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When I Come Around
1999 goals: Get a life, get real… and get a room.
No one ever said I was the brightest bulb on the tree, but a near-death experience finally knocks some sense into my thick head.
Luckily, my jerk of an ex washes his hands of me, but I’m left with so many burnt bridges to re-build. Landing a job on any movie or TV show that’ll have me has to be my #1 priority. Thankfully, my life-long friends still love me enough to help.
When the one I always wished could be more than a friend shows up on my doorstep, however, all my good intentions go right out the window. Before I know it, I’ve convinced him that an out-of-town, friends-with-benefits deal will be the perfect way to get over each other.
Is it another in a long line of bad decisions, or a move that'll turn things around? 110 percent, I hope he can handle the truth.
Fans of 90’s TV shows, from Friends to Freaks and Geeks, will love this second chance, friends-to-lovers, retro romance, where a grumpy cinnamon roll hero and a wounded bird heroine vie for a happy-ever-after despite interference from meddling found-family friends.
Note: Content guidance can be found at karengrey dot com slash contentguidance.
No one ever said I was the brightest bulb on the tree, but a near-death experience finally knocks some sense into my thick head.
Luckily, my jerk of an ex washes his hands of me, but I’m left with so many burnt bridges to re-build. Landing a job on any movie or TV show that’ll have me has to be my #1 priority. Thankfully, my life-long friends still love me enough to help.
When the one I always wished could be more than a friend shows up on my doorstep, however, all my good intentions go right out the window. Before I know it, I’ve convinced him that an out-of-town, friends-with-benefits deal will be the perfect way to get over each other.
Is it another in a long line of bad decisions, or a move that'll turn things around? 110 percent, I hope he can handle the truth.
Fans of 90’s TV shows, from Friends to Freaks and Geeks, will love this second chance, friends-to-lovers, retro romance, where a grumpy cinnamon roll hero and a wounded bird heroine vie for a happy-ever-after despite interference from meddling found-family friends.
Note: Content guidance can be found at karengrey dot com slash contentguidance.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 29, 2024
About the author
Karen Grey
22 books620 followersKAREN GREY is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of vintage romantic comedies with smart heroines and hunky heroes. Drawing on a long career as a performer, her retro 80's and 90's romances are populated with characters working both on- and off-stage in theater, TV and film.
She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.
To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.
If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey
Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen
She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.
To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.
If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey
Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
May 19, 2024
When I Come Around by Karen Grey is a beautifully nostalgic 90’s romance. Following two childhood friends, one with a major crush on the other, who eventually find their way. Well written, with characters that I adored. This book is refreshing and spicy, and it left me wanting more. I would definitely suggest checking the trigger warnings, though, as there are some traumatic themes.
The audiobook starts every chapter with the sound of internet dialup, reminding me of my glory days. I loved that! Narrated beautifully by Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap. I can’t fault this duo at all. Such an enjoyable and easy listen. I felt all the emotions. Wonderful performances.
Book 4.5/5
Spice 2/5
Narration 5/5
I’d like to thank Home Cooked Books for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
The audiobook starts every chapter with the sound of internet dialup, reminding me of my glory days. I loved that! Narrated beautifully by Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap. I can’t fault this duo at all. Such an enjoyable and easy listen. I felt all the emotions. Wonderful performances.
Book 4.5/5
Spice 2/5
Narration 5/5
I’d like to thank Home Cooked Books for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
May 8, 2024
The final book in a series comes with expectations. All the previous couples have a small part, and get a nice follow-up, but I wasn’t totally satisfied with the main couple.
The fact that the last two members of the group ended up together was a good idea. Since Whitney’s love life has created dramas throughout the series, to conclude it where it began–with one of her previous love interests–was nice. I just had a hard time believing those feelings.
Don’t get me wrong, they get a nice romance. Friends to lovers, secret love affair, some sexy times, it was perfect. But on one hand, you have a woman who confesses her feelings when she never acted on them, at all; and on the other hand, you have a player who’s been getting around since he was rejected by her. They supposedly had loved each other for the longest time, just never got together. Thankfully, they have meaningful moments when they connect, so it isn’t just lust or nostalgia.
But what I enjoyed the most was the characters’ journey. Whitney’s was more prominent, but Ford has some evolving to do too.
We finally learn why Whitney got married. We also meet with her parents and her husband. They all fail her big time, and she suddenly needs to reinvent herself. That’s what this book is about. Ford accompanies her through this transitional period, not knowing it’s a transitional period. So of course they’re bound to break up at some point. They both have to grow into themselves in order to have a solid relationship.
I loved the tidbits about shooting a movie, the sound stuff and the make up. It’s been a big part of the whole series, and we get more of it here.
All in all, it was a good book. Just not the great book I was expecting.
Quickie
- Series: Carolina classics #4 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #90’s #nostalgia #friends to lovers
- Triggers: emotional abuse, cheating (technically), miscarriage
- Main couple: Whitney Moore & Ford Fischer
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I loved how Whit learned how to stand for herself
- – always loved you but never realized? not buying it
The fact that the last two members of the group ended up together was a good idea. Since Whitney’s love life has created dramas throughout the series, to conclude it where it began–with one of her previous love interests–was nice. I just had a hard time believing those feelings.
Don’t get me wrong, they get a nice romance. Friends to lovers, secret love affair, some sexy times, it was perfect. But on one hand, you have a woman who confesses her feelings when she never acted on them, at all; and on the other hand, you have a player who’s been getting around since he was rejected by her. They supposedly had loved each other for the longest time, just never got together. Thankfully, they have meaningful moments when they connect, so it isn’t just lust or nostalgia.
But what I enjoyed the most was the characters’ journey. Whitney’s was more prominent, but Ford has some evolving to do too.
We finally learn why Whitney got married. We also meet with her parents and her husband. They all fail her big time, and she suddenly needs to reinvent herself. That’s what this book is about. Ford accompanies her through this transitional period, not knowing it’s a transitional period. So of course they’re bound to break up at some point. They both have to grow into themselves in order to have a solid relationship.
I loved the tidbits about shooting a movie, the sound stuff and the make up. It’s been a big part of the whole series, and we get more of it here.
All in all, it was a good book. Just not the great book I was expecting.
Quickie
- Series: Carolina classics #4 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #90’s #nostalgia #friends to lovers
- Triggers: emotional abuse, cheating (technically), miscarriage
- Main couple: Whitney Moore & Ford Fischer
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I loved how Whit learned how to stand for herself
- – always loved you but never realized? not buying it
May 23, 2024
🎧🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW🎧🎧
Confession ⇒ I am ridiculously extra when it comes to series. I found out this ALC was available for promotion at the beginning of April and as one does, I looked up all things Karen Grey because she was new to me. As soon as I realized this was the 4th book in a series, I jumped over to my trusty Everand subscription and the rest is history. I’m going to take this opportunity to tell you that if you get the chance to do as I did and experience this series from the beginning, do it. Part of this book is the inclusion of previous couples and a window into what their lives are now and I think you would enjoy the overall #happysigh a lot more if you knew them already.
Karen Grey has a magical pen. That’s really the most accurate way for me to describe her writing. This story was delicate. There are circumstances in this story that depict the worst in humanity and Karen treated them with the respect and sincerity they needed. She was respectful and real, and I just could not be prouder of the story. I’ve read a lot of books in my lifetime thus far and it is shocking how many times I’ve read not only circumstances such as the ones in this story but many other sensitive circumstances that are just thrown in as an afterthought, for dramatics, and just never given the respect they deserve. MAD PROPS to Karen Grey!
This story felt like what coming home would feel like to me. Because I experienced this series from the beginning, I felt their journey deep in my heart. They danced around each other for a long time and when they finally crossed over the “friends-to-more” line, I felt this deep sense of contentment wash over me and I was ridiculously happy for them. I know they are fictional (lol) and that’s where the magic of Karen Grey’s pen comes in. She wrote a story/series that I lived inside of for may many hours and I didn’t want to leave! There is honestly not a single aspect of this story to pick at because even when I was frustrated, the frustration was legitimate and true to the circumstances in the story. #magic
Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap were perfect as Whitney & Ford but honestly, not as perfect when it came to other voices. There are a whole lot of people in this story and there were times when others sounded a bit too similar and for a few nanoseconds I had to think who was who in conversations. A little more versatility in the narration would have been helpful but it is still a really great listen!
Thank you Home Cooked Books for not only providing this ALC for review but introducing me to Karen Grey. It has been an outstanding ride!
Confession ⇒ I am ridiculously extra when it comes to series. I found out this ALC was available for promotion at the beginning of April and as one does, I looked up all things Karen Grey because she was new to me. As soon as I realized this was the 4th book in a series, I jumped over to my trusty Everand subscription and the rest is history. I’m going to take this opportunity to tell you that if you get the chance to do as I did and experience this series from the beginning, do it. Part of this book is the inclusion of previous couples and a window into what their lives are now and I think you would enjoy the overall #happysigh a lot more if you knew them already.
Karen Grey has a magical pen. That’s really the most accurate way for me to describe her writing. This story was delicate. There are circumstances in this story that depict the worst in humanity and Karen treated them with the respect and sincerity they needed. She was respectful and real, and I just could not be prouder of the story. I’ve read a lot of books in my lifetime thus far and it is shocking how many times I’ve read not only circumstances such as the ones in this story but many other sensitive circumstances that are just thrown in as an afterthought, for dramatics, and just never given the respect they deserve. MAD PROPS to Karen Grey!
This story felt like what coming home would feel like to me. Because I experienced this series from the beginning, I felt their journey deep in my heart. They danced around each other for a long time and when they finally crossed over the “friends-to-more” line, I felt this deep sense of contentment wash over me and I was ridiculously happy for them. I know they are fictional (lol) and that’s where the magic of Karen Grey’s pen comes in. She wrote a story/series that I lived inside of for may many hours and I didn’t want to leave! There is honestly not a single aspect of this story to pick at because even when I was frustrated, the frustration was legitimate and true to the circumstances in the story. #magic
Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap were perfect as Whitney & Ford but honestly, not as perfect when it came to other voices. There are a whole lot of people in this story and there were times when others sounded a bit too similar and for a few nanoseconds I had to think who was who in conversations. A little more versatility in the narration would have been helpful but it is still a really great listen!
Thank you Home Cooked Books for not only providing this ALC for review but introducing me to Karen Grey. It has been an outstanding ride!
August 21, 2025
Story Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (0-5)
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
🤩🎧🌟 Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap add all the southern charm to this beautiful story, enhancing all the feelings, and making the listener fall in love with the sweetness of Whitney and Ford even more. Amanda Stribling does a fantastic job of changing her voice to match the personalities of other characters—you feel it deeply in Whitney's conversations with the horrible people in her life. Ryan Lee Dunlap does an amazing Ford, enhancing these fine Ford qualities with his perfomance--giving, caring, patient, oh so attentive, and smokin' hot! And, yes, I definitely listened to that first hug and kiss more than once.
🌟 My initial reaction/mini review: If you like childhood friends-to-lovers, workplace romance with unique forced proximity, & retro 90s epistolary vibes, you will loooove this beautiful book!
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 It’s a good bookish life and what joy being in the acknowledgements: “Thank you to all the Karen Grey VIPs who brainstormed 90s songs for the book’s title. I love the one we chose!”
🤩 Captivating and clever retro 90s steamy romance.
🤩 Great mix of beach town setting and inland Carolina movie production setting.
🤩 Childhood friends-to-lovers: oh goodness, the friendship bracelet had tears streaming down my face multiple times. So much love and tenderness and secret pining.
🤩 Unique workplace forced proximity—yes, please!
🤩 Ford is my true book boyfriend forever! He is giving, caring, patient . . . and so hot when he decides to show (not just tell) Whitney how much he cares about her! 🥵
🤩 The best first hug and kiss I’ve ever read—all the feels! 🥰❤️🔥
🤩 When Ford and Whitney start to open up and really talk, ugh, it’s refreshing, beautiful, and oh so cuuuuuute! Steamy romcom goodness!
🤩 The actual steam is such a great combination of sneaky, hot, fun, and intimate.
🤩 The divorce law/emotional domestic abuse plot is smart, sweet (successful women supporting other women), and so well written. The retro resilience and healing are magnificent, and I totally love Whitney and all the character development we get to witness as a reader! Plus, it gives us all those extra feelings of longing.
🤩 Fantastic use of epistolary components—email threads, letter writing, and invitations.
🤩 All the intricate details with late nineties nostalgia are so perfect.
🤩 This friend group is something special. You’ll feel it in this book alone—it’s a standalone in a series of interconnected books with the same friend group, each member getting their own HEA. I highly recommend them all.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 I became a super fan of @karengreyauthor last year & have read her whole back list. Actually, I listened to all the audiobooks (highly recommend) so this is a new experience for me hearing Karen’s writing with the voices in my head. I could hear these beautiful and broken people loud and clear; however, I cannot wait to have a reread via the audiobook in a few months! That first hug and kiss are going to be so good on audiobook (first person, dual POV)!
Thanks to the author & Home Cooked Books for the ALC copy of this beautiful book.
When I Come Around
By Karen Grey
Narrated by Amanda Stribling & Ryan Lee Dunlap
4th and final book in the Carolina Classics series.
Updating for audiobook . . .
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
🤩🎧🌟 Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap add all the southern charm to this beautiful story, enhancing all the feelings, and making the listener fall in love with the sweetness of Whitney and Ford even more. Amanda Stribling does a fantastic job of changing her voice to match the personalities of other characters—you feel it deeply in Whitney's conversations with the horrible people in her life. Ryan Lee Dunlap does an amazing Ford, enhancing these fine Ford qualities with his perfomance--giving, caring, patient, oh so attentive, and smokin' hot! And, yes, I definitely listened to that first hug and kiss more than once.
🌟 My initial reaction/mini review: If you like childhood friends-to-lovers, workplace romance with unique forced proximity, & retro 90s epistolary vibes, you will loooove this beautiful book!
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 It’s a good bookish life and what joy being in the acknowledgements: “Thank you to all the Karen Grey VIPs who brainstormed 90s songs for the book’s title. I love the one we chose!”
🤩 Captivating and clever retro 90s steamy romance.
🤩 Great mix of beach town setting and inland Carolina movie production setting.
🤩 Childhood friends-to-lovers: oh goodness, the friendship bracelet had tears streaming down my face multiple times. So much love and tenderness and secret pining.
🤩 Unique workplace forced proximity—yes, please!
🤩 Ford is my true book boyfriend forever! He is giving, caring, patient . . . and so hot when he decides to show (not just tell) Whitney how much he cares about her! 🥵
🤩 The best first hug and kiss I’ve ever read—all the feels! 🥰❤️🔥
🤩 When Ford and Whitney start to open up and really talk, ugh, it’s refreshing, beautiful, and oh so cuuuuuute! Steamy romcom goodness!
🤩 The actual steam is such a great combination of sneaky, hot, fun, and intimate.
🤩 The divorce law/emotional domestic abuse plot is smart, sweet (successful women supporting other women), and so well written. The retro resilience and healing are magnificent, and I totally love Whitney and all the character development we get to witness as a reader! Plus, it gives us all those extra feelings of longing.
🤩 Fantastic use of epistolary components—email threads, letter writing, and invitations.
🤩 All the intricate details with late nineties nostalgia are so perfect.
🤩 This friend group is something special. You’ll feel it in this book alone—it’s a standalone in a series of interconnected books with the same friend group, each member getting their own HEA. I highly recommend them all.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 I became a super fan of @karengreyauthor last year & have read her whole back list. Actually, I listened to all the audiobooks (highly recommend) so this is a new experience for me hearing Karen’s writing with the voices in my head. I could hear these beautiful and broken people loud and clear; however, I cannot wait to have a reread via the audiobook in a few months! That first hug and kiss are going to be so good on audiobook (first person, dual POV)!
Thanks to the author & Home Cooked Books for the ALC copy of this beautiful book.
When I Come Around
By Karen Grey
Narrated by Amanda Stribling & Ryan Lee Dunlap
4th and final book in the Carolina Classics series.
Updating for audiobook . . .
May 13, 2024
Updated review after audio release, May (listened in April) 2024:
It’s even better than before because audio is always better! I wish I could bump up my star rating but 5 is the best we can give… I remember loving the (suggested) changes Karen made between beta and arc/release, but hearing them performed a couple months later again? Yeah, that was perfection!!
Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap were absolutely the best choices to pick as Ford and Whitney. Great casting! I know it was a lot of questions about who would be the voices for the roles and in the end she definitely went with perfect selections. I really enjoy these two and they’ve both done another stellar performance.
If you haven’t heard Karen Grey’s Carolina Classics series yet, now that it’s complete in audio, this is the perfect time to start!
Original review from February 2024:
What a way to end a series! 5 glorious stars! I can’t wait to read this for a third time when the audio releases (first read was beta and the changes/updates from then to the arc copy were perfection), and find out which awesome narrators she’s picking for these, my favourite characters!
Karen Grey has a knack for taking extremely sensitive and serious topics (timely both from the retro era she’s writing about, the late 90’s, as well as now), such as women’s reproductive rights and domestic and spousal abuse - in this case emotional trauma - and giving us a beautiful second chance friends to lovers story.
Ford has always been in love with Whitney - in fact he and Sully had a falling out over it many years ago (since they both were), and then she went and married that creep Hardy…. and not one of their tight-knit friends group could figure out why. Everything comes out at the very start of this book, when Whitney needs to be rushed to the hospital in the middle of Violet’s bachelorette party due to a miscarriage. Hardy and her parents show up at the hospital and their true colors all come out, including the absolutely disgusting side of Hardy and how all he wanted was a “breeder” and that her parents basically sold her to him to pay her college bills, and he’s done with her.
She disowns her family as much as they disown her after the miscarriage leads to a hysterectomy, but her old friends take her back in, especially Ford - leading to all the old feelings.
A beautiful and long-awaited joining of these friends who were meant to be together but too many outside influences kept them apart for years. Working together in the film industry poses its own challenges, and she needs to have some independence after the awful experiences she lived and she still keeps him at arms length, but we finally get our friends and series conclusion that we waited such a long time for, and it’s even better than I could have anticipated!
I completely and totally recommend not only this special and spectacular read, but the entire series (it’s better with the whole character arc)! Grey is such an amazing author and storyteller and you do not want to miss this one!
I received an advance copy from the author and Home Cooked Books PR, and this is my honest feedback.
It’s even better than before because audio is always better! I wish I could bump up my star rating but 5 is the best we can give… I remember loving the (suggested) changes Karen made between beta and arc/release, but hearing them performed a couple months later again? Yeah, that was perfection!!
Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap were absolutely the best choices to pick as Ford and Whitney. Great casting! I know it was a lot of questions about who would be the voices for the roles and in the end she definitely went with perfect selections. I really enjoy these two and they’ve both done another stellar performance.
If you haven’t heard Karen Grey’s Carolina Classics series yet, now that it’s complete in audio, this is the perfect time to start!
Original review from February 2024:
What a way to end a series! 5 glorious stars! I can’t wait to read this for a third time when the audio releases (first read was beta and the changes/updates from then to the arc copy were perfection), and find out which awesome narrators she’s picking for these, my favourite characters!
Karen Grey has a knack for taking extremely sensitive and serious topics (timely both from the retro era she’s writing about, the late 90’s, as well as now), such as women’s reproductive rights and domestic and spousal abuse - in this case emotional trauma - and giving us a beautiful second chance friends to lovers story.
Ford has always been in love with Whitney - in fact he and Sully had a falling out over it many years ago (since they both were), and then she went and married that creep Hardy…. and not one of their tight-knit friends group could figure out why. Everything comes out at the very start of this book, when Whitney needs to be rushed to the hospital in the middle of Violet’s bachelorette party due to a miscarriage. Hardy and her parents show up at the hospital and their true colors all come out, including the absolutely disgusting side of Hardy and how all he wanted was a “breeder” and that her parents basically sold her to him to pay her college bills, and he’s done with her.
She disowns her family as much as they disown her after the miscarriage leads to a hysterectomy, but her old friends take her back in, especially Ford - leading to all the old feelings.
A beautiful and long-awaited joining of these friends who were meant to be together but too many outside influences kept them apart for years. Working together in the film industry poses its own challenges, and she needs to have some independence after the awful experiences she lived and she still keeps him at arms length, but we finally get our friends and series conclusion that we waited such a long time for, and it’s even better than I could have anticipated!
I completely and totally recommend not only this special and spectacular read, but the entire series (it’s better with the whole character arc)! Grey is such an amazing author and storyteller and you do not want to miss this one!
I received an advance copy from the author and Home Cooked Books PR, and this is my honest feedback.
May 22, 2024
When I Come Around is a friends-to-lovers romance that has been years in the making. Although everyone knows Ford’s feelings towards Whitney, what no one knows is that Whitney has always cared for Ford, but she was too worried she’d mess it up or he’d be collateral damage in her battle with her parents. Working together on a movie set away from their home and friends gives the pair time to explore feelings and much more.
While each has baggage that needs to be addressed, Whitney comes with way more than Ford. Whitney is slow to come to terms that her parents and husband were emotionally and mentally abusive, and because of this, she can’t fully express what’s wrong in her life. This all leads poor communication and misguided help from her friends, including Ford. As an outsider, I was shaking my head at her friends’ attempts to help by talking amongst themselves behind her back. I could see the train wreck in slow motion, and I was frustrated that Ford knew it was wrong, but didn’t just put an end to it. The author does a great job of realistically portraying the mental and emotional limitations of a victim of abuse. Similarly, the reactions of her friends are true to life based on the limited information they have. It all makes for an emotional story that is heartbreaking at times. Luckily, Ford learns how to adjust and be there for Whitney on her terms.
Narration: The story is shared via the alternating first person POVs of Whitney (Stribling) and Ford (Dunlap). Both have southern accents that vary with each character. Dunlap has a pleasant, somewhat deep voice, adjusting dialogue slightly based on gender and age. Sometimes it was hard to distinguish different characters, especially those of the same gender and during dialogue. Stribling’s voice is fairly high-pitched and nasally, but she softens it for Whitney. She deepens her voice for male characters and alters sufficiently to make each character distinguishable. The voices for Vi and Dani seemed too old, but it could also be because I’ve heard the narrator before and those voices were used for older characters.
When I Come Around is a slow-burn romance filled with sexy times, lots of laughs, and some serious emotional growth that packs a punch. The author has a bonus epilogue free for Karen Grey subscribers, which turns Whit and Fords’ HFN to an HEA and is a delightful “cherry on top” for fans of the Carolina Classics series.
Ratings:
Story B+
Narration B
Review copy provided by author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
While each has baggage that needs to be addressed, Whitney comes with way more than Ford. Whitney is slow to come to terms that her parents and husband were emotionally and mentally abusive, and because of this, she can’t fully express what’s wrong in her life. This all leads poor communication and misguided help from her friends, including Ford. As an outsider, I was shaking my head at her friends’ attempts to help by talking amongst themselves behind her back. I could see the train wreck in slow motion, and I was frustrated that Ford knew it was wrong, but didn’t just put an end to it. The author does a great job of realistically portraying the mental and emotional limitations of a victim of abuse. Similarly, the reactions of her friends are true to life based on the limited information they have. It all makes for an emotional story that is heartbreaking at times. Luckily, Ford learns how to adjust and be there for Whitney on her terms.
Narration: The story is shared via the alternating first person POVs of Whitney (Stribling) and Ford (Dunlap). Both have southern accents that vary with each character. Dunlap has a pleasant, somewhat deep voice, adjusting dialogue slightly based on gender and age. Sometimes it was hard to distinguish different characters, especially those of the same gender and during dialogue. Stribling’s voice is fairly high-pitched and nasally, but she softens it for Whitney. She deepens her voice for male characters and alters sufficiently to make each character distinguishable. The voices for Vi and Dani seemed too old, but it could also be because I’ve heard the narrator before and those voices were used for older characters.
When I Come Around is a slow-burn romance filled with sexy times, lots of laughs, and some serious emotional growth that packs a punch. The author has a bonus epilogue free for Karen Grey subscribers, which turns Whit and Fords’ HFN to an HEA and is a delightful “cherry on top” for fans of the Carolina Classics series.
Ratings:
Story B+
Narration B
Review copy provided by author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
February 17, 2024
Since the beginning of this series, I have been waiting for this story. “When I Come Around” is a emotional, sweet and wonderful friends to lovers romance that made my heart so happy.
Ford has been in love with Whitney for years but Whitney has only ever allowed herself to see him as a friend due to her controlling parents. Fast forward years later, Whitney and Ford are back in the same area working on a TV set. But Whitney is back after leaving her husband when she suffered a near death experience that her husband found inconvenient. Whitney is in need of some emotional healing and finds herself drawn to Ford. The two start out as friends again but the chemistry underneath that has been brewing for years comes to the surface.
Ford and Whitney’s story stole my heart from the beginning and I connected with them both right away. Their friendship had a deep history and that shined through as they found their way to each other as more than friends. Ford is a genuine guy who cares big and that shows in how he is Whitney. His patience for everything that had to do with Whitney made my heart so happy. And my heart also squeezed for Whitney. While she had everything she needed when it came to having physical things, she had been hurting emotionally. Her parents' emotional manipulation growing up transferred into the marriage she had run to when she was younger. It was all she had known. I loved her finding herself in this story and I cheered her on at each step she took to get back to her true self. The slow burn to the Whitney and Ford becoming a couple had me turning the pages because I knew these two were meant together. I loved the era of this story and the emails between this group of friends that brought me back to the era I loved the most.
Ford has been in love with Whitney for years but Whitney has only ever allowed herself to see him as a friend due to her controlling parents. Fast forward years later, Whitney and Ford are back in the same area working on a TV set. But Whitney is back after leaving her husband when she suffered a near death experience that her husband found inconvenient. Whitney is in need of some emotional healing and finds herself drawn to Ford. The two start out as friends again but the chemistry underneath that has been brewing for years comes to the surface.
Ford and Whitney’s story stole my heart from the beginning and I connected with them both right away. Their friendship had a deep history and that shined through as they found their way to each other as more than friends. Ford is a genuine guy who cares big and that shows in how he is Whitney. His patience for everything that had to do with Whitney made my heart so happy. And my heart also squeezed for Whitney. While she had everything she needed when it came to having physical things, she had been hurting emotionally. Her parents' emotional manipulation growing up transferred into the marriage she had run to when she was younger. It was all she had known. I loved her finding herself in this story and I cheered her on at each step she took to get back to her true self. The slow burn to the Whitney and Ford becoming a couple had me turning the pages because I knew these two were meant together. I loved the era of this story and the emails between this group of friends that brought me back to the era I loved the most.
February 28, 2024
I'm truly sad to have this series end. I have started this review over, so many times throughout the day I just can't quite seem to get it right.
So I went back to the 90's and Greenday to see if maybe they had some words of wisdom.
"So go do what you like, make sure you do it wise
You may find out that your self-doubt means nothing
Was ever there
You can't go forcing something if it's just not right"
*Songwriters: Billie Joe Armstrong / Frank Edwin Wright III / Mike Ryan Pritchard
This I think explains perfectly Ford and Whitney's non-relationship. The group itself had so much growing to do. None started out wisely that first night the night of the hurricane. But in the end they all had to face self-doubt and no one quite as much as Whitney and Ford. And just like Whitney's parents tried to force her into something, trying to force something to not happen won't work either. Ford and Whit are clearly meant to be, if they can commit to the work.
So much character growth in this book. We really get to see Whitney evolve into a self-sufficient person. Not that she needs to be but if she chose to be she could survive on her own.
Ford finally has to man up and face his feelings. Which I absolutely couldn't wait to read.
I also have to note I immensely enjoy and appreciate that it is frequently brought up that it is completely acceptable and normal for women not to want to have children or to give birth. The tragedy that caused this to be a topic was I felt handled well within the book as well.
I have voluntarily left this review.
So I went back to the 90's and Greenday to see if maybe they had some words of wisdom.
"So go do what you like, make sure you do it wise
You may find out that your self-doubt means nothing
Was ever there
You can't go forcing something if it's just not right"
*Songwriters: Billie Joe Armstrong / Frank Edwin Wright III / Mike Ryan Pritchard
This I think explains perfectly Ford and Whitney's non-relationship. The group itself had so much growing to do. None started out wisely that first night the night of the hurricane. But in the end they all had to face self-doubt and no one quite as much as Whitney and Ford. And just like Whitney's parents tried to force her into something, trying to force something to not happen won't work either. Ford and Whit are clearly meant to be, if they can commit to the work.
So much character growth in this book. We really get to see Whitney evolve into a self-sufficient person. Not that she needs to be but if she chose to be she could survive on her own.
Ford finally has to man up and face his feelings. Which I absolutely couldn't wait to read.
I also have to note I immensely enjoy and appreciate that it is frequently brought up that it is completely acceptable and normal for women not to want to have children or to give birth. The tragedy that caused this to be a topic was I felt handled well within the book as well.
I have voluntarily left this review.
March 3, 2024
When I Come Around is the 4th book in the Carolina Classics series and one of my most anticipated reads this year!
The nostalgia is real within these pages so slip on your favorite bucket hat, find your long lost giga pet, and cue up livin la Vida Loca cause we are going back to 1999 for Ford and Whitney’s story!
After a tragedy that nearly cost her life and ended her awful marriage, Whitney takes a job working on a movie set out of town to try and pick up the pieces of her life. When the movie set she is on needs a new sound guy her close knit group of friends sees a perfect opportunity for Ford to take the job so he can not only make sure she’s ok but to possibly figure out what has led to this time in her life. Ford has harbored feelings for Whitney for a long, long time, but Whitney’s feelings were a little more closely guarded for reasons she’s held deep inside. With the two away from friends and family, they decide to explore a friends with Benefits situation. But could it ever lead to more?
This book really hit me in all the feels from the very first page! I really enjoyed getting to read Whitney’s POV she is such a wonderful character and so much more than meets the eye. My heart broke for her it truly did, but she was so resilient and strong that I admired her more than anything else. The relationship between Ford and Whitney, while complicated, also seemed so easy and natural his affection for her was just pure and unyielding, and I was thrilled with how it all played out.
Karen really hit it out of the park with this book, I couldn’t imagine wanting anything more than what she delivered with this couple and especially with Whitney. When I come around, he has everything, friendships, love, heartbreak, a touch of angst, humor, and inspiration! The entire series has been so good, and I’d definitely recommend it for any romance fan!
.
The nostalgia is real within these pages so slip on your favorite bucket hat, find your long lost giga pet, and cue up livin la Vida Loca cause we are going back to 1999 for Ford and Whitney’s story!
After a tragedy that nearly cost her life and ended her awful marriage, Whitney takes a job working on a movie set out of town to try and pick up the pieces of her life. When the movie set she is on needs a new sound guy her close knit group of friends sees a perfect opportunity for Ford to take the job so he can not only make sure she’s ok but to possibly figure out what has led to this time in her life. Ford has harbored feelings for Whitney for a long, long time, but Whitney’s feelings were a little more closely guarded for reasons she’s held deep inside. With the two away from friends and family, they decide to explore a friends with Benefits situation. But could it ever lead to more?
This book really hit me in all the feels from the very first page! I really enjoyed getting to read Whitney’s POV she is such a wonderful character and so much more than meets the eye. My heart broke for her it truly did, but she was so resilient and strong that I admired her more than anything else. The relationship between Ford and Whitney, while complicated, also seemed so easy and natural his affection for her was just pure and unyielding, and I was thrilled with how it all played out.
Karen really hit it out of the park with this book, I couldn’t imagine wanting anything more than what she delivered with this couple and especially with Whitney. When I come around, he has everything, friendships, love, heartbreak, a touch of angst, humor, and inspiration! The entire series has been so good, and I’d definitely recommend it for any romance fan!
.
Read
March 13, 2024Now available in ebook and paperback wherever books are sold!
Also in libraries, including Palace Marketplace and hoopla.
Audiobook coming later this spring...
Also in libraries, including Palace Marketplace and hoopla.
Audiobook coming later this spring...
May 19, 2024
“Growing up without growing apart…”
Story: 4 ⭐️s
Narration: 5 ⭐️s
The journeys of love and friendship for Grey’s Carolina Classics pentad come to a close with book four. It’s been a lovely, nostalgic ride, with a playlist that takes me back (I’ll be singing Sarah McLachlan for days!). Being that Ford and Whit’s connection has been peeking around the edges of this world from the beginning, getting their story was a satisfying button to the series.
Friends, to friends-with-benefits, to something more, is a storyline I always enjoy and it worked well in WICA. Both characters had solid arcs, though Whitney’s was definitely more intense. You can know someone all your life without really knowing who they are, and that contradiction is at the crux of Ford’s journey. He knows himself so well, but he doesn’t know Whitney as much as he thinks because she doesn’t really know herself. And until she does, they can’t work. So following the unfolding of that dynamic made for a compelling story.
Whit has been a bit of a cypher throughout the series and for the majority of this book she remains kind of unknowable, even when we’re in her POV. This is something that frustrated me at times because I couldn’t get a read on her, and so wasn’t vibing with her, for a good chunk of the book. However, as her history is revealed, Grey’s choices with her character begin to make perfect sense. And while the pacing of Whit’s arc felt crammed on the backend, in the balance it makes sense given the situation. Her journey was tense and deals with some heavy themes - emotional abuse, gaslighting - and I thought Grey handled them with a deft touch. She’s an author who’s not afraid to tackle heavy topics, even while spinning a fine romance between two people who deserve their HEA. Love stories that show people working on understanding themselves first, and practicing self-care and grace are so important. And it makes the love story that much sweeter.
Definitely recommend this one, especially if you’ve been in it with the Carolina Classics gang from the jump! I can’t wait to hear the audio for this one! It’s sure to add another layer to an already lovely story. Overall, though I am sad to say goodbye to this fictional friend group, I am looking forward to what new retro world Ms. Grey has up her sleeve for her next series.
February 2024: I received an advance reader copy via Home Cooked Books. All opinions are my own.
Audiobook Addendum
I had a great time revisiting the WICA story in audiobook form. It was perfectly cast, with Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling bringing Ford and Whitney to life. In this audio, they do what the best narrators do, and add to reader enjoyment of the story. I definitely had a great experience the first time astound, but their narration further lifted the characters for me. Reading through the first time, it took me a minute to connect to Whit; but through Stribling’s narration, I was able to make a quicker connection and have a longer investment with Whit than the first time around. Her performance was just fabulous! And Dunlop’s interpretation of Ford made him even more dreamy! Just another really great performance. Plus, with the fun sound effects from the clicking keyboard to the dial-up connection - it all definitely hit my 90s nostalgia buttons!
Unsurprisingly, the final Carolina Classics audio is another highly recommended listen. Grey consistently brings her best when coordinating her audiobooks and this final chapter is no exception.
May 2024: I received an ALC copy of the audiobook via Home Cooked Books. All opinions are my own.
Story: 4 ⭐️s
Narration: 5 ⭐️s
The journeys of love and friendship for Grey’s Carolina Classics pentad come to a close with book four. It’s been a lovely, nostalgic ride, with a playlist that takes me back (I’ll be singing Sarah McLachlan for days!). Being that Ford and Whit’s connection has been peeking around the edges of this world from the beginning, getting their story was a satisfying button to the series.
Friends, to friends-with-benefits, to something more, is a storyline I always enjoy and it worked well in WICA. Both characters had solid arcs, though Whitney’s was definitely more intense. You can know someone all your life without really knowing who they are, and that contradiction is at the crux of Ford’s journey. He knows himself so well, but he doesn’t know Whitney as much as he thinks because she doesn’t really know herself. And until she does, they can’t work. So following the unfolding of that dynamic made for a compelling story.
Whit has been a bit of a cypher throughout the series and for the majority of this book she remains kind of unknowable, even when we’re in her POV. This is something that frustrated me at times because I couldn’t get a read on her, and so wasn’t vibing with her, for a good chunk of the book. However, as her history is revealed, Grey’s choices with her character begin to make perfect sense. And while the pacing of Whit’s arc felt crammed on the backend, in the balance it makes sense given the situation. Her journey was tense and deals with some heavy themes - emotional abuse, gaslighting - and I thought Grey handled them with a deft touch. She’s an author who’s not afraid to tackle heavy topics, even while spinning a fine romance between two people who deserve their HEA. Love stories that show people working on understanding themselves first, and practicing self-care and grace are so important. And it makes the love story that much sweeter.
Definitely recommend this one, especially if you’ve been in it with the Carolina Classics gang from the jump! I can’t wait to hear the audio for this one! It’s sure to add another layer to an already lovely story. Overall, though I am sad to say goodbye to this fictional friend group, I am looking forward to what new retro world Ms. Grey has up her sleeve for her next series.
February 2024: I received an advance reader copy via Home Cooked Books. All opinions are my own.
Audiobook Addendum
I had a great time revisiting the WICA story in audiobook form. It was perfectly cast, with Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling bringing Ford and Whitney to life. In this audio, they do what the best narrators do, and add to reader enjoyment of the story. I definitely had a great experience the first time astound, but their narration further lifted the characters for me. Reading through the first time, it took me a minute to connect to Whit; but through Stribling’s narration, I was able to make a quicker connection and have a longer investment with Whit than the first time around. Her performance was just fabulous! And Dunlop’s interpretation of Ford made him even more dreamy! Just another really great performance. Plus, with the fun sound effects from the clicking keyboard to the dial-up connection - it all definitely hit my 90s nostalgia buttons!
Unsurprisingly, the final Carolina Classics audio is another highly recommended listen. Grey consistently brings her best when coordinating her audiobooks and this final chapter is no exception.
May 2024: I received an ALC copy of the audiobook via Home Cooked Books. All opinions are my own.
May 23, 2024
*Edited for audio*
When I Come Around by Karen Grey was a bittersweet read. Grey’s retro rom-com Carolina Classics series is officially wrapped and When I Come Around is one of my favorite books this year! The contrast between Whitney’s joyous support and Ford's grumpy observations had me hooked from page one. I knew Whitney’s journey would tug at my heartstrings. She was genuinely relatable and a force of nature. I loved her character arc throughout the book and I constantly felt the need to hug her. I could feel her self-doubt and low self-worth seeping from the page, but her determination to rebuild her life was inspiring. Ford! OMG, Ford flipping Fischer is one of Karen’s swooniest MMCs yet! He is a cinnamon roll through and through who isn’t afraid to the mattresses to protect his loved ones. Ford took my breath away a time or two in this book. Whitney and Ford’s relationship progression from "fallen-out" to friends to FWB and finally to forever love was beautiful. I thought it fit their history and their past experiences in the series and was a believable romance path. I adore Karen’s vivid imagery within her storytelling; she transports readers to sunny North Carolina and behind-the-scenes on film sets in the blink of an eye. Karen always has the best chapter headings; the When I Come Around chapter breaks will take you right back to the dawn of Instant Messenger and give you a glimpse of production communications. I love the Carolina Classics crew, Whitney and Ford melted my heart for good! If you’re looking for a nostalgic, found family, friends-to-lovers romance, When I Come Around needs a spot on your TBR now!
Amanda Stribling was The Perfect Choice to bring Whitney to life. She embodied Whitney perfectly with her charming southern accent and vibrant personality. Ryan Lee Dunlap's portrayal of Ford’s laidback, thoughtful, ambitious, swoony character was fantastic. I enjoyed every second of Amanda and Ryan’s performances in this nostalgic, heartfelt, retro romcom. If you’re looking for an emotional listen full of friendship and heart that will transport you back to the nineties/early aughts.
Spice Level: 🌶
When I Come Around by Karen Grey was a bittersweet read. Grey’s retro rom-com Carolina Classics series is officially wrapped and When I Come Around is one of my favorite books this year! The contrast between Whitney’s joyous support and Ford's grumpy observations had me hooked from page one. I knew Whitney’s journey would tug at my heartstrings. She was genuinely relatable and a force of nature. I loved her character arc throughout the book and I constantly felt the need to hug her. I could feel her self-doubt and low self-worth seeping from the page, but her determination to rebuild her life was inspiring. Ford! OMG, Ford flipping Fischer is one of Karen’s swooniest MMCs yet! He is a cinnamon roll through and through who isn’t afraid to the mattresses to protect his loved ones. Ford took my breath away a time or two in this book. Whitney and Ford’s relationship progression from "fallen-out" to friends to FWB and finally to forever love was beautiful. I thought it fit their history and their past experiences in the series and was a believable romance path. I adore Karen’s vivid imagery within her storytelling; she transports readers to sunny North Carolina and behind-the-scenes on film sets in the blink of an eye. Karen always has the best chapter headings; the When I Come Around chapter breaks will take you right back to the dawn of Instant Messenger and give you a glimpse of production communications. I love the Carolina Classics crew, Whitney and Ford melted my heart for good! If you’re looking for a nostalgic, found family, friends-to-lovers romance, When I Come Around needs a spot on your TBR now!
Amanda Stribling was The Perfect Choice to bring Whitney to life. She embodied Whitney perfectly with her charming southern accent and vibrant personality. Ryan Lee Dunlap's portrayal of Ford’s laidback, thoughtful, ambitious, swoony character was fantastic. I enjoyed every second of Amanda and Ryan’s performances in this nostalgic, heartfelt, retro romcom. If you’re looking for an emotional listen full of friendship and heart that will transport you back to the nineties/early aughts.
Spice Level: 🌶
May 4, 2024
Thank you Home Cooked Books for the Advanced Listeners Copy.
This is the fourth and final book in the Carolina Classics series and it’s fantastic! I’ve been waiting for Whitney’s story…she hasn’t been the easiest character to like (based on her behavior in the previous books) but this story helps us understand why.
Karen delivers an amazing story of second changes, forgiveness and finding ones self.
Whitney has not had the most supportive upbringing, is very insecure and needs a fresh start. She knows who her friends and support system are so she heads back to them.
Ford is a sweet, patient and caring man. He is also very career driven but will be at his friends side at the drop of a hat.
As Whitney and Ford reunite after many years there are so many questions between the two, trust issues, but a love that has never been forgotten.
This book has all the emotions…Karen writes a lovely story, with challenging/tough topics, and handles them beautifully.
These characters are some of my favorite and prove that friendships can withstand many challenges, disagreements and misunderstandings.
A perfect ending to the series.
Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling deliver an amazing performance. They bring a whole new experience to enjoying an authors words by giving voice, personality and emotion to the characters.
This is the fourth and final book in the Carolina Classics series and it’s fantastic! I’ve been waiting for Whitney’s story…she hasn’t been the easiest character to like (based on her behavior in the previous books) but this story helps us understand why.
Karen delivers an amazing story of second changes, forgiveness and finding ones self.
Whitney has not had the most supportive upbringing, is very insecure and needs a fresh start. She knows who her friends and support system are so she heads back to them.
Ford is a sweet, patient and caring man. He is also very career driven but will be at his friends side at the drop of a hat.
As Whitney and Ford reunite after many years there are so many questions between the two, trust issues, but a love that has never been forgotten.
This book has all the emotions…Karen writes a lovely story, with challenging/tough topics, and handles them beautifully.
These characters are some of my favorite and prove that friendships can withstand many challenges, disagreements and misunderstandings.
A perfect ending to the series.
Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling deliver an amazing performance. They bring a whole new experience to enjoying an authors words by giving voice, personality and emotion to the characters.
July 8, 2025
Ford had been in love with Whitney since they were teenagers. But she kept rejecting him until she married a rich man and deserted their group of friends for good. Now they are working together and she is trying to take the reins of her life and he is supposed to keep an eye on her and help her. Can they have a real chance at love or does she need to really break from her past to open her heart to a future with Ford? A great end to a great series. The audiobook with Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling is great, make you feel all the emotions deeply
May 27, 2024
When I Come Around by Karen Grey is book 4 in the Carolina Classic series. It's a he falls first, forced proximity, friends with benefits, friends to lovers, throwback romance. When I Come Around will take readers on blast from the past adventure, full of things only 80's/90's kids will understand like dial up internet, Y2K rumors and a time before texting existed. This reminiscent romance is all about the long game and knowing that one person is meant for you and worth waiting for. Narrator Amanda Stribling as Whitney did a great job balancing the range of emotion and challenges the character faces throughout this story. The strength and well-mannered woman everyone expects of Whitney, as well as the love deprived fragile woman, she is needing to find worth in herself before she can accept love from anyone else. Narrator Ryan Lee Dunlap as Ford did a great job bringing out the strong, supportive, loving friend. Doing a great job portraying Ford's willingness to be the supportive friend first even though he wanted so much more. Knowing that he had a delicate line to walk. With nostalgia, humor, teasing, chemistry and a pack of friends that can make it through anything together, even bumpy relationships. If you like friends to lovers, lighthearted humor, a fun read and a trip down memory lane, and two narrators that bring it all to life for you, then When I Come Around is the audiobook you need to add to your TBR next!
FMC Whitney grew up with money and a lot of expectations. She learned quickly that nothing comes for free and that everything has a quid pro quo. She gave the appearance of living the great life, but looks can be deceiving. She's trying to break a clean break and now that her husband has decided he has no use for her since she no longer can have his kids a change of scenery is exactly what she needs. Her next gig will give her that space she needs or so she thought until Ford shows up. MMC Ford has been in love with Whitney as long as he can remember, but he was the kid from the wrong side of town and her parents never approved. He now owns his own production company recording/editing sound for tv shows and movies. With everything that has recently with Whitney none of her friends feel she is dealing with it well and are worried about her being on her own, so when Violet pulls strings to get Ford working on the same job as her it seems like a win/win for Ford. Get one on one time with Whitney away from the friend group, but also keep an eye on her and be there to support her if she needs it. Whiteny and Ford have always had an easy-going relationship, teasing each other, a little flirting here and there, but have never crossed the line. With seeing each other every day though, the attraction and chemistry just becomes too much to ignore. They make a pact to be friends with benefits while working on the project, but no one can know. Ford hopes this is his chance to win Whitney's heart, but knows their friend group won't survive another blow after last summer a love triangle almost destroyed them all. Will Whitney find the strength she needs in Ford to move on from her past and stand on her own two feet? Will Ford finally win Whitney forever? Listen to When I Come Around to find out if Whitney and Ford are like dial up, a moment in time that won't last or like a classic car something that is always in style and lasts forever.
FMC Whitney grew up with money and a lot of expectations. She learned quickly that nothing comes for free and that everything has a quid pro quo. She gave the appearance of living the great life, but looks can be deceiving. She's trying to break a clean break and now that her husband has decided he has no use for her since she no longer can have his kids a change of scenery is exactly what she needs. Her next gig will give her that space she needs or so she thought until Ford shows up. MMC Ford has been in love with Whitney as long as he can remember, but he was the kid from the wrong side of town and her parents never approved. He now owns his own production company recording/editing sound for tv shows and movies. With everything that has recently with Whitney none of her friends feel she is dealing with it well and are worried about her being on her own, so when Violet pulls strings to get Ford working on the same job as her it seems like a win/win for Ford. Get one on one time with Whitney away from the friend group, but also keep an eye on her and be there to support her if she needs it. Whiteny and Ford have always had an easy-going relationship, teasing each other, a little flirting here and there, but have never crossed the line. With seeing each other every day though, the attraction and chemistry just becomes too much to ignore. They make a pact to be friends with benefits while working on the project, but no one can know. Ford hopes this is his chance to win Whitney's heart, but knows their friend group won't survive another blow after last summer a love triangle almost destroyed them all. Will Whitney find the strength she needs in Ford to move on from her past and stand on her own two feet? Will Ford finally win Whitney forever? Listen to When I Come Around to find out if Whitney and Ford are like dial up, a moment in time that won't last or like a classic car something that is always in style and lasts forever.
May 22, 2024
When I Come Around is the fourth and final book in the Carolina Classics series and is the 90’s, nostalgic, down on her luck heroine and a white knight hero, friends to lovers, workplace rom com of Whitney Moore and Ford Fischer.
Whitney and Ford grew up together, and while they were both attracted to each other, neither acted on their feelings because they felt they weren’t good enough for one another and out of fear of rejection. Whitney was forced to marry her POS husband out of desperation after she defied her parents by going on to study something in the film and stage make-up field. The moment those rings where on her fingers everything changed, her husband began to mentally and emotionally abuse her, she began to isolate herself from her friends to please him and gave up the job she worked so hard to get. However, a significant event forces her to finally face reality and she leaves her husband once and for all and takes her life back with the help of Ford and her closest friends. Ford and Whit end up on the same movie set and despite some initial push back from her, Ford manages to worm his way into her life and gets her to open up one day at a time while also having to deal with constant emails and phone calls from the rest of their friendship group wanting updates on how Whit is doing. Although Ford feels uncomfortable talking about Whit behind her back, he knows everyone just has her best interests at heart.
The more time Ford and Whit spend together the more their attraction grows but neither are willing to admit they love the other so Whit suggests a friends with benefits situation while they are away working, somewhat reluctantly, Ford agrees and the two embark on a hot, steamy, undercover FWB relationship, only deep down they both want more.
Will this duo overcome their past hurts to get to the happily ever after they both deserve?
This final installment in what has been a brilliant 90’s nostalgic trip down memory lane is brought to life by the fantastically talented Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap.
Ms Stribling gave an outstanding performance as Whit. I loved how easy she was able to switch from broken woman, to fighter, to wanton goddess, to taking back her life, Amanda did so seamlessly and effortlessly.
Mr Dunlap’s portrayal of the sweet, kind, caring and nurturing Ford, the guy who, despite the fact he struggles with his feelings, always puts Whit and her needs and feelings above his own was absolutely superb.
Overall, I loved this audiobook. Ms Grey couldn’t have picked a better way to end this series. I loved Whit and Ford, and even though Whit’s DV marriage mirrored my own and brought up lots of feelings, I must heap praise on Ms Grey. Unfortunately, one in four women, and one in six men have experienced emotional abuse in a relationship, and Ms Grey nailed the gaslighting, the narcissistic tendencies of both her husband and parents, and the mental and emotional abuse that made Whit a victim of domestic violence.
I loved every single book in the Carolina Classics series, however, When I Come Around has to be my favourite of the series as it resonated with my soul.
Whitney and Ford grew up together, and while they were both attracted to each other, neither acted on their feelings because they felt they weren’t good enough for one another and out of fear of rejection. Whitney was forced to marry her POS husband out of desperation after she defied her parents by going on to study something in the film and stage make-up field. The moment those rings where on her fingers everything changed, her husband began to mentally and emotionally abuse her, she began to isolate herself from her friends to please him and gave up the job she worked so hard to get. However, a significant event forces her to finally face reality and she leaves her husband once and for all and takes her life back with the help of Ford and her closest friends. Ford and Whit end up on the same movie set and despite some initial push back from her, Ford manages to worm his way into her life and gets her to open up one day at a time while also having to deal with constant emails and phone calls from the rest of their friendship group wanting updates on how Whit is doing. Although Ford feels uncomfortable talking about Whit behind her back, he knows everyone just has her best interests at heart.
The more time Ford and Whit spend together the more their attraction grows but neither are willing to admit they love the other so Whit suggests a friends with benefits situation while they are away working, somewhat reluctantly, Ford agrees and the two embark on a hot, steamy, undercover FWB relationship, only deep down they both want more.
Will this duo overcome their past hurts to get to the happily ever after they both deserve?
This final installment in what has been a brilliant 90’s nostalgic trip down memory lane is brought to life by the fantastically talented Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap.
Ms Stribling gave an outstanding performance as Whit. I loved how easy she was able to switch from broken woman, to fighter, to wanton goddess, to taking back her life, Amanda did so seamlessly and effortlessly.
Mr Dunlap’s portrayal of the sweet, kind, caring and nurturing Ford, the guy who, despite the fact he struggles with his feelings, always puts Whit and her needs and feelings above his own was absolutely superb.
Overall, I loved this audiobook. Ms Grey couldn’t have picked a better way to end this series. I loved Whit and Ford, and even though Whit’s DV marriage mirrored my own and brought up lots of feelings, I must heap praise on Ms Grey. Unfortunately, one in four women, and one in six men have experienced emotional abuse in a relationship, and Ms Grey nailed the gaslighting, the narcissistic tendencies of both her husband and parents, and the mental and emotional abuse that made Whit a victim of domestic violence.
I loved every single book in the Carolina Classics series, however, When I Come Around has to be my favourite of the series as it resonated with my soul.
May 18, 2024
Fabulous Story & Narration🎧 A Heartfelt Delight!
When I Come Around
Carolina Classic, Book 4
By: Karen Grey
Narrated by: Ryan Lee Dunlap, Amanda Stribling
Karen Grey takes us back in time for a wonderful second chance, friends-to-lovers, retro romance and the story not only captivates your attention the entire time, but tugs at your heartstrings too. This fourth book of the “Carolina Classic” series, and is Whitney Moore and Ford Fischer’s story, and like all the books in the series, it stands on its own. Characters from earlier books crossover into each other’s books and knowing their backstory adds some depth, however everything you need to know is in the descriptive details, and you will never feel lost or that something is missing. Whitney’s life is a mess, but getting sick and waking up in the hospital was just the wake up call she needed to get out of that mess and start over. It may not be a simple task, since she alienated herself from everyone, thanks to her loser of a husband, soon to be ex-husband. Thankfully, her friends for life were forgiving and still loved and supported her. Then there is Ford, who always had feelings for Whitney and he feels guilty for his actions those years ago, actions that drove Whitney away and straight to the man she married, except that it was not like that. Whitney getting back on her feet lands a job doing what she loved, working on a film set and doing her magic and Ford, who was in between jobs, was asked to work on the same show. The chemistry between them is electric and they could only deny each other for so long before agreeing to a friends-with-benefits relationship. Whitney had a lot to deal with, her family, her ex, all while trying to dig herself out of a hole and wanting to do it on her own, despite Ford and her friends wanting to help. There is never a dull moment in this book, and there is non-stop drama, a touch of angst, lots of heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. I loved how much the characters grew by the end, also loved the bonus epilogue, which is available to Karen Grey’s subscribers. It was great visiting 1999 again too, nostalgic, all the references to that time, including mentions of Y2K, popular TV shows and even the dial-up internet. Karen Grey, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life, and they understood who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting and was believable in every role. Stribling aced it as Whitney, grasping every aspect of her personality, and Dunlap did the same as Ford, and was equally amazing. Both were fantastic performing the roles of all the secondary characters, too. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and have you feeling them all. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to and their performance elevates the already fabulous story to another level. Thank you for another amazing listen
When I Come Around
Carolina Classic, Book 4
By: Karen Grey
Narrated by: Ryan Lee Dunlap, Amanda Stribling
Karen Grey takes us back in time for a wonderful second chance, friends-to-lovers, retro romance and the story not only captivates your attention the entire time, but tugs at your heartstrings too. This fourth book of the “Carolina Classic” series, and is Whitney Moore and Ford Fischer’s story, and like all the books in the series, it stands on its own. Characters from earlier books crossover into each other’s books and knowing their backstory adds some depth, however everything you need to know is in the descriptive details, and you will never feel lost or that something is missing. Whitney’s life is a mess, but getting sick and waking up in the hospital was just the wake up call she needed to get out of that mess and start over. It may not be a simple task, since she alienated herself from everyone, thanks to her loser of a husband, soon to be ex-husband. Thankfully, her friends for life were forgiving and still loved and supported her. Then there is Ford, who always had feelings for Whitney and he feels guilty for his actions those years ago, actions that drove Whitney away and straight to the man she married, except that it was not like that. Whitney getting back on her feet lands a job doing what she loved, working on a film set and doing her magic and Ford, who was in between jobs, was asked to work on the same show. The chemistry between them is electric and they could only deny each other for so long before agreeing to a friends-with-benefits relationship. Whitney had a lot to deal with, her family, her ex, all while trying to dig herself out of a hole and wanting to do it on her own, despite Ford and her friends wanting to help. There is never a dull moment in this book, and there is non-stop drama, a touch of angst, lots of heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. I loved how much the characters grew by the end, also loved the bonus epilogue, which is available to Karen Grey’s subscribers. It was great visiting 1999 again too, nostalgic, all the references to that time, including mentions of Y2K, popular TV shows and even the dial-up internet. Karen Grey, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life, and they understood who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting and was believable in every role. Stribling aced it as Whitney, grasping every aspect of her personality, and Dunlap did the same as Ford, and was equally amazing. Both were fantastic performing the roles of all the secondary characters, too. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and have you feeling them all. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to and their performance elevates the already fabulous story to another level. Thank you for another amazing listen
May 13, 2024
🎧Audio Review🎧
Narrated by Amanda Stribling & Ryan Lee Dunlap
This romance is set at the end of the 90’s and the last in the Carolina Classics series. Ford has spent his life pining for Whitney but he never felt worthy of making a move. Whitney grew up wealthy and Ford wondered why she would be interest in him, so he never tried. But not everything was roses for Whitney growing up and she did everything she could to hide the dark side and is still hiding it today. From the get-go, the story really grabs you with Whitney’s situation. Trying to get out of an abusive situation and overbearing parents, she had my heart bleeding for her. As she begins her journey out of the hell she was in, Ford is by her side. Whitney has so many insecurities around herself, her body, her talents, and almost everything and the author really beautifully writes about it and makes you feel what she’s feeling. And Ford is so gentle with her and understanding that it’s really quite beautiful. But he can’t keep his feelings a secret for too much longer. The push/pull between the two added some great tension build up.
Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap narrate and both were perfectly cast. Amanda has a soothing, southern raspy quality to her voice, which is perfect for Whitney in her vulnerable state she is in. Ryan’s southern drawl narration is ideal for his character that is confused about where he stands with her, knowing his feelings are that he’s loved her since childhood. The really felt the longing in his voice.
Karen Grey’s books are always a joy to read and listen to as she brings in nostalgic details from the 90’s. She has a way of getting the reader in the mood with the sounds of the time period. In When I Come Around, we have the old internet dial up login which totally sets the mood and I loved it. References to Friend’s episodes, making paylists burned on CD’s, remembering childhood slumber parties with games like “I believe in bloody Mary” and “Light as a feather stiff as a board”. It all enriched the story. Karen had me laughing so hard with the bedroom discussion on body imperfections. It was so honest and felt so much like real life. I loved it.
I highly recommend this book in the series to see Ford and Whitney finally get their HEA.
I received an advanced copy from Home Cooked books PR for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Narrated by Amanda Stribling & Ryan Lee Dunlap
This romance is set at the end of the 90’s and the last in the Carolina Classics series. Ford has spent his life pining for Whitney but he never felt worthy of making a move. Whitney grew up wealthy and Ford wondered why she would be interest in him, so he never tried. But not everything was roses for Whitney growing up and she did everything she could to hide the dark side and is still hiding it today. From the get-go, the story really grabs you with Whitney’s situation. Trying to get out of an abusive situation and overbearing parents, she had my heart bleeding for her. As she begins her journey out of the hell she was in, Ford is by her side. Whitney has so many insecurities around herself, her body, her talents, and almost everything and the author really beautifully writes about it and makes you feel what she’s feeling. And Ford is so gentle with her and understanding that it’s really quite beautiful. But he can’t keep his feelings a secret for too much longer. The push/pull between the two added some great tension build up.
Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap narrate and both were perfectly cast. Amanda has a soothing, southern raspy quality to her voice, which is perfect for Whitney in her vulnerable state she is in. Ryan’s southern drawl narration is ideal for his character that is confused about where he stands with her, knowing his feelings are that he’s loved her since childhood. The really felt the longing in his voice.
Karen Grey’s books are always a joy to read and listen to as she brings in nostalgic details from the 90’s. She has a way of getting the reader in the mood with the sounds of the time period. In When I Come Around, we have the old internet dial up login which totally sets the mood and I loved it. References to Friend’s episodes, making paylists burned on CD’s, remembering childhood slumber parties with games like “I believe in bloody Mary” and “Light as a feather stiff as a board”. It all enriched the story. Karen had me laughing so hard with the bedroom discussion on body imperfections. It was so honest and felt so much like real life. I loved it.
I highly recommend this book in the series to see Ford and Whitney finally get their HEA.
I received an advanced copy from Home Cooked books PR for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 6, 2024
Ford has been in love with Whitney since they were young, but felt she was always out of his league. Ford came from a working class family and Whitney came from a home of privilege. Whitney was pressured to keep up appearances but she only felt accepted when she would sneak off to be with Ford and the rest of their friends. Ford was always there for her when she needed him, but she couldn't show him how much she cared for him. She eventually married a man who was worthy to her parents, but lost the only 'real' friends she had. When she sneaks off to her friends wedding, she collapses and almost dies, but Ford is there to catch her. After her stay in the hospital, she recovers, but has also been set free to make a new life for herself. She is determined to also make amends to the people who have always been there for her unconditionally. Ford has felt guilty for pushing Whitney to hard to be with him before. He is excited to have a second chance at convincing Whitney that they are meant for each other, but he will have to help her heal first. When they end up working on the same remote set, they feel free to finally act on the feelings they've always had for each other. But when it's time to return home, will Whitney be strong enough to face her past and move forward a stronger woman? This story made me feel so many extreme emotions. Grey weaved a story about a very sensitive issue with honesty and empathy, making my heart break and then put it back together again. I loved how she took her time with Whitney and Ford, allowing them to heal, and become stronger, and know they were worthy of love. I also loved catching up with all their friends and watching them love and support each other unconditionally, and even meddle a bit!
Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling were so perfectly cast to narrate this captivating, emotional, and steamy romance! They completely captured these complex characters and made me feel all the hope, heartbreak, vulnerability, love, and passion they possessed. I was completely mesmerized by their storytelling as they brought these characters and story to life.
Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling were so perfectly cast to narrate this captivating, emotional, and steamy romance! They completely captured these complex characters and made me feel all the hope, heartbreak, vulnerability, love, and passion they possessed. I was completely mesmerized by their storytelling as they brought these characters and story to life.
May 2, 2024
“It’s not just our first kiss. It’s the first kiss. Like every other kiss in my life was something else entirely.”
When I Come Around is the conclusion to the Carolina Classics series and it’s one that I’ve been waiting for. Ford has been in love with Whitney since they were children, but she has rejected him at every turn. When she married someone else, everyone in their friend group wondered what had happened to make her turn away from them. Now Whitney is trying to rebuild her life with a little help from her friends, but can she let her guard down long enough to realize that Ford could be more than a friend?
Whitney was not what I expected. Her past had deeply damaged her and she was so afraid to trust her secrets with anyone. I liked how she began to take charge of her own life and to work to overcome the pain that she felt. I didn’t always agree with her actions, but I applauded her courage and bravery and work to rebuild her self-confidence.
Ford was a total sweetheart. His love, gentleness and patience was just what Whitney needed. He let her set the pace and he did his best to understand what she needed while still holding her close and letting her know her value.
Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling narrated the audio. Both performers were great as their respective characters. They brought the story to life with all of the emotion, humor, and strength that the story deserved. I loved listening to their performance and enjoying the book all over again.
“You’re my person, Whitney, and I want to be friends with all the benefits. Your partner in all the things.”
I did find the ending to be a bit rushed, but all in all, I enjoyed this final story in this series. It was emotional, empowering and full of heart. Whitney and Ford brought out the best in each other and their friendship made their connection even stronger.
When I Come Around is the conclusion to the Carolina Classics series and it’s one that I’ve been waiting for. Ford has been in love with Whitney since they were children, but she has rejected him at every turn. When she married someone else, everyone in their friend group wondered what had happened to make her turn away from them. Now Whitney is trying to rebuild her life with a little help from her friends, but can she let her guard down long enough to realize that Ford could be more than a friend?
Whitney was not what I expected. Her past had deeply damaged her and she was so afraid to trust her secrets with anyone. I liked how she began to take charge of her own life and to work to overcome the pain that she felt. I didn’t always agree with her actions, but I applauded her courage and bravery and work to rebuild her self-confidence.
Ford was a total sweetheart. His love, gentleness and patience was just what Whitney needed. He let her set the pace and he did his best to understand what she needed while still holding her close and letting her know her value.
Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling narrated the audio. Both performers were great as their respective characters. They brought the story to life with all of the emotion, humor, and strength that the story deserved. I loved listening to their performance and enjoying the book all over again.
“You’re my person, Whitney, and I want to be friends with all the benefits. Your partner in all the things.”
I did find the ending to be a bit rushed, but all in all, I enjoyed this final story in this series. It was emotional, empowering and full of heart. Whitney and Ford brought out the best in each other and their friendship made their connection even stronger.
May 22, 2024
This book had so much heart, I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was one of those stories that kind of sneaks up on you as it didn't grab me from page one, but it definitely piqued my interest. Initially, based on how we jumped right into things, I thought I was going to have a hard time starting with the last book in the series. Have no fear, this can definitely be read as a standalone, as all pertinent info is included. I do think I will go back and start the series at book one to fill in some of the backstory with the other characters.
This story follows Whit and Ford, who have really always carried a torch for each other, but their time just hadn't come yet. Ford is a bit of a drifter due to his job and doesn't really feel worthy of or able to sustain a real relationship. Whit has pulled away from her real friends and is just getting her feet back under her after a toxic marriage to her soon to be ex husband. These two have a lot of healing to do.
I truly loved the aspect of this story being told with the backdrop of the 90s, it brought back so many pop culture memories! I listened to the audiobook, and I loved how they included the sounds of dial-up internet connecting when sending out emails. The reference to handing someone a bunch of AOL disks so she wouldn't have to pay for internet minutes had me cracking up because I think I still have a couple of those disks in my mom's storage!
Speaking of the audio, I really enjoyed being read to by Ryan Lee Dunlap & Amanda Stribling. They really brought Ford, Whitney, and the rest of the gang to life for me. As mentioned, I loved the sound effects that were added and pacing was perfect - I never had to change playback speed.
When I Come Around was a great story that brought back fun memories from the past. I'm a little sad that this is the end of the series, but I'm psyched to go back and read the other books I missed out on!
This story follows Whit and Ford, who have really always carried a torch for each other, but their time just hadn't come yet. Ford is a bit of a drifter due to his job and doesn't really feel worthy of or able to sustain a real relationship. Whit has pulled away from her real friends and is just getting her feet back under her after a toxic marriage to her soon to be ex husband. These two have a lot of healing to do.
I truly loved the aspect of this story being told with the backdrop of the 90s, it brought back so many pop culture memories! I listened to the audiobook, and I loved how they included the sounds of dial-up internet connecting when sending out emails. The reference to handing someone a bunch of AOL disks so she wouldn't have to pay for internet minutes had me cracking up because I think I still have a couple of those disks in my mom's storage!
Speaking of the audio, I really enjoyed being read to by Ryan Lee Dunlap & Amanda Stribling. They really brought Ford, Whitney, and the rest of the gang to life for me. As mentioned, I loved the sound effects that were added and pacing was perfect - I never had to change playback speed.
When I Come Around was a great story that brought back fun memories from the past. I'm a little sad that this is the end of the series, but I'm psyched to go back and read the other books I missed out on!
February 19, 2024
Ford has been in love with Whitney since they were young, but felt she was always out of his league. Ford came from a working class family and Whitney came from a home of privilege. Whitney was pressured to keep up appearances but she only felt accepted when she would sneak off to be with Ford and the rest of their friends. Ford was always there for her when she needed him, but she couldn't show him how much she cared for him. She eventually married a man who was worthy to her parents, but lost the only 'real' friends she had. When she sneaks off to her friends wedding, she collapses and almost dies, but Ford is there to catch her. After her stay in the hospital, she recovers, but has also been set free to make a new life for herself. She is determined to also make amends to the people who have always been there for her unconditionally. Ford has felt guilty for pushing Whitney to hard to be with him before. He is excited to have a second chance at convincing Whitney that they are meant for each other, but he will have to help her heal first. When they end up working on the same remote set, they feel free to finally act on the feelings they've always had for each other. But when it's time to return home, will Whitney be strong enough to face her past and move forward a stronger woman? This story made me feel so many extreme emotions. Grey weaved a story about a very sensitive issue with honesty and empathy, making my heart break and then put it back together again. I loved how she took her time with Whitney and Ford, allowing them to heal, and become stronger, and know they were worthy of love. I also loved catching up with all their friends and watching them love and support each other unconditionally, and even meddle a bit! I really enjoyed this captivating, emotional, and steamy romance!
May 1, 2024
When I Come Around
Carolina Classics #4
by Karen Grey
Narrated by Amanda Stribling, Ryan Lee Dunlap
Now that is how to end a series. Karen Grey always pulls me into her stories. Her ensemble cast of characters keeps me riveted to my earbuds and this one is fantastic. Whitney has had her issues over the years, but keeping her parents happy has always been a must. That is why her marriage is so important. Until it isn't. Now her husband gone and her mother fit to be tied, she is on her own for the first time. Ford has always had a thing for her, and when he comes to the aid of job she is on, his protective side comes out full force. As kids, they had a chemistry, one that was never acted on because Ford came from the wrong side of the tracks. Now that they are in a different place and more mature though, will that chemistry still be there? I loved this book for so many reasons. Grey packs in marriage issues and decisions that were made, family drama and finding that trust in another to build on just to name a few. Loved the nostalgia that comes along with this series too. But my favorite not overlooking the fabulous love story is the friendships that stay strong. Over the years, it's easy to outgrow friends, but these people found that it was more important to cultivate and grow together. It's a fantastic series. And the epilogue( free for Karen Grey subscribers) sums it all up and made my heart full.
Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling are so good together, they made the time fly by. Bringing their characters to life, each found the essence of their personalities and brought out the emotions they each felt. I enjoyed their portrayal of the story and their performance.
Carolina Classics #4
by Karen Grey
Narrated by Amanda Stribling, Ryan Lee Dunlap
Now that is how to end a series. Karen Grey always pulls me into her stories. Her ensemble cast of characters keeps me riveted to my earbuds and this one is fantastic. Whitney has had her issues over the years, but keeping her parents happy has always been a must. That is why her marriage is so important. Until it isn't. Now her husband gone and her mother fit to be tied, she is on her own for the first time. Ford has always had a thing for her, and when he comes to the aid of job she is on, his protective side comes out full force. As kids, they had a chemistry, one that was never acted on because Ford came from the wrong side of the tracks. Now that they are in a different place and more mature though, will that chemistry still be there? I loved this book for so many reasons. Grey packs in marriage issues and decisions that were made, family drama and finding that trust in another to build on just to name a few. Loved the nostalgia that comes along with this series too. But my favorite not overlooking the fabulous love story is the friendships that stay strong. Over the years, it's easy to outgrow friends, but these people found that it was more important to cultivate and grow together. It's a fantastic series. And the epilogue( free for Karen Grey subscribers) sums it all up and made my heart full.
Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling are so good together, they made the time fly by. Bringing their characters to life, each found the essence of their personalities and brought out the emotions they each felt. I enjoyed their portrayal of the story and their performance.
May 15, 2024
Audiobook review: Narrated by Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling
4 stars for story / 5 stars for performance
I haven't read any of the previous Carolina Classics books, but I have read all the Boston Classics and loved them. While I may have benefitted with some backstory from the previous books in the series, I caught up quickly and enjoyed this book on its own. Karen Grey has a way of bringing back all the nostalgic feelings and in turn, she makes these characters feel so relatable. I absolutely love all the 90's and early 00's references, in the form of TV shows, music and more. The story itself is beautiful, a second-chance romance for the ages. Whitney and Ford are part of a close-knit friend's group and while Ford seems to have been pining for Whitney for a long time, circumstances did not allow for a relationship in the past. After a traumatic incident that leaves Whitney's life changed forever, they reconnect on the job and finally make some progress together. The star of this story, though, is the progress Whitney makes for herself. There is a list of content warnings available as Whitney goes through quite a bit in this story, but the author did an amazing job with representation and healing.
I thoroughly enjoyed the audio production of this book. Both Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling nailed these accents. They were also so talented in giving each character they portrayed individual personalities through small tone changes and nuances. It was easy to discern between characters. Not only were the narrators absolutely fantastic, the extra additions to the beginnings of each chapter were so entertaining. The old AOL dialup and group chats just added that extra flair that made this book standout so much.
4 stars for story / 5 stars for performance
I haven't read any of the previous Carolina Classics books, but I have read all the Boston Classics and loved them. While I may have benefitted with some backstory from the previous books in the series, I caught up quickly and enjoyed this book on its own. Karen Grey has a way of bringing back all the nostalgic feelings and in turn, she makes these characters feel so relatable. I absolutely love all the 90's and early 00's references, in the form of TV shows, music and more. The story itself is beautiful, a second-chance romance for the ages. Whitney and Ford are part of a close-knit friend's group and while Ford seems to have been pining for Whitney for a long time, circumstances did not allow for a relationship in the past. After a traumatic incident that leaves Whitney's life changed forever, they reconnect on the job and finally make some progress together. The star of this story, though, is the progress Whitney makes for herself. There is a list of content warnings available as Whitney goes through quite a bit in this story, but the author did an amazing job with representation and healing.
I thoroughly enjoyed the audio production of this book. Both Ryan Lee Dunlap and Amanda Stribling nailed these accents. They were also so talented in giving each character they portrayed individual personalities through small tone changes and nuances. It was easy to discern between characters. Not only were the narrators absolutely fantastic, the extra additions to the beginnings of each chapter were so entertaining. The old AOL dialup and group chats just added that extra flair that made this book standout so much.
February 8, 2024
“It’s not just our first kiss. It’s the first kiss. Like every other kiss in my life was something else entirely.”
When I Come Around is the conclusion to the Carolina Classics series and it’s one that I’ve been waiting for. Ford has been in love with Whitney since they were children, but she has rejected him at every turn. When she married someone else, everyone in their friend group wondered what had happened to make her turn away from them. Now Whitney is trying to rebuild her life with a little help from her friends, but can she let her guard down long enough to realize that Ford could be more than a friend?
Whitney was not what I expected. Her past had deeply damaged her and she was so afraid to trust her secrets with anyone. I liked how she began to take charge of her own life and to work to overcome the pain that she felt. I didn’t always agree with her actions, but I applauded her courage and bravery and work to rebuild her self-confidence.
Ford was a total sweetheart. His love, gentleness and patience was just what Whitney needed. He let her set the pace and he did his best to understand what she needed while still holding her close and letting her know her value.
“You’re my person, Whitney, and I want to be friends with all the benefits. Your partner in all the things.”
I did find the ending to be a bit rushed, but all in all, I enjoyed this final story in this series. It was emotional, empowering and full of heart. Whitney and Ford brought out the best in each other and their friendship made their connection even stronger.
When I Come Around is the conclusion to the Carolina Classics series and it’s one that I’ve been waiting for. Ford has been in love with Whitney since they were children, but she has rejected him at every turn. When she married someone else, everyone in their friend group wondered what had happened to make her turn away from them. Now Whitney is trying to rebuild her life with a little help from her friends, but can she let her guard down long enough to realize that Ford could be more than a friend?
Whitney was not what I expected. Her past had deeply damaged her and she was so afraid to trust her secrets with anyone. I liked how she began to take charge of her own life and to work to overcome the pain that she felt. I didn’t always agree with her actions, but I applauded her courage and bravery and work to rebuild her self-confidence.
Ford was a total sweetheart. His love, gentleness and patience was just what Whitney needed. He let her set the pace and he did his best to understand what she needed while still holding her close and letting her know her value.
“You’re my person, Whitney, and I want to be friends with all the benefits. Your partner in all the things.”
I did find the ending to be a bit rushed, but all in all, I enjoyed this final story in this series. It was emotional, empowering and full of heart. Whitney and Ford brought out the best in each other and their friendship made their connection even stronger.
February 26, 2024
Throughout this series, Whitney has been in the background, always in the other characters' thoughts, but kind of mysterious. She would briefly drop in, then disappear, leaving them to wonder what was going on with her. Finally, Whit and Ford's friends-to-lovers story closes out the series.
Ford has been in love with Whitney since they were kids, but always knew he stood no chance with her since she was in the upper crust of local society, while he was from a working class family. In this book though, we finally learn her back story as she suffers a serious health scare at the start of the book, which precipitates major changes in her life.
Six months later, both Ford and Whit are working on an out of town movie set together. Although Ford initially takes a sound job with the production at the behest of their friends to keep a friendly eye on Whit, the sparks between them burst into flames, and they fall into a friends with benefits relationship. Ford wants so much more, but knows he can't push Whit too hard or he'll lose her.
I really enjoyed the progression of their relationship. The book dealt with sensitive topics but focused more on the healing from past traumas and was hopeful and sweet. Ford tried hard to respect Whit's privacy and give her the control she needed to move forward in her life instead of being stuck in past destructive patterns. I also loved revisiting the late 1990's, a time before ubiquitous cell phones and social media. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ford has been in love with Whitney since they were kids, but always knew he stood no chance with her since she was in the upper crust of local society, while he was from a working class family. In this book though, we finally learn her back story as she suffers a serious health scare at the start of the book, which precipitates major changes in her life.
Six months later, both Ford and Whit are working on an out of town movie set together. Although Ford initially takes a sound job with the production at the behest of their friends to keep a friendly eye on Whit, the sparks between them burst into flames, and they fall into a friends with benefits relationship. Ford wants so much more, but knows he can't push Whit too hard or he'll lose her.
I really enjoyed the progression of their relationship. The book dealt with sensitive topics but focused more on the healing from past traumas and was hopeful and sweet. Ford tried hard to respect Whit's privacy and give her the control she needed to move forward in her life instead of being stuck in past destructive patterns. I also loved revisiting the late 1990's, a time before ubiquitous cell phones and social media. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 18, 2024
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publicity team. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I have been waiting for Whitney's story because she has had the most mysterious situation. Plus I wanted to continue the Carolina Classics series and see what is happening with all the five friends. With Whitney, it could be easy to think poor little rich girl but it's more complicated than that.
Whitney took ill at Violet's wedding and Ford takes her to the hospital. It turns out she was going into sepsis from a miscarriage. Her husband immediately files for separation. This is a timely issue today. She takes a job out of town because they will provide lodging. The other friends are very worried about Whitney and push Ford to become a conduit for them to know how Whitney is doing. Luckily, her new job needs a sound guy so Ford is able to get that job with his sound team.
Ford has always loved Whitney. But they don't really know each other. The comfort and caring of long time friends is there and the job gives them a chance to get to know each other more intimately while on their own. It's a little weird with a slow burn emotional and fast burn physical.
When I Come Around takes us through the emotional journey of Whitney and Ford building a relationship. They learn about each other. In a way, they each think they aren't good enough for the other. They are sort of committed to each other from start to end, but afraid to hurt the other person. Whitney wants to stand on her own before committing, after all she is separated but still married.
Ford and Whitney stay in their relationship, even when they are long distance. The rest of the group had various reactions but by the time they are more open about their relationship, they seem to be on board. I feel proud of how they tried to support and care for each other. I also feel badly for all Whitney went through. The sound effects of the AOL dialup for online email access was so .. familiar. Be sure to read the epilogue, which shows them all four years later.
Narration:
I don't believe I have listened to either narrator before. Stribling narrates the chapters from Whitney's point of view and Dunlap narrates the chapters from Ford's point of view. In this dual narration, I had the problem I sometimes do. Stribling's voice for Whitney was sharp while Dunlap's version of her was husky. They just didn't sound similar at all. I didn't notice or have an issue with Ford's voice. Otherwise, I enjoyed the performance and the voices of their friends. I listened at 1.4x speed which is a bit slower than my usual speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publicity team. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I have been waiting for Whitney's story because she has had the most mysterious situation. Plus I wanted to continue the Carolina Classics series and see what is happening with all the five friends. With Whitney, it could be easy to think poor little rich girl but it's more complicated than that.
Whitney took ill at Violet's wedding and Ford takes her to the hospital. It turns out she was going into sepsis from a miscarriage. Her husband immediately files for separation. This is a timely issue today. She takes a job out of town because they will provide lodging. The other friends are very worried about Whitney and push Ford to become a conduit for them to know how Whitney is doing. Luckily, her new job needs a sound guy so Ford is able to get that job with his sound team.
Ford has always loved Whitney. But they don't really know each other. The comfort and caring of long time friends is there and the job gives them a chance to get to know each other more intimately while on their own. It's a little weird with a slow burn emotional and fast burn physical.
When I Come Around takes us through the emotional journey of Whitney and Ford building a relationship. They learn about each other. In a way, they each think they aren't good enough for the other. They are sort of committed to each other from start to end, but afraid to hurt the other person. Whitney wants to stand on her own before committing, after all she is separated but still married.
Ford and Whitney stay in their relationship, even when they are long distance. The rest of the group had various reactions but by the time they are more open about their relationship, they seem to be on board. I feel proud of how they tried to support and care for each other. I also feel badly for all Whitney went through. The sound effects of the AOL dialup for online email access was so .. familiar. Be sure to read the epilogue, which shows them all four years later.
Narration:
I don't believe I have listened to either narrator before. Stribling narrates the chapters from Whitney's point of view and Dunlap narrates the chapters from Ford's point of view. In this dual narration, I had the problem I sometimes do. Stribling's voice for Whitney was sharp while Dunlap's version of her was husky. They just didn't sound similar at all. I didn't notice or have an issue with Ford's voice. Otherwise, I enjoyed the performance and the voices of their friends. I listened at 1.4x speed which is a bit slower than my usual speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
August 25, 2025
Whitney and Ford have been dancing around each other their entire lives. Drawn to one another but they could never sort out their feelings enough to get it right. When they spend years apart and life takes them on different paths, finding their way back to one another is brought on by Whitney ending up in the ICU.
As Whitney embarks on a new journey, post surgery and post separation from her abusive husband, she is finding her footing to stand on her own. Ford wishes from a far the best for Whitney and wants to rekindle their friendship but his feelings have never dwindled. When they end up working on the same project together, their proximity draws them together and the chemistry that has always simmered lights a fire as they explore this new territory with each other.
But Whitney is still very raw and learning how to deprogram her brain from all the control and abuse from her marriage and she doesn't want to jump into anything serious with Ford before she's had the time to start healing and find herself without the influence of anyone else. Ford is so far gone for Whitney he will wait even that much longer if it means that they will choose each other in the end.
I loved this story the most with Whitney's journey of self discovery as she wades through the lasting effects of life long abuse and finds her way through the pain to allow love in that was so well deserved.
Amanda and Ryan delivered wonderful performances that carried through from the first book all the way into this last one. This was my first time listening to Ryan and I'm sure it won't be my last. Fantastic job from them both.
As Whitney embarks on a new journey, post surgery and post separation from her abusive husband, she is finding her footing to stand on her own. Ford wishes from a far the best for Whitney and wants to rekindle their friendship but his feelings have never dwindled. When they end up working on the same project together, their proximity draws them together and the chemistry that has always simmered lights a fire as they explore this new territory with each other.
But Whitney is still very raw and learning how to deprogram her brain from all the control and abuse from her marriage and she doesn't want to jump into anything serious with Ford before she's had the time to start healing and find herself without the influence of anyone else. Ford is so far gone for Whitney he will wait even that much longer if it means that they will choose each other in the end.
I loved this story the most with Whitney's journey of self discovery as she wades through the lasting effects of life long abuse and finds her way through the pain to allow love in that was so well deserved.
Amanda and Ryan delivered wonderful performances that carried through from the first book all the way into this last one. This was my first time listening to Ryan and I'm sure it won't be my last. Fantastic job from them both.
May 22, 2024
This was a good ending to this series that followed a group of friends set in the 90's. Overall I enjoyed Ford & Whitney's story, but I felt like it was just missing something. I thought Amanda Stribling and Ryan Lee Dunlap did a good job of bringing this story to life. This was my first book with Ryan and I really enjoyed his performance.
I absolutely loved Ford and his love for Whitney. These two have been circling around each other for years. He has had the biggest crush on her for so long and when he tried years ago, he was shot down. He still carried that torch for her but he had no choice but to try and move on with his life, but that meant meaningless flings with different women over the years. He was always focused on work and his success as a sound engineer.
There were a lot of times that I just didn't like Whitney. She was way too back and forth with Ford. She acted like she didn't really know his feelings for her but I don't think they were a secret. She would want him and then push him away. He deserved better than that. Whitney had it in her head that she wasn't good enough for him or even their friend group. Eventually you get to the root of her issues and she is finally able to work through that. That was my favorite part about Whitney, her finally realizing how she was treated when she was growing up and why she married the man she did. She finally had her eyes opened, and then she was able to really see what could be with Ford.
It was fun to see the other characters from the previous books as a catch up with their lives.
I absolutely loved Ford and his love for Whitney. These two have been circling around each other for years. He has had the biggest crush on her for so long and when he tried years ago, he was shot down. He still carried that torch for her but he had no choice but to try and move on with his life, but that meant meaningless flings with different women over the years. He was always focused on work and his success as a sound engineer.
There were a lot of times that I just didn't like Whitney. She was way too back and forth with Ford. She acted like she didn't really know his feelings for her but I don't think they were a secret. She would want him and then push him away. He deserved better than that. Whitney had it in her head that she wasn't good enough for him or even their friend group. Eventually you get to the root of her issues and she is finally able to work through that. That was my favorite part about Whitney, her finally realizing how she was treated when she was growing up and why she married the man she did. She finally had her eyes opened, and then she was able to really see what could be with Ford.
It was fun to see the other characters from the previous books as a catch up with their lives.
May 24, 2024
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Whitney & Ford's story is exactly what I wanted it to be & more! I have loved these two since listening to 𝑰'𝒍𝒍 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒚 𝒀𝒐𝒖. They have been friends since childhood & seeing them get their story was a delight!
The way Ford has felt for Whitney since they were kids is beautifully done. Whitney's emotional health is not the greatest after some experiences with her husband & she turns to Ford's friendship once again when they find themselves working together. The chemistry that ignites is off the charts and undeniable. Watching as Ford helps Whitney through her feelings, seeing it blossom into more.....it was so refreshing!
What I love about 𝙺𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗 𝙶𝚛𝚎𝚢'𝚜 stories is the retro vibes. We get a lot of the 80s & 90s with her work & it never fails to make me nostalgic for my own childhood! I love the friendships she incorporates, the tiny details she adds & all her beautiful characters that come to life for me!
𝐴𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎 𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 was magnificent for bringing Whitney to life for me. Every emotion is strong with her voice and I loved it. 𝑅𝑦𝑎𝑛 𝐿𝑒𝑒 𝐷𝑢𝑛𝑙𝑎𝑝 had a way with Ford & it was absolutely captivating. Together these two narrators made me feel like I was a part of the group, listening to them tell their story of growth, finding oneself and falling head over heels for the one you were meant to fall for, no matter how long it took.
This is easy to read as a stand alone, though I highly, 𝙝𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙮 recommend you listen to them all! Fall in love with beautiful characters and a trip back in time with these stories!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Whitney & Ford's story is exactly what I wanted it to be & more! I have loved these two since listening to 𝑰'𝒍𝒍 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒚 𝒀𝒐𝒖. They have been friends since childhood & seeing them get their story was a delight!
The way Ford has felt for Whitney since they were kids is beautifully done. Whitney's emotional health is not the greatest after some experiences with her husband & she turns to Ford's friendship once again when they find themselves working together. The chemistry that ignites is off the charts and undeniable. Watching as Ford helps Whitney through her feelings, seeing it blossom into more.....it was so refreshing!
What I love about 𝙺𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗 𝙶𝚛𝚎𝚢'𝚜 stories is the retro vibes. We get a lot of the 80s & 90s with her work & it never fails to make me nostalgic for my own childhood! I love the friendships she incorporates, the tiny details she adds & all her beautiful characters that come to life for me!
𝐴𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎 𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 was magnificent for bringing Whitney to life for me. Every emotion is strong with her voice and I loved it. 𝑅𝑦𝑎𝑛 𝐿𝑒𝑒 𝐷𝑢𝑛𝑙𝑎𝑝 had a way with Ford & it was absolutely captivating. Together these two narrators made me feel like I was a part of the group, listening to them tell their story of growth, finding oneself and falling head over heels for the one you were meant to fall for, no matter how long it took.
This is easy to read as a stand alone, though I highly, 𝙝𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙮 recommend you listen to them all! Fall in love with beautiful characters and a trip back in time with these stories!
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