Over a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in the second grade, I gave Wren Tyler my heart.
I never wanted it back, even when time, distance, and fate kept us apart— because even as a kid, I knew I'd love that girl forever.
It’s not until years later that we finally have a chance to be together.
Finally.
I’ve waited patiently through every obstacle and impossibility, and nothing is going to mess up my chance at a future with Wren.
Unfortunately, my vengeful ex-fiancée has other plans.
Already embroiled in a battle for my business, my ex sets her sights on Wren. She slings lies and threats like well-aimed arrows, intent on ruining me and destroying the woman I love. Each attack tests our newfound love, and instead of weathering the storm…
USA Today bestselling and award-winning author, S.M. West, writes sexy, angsty stories about brave hearts and wild love, including, more times than not, heart-pumping twists and turns.
Apart from her infinite love of books, she’s a self-professed wine, chocolate, and travel junkie. When not writing or hanging with her family, she’s usually talking to her characters (in her head) or planning her next adventure!
She currently lives near Toronto, Ontario, with her husband and two smart and sassy daughters.
Pinnacle Book Achievement Award Griffin - Best Thriller Smash - Best Romance
Global eBook Awards Griffin - Gold, Romantic Suspense Scoring the Player - Silver, Romance
Global Book Award Griffin - Silver, Romantic Suspense
NYC Big Book Award Reverb - Distinguished Favorite, Romance
If you like plenty of drama in your small-town romance, you’ll love this new series set in the small town of Winslow Grove, MT. It's a place where families are close and public opinion is swayed easily.
Wren Tyler and Oliver Winslow have known each other since the second grade. Ever since Wren told a bully in their class he was a meanie and shared her sandwich with Oliver, she and Oliver have been the best of friends. At different times, each thought about them being more, but the timing was never right, and they’ve gone their own way, living parallel lives without lines intersecting.
When they get locked in the high school gymnasium one night, they’re forced to face their feelings for each other, and it looks like they can finally be together. Except, Dot, Oliver's ex-fiancée has other plans and will do anything to get her way.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one and can’t wait to read more in this terrific book world. Wren was really nice, sometimes too nice. Oliver was sweet but I wish he had more backbone and a lot of the drama would have been avoided. Oh, there would still be a lot of drama, because Dot is truly evil and deserves to die a death by a thousand paper cuts.
Funny, charming, steamy, and heartfelt, this is a terrific beginning to what promises to be a phenomenal series. It you love small-town romance with a great friend group, meddling locals, and a mean girl you’ll love to hate, then make sure you don’t miss this one.
All Of You- SM West Narrated by Robert Hatchet and Samantha Brentmoor
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
The one is *messy*. From the very beginning. Or before the beginning, maybe? I highly recommend reading the prequel novella, Close To You, first to get a better view into Wren and Oliver’s background. They get stuck in the school gym and go down memory lane, but that brings us to All Of You where they have professed their love and going forward want to be with each other, but Oliver’s ex fiancé is making that difficult, and like I said, messy! I loved this book so much I lost all track of time because I was so engrossed. The drama of the small town life of Winslow Grove sucked me in and I can’t wait to see what comes next!
Samantha and Robert did such a great job on the narrations. I’ll be honest, I signed up to review this one because of them listed as the narrators because they always do a phenomenal job. I don’t think I could have chosen a better pair to voice Oliver and Wren.
Thanks to homecooked books for the ALC. Thanks to myself for the beautiful paperback to annotate while listening to the audiobook. It’s actually a lot easier to take notes in the ebook while listening to the audiobook and then find them easily when writing a review.
All of You by S. M. West (new series: Winslow Grove)
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over: 🤩 You probably want to listen to the prequel Close to You first because they refer to the night in the gym quite a bit and you will have FOMO. It’s not necessary, but it’s so good and helpful in understanding Oliver and Wren’s story. 🤩 I could listen to Samantha Brentmoor tell me any story, especially with beautiful details like S.M. West writes. Samantha Brentmoor is absolutely stunning as Wren—sweet, sensual, and strong. 🤩 Rob’s voice is deeply delicious and seductive. I love when Oliver finally goes a little caveman so we can hear it from Rob! 🤩 Winslow Grove—small-town trope at its most manipulative but also its most supportive. You’ll find some side characters to hate and some to love. Thanks goodness both MCs are loveable. 🤩 Unrequited love, childhood friends-to-lovers, second chance vibes. 🤩 Library and librarian love. Wren is just so good, and I love her open communication and community building. 🤩 The need to keep the relationship secret is fun with some sneaking around! 🤩 Wren’s Pop is my favorite! I especially like his relationship with Oliver. 🤩 Tree house memories.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About: 💫 The wait on Oliver to get tough feels a little long. Thank goodness the caveman comes out, even if briefly. 💫 I like a little more detailed steamy goodness after the drama. Maybe even during the drama.
🩵 Small town romance 🩷 Childhood friends 💜 Crazy Ex-gf 🩵 Miscommunication 🩷 DRAMA 💜 HEA
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 Spice: 🌶️.5 Narration: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
You’re going to want to read the prequel novella, Close to You, before reading/listening to this book. I felt like I was missing some information because I didn’t know about the novella before I jumped in! But I didn’t let that affect my review!
Oliver and Wren were friends growing up, life being life drew them apart. But one night in a gym brought them back together. However, Oliver’s ex is not going to make it easy for them.
I enjoyed the book. I wish that Oliver’s character had more conviction. I understand there were so many reasons he had to keep himself from saying/doing/being what Wren needed. At least more quickly than he did.
Wren has a good heart and the best of intentions. Unfortunately the town is great at listening to the loudest voice which is spreading rumors about Wren and Oliver. There are some outrageous claims that are unjust. There were feelings of frustration and helplessness for the characters because of all of these claims and what they had to go through.
Rob Hatchet is fast becoming one of my favorite male narrators. His voice is so inviting and he matches each character he narrates to perfection. I could (and have!) listen to him for hours. 🥰
Is there anything that Samantha Brentmoor can’t narrate? No. The answer is no. She is the best female narrator in the business. Seriously, there are so many wonderful women narrating the h€ll out of these books, but Samantha is the best. Everything she voices she turns into gold. (Do I have a girl crush? Huh, 🤔 I guess do lol)
📖 “I want nothing more than for you to taste me.” 📖 “The name’s Twist or Oliver, I don’t generally go by Jesus.”
(Want to understand my rating scale? Check out the p!nned post on my prof!le over on the square photos app!)
Over a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in the second grade, I gave Wren Tyler my heart.
This book was drama-filled from the start, all set in a cute little town. The book was a lot of fun and by the end, I fell in love with every single character.
I didn’t know there was a prequel novella, so the beginning was a little confusing with the way it jumps straight into everything - so I recommend giving that a quick read, so you can fall in love with these characters even quicker than I did!
Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet are both amazing actors, and they did an amazing job bringing these characters to life and conveying amazing personalities and emotions. The narration quality was amazing from both sides, and they worked well as a team. It was such a delightful listen, I tore through it so quickly and enjoyed every minute.
First things first … I highly recommend you not begin this book before you read its prequel, Close to You. HIGHLY. I mean it’s not a life-or-death situation, of course, but you’ll thank me. #TRUST I received an ALC from Home Cooked Books very last minute and I should have been able to listen and review by the release date of the 29th, but half way into the first chapter I knew something was off. Thus began my listening of the prequel, which threw my schedule off, so here we are, 2 days after release. *shrug* I cannot say anymore on the subject because I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone, so that’s that on that point.
OKAY, so about this story … well, I enjoyed it immensely, but it’s not a romance. #fightme LOL
The best way I can come up to describe this story is by telling you it’s a journey of two people who, since they were children, knew they would be each other’s forever, and weretogether present day but had to navigate ”small-town mean-girl” shenanigans to live happy ever after in peace. All of this is really well represented in the storyline. The author nailed every single circumstance exactly how I know small-town living to be. It’s predictable and cliché, for sure, but also fun and very endearing because even though you know they’re going to win in the end, the writing style that SM West has had me captivated and invested. The love and perseverance between the MMC and the FMC for each other never wavered, and there was no third-act-breakup!
Now, about the narration … Sooooooooo, Robert Hatchet and my ears are never gonna be BFFs LOL but it wasn’t a complete loss. I didn’t really enjoy his narration, but I also didn’t stop listening, so there’s that. *shrug* There’s nothing not to love about Samantha Brentmoor so big smooches to her and her narration!!
After listening to Close To You, I knew I needed so much more from Wren & Oliver. All Of You delivered that and so much more. These two were simply made for each other. I loved how solid their relationship was. It was built on the cornerstones of years of friendship. And while there was mutual pining in nearly the entire friendship, the timing was just never right. And despite the appearances from the outside, the time is finally perfect. As with many small towns, the entire population is wholly invested. But as Dot, Oliver’s ex, is determined to “not lose what she has”, her hate and disdain spews through her pores & throws a negative impact on many of the townspeople. As Wren & Oliver strive to find ways to overcome the negativity, the rumors keep snowballing & they both end up losing things very important & dear to them. But something’s got to give! Will Wren & Oliver be able to weather the storm & come out on the other side unscathed? I will say…the level of anger I felt towards Dot at one point was so strong & realistic. This character is so well written that she nearly had me wanting to yell at my phone 🤣. And the way that Wren & Oliver were always just so level headed & planning ahead…I commend them, they are saints in the presence of evilness.
Audiobook Review: Samantha Brentmoor & Robert Hatchett both drew me in to these characters & completely engulfed me in the world of Winslow Grove.
All Of You by SM West is a wild ride full of small town shenanigans. Winslow Grove has the nosiest neighbors, and everyone’s business travels fast. Oliver and Wren grew up together but had a bit of a falling out and avoided one another for years (while secretly pining for each other). Eventually Oliver started a relationship and business with the mayor’s daughter, Dot. But after realizing he didn’t want to spend his life with her, they broke up, but she refused to let him out of their relationship in public. For two years he let her pretend they were still together. So after spending a steamy night locked in their old high school gym with Wren, things become awkward when he immediately wants to be in a relationship publicly with her, but everyone thinks he is with Dot. Wren is unfairly labeled as a home wrecker, and she and Oliver become the town outcasts. Dot is terrible and had me frustrated the entire time. I couldn’t help but constantly eye roll at the people in this town. There is a lot of drama. But I love Oliver and Wren, and found the whole story entertaining, I couldn’t stop listening! Thank you to @homecookedbookpromos for this ALC! Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet are amazing narrators 👏🏼 If You Love: 🤍Small Town 🌷Second Chance 🤍Childhood Friends to Lovers 🌷Spice 🤍Drama 🌷Dual POV 🤍The One Who Got Away Then you should definitely check this audiobook out! I recommend reading or listening to the prequel novella, Close To You first. I am excited to see what comes next in this series!
Book 1 in West’s Winslow Grove series picks up right where the prequel novella (Close to You) left off. And though I still feel the content of that prequel would have been better folded into the start of this first book, All of You was a satisfying read with an engaging story for two appealing MCs.
Oliver and Wren were meant to be and after years of missed chances they are finally trying to get together. Of course, there are forces conspiring to keep them apart, but one aspect of this book that I truly applaud is that,no matter how frustrating things got, they didn’t allow themselves to be manipulated into an third act break-up by falling for the contrived machinations of the OTT antagonist (more on her later). I liked the way they were together - great as friends and lovers. There are also some intriguing secondary characters introduced, so West has sewn some seeds for the identity of potential future MCs. I found Maddox a charming mystery, so hope his story will crop up eventually. The interplay between the mains and secondaries (the non-antagonistic ones) added dimension and helped round out the MCs. It’s enjoyable when more than just the central romantic relationship informs character development and that’s the case here.
The one element I did not enjoy was the overly cartoonish antagonist - Dot. She was a bit of a mustache-twirler, so her moves were telegraphed from the start. This meant that there were no real surprises when it came to her actions and reactions. Overall, this limited her intimidation factor, so she wasn’t as much of a threat as she was built up to be. The saving grace was that the MCs never bought into her bs and an avoided a contrived separation, which as mentioned earlier, was a nice change.
The narrators were great. Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet made a fine team. Brentmoor has been consistently stellar in every narration I’ve heard and this was no different. I thought she handled the ups and downs of Wren’s experiences really well. I’m less familiar with Hatchet’s work, though I have heard other books he’s done. He is solid performer and I thought his take on Oliver was also pretty great.
The audio was just an enjoyable listening experience. Recommended if you like a friends to lovers, where the MCs have had to wait a while to get their shot at an HEA and have no intention of letting it slip away. And for Samantha Brentmoor fans!
I received an ALC copy of the audiobook via Home Cooked Books. All opinions are my own.
All of You Winslow Grove #1 By: S.M. West Narrated By: Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet
All of You is an angsty, second chance romance, based around a small town that truly is a ‘everyone knows everything’, type of town. Wren and Oliver, best friends growing up never knowing that distance and time would keep them apart for so long. When both are back in the same town they grew up in, thanks to Oliver’s horrible ex fiancé who isn’t willing to give him up, Wren and Oliver might not be able to rekindle the flame that has started again so easily. This story drew me in with the second chance romance and knowing Samantha Brentmoor was narrating and it held me listening all day! I was hooked on all the twist and turns this story took, all the malicious obstacles Oliver’s Ex made them take, and of course I was loving every minute of Oliver and Wren rekindling their romance. Wren’s sister and Oliver’s brother were my favorite side characters in this book. They are both people I would want on my side when everyone in the town turns on you. Oliver definitely had his moments where I wanted to shake him and tell him to stand up for himself but what I loved most about Oliver was that his truth never wavered, when he told Wren his side of the story, that was the truth and even with Wren’s little doubt they stuck together and always had each others back. Samantha Brentmoor made my heart flutter the minute I heard her as Wren, she made me feel that extra bit of angst and held on to it for the entire story. Samantha and Robert Hatchet were beautiful together. The duel narration was incredible, the way these two can both perform Wren and Oliver and still make you feel the passion and chemistry of these characters is amazing. With so many different twist and turns this story takes, it never fell flat, their voices captivated you and with one thing after another the writing in this story kept you hooked.
🎧Audio released 3/28
🏞️Small Town 👫Childhood friends to lovers ❤️🔥Second Chance 🌶️Spicy 😵💫Crazy ex-fiancé 🎭 Lots of drama
Thank you Home Cooked Books for the opportunity to listen and review.
All Of You continues Oliver and Wren’s story from the novella, Close To You. Oliver and Wren are meant to be together, but these two lovebirds do not have an easy road. They are determined to overcome all of the obstacles in their way, but in the end, will their love be enough?
“We are meant to be together. No one else fits me like she does.”
I loved Wren. She is such a sassy, independent woman who has the biggest heart. She has been in love with Oliver since they were children, but now that they are finally trying to make a relationship work, it’s a lot tougher than she anticipated. Her strength of character and belief in Oliver is tested over and over again, but I loved how she never gave up.
“When we were kids, best friends, I always believed in forever with you and knew in my bones there was more to come for us.”
Oliver was a sweetheart, but at times, I just wanted to shake him and tell him to stand up to his ex, not matter the consequences. His love for Wren and determination for them to be together was swoonworthy. I loved how he knew they belonged together and he would fight anyone for that to happen. His ex was malicious and I wanted her to get everything she deserved after what she put these two through.
“You had all of me from the moment I met you.” The audio was narrated by Robert Hatchet and Samantha Brentmoor and I loved them as Oliver and Wren. Both expressed the emotions the characters were feeling beautifully with their performances and even though I had previously read the story, they brought nuances to the story that made me fall in love with it all over again. From a secret relationship to a vengeful ex, the issues that Oliver and Wren faced seemed neverending, but I loved watching them tackle them together. Through it all, their attraction, banter and love shown through the pages and I devoured their story. All of You was a steamy, angsty, and fun story that is full of heartwarming emotions, sizzling chemistry and love that cannot be denied.
Oliver and Wren have a tangled history. Best of friends throughout school, both had a crush on each other and hoped for more than friendship. Unfortunately, there were those who wanted to keep them apart and managed to do so through lies and manipulation. Since then, though they still think of each other and still harbour deep feelings, whenever one is free and not dating, the other has been in a relationship. Neither has ever had the courage to reveal their feelings and now they have lost hope that there will ever be anything romantic between them. Fortunately for them, Fate has given them another chance at love.
When both visit the high school one stormy night for different reasons, they end up locked in the school gym together without any way to contact anyone who could get them out. When the storm causes a loss of power, sticking close to each other becomes a necessity. The forced closeness brings all those old feelings to the surface, and for the first time they reveal secrets and regrets. Shared kisses lead to much more intimate, steamy moments between them. Hope that this time they could have a shared future is soon tempered by the thought of his ex who used to getting her own way or else. His ex has been spoiled and catered to all her life by her rich family and is a master of manipulation and wrecking havoc in her wake. She set her sights on Oliver in high school, and even knowing that he has always loved Wren, never stopped trying to claim him. She has played the role of his fiancée for years, even after they broke up. To be fair, Oliver let her do so. But now he says he is done and wants to be with Wren. If she can’t have him, his ex is determined to make Wren suffer. Will the ensuing chaos and trouble break up Oliver and Wren? Or will it make them cling tighter to each other and become stronger as a couple?
I found Wren and Oliver to be wonderful characters that I could only hope would find a happily ever after. I did wish that Oliver had had a bit more conviction and determination about him. He should never have let things go on as long as he did with his ex. His failure to do so only empowered his ex…..the wretched spoiled witch. This book was engrossing and commanded my attention from the first page to the last. I highly recommend this one.
Fantastic Story & Narration🎧 Riveting & Heartfelt!
All of You Winslow Grove, Book 1 By: S.M. West Narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor, Robert Hatchet
After listening to and loving, “Close to You”, the “Winslow Grove” prequel and I was looking forward to Oliver Winslow and Wren Tyler’s story. In that book, they ran into each other after not seeing each other for years and clearly they had unresolved feelings for each other and an undeniable chemistry between them, one they finally give into after admitting their feelings. This book picks up soon after, Wren had not heard from Oliver right away and was wondering why Oliver, who had one foot out the door ready to leave town, hadn’t called and if she’d be reason enough to stay. She was reason enough, but life was complicated, thanks to his ex, Dorothy aka Dot, the bane of existence and a thorn in his side. Holy moly, that woman was evil and so were the things she did. I despised her, and the power she had over Oliver and Wren. This is not your typical small town romance, it is an original story that grabs your attention like no other and captivates it the entire time. The writing, plot and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. There is never a dull moment, drama is non-stop, the angst and emotions run high and a steamy meant-to-be romance. S.M. West, thank you for another fantastic story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet are superbly talented voice artists and they continue to do an amazing job of bringing these characters to life, humanizing them, giving each a voice that is fitting to their personality. These two make a great team, their character voices have been consistent and the quality of the audio is top-notch. They set the perfect tone for the story, capture all the characters’ emotions and have you feeling them all. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to and their narration elevates the story to another level. Thank you for another fabulous listen.
All Of You continues Oliver and Wren’s story from the novella, Close To You. Oliver and Wren are meant to be together, but these two lovebirds do not have an easy road. They are determined to overcome all of the obstacles in their way, but in the end, will their love be enough?
“We are meant to be together. No one else fits me like she does.”
I loved Wren. She is such a sassy, independent woman who has the biggest heart. She has been in love with Oliver since they were children, but now that they are finally trying to make a relationship work, it’s a lot tougher than she anticipated. Her strength of character and belief in Oliver is tested over and over again, but I loved how she never gave up.
“When we were kids, best friends, I always believed in forever with you and knew in my bones there was more to come for us.”
Oliver was a sweetheart, but at times, I just wanted to shake him and tell him to stand up to his ex, not matter the consequences. His love for Wren and determination for them to be together was swoonworthy. I loved how he knew they belonged together and he would fight anyone for that to happen. His ex was malicious and I wanted her to get everything she deserved after what she put these two through.
“You had all of me from the moment I met you.”
From a secret relationship to a vengeful ex, the issues that Oliver and Wren faced seemed neverending, but I loved watching them tackle them together. Through it all, their attraction, banter and love shown through the pages and I devoured their story. All of You was a steamy, angsty, and fun story that is full of heartwarming emotions, sizzling chemistry and love that cannot be denied.
OMG this book is just WoW. This is a small town romance, where everyone knows everyone’s business. Wren and Oliver were childhood friends, best of friends but they were both never anything more. Both wanted more but both never told the other, and in time they moved on with their lives, moving in different directions. Then a chance encounter when both are in the same place at the same time, and they have nowhere to go (they end up locked up in the gym) gives them a night to open up about their feelings and they open up in other ways as well FIRE FIRE. Promises are made at the end of the end of the night but can they really get what they want and their happy ever after. It is going to be hard when Olivers ex is still in the picture. For the past two years he has let her keep the pretense that they are still together going, in the hopes that she will come clean and let the town know they aren’t together but the problem is this woman wants what she wants and isn’t willing to let Oliver go as he is hers. Until she comes clean that means that Olivier and Wren have to keep things private and keep their new found relationship secret. But the thing with small towns is that nothing stays secret for long, so when that secret comes out Wren is left looking like Ms Evil, the woman who tried to break up a happy couple. The knock on effect for her is devastating. Can the truth finally come out to give these two the chance if true happiness. This story is written so beautifully that you feel the love that Wren and Oliver have for each other, these characters are meant to be together, they gel and are the sweetest couple ever. Olivers conviction and love for Wren knows no bounds as he goes to prove to the town that Wren is the woman for him and to uncover all of his ex’s lies. This story will have you pulled in from the start.
I have been waiting for the second part of Wren and Oliver’s story since the novella I read back a couple months ago. “All of You” is a sweet, romantic, and heartfelt childhood best friends to lovers small town romance with some added drama that was so good.
The time has never been right for Wren and Oliver to be more than friends until now. They finally admitted their feelings and are all in with each other. But Oliver’s ex, Dorothy, is not ready to let go even though they had been separated for two years. She’s ready to manipulate Oliver, his business, and the town to make her look like the victim. But Oliver is done with her games and will do whatever he needs to do for him and Wren to finally be together.
Oh man, the drama of Oliver and his ex was something else. That woman had me so frustrated because of how selfish she was. But Oliver took the high route and tried to work things out like an adult. Although he was very frustrated with her, he wanted it all to work out with Wren so he was willing to do what he needed. That made me admire him so much. Wren has a heart of gold and I grew to love her character even more as the story went on. Her need to help the community shined through and she’s so genuine. Their relationship was built slowly over the years and progressed so naturally. I loved that they were able to find their happy ending and I’m looking forward to more from the series.
Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet narrated as Wren and Oliver. These two were so great and I enjoyed their performances so much. Samantha brought all of Wren’s sweet and genuine personality to life perfectly. Robert was great as Oliver and I loved listening to him as he brought his loyal and caring personality to life.
Wow, SM West can tell a story like no other. Each of her books gets better and better as they come out. This book is no exception, Oliver and Wren grew up together and always were the best of friends. Things happened and they separated for a long time, but fate brought them to the high school gym where they rekindled and admitted their feelings for each other had not changed. Oliver had been with Dot a totally conniving bad person (more commonly a term used for a family dog is a better description) but not really with her. He and Dot co-inhabited, but after time with Wren there was only one place Oliver wanted to be in Wrens arms. Dot did not go quietly and lied about a pregnancy and just about everything else in an attempt at the town’s sympathy and to hurt Wren and Oliver.
Fortunately, there were a few people who did not take Dot at her word and helped with Wren’s project of helping foster kids who have aged out of foster care continue on with their education. At a town meeting it all came out and ended HEA, but this book was gut wrenching to say the least. Several times I had to put the book down for a little while so my emotions could disengage from the story and calm down. Not sure how she continually does this to me but, Ms. West books always make my gut churn with pure emotion of how much more can these people take and when will the truth come out. How much more can I take before I have to put the book down and refocus that it's just a story. This book needs to be your next book to read. Put aside some time and tissues and read one of the best books you will read this year.
All of You Winslow Grove #1 by S.M. West Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor, Robert Hatchet
Woohoo! I am so glad to get Wren and Oliver's story! After Close to You, I wanted to see where their relationship would go, and what a rocky start to a true love! These two grew up together, only to be separated when they went to college. Always friends, but not crossing that line, the attraction was there, but never acted on. Now years later, they finally give in, only to have Oliver's ex-fiance, Dot try and sabotage them at every turn. Will their love stand the test or will Oliver give into the Dot's demands? This is so much fun. No, not the things the two have to go through, but the small town romance, the gossip mill and the family drama. It's everything I love about SM West and her writing style. She gives it all the feels, and with Oliver, he is full of emotions. Loyalty, trust and love all pour out of this man. Wren stands by him through thick and thin which is a testament to their feelings. And the good things these two bring to the town is just heartwarming. I loved this book and can't wait to see what else happens in Winslow Grove.
Brought to life by two of my favorites, Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet give all the feels to the story. Brentmoor is Wren, steadfast with her feelings, determined for her cause and passionate for her man. Hatchet brings out his loyalty and loving nature. This team is a one-click for me because I know I will be in for treat and this book is no exception!
Oh my goodness....I absolutely LOVE Oliver and Wren! I knew after listening to their prequel that their story was going to be great, and it was. These childhood friends-to-lovers are absolutely meant to be. The love that Oliver has always seemed to carry in his heart for Wren is breathtaking. Any woman who thought she stood a chance at winning his heart is sadly mistaken....and that means Dott!
Wren is so deserving of Oliver's love. Unbeknownst to her he had always had a thing for her and she him but of course neither one of them ever said anything. She has a good heart and wants to help others. Just when she finally gets Oliver the other important thing in her life is in jeopardy and that is the foundation she is trying to form to help foster teens heading into college! And of course it is none other than Dott, Oliver's ex, that is wrecking havoc on the two of them and what they have built in their lives over the years.
Dott is one of those characters you will absolutely despise because she is determined to keep Oliver and Wren apart. She is the epitome of a mean girl in adult form. Thankfully Oliver and Wren love each other entirely too much to let her stand in their way.
This series is off to a fantastic start and I cannot wait to get deeper into it. I need to know more about Oliver's brother and Wren's sister!!!!!
Now for the narrators....Robert and Samantha are simply amazing!!!! They are both narrators I thoroughly enjoy listening to and match Oliver and Wren so well. When Oliver has his moments of internal panic thinking Robert portrayed it perfectly. Samantha has the type of voice that conveys love so easily and any conversation between her and a side character has just that.
Audiobook Review - ALC provided by Home Cooked Books and SM West.
I really enjoyed listening to this series starter from SM West. It was a small town, friends to lovers story that had plenty of angst / drama.
Oliver and Wren were childhood friends who always loved one another, but for just couldn't seem to ever get their timing right. Finally, just when it seems that that timing is finally on their side, their world's come crashing down around them. From the blurb, we already know that Oliver's biggest mistake - aka his ex fiancée - is the driving force behind all of their problems.
When I first started listening, I felt like part of the book was missing - like I had missed some important information. It was only after I looked the book up on the Kindle store that I realized there is a prequel novella. While I did get up to speed by chapter 3 or so, I felt I really could have benefited from reading the prequel.
I loved that these two were committed to making their relationship work, no matter what they had to face. I just wish that there had been a little more communication on Oliver's side to avoid some of the blindside attacks that Wren had to face. In a book with so much drama, I was happy that there was no third act breakup and that they finally got their HEA.
Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet did a wonderful job narrating and bringing Wren and Oliver's characters to life. I was so convinced by their voice acting and the story, that I found myself actually talking back to the book while listening during some of the more frustrating drama moments!
I was able to get so absorbed in this story that I listened to this almost from start to finish on a road trip to San Francisco without having one moment of road rage lol. I would definitely recommend this to fans of small town romance. I can't wait to see what happens next in Winslow Grove.
All of You is the first book in the Winslow Grove series, but it can be read as a standalone. There is a prequel novella though, Close to You. I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to read, but it does give a little more to Wren and Oliver’s backstory.
Wren and Oliver had always had a crush on each other, but they were never together. Now they both know how the other feels about them, and they finally have their chance to be together. But…there are still obstacles in the way, and things get messy.
These two had so much chemistry and love between them. I really like how strong and independent Wren was. And she had such a big heart, always thinking of others and trying to help them.
Oliver was really sweet and always let Wren know how he felt. I didn’t particular like the way he handled things with his ex, but I guess it made sense (considering how crazy she was).
Wren and Oliver truly went through a lot to be together. I mean, in a small town where everyone knows everyone and everything, it wasn’t easy to escape the nasty comments. But they did it, and they finally got their HEA.
Audio: 5 stars Narrators: Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet Style: Dual
Samantha and Robert are two of my favorite narrators, so I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed with their performance. They did an amazing job capturing all the emotions of their respective characters, and they truly brought the story to life.
(Audio Review) All of You is the 1st book in the Winslow series and dives into the romance of Wren and Oliver. Although it’s a standalone novel, you’ll find the context of their story easier to understand if you read the prequel beforehand.
Basically, Wren and Oliver were childhood friends who had feelings for each other, even back then. Circumstances caused them to drift apart and they never got the chance to cultivate their romance then. A chance encounter (seen in the prequel) brings them back into each other’s lives. After which, they decide to (finally) pursue their feelings and (finally) give their romance a go. Although, their feelings for each other are pure, and it seems like it would be so easy to just be together, they encounter some problems in the form of Oliver’s ex-fiancée, who is hell bent on destroying Wren and Oliver’s burgeoning relationship.
This book was really enjoyable. Wren and Oliver were so cute together. You could see their love for each other, and their connection was strong. I was rooting for them throughout!
If you like your romance drama filled, this is the book for you. Also, if you’re in need for some small-town, friends-to-lovers, second-chance romance goodness, this book also features these tropes.
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor & Robert Hatchet, their dual narrations were excellent. The performances from both were easy to listen to, helping bring the characters, and the story to life! I highly recommend the audiobook version of this story.
I received a complimentary ALC from Home Cooked Books and all opinions are my own.
🎧Audio Review🎧 Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor and Robert hatchet
This continues from the prequel novella Close to You, which I suggest is read first to give some background about these characters.
Oliver and Wren, were friends growing up who have pined for each other but it’s never been the right time. They’ve waited years as obstacles kept getting in their path. Now might be their chance. So, when they do finally try and take that chance, you know there’s going to be resistance coming from somewhere. It makes for great tension. Add to that small town narrow mindedness with judgmental residents, a crazy ex-girlfriend and we have a melting pot of angsty goodness.
This is the first book I’ve listened to with Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet narrating together. This is a great pairing and Samantha is so good at the vulnerable emotions for Wren. Robert’s performance really captured Oliver’s love for Wren.
A few things didn’t work for me with the plot. I felt there were a few too many “misunderstandings” or a delay in telling the truth just to further the angst. I also thought Wren jumped to conclusions too quickly about rumors she heard without asking Oliver what was going on.
Overall, the I really liked this sweat small town romance with a narration that was stellar.
I received an advanced copy from Home Cooked Books. All opinions are my own.
All Of You by S.M. West is an angsty friends-to-lovers with heaps of small-town scandal. Oliver Winslow and Wren Tyler’s love story picks up immediately following the events of Close to You (the series prequel). If you like your steamy small-town romance with a bit of an edge and a whole lot of heart, S.M. West does not disappoint! Oliver and Wren finally have their shot at love and happiness, if only an entitled, conniving, toxic ex would stand aside. S.M.’s well-developed ancillary characters were intriguing. Dot Malone’s delulu, relentless scheming made me want to throttle her. Wren’s dad and Coach tug at the heartstrings with their mentor wisdom, Buckle up, this meant-to-be, mutual pining, hometown sweethearts, hardfought HEA takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster, and it’s well-worth the ride.
Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet reprise their roles as Wren and Oliver in All Of You. Samantha is fabulous as the brilliant, dazzling, resilient librarian, Wren. Have you heard her growly dude voice?! Swoon. Robert Hatchet gives a swoon-worthy performance as the genuine, charismatic, entrepreneur Oliver. Samantha And Robert nailed the dual narration of All of You. Do yourself a favor and pick up Close to You to binge the entire fling-to-forever saga now!
#Allofyou by #SMWest is the sequel to the novella #CloseToYou and #1 of the #WinslowGroveSeries
It is important to read the books in order to get the full picture to see how Wren and "Twist" are reunited after being estranged friends and ultimately become lovers.
I loved #ClosetoYou and was really looking forward to reading this book, but it turned into a rage read! I hadn't understood the need to hurl a book across the room before, but this book! Ugh!
I felt so enraged that at times, I wanted to DNF whilst at the same time needed to know what happened to the wicked witch of the north!! Talk about #OWDrama - I'm surprised no one took out a hit on her!!
Without giving anything away, Twist has to deal with his ex-girlfriend, Dot, who literally tries everything to ruin both their lives. I just wanted them both to have more of a backbone and Dot to get her comeuppance, but the book focused on them being wet and weedy and Dot well ... hmmm!
Wren's education programme was awesome, and I was so pleased with the outcome for Jack. It would be nice to see a book about him.
The dual narration was excellent by #samanthabrentmoor and #roberthatchet
Thank you #HomeCookedBooks for providing a complimentary copy of this book, and I confirm all opinions are my own.
Wren Tyler and Oliver "Twist" Winslow pick up where the prequel leaves off. This didn't go in the direction I was hoping for, but I'm not complaining. These two make my heart happy, well, when Dorothy "Dot" Malone isn't getting in the way.
There were a couple of times that the level of drama / angst was too much for me. Those episodes aside, I love Oliver and Wren together. They just let Dot run roughshod over them way too much and for too long.
There are a couple of folks in Winslow Grove that I'm not keen on, but I can't wait to see more HEAs in this idyllic setting.
As mentioned, there's a prequel to this, Close to You. Do you have to read it? No, but there are things covered in it that are referenced and not fully explained. I definitely recommend starting with the prequel.
I received an author's copy of the audio book. The narrators are Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet, both of whom I continue to enjoy.
This book continues Wren and Oliver's story right were "Close to You" left off ... so make sure you read the prequel first. I felt so sorry for Wren and Oliver ... how can so many bad things happen to two people? I loved how Oliver's love for Wren never waivered once they left the gym that day ... swoon! And I loved how Wren did her own thing and believed in her own abilities. Oliver's ex-fiancé Dot ... what a piece of work! I would have loved to push her off a cliff. I just don't understand why Oliver gave Dot so much time to tell her family and friends that the were no longer a couple. I can't wait for the next book in the series as the author set up a whole cast of characters that I know will have great stories to tell.
Wren and Oliver have had a crush on each other since they were pre-teens, each one never let their feelings for the other known. After that night they were stranded in the gym during a storm ... just the two of them, they could no longer hide their feelings for one another. But outside forces are keeping them apart, with Oliver's ex-fiancé Dot being the biggest problem.
I loved the way these two came together after such history between them in the prequel Close to You, but being together and ridding Olivier of his obligations towards Dot, his ex-partner, proved to be extremely drama filled taking Wren down in the crossfire as well. The story was well written and easily read but wow, the drama was almost overwhelming as Olivier struggled in the face of Dot's onslaught to take charge of his life and the spiralling situation, threatening to destroy not only his relationship with Wren but everything she'd worked so hard to achieve as well. As the book drew closer and closer to the end, I was worried we wouldn't get a satisfactory outcome, but all ended well if a little too easily in the end. I spent a lot of the book wanting to light a fire under Olivier as he let his ex walk all over him and damage his reputation and that of Wren’s as well, a nice guy but weak and that spoilt it a little for me. There's potential for interesting stories to come from Winslow Grove so I look forward to seeing what happens next in the series.
I enjoyed this small town friends to lovers romance. I thought the narration by Samantha Brentmoor and Robert Hatchet were perfect for this story. They were able to convey the feelings of the characters perfectly. Oliver and Wren had to work hard for their relationship. This story does pick up right after Close to You (which I recommend because you get the beginning of the story of Oliver and Wren).
People from their pasts have been trying to keep these two apart since school and nothing has changed as Oliver's ex is determined to get what she wants and that's Oliver. Every single time Oliver and Wren take a step forward in their relationship, his ex comes in and pushes them 5 steps back. Every time they get one thing sorted out, she brings something new to add more drama.
While I was a bit frustrated that most of the story revolved around the issues Oliver's ex brought forward, these two didn't let that sway them. They knew they belonged together and were a united front, no matter who was telling them they should do something otherwise.
I'm interested to see where this series will take us in the small town of Winslow Grove.