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The Hearts We Fumble
by Brooke O'BrienSeries: Braysen U #4
Published by Self-Published on August 18, 2026
SubGenres: New Adult and College Romance, New Adult Romance
Format: ALC
Narrator: Stefanie Kay, Lee Samuels
Length: 9 Hours And 13 Minutes
Source: The Author Agency
Audience: 18+/Adult
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The Hearts We Fumble is the final installment in Brooke O’Brien’s Braysen U series. Once again, I got a book with a great mix of sweet and spicy, packed with some of my favorite tropes. It also helps to listen to the book with narrators perfectly cast for the characters. Lee Samuels and Stefanie Kay brought Zane and Wyatt to life, and they did a fabulous job. I loved listening while following along with the ebook thanks to it being in KU.
Zane and Wyatt’s love story is one I’ll remember, especially since it features a trope I always read: the Brother’s Best Friend. Both characters have secretly pined for each other, but one is scared to make a move because of possible sibling repercussions or self-doubt about worthiness. This is the case with Zane and Wyatt. When they finally connect, there is instant chemistry, and they realize how much they were meant for each other. This is the kind of story I enjoy.
I enjoyed getting to know both characters. Zane is strong and protective, dealing with a father who tries to dictate his life, especially his football career, amongst other things he should have no say in. Wyatt is sassy and will put Zane in his place, especially after what he did to her originally. But she also has a caring and protective side, especially toward Zane, and she supports him once she understands why he didn’t make a move sooner and how his father treats him.
This was a great story of two friends who needed to get it together and realize how perfect they were for each other. I also enjoyed the football scenes, even though some were really intense, and the appearances of previous characters from the series.
Some dramatic twists in this book involve Zane. They were surprising and kept me on the edge of my seat as he discovered the truth about some things. No spoilers here.
Overall, this was an enjoyable audiobook, and I give it four stars. I’m sad the series has ended, but I know Brooke O’Brien has other books I want to read from her backlist and new releases to look forward to.
POV: Dual POV (First Person)
Standalone or Part of Series: An Interconnected Standalone in the Braysen U Series.
Would I recommend this book/series? Yes. If you enjoy reading/listening to angsty, emotional, spicy football romance series, then check out the Braysen U series from Brooke O’Brien.
What to Expect:
🏈Sports/Football Romance
🏈Teammate’s Sister
🏈Grumpy/Sunshine (Heroine is the Grumpy One)
🏈Small College Town
🏈Childhood Crush
About Brooke O'Brien
USA Today Bestselling author Brooke O'Brien writes steamy and swoon-worthy new adult romances. She is best known for her sports and rock star romances.
Brooke believes a love worth having is worth fighting for, and she brings this into her stories where her characters risk it all for love.
When she isn't writing or falling in love with a new book boyfriend, you can find her spending time with her family, cheering on her favorite sports teams, listening to ASMR, or binge-watching the latest true crime documentary. She loves rockin' a comfy hoodie with leggings and believes the best days include a good nap.
Brooke loves connecting with readers and hopes you'll join her on her social pages or reader group to stay in touch.
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