Love has a way of blindsiding us when we least expect it, leaving us vulnerable to both its greatest heights and deepest valleys. In Meagan Brandy’s emotionally charged new adult romance “Say You Swear,” we explore the complexities of first love, unexpected connections, and the courage it takes to let go of what we thought we wanted to embrace what we truly need.
Overview
The first installment in Brandy’s Boys of Avix series introduces us to Arianna Johnson, a college freshman whose life has been defined by her unrequited love for her twin brother’s best friend, Chase Harper. When a moment of passion on the beach changes everything between them, Arianna finds herself adrift in the aftermath of Chase’s rejection. Enter Noah Riley, the charismatic quarterback whose gentle persistence and unwavering support begin to heal her broken heart—until a tragic accident threatens to unravel everything they’ve built together.
Character Development & Dynamics
The Main Players
Arianna Johnson emerges as a relatable protagonist whose growth from lovesick teen to confident young woman forms the emotional core of the story. Her journey is complicated by the close-knit dynamics of her friend group and family relationships, particularly with her overprotective twin brother Mason.
Noah Riley steals scenes as the thoughtful, mature love interest who sees Arianna for who she truly is. His dedication to both football and caring for his ill mother adds layers to his character that elevate him beyond the typical college athlete stereotype.
Chase Harper serves as an effectively complicated antagonist whose inability to choose between friendship and love creates realistic tension throughout the narrative.
Supporting Cast
The secondary characters are well-developed, particularly:
- Cameron (Arianna’s vibrant best friend)
- Mason (The protective twin brother)
- Brady (The loyal friend bringing comic relief)
Writing Style & Narrative Flow
Brandy employs a first-person narrative that alternates between Arianna and Noah’s perspectives, allowing readers intimate access to both characters’ emotional journeys. The prose is contemporary and engaging, peppered with witty dialogue and tender moments that feel authentic to the new adult genre.
Strengths
- Strong emotional resonance
- Natural dialogue and banter
- Well-paced romantic development
- Effective use of dual POV
Areas for Improvement
- Some plot points rely heavily on miscommunication
- Secondary storylines could be more fully developed
- The amnesia trope feels somewhat contrived
Themes & Emotional Impact
The novel explores several compelling themes:
- The difference between idealized and genuine love
- Family loyalty versus personal happiness
- Growth through adversity
- The courage to choose oneself
Sports Romance Elements
The football backdrop adds authenticity to the college setting without overwhelming the central romance. Noah’s position as quarterback and the team dynamics create natural tension and opportunities for character interaction.
Series Potential
“Say You Swear” sets up an intriguing world at Avix University, with plenty of compelling secondary characters whose stories beg to be told in future installations. The upcoming sequel “Promise Me Not” promises to expand this universe further.
Comparative Analysis
Fans of similar college sports romances like Elle Kennedy’s “Off Campus” series or Sarina Bowen’s “The Ivy Years” will find familiar comfort in Brandy’s work, though her voice remains distinctly her own.
Critical Assessment
What Works
- The chemistry between Noah and Arianna feels earned and authentic
- Strong sense of found family among the friend group
- Emotional depth in exploring complex relationships
- Well-balanced blend of romance and drama
Room for Growth
- The accident and amnesia plot device feels somewhat forced
- Some emotional reactions could be better justified
- Pacing in the final quarter becomes slightly rushed
Final Verdict
Despite some conventional plot devices, “Say You Swear” delivers a compelling romance that will resonate with readers who appreciate:
- Complex emotional journeys
- Strong friend group dynamics
- Sports romance elements
- Second-chance love stories
Reader Advisory
Content warnings include:
- Medical trauma
- Pregnancy loss
- Family illness
- Strong language
- Sexual content
The Bottom Line
“Say You Swear” marks a strong entry in the college sports romance genre, offering readers an emotional journey that balances heartache with hope. While some plot elements feel familiar, Brandy’s strong character work and emotional authenticity make this a worthwhile read for fans of new adult romance.
This first installment in the Boys of Avix series successfully sets the stage for more stories to come, leaving readers eager to return to this world and these characters in future books. Despite its few shortcomings, the novel delivers on its promise of an engaging, emotional romance that will leave readers invested in these characters’ journeys.