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Spring Hills Ten Year High School Reunion #3
Want You Back
She vowed Never to return. He promised Never to wait. Never say never.
Bethany
In high school, I was the bullied thin, painfully shy, awkward girl who vowed never to return after graduation even if it meant leaving behind Lincoln, the one kind boy who saw the real me. These days this ugly duckling has reinvented herself as a runway model, believe it or not. But trouble has a way of finding me and the only way I can fix it is to return to the town that never loved me and crash the ten-year high school reunion. It’s not my reunion, so I need a date. Will Lincoln, the boy with the golden heart, say yes? He will, right?
Lincoln,
Bethany was the girl with the soft voice and the broken smile. I thought she was gone forever. But nine years later, she’s back. She’s no longer the quiet mouse that needs protection. A lot has changed – but her special tap on my door tells me not everything has. One look, one touch reminds me that our shared history and special connection lingers beneath the rubble of her abrupt departure. Beneath the glamor, I still see her. I’ve always seen her. She’s back to rewrite her history and I only have a handful of days to remind her that not all her days were filled with darkness. Could this be our second chance?.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2024
38 people are currently reading
1079 people want to read
About the author
Mel Walker
43 books854 followersMel Walker is an award-winning rare bird, the male romance author. Specializing in heartfelt small-town romance, he enjoys telling compelling romances with all the feels. A native New Yorker and life-long frustrated NY Mets fan, he enjoys baseball, reading, bike rides, and writing outdoors where he absorbs the energy of the city.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
April 30, 2024
This is a new author to me and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this second chance romance. I say that because second chance is a trope I sometimes struggle with. I think the reason this one worked so well for me was the reason for the second chance.
I really felt Bethany's pain and why she had to get out and restart her life. She's a strong woman who had her trust broken so badly from high school bullies. It really is hard to move past that kind of trauma.
And Lincoln... oh man was Lincoln an amazing hero. He made me realize how much I miss the good guy in my heroes. They don't all have to be bad to enjoy. His love for Bethany and how he really came through as her hero when they were in high school won me over instantly.
I was worried how they were going to compromise so that they could mesh their lives together and I'm happy to report I was satisfied with how this all ended.
I just love it when I take a chance on a new author and it pays off!
I really felt Bethany's pain and why she had to get out and restart her life. She's a strong woman who had her trust broken so badly from high school bullies. It really is hard to move past that kind of trauma.
And Lincoln... oh man was Lincoln an amazing hero. He made me realize how much I miss the good guy in my heroes. They don't all have to be bad to enjoy. His love for Bethany and how he really came through as her hero when they were in high school won me over instantly.
I was worried how they were going to compromise so that they could mesh their lives together and I'm happy to report I was satisfied with how this all ended.
I just love it when I take a chance on a new author and it pays off!
May 1, 2024
I’ve read my fair share of “fade to black,” “closed door,” and “clean romances,” believe it or not. “Want you Back” would be in the “clean romance” category. What I did like about it, though, is that it flowed from past to present to tell the story of how not just these two characters, Bethany and Lincoln, have a past, but how the mean girls of Bethany’s past influenced who she became. Bethany, a well-known, successful, wealthy, famous model, has confidence now. The story is built towards the reunion where Bethany has to return to the small town where she would once again see everyone from high school, including Lincoln, her friend and love interest. And this stirs up positive and negative memories and things Lincoln kept from her to protect her.
The story was wrapped up neatly at the end. I did wish for more of Lincoln’s POV, but otherwise, I was entertained.
The story was wrapped up neatly at the end. I did wish for more of Lincoln’s POV, but otherwise, I was entertained.
April 29, 2024
Second chance small town romance.
This book was wonderfully written with real totally relatable characters.
Bethany ad Lincoln had a great connection and their friendship led them to a beautiful ending.
This one had all the feels.
Another great read in the series.
I received a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review
This book was wonderfully written with real totally relatable characters.
Bethany ad Lincoln had a great connection and their friendship led them to a beautiful ending.
This one had all the feels.
Another great read in the series.
I received a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review
April 3, 2024
Real, honest, flawed characters...you want to know. This is a second chance, small-town romance with all the feels. The fierce and genuine connection Bethany & Lincoln shared and the absolute beauty of their friendship provides a rock solid base to build this engaging story off of. Their romance is beautiful and heart tugging. I definitely recommend this book and the series!
May 4, 2024
I enjoyed the pace and style of writing, it did take a few pages to get into the characters and story but once I did I was hooked. The characters were likeable and you felt the different types of emotions that they go through. I couldn’t stop highlighting paragraphs and paragraphs of bits I loved. I think I highlighted most of the last few chapters. so many memorable quotes in this book.
After 10 years of being away from home Bethany returns to her hometown as a guest at the senior class high school reunion . She is now as a world famous super model and is reunited with Lincoln her first love who now runs his family owned bakery/cafe located in the town.
I liked that Bethany was able to turn her horrible high school experience of being constantly bullied into something good in her future , she came back unapologetically stronger, bolder and with so much confidence. She did come across a bit extra at the start when she returns but if I went through her experiences I too would probably be the same and more , especially in the town that held a lot of bad memories for her. I would definitely hang out with her.
Lincoln the MMC woooo! he was sweet, thoughtful, very observant and super romantic and can bake , I wanted to pull him out of the book and keep him.
The way the main characters complimented each other despite being opposite in various ways and wanting different things in both the past and present , they each had their passions they felt strongly for and both grew as individuals and together.
The book had some of my favorite tropes , also it was nice reading and learning a bit more about high school reunions as we don't really do high school reunions where I'm from like they do in the US.
✨Contemporary Romance
✨Dual POV
✨Past & Present timelines
✨Closed door🚪
✨Second chance
✨Soul mates / First love
✨He falls harder 🥹🤩
✨Friends to lovers
✨Small town
✨Interracial Romance
✨Opposite attract
✨Lots of swoon 😍
This was my first book of the series so it can be read as a stand alone
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book so all opinions expressed in this review are my own .
After 10 years of being away from home Bethany returns to her hometown as a guest at the senior class high school reunion . She is now as a world famous super model and is reunited with Lincoln her first love who now runs his family owned bakery/cafe located in the town.
I liked that Bethany was able to turn her horrible high school experience of being constantly bullied into something good in her future , she came back unapologetically stronger, bolder and with so much confidence. She did come across a bit extra at the start when she returns but if I went through her experiences I too would probably be the same and more , especially in the town that held a lot of bad memories for her. I would definitely hang out with her.
Lincoln the MMC woooo! he was sweet, thoughtful, very observant and super romantic and can bake , I wanted to pull him out of the book and keep him.
The way the main characters complimented each other despite being opposite in various ways and wanting different things in both the past and present , they each had their passions they felt strongly for and both grew as individuals and together.
The book had some of my favorite tropes , also it was nice reading and learning a bit more about high school reunions as we don't really do high school reunions where I'm from like they do in the US.
✨Contemporary Romance
✨Dual POV
✨Past & Present timelines
✨Closed door🚪
✨Second chance
✨Soul mates / First love
✨He falls harder 🥹🤩
✨Friends to lovers
✨Small town
✨Interracial Romance
✨Opposite attract
✨Lots of swoon 😍
This was my first book of the series so it can be read as a stand alone
I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book so all opinions expressed in this review are my own .
May 11, 2024
𝗪𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗯𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗹 𝗪𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗲𝗿
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
4.5/5 (rounded up)
🌶️ (Closed door)
I received an advance reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This was my first book by Mel, and it won’t be my last. I was instantly drawn in by her writing style, and stayed for the story. This was a refreshing read, most stories are heavy on the smut, and this focused more on the relationship. I am hooked on second chance romance, and this one is sooooo good. I love Bethany so much, I connected with her, and was rooting for her throughout. Definitely recommend.
𝘛𝘙𝘖𝘗𝘌𝘚:
- Contemporary romance
- Second chance
- Dual pov
- Dual timelines
- First love
- friends to lovers
- Small town
- Interracial couple
- Opposites attract
- Closed door romance
- HEA
𝗕𝗟𝗨𝗥𝗕:
She vowed never to return. He promised he’d never wait. Never say never.
Bethany:
In high school, I was the bullied thin, painfully shy, awkward girl who vowed never to return after graduation even if it meant leaving behind Lincoln, the one kind boy who saw the real me.
These days this ugly duckling has reinvented herself as a runway model, believe it or not. But trouble has a way of finding me and the only way I can fix it is to return to the town that never loved me and crash the ten-year high school reunion.
It’s not my reunion, so I need a date. Will Lincoln, the boy with the golden heart, say yes? He will, right?
Lincoln:
Bethany was the girl with the soft voice and the broken smile. I thought she was gone forever.
But nine years later, she’s back for my high school reunion. She’s no longer the quiet mouse that needs protection. A lot has changed – but her special tap on my door tells me not everything has. One look, one touch reminds me that our shared history and magnetic connection lingers beneath the rubble of her abrupt departure. Underneath the glamor, I still see her. I’ve always seen her.
She’s back to rewrite her history and I only have a handful of days to remind her that not all of those days were filled with darkness. I am ready for this reunion - is she?
Never say never.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
4.5/5 (rounded up)
🌶️ (Closed door)
I received an advance reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This was my first book by Mel, and it won’t be my last. I was instantly drawn in by her writing style, and stayed for the story. This was a refreshing read, most stories are heavy on the smut, and this focused more on the relationship. I am hooked on second chance romance, and this one is sooooo good. I love Bethany so much, I connected with her, and was rooting for her throughout. Definitely recommend.
𝘛𝘙𝘖𝘗𝘌𝘚:
- Contemporary romance
- Second chance
- Dual pov
- Dual timelines
- First love
- friends to lovers
- Small town
- Interracial couple
- Opposites attract
- Closed door romance
- HEA
𝗕𝗟𝗨𝗥𝗕:
She vowed never to return. He promised he’d never wait. Never say never.
Bethany:
In high school, I was the bullied thin, painfully shy, awkward girl who vowed never to return after graduation even if it meant leaving behind Lincoln, the one kind boy who saw the real me.
These days this ugly duckling has reinvented herself as a runway model, believe it or not. But trouble has a way of finding me and the only way I can fix it is to return to the town that never loved me and crash the ten-year high school reunion.
It’s not my reunion, so I need a date. Will Lincoln, the boy with the golden heart, say yes? He will, right?
Lincoln:
Bethany was the girl with the soft voice and the broken smile. I thought she was gone forever.
But nine years later, she’s back for my high school reunion. She’s no longer the quiet mouse that needs protection. A lot has changed – but her special tap on my door tells me not everything has. One look, one touch reminds me that our shared history and magnetic connection lingers beneath the rubble of her abrupt departure. Underneath the glamor, I still see her. I’ve always seen her.
She’s back to rewrite her history and I only have a handful of days to remind her that not all of those days were filled with darkness. I am ready for this reunion - is she?
Never say never.
May 2, 2024
I really appreciated this read. High school for some folks was a rough time. And bullying is no joke. This book makes you think about those days, whether you want to or not. Things come to mind like if you were that kid, or knew that kid. If you were silently complacent while it happened to another kid; or did you do something to help that kid. Bethany and Lincoln were those kids. He noticed and did something. More importantly, he showed Bethany that she was valuable as a human being. That she didn't deserve what was happening to her. All the more amplified in a small town where most folks have known each other generationally practically since birth.
I had to stick with Bethany for a bit because I realized most of that - at times -snitty bravado was overcompensation from years of that kind of abuse. It definitely triggered her in how she interacted with others as an adult. However, what she did do well was show her heart for others being abused the same way.
Lincoln was a stalwart presence in her life when he became her friend. Always got to the heart of the matter. Giving what was needed; and always speaking to her humanity. While Lincoln had his own adjustments to make and some errors to correct with Bethany, the love between them was all true and all heart.
The various supporting friendships were real and honest; and the bullies had a moment with adult Bethany. Sometimes people do grow up and perspectives change and are understood better. Time is a witness for all.
My only "problem" is that I would have liked another conversation between Bethany and Lincoln's mother sometime during that reunion. I think Bethany deserved that.
Overall, this was an unexpectedly nostalgic; but lovely read. Wonderful characters. They both got more than they thought would be possible in the end. It put a smile on my face.
Nicely done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I had to stick with Bethany for a bit because I realized most of that - at times -snitty bravado was overcompensation from years of that kind of abuse. It definitely triggered her in how she interacted with others as an adult. However, what she did do well was show her heart for others being abused the same way.
Lincoln was a stalwart presence in her life when he became her friend. Always got to the heart of the matter. Giving what was needed; and always speaking to her humanity. While Lincoln had his own adjustments to make and some errors to correct with Bethany, the love between them was all true and all heart.
The various supporting friendships were real and honest; and the bullies had a moment with adult Bethany. Sometimes people do grow up and perspectives change and are understood better. Time is a witness for all.
My only "problem" is that I would have liked another conversation between Bethany and Lincoln's mother sometime during that reunion. I think Bethany deserved that.
Overall, this was an unexpectedly nostalgic; but lovely read. Wonderful characters. They both got more than they thought would be possible in the end. It put a smile on my face.
Nicely done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 20, 2024
Bethany had a horrible high school experience. The only thing that made it bearable was her friendship with Lincoln. Lincoln was 1 year older than Bethany but when Bethany graduated she vowed never to return to the horror that she felt was her small town. Nine years later, Bethany is a successful runway model and she has had a string or “incidents” that caused her PR agency to drop her and a big runway show to remove her from their lineup. Frustrated, she plead with her old friend Jada (who is currently doing PR for her author brother) to sign her as a client had help her rehab her image. What she didn’t plan for is Jada’s insistence that she return home. While there she has to confront her old Demons and her first love who she left behind.
This is a great story. It may be a little emotional if you had any bought of bullying while in school but it is so worth the read. Bethany has carried the shadows of her past with her everywhere and it exposed itself in her determination not to ever let another bully win. When she comes back home she has to deal with both her past pain and her lost love. I have to tell you that I almost shed some tears at how sweet and touching Lincoln’s love for Bethany is. Their journey is at times hard to understand since you just want to shake them and make them talk but the payoff is so rewarding.
It is a pretty chaste romance book (sex is referred to but not written about) so if you need that move on but if you want an epic love story that has a great second chance love story and a coming home/redemption story, make sure you grab this book. I read it as a stand alone so if you don’t read the previous books you will be just fine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a great story. It may be a little emotional if you had any bought of bullying while in school but it is so worth the read. Bethany has carried the shadows of her past with her everywhere and it exposed itself in her determination not to ever let another bully win. When she comes back home she has to deal with both her past pain and her lost love. I have to tell you that I almost shed some tears at how sweet and touching Lincoln’s love for Bethany is. Their journey is at times hard to understand since you just want to shake them and make them talk but the payoff is so rewarding.
It is a pretty chaste romance book (sex is referred to but not written about) so if you need that move on but if you want an epic love story that has a great second chance love story and a coming home/redemption story, make sure you grab this book. I read it as a stand alone so if you don’t read the previous books you will be just fine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2024
Mel Walker was a new to me author but not anymore! I enjoyed this book so much that I have to go back and read the other 2 before it, and get ready for the next release.
This was a beautiful story that reminded me why it's so important to not let the circumstances from your past keep you from a bright future that's right in front of you.
Bethany was irritating me a little with her attitude towards the past. She didn't even realize that she had become the mean girl bully that she so desperately despised. She just could not let go even though everything and everyone was proving to her that people change.
On one hand she was this super popular model that had the world at her feet, but on the other she was still that bullied high schooler from 9 years ago that couldn't let go. Bless Lincoln and his patient soul. That man was pure golden retriever energy and I loved him. Bethany redeemed herself to me when she finally opened her eyes and saw what was right in front of her. Those that always mattered saw her and supported her, and just wanted her to see what. they did in her.
The best part for me was Lincoln finally leaving that cafe and getting his girl. The two of them shared such a heartwarming, soul deep connection and belonged together. I was so happy that he not only got his girl, but also got to live his life more for himself and less for everyone else.
Jada has a heart of gold and is best friend goals. I loved that woman!
I can't wait for more form this series and Mel Walker!
This was a beautiful story that reminded me why it's so important to not let the circumstances from your past keep you from a bright future that's right in front of you.
Bethany was irritating me a little with her attitude towards the past. She didn't even realize that she had become the mean girl bully that she so desperately despised. She just could not let go even though everything and everyone was proving to her that people change.
On one hand she was this super popular model that had the world at her feet, but on the other she was still that bullied high schooler from 9 years ago that couldn't let go. Bless Lincoln and his patient soul. That man was pure golden retriever energy and I loved him. Bethany redeemed herself to me when she finally opened her eyes and saw what was right in front of her. Those that always mattered saw her and supported her, and just wanted her to see what. they did in her.
The best part for me was Lincoln finally leaving that cafe and getting his girl. The two of them shared such a heartwarming, soul deep connection and belonged together. I was so happy that he not only got his girl, but also got to live his life more for himself and less for everyone else.
Jada has a heart of gold and is best friend goals. I loved that woman!
I can't wait for more form this series and Mel Walker!
May 13, 2024
This was another great book! I love how an author can use their platform to discuss real-life issues. Bullying is real, and it can leave scars that may never heal. A true friend is hard to come by, but that was what Lincoln was to Bethany. We all want acceptance, to be liked, to have friends, and to wear the stylish clothes. After high school, they went their separate ways with different views on life. Bethany went out to show the world how wonderful she is and get out of a town that bullied her. Lincoln stayed where he was the heart of the town to takeover his parents cafe and do good in the town he loves. Stubbornness can be a big issue, but after 9 years they are brought back together for his high school reunion. She shows up to show the town who she is now and demand respect. The love that grew years ago is still there. That love and lessons learned show her that not everyone was a bully. She can do good in the world, in their town, and help others to be in a better place that she was.
You may not be able to choose the battlefield, but you get to decide when to fight. When you realize what’s at stake, it won’t matter the battle. All you know is that it’s time to fight with everything you have.”
“Hop on that board, sun on the back of your neck, wind blowing in your hair, and remember the power of the word possible.
“There’s always time when you’re doing something you love.”
You may not be able to choose the battlefield, but you get to decide when to fight. When you realize what’s at stake, it won’t matter the battle. All you know is that it’s time to fight with everything you have.”
“Hop on that board, sun on the back of your neck, wind blowing in your hair, and remember the power of the word possible.
“There’s always time when you’re doing something you love.”
January 10, 2025
Lincoln has grown up helping his parents at Spilling the Beans the local coffee shop. It was the place to be in their small town not only for the food and drinks but to catch up with neighbors and the latest gossip.
But the last thing Lincoln expected was a limo pulling up out front and Bethany making an appearance. Bethany... world-famous model. Bethany who vowed to never step foot back in the town where she had nothing but bad memories. Bethany... the one he let get away.
I loved this story. It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Like all the books in this series, this story revolves around a 10-year high school reunion - this time it is Lincoln's reunion. The characters are recurring and I would suggest reading the complete series for everyone's backstory.
Lincoln loves his town and everyone loves Lincoln. All he wants is to take over his parent's business in the town he loves. Bethany was the target of bullies and the only good memories she has are of Lincoln and Jada. She promised herself to never step foot back in the town, but she is in need of a PR overhaul and her best friend Jada is the answer to her prayers.
I love Mel Walker's small-town romances, but I really had a hard time liking Bethany. I finally got there, but it took her a long time to realize that she had become the very thing that had her running away. Highly recommend.
But the last thing Lincoln expected was a limo pulling up out front and Bethany making an appearance. Bethany... world-famous model. Bethany who vowed to never step foot back in the town where she had nothing but bad memories. Bethany... the one he let get away.
I loved this story. It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Like all the books in this series, this story revolves around a 10-year high school reunion - this time it is Lincoln's reunion. The characters are recurring and I would suggest reading the complete series for everyone's backstory.
Lincoln loves his town and everyone loves Lincoln. All he wants is to take over his parent's business in the town he loves. Bethany was the target of bullies and the only good memories she has are of Lincoln and Jada. She promised herself to never step foot back in the town, but she is in need of a PR overhaul and her best friend Jada is the answer to her prayers.
I love Mel Walker's small-town romances, but I really had a hard time liking Bethany. I finally got there, but it took her a long time to realize that she had become the very thing that had her running away. Highly recommend.
April 27, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/no spice
My first Mel Walker read and I was NOT disappointed.
Want You Back was such a feel good read.
I enjoyed this book so much!
Bethany returns to Spring Hills 9 years after swearing she’d never return. High school was a nightmare for her. She was the thin, nerdy girl and was bullied relentlessly. The only person who ever saw her and treated her well was Lincoln. Now she’s a runway model, traveling all over the world and everyone knows her name. Returning to the town that holds so many bad memories for her, she’s going to prove to every one that she’s someone worth respecting.
Lincoln is Spring Hills golden boy. Always lending a helping hand, always putting everyone else’s needs before his own. Running his families local bakery, he truly loves his job and the town that Bethany left without looking back. It’s been nine years since she got on a train and took his heart with her. He’s never truly gotten over her, and now she’s back.
Their paths cross again in the wake of Lincoln’s 10 year high school reunion. The spark between the two still alive as ever but can they make it work? Lincoln loves Spring Hills, and Bethany cannot wait to leave again.
This second chance romance was so much fun to read. Bethany and Lincoln’s history and their dynamic was amazing. They were both flawed characters, and getting to read how they grow as people separately and together was beautiful.
I received this as an E-ARC from Mel Walker and The Author Agency but all thoughts and opinions are my own. 🫶
My first Mel Walker read and I was NOT disappointed.
Want You Back was such a feel good read.
I enjoyed this book so much!
Bethany returns to Spring Hills 9 years after swearing she’d never return. High school was a nightmare for her. She was the thin, nerdy girl and was bullied relentlessly. The only person who ever saw her and treated her well was Lincoln. Now she’s a runway model, traveling all over the world and everyone knows her name. Returning to the town that holds so many bad memories for her, she’s going to prove to every one that she’s someone worth respecting.
Lincoln is Spring Hills golden boy. Always lending a helping hand, always putting everyone else’s needs before his own. Running his families local bakery, he truly loves his job and the town that Bethany left without looking back. It’s been nine years since she got on a train and took his heart with her. He’s never truly gotten over her, and now she’s back.
Their paths cross again in the wake of Lincoln’s 10 year high school reunion. The spark between the two still alive as ever but can they make it work? Lincoln loves Spring Hills, and Bethany cannot wait to leave again.
This second chance romance was so much fun to read. Bethany and Lincoln’s history and their dynamic was amazing. They were both flawed characters, and getting to read how they grow as people separately and together was beautiful.
I received this as an E-ARC from Mel Walker and The Author Agency but all thoughts and opinions are my own. 🫶
April 30, 2024
ARC Review - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A beautifully written story of a second chance 10 years in the making.
Bethany Cardinal couldn’t wait to get out of Spring Hills and away from the numerous bullies after graduating high school. In her panic to leave her small hometown she leaves behind the one and only man she ever truly loved Lincoln Busby.
Lincoln returns to their small hometown and takes over running his parents bakery and is the go to man of the town. He doesn’t expect the one that got away to return after she swore she’d never be back.
Bethany winds up back in Spring Hills after an indecent at a runway show and is in desperate need to fix her image. She asks Lincoln to help her by taking her as his date to his 10 year high school reunion.
When the two are back together after 9 years apart, can they put aside their personal wants and choose each other or will they break each others hearts again?
I struggled to get into this one at first but once I got into it further I couldn’t put it down! Highly recommend checking this one out!
Thank you to Mel and The Author Agency for the ARC!
A beautifully written story of a second chance 10 years in the making.
Bethany Cardinal couldn’t wait to get out of Spring Hills and away from the numerous bullies after graduating high school. In her panic to leave her small hometown she leaves behind the one and only man she ever truly loved Lincoln Busby.
Lincoln returns to their small hometown and takes over running his parents bakery and is the go to man of the town. He doesn’t expect the one that got away to return after she swore she’d never be back.
Bethany winds up back in Spring Hills after an indecent at a runway show and is in desperate need to fix her image. She asks Lincoln to help her by taking her as his date to his 10 year high school reunion.
When the two are back together after 9 years apart, can they put aside their personal wants and choose each other or will they break each others hearts again?
I struggled to get into this one at first but once I got into it further I couldn’t put it down! Highly recommend checking this one out!
Thank you to Mel and The Author Agency for the ARC!
May 2, 2024
Bethany returned to Spring Hills 9years after vowing to never return. In high school she did not have a good time. She was the nerd and bullied and the only one whoever saw her was Lincoln. Now she is a runway model traveling all over. Being back home she will prove to everyone she is not that girl anymore...
Lincoln is the town's golden boy. Always the good guy, putting everyone else first. His also the town baker, so bonus☺️ it's been 9years since he saw Bethany and his never gotten over her.
Seeing her again at their 10year high school anniversary must be fate. And seems like the attraction is definitely still there. But how can this work, when Lincoln loves his town and plans to stay forever and Bethang can't wait to leave it all over again😬
Loved this story. Think anyone who's experienced what Bethany has can relate to this story. Lincoln was a dream really. Loved seeing how these two grew in their relationship even though they were both flawed. Loved that this was a second chance for them. Lots of angst, lots of will it work, won't it...
My first story by this author and it captured me☺️ Looking foward to some more💖
Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
Lincoln is the town's golden boy. Always the good guy, putting everyone else first. His also the town baker, so bonus☺️ it's been 9years since he saw Bethany and his never gotten over her.
Seeing her again at their 10year high school anniversary must be fate. And seems like the attraction is definitely still there. But how can this work, when Lincoln loves his town and plans to stay forever and Bethang can't wait to leave it all over again😬
Loved this story. Think anyone who's experienced what Bethany has can relate to this story. Lincoln was a dream really. Loved seeing how these two grew in their relationship even though they were both flawed. Loved that this was a second chance for them. Lots of angst, lots of will it work, won't it...
My first story by this author and it captured me☺️ Looking foward to some more💖
Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
April 30, 2024
When Bethany left her hometown with no intentions of ever going back because of the way she was treated throughout school. She was bullied so bad it left marks on her heart and soul so deep she even left Lincoln behind. Lincoln stayed in their town to run his family’s bakery that he loves in the town he loves, but when Bethany left and never looked back she took a piece of him that he has never got back. With the reunion on the horizon and fate throwing Bethany and Lincoln together again you can feel the spark between them that never burned out, but with so much hurt between them will they be able to find their happy again with or without each other? The pain that Bethany went through was one that you could feel bleed off the pages because at some point I think we have all been there and know how much it can scar us. The story between these two was an emotional and beautiful one as they fight for their second chance, but it will be one that they will have to battle for if they learn to let go and trust again.
May 20, 2024
I want to thank Mel Walker, author and Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the eBook Kindle copy of Want You Back ~ Spring Hils 10-Year High School Reunion ~ Book 3 that I won in the Giveaway.
Lincoln Busby is the son of the owners of the local bakery and an all around good person and a senior in high school when he meets Bethany, a junior. She is being bullied by three senior girls and Lincoln stops them. This is the begining of a friendship as she realized he really sees her.
Move to ten years later, time for Lincoln's high school reunion and Bethany, now a world famous supermodel comes back to Spring Hill for the first time. Their story is told in flashbacks where Bethany is bulied and wants to be invisible to becoming a supermodel now. The conection is still strong with Lincoln now running the family cafe/bakery and tied to Spring Hill and Behtany traveling the world as a model. Loved the unexpected ending.
Lincoln Busby is the son of the owners of the local bakery and an all around good person and a senior in high school when he meets Bethany, a junior. She is being bullied by three senior girls and Lincoln stops them. This is the begining of a friendship as she realized he really sees her.
Move to ten years later, time for Lincoln's high school reunion and Bethany, now a world famous supermodel comes back to Spring Hill for the first time. Their story is told in flashbacks where Bethany is bulied and wants to be invisible to becoming a supermodel now. The conection is still strong with Lincoln now running the family cafe/bakery and tied to Spring Hill and Behtany traveling the world as a model. Loved the unexpected ending.
April 29, 2024
The thought that grabbed a hold of me when I first started reading this book was all about the idiom: “hurt people hurt people.” Because, Bethany really wasn’t my favorite person when this story started. I think I’ve been low key falling in love with Lincoln since the start of the series, and seeing who he was in this book only cemented how very much I adored him. For good and ill, the chemistry between these characters crackled from the page. It broke my heart to see how very far apart these two were with how they saw themselves and each other. This story truly was a second chance with “the one who got away,” and everything about the solution to how they’d blend their lives left me sighing with happiness. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Spring Hills.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
April 30, 2024
Bethany Cardinal is a small town girl who escaped and is now living her dream internationally, she vows to never return, until her anger, resentment, and a bad decision forces her to return to her hometown in an attempt to revamp her image. Lincoln Busby is the small town boy who has never left and has waited and dreaded her return, until it’s a reality he wasn’t prepared for.
Lincoln’s 10 year reunion is the perfect opportunity, according to Jada, Bethany’s best friend and new PR rep, for Bethany to return to the tone she couldn’t wait to escape to revamp her image on the arm of the town’s beloved coffee shop manager and community leader.
The story takes you through Bethany and Lincoln and their entire backstory and how they shape and reshape their future from the start of the reunion to almost a week after the reunions completion… when they get their happy ending.
Lincoln’s 10 year reunion is the perfect opportunity, according to Jada, Bethany’s best friend and new PR rep, for Bethany to return to the tone she couldn’t wait to escape to revamp her image on the arm of the town’s beloved coffee shop manager and community leader.
The story takes you through Bethany and Lincoln and their entire backstory and how they shape and reshape their future from the start of the reunion to almost a week after the reunions completion… when they get their happy ending.
April 18, 2024
Oh gosh, this was not what I was expecting at all! But I'm so pleasantly surprised by this book. Based on the cover and the summary, I was a bit skeptical about whether this book could hold my attention and be interesting enough for me. But the book was so good! It felt so relatable, real, and flustering. The path everyone has to walk, from middle school to college, and I think many of us know how frustrating that could be.
I also enjoyed the dynamics, the lessons learned, and the personas behind the main characters.
The book had a good flow, I loved the present and past story-line, and it was really a heartwarming rom-com that I couldn't put down.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I also enjoyed the dynamics, the lessons learned, and the personas behind the main characters.
The book had a good flow, I loved the present and past story-line, and it was really a heartwarming rom-com that I couldn't put down.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2024
This is the first book I’ve read from this author, and I truly enjoyed it. It was definitely different from my normal reads as it didn’t have any spice. It was closed door, but the story, and the relationship between the characters, you don’t miss the spicy scenes too much. The love story between these two.. it’s beautiful. The former ugly duckling and escaped the hometown that brought her so much pain. She leaves the one boy who saw her. Vowing never to step back into their small town. But circumstances bring them back together. And old feelings reignite. It was beautiful watching them find their way back to each other. Definitely recommend this book if you want a sweet love story, about second chances, and finding that one person that sees YOU.
September 8, 2024
Test of Time
Bethany and Lincoln were two souls that offered each other the solace that the other needed. Lincoln was Bethany’s “knight in shining armor” while she fought her demons. However, once got her wings she was able soar but somewhat at the price of being like the individuals she disliked the most. Lincoln loved being needed to his own detriment. Finally, they were able to exchange roles and find the balance in the their relationship. The backdrop of the reunion was a perfect setting for the characters finding themselves.
Bethany and Lincoln were two souls that offered each other the solace that the other needed. Lincoln was Bethany’s “knight in shining armor” while she fought her demons. However, once got her wings she was able soar but somewhat at the price of being like the individuals she disliked the most. Lincoln loved being needed to his own detriment. Finally, they were able to exchange roles and find the balance in the their relationship. The backdrop of the reunion was a perfect setting for the characters finding themselves.
April 30, 2024
Want You Back by Mel Walker, in the Spring Hill Reunion series, is the story of Lincoln Busby and Bethany Cardinal. The primus of the story set in a smalltown with a ten year High School reunion along with a second chance had me excited.
After chapter two I lost interest, yes I completed the book. For me this was not a Mel Walker page turner as his previous books have been. I will continue to read his works, I am still a fan.
I received an ARC copy of this book above is my honest review.
After chapter two I lost interest, yes I completed the book. For me this was not a Mel Walker page turner as his previous books have been. I will continue to read his works, I am still a fan.
I received an ARC copy of this book above is my honest review.
April 30, 2024
Want You Back is book 3 in the Spring Hills 10-Year High School Reunion Romance Series by Mel Walker. It's an interconnected series but can also be read as a standalone as each book features a different couple. For me, Lincoln really stole the show in this book. Talk about a high school crush come to life but I also thought his character was just amazing and selfless. Reading about his and Bethany's second shot at a missed first chance is worth a read.
April 30, 2024
4.5 Long-Awaited Stars!
I couldn't wait for Lincoln to get his story! He has been the ROCK in Spring Hills, everybody loves him and it's easy to see why. I had mixed emotions with Bethany, but all in all she set everything straight. I loved the glimpses into the past, while I can see the hurt Bethany felt, I also see the strength she had in Lincoln. He is the absolute sweetest man Mel Walker has written. Thank you for the time capsule and the smiles!
I couldn't wait for Lincoln to get his story! He has been the ROCK in Spring Hills, everybody loves him and it's easy to see why. I had mixed emotions with Bethany, but all in all she set everything straight. I loved the glimpses into the past, while I can see the hurt Bethany felt, I also see the strength she had in Lincoln. He is the absolute sweetest man Mel Walker has written. Thank you for the time capsule and the smiles!
May 2, 2024
Lincoln and Bethany are a great relatable couple. They aren’t perfect and neither is their love story. A cute small town second chance with two people who were meant to be. They have this great connection and chemistry that pops out of the pages. A great friends to lovers interaction couple, they worked on the friendship first so when they get together it feels very organic. I enjoyed myself and will be looking into other books by this author.
May 13, 2024
Lincolnnnnnnnnnnn 😍😍😍
Dare I say he might be the sweetest book boyfriend I’ve ever had.
I love the way this story flowed. This was my first read by the author and I immediately went to go download the rest in the series.
I love when stories have a great storyline to pair with their attraction to each other. The only thing I would have loved to give it that 5 star is seeing Lincoln’s pov more.
Will post more reviews after I read the rest of the series!
Dare I say he might be the sweetest book boyfriend I’ve ever had.
I love the way this story flowed. This was my first read by the author and I immediately went to go download the rest in the series.
I love when stories have a great storyline to pair with their attraction to each other. The only thing I would have loved to give it that 5 star is seeing Lincoln’s pov more.
Will post more reviews after I read the rest of the series!
April 15, 2024
This is a well written small town second chance romance with strong characters in Bethany and Lincoln. The author takes you into their lives with friendship, connection, emotions and love. He moves the story fluidly with her descriptive scenes and delivers a beautiful romance.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
April 23, 2024
Want you Back is a small town second chance romance. Bethany and Lincoln get a second chance at their 10-year high school reunion and their chemistry is perfect. The characters are real and flawed and easy to relate to. I enjoyed this story looking at Bethany's trauma from growing up being bullied and Lincoln being a hero she needs.
May 3, 2024
I have never read anything by this author before, and I'm already itching to go read books one and two in this series! It was so good.
I related to this story on a personal level. As someone who was bullied in both primary and secondary school, I felt all the feels with certain parts of the story. Not just the bullying itself but the healing process, too.
This was a beautiful second chance romance. Bethany and Lincoln were real, flawed main characters who were very relatable. It was amazing to see their personal development, together and apart from each other.
One aspect of the romance that really gripped me was that their happily ever after seemed impossible without one of them compromising their dreams. This made the slow burn and the angst of Bethany and Lincoln's relationship feel even more real.
Thank you to The Author Agency and author Mel Walker for an e-ARC of this book. All opinions are my own, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I related to this story on a personal level. As someone who was bullied in both primary and secondary school, I felt all the feels with certain parts of the story. Not just the bullying itself but the healing process, too.
This was a beautiful second chance romance. Bethany and Lincoln were real, flawed main characters who were very relatable. It was amazing to see their personal development, together and apart from each other.
One aspect of the romance that really gripped me was that their happily ever after seemed impossible without one of them compromising their dreams. This made the slow burn and the angst of Bethany and Lincoln's relationship feel even more real.
Thank you to The Author Agency and author Mel Walker for an e-ARC of this book. All opinions are my own, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 5, 2024
This is book 3 in the Spring Hills Ten Year High School Reunion series. This was my first book by this author and it read great as a standalone. However, after reading this book I plan to go back and read the first two books. I loved how the author told the story of Lincoln and Bethany. It was a slow burn, but in the best way! Do yourself a favor and add this one to your TBR.
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