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Sterling Falls #2
Sterling Brick
Love wasn’t part of the blueprint when high school sweethearts reunite in their small town. But this former military man never forgot the girl he left behind and he’s more determined than ever to rebuild their relationship brick by brick and heart by heart.
Getting locked in the men’s restroom during my mother’s funeral wasn’t exactly how I expected to run into my high school sweetheart. The one who got away. The one who broke my heart.
I could toss the busted doorknob in my hand at him, but I’d prefer to get the heck away. Because twenty years later, Knox Sylver isn’t a teenage boy anymore but a broad-shouldered, thick scruff man with eyes that still look at me like I’m the only person in the room.
As a newly divorced mother of two teenagers, it’s been a long time since anyone sees me. And Knox is definitely watching.
Unfortunately, he made choices in the past and I wasn’t one of them.
According to him, that is ancient history.
Also, according to him, it’s never too late for a second chance. He’s out to prove he’s solid and stable, having returned to our small hometown, in a better place after a career in the military. He’s a local hero as a fireman and he wants to rekindle the flame between us.
I’m the one with decisions this round.
Do I stay where memories hurt? Or do I leave my past, and Knox, behind me again?
+ + +
From L.B. Dunbar comes an all-new small-town romance with a big family and the silver fox swoon one expects from her love over-40 romances.
Getting locked in the men’s restroom during my mother’s funeral wasn’t exactly how I expected to run into my high school sweetheart. The one who got away. The one who broke my heart.
I could toss the busted doorknob in my hand at him, but I’d prefer to get the heck away. Because twenty years later, Knox Sylver isn’t a teenage boy anymore but a broad-shouldered, thick scruff man with eyes that still look at me like I’m the only person in the room.
As a newly divorced mother of two teenagers, it’s been a long time since anyone sees me. And Knox is definitely watching.
Unfortunately, he made choices in the past and I wasn’t one of them.
According to him, that is ancient history.
Also, according to him, it’s never too late for a second chance. He’s out to prove he’s solid and stable, having returned to our small hometown, in a better place after a career in the military. He’s a local hero as a fireman and he wants to rekindle the flame between us.
I’m the one with decisions this round.
Do I stay where memories hurt? Or do I leave my past, and Knox, behind me again?
+ + +
From L.B. Dunbar comes an all-new small-town romance with a big family and the silver fox swoon one expects from her love over-40 romances.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2024
855 people are currently reading
1727 people want to read
About the author
L.B. Dunbar
92 books3,299 followersL.B. Dunbar loves sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns. If you enjoy older characters in your romance reads, including a hero with a little silver in his scruff and a heroine rediscovering her worth, then welcome to romance for those over 40. L.B. Dunbar’s signature works include women and men in their prime taking another turn at love and happily ever after. She’s a USA TODAY Bestseller as well as #1 Bestseller on Amazon in Later in Life Romance with her Sterling Falls, Lakeside Cottage, and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
January 26, 2024
skipped a lot
This was so wishy washy.
Both main characters kept going back and forth their feelings and reminiscences that it got repetitive and annoying af. I skipped like a whole chunk and it didn’t feel like i missed anything important.🙄
This was so wishy washy.
Both main characters kept going back and forth their feelings and reminiscences that it got repetitive and annoying af. I skipped like a whole chunk and it didn’t feel like i missed anything important.🙄
April 15, 2024
🎧🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW🎧🎧
I’ve never really been disappointed in an LB Dunbar story and as a matter of fact, she’s one of the very few authors I go-to when I’m in the mood to read a later in life romance because she always delivers!
From the very beginning, I got such a good vibe from the story that I didn’t get very far before I stopped listening and downloaded Sterling Heat to listen to first because I didn’t want to miss out on anything in the series! I KNOW, I’m weird like that! So far, Sterling Falls is #winning for me!!
Sterling Brick is not what I would consider an angst-driven story, even with the shattered past circumstance, but it carried a whole lot of emotion, imo. I love these types of stories so much because I can feel the story without being weighed down with angst and it becoming a complete #cryfest! Knox & Halle had fabulous banter and incredibly great chemistry and the narration by Stella Hunter and Patrick Zeller brought the story to life and made me feel like I was a part of the story, like a bystander. It was a really great experience all around.
When a story is written as well as this one was and the narrators flawlessly bring the story to life, it makes for an out standing experience. A++ for both the story itself and the narration!
ALC provided by Home Cooked Books for an honest review
I’ve never really been disappointed in an LB Dunbar story and as a matter of fact, she’s one of the very few authors I go-to when I’m in the mood to read a later in life romance because she always delivers!
From the very beginning, I got such a good vibe from the story that I didn’t get very far before I stopped listening and downloaded Sterling Heat to listen to first because I didn’t want to miss out on anything in the series! I KNOW, I’m weird like that! So far, Sterling Falls is #winning for me!!
Sterling Brick is not what I would consider an angst-driven story, even with the shattered past circumstance, but it carried a whole lot of emotion, imo. I love these types of stories so much because I can feel the story without being weighed down with angst and it becoming a complete #cryfest! Knox & Halle had fabulous banter and incredibly great chemistry and the narration by Stella Hunter and Patrick Zeller brought the story to life and made me feel like I was a part of the story, like a bystander. It was a really great experience all around.
When a story is written as well as this one was and the narrators flawlessly bring the story to life, it makes for an out standing experience. A++ for both the story itself and the narration!
ALC provided by Home Cooked Books for an honest review
February 26, 2024
Great second chance story!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tripe: second chance
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Wonderfully written story about second chances and starting over with teens and all it entails. Very emotional and moving. The two MCs definitely deserved their chance together and you can't help but pull for them. Can't wait for the rest of the books in the series!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tripe: second chance
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Wonderfully written story about second chances and starting over with teens and all it entails. Very emotional and moving. The two MCs definitely deserved their chance together and you can't help but pull for them. Can't wait for the rest of the books in the series!
January 25, 2024
Heartwarming, gorgeous and sexy!
"We were never over. We were on pause."
Halle Reynolds has returned to Sterling Falls with her two kids, following her divorce and the death of her mother. She's back in the small town to do up the old family house and then move on. She didn't count on her childhood sweetheart bulldozing his way back into her life - and heart- again. Knox 'Brick' Sylver has been waiting twenty years for a second chance with the the woman he has always loved, and he's not about to give up this golden opportunity. However, he has his work cut out for him as Halle needs to forgive him for the past, as well as decide on her future.
"My heart hammers, trapped in a rib cage too tight to contain all the feelings I have for her. My sorrow. My regret. My love."
Gosh! This story really grabbed my heart! Halle was a brilliant mother. She was strong, loving and fair. I liked how she handled her ex. Her heart was vulnerable which made her doubt herself and the future, where Knox was concerned, but I was thrilled that she grabbed for her happiness. Knox was a swoonfest! He was intuitive, thoughtful and seemed to know the right things to say to Halle and to her kids. And, let's not forget the sizzling chemistry between them. They were fire! Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
"We were never over. We were on pause."
Halle Reynolds has returned to Sterling Falls with her two kids, following her divorce and the death of her mother. She's back in the small town to do up the old family house and then move on. She didn't count on her childhood sweetheart bulldozing his way back into her life - and heart- again. Knox 'Brick' Sylver has been waiting twenty years for a second chance with the the woman he has always loved, and he's not about to give up this golden opportunity. However, he has his work cut out for him as Halle needs to forgive him for the past, as well as decide on her future.
"My heart hammers, trapped in a rib cage too tight to contain all the feelings I have for her. My sorrow. My regret. My love."
Gosh! This story really grabbed my heart! Halle was a brilliant mother. She was strong, loving and fair. I liked how she handled her ex. Her heart was vulnerable which made her doubt herself and the future, where Knox was concerned, but I was thrilled that she grabbed for her happiness. Knox was a swoonfest! He was intuitive, thoughtful and seemed to know the right things to say to Halle and to her kids. And, let's not forget the sizzling chemistry between them. They were fire! Can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
April 4, 2024
(audiobook) It wasn’t bad at all, but I felt the author tried to put too many things in her book.
Halle as a divorced mother of two teenagers coming back to her childhood home for her mother’s funeral: great. Did she need to have such a troubled childhood? An aborted athlete career? Getting back with her highschool sweetheart who’s become a firefighter: double yes. But he’s also an ex-soldier with some trauma, plus some more family troubles? It was all a bit too much. And except making the characters extra sad so they need each other, and adding a couple of heavy conversations between them, it didn’t have much purpose.
Too bad, because it was nice to see Knox seducing Halle again and showing her what they could be. I loved that he was there for her, in many ways. I’m usually not a fan of second chance romances where the characters are supposed to have loved each other all that time while never contacting each other. Here, we have Halle who’s moved on, made a life, a family–though Knox was always there at the back of her mind–and Knox who’s realized he’d made mistakes and just let her go so she could be happy. It worked in my opinion.
The ex-husband using the kids to control his ex-wife is kind of cliché, but I liked that the author focuses more on what it does on the mother’s relationship with her kids. The impact of the parents’ decisions on them. And the choices Halle has to make for their happiness.
The narration was okay. Both narrators are quite talented, but I didn’t feel their voices and style meshed well together. Kind of like they weren’t working on the same book. Which is disappointing as they still nailed their character: Knox’s supportive stance and Halle’s closed walls.
Quickie
- Series: Sterling Falls #2 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #second chance romance #older couple #single mother #ex military #firefighter #divorce feud
- Triggers: past death, past emotional abuse, past parental abuse, mention of skating accident, cheating, mention of miscarriage, mention of suicide
- Main couple: Halle Reynolds & Knox Sylver
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the mother’s dilemma was spot on
- – too many things, a book isn’t a pot-luck
Halle as a divorced mother of two teenagers coming back to her childhood home for her mother’s funeral: great. Did she need to have such a troubled childhood? An aborted athlete career? Getting back with her highschool sweetheart who’s become a firefighter: double yes. But he’s also an ex-soldier with some trauma, plus some more family troubles? It was all a bit too much. And except making the characters extra sad so they need each other, and adding a couple of heavy conversations between them, it didn’t have much purpose.
Too bad, because it was nice to see Knox seducing Halle again and showing her what they could be. I loved that he was there for her, in many ways. I’m usually not a fan of second chance romances where the characters are supposed to have loved each other all that time while never contacting each other. Here, we have Halle who’s moved on, made a life, a family–though Knox was always there at the back of her mind–and Knox who’s realized he’d made mistakes and just let her go so she could be happy. It worked in my opinion.
The ex-husband using the kids to control his ex-wife is kind of cliché, but I liked that the author focuses more on what it does on the mother’s relationship with her kids. The impact of the parents’ decisions on them. And the choices Halle has to make for their happiness.
The narration was okay. Both narrators are quite talented, but I didn’t feel their voices and style meshed well together. Kind of like they weren’t working on the same book. Which is disappointing as they still nailed their character: Knox’s supportive stance and Halle’s closed walls.
Quickie
- Series: Sterling Falls #2 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #second chance romance #older couple #single mother #ex military #firefighter #divorce feud
- Triggers: past death, past emotional abuse, past parental abuse, mention of skating accident, cheating, mention of miscarriage, mention of suicide
- Main couple: Halle Reynolds & Knox Sylver
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the mother’s dilemma was spot on
- – too many things, a book isn’t a pot-luck
January 19, 2026
(I received an ARC for this book)
a more detailed list of trigger warnings will be at the bottom of this review, to avoid spoilers
loss of loved ones (death detailed on page), grief, child abuse by a parent, suicide, alcoholism, discussions of arson and spousal abuse
I feel like this is one of those books that because I related to it in some ways, I’m having a hard time separating my feelings towards the characters because of it. So I’ll leave that out of my review! After twenty years apart, Halle and Knox’s lives intersect again. Her life is a mess, and he doesn’t even care. All Knox cares about is proving they weren’t over all those years ago. I loved getting the glimpses of the feisty side of Halle, and so did Knox! Halle has lost herself along her Mother journey. She’s become a shadow that no one considers. Know hires himself for the job of making sure Halle feels seen, appreciated, and loved. No matter the distance she tries to put between them to protect herself. Over and over again, they both had to consider if love was enough. For Knox, that was always an easy yes, but Halle had a harder time coming to that decision. And it was heartbreaking waiting for her to figure it out.
Sprint: 62
sweetheart: 24
My Favorite Quotes:
• “If you were wearing my ring, I’d be making damn certain you never took it off.”
• “Let me find you.”
• “There’d only been one special woman for me.”
• “I only wanted to be with you.”
• “I want to feel you dripping on my c!ck, drenching me.”
• “Give me what’s always been mine.”
• “I touched you, sweetheart, and you touched me. And it was everything.”
• “You need to let go of the ghosts. Live for them. Or in spite of them. Or because of them. But not with them.”
• “Let me watch this time.”
• “I’m going to make damn sure I’m the last to explore this body, love it right, worship it, and never let you go again.”
• “That’s it, baby. Mark what’s always been yours.”
• “It’s been a long time since someone has loved me.”
• “Take what’s always been yours.”
• “I’m here for it. For you. For us. For them.”
• “You’ve never been just anything, Halle. You are my heart and my soul.”
• “I only ever wanted your heart.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
9/10 Second Chance
9/10 Single Parent
5/10 Slow Burn
8/10 Series
This is my review for Sterling Falls
This is my review for Sterling Streak
This is my review for Sterling Clay
This is my review for Sterling Fight
This is my review for Sterling Touch
This is my review for Sterling Stone
Trigger Warnings include:
the loss of loved ones involves two parents (one by suicide), as well as a misscarriage. all deaths discussed on page in detail.
a more detailed list of trigger warnings will be at the bottom of this review, to avoid spoilers
loss of loved ones (death detailed on page), grief, child abuse by a parent, suicide, alcoholism, discussions of arson and spousal abuse
I feel like this is one of those books that because I related to it in some ways, I’m having a hard time separating my feelings towards the characters because of it. So I’ll leave that out of my review! After twenty years apart, Halle and Knox’s lives intersect again. Her life is a mess, and he doesn’t even care. All Knox cares about is proving they weren’t over all those years ago. I loved getting the glimpses of the feisty side of Halle, and so did Knox! Halle has lost herself along her Mother journey. She’s become a shadow that no one considers. Know hires himself for the job of making sure Halle feels seen, appreciated, and loved. No matter the distance she tries to put between them to protect herself. Over and over again, they both had to consider if love was enough. For Knox, that was always an easy yes, but Halle had a harder time coming to that decision. And it was heartbreaking waiting for her to figure it out.
Sprint: 62
sweetheart: 24
My Favorite Quotes:
• “If you were wearing my ring, I’d be making damn certain you never took it off.”
• “Let me find you.”
• “There’d only been one special woman for me.”
• “I only wanted to be with you.”
• “I want to feel you dripping on my c!ck, drenching me.”
• “Give me what’s always been mine.”
• “I touched you, sweetheart, and you touched me. And it was everything.”
• “You need to let go of the ghosts. Live for them. Or in spite of them. Or because of them. But not with them.”
• “Let me watch this time.”
• “I’m going to make damn sure I’m the last to explore this body, love it right, worship it, and never let you go again.”
• “That’s it, baby. Mark what’s always been yours.”
• “It’s been a long time since someone has loved me.”
• “Take what’s always been yours.”
• “I’m here for it. For you. For us. For them.”
• “You’ve never been just anything, Halle. You are my heart and my soul.”
• “I only ever wanted your heart.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
9/10 Second Chance
9/10 Single Parent
5/10 Slow Burn
8/10 Series
This is my review for Sterling Falls
This is my review for Sterling Streak
This is my review for Sterling Clay
This is my review for Sterling Fight
This is my review for Sterling Touch
This is my review for Sterling Stone
Trigger Warnings include:
the loss of loved ones involves two parents (one by suicide), as well as a misscarriage. all deaths discussed on page in detail.
January 21, 2024
Oh my heart y’all, this one has so many elements I love in a top romance read! Small Town? Check. Seasoned romance? Double check. Single parent? You bet. Second chance? Yes, please. Hero determined to get his second chance with the one who got away? Heck to the yeah!
I’m already completely in love with this series, the town of Sterling Falls, and the Sylver siblings. This time, Knox gets another chance with his high school sweetheart, the girl he walked away from all those years ago. In his defense, he had valid reasons, in his teen-age way of thinking. Now he's retired from the Air Force, back home working for the family feed and seed company and as a volunteer fireman, and Halle Reynolds is back in town for the foreseeable future.
Halle never planned on returning to Sterling Falls, WV. She moved to the city, met a man, started a family, eventually got betrayed and then divorced. After her mother's death, she takes her two children to Sterling Falls for the summer to settle her mother's estate and get her house ready to sell. Too bad the only company in town that does landscaping is run by her high school boyfriend's family.
Once upon a time, Knox and Halle were young and in love until life happened. Now there are lots of old hurts to heal and ghosts to lay to rest. While it's a fun, steamy second chance, there's a lot of pain to be dealt with and trust to be rebuilt. I understand Halle's reservations, and I love that Knox handles things carefully but, must of all, he never gives up on Halle. Heartfelt, entertaining, and relatable, you won’t want to miss this phenomenal, seasoned, second-chance romance!
I’m already completely in love with this series, the town of Sterling Falls, and the Sylver siblings. This time, Knox gets another chance with his high school sweetheart, the girl he walked away from all those years ago. In his defense, he had valid reasons, in his teen-age way of thinking. Now he's retired from the Air Force, back home working for the family feed and seed company and as a volunteer fireman, and Halle Reynolds is back in town for the foreseeable future.
Halle never planned on returning to Sterling Falls, WV. She moved to the city, met a man, started a family, eventually got betrayed and then divorced. After her mother's death, she takes her two children to Sterling Falls for the summer to settle her mother's estate and get her house ready to sell. Too bad the only company in town that does landscaping is run by her high school boyfriend's family.
Once upon a time, Knox and Halle were young and in love until life happened. Now there are lots of old hurts to heal and ghosts to lay to rest. While it's a fun, steamy second chance, there's a lot of pain to be dealt with and trust to be rebuilt. I understand Halle's reservations, and I love that Knox handles things carefully but, must of all, he never gives up on Halle. Heartfelt, entertaining, and relatable, you won’t want to miss this phenomenal, seasoned, second-chance romance!
April 4, 2024
3.7 stars
This book had the potential to be a five star read for me. The first half of the book totally engaged me and I was turning pages at a good speed. Unfortunately, the second half of the book became monotonous. Over and over with the same hot and cold behavior from the heroine. I understood her struggles, but just reading about them over and over took from my original enjoyment of this book. Overall, it had an okay ending. While I hoped it could’ve been a little more exciting. I was OK with it. Since I’m invested in the characters, I’m going to read the next book and see how that works out. I also have book one that was on my TBR for quite a while, and I didn’t even realize it. So I want to read that one as well. That said, the writing style in the book was good I had no problem with that. It was just the repetitive nature of the story. I think the book could’ve been 50 to 75 pages less.
This book had the potential to be a five star read for me. The first half of the book totally engaged me and I was turning pages at a good speed. Unfortunately, the second half of the book became monotonous. Over and over with the same hot and cold behavior from the heroine. I understood her struggles, but just reading about them over and over took from my original enjoyment of this book. Overall, it had an okay ending. While I hoped it could’ve been a little more exciting. I was OK with it. Since I’m invested in the characters, I’m going to read the next book and see how that works out. I also have book one that was on my TBR for quite a while, and I didn’t even realize it. So I want to read that one as well. That said, the writing style in the book was good I had no problem with that. It was just the repetitive nature of the story. I think the book could’ve been 50 to 75 pages less.
April 3, 2024
This was an emotional slow burn second chance romance. It was full of past memories, broken hearts, hidden truths & guilt.
Both Hailey & Nash have been through a lot in the years since they were high school sweethearts, they each have things they need to heal from and forgive themselves for, they also have obstacles of the present they have to overcome.
This was emotional and frustrating and angsty.
Stella Hunter & Patrick Zeller both brought so much emotion to this story.
Both Hailey & Nash have been through a lot in the years since they were high school sweethearts, they each have things they need to heal from and forgive themselves for, they also have obstacles of the present they have to overcome.
This was emotional and frustrating and angsty.
Stella Hunter & Patrick Zeller both brought so much emotion to this story.
January 27, 2024
4.5 Stars
This is the second book in the series and the next Sylver sibling to get their story. This book is filled with so much feels and emotion. Knox and Halle have one heck of a history. They were high school sweethearts and life was a little too tough at the time. Now many years later Halle is back in sterling Falls and this time Knox won't let her go a second time. He will pull out all the stops to prove to Halle and her children he is worth a second chance. They have some healing to do from their pasts, but you can't deny these two have feelings still for one another and they still have that burning hot chemistry. They have a love worth fighting for. Halle's life is turned upside down by divorce and her mother's death. She has no clue what is instore for her and what path to take, but she may just find it unexpectedly in Sterling Falls. I really liked Knox's interactions with Halle's children. He shows them he truly pays attention and he leads with his heart. Both backstories hit me right in the heart and my heart bled for them. They haven't had it easy, but fate is giving them a second chance at something so beautiful. I loved catching up with Sebastian and his family. This book made me fall for the Sylver family a little more.
This is the second book in the series and the next Sylver sibling to get their story. This book is filled with so much feels and emotion. Knox and Halle have one heck of a history. They were high school sweethearts and life was a little too tough at the time. Now many years later Halle is back in sterling Falls and this time Knox won't let her go a second time. He will pull out all the stops to prove to Halle and her children he is worth a second chance. They have some healing to do from their pasts, but you can't deny these two have feelings still for one another and they still have that burning hot chemistry. They have a love worth fighting for. Halle's life is turned upside down by divorce and her mother's death. She has no clue what is instore for her and what path to take, but she may just find it unexpectedly in Sterling Falls. I really liked Knox's interactions with Halle's children. He shows them he truly pays attention and he leads with his heart. Both backstories hit me right in the heart and my heart bled for them. They haven't had it easy, but fate is giving them a second chance at something so beautiful. I loved catching up with Sebastian and his family. This book made me fall for the Sylver family a little more.
January 9, 2024
Wow! This story was everything and then some! LB Dunbar nailed these characters, gave them the perfect story and delivered! You will swoon and fall instantly in love with Brick and Halle! 5 Sterling Falls stars for this one!
Knox, or Brick, his call name from his time in the military, knows that his one true love Halle is back in town for her mothers funeral. He wants nothing more than to see her, so he goes. She's just as beautiful as he remembered, and he wants to talk to her, and he will. When the opportunity comes to go to the house to give her an estimate, he jumps on it, and so his mission begins to win her back, he let her go once, now that she's divorced, he will stop at nothing to get her back!
Halle, along with her two kids, are staying at her mothers house to get it ready to sell. When Brick comes around to help her out, she needs to stay strong, after all, he destroyed her heart when he left before. Little by little her defenses are dropping when he's around, but she needs to stay strong.
This story has it all, heart break, second chances and just pure love! Don't miss out on this one, grab it asap!
Knox, or Brick, his call name from his time in the military, knows that his one true love Halle is back in town for her mothers funeral. He wants nothing more than to see her, so he goes. She's just as beautiful as he remembered, and he wants to talk to her, and he will. When the opportunity comes to go to the house to give her an estimate, he jumps on it, and so his mission begins to win her back, he let her go once, now that she's divorced, he will stop at nothing to get her back!
Halle, along with her two kids, are staying at her mothers house to get it ready to sell. When Brick comes around to help her out, she needs to stay strong, after all, he destroyed her heart when he left before. Little by little her defenses are dropping when he's around, but she needs to stay strong.
This story has it all, heart break, second chances and just pure love! Don't miss out on this one, grab it asap!
January 25, 2024
A lovely story in which past actions have a long-lasting impact on life. Halle and Knox experienced an intense young love, derailed by outside events and circumstances and decisions made under intense emotional stress. I loved how past and present was woven together to bring light and understanding to current feelings. Halle has been deeply wounded and is not prepared to trust how she still feels. But those feelings ran deep.
Halle's life is at a turning point and her decisions revolve around her focus on her two beautiful children, Violet and Tim, so much of which is so relatable. Knox is undaunted by the challenge he faces and I loved both his sensitivity and determination! How their relationship evolves makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read. 💖💖💖💖💖
Halle's life is at a turning point and her decisions revolve around her focus on her two beautiful children, Violet and Tim, so much of which is so relatable. Knox is undaunted by the challenge he faces and I loved both his sensitivity and determination! How their relationship evolves makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read. 💖💖💖💖💖
April 2, 2024
Genre: small town / second chance
Format: Audiobook 🎧
Narrators: Stella Hunter & Patrick Zeller #A.L.C
POV: dual
⭐: 3.75
🎤: 4.5
🌶️: 3.5
Feels: 🥹
(Want to understand my rating scale? Check out the pinned post on my profile!)
This book was full of very real emotions, from when they were in puppy-love at 16, to when they go through some very real stuff only to reconnect as adults.
I appreciated that these characters were adults with real issues and real experiences, and that the book seemed to centre just as much on their healing journey as it did their relationship. Being an emotional ride, this wasn’t the spiciest number ever, but it certainly delivered when it counted. Brick’s appreciation for her ‘mum body’ really endeared me to his character, knowing that is something so many women are self-concious about.
The narration quality was top-notch, with both actors nailing their performance. There was never any confusion as to which character they were playing, the voices were all very distinct. The emotions they both managed to convey was gorgeous, it really brought me along for the ride and made me fall in love right along with them. Patrick Zeller was a new-to-me narrator, and I really enjoyed listening to his voice. He has that popular, deep and gravelly quality and at a really interesting tone to his voice that made it really rich and inviting. The way he changes his volume, pitch, and pace during emotional (and spicy) scenes was just -chefs kiss- ! I’ve never been disappointed by Stella, and this was no exception. She always delivers the amazing
“I’d climb mountains and bring her the sea to replenish her.” - Brick (because she was thirsty! -swoon-)
Special thanks to Home Cooked Books for providing this copy.
**These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Format: Audiobook 🎧
Narrators: Stella Hunter & Patrick Zeller #A.L.C
POV: dual
⭐: 3.75
🎤: 4.5
🌶️: 3.5
Feels: 🥹
(Want to understand my rating scale? Check out the pinned post on my profile!)
This book was full of very real emotions, from when they were in puppy-love at 16, to when they go through some very real stuff only to reconnect as adults.
I appreciated that these characters were adults with real issues and real experiences, and that the book seemed to centre just as much on their healing journey as it did their relationship. Being an emotional ride, this wasn’t the spiciest number ever, but it certainly delivered when it counted. Brick’s appreciation for her ‘mum body’ really endeared me to his character, knowing that is something so many women are self-concious about.
The narration quality was top-notch, with both actors nailing their performance. There was never any confusion as to which character they were playing, the voices were all very distinct. The emotions they both managed to convey was gorgeous, it really brought me along for the ride and made me fall in love right along with them. Patrick Zeller was a new-to-me narrator, and I really enjoyed listening to his voice. He has that popular, deep and gravelly quality and at a really interesting tone to his voice that made it really rich and inviting. The way he changes his volume, pitch, and pace during emotional (and spicy) scenes was just -chefs kiss- ! I’ve never been disappointed by Stella, and this was no exception. She always delivers the amazing
“I’d climb mountains and bring her the sea to replenish her.” - Brick (because she was thirsty! -swoon-)
Special thanks to Home Cooked Books for providing this copy.
**These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
April 1, 2024
This book was a solid full story. I felt like there really was depth and personal discovery for each MC character.
Halle is back in her small town because her mother passed and since she’s recently divorced, she decided to live in her mother’s house for the summer. Not having the greatest memories in the small town she wants to hurry up and get the house cleaned out to sell.
Spotting Knox, her high school sweetheart that shattered her heart when he left to enroll in the air force, she is not ready to face him. Until she finds herself locked in the bathroom during her Mother’s funeral reception with Know. He helps her get out. Knowing this is the start of him trying to win Halle back.
Since she’s getting her mother’s house cleaned up, she needs to hire a landscaping team to clean up the yard. Knox shows up to do the job since his family owns the business.
Little by little, Knox explains himself to Halle and Halle slowly opens her heart back to Knox. Loved that the characters were older and that communication was key to their new chance for life! I listened to this on audio and the narrators voices were perfect as they were more mature and really sold the characters!
Tropes:
Single Mom
Second Chance
Small Town
Groveling
Slow Burn
Tattoo for Her
April 21, 2024
#SterlingBrick is #2 of the #SterlingFallsseries by #LBDunbar and can definitely be read as a standalone.
Halle, newly divorced with two kids, returns to Stirling Falls for her mother's funeral where she sees Knox, who was the love of her life before he decided to go to the navy 20 years ago, and all the memories come flooding back!
After 20 years of lost dreams on both their parts, there is a lot to unpack, but once this happens, the story became somewhat samey and a bit boring, unfortunately.
Knox was lovely, and it was a delight to see the relationships he builds with her kids, Violet (a stroppy teen) and Tim, who was such a cutie. I would, however, have liked to learn more about her strange relationship with her mother as that was skimmed over, although crucial to the story.
The #dualnarration was performed beautifully by #PatrickZeller and #StellaHunter
Thank you #HomeCookedBooks for providing me with a copy of this book to listen to, and I confirm all opinions are my own.
Halle, newly divorced with two kids, returns to Stirling Falls for her mother's funeral where she sees Knox, who was the love of her life before he decided to go to the navy 20 years ago, and all the memories come flooding back!
After 20 years of lost dreams on both their parts, there is a lot to unpack, but once this happens, the story became somewhat samey and a bit boring, unfortunately.
Knox was lovely, and it was a delight to see the relationships he builds with her kids, Violet (a stroppy teen) and Tim, who was such a cutie. I would, however, have liked to learn more about her strange relationship with her mother as that was skimmed over, although crucial to the story.
The #dualnarration was performed beautifully by #PatrickZeller and #StellaHunter
Thank you #HomeCookedBooks for providing me with a copy of this book to listen to, and I confirm all opinions are my own.
January 30, 2024
LOVED IT! This may be LB's best one yet. I definitely feel like she upped her game to a new level of steam and spice! This was the perfect blend second chance, divorced, ex-drama, small-town love story!
Halle returns home broken. Best way to put it. She is burying a mother that didn't leave behind the best memories, freshly divorced to a cheating jerk, and operating in survival mode for herself & kids. As with any major life altering changes, the kids are priority and she is trying her best to keep them whole and healing.
Knox is the first love, the one that left, broke her heart and didn't come back to mend all the pieces. Little did Halle know the extent of Knox's home life and why he felt the need to let her go at the end of high school. He has grown into an outstanding man and community member, he knows what he wants, and he sets his sights on Halle and kids.
I loved this story for the healing that took place, in all of the characters. It wasn't a big swoon where everyone is caught up in sex and lust. LB was spot on in the healing that all characters needed and wrote it all (Halle, Knox, kids, other family members on the periphery). Within that writing, she did weave so series spice, but it is second to the character development and healing. Bravo for another outstanding book, Ms. Dunbar! @theoriginialmrsp
Halle returns home broken. Best way to put it. She is burying a mother that didn't leave behind the best memories, freshly divorced to a cheating jerk, and operating in survival mode for herself & kids. As with any major life altering changes, the kids are priority and she is trying her best to keep them whole and healing.
Knox is the first love, the one that left, broke her heart and didn't come back to mend all the pieces. Little did Halle know the extent of Knox's home life and why he felt the need to let her go at the end of high school. He has grown into an outstanding man and community member, he knows what he wants, and he sets his sights on Halle and kids.
I loved this story for the healing that took place, in all of the characters. It wasn't a big swoon where everyone is caught up in sex and lust. LB was spot on in the healing that all characters needed and wrote it all (Halle, Knox, kids, other family members on the periphery). Within that writing, she did weave so series spice, but it is second to the character development and healing. Bravo for another outstanding book, Ms. Dunbar! @theoriginialmrsp
January 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️.5
Wow! This story hit me in all the feels! Knox and Halle were high school sweethearts and thought that their life was all planned out until Knox hurt Halle so deeply that she barely recovered. Knox had his reasons to end things with Halle, but not without remorse or regret. There were things in his home life that Halle knew nothing about, and that made Knox see himself in such a poor light and he didn’t want to be the person who brought Halle down so she couldn’t pursue her dreams. Almost twenty years later, Knox returns to his hometown of Sterling Falls, where he integrates himself back into civilian life after this military career. What he doesn’t expect is to also see Halle back in their hometown only a little after he returned. He is as drawn to her as ever and knows that now is his chance to right his wrongs. Halle, on the other hand, still holds a deep sadness about what Knox did to her all those years ago. She is a recent divorcee and has returned to her hometown after her mother passes away. Halle is determined to sell the house and leave, but Knox has other plans. He tries like heck to prove that he isn’t the man he was all those years ago and that he will do anything this time around to prove his love for her. Deep down, Halle knows she’s never lost the love she had for Knox but isn’t quite ready for him again either. Halle soon realizes that she must stop rehashing the past and give Knox the second chance he’s proven he deserves. The chemistry and passion between these two was so magical, and you could feel the love they had for each other throughout the pages. Their story was angsty and sometimes messy, and it took Halle a while to give Knox her heart back. Knox treated Halle and her kids like they were his own family, and it was so adorable! Great read!
🌶️🌶️.5
Wow! This story hit me in all the feels! Knox and Halle were high school sweethearts and thought that their life was all planned out until Knox hurt Halle so deeply that she barely recovered. Knox had his reasons to end things with Halle, but not without remorse or regret. There were things in his home life that Halle knew nothing about, and that made Knox see himself in such a poor light and he didn’t want to be the person who brought Halle down so she couldn’t pursue her dreams. Almost twenty years later, Knox returns to his hometown of Sterling Falls, where he integrates himself back into civilian life after this military career. What he doesn’t expect is to also see Halle back in their hometown only a little after he returned. He is as drawn to her as ever and knows that now is his chance to right his wrongs. Halle, on the other hand, still holds a deep sadness about what Knox did to her all those years ago. She is a recent divorcee and has returned to her hometown after her mother passes away. Halle is determined to sell the house and leave, but Knox has other plans. He tries like heck to prove that he isn’t the man he was all those years ago and that he will do anything this time around to prove his love for her. Deep down, Halle knows she’s never lost the love she had for Knox but isn’t quite ready for him again either. Halle soon realizes that she must stop rehashing the past and give Knox the second chance he’s proven he deserves. The chemistry and passion between these two was so magical, and you could feel the love they had for each other throughout the pages. Their story was angsty and sometimes messy, and it took Halle a while to give Knox her heart back. Knox treated Halle and her kids like they were his own family, and it was so adorable! Great read!
February 2, 2024
Sterling Brick was a sweet emotional second chance romance. I really enjoyed this book, it was a great read. Both characters went through so much emotional turmoil throughout their lives, so the content was very heavy at times. Knox knew that once the opportunity came to have Halle back in his life, he wasn’t going to waste the opportunity. Fresh off of divorcing her husband, Halle moves back to the house her mother left her after she passed away. Once there, her first love, Knox is relentless to try and get her back. He regrets ever letting her go, but understands that they cannot dwell on decisions made when they were both children and full of so much pain. I appreciated the level of healing for both the MMC and the FMC. I will be be checking out the Sterling Falls series!
January 25, 2024
“Don’t you remember anything?”
“I haven’t forgotten a thing, baby.”
“Sterling Brick" by L. B. Dunbar is the second installment in the Sterling Fall series, unraveling the story of Knox Sullivan and Halle Reynolds. Former high school sweethearts, they took divergent paths due to issues and different life plans. After two decades, circumstances bring them back to Sterling Falls, offering a second chance at love.
Tropes:
- Small-town Romance
- Reunited high-school sweethearts
- Second chance
- Single mom-Newly divorced
- Former military MMC
- Fireman/Bricklayer
- She grump-sunshine
- Spicy
4⭐️
2.5 🌶️
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, a compelling story of second chances with characters approaching their forties. The slow-burn romance involves Knox earning Halle's trust as he fulfills promises made two decades ago while working on her mother's house. It takes time for them to confront and forgive the past, paving the way for a shared future.
“What kind of time are we talking about?”
“Forever.”
The romance is well-crafted, portraying Halle's post-divorce journey of self-discovery and Knox's opportunity to fulfill promises. The back-and-forth in Halle's desires adds depth to the plot, reflecting her need to rediscover herself outside the roles of a wife and mother. Knox brings a possessive and filthy twist to their story. 😏🌶️
“Baby, you’re sizzling for me.”
Ultimately, they resolve their unfinished business, and Halle chooses happiness with Knox in Sterling Falls.
The book's message about finding blessings after feeling broken resonates powerfully, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and appreciating life's remaining blessings.
“She was my life-saving raft in a sea of uncertainty.”
For those seeking a second chance romance with a mature couple, this series is worth exploring.
📍Special thanks to Wordsmithpublicity & L. B. Dunbar for the ARC in exchange of my honest opinion.
“I haven’t forgotten a thing, baby.”
“Sterling Brick" by L. B. Dunbar is the second installment in the Sterling Fall series, unraveling the story of Knox Sullivan and Halle Reynolds. Former high school sweethearts, they took divergent paths due to issues and different life plans. After two decades, circumstances bring them back to Sterling Falls, offering a second chance at love.
Tropes:
- Small-town Romance
- Reunited high-school sweethearts
- Second chance
- Single mom-Newly divorced
- Former military MMC
- Fireman/Bricklayer
- She grump-sunshine
- Spicy
4⭐️
2.5 🌶️
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, a compelling story of second chances with characters approaching their forties. The slow-burn romance involves Knox earning Halle's trust as he fulfills promises made two decades ago while working on her mother's house. It takes time for them to confront and forgive the past, paving the way for a shared future.
“What kind of time are we talking about?”
“Forever.”
The romance is well-crafted, portraying Halle's post-divorce journey of self-discovery and Knox's opportunity to fulfill promises. The back-and-forth in Halle's desires adds depth to the plot, reflecting her need to rediscover herself outside the roles of a wife and mother. Knox brings a possessive and filthy twist to their story. 😏🌶️
“Baby, you’re sizzling for me.”
Ultimately, they resolve their unfinished business, and Halle chooses happiness with Knox in Sterling Falls.
The book's message about finding blessings after feeling broken resonates powerfully, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and appreciating life's remaining blessings.
“She was my life-saving raft in a sea of uncertainty.”
For those seeking a second chance romance with a mature couple, this series is worth exploring.
📍Special thanks to Wordsmithpublicity & L. B. Dunbar for the ARC in exchange of my honest opinion.
January 28, 2024
Sterling Brick (ARC review)
Thank you to Wordsmith Publicity for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
[CHECK TW]
This book was good. I enjoyed it a lot. I loved Knox and Halle. They truly were made for each other. Their need for each other was shown throughout the book, and I couldn't contain my excitement in every moment they had. Halle was such an incredible character that finally needed to find herself and what she really wanted. I admired her love for her children and how much she did for them. Her bond with them was absolutely beautiful, and I loved seeing her connect again with her teenage daughter. Her little boy was such a funny and cute little dude. Knox fitted perfectly in their little family. You could see how much he cared and loved them. Their moments together were so special to me. Knox may have had a cold exterior, but her truly had a heart of gold. He would do anything for Halle and her family. Their steamy moments had me on my knees, and I loved each time they spent together either as a couple or a family. The epilogue was so perfect for them!
Book by: L.B Dunbar
Tropes:
• Small town romance
• Second chance
• Single parent
• High school sweethearts
My rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2,5/5 🔥
Thank you to Wordsmith Publicity for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
[CHECK TW]
This book was good. I enjoyed it a lot. I loved Knox and Halle. They truly were made for each other. Their need for each other was shown throughout the book, and I couldn't contain my excitement in every moment they had. Halle was such an incredible character that finally needed to find herself and what she really wanted. I admired her love for her children and how much she did for them. Her bond with them was absolutely beautiful, and I loved seeing her connect again with her teenage daughter. Her little boy was such a funny and cute little dude. Knox fitted perfectly in their little family. You could see how much he cared and loved them. Their moments together were so special to me. Knox may have had a cold exterior, but her truly had a heart of gold. He would do anything for Halle and her family. Their steamy moments had me on my knees, and I loved each time they spent together either as a couple or a family. The epilogue was so perfect for them!
Book by: L.B Dunbar
Tropes:
• Small town romance
• Second chance
• Single parent
• High school sweethearts
My rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 2,5/5 🔥
January 26, 2024
Sterling Brick is the second book in the Sterling Falls series, and this time Knox will find his HEA.
After twenty years, and many regrets about wrong decisions, Knox and Halle meet again, just the pace is a bit unfortunate. It is in the bathroom at her mother’s funeral.
Twenty years ago, Knox left Sterling Falls to join the military and he left Halle behind, thinking it was for the best. Now, she’s newly divorced and back in Sterling Falls to figure out the future for her and her two children.
I loved how Knox was trying to win her trust again from the beginning. He kept saying and doing things so that she would believe that he was in this for real this time. Halle has a hard time trusting again, Knox has left her in the past and then the issues with her ex-husband, I can really understand the doubts she keeps having.
But the chemistry between the two of them was always there, even when they were fighting, you could feel the sparks fly from the pages.
Tim and Violet, Halle’s children, they make the story complete. Both of them push Halle in different directions, and a mother’s heart will do anything for her children.
After twenty years, and many regrets about wrong decisions, Knox and Halle meet again, just the pace is a bit unfortunate. It is in the bathroom at her mother’s funeral.
Twenty years ago, Knox left Sterling Falls to join the military and he left Halle behind, thinking it was for the best. Now, she’s newly divorced and back in Sterling Falls to figure out the future for her and her two children.
I loved how Knox was trying to win her trust again from the beginning. He kept saying and doing things so that she would believe that he was in this for real this time. Halle has a hard time trusting again, Knox has left her in the past and then the issues with her ex-husband, I can really understand the doubts she keeps having.
But the chemistry between the two of them was always there, even when they were fighting, you could feel the sparks fly from the pages.
Tim and Violet, Halle’s children, they make the story complete. Both of them push Halle in different directions, and a mother’s heart will do anything for her children.
January 31, 2024
I LOVE this book. Knox as a leading man was that perfect imperfect character. He has lived a life full and complex life and when we meet him he dedicates himself to fixing his biggest mistake - getting Halle back When a man like Knox sets his sights on you, there is only one option. He is this quiet presence that inserts himself into her life and once there he uses acts of service and quality time to perfection. His backstory was heartbreaking and real. Although he may have made mistakes the author builds such a well rounded character that you root for him anyway.
Halle for her part was on the cusp of figuring out who she was outside of the shadow of her ex. To see her find her way, stand on her own, accept help when appropriate, and assert herself was encouraging and also felt authentic. Nothing comes easy to LB Dunbar's characters but when it comes together, it feels exactly right.
Both characters have a lot of growth, they rebuild trust with each other and themselves, and in Halle's case, she establishes her own identity. On top of that, Halle's kids are fun! Often author's struggle to handle kid dialogue or situations but these feel like they were crafted from experience and care.
Highly recommend for anyone who loves:
- second chance romance
- single parent
- seasoned romance
- small town
Read the trigger warnings but I promise the author handles them with extreme care.
Halle for her part was on the cusp of figuring out who she was outside of the shadow of her ex. To see her find her way, stand on her own, accept help when appropriate, and assert herself was encouraging and also felt authentic. Nothing comes easy to LB Dunbar's characters but when it comes together, it feels exactly right.
Both characters have a lot of growth, they rebuild trust with each other and themselves, and in Halle's case, she establishes her own identity. On top of that, Halle's kids are fun! Often author's struggle to handle kid dialogue or situations but these feel like they were crafted from experience and care.
Highly recommend for anyone who loves:
- second chance romance
- single parent
- seasoned romance
- small town
Read the trigger warnings but I promise the author handles them with extreme care.
January 27, 2024
What I enjoy about L.B. Dunbar’s books is they have older characters. They resonate with me more. Halle comes back to go to her mother’s funeral and sees her childhood love Knox also known as Brick. It’s been 20 years and the feelings are still there for her. Getting locked in the bathroom of the church with him wasn’t something she wanted to do as well. Knox came back for a second chance with Halle and man does he have his work cut out for him. Halle has walls up for many reasons and Knox knows it’s going to take a lot. The chemistry between these two were still there. I loved the growth Halle had after her divorce with her ex to stand up to him and deal with him. A strong woman. I would definitely recommend this book. This is the second book in the series but it can be read as a standalone.
I received this ARC through the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing this book, opinions are my own.
I received this ARC through the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing this book, opinions are my own.
January 28, 2024
Sprint for a Brick ♥️🍼✈️💙
A great second chance romance that truly makes you believe in the power of lasting love. Halle and Knox burned hot as high school sweethearts, but burned out when they faced a heartbreaking loss. Moving on with their lives without truly living, they reconnect after 20 years. But 20 years and a lifetime away from each other has changed so much.
Watching two people fall in love is beautiful.
Watching them fall in love twice is even better. It is not easy, and there is so much that looks like they will not make it for the second time. Time and patience brings them to a place where they can find what they once had, and make it even better.
There are some frustrating parts; putting kids before your own needs and those of your partner, and some stubbornness of not letting go of past hurts, but it makes the ending that much sweeter as they work toward a resolution that will work for everyone. This was a beautiful love story!
A great second chance romance that truly makes you believe in the power of lasting love. Halle and Knox burned hot as high school sweethearts, but burned out when they faced a heartbreaking loss. Moving on with their lives without truly living, they reconnect after 20 years. But 20 years and a lifetime away from each other has changed so much.
Watching two people fall in love is beautiful.
Watching them fall in love twice is even better. It is not easy, and there is so much that looks like they will not make it for the second time. Time and patience brings them to a place where they can find what they once had, and make it even better.
There are some frustrating parts; putting kids before your own needs and those of your partner, and some stubbornness of not letting go of past hurts, but it makes the ending that much sweeter as they work toward a resolution that will work for everyone. This was a beautiful love story!
January 28, 2024
second time around
Let’s that with this sexy man on the cover he is the definition of small town sexy silver fox.
“We were never over. We were on pause.” 😱
This line hits different as you read on. Halle returns to the small town she left more than 10 years go. Newly divorces and grieving her mother death she runs into the one person she couldn’t get over Knox. This was a great book was giving me lovers to enemies on Halle’s part to lovers. Knox had to work hard to show Halle he was not running away this time. I loved the pull these two had towards each other even after decades apart was so entertaining. Halle is a great FMC she is bouncing back from a ton of losses and is doing it all for the right reason. Knox steps up when he has to and that makes him a Daddy. The spice between these two delicious can’t wait to more.
Let’s that with this sexy man on the cover he is the definition of small town sexy silver fox.
“We were never over. We were on pause.” 😱
This line hits different as you read on. Halle returns to the small town she left more than 10 years go. Newly divorces and grieving her mother death she runs into the one person she couldn’t get over Knox. This was a great book was giving me lovers to enemies on Halle’s part to lovers. Knox had to work hard to show Halle he was not running away this time. I loved the pull these two had towards each other even after decades apart was so entertaining. Halle is a great FMC she is bouncing back from a ton of losses and is doing it all for the right reason. Knox steps up when he has to and that makes him a Daddy. The spice between these two delicious can’t wait to more.
March 28, 2024
4.5 Stars!
This was a cute second chance romance story with an older couple. Our couple here, Knox and Halle, both return home to their small-town after years of being away and away from each other. Knox, returns after he retires from the Navy. Halle returns after her divorce and to fix up her mother’s home in order to put it on the market. They haven’t seen each other in 20 years after Knox broke Halle’s heart. Now, having lived such full, yet separate lives, can they rekindle their love and get their second chance?
I really enjoyed Knox and Halle’s story. I wasn’t sure if the author could pull of a second-chance romance that occurs 20 years from their original romance. But I was pleasantly surprised. Their romance was believable, and I was rooting for them throughout. It was nice to see an older couple, in their 40s, after living their lives (Knox has had his career, Halle is now divorced with 2 teens), being able to finally pursue what they really want in life. I also enjoyed the small-town setting. Overall, the story was emotion-filled, with a little bit of heartbreak, that ends in a lovely HEA. Just soo cute!
Stella Hunter and Patrick Zeller did amazingly at the narrations. Their voices made the characters and the story even more believable. All the different emotions the characters went through throughout the story was portrayed very well. And, they helped bring the overall story to life.
I received a complimentary ALC from Home Cooked Books and all opinions are my own.
This was a cute second chance romance story with an older couple. Our couple here, Knox and Halle, both return home to their small-town after years of being away and away from each other. Knox, returns after he retires from the Navy. Halle returns after her divorce and to fix up her mother’s home in order to put it on the market. They haven’t seen each other in 20 years after Knox broke Halle’s heart. Now, having lived such full, yet separate lives, can they rekindle their love and get their second chance?
I really enjoyed Knox and Halle’s story. I wasn’t sure if the author could pull of a second-chance romance that occurs 20 years from their original romance. But I was pleasantly surprised. Their romance was believable, and I was rooting for them throughout. It was nice to see an older couple, in their 40s, after living their lives (Knox has had his career, Halle is now divorced with 2 teens), being able to finally pursue what they really want in life. I also enjoyed the small-town setting. Overall, the story was emotion-filled, with a little bit of heartbreak, that ends in a lovely HEA. Just soo cute!
Stella Hunter and Patrick Zeller did amazingly at the narrations. Their voices made the characters and the story even more believable. All the different emotions the characters went through throughout the story was portrayed very well. And, they helped bring the overall story to life.
I received a complimentary ALC from Home Cooked Books and all opinions are my own.
January 26, 2024
This is the second book of this series and it does not disappoint. Lots of emotions in this story... second chances do happen. HS sweethearts going on different paths. Halle believes this was her forever but Knox has demons that he hasn't conquered. He doesn't want to bring her down and stop her from accomplishing her dreams so he leaves to join the military. She is forced to move on after a couple devastating losses but does she really move on? Is Knox able to move on? not really. They both just go through the motions until years later when they end up back in their hometown. Halle is now a single Mom with two children that she cherishes. Knox is a single man who knows he wants Halle. She wants him but has other priorities. Will Knox be able to patiently wait for the love of his life to accept him again. Only time will tell. Great characters, great story, great series! Can't wait for the next.
January 28, 2024
Halle and Knox. High school sweethearts until he walked away. Now after a very long time Halle returns to her hometown for her mother’s funeral. It seems strange for her to be back. She is now a single mother with two kids and newly divorced. She sees Knox again and all her past memories come back. Some good and others not so good. She needs to find herself again. So many decisions to make with her children in mind and also herself. How can she feel so lost? Knox is coming on strong and it scares her and excites her too. She does not know what to do. All she does know is that when he is near she feels at home. What is up with that? Will Knox get through to her? What about his memories? Guess they both have a lot to get through.
January 25, 2024
This is the second book in the series. They can be read as standalone books. I haven’t read the first one and wasn’t lost or confused at all. Halle and Knox were high school sweethearts. Each other’s first loves but life took them in different directions. Now 20 years later they have reunited. Neither ever stopped loving the other. Knox sees this as his second chance and Halle fights what she is feeling. Halle is newly divorced and a mother of 2 kids. Knox is divorced as well and retired from the military. Both are starting a new chapter in their lives. Can they be together in this new chapter? There are things that Halle doesn’t know about from way back then. Knox is going to do whatever he can to show Halle he isn’t going anywhere this time. I really enjoyed this book. I really related to both characters. Halle feels like her life is falling down around her and she doesn’t know who she is anymore. Knox knows the feeling well. He wants to help her figure out who she is now and who she wants to be. The series is about Knox and his siblings. Each sibling has a book about them and how they connect with their person. I look forward to more books in this series and have added the first one to my TBR list. Fantastic job L.B. Dunbar. I love your books.
January 22, 2024
Sterling Brick as another fabulous story from author L. B. Dunbar. Her love-after-40 romances are always emotional and the characters are very relatable for me. Knox and Halle's story revived a lost-love that was meant to be but was paused for just a bit.
Knox has a heartbreaking past and his sacrifice gutted me. He and Halle had a bond that lasted a lifetime. It was so easy to see them falling right back into love, but 20 years of separation, anger and hurt over miscommunication, and new responsibilities make things a little complicated.
L. B. Dunbar delivered, once again, a story full of emotion, tears, and hope. These wonderful characters trying to figure out their next steps while navigating the new waters back in their hometown kept me glued to the pages. While Knox wants nothing more than to win back what was always his, Halle struggles to forgive and let herself have what has always been hers; what she's always wanted.
Their story is heartfelt and told beautifully. Knox melted my heart at every turn and I felt his pain as well. Halle had her own pain to overcome, and Knox was so supportive in every way. I can't wait for more of the Sterling brothers, and I hope to see more of Knox and Halle as well.
Knox has a heartbreaking past and his sacrifice gutted me. He and Halle had a bond that lasted a lifetime. It was so easy to see them falling right back into love, but 20 years of separation, anger and hurt over miscommunication, and new responsibilities make things a little complicated.
L. B. Dunbar delivered, once again, a story full of emotion, tears, and hope. These wonderful characters trying to figure out their next steps while navigating the new waters back in their hometown kept me glued to the pages. While Knox wants nothing more than to win back what was always his, Halle struggles to forgive and let herself have what has always been hers; what she's always wanted.
Their story is heartfelt and told beautifully. Knox melted my heart at every turn and I felt his pain as well. Halle had her own pain to overcome, and Knox was so supportive in every way. I can't wait for more of the Sterling brothers, and I hope to see more of Knox and Halle as well.
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