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Dansboro Crossing #1
Overdue: A Small Town Romance
The first time I saw her, I knew she was the one. Then she broke my nose. She started a war, one that would last through our childhood. After years of being gone, I'm home for good this time. If that isn't bad enough, guess who I find bent over a filing cabinet, looking better than I remember? Everything in me tells me to run. But I'm a glutton for punishment. How can I convince her I'm worth a second look if she sneers whenever she sees me? But I'm not the same boy she thought she knew. He was my nemesis, but also my childhood crush. He threw shade, I ignored him. He irritated me, I retaliated. It was a childhood war for the ages. But that's all about to change. Now we're all grown up and back in the small town where it all began. He's always been the most beautiful boy I've ever known. He's just as stunning as a man. His attitude though? I can still do without it. We might be able to build something, if he'd just keep his mouth closed. Can I learn to get along with the boy from down the street? Only if he learns to play nice.
206 pages, Paperback
Published August 17, 2023
30 people are currently reading
1281 people want to read
About the author
Avery Samson
29 books209 followersAvery Samson grew up on a ranch outside of a small west Texas town. Since she could remember, she’s had her face stuck in a book. High School graduation found her leaving ranch life for the big city.
After living all over the state of Texas, she now finds herself back on one of the family ranches near Dallas with her husband surrounded by cattle. A lot of them. They’re everywhere! When not traveling or reading, she spends her time writing.
Avery would love for you to follow her. She’s everywhere (just like those damn cows.)
Website - https://www.averysamsonbooks.com
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After living all over the state of Texas, she now finds herself back on one of the family ranches near Dallas with her husband surrounded by cattle. A lot of them. They’re everywhere! When not traveling or reading, she spends her time writing.
Avery would love for you to follow her. She’s everywhere (just like those damn cows.)
Website - https://www.averysamsonbooks.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/averysamsona...
Instagram - www.instagram.com/averysamson91
TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@averysamson91
Pinterest - www.pinterest.com/averysamson91
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 17, 2023
Our happily ever after is a story with no end. It will go on as long as I draw breath
From the moment he laid eyes on Austen Caraway, Reed Campbell fell for her but the battle-lines were drawn when she immediately broke his nose in this sweet but spicy, frenemies to lovers romance. Years later they’re both back in Dansboro Crossing where aspiring author Austen is the head librarian and Reed, having left the army to look after his sick grandma, is working as a landscaper and from the minute they see each again it’s a case of ‘normal service being resumed’ which meant Reed’s mouth engaging before his brain had time to catch up leading to several “did I just say that out loud moments!’ and that had Austen retaliating with a particular penchant for throwing whichever food that came to hand at him. When she’s not shutting him up by kissing him that is.
I loved Overdue, the first book in the Dansboro Crossing series. This book had me smiling throughout my read. From the cocky but kind hero Reed and the potty-mouthed drama queen that Austen surely was, to all the secondary character, each one added something to the story and drew me in. There was some delicious banter between Austen and Reed to go with the chemistry that was there even when they were teenagers but were too young and too stubborn to realise. Their romance played out before the populace of their small home town providing them with much entertainment and amusement with everyone cheering them on and I loved the flash backs to their school days as Austen looked at their encounters with fresh new eyes realising that Reid had been looking out for her all along albeit in a tormenting manner. With another two Caraway sisters left I can’t wait to return to this series for more.
From the moment he laid eyes on Austen Caraway, Reed Campbell fell for her but the battle-lines were drawn when she immediately broke his nose in this sweet but spicy, frenemies to lovers romance. Years later they’re both back in Dansboro Crossing where aspiring author Austen is the head librarian and Reed, having left the army to look after his sick grandma, is working as a landscaper and from the minute they see each again it’s a case of ‘normal service being resumed’ which meant Reed’s mouth engaging before his brain had time to catch up leading to several “did I just say that out loud moments!’ and that had Austen retaliating with a particular penchant for throwing whichever food that came to hand at him. When she’s not shutting him up by kissing him that is.
I loved Overdue, the first book in the Dansboro Crossing series. This book had me smiling throughout my read. From the cocky but kind hero Reed and the potty-mouthed drama queen that Austen surely was, to all the secondary character, each one added something to the story and drew me in. There was some delicious banter between Austen and Reed to go with the chemistry that was there even when they were teenagers but were too young and too stubborn to realise. Their romance played out before the populace of their small home town providing them with much entertainment and amusement with everyone cheering them on and I loved the flash backs to their school days as Austen looked at their encounters with fresh new eyes realising that Reid had been looking out for her all along albeit in a tormenting manner. With another two Caraway sisters left I can’t wait to return to this series for more.
September 15, 2023
I’m so sorry to say this but I didn’t like this book.
The plot sounded amazing and I was really excited because it sounded like a cute, funny small town romance about two people in their early/mid twenties who know each other since they were kids and fell in love. Somehow it was like that but the characters felt so shallow and the two protagonists had no chemistry at all. It was all very fast and there wasn’t really a moment to breathe instead the next thing happened and than the next and in my opinion it was a bit too much.
I still think that the plot idea was amazing and I believe that if the book was a bit longer and the characters had more time to grow and also explore their relationship I would’ve liked it more but I just think it wasn’t the right book for me.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
The plot sounded amazing and I was really excited because it sounded like a cute, funny small town romance about two people in their early/mid twenties who know each other since they were kids and fell in love. Somehow it was like that but the characters felt so shallow and the two protagonists had no chemistry at all. It was all very fast and there wasn’t really a moment to breathe instead the next thing happened and than the next and in my opinion it was a bit too much.
I still think that the plot idea was amazing and I believe that if the book was a bit longer and the characters had more time to grow and also explore their relationship I would’ve liked it more but I just think it wasn’t the right book for me.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2023
Sweet and saucy small-town romance between frenemies
There is just so much to like about this steamy story. I love how Reed almost drools when he sees the beautiful woman Austen has become. I love how she fights the attraction especially when she sees Reed shirtless. The internal dialogue is hilarious and unfortunate for Reed, his spoken dialogue to Austen is sometimes too much for the self-professed drama queen. I truly laughed-out-loud spontaneously during this book. Their fantasies about each other are so steamy and usually funny.
Basically, both Reed and Austen have returned home to their small-town of Dansboro Crossing, Texas. She started their feud when she was 12yo and kept it up throughout school; now that they are adults and Austen doesn’t know how to make it stop. Reed has wanted to be her friend ever since meeting her at 14yo. Reed and Austen are now roughly 28yo and 26yo respectively. They are the only ones who do not realize they have feelings for one another.
If you like sweet, humorous, and steamy small-town romances, you will want to read this book. So good! I volunteered to review an ARC of it through BookSirens. I have already planned to read the rest of this series. The next book will be about the youngest sister, Brontë. I can’t wait for Eliot’s book. How they got their names is a hoot too!
There is just so much to like about this steamy story. I love how Reed almost drools when he sees the beautiful woman Austen has become. I love how she fights the attraction especially when she sees Reed shirtless. The internal dialogue is hilarious and unfortunate for Reed, his spoken dialogue to Austen is sometimes too much for the self-professed drama queen. I truly laughed-out-loud spontaneously during this book. Their fantasies about each other are so steamy and usually funny.
Basically, both Reed and Austen have returned home to their small-town of Dansboro Crossing, Texas. She started their feud when she was 12yo and kept it up throughout school; now that they are adults and Austen doesn’t know how to make it stop. Reed has wanted to be her friend ever since meeting her at 14yo. Reed and Austen are now roughly 28yo and 26yo respectively. They are the only ones who do not realize they have feelings for one another.
If you like sweet, humorous, and steamy small-town romances, you will want to read this book. So good! I volunteered to review an ARC of it through BookSirens. I have already planned to read the rest of this series. The next book will be about the youngest sister, Brontë. I can’t wait for Eliot’s book. How they got their names is a hoot too!
August 9, 2023
I really enjoyed this one. Reed was sweet, adorable, and hilarious. Austen was a drama queen but she was written so well that it worked and was pretty relatable. She wasn’t annoying at all to me like she could have been if her character wasn’t written well. Their chemistry was really good. I enjoyed the bickering between them and the sweet moments once they got together. For me personally, I like enemies to lovers books to be a little bit longer so that you can delve deeper into the characters, their relationship/dynamic and how it changes over time. Because this one’s was shorter it felt a little rushed to me but Reed also explained it well when he said they were more like frenemies to lovers so I didn’t mind the quickness of the jump from “frenemies” to “lovers” as much as I might have otherwise. The flashbacks were super cute and placed well. It worked with the story, wasn’t confusing, and added a lot for the readers to see a glimpse of their past. Honestly the only thing I would have needed to make this a five star book was a little bit more of a slow burn and watching the shift from enemies to lovers. But overall it is a really enjoyable, quick, enemies to lovers, small town, romance that I would definitely recommend!
*I received an ARC copy for free but am leaving this review voluntarily*
*I received an ARC copy for free but am leaving this review voluntarily*
November 11, 2023
A cute small town read that I enjoyed. The main characters Reed and Austen have a past and was an enemies to lovers, he fell first story. The supporting characters were great and so was the growth of both Reed and Austen. This was an easy read by a new author to me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 24, 2023
3.5 stars! A cute, fun read with great spice and an amazing cast of characters. I loved the small town feel! *I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 21, 2023
Small town at its finest
This was my first read by this author & I was pleasantly surprised. The character development was sound and the story line was intriguing & maybe a little sweet.
Reed Campbell was a young boy who had suffered a tragedy no one should have to experience at a young age. After the loss of his parents, he’s moved to a town where he knows no one, to live with his grandmother. When his grandmother takes him to a neighbor’s house to meet a kid who will be in his grade, he first meets her beguiling younger sister, Austen, and is smitten. Years later after a short lived military career, he has come home to help his grandmother after having a stroke. Little did he know, Austen is back home after a failed writing career.
Austen Caraway was a young girl well beyond her years in her reading preferences. She’s brilliant, intelligent, and has no time for annoying little boys her older sister’s age. Not to mention, he also has a tendency to annoy her by saying & doing things before he speaks, which don’t always have the best outcome for him. After years spent trying to accomplish her dreams of being a Pulitzer and Nobel Prize winner in Literature, she comes home unsuccessful to take over the position of head librarian at the town library. But when a guest appears at her office door at a very inopportune time, she comes face to face with her childhood nemesis, Reed.
I loved the way that these two carry such a long history. From the ages of 12 & 14 respectively, Austen & Reed have had a rollercoaster of a relationship. They annoy each other to no end, but anytime a helping hand, a rescue, or cover up is needed, they can actually rely on each other. At the same time, Austen has a penchant to respond to Reed’s lack of filter in violent tendencies resulting in broken noses, food fights, and similar reactions.
In this frenemies to lovers rollercoaster ride, hatred really is the best form of passion. When that passion ignites, it explodes. All of the years combined have built up a rather volcanic love that seems to engulf these two. And as with any good small town, the rumor mill moves faster than human speed, so the whole town is attuned to the blossoming romance between these two.
The witty banter and silly antics between the two main characters had me giggling. The side characters were an excellent addition & clearly have me wanting more. Austen’s older sister, Eliot, was a whole other comedic relief when it came to her friendship with Reed. This trip to Dansboro Crossing makes me want to pick up a cup of coffee, or lemonade (depending on heat 🤪) & sit on the front porch swing for a while just to watch the world pass by. And of course, to watch the town drama unfold, ha.
This was my first read by this author & I was pleasantly surprised. The character development was sound and the story line was intriguing & maybe a little sweet.
Reed Campbell was a young boy who had suffered a tragedy no one should have to experience at a young age. After the loss of his parents, he’s moved to a town where he knows no one, to live with his grandmother. When his grandmother takes him to a neighbor’s house to meet a kid who will be in his grade, he first meets her beguiling younger sister, Austen, and is smitten. Years later after a short lived military career, he has come home to help his grandmother after having a stroke. Little did he know, Austen is back home after a failed writing career.
Austen Caraway was a young girl well beyond her years in her reading preferences. She’s brilliant, intelligent, and has no time for annoying little boys her older sister’s age. Not to mention, he also has a tendency to annoy her by saying & doing things before he speaks, which don’t always have the best outcome for him. After years spent trying to accomplish her dreams of being a Pulitzer and Nobel Prize winner in Literature, she comes home unsuccessful to take over the position of head librarian at the town library. But when a guest appears at her office door at a very inopportune time, she comes face to face with her childhood nemesis, Reed.
I loved the way that these two carry such a long history. From the ages of 12 & 14 respectively, Austen & Reed have had a rollercoaster of a relationship. They annoy each other to no end, but anytime a helping hand, a rescue, or cover up is needed, they can actually rely on each other. At the same time, Austen has a penchant to respond to Reed’s lack of filter in violent tendencies resulting in broken noses, food fights, and similar reactions.
In this frenemies to lovers rollercoaster ride, hatred really is the best form of passion. When that passion ignites, it explodes. All of the years combined have built up a rather volcanic love that seems to engulf these two. And as with any good small town, the rumor mill moves faster than human speed, so the whole town is attuned to the blossoming romance between these two.
The witty banter and silly antics between the two main characters had me giggling. The side characters were an excellent addition & clearly have me wanting more. Austen’s older sister, Eliot, was a whole other comedic relief when it came to her friendship with Reed. This trip to Dansboro Crossing makes me want to pick up a cup of coffee, or lemonade (depending on heat 🤪) & sit on the front porch swing for a while just to watch the world pass by. And of course, to watch the town drama unfold, ha.
Read
August 16, 2023I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a fun book and I totally adored everything about this book, the characters and the plot. It was an absolutely perfect book and so much fun. The main couple is Austen and Reed and I adored watching them see what everyone else in their lives knew.
Reed and Austen met when he was 14 and she was 12. Austen is one of three sisters, and her older sister became besties with Reed when he moves next door into his grandmother's house. Meanwhile Reed was always around, and it drove Austin crazy and so they did not treat each other the best while growing up.
Reed graduates and then goes away to join the military. Now ten years have gone by and he is back because his grandmother needs him. Austen is now the town librarian and is living at home again, so they are neighbors again.
These two were so much fun. Reed does things to bug Austen because he wants her eyes on him. She finally sees him and starts to see the chemistry between him. He has always wanted her and now they have to figure out how to be attracted but not drive each other crazy.
I laughed, I giggled, I fell in love with this small town and both Reed, Austen and her two sisters. This is novella length and an awesome light and fun read. I cannot wait to visit this series again.
This was such a fun book and I totally adored everything about this book, the characters and the plot. It was an absolutely perfect book and so much fun. The main couple is Austen and Reed and I adored watching them see what everyone else in their lives knew.
Reed and Austen met when he was 14 and she was 12. Austen is one of three sisters, and her older sister became besties with Reed when he moves next door into his grandmother's house. Meanwhile Reed was always around, and it drove Austin crazy and so they did not treat each other the best while growing up.
Reed graduates and then goes away to join the military. Now ten years have gone by and he is back because his grandmother needs him. Austen is now the town librarian and is living at home again, so they are neighbors again.
These two were so much fun. Reed does things to bug Austen because he wants her eyes on him. She finally sees him and starts to see the chemistry between him. He has always wanted her and now they have to figure out how to be attracted but not drive each other crazy.
I laughed, I giggled, I fell in love with this small town and both Reed, Austen and her two sisters. This is novella length and an awesome light and fun read. I cannot wait to visit this series again.
August 17, 2023
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
📚Overdue📚
Dansboro Crossing #1
By Avery Samson
⭐ 5/5 ❤️ 5/5
📚 Second Chance Romance
📚 Small Town Romance
📚 Childhood Enemies
Reed only ever wanted to be seen, most by Austen. But his problem is, his mouth is faster than his brain. Almost unable to stop, he says the wrongest things at the wrong time.
Austen secretly was fascinated by the new boy in town but with his way and the things he says, he won’t make positive points with her, like ever.
The story follows Austen and Reed. How they met for the first time and how things always went south with them.
It still affects them today. Now with both in the same small town again. fourteen years later.
We have wonderful bickering and bantering moments as well as sweet ones, when they get their things together. But they have to learn to be together. Austen not to be too fast offended and Reed to think twice before speaking.
We have hilarious residents. Like Grandma Jennie or Austen’s sister Eliot. The flashbacks were good to see, because it made their story more understandable. The internal dialogue provides some lol moments.
I don’t think it is too fast paced, can we see their attraction and secret feelings, and how that was this way for almost the whole time they knew each other. Their being together was inevitable.
📚Overdue📚
Dansboro Crossing #1
By Avery Samson
⭐ 5/5 ❤️ 5/5
📚 Second Chance Romance
📚 Small Town Romance
📚 Childhood Enemies
Reed only ever wanted to be seen, most by Austen. But his problem is, his mouth is faster than his brain. Almost unable to stop, he says the wrongest things at the wrong time.
Austen secretly was fascinated by the new boy in town but with his way and the things he says, he won’t make positive points with her, like ever.
The story follows Austen and Reed. How they met for the first time and how things always went south with them.
It still affects them today. Now with both in the same small town again. fourteen years later.
We have wonderful bickering and bantering moments as well as sweet ones, when they get their things together. But they have to learn to be together. Austen not to be too fast offended and Reed to think twice before speaking.
We have hilarious residents. Like Grandma Jennie or Austen’s sister Eliot. The flashbacks were good to see, because it made their story more understandable. The internal dialogue provides some lol moments.
I don’t think it is too fast paced, can we see their attraction and secret feelings, and how that was this way for almost the whole time they knew each other. Their being together was inevitable.
August 22, 2023
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE : 🔥🔥.5
This was a cute and easy read. I love frenemies to lovers, small towns and second chances so this was right up my alley! This was my first book by Avery Samson and I enjoyed the storytelling and the pace. Plus I loved Reed and Austen!
Austen and Reed have history. They were childhood enemies that never knew how to act around each other, and now as adults, they find themselves back in their small hometown— Reed to take care of his Grandmother and Austen running the library. They can’t seem to tolerate each other, but also can’t stay away!
Reed has foot-in-mouth disease that’s hilarious to watch. Austen (yes named after Jane Austen) is a bit of a drama queen, but still is likable under all her blustering and tantrums. I loved seeing them interact while everyone but them knows they have a thing for each other.
I love small towns because the side characters always play such great roles in bringing the main couple together and that works well here. I also loved Austen and Reed battling their chemistry and their past. Having the flashbacks really added to their history.
Overall an enjoyable read that’s on the shorter side, making the story move quickly. recommend if you like small towns, adorable MMCs and some laugh out loud funny moments.
SPICE : 🔥🔥.5
This was a cute and easy read. I love frenemies to lovers, small towns and second chances so this was right up my alley! This was my first book by Avery Samson and I enjoyed the storytelling and the pace. Plus I loved Reed and Austen!
Austen and Reed have history. They were childhood enemies that never knew how to act around each other, and now as adults, they find themselves back in their small hometown— Reed to take care of his Grandmother and Austen running the library. They can’t seem to tolerate each other, but also can’t stay away!
Reed has foot-in-mouth disease that’s hilarious to watch. Austen (yes named after Jane Austen) is a bit of a drama queen, but still is likable under all her blustering and tantrums. I loved seeing them interact while everyone but them knows they have a thing for each other.
I love small towns because the side characters always play such great roles in bringing the main couple together and that works well here. I also loved Austen and Reed battling their chemistry and their past. Having the flashbacks really added to their history.
Overall an enjoyable read that’s on the shorter side, making the story move quickly. recommend if you like small towns, adorable MMCs and some laugh out loud funny moments.
September 3, 2023
Avery Samson surprised me with this one. Overdue is a blossoming enemies-to-lovers romance between Reed and Austen that started during their childhood. Austen is a feisty 12-year-old girl who caught the eyes of Reed, but instead of charming him with her smile, she breaks his nose upon their first meeting, starting a war that lasted for decades. The two find themselves on opposite sides of their small town as they have to navigate around one another, fighting the sensations and urges that heat their feelings.
Reed is a cocky war hero returning to his small town to care for his ill grandmother. Austen is the local librarian, aspiring to be an author but still filled with spitfire and an internal monologue that had me laughing out loud. They have a rollercoaster of a relationship as the banter between them is constant, filled with annoyance and silly bickering, but as the two grow closer, they learn to rely on one another. Reed's inability to control his words before he thinks results in Austen's instant need for food fights and broken noses. This was a fun read and I truly adored it. The characters were well written and the plot was developed. Overall, a good read from a new to me author. I plan to read more from Avery Samson!
Reed is a cocky war hero returning to his small town to care for his ill grandmother. Austen is the local librarian, aspiring to be an author but still filled with spitfire and an internal monologue that had me laughing out loud. They have a rollercoaster of a relationship as the banter between them is constant, filled with annoyance and silly bickering, but as the two grow closer, they learn to rely on one another. Reed's inability to control his words before he thinks results in Austen's instant need for food fights and broken noses. This was a fun read and I truly adored it. The characters were well written and the plot was developed. Overall, a good read from a new to me author. I plan to read more from Avery Samson!
September 2, 2023
Overdue was such a sweet small town romance that I absolutely adored!
Austen has hated Reed ever since they first met when she was 12 and 14. She didn't know that 14 year old boys have no idea how to act around a girl that he falls for at first sight. Now years later, both have moved back to the small town that they grew up in and old habits die hard. Reed still makes inappropriate comments that gets Austen riled up and she just wants to smack him, or throw a pie at him.
I love the dual perspectives so that as a reader I got to see both Reed and Austen's inner thoughts. I think without that, we too would think that Reed is a jerk. And I loved that we got the flashbacks to see how things played out back in high school and how each interaction then was all a buildup to how their story would play out to give them a HEA.
This is the fourth book that I've read by Avery Samson and I've loved all four of them so it's safe to say that I'm a fan and will be reading lots more of her in the future.
I received an advance copy of Overdue and am voluntarily and happily giving my feedback!
Austen has hated Reed ever since they first met when she was 12 and 14. She didn't know that 14 year old boys have no idea how to act around a girl that he falls for at first sight. Now years later, both have moved back to the small town that they grew up in and old habits die hard. Reed still makes inappropriate comments that gets Austen riled up and she just wants to smack him, or throw a pie at him.
I love the dual perspectives so that as a reader I got to see both Reed and Austen's inner thoughts. I think without that, we too would think that Reed is a jerk. And I loved that we got the flashbacks to see how things played out back in high school and how each interaction then was all a buildup to how their story would play out to give them a HEA.
This is the fourth book that I've read by Avery Samson and I've loved all four of them so it's safe to say that I'm a fan and will be reading lots more of her in the future.
I received an advance copy of Overdue and am voluntarily and happily giving my feedback!
August 17, 2023
A good start to the series. Reed and Austen were frenemies, but neither could (or would) ever say why or what happened. Reed was sweet, a glutton for punishment and acted the fool: by saying inappropriate things, when around Austen. Austen believed she was meant to do more with her life that what she had accomplished, and in my opinion, came off a little preachy at times. Almost like she felt she was better than everyone else.
With that being said, I still enjoyed this book. Once she accepted some truths, she had the aha moment and decided she would try to do better. Once Reed finally admitted how he felt towards her, he also got better at thinking before he spoke. Once he was in, he was all in. Their “fighting” was hilarious at times and you could feel the chemistry between them. His grandma was sweet and her sister let her have her honest opinion, even when she didn’t want to hear it.
I really enjoyed this book and meeting the residents of the town. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
With that being said, I still enjoyed this book. Once she accepted some truths, she had the aha moment and decided she would try to do better. Once Reed finally admitted how he felt towards her, he also got better at thinking before he spoke. Once he was in, he was all in. Their “fighting” was hilarious at times and you could feel the chemistry between them. His grandma was sweet and her sister let her have her honest opinion, even when she didn’t want to hear it.
I really enjoyed this book and meeting the residents of the town. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
April 1, 2025
A Solid Read with Moments to Love
Overdue by Avery Samson is a sweet and satisfying story, with just enough emotional depth to keep the pages turning. Centered around a book-loving protagonist and a long-standing crush, the story hits familiar romantic beats but adds its own cozy charm.
The library setting and the bookish themes give it a unique appeal, especially for readers who enjoy stories that celebrate literature and quiet connections. The chemistry between the characters is enjoyable, even if some of the plot points feel a little predictable at times.
What holds the book back slightly is pacing—there are moments where the story lingers a bit too long or skips ahead when you'd rather stay in the scene. Still, the emotional payoff and heartwarming moments make up for those lulls.
Overall, Overdue is a feel-good, comfort-read kind of book. If you're a fan of slow-burn romance, mutual pining, or anything set in or around a library, it’s worth picking up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overdue by Avery Samson is a sweet and satisfying story, with just enough emotional depth to keep the pages turning. Centered around a book-loving protagonist and a long-standing crush, the story hits familiar romantic beats but adds its own cozy charm.
The library setting and the bookish themes give it a unique appeal, especially for readers who enjoy stories that celebrate literature and quiet connections. The chemistry between the characters is enjoyable, even if some of the plot points feel a little predictable at times.
What holds the book back slightly is pacing—there are moments where the story lingers a bit too long or skips ahead when you'd rather stay in the scene. Still, the emotional payoff and heartwarming moments make up for those lulls.
Overall, Overdue is a feel-good, comfort-read kind of book. If you're a fan of slow-burn romance, mutual pining, or anything set in or around a library, it’s worth picking up.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 14, 2023
The Perfect Title!
What a cute book! This was my first book by Avery Samson and I enjoyed it. The title is perfect! Not only does it describe the main characters’ relationship, but it also references Austen’s occupation. Reed and Austen’s love story actually began when they where children, but you wouldn’t know it by all the quick tempered banter between them as adults. There are moments of flashbacks to their childhood that explains why one MC or the other are reacting the way they are during present day occurrences. The flashbacks are quick and well written. They give you just the right context. This book is full of family love/support, gossiping small town community, and two main characters that have loved each other for years (unbeknownst to them). If you enjoy quick read books under 200 pages and enjoy the small-town, enemies to lovers, low angst genres, this book is for you!
What a cute book! This was my first book by Avery Samson and I enjoyed it. The title is perfect! Not only does it describe the main characters’ relationship, but it also references Austen’s occupation. Reed and Austen’s love story actually began when they where children, but you wouldn’t know it by all the quick tempered banter between them as adults. There are moments of flashbacks to their childhood that explains why one MC or the other are reacting the way they are during present day occurrences. The flashbacks are quick and well written. They give you just the right context. This book is full of family love/support, gossiping small town community, and two main characters that have loved each other for years (unbeknownst to them). If you enjoy quick read books under 200 pages and enjoy the small-town, enemies to lovers, low angst genres, this book is for you!
August 17, 2023
📚 𝕆𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕕𝕦𝕖 ARC Review 📚
Tropes / What to Expect
📚Slow Burn
📚Enemies to Lovers
📚He Falls First
📚Sister's Best Friend
📚Reverse Grump x Sunshine
📚Small Town
Available August 17
Reed and Austen were childhood neighbors. Reed became best friends with Austen's older sister so he was allllllways around, which got on Austens nerves.
Austen and Reed both leave the small town after high school but find themselves back years later. The chemistry between them begins to spark when Reed wont leave Austen alone. He was hilarious and I really enjoyed the two of them together.
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice- .5
#overdue #averysamson #comingsoon #bookswithspice #bookshelf #instaread #booksbooksbooks #booklife #bookgram #bookstagram #booklover #book #bookworm #reading #bookish #bookaddict #booknerd #bibliophile #instabook #booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #bookreview #bookcommunity #instabooks #booklovers
Tropes / What to Expect
📚Slow Burn
📚Enemies to Lovers
📚He Falls First
📚Sister's Best Friend
📚Reverse Grump x Sunshine
📚Small Town
Available August 17
Reed and Austen were childhood neighbors. Reed became best friends with Austen's older sister so he was allllllways around, which got on Austens nerves.
Austen and Reed both leave the small town after high school but find themselves back years later. The chemistry between them begins to spark when Reed wont leave Austen alone. He was hilarious and I really enjoyed the two of them together.
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice- .5
#overdue #averysamson #comingsoon #bookswithspice #bookshelf #instaread #booksbooksbooks #booklife #bookgram #bookstagram #booklover #book #bookworm #reading #bookish #bookaddict #booknerd #bibliophile #instabook #booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #bookreview #bookcommunity #instabooks #booklovers
August 18, 2023
This is the first in a new series and this is Austen and Reed’s journey. These two became neighbours in childhood, and Reed became Austen’s older sisters’ best friend, but he the two of them did not get off to the best of starts, as on first meeting she broke his nose. Now years later Reed and Austen are both back in town, when she is an aspiring author working as a librarian, and he is ex-military who came home to take care of his grandma and working as a landscaper. These two may be like petrol and a match, but the sparks fly between them.
This is a well written story which is easy to read, with humor, witty banter, emotions, frenemies / lovers, family, friendships, fate, second chances, bickering, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, steamy, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
This is a well written story which is easy to read, with humor, witty banter, emotions, frenemies / lovers, family, friendships, fate, second chances, bickering, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, steamy, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
September 6, 2023
3.5* ARC Review - Small Town, Childhood Enemies to Forever
This is the first book I have read by this author and thought it sounded like a cute story when the ARC was offered by Hidden Gems. Its a cute small town romance that focuses on Austen and Reed as they both move back to their hometown of Dansboro Crossing. They have known and been at odds since childhood, but it is obvious that Reed has feelings for her, even though Austen seems to miss what is behind his actions.
The book is dual perspectives which is good to show what each is thinking and give a great internal monologue from each side of the story. Also, the book takes us back to their childhood and shows us the events that brought them to where they are now. So many of the stories are cleverly written and very funny, but at times I found the characters to be juvenile, especially Austen.
This is the first book I have read by this author and thought it sounded like a cute story when the ARC was offered by Hidden Gems. Its a cute small town romance that focuses on Austen and Reed as they both move back to their hometown of Dansboro Crossing. They have known and been at odds since childhood, but it is obvious that Reed has feelings for her, even though Austen seems to miss what is behind his actions.
The book is dual perspectives which is good to show what each is thinking and give a great internal monologue from each side of the story. Also, the book takes us back to their childhood and shows us the events that brought them to where they are now. So many of the stories are cleverly written and very funny, but at times I found the characters to be juvenile, especially Austen.
August 20, 2023
“Overdue” is a small town/enemies to lovers romance by Avery Samson, and it had me laughing all the way through! Reed and Austen have been rivals since he was 14 and she was 12, but what Austen doesn’t know is that Reed has always had feelings for her - he’s just really bad at getting her attention. I thought Reed and Austen’s love story was fun and dramatic, with the perfect amount of angst. They both had things they needed to work out before they could be happy, but I was pleased when they found their way to each other in the end. I loved how kindhearted Reed was, and how completely devoted he was to his grandma’s comfort and care. As for Austen, I thought she was smart and sassy, which is always fun to read about. I would definitely recommend!
August 25, 2023
Reed and Austen grew up 4 doors away from each other and from their initial meeting things don’t go as planned, things are often said that aren’t meant, and this leads to some very funny scenes. After several years apart Reed and Austen find themselves back in their hometown at the same time and this is when the sparks really fly.
From the first page I absolutely loved this book, it’s written really well and flows perfectly. It’s the perfect frenemies to lovers, steamy, small town romance. The main characters were really likeable as were the side characters, really looking forward to reading Brontë’s story which is released in September.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From the first page I absolutely loved this book, it’s written really well and flows perfectly. It’s the perfect frenemies to lovers, steamy, small town romance. The main characters were really likeable as were the side characters, really looking forward to reading Brontë’s story which is released in September.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 18, 2023
Let's talk about my favorite part of this book first: the banter and inner dialogue. Reed and Austen were hilarious. Reed being completely clueless as to how his words come across was hilariously painful at times. There were so many laugh-out-loud moments and I loved it. Small town romances are so fun in that the town usually has a role in the main characters coming together or input of some kind. I enjoyed the back and forth from their past to the present. It added depth and showed their growth. This was a great small town romance and I am excited to read more and see how the other Caraway sisters find their loves.
August 18, 2023
Overdue by Avery Samson is the First book in the Dansboro Crossing Series. This is the story of Austen Caraway and Reed Campbell. Reed and Austen had a moment when they were kids. Now in their present day both have come back to their home of Dansboro Crossing. Reed because he is out of the military doing landscaping. But, more importantly he is now helping to care for his sick grandmother. Austen is working to become a author but right now she is the head librarian. When these to see each other again the sparks are flying but Austen is trying to resit the pull. Enjoyed their story.
August 22, 2023
Avery Samson is a new-to-me author and I quite enjoyed Overdue. It was a witty small-town frenemies-to-lovers romance with captivating characters that had sizzling chemistry.
I loved the banter between Austen and Reese. She is a bit of a drama queen, but he handles it well! The story goes back and forth between present chapters and flashbacks, so the reader really gets a sense of the history between Austen and Reese and how they got to be where they are today.
Overdue isn't a very long book, so it's easy to indulge in this sweet and spicy romcom! I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
I loved the banter between Austen and Reese. She is a bit of a drama queen, but he handles it well! The story goes back and forth between present chapters and flashbacks, so the reader really gets a sense of the history between Austen and Reese and how they got to be where they are today.
Overdue isn't a very long book, so it's easy to indulge in this sweet and spicy romcom! I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
November 9, 2023
Samson does it again with her laugh-out-loud characters and steamy imagination.
Austen is a girl from a small town who returns home to be the head librarian while re-establishing her goals as an aspiring writer. Living back at home, she realises her next door neighbour and nemesis Reed is also back home, caring for his grandmother.
This book is deliciously written with scenes from their childhood giving great insight (and laughs) into the characters. Definitely a great read and I'm looking forward to the next one!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Austen is a girl from a small town who returns home to be the head librarian while re-establishing her goals as an aspiring writer. Living back at home, she realises her next door neighbour and nemesis Reed is also back home, caring for his grandmother.
This book is deliciously written with scenes from their childhood giving great insight (and laughs) into the characters. Definitely a great read and I'm looking forward to the next one!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
March 4, 2024I really enjoyed this sweet and saucy small-town romance between frenemies.
Reed, 14, and Austen, 12, met one summer day when Reed came to live with his grandmother, Austen's neighbor. He fell for her from the moment he saw her; he's just REALLY bad at showing her and getting her attention. To Austen, Reed comes off as annoying and a jerk; too bad he is so attractive to her! I adored watching them see what everyone else in their lives knew; they were meant to be together.
Really fun and fast read. Looking forward to the others in the series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reed, 14, and Austen, 12, met one summer day when Reed came to live with his grandmother, Austen's neighbor. He fell for her from the moment he saw her; he's just REALLY bad at showing her and getting her attention. To Austen, Reed comes off as annoying and a jerk; too bad he is so attractive to her! I adored watching them see what everyone else in their lives knew; they were meant to be together.
Really fun and fast read. Looking forward to the others in the series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 7, 2023
This is the first book I have read from this author, but it will not be the last. I am hooked. I can not wait to see what happens in the next book. Reed and Austen have been frenemies since they met as teenagers. They both go their own way until they both arrive back to town at the same time. It is funny to read how Reed messes up everytime he talks to Austen and she keeps getting so angry with him. I highly recommend this book to all romance readers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 29, 2023
Thanks to Booksirens for this ARC. This was a cute lowkey small town "enemies to lovers" romance. Austen and Reed knew each other since they were young living just three houses away from each other and Reed always teased Austen growing up. I felt like the characters in the beginning were very immature but after the character development I enjoyed it and I loved the past storyline also it was cute and it gave Austen and Reed more depth. So this wasn't the best but it was cute and I liked it, I just think there could have been more to this story and more impact. 3.5 stars.
April 12, 2024
REED AND AUSTEN
I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review.
I loved this book because it can be considered as a rom-com. Austen and Reed have been feuding since they were teenagers. Reed can’t seem to control his mouth around Austen and Austen can’t seem to control her violent temper around Reed. Fourteen years later, they meet again and the feuding starts anew. Intervention in the form of Reed’s grandmother and Austen’s sister, Eliot, gets the star-crossed couple on track. A very interesting story of frenemies to lovers.
I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review.
I loved this book because it can be considered as a rom-com. Austen and Reed have been feuding since they were teenagers. Reed can’t seem to control his mouth around Austen and Austen can’t seem to control her violent temper around Reed. Fourteen years later, they meet again and the feuding starts anew. Intervention in the form of Reed’s grandmother and Austen’s sister, Eliot, gets the star-crossed couple on track. A very interesting story of frenemies to lovers.
April 22, 2024
Misunderstood Intentions
Austen and Reed have bickered since childhood but when they both return home to Dansboro Crossing the nature of their arguments is revealed. The tension between them eventually explodes into a wonderful mess of emotions and understanding despite the long journey there. This story was well-written and chemistry was perceivable to everyone but them, which added some cute moments to the plot.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Austen and Reed have bickered since childhood but when they both return home to Dansboro Crossing the nature of their arguments is revealed. The tension between them eventually explodes into a wonderful mess of emotions and understanding despite the long journey there. This story was well-written and chemistry was perceivable to everyone but them, which added some cute moments to the plot.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 18, 2023
I enjoyed read this book, I am a great fan of friends to lovers or in this case frenemies to lovers, Austen enjoyed giving Reed a hard time growing up even though he was her childhood crush, Reed has always thought of Austen as the one, but she was to busy waging a friendly war to realise that Reed liked her. Years later, can they resolve the feelings that haven’t gone away? Thank you for the ARC.
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