What do you think?
Rate this book
When You Returned
Is their love strong enough to heal the wounds of the past?
Once a renowned skater, Jaclyn is now a single mother, working at the beloved skating rink in a small town in Colorado that has been in her family for generations. When the rink is at risk of being lost, she looks for help from professionals.
The last person she expects to help them get back on their feet is Lavern, an old flame from high school.
After running from grief over the loss of his brother eight years ago, Lavern is back in town on assignment from a company that helps struggling businesses. Assigned to help the rink recover, he now must face the girl he once loved and left behind.
Together, Lavern and Jaclyn are the only hope to save her family's rink. But confronting the pain of the past might be more than they can imagine.
Once a renowned skater, Jaclyn is now a single mother, working at the beloved skating rink in a small town in Colorado that has been in her family for generations. When the rink is at risk of being lost, she looks for help from professionals.
The last person she expects to help them get back on their feet is Lavern, an old flame from high school.
After running from grief over the loss of his brother eight years ago, Lavern is back in town on assignment from a company that helps struggling businesses. Assigned to help the rink recover, he now must face the girl he once loved and left behind.
Together, Lavern and Jaclyn are the only hope to save her family's rink. But confronting the pain of the past might be more than they can imagine.
- GenresRomance
253 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2023
2 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Havelah McLat
5 books121 followersHavelah McLat grew up on a small farm in rural Ohio with her family. As a kid, she spent hours drawing and then crafting short stories to go along with her illustrations. As she got older, her passion grew to write stories about the world, faith, and topics that matter the most to her. She has written several short fictions that have been featured in different anthologies. When she isn’t writing, she reads books, draws, and spends time with her family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 10, 2023
I’m not even going to admit how many hours of sleep I lost to this book. O.o. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I already know it won’t be the last.
I’m a huge fan of figure skating (don’t get me started on my favorite teams), so this book looked right up my alley. All the rink stuff (especially the flashbacks!) was really cute and fun, and I wished we had gotten a bit more of it. Especially the competitive aspects, though I realize that doesn’t go with the story. Maybe if there’s a sequel. ;)
My feelings on the second-chance romance were a little mixed. On the one hand, I’m not a huge fan of the miscommunication trope or some of the allusions to what they did as teens, but on the other, it was really nice to see two people work through their history and have a chance to fix their mistakes and find love.
Mistson was such a cute small town, and I loved the side characters that made up the lovable cast. And as I mentioned before, I highly enjoyed the suspenseful moments (no spoilers) and gobbled the book up as fast as I could. (Those flashbacks though. *cries*)
There were a few moments where the writing style felt stilted or underdeveloped, but it didn’t detract from my enjoyment that much.
CW: allusions to premarital s*x, tragic flashbacks, blood, loss, life-threatening situations.
I hope to read more by this author soon!
I’m a huge fan of figure skating (don’t get me started on my favorite teams), so this book looked right up my alley. All the rink stuff (especially the flashbacks!) was really cute and fun, and I wished we had gotten a bit more of it. Especially the competitive aspects, though I realize that doesn’t go with the story. Maybe if there’s a sequel. ;)
My feelings on the second-chance romance were a little mixed. On the one hand, I’m not a huge fan of the miscommunication trope or some of the allusions to what they did as teens, but on the other, it was really nice to see two people work through their history and have a chance to fix their mistakes and find love.
Mistson was such a cute small town, and I loved the side characters that made up the lovable cast. And as I mentioned before, I highly enjoyed the suspenseful moments (no spoilers) and gobbled the book up as fast as I could. (Those flashbacks though. *cries*)
There were a few moments where the writing style felt stilted or underdeveloped, but it didn’t detract from my enjoyment that much.
CW: allusions to premarital s*x, tragic flashbacks, blood, loss, life-threatening situations.
I hope to read more by this author soon!
April 18, 2023
This was a sweet story and I enjoyed it.
Okay, so I hate being this person, but it wasn't my favorite. I really liked the premise of it, yet unfortunately, the writing fell a little flat for me. There was a lot of telling and hardly any showing and I really struggled to connect with the characters. I also felt like all the past hurt and how it was resolved was done rather quickly. Especially toward the end with Alissa. The way she excepted Lavern after being told her whole life that her dad had left her was very unrealistic to me--that would leave her with abandonment issues and those are very difficult to get rid of. I guess for most people the plotline would be fine, but as someone who has experienced something similar and dealt with abandonment nearly their whole life, it rubbed me the wrong way a little.
But all in all, this was a sweet, somewhat simple story that was endearing and made me want to read more ice-skating books.
Thank you Havelah McLat for the ARC!
Okay, so I hate being this person, but it wasn't my favorite. I really liked the premise of it, yet unfortunately, the writing fell a little flat for me. There was a lot of telling and hardly any showing and I really struggled to connect with the characters. I also felt like all the past hurt and how it was resolved was done rather quickly. Especially toward the end with Alissa. The way she excepted Lavern after being told her whole life that her dad had left her was very unrealistic to me--that would leave her with abandonment issues and those are very difficult to get rid of. I guess for most people the plotline would be fine, but as someone who has experienced something similar and dealt with abandonment nearly their whole life, it rubbed me the wrong way a little.
But all in all, this was a sweet, somewhat simple story that was endearing and made me want to read more ice-skating books.
Thank you Havelah McLat for the ARC!
May 6, 2023
I really loved the story line and the back story that gave the characters depth and really bought them to life. A beautiful well written clean romance, that shows the way they were both feeling and their love was portrayed really well. Proving that you don’t need to add spice to create a beautiful clean romance. I really loved the story line and the back story that gave the characters depth and really bought them to life.
I love the way Havelah writes and explains the details throughout the book bringing the imagery of the novel to life in your mind.
A beautiful ending to a winter romance novel. It’s a great book that I really enjoyed reading, if you love a clean romance this is a must read!!!
I love the way Havelah writes and explains the details throughout the book bringing the imagery of the novel to life in your mind.
A beautiful ending to a winter romance novel. It’s a great book that I really enjoyed reading, if you love a clean romance this is a must read!!!
April 21, 2023
I received an ARC for this book, not really knowing what to expect. I am typically not one for straight up romances other than my every few month hallmark binges, and reading this felt like that. It felt very hallmark, which is good as someone who likes hallmark. It is a very cute story and a fun read, I enjoyed reading it and I like that even though it was romance it didn’t like over power the story, the story was there and the characters had development and ya know personality. I loved how the author switched POV (love a good duel POV).
If you are looking for a cute/sweet read, I would recommend giving this a try!
If you are looking for a cute/sweet read, I would recommend giving this a try!
April 25, 2023
Havelah crafts a heartwarming story with themes of forgiveness, faith and redemption. A must read for lovers of clean fiction and second chances.
This story got me in all the feels, it’s a bit of an emotional roller coaster with a happy ending.
Lavern has had so much hurt in his life, he’s made so many mistakes, I wanted to shake him and say “what were you thinking?!” While also hugging away all of his pain. Jaclyn is a strong single mom who puts her family first. She’s understandably scared to let Lavern in, but she wants to.
A great clean read with romance, second chance, and healing. This book deals openly with grief so read with tissues!
This story got me in all the feels, it’s a bit of an emotional roller coaster with a happy ending.
Lavern has had so much hurt in his life, he’s made so many mistakes, I wanted to shake him and say “what were you thinking?!” While also hugging away all of his pain. Jaclyn is a strong single mom who puts her family first. She’s understandably scared to let Lavern in, but she wants to.
A great clean read with romance, second chance, and healing. This book deals openly with grief so read with tissues!
April 10, 2023
Endorsement:
A sweet story of second chances, and overcoming past sorrows and mistakes to find a love that was meant to be. Havelah McLat has written a nice addition to the clean, Christian fiction genre. Let your heart be touched as hearts are healed and find their way home. - B.M. Baker, author of the Wonders Never Cease series and A Melody of Love series
A sweet story of second chances, and overcoming past sorrows and mistakes to find a love that was meant to be. Havelah McLat has written a nice addition to the clean, Christian fiction genre. Let your heart be touched as hearts are healed and find their way home. - B.M. Baker, author of the Wonders Never Cease series and A Melody of Love series
December 19, 2024
This is a very sweet second chance romance but also overcoming past hurt. I would describe it as a hallmark feeling read. Jaclyn is a retired figure skater helping her dad run their family ice rink when the dad breaks the news it's not making money anymore and they'll need to close it. Jaclyn doesn't want that to happen so brings in a company to help and the person they send turns out to be her child hood sweet heart Lavern that left her without a word after losing his brother in a heartbreaking accident. Now it is predictable, I could tell you the ending in chapter 2 but it's still a lovely story and a very easy and wholesome read.
June 30, 2023
"When You Returned" by HavelahMclat
🫶🏼This dazzling novel is written in the old perfect traditions of high-quality romantic stories that make your heart feel warm and cozy.
⛸️The Plot: Jaclyn is a single mother, a passionate figure skater, and an inheritress of the skating rink built by her grandparents with the deepest love ever. Even though her career ended up without starting to the fullest, Jaclyn does her best to live the life fate offered her instead. Everything goes smoothly until her family's rink gets at risk of closing forever. Jaclyn rings all the bells to save the family business, and the help comes not in the way she expects. In the face of Lavern, the old but not forgotten love from high school comes to help her get back on track. But everything gets more complicated with his arrival.
⛸️The Writing Style: This is the second book by this writer that managed to make me feel enveloped in a warm and soft blanket. It is written uniquely – tenderly, kindly, and easily, making me glued to the pages and keeping me interested from the beginning till the end. My eyes welled up with tears at some episodes, and a broad smile beamed on my face while reading others. But the whole book left an incredible aftertaste of almightly love, encouraging vibes, and gratitude traces. There are enough twists that give a dynamic to the novel, enough romantic scenes that provide a tenderness to the book, and enough real-life, heart-squeezing moments that give a feeling of participating in the events.
⛸️The Characters: The author did a great job portraying the characters in all aspects. Small details brilliantly revealed their inner worlds. I enjoyed the flashbacks that were a sort of retreat for the characters. The description of time travel in the characters' minds showed their transformation throughout the story. I enjoyed observing how the characters' souls got a cure through intertwisting the past and the present. I enjoyed the musings of characters about the second chance. The author succeeded in describing their reflections in a way that motivated me to process the "second chance" topic deeply.
🫶🏼The Fave Quote: "Life has its own timing."
💜Would I read other books by this author: Absolutely yes!
👏🏻My humble rating is: 5/5
🫶🏼This dazzling novel is written in the old perfect traditions of high-quality romantic stories that make your heart feel warm and cozy.
⛸️The Plot: Jaclyn is a single mother, a passionate figure skater, and an inheritress of the skating rink built by her grandparents with the deepest love ever. Even though her career ended up without starting to the fullest, Jaclyn does her best to live the life fate offered her instead. Everything goes smoothly until her family's rink gets at risk of closing forever. Jaclyn rings all the bells to save the family business, and the help comes not in the way she expects. In the face of Lavern, the old but not forgotten love from high school comes to help her get back on track. But everything gets more complicated with his arrival.
⛸️The Writing Style: This is the second book by this writer that managed to make me feel enveloped in a warm and soft blanket. It is written uniquely – tenderly, kindly, and easily, making me glued to the pages and keeping me interested from the beginning till the end. My eyes welled up with tears at some episodes, and a broad smile beamed on my face while reading others. But the whole book left an incredible aftertaste of almightly love, encouraging vibes, and gratitude traces. There are enough twists that give a dynamic to the novel, enough romantic scenes that provide a tenderness to the book, and enough real-life, heart-squeezing moments that give a feeling of participating in the events.
⛸️The Characters: The author did a great job portraying the characters in all aspects. Small details brilliantly revealed their inner worlds. I enjoyed the flashbacks that were a sort of retreat for the characters. The description of time travel in the characters' minds showed their transformation throughout the story. I enjoyed observing how the characters' souls got a cure through intertwisting the past and the present. I enjoyed the musings of characters about the second chance. The author succeeded in describing their reflections in a way that motivated me to process the "second chance" topic deeply.
🫶🏼The Fave Quote: "Life has its own timing."
💜Would I read other books by this author: Absolutely yes!
👏🏻My humble rating is: 5/5
April 5, 2023
The town of Mistson is full of charm. I love its caring community and its beautiful, cozy setting. ❄️🏘❄️
The storyline kept me engaged as Mistson’s Rink struggled to remain in business. Even more so, the person who was assigned to help save it. Lavern Nisley—Jaclyn Hague’s ex-boyfriend. I loved getting to know about their past in the form of memories and dreams: how they met, fell in love, the loss of Lavern's brother...It ties the past with the present in a well-organized-intriguing way. I also loved how Jaclyn sacrificed her passion for ice skating to raise her daughter. But I was glad she was able to remain at the rink to make a living.
Aside from the tension between Lavern and Jaclyn—as he worked to help her family save the rink—and the heartache of losing a loved one, it was refreshing when I came across the silly and happy moments. 😋💗
❄️Lavern is compassionate, kind, and helpful. Genuine. Yet carries heavy burdens of loss.
⛸Jaclyn is nurturing, loving, and determined. She values family and community.
❄️Alissa (Jaclyn’s daughter) is too cute! She’s loving, honest, and has a sense of humor.
⛸I truly like the rest of the characters, but there’s one person who I shouldn’t like yet I do—Philomena. She’s a bit over the top, which makes me laugh. I kind of feel sorry for her. That’s just me, though.
This is the first book I've read from Havelah McLat. And I love it! I adore her writing style, plot, characterization, and themes. I’m particular with what I read, which is why I’m so grateful for this wholesome, small town, inspirational romance. Now I’m eager to read her debut novel A Forever Summer (I already have my paperback copy waiting to be read!)
I recommend giving When You Returned a read! Tropes I picked up on:
🤍Friends to Lovers.
💙Forgiveness and Reconciliation.
🤍Discouragement to Hope.
💙Tragedy to Healing.
🤍Struggle to Growth.
The storyline kept me engaged as Mistson’s Rink struggled to remain in business. Even more so, the person who was assigned to help save it. Lavern Nisley—Jaclyn Hague’s ex-boyfriend. I loved getting to know about their past in the form of memories and dreams: how they met, fell in love, the loss of Lavern's brother...It ties the past with the present in a well-organized-intriguing way. I also loved how Jaclyn sacrificed her passion for ice skating to raise her daughter. But I was glad she was able to remain at the rink to make a living.
Aside from the tension between Lavern and Jaclyn—as he worked to help her family save the rink—and the heartache of losing a loved one, it was refreshing when I came across the silly and happy moments. 😋💗
❄️Lavern is compassionate, kind, and helpful. Genuine. Yet carries heavy burdens of loss.
⛸Jaclyn is nurturing, loving, and determined. She values family and community.
❄️Alissa (Jaclyn’s daughter) is too cute! She’s loving, honest, and has a sense of humor.
⛸I truly like the rest of the characters, but there’s one person who I shouldn’t like yet I do—Philomena. She’s a bit over the top, which makes me laugh. I kind of feel sorry for her. That’s just me, though.
This is the first book I've read from Havelah McLat. And I love it! I adore her writing style, plot, characterization, and themes. I’m particular with what I read, which is why I’m so grateful for this wholesome, small town, inspirational romance. Now I’m eager to read her debut novel A Forever Summer (I already have my paperback copy waiting to be read!)
I recommend giving When You Returned a read! Tropes I picked up on:
🤍Friends to Lovers.
💙Forgiveness and Reconciliation.
🤍Discouragement to Hope.
💙Tragedy to Healing.
🤍Struggle to Growth.
April 25, 2023
When You Returned is a sweet clean romance of second chance. Havelah did a wonderful job of making the characters relatable and fun. If you love Halmark movies, you will love this story.
The main character Joclyn is a single mother trying to save her family business, when an old flame from high school, Lavern returns to town and they meet once again. Both are healing from past hurts and unsure of loving again.
Will they overcome and heal to find love? Find out in this beautiful romance by Havelah McLat.
The main character Joclyn is a single mother trying to save her family business, when an old flame from high school, Lavern returns to town and they meet once again. Both are healing from past hurts and unsure of loving again.
Will they overcome and heal to find love? Find out in this beautiful romance by Havelah McLat.
February 15, 2024
Y’all this book took me by surprised and hooked me from the very beginning. Let me tell you I’m NOT huge on romance books BUT I’m so glad I gave this book a chance. This book made me an emotional wreck due to knowing that things were going to happen but at what point.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) I highly recommend you check this book out! The author is also very kind. Worth every penny.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) I highly recommend you check this book out! The author is also very kind. Worth every penny.
April 25, 2023
This is such a heartwarming and sweet story! I had the honor of beta reading it earlier this year, and I enjoyed every second of it. It's the perfect read for a snowy day with a cup of hot cocoa!
August 24, 2023
A sweet story about first loves and second chances.
Small town romance is always great.
It took them a while but they get there in the end.
Small town romance is always great.
It took them a while but they get there in the end.
September 9, 2024
This was such a sweet and endearing read! Totally makes me want to read more books that are about ice skating.
April 25, 2023
When You Returned is a sweet romance novel with an interesting plot line, well-developed and lovable characters, and themes of love and healing.
There was so much that I enjoyed from this book. First and foremost, I love any book that involves ice skating because I also love ice skating. So I was really excited about this being a central idea in the novel. Secondly, I appreciate the development of the characters and the growth that I saw in Jaclyn and Lavern. Both Lavern and Jaclyn are holding on to the past–their previous romance and past hurts and pains. Jaclyn struggles to come with grips with the fact that this man she loved deeply had abandoned her and is suddenly back in her life. She has to figure out how to forgive him–and to reveal a long kept secret.
Lavern is still grieving the death of his brother and Mistson brings back too many unwanted and painful memories. Not to mention, he wants to try to mend fences with Jaclyn but she keeps him at a distance.
The past and present meld for both of these characters as they start to heal from what had happened. I really enjoyed the back and forth between the past and the present. Not only did it help readers to understand the characters better, but it also helped to bring suspense into the novel and to move the plot line along.
While I enjoyed most of the novel, there were times where I felt like I just could not get into the story. Sometimes it felt like the author was telling and not showing what happened. However, I would still highly recommend this novel, especially if you like sweet and clean romances.
I had received a complimentary copy of the book and this is my honest review.
There was so much that I enjoyed from this book. First and foremost, I love any book that involves ice skating because I also love ice skating. So I was really excited about this being a central idea in the novel. Secondly, I appreciate the development of the characters and the growth that I saw in Jaclyn and Lavern. Both Lavern and Jaclyn are holding on to the past–their previous romance and past hurts and pains. Jaclyn struggles to come with grips with the fact that this man she loved deeply had abandoned her and is suddenly back in her life. She has to figure out how to forgive him–and to reveal a long kept secret.
Lavern is still grieving the death of his brother and Mistson brings back too many unwanted and painful memories. Not to mention, he wants to try to mend fences with Jaclyn but she keeps him at a distance.
The past and present meld for both of these characters as they start to heal from what had happened. I really enjoyed the back and forth between the past and the present. Not only did it help readers to understand the characters better, but it also helped to bring suspense into the novel and to move the plot line along.
While I enjoyed most of the novel, there were times where I felt like I just could not get into the story. Sometimes it felt like the author was telling and not showing what happened. However, I would still highly recommend this novel, especially if you like sweet and clean romances.
I had received a complimentary copy of the book and this is my honest review.
April 28, 2025
When You Returned tells the heartfelt story of Jaclyn, a passionate skater who leaves skating and joins her father's family business. Meanwhile, Lavern, a designer with a steady life, finds himself at a crossroads when his boss assigns him a new client—Jaclyn, his ex-girlfriend from years ago.
Their teenage romance ended abruptly when Lavern disappeared without explanation. Years later, their unexpected reunion reveals a shocking truth—Lavern has an eight-year-old daughter, Alissa. However, Jaclyn is firm in her belief that he no longer has a place in their lives. What follows is a touching narrative of love, loss, and the complexities of second chances.
One of the highlights of the novel is the beautiful portrayal of female friendships. The unwavering support among Jaclyn's friends is heartwarming and authentic. Her parents also stand out as pillars of strength, always believing in and supporting their daughter. Jaclyn’s deep love for skating remains a strong undercurrent throughout the story, adding a compelling layer to her character.
Lavern’s recollections of his childhood and the emotional connection he maintains with memories of his brother Dylan add depth to his character. The moment he reunites with his daughter is undoubtedly one of the most moving scenes in the book.
Overall, When You Returned is a tender, emotional journey that explores the power of love, redemption, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship.
May 30, 2023
Sweet and simply satisfying
I enjoyed A Forever Summer, also by Havelah McLat, and was very excited to read When You Returned. Once again, Havelah delivers a sweet romance with timeless themes. In this novel, I particularly enjoyed the theme of second chances and forgiveness.
I also loved the generational connection that was woven into the story. Jaclyn shared emotional ties to her grandmother, which made the mission of saving the rink that much more significant. Of course, I also loved the sparks that ignited as Jaclyn and Lavern found themselves trying to figure out their relationship. Several emotional scenes made this book well worth reading and I loved cheering on this adorable couple!
I’m eager to see authors continue to improve in their writing and storytelling and Havelah has flourished in this novel. The writing was a lot smoother, and I found myself quickly engaged in the plot. There were a few aspects of the story that made me a little skeptical about whether or not they would work out quite that smoothly in real life. Still, I appreciated that this book had a sound resolution and a happily ever after. I definitely look forward to future books and highly recommended to readers looking for a clean romance. You’ll be happy to discover a sweet and simple story with a core of healing from tragedies and forgiveness for mistakes.
I enjoyed A Forever Summer, also by Havelah McLat, and was very excited to read When You Returned. Once again, Havelah delivers a sweet romance with timeless themes. In this novel, I particularly enjoyed the theme of second chances and forgiveness.
I also loved the generational connection that was woven into the story. Jaclyn shared emotional ties to her grandmother, which made the mission of saving the rink that much more significant. Of course, I also loved the sparks that ignited as Jaclyn and Lavern found themselves trying to figure out their relationship. Several emotional scenes made this book well worth reading and I loved cheering on this adorable couple!
I’m eager to see authors continue to improve in their writing and storytelling and Havelah has flourished in this novel. The writing was a lot smoother, and I found myself quickly engaged in the plot. There were a few aspects of the story that made me a little skeptical about whether or not they would work out quite that smoothly in real life. Still, I appreciated that this book had a sound resolution and a happily ever after. I definitely look forward to future books and highly recommended to readers looking for a clean romance. You’ll be happy to discover a sweet and simple story with a core of healing from tragedies and forgiveness for mistakes.
April 26, 2025
When you want only one special person beside you during tough times and he couldn't be there. But the universe heard all your thoughts.
Imagine you get to have that person beside you forever. Magical! Right?
You get to experience this in "When you returned" by Havelah Mclat.
Jaclyn is a strong single mom of a beautiful girl. I really loved the idea of the ice rink and the talent Jaclyn had. But sadly, she couldn't pursue her dream due to the unexpected course of life.
Lavern is a self-made man with a tragic past. His pain is shown in a way that feels true to life. But when he gets the chance to connect with his past, he can't deny whether he admits it or not.
Jaclyn and Lavern have a strong connection, and their love story is sweet and intense—they get a second chance, and it's full of emotions, heartbreak, and healing.
I loved how he protected the most special place - the ice rink in Jaclyn's life.
The people around them, like the family of Jaclyn and friends at the skating rink, make the story feel cozy and real. But I love the characters of hotel owners also. Basically, the author has beautifully woven each character of this novel.
This book is a warm and engaging read that will touch your heart. It's perfect for anyone who's ever loved... and lived that love.
Imagine you get to have that person beside you forever. Magical! Right?
You get to experience this in "When you returned" by Havelah Mclat.
Jaclyn is a strong single mom of a beautiful girl. I really loved the idea of the ice rink and the talent Jaclyn had. But sadly, she couldn't pursue her dream due to the unexpected course of life.
Lavern is a self-made man with a tragic past. His pain is shown in a way that feels true to life. But when he gets the chance to connect with his past, he can't deny whether he admits it or not.
Jaclyn and Lavern have a strong connection, and their love story is sweet and intense—they get a second chance, and it's full of emotions, heartbreak, and healing.
I loved how he protected the most special place - the ice rink in Jaclyn's life.
The people around them, like the family of Jaclyn and friends at the skating rink, make the story feel cozy and real. But I love the characters of hotel owners also. Basically, the author has beautifully woven each character of this novel.
This book is a warm and engaging read that will touch your heart. It's perfect for anyone who's ever loved... and lived that love.
April 22, 2023
When You Returned is a really sweet second chance romance. This story sucked me in right from the start and was an enjoyment to read, even in the really hard scenes that had me crying. It is always an honor to be apart of a launch team. I’m so glad I received this ARC and my review is all my own thoughts and feelings, hope y’all check it out.
Jaclyn is a single mom trying to help her parents save their skating rink that’s been passed down through the generations. It’s not just a rink to them it has many family memories and special moments they treasure. The only way to save it is to put aside her differences and past hurts and work with the one person she wasn’t sure she would ever seen again. It’s a rough process as they sift through their past and try to establish a working relationship. I loved the snippets of their past that sneaks into the pages giving us a glimpse of their previous relationship and the innocent love of youth. Havelah writes a heartbreaking, traumatic event in a beautiful way. When life gets tough he left, but he’s back now, can she trust him to stay and not abandon her again? There is an unexpected happening at the end that had me on my toes reading as fast as I could to get to the outcome!
Jaclyn is a single mom trying to help her parents save their skating rink that’s been passed down through the generations. It’s not just a rink to them it has many family memories and special moments they treasure. The only way to save it is to put aside her differences and past hurts and work with the one person she wasn’t sure she would ever seen again. It’s a rough process as they sift through their past and try to establish a working relationship. I loved the snippets of their past that sneaks into the pages giving us a glimpse of their previous relationship and the innocent love of youth. Havelah writes a heartbreaking, traumatic event in a beautiful way. When life gets tough he left, but he’s back now, can she trust him to stay and not abandon her again? There is an unexpected happening at the end that had me on my toes reading as fast as I could to get to the outcome!
August 12, 2024
This book is a sweet, simple contemporary story of deep secrets, betrayed trust, love, and reconciliation. It is not a book that shies away from tough topics but touches on them in a loving and gentle way so that it doesn’t shock the system of the reader. Topics such as teenage pregnancy, personal loss, sudden death, and children in foster care are present in the book and handled tastefully.
This was a nice and wholesome read. I enjoyed how the characters worked through their past issues, especially Lavern who had to learn to navigate life after some extreme hardships and challenges. I wish that the characters had been able to address some of their misunderstandings earlier in their lives to avoid the pain, but the misunderstandings they had were realistic. Miscommunications or walking away from painful situations happen all the time in real life, leading us down paths of pain that easily could have been avoided.
If you are looking for a book that will deal with some hard issues in a gentle way while walking you through a journey that will eventually lead to reconciliation, restoration, and a comforting ending, then this is a book you should check out.
This was a nice and wholesome read. I enjoyed how the characters worked through their past issues, especially Lavern who had to learn to navigate life after some extreme hardships and challenges. I wish that the characters had been able to address some of their misunderstandings earlier in their lives to avoid the pain, but the misunderstandings they had were realistic. Miscommunications or walking away from painful situations happen all the time in real life, leading us down paths of pain that easily could have been avoided.
If you are looking for a book that will deal with some hard issues in a gentle way while walking you through a journey that will eventually lead to reconciliation, restoration, and a comforting ending, then this is a book you should check out.
April 24, 2025
When You Returned tells the heartfelt story of Jaclyn, a passionate skater who leaves skating and joins her father's family business. Meanwhile, Lavern, a designer with a steady life, finds himself at a crossroads when his boss assigns him a new client—Jaclyn, his ex-girlfriend from years ago.
Their teenage romance ended abruptly when Lavern disappeared without explanation. Years later, their unexpected reunion reveals a shocking truth—Lavern has an eight-year-old daughter, Alissa. However, Jaclyn is firm in her belief that he no longer has a place in their lives. What follows is a touching narrative of love, loss, and the complexities of second chances.
One of the highlights of the novel is the beautiful portrayal of female friendships. The unwavering support among Jaclyn's friends is heartwarming and authentic. Her parents also stand out as pillars of strength, always believing in and supporting their daughter. Jaclyn’s deep love for skating remains a strong undercurrent throughout the story, adding a compelling layer to her character.
Lavern’s recollections of his childhood and the emotional connection he maintains with memories of his brother Dylan add depth to his character. The moment he reunites with his daughter is undoubtedly one of the most moving scenes in the book.
Overall, When You Returned is a tender, emotional journey that explores the power of love, redemption, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship.
April 27, 2023
This review is more of a 3.5 but it wouldn't let me put it. I've had the pleasure of reading this book as an eArc. Please remember that everything in this review is my own personal opinion, if you want to read the book do it. Don't let what I have written put you off reading it.
Hallmark movies meets figure skating, a slightly predictable slow-burn romance that warms you from the inside out. Set in a small town, Jaclyn and Levern were once a couple...until that all changed.
For me personally this book wasn't my cup of tea, I found the writing a little flat and rushed especially the romance side of things. The ending for me was very rushed, I found Alissa accepting Levern to be a bit quick. Personally I would think she would be a little bit more reserved, hesitant or confused due to her father "leaving and not coming back".
Again don't let what I have written out you off reading this slow-burn hallmark kind of book. Thank you Havelah for letting me read your story.
Hallmark movies meets figure skating, a slightly predictable slow-burn romance that warms you from the inside out. Set in a small town, Jaclyn and Levern were once a couple...until that all changed.
For me personally this book wasn't my cup of tea, I found the writing a little flat and rushed especially the romance side of things. The ending for me was very rushed, I found Alissa accepting Levern to be a bit quick. Personally I would think she would be a little bit more reserved, hesitant or confused due to her father "leaving and not coming back".
Again don't let what I have written out you off reading this slow-burn hallmark kind of book. Thank you Havelah for letting me read your story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2023
Reading When You Returned is like stepping right into a hallmark movie—and I’m totally down for a good hallmark! Curl up with some hot cocoa and enjoy this ice skating story second chance romance ⛸️
Jacyln’s relationship with her daughter, Alissa, was very sweet and the conflict between Jaclyn and Lavern was well done. It was a slow start, but I became more invested in the characters as I went on and really wanted to see Lavern and Jaclyn communicate their past issues and get back together. I wish there was more at the end! It felt a little rushed in the last chapter, I would have enjoyed more details to the conclusion of the story. I need all the swoony deets!
This is a closed door, sweet, clean romance. My rating is 3.5 stars and I recommend this to anyone who likes hallmark or is looking for a sweet read ❄
Jacyln’s relationship with her daughter, Alissa, was very sweet and the conflict between Jaclyn and Lavern was well done. It was a slow start, but I became more invested in the characters as I went on and really wanted to see Lavern and Jaclyn communicate their past issues and get back together. I wish there was more at the end! It felt a little rushed in the last chapter, I would have enjoyed more details to the conclusion of the story. I need all the swoony deets!
This is a closed door, sweet, clean romance. My rating is 3.5 stars and I recommend this to anyone who likes hallmark or is looking for a sweet read ❄
April 29, 2025
"When You Returned" by Havelah McLat is a sweet and heartwarming story about second chances and healing. Jaclyn, a former skater and single mother, is trying to save her family’s ice rink. When help comes from Lavern, her old high school love, memories and old wounds come rushing back. Lavern, still carrying pain from his brother’s death, must face the past he ran away from. As they work together to save the rink, their bond grows stronger. This story is filled with hope, forgiveness, and faith. The small-town setting and the loving connection between Jaclyn and her daughter make it even more touching. It feels like a cozy Hallmark movie with real emotions. The author writes in a gentle, clean style that brings comfort and warmth. When You Returned shows that love and faith can help heal the deepest wounds.
May 25, 2025
When You Returned is a kind of sweet and little emotional love story.
The story is about love , loss and second chance.
🩷So The story is all about Jaclyn and Lavern.
Jaclyn, who is a single mother trying to save her family's Ice-Rink from closing down.She wants to keep the rink open because it's special to her and her family also.
🩵 Jaclyn wants to save ice rink in any condition so she took help from a business consultant.
🩷 Co-incidentally the guy came as consultant is Lavern, who is Jaclyn's Ex- Boyfriend, who left her without even saying any goodbye.
🩵So how will Jaclyn react and how they will proceed. For that must read the When You Returned.
🩷In short the story is all about second chance, forgiveness and how love can return even after a long time.🥺🤌💖
The story is about love , loss and second chance.
🩷So The story is all about Jaclyn and Lavern.
Jaclyn, who is a single mother trying to save her family's Ice-Rink from closing down.She wants to keep the rink open because it's special to her and her family also.
🩵 Jaclyn wants to save ice rink in any condition so she took help from a business consultant.
🩷 Co-incidentally the guy came as consultant is Lavern, who is Jaclyn's Ex- Boyfriend, who left her without even saying any goodbye.
🩵So how will Jaclyn react and how they will proceed. For that must read the When You Returned.
🩷In short the story is all about second chance, forgiveness and how love can return even after a long time.🥺🤌💖
May 5, 2025
This is a tender second-chance romance filled with warmth, emotional depth, and small-town charm.
Their reunion is emotional and raw, as both characters face the ghosts of their shared past and the heartbreak that drove them apart. The author masterfully explores grief, forgiveness, and the quiet strength it takes to love again. This book feels real, comforting, and full of heart. Perfect for readers who enjoy slow-burn stories, healing journeys, and meaningful love stories that linger long after the final page.
Their reunion is emotional and raw, as both characters face the ghosts of their shared past and the heartbreak that drove them apart. The author masterfully explores grief, forgiveness, and the quiet strength it takes to love again. This book feels real, comforting, and full of heart. Perfect for readers who enjoy slow-burn stories, healing journeys, and meaningful love stories that linger long after the final page.
July 28, 2024
This second chance at love story follows Jaclyn and Lavern as they reunite after being apart for eight years. It mostly takes place in an ice skating rink, which brought back childhood memories of going to the rink every weekend when I lived in Cape Cod. This story is has heartwarming moments and charming, picturesque settings. Their story is one of forgiveness and rediscovery. If you are a fan of Hallmark style movie, but in books, then you will be a fan of When You Returned.
April 16, 2023
When You Returned is a story that shows how life has a way of coming back full circle. A sweet clean romance that will take you through a roller coaster of emotions. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and their stories.
July 26, 2023
Jaclyn never once thought she would see Lavern again after he broke her heart eight years ago. He didn't want to come back, but he couldn’t resist the promotion opportunity and thought would be easy and quick task. Nope. Jacyln must work with her old flame in order to save the beloved rink that has been in Mistson for two (almost three) generations.
This story captures everything you need - small town, cozy vibe, memorable moments, and second chance romance.
This story captures everything you need - small town, cozy vibe, memorable moments, and second chance romance.
September 11, 2023
a sweet story!
I loved the complex history of the two main characters and how they were able to fall in love again! This was such a sweet story with a feel good ending! I really didn't want to put it down - I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next!
I loved the complex history of the two main characters and how they were able to fall in love again! This was such a sweet story with a feel good ending! I really didn't want to put it down - I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews