I can’t wait to read about Nash in the next book ☺️
I loved koa and Sidney’s story I loved their chemistry and their character development throughout the story! I loved this series of books and I can’t wait to read about Nash in the next book ☺️
February 15, 2025
I was provided an ARC of this and mannnnn was this good! Koa made me swoon over and over again throughout this story. This is the embodiment of “it’s always been you” for contemporary romance. I want more of their story 🥹💓
February 21, 2025
Koa and Sydney
The way I was screaming at Sydney to just give Koa another chance was unreal. It was a cute second chance romance (once she finally gave in). I loved that they both shared a love for books and would read books together 🥰
The way I was screaming at Sydney to just give Koa another chance was unreal. It was a cute second chance romance (once she finally gave in). I loved that they both shared a love for books and would read books together 🥰
May 14, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Overall it was a cute brothers best friend, childhood friends, “always been you” story but the miscommunication drove me nuts. Koa was super sweet but I never felt attached to their relationship or characters
Overall it was a cute brothers best friend, childhood friends, “always been you” story but the miscommunication drove me nuts. Koa was super sweet but I never felt attached to their relationship or characters
February 8, 2025
I have fallen in love with this series. Every book is better than the last. I love the characters and how their stories evolve. This one has more angst than the first two and I am here for it. I was rooting for them since first meeting them in Easy Out. They deserve a second chance and Koa will do what he needs to do to win Sydney back. I felt all the pain and heartbreak these two were going through. You know when you’re holding your breath waiting to see what happens it’s a winner. Oh and Koa….sheewwwww. That boy’s MOUTH!!!!!!! 🤤🥴🫠 I am telling my book besties they need to read this book. I definitely recommend it to you! I am so obsessed with Gingers books and cannot wait to see where she takes us next!! 5⭐️2🌶️
February 11, 2025
Ginger HELLO?! I adore SydKoa so damn much. Since day one meeting them in Easy Out they had this tension and to see it all unfold in their very own book was *chefs kiss*. Koa Mahina the obsessive, pining, down bad man that you areee. Sydney Pierce, you brilliant, beautiful, bookish badass, I love you so bad!!!
February 23, 2025
ARC review—
*I read this book without reading the first two in the series (Newhouse University) so I had no back story of Koa and Sydney or the rest of their crew.*
Koa and Sydney’s tension was so good!! The mutual pining that was seemingly one sided but really never was made it even better. And those FORUM CHAPTERS 😍😍 I was kicking my feet giggling!
Once Koa started being open to Syd about how he feels about her 🫦🫠
And then his chat with Nash… I felt like I said “About fucking time” In unison with Nash. 😂
* Brothers best friend
* College romance
* Friends to “enemies” to lovers
* Man obsessed
* Second chance
* Online forum chapters
* Secret tattoo
* He buys her books and reads to her 🫠
*I read this book without reading the first two in the series (Newhouse University) so I had no back story of Koa and Sydney or the rest of their crew.*
Koa and Sydney’s tension was so good!! The mutual pining that was seemingly one sided but really never was made it even better. And those FORUM CHAPTERS 😍😍 I was kicking my feet giggling!
Once Koa started being open to Syd about how he feels about her 🫦🫠
And then his chat with Nash… I felt like I said “About fucking time” In unison with Nash. 😂
* Brothers best friend
* College romance
* Friends to “enemies” to lovers
* Man obsessed
* Second chance
* Online forum chapters
* Secret tattoo
* He buys her books and reads to her 🫠
March 20, 2025
Koa, oh Koa…does he ever have it bad for his childhood friend’s sister, Sydney. Now in college and charged with “keeping an eye” on her, he works so hard and is so sweet: to get Sydney to realize who he really is, how good he is, and how he can love her. The connection between the main characters was undeniable, (I adored the addition of the chat forum in this book!) This was the highlight of an already really great romance-the author was able to capture the friends-to-lovers, second chance so well! She also writes some of my favorite male characters…Although Koa is very close behind with his golden retriever personality, Wyatt still might be my favorite main male character from the Newhouse University series…I was so happy to see that he had his comedic moments in this book too (along with the other friends from their group). A great conclusion to the original Newhouse group. This was a highly anticipated book for me in 2025 and it did not disappoint!
Thanks to the author for an advanced copy-thoughts are my own, honest and voluntary. 4.5 stars
Thanks to the author for an advanced copy-thoughts are my own, honest and voluntary. 4.5 stars
April 1, 2025
✨ARC READ✨
I had the lovely opportunity to arc read this book at the beginning of march and I loved it! I was lucky enough to arc read the second book in this series as well and I love Ginger walls writing style! This series is one of my favorites and I loved getting to read about Sydney and Koa especially after being introduced to them in the first 2 books!
Thank you Ginger Walls for the opportunity to ARC Read this book
I had the lovely opportunity to arc read this book at the beginning of march and I loved it! I was lucky enough to arc read the second book in this series as well and I love Ginger walls writing style! This series is one of my favorites and I loved getting to read about Sydney and Koa especially after being introduced to them in the first 2 books!
Thank you Ginger Walls for the opportunity to ARC Read this book
February 16, 2025
I swear, every time I step back into Newhouse University, it feels like coming home—and Foul Territory was no exception! Ginger absolutely delivered with this one. From page one, I was completely invested in Sydney and Koa’s story—full of longing, heartbreak, and a second chance years in the making.
Sydney has spent years trying (and failing) to move on from Koa, her brother’s best friend and the boy who broke her heart. But what she doesn’t know? Koa never stopped loving her. And when he finally decides to fight for her, he goes all in. Their chemistry crackles on every page. Their first date? Literal butterflies. The way Koa never stopped loving her? My heart could barely handle it!
What makes this book shine is how deeply you feel every moment. The history, the tension, the swoon—it all builds into a romance that feels both emotional and inevitable. Plus, being back at Newhouse University with all my favorite characters was such a treat! The graduation scene? I was full-on sobbing. 😭😭
Ginger, thank you thank you for letting me love on you, Sydney, and Koa! 💜
Sydney has spent years trying (and failing) to move on from Koa, her brother’s best friend and the boy who broke her heart. But what she doesn’t know? Koa never stopped loving her. And when he finally decides to fight for her, he goes all in. Their chemistry crackles on every page. Their first date? Literal butterflies. The way Koa never stopped loving her? My heart could barely handle it!
What makes this book shine is how deeply you feel every moment. The history, the tension, the swoon—it all builds into a romance that feels both emotional and inevitable. Plus, being back at Newhouse University with all my favorite characters was such a treat! The graduation scene? I was full-on sobbing. 😭😭
Ginger, thank you thank you for letting me love on you, Sydney, and Koa! 💜
February 18, 2025
I absolutely adore this book and Koa and Sydney’s story. Their journey from childhood friends to lovers if only for one night was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. But when Koa said the one thing Sydney never wanted to hear, everything changed.
With Koa still best friends with her brother, avoiding him was never an option. Determined to be part of her life, he kept finding ways to be around, but with graduation approaching, he knew he couldn't leave without telling her how he truly felt. Sydney has always loved him too, but the pain he caused wasn’t so easily forgotten. She wasn’t about to give him a second chance without a fight.
Their story is filled with history, heartache, and hope as they navigate what their past means for their future. A beautifully touching tale of second chances, this book will leave you with all the warm and fuzzy feelings! It's definitely a must read.
Thank you, Ginger Walls for the ARC.
With Koa still best friends with her brother, avoiding him was never an option. Determined to be part of her life, he kept finding ways to be around, but with graduation approaching, he knew he couldn't leave without telling her how he truly felt. Sydney has always loved him too, but the pain he caused wasn’t so easily forgotten. She wasn’t about to give him a second chance without a fight.
Their story is filled with history, heartache, and hope as they navigate what their past means for their future. A beautifully touching tale of second chances, this book will leave you with all the warm and fuzzy feelings! It's definitely a must read.
Thank you, Ginger Walls for the ARC.
April 15, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Foul Territory completely blew me away. I went in with decent expectations, but this book? I gave me everything. The romance? Chef's kiss. The chemistry was off the charts, and I couldnt get enough of it. The humor? Had me literally kicking my feet and giggling like a fool. And let's talk about Koa for a second because yes, I've found yet another book boyfriend. He's definitely up there with my favorites now.
The story moves at just the right pace, keeping me hooked without ever feeling rushed. But it's the characters that really got me they're the kind that stick with you long after you've finished reading. Honestly, this book had my heart from start to finish. If you're into romance with a side of laugh-out-loud moments and swoon-worthy characters, Foul Territory is a must-read.
Foul Territory completely blew me away. I went in with decent expectations, but this book? I gave me everything. The romance? Chef's kiss. The chemistry was off the charts, and I couldnt get enough of it. The humor? Had me literally kicking my feet and giggling like a fool. And let's talk about Koa for a second because yes, I've found yet another book boyfriend. He's definitely up there with my favorites now.
The story moves at just the right pace, keeping me hooked without ever feeling rushed. But it's the characters that really got me they're the kind that stick with you long after you've finished reading. Honestly, this book had my heart from start to finish. If you're into romance with a side of laugh-out-loud moments and swoon-worthy characters, Foul Territory is a must-read.
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