For Avery

Landen Acres #1

by Natalie Jess

Avery was never supposed to be his.

Jackson was the only person off-limits to her.

But desperate hearts risk everything and everyone for love.

Jackson Landen has spent years hiding his feelings for his best friend’s younger sister. His reputation for not being able to commit has never stopped the locals from getting in line. But no matter what he tries, he can’t seem to give his heart to anyone else.

If Chase ever found out he was in love with Avery, well, Chase would learn how to resurrect a body just so he could kill Jackson twice.

Avery Barnett has always known who her heart belongs to. It just happens to be the wrong person. Jackson Landen has never, not once, been able to love someone back, a fact that Chase reminds her of regularly.

She has tried dating other boys, but she knows there’s only one man for her. With a plan to win a date with Jackson at an auction, she’s ready to show him she’s not playing around.

Once they get their hands on each other, the time for holding back is done.

But the fallout could be more than they can handle.

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For Avery is the first novel in the Landen Acres series where each book focuses on one Landen brother’s spicy journey finding love.

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Westerns, Small Town Romance

295 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 17, 2023

Reviews

[Terri · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good start to the series! The story went at a fast pace and it was relatively low angst. I enjoyed Avery and Jackson’s characters and them together. Although I liked the steamy scenes, I did find myself wanting more from their relationship. Maybe see more of their past before they got together or spend more time with them being an actual couple. Another aspect I liked was the big families. I loved Jackson’s siblings and I can’t wait to see more of them. I liked Avery’s brother Chase even if he annoyed me at times. I think he took not wanting his best friend and sister together a wee bit too far at points. All in all this was a solid start to the series and I’ll definitely be checking out the next book.

*I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read If You Enjoy
🐎 Dual POV
🐎 Small-Town Cowboy Romance
🐎 No 3rd Act Break-Up

This was a really sweet and steamy brother's best friend, small-town romance. This story follows Avery, who is returning to her hometown of Greenstone after finishing her Master's degree. She has always had feelings for her older brother's best friend, Jackson, and she decides to act on those feelings now that she is home. Unbeknownst to her that he feels the same way.

Avery really drew me into this story. Her character was confident, sweet, and not afraid to go after exactly what she wanted; like Jackson in a date auction. The chemistry between her and Jackson was so good, and I surprisingly loved the low angst between the two of them. I also really enjoyed the fun and humorous banter.

This is the first book in the Landen Acres series, and I am excited to read the rest of the books in this series!

Thank you, Natalie, for providing me with an ARC copy of For Avery in exchange for an honest review 🖤

[Emma Eurich · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love cowboys, small towns, and lots of spice? Then For, Avery is for you!

This book is a dual pov with short chapters so it was super easy to read through. There is a lot of spice so if that’s not your thing then o suggest staying away. But if you like spice, then you’ll be very happy!

I loved how direct Avery was with Jackson and that they didn’t waste a whole lot of time trying to confess feelings for each other. It was very quick and to the point. Overall the book was fun and I recommend to those looking for an easy fun spicy read.

[Holli Mahar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the dynamic between the MMC and the MFC. I am also looking forward to other books in this series. Such a good read.

[Khalish · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ For Avery! - ARC review ⭐️

✨ Small-town romance

✨ Best friends sister

✨ Age gap of 6 years

✨ Shy boy, Confident girl

✨ Forbidden love

If you’re into a fast-paced, short chapters type of a book, you should add For Avery by Natalie Jess in your list! If you’re just starting to read and love romance, but you’re not sure where to begin, this book would be perfect 🥰

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

✨ For Avery by Natalie Jess - ARC Review ✨

🏠 Small Town Romance
🤠 Cowboy/Farmer Romance
👦🏻 Older Brother's Best Friend
🚫 Forbidden Love
💜 HEA

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶🌶

Jackson Landen has been falling for his best friend's younger sister Avery for a long time, but his reputation for not being able to commit has Chase making it crystal clear that playboy Jackson isn't to go anywhere near either of his sisters. Ever. And Jackson has accepted that. Now, Avery is moving back to their small farm town from college in the big city, and she is on a mission to show Jackson exactly how she feels about him by winning a date with him at an auction. A date that her brother Chase has made abundantly clear is not to be a real date. Except it is, and she wants Jackson to know exactly what her intentions are. Once it's clear that the feelings they have are mutual, there's nothing standing in their way... other than his best friend and her older brother. Chase.

This romance is sweet and simple. There's not a whole lot of drama or angst. If you're looking for a first step into romance novels, this would be a good start. I think a huge part of reading romance novels is finding what tropes fit with your reading style, and this has a taste of enough of them to get you started. The spice was at a good medium. The scenes were hot, but not over the top. Again, a good starter for anyone not sure what to expect in romance novels or unsure of what their limits are. The characters were all very likable - even Chase as an overbearing older brother was still very endearing, and I can see this filling out into a full series about all the Landen brothers easily. I think I'd be most interested in hearing Tommy's story since he had his heartbroken so deeply by his ex, and we find out that she is moving back to town in this book.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read that got right to the point and stayed at a steady pace. I wish there had been a little more time spent on the back story or maybe even just a little more angst or yearning before things progressed (personal preference here), but it was a cute book with a sweet love story.

[Kristen Weidner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the perfect little comfort read! Low angst, insta love, sexy, small town, farm boy, yes, please!

I have very little to say on this one. The characters are great. You can feel that this is a book that is setting up a series with all the side characters ( which I love ), but the main characters in this book don't get lost. Natalie hits some of my all-time favorite tropes with brother's best friend, mutual pining, small town, protective mmc, I could go on. With this book being fairly low angst, there aren't many triggers and would be a great book to rec for beginners, palate cleansers, book slumps, or comfort reads.

If I had anything negative to say, it would be that I wish it was a little longer. I would have loved to see a little more tension, or flashbacks, or development of the relationship, it would have made that mutual pining between Avery and Jackson hit a little harder.

The book has good writing, great characters, heartwarming storyline, with a stellar set up for the rest of the series, which I am now looking forward to a great deal!
Overall four stars
Spice three stars

[Natalie (Novels__&__Needles) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received as an ARC in return for my honest review.

🤠 Small town cowboy
🤠 Brother’s best friend
🤠 No third act breakup (thank God)

This was my first book by Natalie and I really enjoyed it. The world building was nicely done, the main characters and side characters were well thought out and worked well together. I really liked the relationship between Avery and Jackson my only gripe is I wish we had a little bit more of their backstory, although that’s a me thing.

I adore me a big family small town romance so I can’t wait to see what’s next to come in this series. This was a great start and opening book as an introduction to Natalie’s work.

[Linsey Toney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book, I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in this series!!

For Avery is the 1st book in the Landen Acers series. Jackson is secretly in love with his best friends little sister. He promised his best friend that he wouldn't ever try anything with either of his two sisters. Can he keep his promise when Avery moves back home?

This is an absolute must read. Add to your TBR list I promise you won't be disappointed!
There is anger, love, steamy passion, and a great storyline. What's not to love?!


Trigger Warnings: Detailed Adult Content

[Rebecca Middleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

- ARC review -

This book could be considered a comfort country romance where their love finally blossoms. Overall I enjoyed reading this book. I love a brother’s best friend and small town romance with a happily ever after vibe provided.

The storyline was well written, however, moved at an accelerated pace. From the first date to trying on rings was a very short timeframe. I understand that they were each already aware of their feelings before entering into this relationship. It would have been nice though, to get some more insight into the development of their relationship and how they coped with instantly living together. That being said this is the first book for the Landen brothers so there could be further explanations and descriptions of their life together in the subsequent books.

There was a good amount of angst and spice mixed into the story. The scenes including spice were not overly graphic or frequent. Chase was written as a very over protective brother but that only added to the angst when they were testing the waters in secret.

I am looking forward to ready the books for each brother. The hints for Tommy’s book were just enough to get me guessing what is to come next.

[Sara Carver · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew… I’m Gonna Need A Minute 🥵

Or five because WOW! This one had me enraptured. From the very beginning! This was not a slow burn but one that grips you right off the bat. The spice, gooodness the SPICE! 🤤 The love story, it was such a happy one and those are so incredibly needed. It also left me wanting to know so much more about all the families involved in this close-knit farm town. I want to be a part of this town and feel all of the love, happiness, and sexiness that it includes. 💋

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was adorable. The characters are lovable and relatable. I loved the story start to finish. Very well written and paced. Loved it!

[Denise Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed that Jackson was “real.” He has social anxiety with crowds, and feels actual emotions beyond happy/lust/etc. Avery is understanding of this & does what she can to help him in situations that she knows will bother him. She’s been in love with him for so long that it’s second mature for her. It’s easy to see why they want to spare her brother when they de ode to try things between them. This is a sweet read, but has plenty of spice in all the right places.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brother’s best friend and requited but stupid go together like peanut butter and chocolate. Avery’s brother Chase had one rule, Don’t fuck with his sisters. Easy peasy for his best friend and baby sister to follow right? It would have been except for a serious case of unrequited love (times two). Then this not so simple rule becomes a secret romance for two people that are truly meant to be. The real threat to Avery and Jackson’s is the one person they both can’t stand to loose.
Buckle up babes. This story has so many sweet country men you just want to ride off into the sunset with. Or… maybe I’ll just hog tie Bryant and keep him for myself. (I need his story after Tommy’s please 🙏)

[Mary, Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m going to be a bit of a curmudgeon for a minute – you cannot truly be in love with someone without having experienced them. My husband and I moved fast (arguably not as fast as Avery and Jackson holy shit) and that’s fine because there was life together during that time. We lived together, saw each other every day, and that facilitated internal and external conflict that we were able to deal with together. After six years, he’s a completely different person and so am I. It’s amazing how much you grow and shift in adulthood, so the fact that Avery has been away at college for the entirely of her adult life tells me these two don’t well and truly know each other enough to be in love. But it’s a romance novel, so, suspension of disbelief or whatever.

The only genuine issue I had was that the dialogue was cheesy as hell and so was the way the characters physically behaved. I don’t know how to explain that further and it make sense, but just reading their way Tommy, Avery and the girl who’s name starts with a C interacted with each other made me cringe a little.

But man, I think I’m kind of hardcore ride or die for Tommy???? Something about him makes me want to fight his battles for him.

Overall, it was a cute book with a semi unique plot that resolved a little too quickly for the length of the book.

[bookdatewithjdate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was by far the best “cowboy” romance I’ve read - in addition to it being a solid 5-star all around romance. Why? It contained progressive voices/characters that are glaringly absent in the dearth of cowboy romances that have unfortunately flooded the book space. For Avery is written exceedingly well and full of loveable, believable characters that you want to spend time with. What? There can be cowboys without MAGA hats? This is such a needed addition to the cowboy sub-genre and should be the standard by which others are measured.

“Brother’s best friend” (BBF) is often a trope that is cloying and annoying - but it’s so well done here. It’s used as a potential barrier for the MCs - but not so overwrought that it’s distracting or the only plot device used. I read another BBF book more recently from a beloved author - and it was shocking to see such different interpretations of the trope. For Avery is proof it can be done well.

I DEVOURED the other two books in this series and am pumped for the fourth in this series, coming out next year. The author also has a kickstarter coming out soon for all four books - make sure and sign up for when it releases. I was thrilled to find Natalie Jess and am so excited to see what’s next!

[rogue_reads_romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an MF romance and is book one of the Landen Acres series. This was a 5 star, 3 spice read for me! I loved this book! I actually snagged the special edition from Kickstarter a while back and was so happy to finally read it! Tropes include: brother’s best friend, age gap, small town, hallmark vibes, secret tattoo, “It’s always been you”, cowboy x college grad, strong FMC, open door spice, HEA.

Avery (FMC) is returning home soon from college. She has her eyes set on a new prize, one she’s secretly been after for years: Jackson Landen. She’s hoping that after all these years he will see her as something other than his best friend’s kid sister.

Jackson (MMC) works hard at two things: running a successful rand and trying not to stare at Avery Barnett. His best friend has made it clear that both of his sisters are off-limits. When Jackson finds himself and his social anxiety in a bind at the town bachelor auction, Avery is his saving grace. Now he just has to keep his hands to himself, right?

[Tracie Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Avery, by Natalie Jess is an amazing love story about Jackson Landen and Avery Barnett. Avery has always had a crush on her brothers best friend Jackson Landen. Hes older, sexy and just all out male. He has been around the block a few times and doesn't see her as more that his brothers baby sister. Jackson has had a thing for Avery for about 5 years. But, he promised his best friend Chase that he would not touch either of his sisters. Besides Jackson is sure that Avery could never feel the same about him. Everyone sees him as a playboy rancher, the oldest of the Landen brothers. When Jackson is put up on the Auction block for a date to raise money. Avery grabs her chance to show Jackson she can be the woman he wants. They agree to keep it under wraps and slowly get Chase to accept the idea. This book has soo much heat and a great story line. I fell in love with them and look forward to reading the other books.

[redreads4861 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tropes: Small Town
Brothers Best Friend
Age Gap

TWs:

Main Takeaway : Don’t hold back and wait on telling them you love them.

Synopsis : Avery and Jackson had feelings for each other for years but didn’t think the other had felt the same so they kept their distance. Jackson tried to only see Avery as Chase's “baby sister” even though he knew that was the furthest thing he wanted her to be. Avery did the same as Chase always made the comment of not getting involved with his best friend. So when they finally take their chance they decide what’s best for them and try to make that work.

Personal Thoughts: I loved this book. I love how Jackson showed his true self to Avery and how Avery calmed him when he was getting anxious. I loved how she went for what she wanted and said forget everything else. Absolutely amazing story and kept me up way past my bedtime.


Recommendation: Yes definitely on the recommendation list.

[Miriam_Reads94 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, for me it was a short read and I love a short read. Avery is an independent woman who knows what she wants and is willing to take risks to get it, Jackson wants the only person who is off-limits to him and is also willing to take risks to get what he wants. They both have a secret crush from years prior brewing inside them, and when given the chance to act on it they both do. Jackson is a protective, charming cowboy whats not to love? Toss in the mix up a protective older brother, and you have this awesome book. Definitly check it out if you like cowboys and western romances that take place in a small town (:

[Andra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 1 in Landen Acres series

Natalie Jess delivers a feel-good cowboy romance with spice in her debut novel. She truly captured the heart of the characters and brought them to life on the pages.

Each book in this series will follow a different couple. I loved reading Jackson's and Avery's love story. With a little bit of time and a lot of hope, love can prevail.

Strong, well-developed characters who know what they want. Detailed world building.

"The second your lips touched mine I knew I wasn't going to kiss anyone else."

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Avery is the first book of the Landen Acres series of interconnected standalones. This is one of those stories that will leave warm and fuzzy feelings. Jackson is Avery’s brother’s best friend, he older than her and she knows he only sees her as kid. Little does she know that Jackson is only staying away from her because he promised her brother that he’d never touch her. This story was sweet, low angst and was a quick read. It’s a great start to a new series and I can’t wait to read more by this author!

[Ashley Arca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED For Avery and have been so excited for its release!
Avery and Jackson are so perfect together and Natalie Jess does an incredible job making you feel like you are a part of their world. The emotions run high as Avery has been secretly crushing on her big brother’s best friend, Jackson, for A LONG TIME! Little did she know that Jackson reciprocated her feelings and he was holding it all in. Why? 1 reason and 1 reason only, CHASE. Avery’s big brother, whose main mission is to make sure Jackson doesn’t ever date either of his sisters!
I absolutely loved how Avery & Jackson came together, in secret, and made things work for them, regardless of what others thought!
This story has a wonderful plot, the yummiest amount of spice (hello barn scene) and so many supporting characters you also can’t help but fall in love with!
I can’t wait for everyone to read For Avery AND I can’t wait to read about
the other Landen Brothers!

[Christine Stolley · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’m sorry but this book was so boring! Both of the MCs drove me nuts. There was mention, several times, that Jackson’s past included both men and women, but there was no other mention about it. It was like why say it if it’s not even part of the story. And the names of the MCs Jackson and Avery? The whole time I kept thinking about Grey’s Anatomy…Jackson Avery. Jackson is said to have colorful past with his partners and is a bit of a bad boy, but he isn’t. The whole thing was just not convincing.

[Alannah King · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story went at a fast pace. I was a bit confused at parts with remembering who was related to who and who was friends with who. I honestly felt like this was the second book in the series and not the first.
I enjoyed reading about Avery and Jackson’s characters and them together, but I wish I knew more about the characters individually and why they fell for one another.

[Kimberly Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a small town, age gap, brother’s best friend romance. Avery our FMC is returning home from college and is hoping that Jackson will see a her as more then just chases little sister. And Jackson is working on his ranch get social anxiety at the town bachelor auction and Avery save him. Such a angsty sweet read.

[Sasha Onyx · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a yes for me!

Such a sweet and spicy read. There's nothing like a comfort read during trying times. And I loved everything about Avery and Jackson's burning chemistry.
Looking forward to read the rest of the series.

[Kimberly Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Avery and Jackson characters together.i liked chase, although he was a little annoying sometimes. This is a dual point of view, small town, low angst cowboys romance. Only issue I had was I would have like to get more of the back story of them before they actually got together.

[Ashley Arca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED For Avery and have been so excited for its release!
Avery and Jackson are so perfect together and Natalie Jess does an incredible job making you feel like you are a part of their world. The emotions run high as Avery has been secretly crushing on her big brother’s best friend, Jackson, for A LONG TIME! Little did she know that Jackson reciprocated her feelings and he was holding it all in. Why? 1 reason and 1 reason only, CHASE. Avery’s big brother, whose main mission is to make sure Jackson doesn’t ever date either of his sisters!
I absolutely loved how Avery & Jackson came together, in secret, and made things work for them, regardless of what others thought!
This story has a wonderful plot, the yummiest amount of spice (hello barn scene) and so many supporting characters you also can’t help but fall in love with!
I can’t wait for everyone to read For Avery AND I can’t wait to read about
the other Landen Brothers!

[Elyse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun read! I love the small town, family feel that Natalie created. You really fall in love with the characters and want them to get their HEA ❤️