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Finding Home #1
And Then There's You
We all come to a crossroads.
With college graduation, I knew I’d find myself at a fork in the road, but I never imagined choosing a path would mean breaking a heart.
Love can ignite our soul, taking over our every thought—it can be found amongst comfort and happiness or intense and undeniable chemistry. It can make us feel like we’re home, or it can make us feel free—but it can rarely be both. And just when we think we have it all figured out, a piece of our past can make us reconsider everything.
⠀
I never thought I’d be in this position—I never thought I’d have to choose. If someone would have asked me a year ago if it were possible to love two people at once, I’d have said absolutely not.
⠀
Yet here I am, different parts of me loving two men in different ways, forced to focus on what I want my future to look like—my life to look like.
And who I want by my side.
And Then There’s You is a steamy romance full of life, love, and self-discovery and the first book in the Finding Home series.
With college graduation, I knew I’d find myself at a fork in the road, but I never imagined choosing a path would mean breaking a heart.
Love can ignite our soul, taking over our every thought—it can be found amongst comfort and happiness or intense and undeniable chemistry. It can make us feel like we’re home, or it can make us feel free—but it can rarely be both. And just when we think we have it all figured out, a piece of our past can make us reconsider everything.
⠀
I never thought I’d be in this position—I never thought I’d have to choose. If someone would have asked me a year ago if it were possible to love two people at once, I’d have said absolutely not.
⠀
Yet here I am, different parts of me loving two men in different ways, forced to focus on what I want my future to look like—my life to look like.
And who I want by my side.
And Then There’s You is a steamy romance full of life, love, and self-discovery and the first book in the Finding Home series.
425 pages, Paperback
Published February 18, 2023
42 people are currently reading
809 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 15, 2023
This book. This BEAUTIFUL book! How do I put into words the emotions this story put me through?!
Maci is a 21 year old girl trying to figure out what she wants to do with the rest of her life as we all did at some point in college. As someone who didn’t declare her major until her junior year of college, I completely identified with Maci. College is a time of self discovery not just with what career direction to take but also soul searching.
Make no mistake, this is a romance! I won’t give any spoilers away, of course, but you will find yourself falling in love with these characters and resonating with them on every level. Matthews was able to tap into the insecurities of a 21 year old navigating the winding roads of finding yourself so beautifully and readers will be transported back in time to those pivotal moments in their lives.
The character development throughout the story is striking and doesn’t just focus on the main character like so many other books do. Even side characters have their own self exploration and that is something to be said!
The number of lines I highlighted in this book on my kindle is insane! Quite possibly more than I’ve ever highlighted before. Matthews has a way of painting such descriptive scenes with her words that you actually feel like you’re there. And I don’t usually care for descriptive scenes, so take my word for it!
First loves, first heart breaks, the challenges we went through with finding ourselves in our early 20s, this book has it all.
And of course I can’t forget about the sex scenes! Screenshot worthy if you know what I mean 🔥🔥🔥
The characters had enough foundation and relationship built between them that readers will get fully invested in the intimacy and romance and hang on every word. These are not scenes that lack substance. Real talk: THEY ARE HOT!
Again, no spoilers. But you know that feeling when you finish a book and your mind is whirling and you audibly sigh because you don’t want it to be finished?? THAT is this book! My head is still in the story with Maci and the rollercoaster of a journey she took.
I can’t believe this is Matthews first novel with how well the story was crafted. I’ve already read this book several times because it’s just that good. I can’t wait to see her writing career take off and devour any book she writes in the future.
Maci is a 21 year old girl trying to figure out what she wants to do with the rest of her life as we all did at some point in college. As someone who didn’t declare her major until her junior year of college, I completely identified with Maci. College is a time of self discovery not just with what career direction to take but also soul searching.
Make no mistake, this is a romance! I won’t give any spoilers away, of course, but you will find yourself falling in love with these characters and resonating with them on every level. Matthews was able to tap into the insecurities of a 21 year old navigating the winding roads of finding yourself so beautifully and readers will be transported back in time to those pivotal moments in their lives.
The character development throughout the story is striking and doesn’t just focus on the main character like so many other books do. Even side characters have their own self exploration and that is something to be said!
The number of lines I highlighted in this book on my kindle is insane! Quite possibly more than I’ve ever highlighted before. Matthews has a way of painting such descriptive scenes with her words that you actually feel like you’re there. And I don’t usually care for descriptive scenes, so take my word for it!
First loves, first heart breaks, the challenges we went through with finding ourselves in our early 20s, this book has it all.
And of course I can’t forget about the sex scenes! Screenshot worthy if you know what I mean 🔥🔥🔥
The characters had enough foundation and relationship built between them that readers will get fully invested in the intimacy and romance and hang on every word. These are not scenes that lack substance. Real talk: THEY ARE HOT!
Again, no spoilers. But you know that feeling when you finish a book and your mind is whirling and you audibly sigh because you don’t want it to be finished?? THAT is this book! My head is still in the story with Maci and the rollercoaster of a journey she took.
I can’t believe this is Matthews first novel with how well the story was crafted. I’ve already read this book several times because it’s just that good. I can’t wait to see her writing career take off and devour any book she writes in the future.
February 15, 2023
This novel is good. And I don’t even just mean “good for a debut novel” good.
I identified with Maci on so many levels as she grew throughout the chapters, and her experiences mirrored so many of my own, it was a nice dose of nostalgia.
When you’re 21 years old, the world is full of so many choices, adventures and learning opportunities if you put yourself out there and just go for it.
Looking back on my life, I can distinctly pinpoint choices that led me from one path to another, and Matthews did an incredible job of capturing those feelings as Maci was forced to discover herself and decide between the things and people that set her soul of fire and the ones that provide safety and comfort.
The sex scenes are 🔥🔥, the internal struggles and search for self awareness and happiness are relatable, the growth for all the characters is obvious, and the love and passion are real.
I went from rooting for one character to hating them and back again. This novel is full of all the fun stuff you expect from the genre while also nodding to and educating on topics that deserve more attention.
So many of the lines are highlight worthy.
I refuse to spoil the ending. You need to read the book.
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗗𝗘𝗕𝗨𝗧 𝗡𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗟, 𝗧𝗶𝘀𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘄𝘀! We should all follow our dreams like you have because sometimes we put something magical like this novel into the world when we do.
I’ll be ordering book 2 as soon as it’s published.
I identified with Maci on so many levels as she grew throughout the chapters, and her experiences mirrored so many of my own, it was a nice dose of nostalgia.
When you’re 21 years old, the world is full of so many choices, adventures and learning opportunities if you put yourself out there and just go for it.
Looking back on my life, I can distinctly pinpoint choices that led me from one path to another, and Matthews did an incredible job of capturing those feelings as Maci was forced to discover herself and decide between the things and people that set her soul of fire and the ones that provide safety and comfort.
The sex scenes are 🔥🔥, the internal struggles and search for self awareness and happiness are relatable, the growth for all the characters is obvious, and the love and passion are real.
I went from rooting for one character to hating them and back again. This novel is full of all the fun stuff you expect from the genre while also nodding to and educating on topics that deserve more attention.
So many of the lines are highlight worthy.
I refuse to spoil the ending. You need to read the book.
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗗𝗘𝗕𝗨𝗧 𝗡𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗟, 𝗧𝗶𝘀𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘄𝘀! We should all follow our dreams like you have because sometimes we put something magical like this novel into the world when we do.
I’ll be ordering book 2 as soon as it’s published.
February 15, 2023
Putting all of my thoughts and feelings about Tisa Matthew’s debut novel into one simple review may prove to be difficult, however I’ll try. I say it will be difficult, because there are so many wonderful things about this novel to summarize into one review.
Follow the main female character Maci through her journey of self discovery. Add in some romance, heart break, travel and adventure and you’ve got And Then There’s You.
You will experience a rollercoaster of thoughts, feelings and emotions. Mathew’s so vividly paints the picture that you’re experiencing everything right along with Maci. You’ll fall in love with her characters, be conflicted about those feelings and feel your heart shatter into a million pieces. And then when you’ve felt all of that, you’ll feel acceptance and even a little hope.
You’ll feel the anxieties and self doubt that come with being 21, falling under the pressure of the expectation that you should have your life all figured out. It’s a feeling that we’ve all felt at one time or another.
Mathew’s characters all have depth, and are so intricately interwoven in a way that brings interesting and unexpected twists to Maci’s journey. The story is unpredictable in the best way. You will be so immersed in this story that you will be begging for the second book, just so you can live in this world a little longer.
My favorite books take me away from reality, transport me to places unknown, fully surround me with the characters and their story.
Matthew’s book does all of this and more.
And as for then ending? Well, you’ll just have to read it to find out. I’m not giving anything away, other than it will evoke all kinds of emotions.
I am already eagerly awaiting the next book from Matthews. She is definitely a new author to be watched.
February 15, 2023
What a beautiful story about falling in love and finding yourself! Don’t miss this debut novel from Tisa Matthews! Gosh, so good.
February 20, 2023
This book is truly amazing and definitely keeps you hooked in. I used to not be much of a reader but I joined a book club almost 2 years ago and found a love for reading romance novels. I commonly read at a slow pace and it takes me a while sometimes to get through books but not this one. I started it one night and finished it the next which is a new record for me reading a book.
The Author Tisa Matthews really keeps you hooked into Maci’s story and makes you want to keep reading because of how many turns Maci’s life takes within this book! Just when you think you know what’s going to happen another turn comes that you don’t expect.
The book is well written with lots of spicy sex scenes that are broken up throughout the book nicely. You fall in love with Maci and her story and are on the edge of your seat the entire time wondering what’s going to happen and how Maci’s story will end.
I loved this book and definitely recommend it to anyone who loves romance novels with good spice in them! I am so excited for Matthews next book and will be patiently waiting for it because this girl can write!!!
The Author Tisa Matthews really keeps you hooked into Maci’s story and makes you want to keep reading because of how many turns Maci’s life takes within this book! Just when you think you know what’s going to happen another turn comes that you don’t expect.
The book is well written with lots of spicy sex scenes that are broken up throughout the book nicely. You fall in love with Maci and her story and are on the edge of your seat the entire time wondering what’s going to happen and how Maci’s story will end.
I loved this book and definitely recommend it to anyone who loves romance novels with good spice in them! I am so excited for Matthews next book and will be patiently waiting for it because this girl can write!!!
April 21, 2023
I was recommended this book by a friend and I absolutely loved it!
I love that I couldn't predict what was going to happen and that it was it's own story.
I loved the development of the main character. When we meet her, she is introverted, predictable and is reliant on others. She spent 3 years devoted to school and not straying much from a life of safety and predictability. Throughout the story we see her get knocked around but we see her push herself and grow into who she was meant to be.
Each path in her life represents a lifestyle she thinks that she wants and a side of her personality.
Definitely give this book a read. It was refreshing to read a story that hasn't already been told. The characters were so interesting and unique and the plot holds your interest until you can't put the book down.
I love that I couldn't predict what was going to happen and that it was it's own story.
I loved the development of the main character. When we meet her, she is introverted, predictable and is reliant on others. She spent 3 years devoted to school and not straying much from a life of safety and predictability. Throughout the story we see her get knocked around but we see her push herself and grow into who she was meant to be.
Each path in her life represents a lifestyle she thinks that she wants and a side of her personality.
Definitely give this book a read. It was refreshing to read a story that hasn't already been told. The characters were so interesting and unique and the plot holds your interest until you can't put the book down.
March 20, 2023
I start this review by stating that I am a 41-year-old man who does not read this type of book. However, I wanted to support my friend, so I bought it and decided to read it until it got too cheesy.
Let me tell you, not only did it never get too cheesy, as these sorts of novels tend to do, but Matthews did a fantastic job transporting the reader into each location. Whether it was the beaches of Costa Rica, the boulangeries of France, a speakeasy in Las Vegas, or a university campus in Oregon, I genuinely felt like I was in each location.
The character development is top-notch. You find the main character easy to relate to; you have strong feelings about her love interests and wish her best friends were your best friends.
Though new to this genre, I am an avid reader, and for a book to reach five stars, it must stick to the landing. After experiencing the main character's growth, I feel the ending was perfect—just enough satisfaction with more than a dash of wanting more.
Did I mention this is her debut book? Matthews has set herself a high bar, and I look forward to seeing what is in store for her future.
Let me tell you, not only did it never get too cheesy, as these sorts of novels tend to do, but Matthews did a fantastic job transporting the reader into each location. Whether it was the beaches of Costa Rica, the boulangeries of France, a speakeasy in Las Vegas, or a university campus in Oregon, I genuinely felt like I was in each location.
The character development is top-notch. You find the main character easy to relate to; you have strong feelings about her love interests and wish her best friends were your best friends.
Though new to this genre, I am an avid reader, and for a book to reach five stars, it must stick to the landing. After experiencing the main character's growth, I feel the ending was perfect—just enough satisfaction with more than a dash of wanting more.
Did I mention this is her debut book? Matthews has set herself a high bar, and I look forward to seeing what is in store for her future.
February 21, 2023
Let me say first Maci takes you on a roller-coaster of emotions. At first I had a hard time connecting with her but as the book progressed and I got deeper and deeper into her story I was able to form that connection. My heart strings were pulled in so many different directions its crazy. It got to where I was feeling her emotions. This is the authors first book and she's one one of the few people I call a friend, but putting that aside this book is definitely worth the read and honestly I'll end up rereading it because it has that ability to just suck you in and not let you go. If you take a chance on any book I urge you to make it this book. You won't be disappointed!
February 24, 2023
I didn’t know what to expect - especially for a debut novel.
Let me just say, I am blown away! Matthews paints the perfect pictures in her scenes, and I connected with the main character, Maci, on so many levels.
It was hard to put down, and oh yeah, one other thing?
The ending made me mad. 😅
I am (impatiently) awaiting for more from Matthews!
Let me just say, I am blown away! Matthews paints the perfect pictures in her scenes, and I connected with the main character, Maci, on so many levels.
It was hard to put down, and oh yeah, one other thing?
The ending made me mad. 😅
I am (impatiently) awaiting for more from Matthews!
February 26, 2023
Omgosh! I knew I was going to enjoy reading this book, but was still so amazed at how quickly it sucked me into Maci’s world! I seriously couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait to read what comes next! Bravo, Tisa and Katherine!
April 21, 2023
Love how unique this storyline was and how different it is from most books I read. Can’t wait for book 2!!
April 6, 2023
What a great book! Can relate on so many levels. Feels like I’m in a therapy session i so needed. Finding your self. Inspired me to add some things on my bucket list. Such a real book and loved the spicy scenes! Can’t wait for book number 2! What a cliff hanger!
February 6, 2024
Let's just say you'll be in for a wild ride
Knowing the author aside. This book was really enjoyable.
For her being a beginner author all I can say is WOW! Took me a minute to get into the story but all the twist and turns really kept my attention. Watching the characters deal with finding love and healing from heartbreak felt very relatable. Throw back to college days of not knowing what you want to do in life. You can't help but feel like you're actually part of Maci's journey and want to be her friend.
Oh and you can't forget the sprinkles of some really good spice throughout 🔥
#teamDean all the way
Knowing the author aside. This book was really enjoyable.
For her being a beginner author all I can say is WOW! Took me a minute to get into the story but all the twist and turns really kept my attention. Watching the characters deal with finding love and healing from heartbreak felt very relatable. Throw back to college days of not knowing what you want to do in life. You can't help but feel like you're actually part of Maci's journey and want to be her friend.
Oh and you can't forget the sprinkles of some really good spice throughout 🔥
#teamDean all the way
July 11, 2024
How in the world this is Tisa's debut book, I'll never understand!!! Her book truly surpassed all of my expectations! It has such a great, realistic storyline that sucks you in from the get-go! I can't wait to read books 2 and 3!!! 🩷
January 20, 2024
This book was highly rated so I was expecting it to be really great. I was 85% in before I was really intrigued. A lot of work for so little.
March 18, 2023
Wow! This book was everything and more.
I connected with Maci right away, loved her and felt like I was reading about some of my own experiences. I loved the growth of her finding herself through every chapter. The drama, love, finishing college, traveling and figuring it all out kept me turning the pages. And the sex scenes were fire, just enough spice.
Highly recommend!!
When you're done reading this book come chat with me so we can discuss the ending and exchange thoughts!!
I connected with Maci right away, loved her and felt like I was reading about some of my own experiences. I loved the growth of her finding herself through every chapter. The drama, love, finishing college, traveling and figuring it all out kept me turning the pages. And the sex scenes were fire, just enough spice.
Highly recommend!!
When you're done reading this book come chat with me so we can discuss the ending and exchange thoughts!!
April 21, 2023
This book drew me in away from the outside world and I loved every minute of it. Once I began, I was hooked and could not put it down. It brought a sweet nostalgia while keeping the right amount of spice. I cannot wait to read the next book!
July 21, 2023
Loved this book! Don't want to post any spoilers but I may have yelled some at the end. I am a crier and cried a couple times from the sweetness of Mack. Absolutely love him!
Will definitely be reading the next book in the series. Can't wait!
Will definitely be reading the next book in the series. Can't wait!
April 21, 2023
I could say SO much about this book, but I won’t because I don’t want to spoil it for anyone. What I will say is I was shocked at just HOW MUCH this book captivated me. I could not put it down. From the first chapter I was pulled in and felt such nostalgia for my college years and I loved how easy and fun it was to read. I was engulfed in their world for the few days it took me to read it… and for days afterwards! I couldn’t stop thinking about the characters and their story.
April 14, 2023
Oh my word so good! What a cliffhanger! Write faster! 😂
March 2, 2023
Well it was a rollercoster ride for sure, I was rooting for Mack and I hope we get a follow up maybe with Lexy 's story.
February 29, 2024
4/5⭐️
Before I write the review, I want to put this out there.
Team MACK FOREVER
Now onto the review.
I don’t usually read love triangles; it’s not my go-to romance trope, but I saw everyone raving about this book, so I gave it a shot, and honestly, I am not disappointed.
Maci’s character was relatable at first—the portrayal of a 21-year-old who is navigating her way through life and is on a journey of self-discovery.
In the middle of the book, I felt disconnected with Maci’s character because there was so much going on in the background and her inner monologue. The last 10 chapters were my favorite part of the story.
Also, it’s predictable who she is going to end up with, IMO. I'm hopping on to the second book right away to see if my guess is right or not.
Before I write the review, I want to put this out there.
Team MACK FOREVER
Now onto the review.
I don’t usually read love triangles; it’s not my go-to romance trope, but I saw everyone raving about this book, so I gave it a shot, and honestly, I am not disappointed.
Maci’s character was relatable at first—the portrayal of a 21-year-old who is navigating her way through life and is on a journey of self-discovery.
In the middle of the book, I felt disconnected with Maci’s character because there was so much going on in the background and her inner monologue. The last 10 chapters were my favorite part of the story.
Also, it’s predictable who she is going to end up with, IMO. I'm hopping on to the second book right away to see if my guess is right or not.
June 3, 2023
Such a great book. The ending caught me by surprise which I loved! I highly recommend this book to anyone! I fell in love with all the characters!
September 9, 2023
This book.. just WOW! The first book in the Finding Home series and the author’s first debut novel! You will follow Maci through college, roommates, boys, and finding herself. You will feel everything Maci feels. Love, heartbreak, happiness, loss, and so many other things. She finds herself while also finding her people. The slight cliffhanger at the end is only tolerable not that book 2 “I love you, so what” is out now!!! I highly recommend reading “And then there’s you”. Added bonus is there are some great spicy scenes!
⭐️5
🌶️3 -they’re spicy, but mild/tame, but written well.
⭐️5
🌶️3 -they’re spicy, but mild/tame, but written well.
March 9, 2025
Readers should note that book three has flash backs to before the time frame of this book.
4.5 Stars-
Do you have a husband? Do you want one?
Maci and Avery are best friends and have plans. Big plans. To see the world. Avery also has a boyfriend. Maci has two goals for her senior year at Oregon (1) to get out of her apartment more, do more, experience more (2) get a boyfriend.
I love the uncertainty of what comes next, the inability to predict what will happen, but I crave answers and closure and am frustrated waiting for it page after page. I do not love the emotional rollercoaster I am on and am dying to find out the direction Maci chooses for herself. Unless it literally is herself- how predictable and progressive. Also, it is challenging for me, being much older than Maci's 21, to relate to her fleeting feelings and whims of self-discovery. Most people at 21 are not ready to make clear cut life long commitments, especially those, like Maci, who are boy crazy. She likes the attention and physical attraction from each and this shows on nearly every page, but she lacks honesty with her feelings to herself and others.
Things I do Not Like:
1. You cannot just say that you will meet someone out front of a stadium. There is no out front. There are multiple gates. Pick one and meet in front of it.
2. For someone who said she rarely drinks...Maci seems to drink regularly. Wine, beer, whiskey sour, shots. You name it, other than coffee, she drinks it.
3. I do not like that Lexy seems to have replaced Avery. Maci needs to talk with Avery. Tell her what is going on, let her be there for her. And for him.
4.5 Stars-
Do you have a husband? Do you want one?
Maci and Avery are best friends and have plans. Big plans. To see the world. Avery also has a boyfriend. Maci has two goals for her senior year at Oregon (1) to get out of her apartment more, do more, experience more (2) get a boyfriend.
I love the uncertainty of what comes next, the inability to predict what will happen, but I crave answers and closure and am frustrated waiting for it page after page. I do not love the emotional rollercoaster I am on and am dying to find out the direction Maci chooses for herself. Unless it literally is herself- how predictable and progressive. Also, it is challenging for me, being much older than Maci's 21, to relate to her fleeting feelings and whims of self-discovery. Most people at 21 are not ready to make clear cut life long commitments, especially those, like Maci, who are boy crazy. She likes the attention and physical attraction from each and this shows on nearly every page, but she lacks honesty with her feelings to herself and others.
Things I do Not Like:
1. You cannot just say that you will meet someone out front of a stadium. There is no out front. There are multiple gates. Pick one and meet in front of it.
2. For someone who said she rarely drinks...Maci seems to drink regularly. Wine, beer, whiskey sour, shots. You name it, other than coffee, she drinks it.
3. I do not like that Lexy seems to have replaced Avery. Maci needs to talk with Avery. Tell her what is going on, let her be there for her. And for him.
August 3, 2023
When I say that I haven’t read a book so fast in my life, I mean it. Tisa has written a book that has lived in my head rent free for the last month and I still catch myself daydreaming about it.
The plot takes you in so many directions in the best way. Each chapter leaving you at the edge of your seat all the way to the end. I couldn’t put it down.
I am so excited for Tisa and her debut novel and can’t wait for more work from her in the future!
The plot takes you in so many directions in the best way. Each chapter leaving you at the edge of your seat all the way to the end. I couldn’t put it down.
I am so excited for Tisa and her debut novel and can’t wait for more work from her in the future!
January 16, 2025
While this was a bit hard for me to get into at first, I'm very glad I persisted (I blame it on what i read previously). I took a very sharp left turn from my last book, but now I'm obsessed with the storyline now and can't wait to read the following books! 10/10 would recommend.
December 8, 2023
📚BOOK REVIEW 📚
***Have you ever wanted to relive an era of your life? Perhaps, just to feel the nostalgia of what life was like at that time of your life? If you are looking to revisit the last year of college and the journey of self identification and discovery, this may be the romance novel for you!***
⚠️Trigger Warnings ⚠️
-substance abuse, sexual activities, and predatory drug experience
📝My Review📝
There are multiple coming-of-age eras in our lifetime. In Maci’s “college coming-of-age” era, she journeys through an array of relatable and life changing events. This novel details these experiences beginning at the last year of her college career into her first year out of college. As many coming-of-age moments are, Maci is on a road of self-reflection, self-discovery, love, and life lessons. You will feel the nostalgia of first loves and heartbreaks, but also observe budding and mature relationships develop through friendships and love interest. One will begin to “ship” a relationship to then becoming confused and unsure of which way to “ship”.
In her debut novel, Tisa Matthews begins to explore a world of multiple stories within one over all storyline. Each character connects to one another in some way. It leads you to want to learn more about particular characters more than others. (Cough cough I need to know more about Marcus like yesterday😜). Furthermore, Tisa’s writing paints a relatable and sentimental experience and feeling throughout the book.
As a reader, I devoured this novel in not weeks but days. Actually almost within 24 hours. I found myself highly invested and immersed with the “Finding Home” world that I felt the array of emotions each character experienced. There was only one part of the book that I had to re-read twice as I became confused and a bit disoriented. However, I was able to move past this moment and reconnect almost immediately. Towards the ending I kept trying to figure out Maci’s decision and direction in life, and just when I thought I may know the answer I was left on my toes. The ending did not fail to entice me and it left me yearning for more. I could easily see myself revisiting this book overtime to relive some of the nostalgia that I felt during that era of my life.
***Have you ever wanted to relive an era of your life? Perhaps, just to feel the nostalgia of what life was like at that time of your life? If you are looking to revisit the last year of college and the journey of self identification and discovery, this may be the romance novel for you!***
⚠️Trigger Warnings ⚠️
-substance abuse, sexual activities, and predatory drug experience
📝My Review📝
There are multiple coming-of-age eras in our lifetime. In Maci’s “college coming-of-age” era, she journeys through an array of relatable and life changing events. This novel details these experiences beginning at the last year of her college career into her first year out of college. As many coming-of-age moments are, Maci is on a road of self-reflection, self-discovery, love, and life lessons. You will feel the nostalgia of first loves and heartbreaks, but also observe budding and mature relationships develop through friendships and love interest. One will begin to “ship” a relationship to then becoming confused and unsure of which way to “ship”.
In her debut novel, Tisa Matthews begins to explore a world of multiple stories within one over all storyline. Each character connects to one another in some way. It leads you to want to learn more about particular characters more than others. (Cough cough I need to know more about Marcus like yesterday😜). Furthermore, Tisa’s writing paints a relatable and sentimental experience and feeling throughout the book.
As a reader, I devoured this novel in not weeks but days. Actually almost within 24 hours. I found myself highly invested and immersed with the “Finding Home” world that I felt the array of emotions each character experienced. There was only one part of the book that I had to re-read twice as I became confused and a bit disoriented. However, I was able to move past this moment and reconnect almost immediately. Towards the ending I kept trying to figure out Maci’s decision and direction in life, and just when I thought I may know the answer I was left on my toes. The ending did not fail to entice me and it left me yearning for more. I could easily see myself revisiting this book overtime to relive some of the nostalgia that I felt during that era of my life.
January 10, 2026
Maci is not sure where her life is going. However, she has always wanted to travel with her best friend Aver, even though she knows this might not happen as Avery is looking to settle down with her boyfriend.
Aside from wanting to travel, Maci wants a boyfriend and is determined to get more involved this school year. So, when Maci meets Troy in math class who seems interested in her, she goes with it, but is sad when he ghosts her after what she thought was the perfect date.
Soon after, Maci meets Dean and the two seem to build a connection but Maci can’t help but feel Dean is holding back. When Dean leaves for Costa Rica, Maci is heartbroken until Avery, pushes towards her brother Mack, who apparently has always had a crush on her.
I loved this story, it was an emotional rollercoaster! My heart aches for Maci as she just wants to know where she fits in and find her own way. At the start, I found myself routing for Maci and Dean. He clearly feels for her but is unable to commit in the way that Maci so very much craves. When he left and Maci begins opening herself up to the possibility of Mack, it seems like Mack is perfect for Maci. Their communication is always on point and they just get each other. However life with Mack isn’t what Mack thought it would and when Mack breaks her trust, Maci decides that she needs to figure out things for herself, find what she wants, without him. I knew her ending up in Costa Rica would mean she would reunite with Dean. I thought the reunion would be bittersweet but Maci’s old feelings resurface and she believes that Dean is different now after getting to know the reasons for why he left. It was wonderful to see Maci do what she needed to do to find herself and figure out what she wanted, but I found my heart ripping apart for Mack who wants nothing more than for Maci to come back to him, so that they can be together.
Aside from wanting to travel, Maci wants a boyfriend and is determined to get more involved this school year. So, when Maci meets Troy in math class who seems interested in her, she goes with it, but is sad when he ghosts her after what she thought was the perfect date.
Soon after, Maci meets Dean and the two seem to build a connection but Maci can’t help but feel Dean is holding back. When Dean leaves for Costa Rica, Maci is heartbroken until Avery, pushes towards her brother Mack, who apparently has always had a crush on her.
I loved this story, it was an emotional rollercoaster! My heart aches for Maci as she just wants to know where she fits in and find her own way. At the start, I found myself routing for Maci and Dean. He clearly feels for her but is unable to commit in the way that Maci so very much craves. When he left and Maci begins opening herself up to the possibility of Mack, it seems like Mack is perfect for Maci. Their communication is always on point and they just get each other. However life with Mack isn’t what Mack thought it would and when Mack breaks her trust, Maci decides that she needs to figure out things for herself, find what she wants, without him. I knew her ending up in Costa Rica would mean she would reunite with Dean. I thought the reunion would be bittersweet but Maci’s old feelings resurface and she believes that Dean is different now after getting to know the reasons for why he left. It was wonderful to see Maci do what she needed to do to find herself and figure out what she wanted, but I found my heart ripping apart for Mack who wants nothing more than for Maci to come back to him, so that they can be together.
August 13, 2025
I'm going to be talking about this book for the rest of my life. This was absolutely BEAUTIFUL story, especially for a debut novel. I felt like I could relate to Maci so much, especially when I was 21, and also trying to decide on who my forever would be. (Spoiler alert - 16 years later, I can confirm I chose correct).
I will say love triangles aren't always my favorite because I'm usually disappointed in how the author betrays one of the characters and makes the answer of who the FMC will choose obvious. But holy moly. I finished this book, stared at the wall for a solid 10 minutes and still was unsure who Maci chose.
2.5🌶
THE CLUES ARE THERE. Definitely take your time reading this one and I think you will figure it out as well. As an avid spicy reader, I appreciated that there was quite a few smexy times between the characters, but it wasn't graphic (because it didn't need to be!). This story was all about the connections between the characters and again - was written so beautifully. I gobbled this story up and then immediately started book 2.
I will say love triangles aren't always my favorite because I'm usually disappointed in how the author betrays one of the characters and makes the answer of who the FMC will choose obvious. But holy moly. I finished this book, stared at the wall for a solid 10 minutes and still was unsure who Maci chose.
2.5🌶
THE CLUES ARE THERE. Definitely take your time reading this one and I think you will figure it out as well. As an avid spicy reader, I appreciated that there was quite a few smexy times between the characters, but it wasn't graphic (because it didn't need to be!). This story was all about the connections between the characters and again - was written so beautifully. I gobbled this story up and then immediately started book 2.
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