In the small town of Northwood, New Hampshire, the embers of Cassie and TJ's twenty-year infatuation roar into a blazing bonfire! They are back in each other's lives forever and begin the journey of making TJ's wild dreams for Cassie's small hometown a reality. Cassie and TJ do their best to honor a promise of chastity. However, they find their physical attraction ebbs and flows as tumultuous, emotional ghosts from the past haunt their current bliss. Cassie's father––an old-fashioned Yankee––goes from stubborn to supportive as the couple, their family, and friends ride emotional roller coasters. Cassie's mother––a sweet, soft-spoken woman, becomes outspoken in times of trial.
The sequel to BIG Dreams Inn a Small NH Town continues the romantic, semi-fictional tale full of drama and country charm. Follow the progress of TJ's outlandish dreams. Are they too BIG for this small town? Peer into Cassie's evolving heart and mind. Sympathize with her hopes and dreams while cheering on her commitment to family and friends. Do fairytales come true? Does God gift us with miracles?
Is there ever an end to the people popping onto the scene from TJ's past, intent on blowing up his and Cassie's fairytale life? Come along for the ride, and get ready for surprises!
It was fun finding out was was next for the characters in this feel-good sequel. The many references to local businesses, landmarks, and meteorologists show how much fun the author had writing this.
I really enjoyed this sequel! It takes everything I loved about BIG Dreams Inn a Small NH Town and deepens it. Cassie and TJ’s relationship isn’t all sunshine and roses, it’s messy, complicated, and real. That’s what made me connect with them so strongly. I loved the way Allen-Kennard showed how past ghosts still influence the present. The push and pull between physical attraction and their promise of chastity created such believable tension. I also appreciated how the supporting cast was fleshed out. Cassie’s parents in particular surprised me with their growth. The pacing slowed a little in the middle with TJ’s many ideas for the town, but once the drama ramped back up, I couldn’t put it down. The ending left me with just enough resolution but also curious about what’s next for this couple.
BIG Dreams Explode! is a heartfelt sequel that delivers romance, faith, and small-town charm in the best way. Cassie and TJ’s story is full of passion, family drama, and just the right amount of surprises.