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Our Final Encore
Before he was an indie rock sensation, Alex Anderson was mine.
My best friend, my first love, the person who knew me better than I knew myself. Until he walked away and carelessly threw away what we had. Now he's back in our small town, acting like he can easily pick up the pieces of our broken relationship. I have to do whatever it takes to protect not only my own heart, but also my unborn baby's.
The first day I laid eyes on Opal Lancaster I knew she was the only girl for me.
It didn't matter that we were only twelve years old. Too many mistakes and miscommunications caused our relationship to slip through my hands, but now I'm back in Willow Grove for good, and I'm determined to prove to her that the man I am now isn't like the boy I was then. I'll do whatever it takes to show her I can take care of her and our child.
My best friend, my first love, the person who knew me better than I knew myself. Until he walked away and carelessly threw away what we had. Now he's back in our small town, acting like he can easily pick up the pieces of our broken relationship. I have to do whatever it takes to protect not only my own heart, but also my unborn baby's.
The first day I laid eyes on Opal Lancaster I knew she was the only girl for me.
It didn't matter that we were only twelve years old. Too many mistakes and miscommunications caused our relationship to slip through my hands, but now I'm back in Willow Grove for good, and I'm determined to prove to her that the man I am now isn't like the boy I was then. I'll do whatever it takes to show her I can take care of her and our child.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2024
47 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 20, 2024
Good quick read
I enjoyed this story. It was easy to read and I knocked it over in an afternoon. The characters were relatable and fun to read about.
I always find the rock star ones particularly heartbreaking. This one, though, didn’t quite hit heartbreak territory for me. It was sad and there was angst, but the despair didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
I enjoyed this story. It was easy to read and I knocked it over in an afternoon. The characters were relatable and fun to read about.
I always find the rock star ones particularly heartbreaking. This one, though, didn’t quite hit heartbreak territory for me. It was sad and there was angst, but the despair didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
January 5, 2025
My rating: 3 stars
What I loved: I liked how Opal(h) finally went to college and got a degree. I also liked how Alex(H) turned down going back to the band. It showed that he truly wanted to make things work with Opal. I also liked how Opal had a guy friend during the five years and she just didn’t wait around.
What I didn’t like: I wish Opal and Axel had a conversation about their sexual history during the five years they were separated. We knew what Opal had been up to but her not knowing anything about what he had been up to and who he had been with just to jump in bed with him made no sense (hello stds). I also hated how Opal’s mother put everything on her. She truly was a selfish person. Also, I would have liked to know more about Alex during the five years.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: Cheating (emotional), death of a sibling. This book jumps from present to the past. In the past the H moves to the h’s neighborhood. H and h become friends. As they get older their feelings become more but the H dates another girl thinking the h doesn’t see him like that. During that time the H distances himself from the h. When his girlfriend says some mean things he tells her that he is done with her. H goes back to the h, they finally talk things out and start dating. H is a musician and he starts getting noticed on social media. When he is asked to play at a bar, he is notice by a band and they ask him to come on tour with them. H doesn’t want to leave the h behind but h tells him to go. h plans to go to college but that is put on hold when her grandmother needs help. H and h do the long distance relationship but H starts drinking and doing drugs. He starts hanging out with a female band member and does a song with her. The female band member likes the H and hits on him. H drunk and high, talks to the h over the phone, forgets it the h’s birthday. When the female band member gets on the phone being all over the H, the h tells him that the relationship isn’t working. H wakes up the next day not realizing that the h broke up with him tries calling the h. h blocked the H’s number when she sees a picture of the H with the female band member. The band member tells the H that the h broke up with him and that she wants to be with him. The book jumps to five years later and the H is back in town to help his father. h runs into him and they talk. One thing leads to another and they have sex. h gets pregnant and they decide to co parent. H wants more and goes about better himself to get the h back. H tells the h he never cheated and after he realized he lost her he left the tour. He said he was drinking and doing drugs and felt like she was better without him. h is scared at first to give him a second chance but in the end she does. H sells his music and gets a place for them to live together. HEA with them married, h has a bachelors degree in business and they had a son.
Final thoughts: This was my first book by this author. It was a solid 3 stars and I will definitely check out more books from her.
What I loved: I liked how Opal(h) finally went to college and got a degree. I also liked how Alex(H) turned down going back to the band. It showed that he truly wanted to make things work with Opal. I also liked how Opal had a guy friend during the five years and she just didn’t wait around.
What I didn’t like: I wish Opal and Axel had a conversation about their sexual history during the five years they were separated. We knew what Opal had been up to but her not knowing anything about what he had been up to and who he had been with just to jump in bed with him made no sense (hello stds). I also hated how Opal’s mother put everything on her. She truly was a selfish person. Also, I would have liked to know more about Alex during the five years.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: Cheating (emotional), death of a sibling. This book jumps from present to the past. In the past the H moves to the h’s neighborhood. H and h become friends. As they get older their feelings become more but the H dates another girl thinking the h doesn’t see him like that. During that time the H distances himself from the h. When his girlfriend says some mean things he tells her that he is done with her. H goes back to the h, they finally talk things out and start dating. H is a musician and he starts getting noticed on social media. When he is asked to play at a bar, he is notice by a band and they ask him to come on tour with them. H doesn’t want to leave the h behind but h tells him to go. h plans to go to college but that is put on hold when her grandmother needs help. H and h do the long distance relationship but H starts drinking and doing drugs. He starts hanging out with a female band member and does a song with her. The female band member likes the H and hits on him. H drunk and high, talks to the h over the phone, forgets it the h’s birthday. When the female band member gets on the phone being all over the H, the h tells him that the relationship isn’t working. H wakes up the next day not realizing that the h broke up with him tries calling the h. h blocked the H’s number when she sees a picture of the H with the female band member. The band member tells the H that the h broke up with him and that she wants to be with him. The book jumps to five years later and the H is back in town to help his father. h runs into him and they talk. One thing leads to another and they have sex. h gets pregnant and they decide to co parent. H wants more and goes about better himself to get the h back. H tells the h he never cheated and after he realized he lost her he left the tour. He said he was drinking and doing drugs and felt like she was better without him. h is scared at first to give him a second chance but in the end she does. H sells his music and gets a place for them to live together. HEA with them married, h has a bachelors degree in business and they had a son.
Final thoughts: This was my first book by this author. It was a solid 3 stars and I will definitely check out more books from her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2024
QUEER LOVE?
In this book the guy is supposed to be “queer” ; however he never did ANY queer guy stuff. And to be honest I don’t know what a “queer” man does. But, he has an attraction to males and females and we only read about him with females. The MMC is a musician, he leaves home to chase his dreams and immediately becomes an addict. And I do mean an addict in about three short months. What wasn’t explored was why he was drinking and drugging so much? Did he ever indulge his attraction to men? While chasing his dream was he a whore that slept with men and women ? We don’t know cause the author was afraid to go there.
The author failed to convince, explain or provide understanding to the reader about what a queer guy is and does when choosing a woman. The MFC is strong. At first I thought this was going to be a character with self-esteem issues who, but she wasn’t. She loved her self enough to break up with a guy that was spiraling. There isn’t much to say about her other than she had a selfish mother. The MFC mother asked her to skip college to take care of her grandmother, while she chased her dreams. In conclusion if you are going to write a love story about a polarizing topic , then write about it! Oh and by the way, these characters aren’t even 25.
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In this book the guy is supposed to be “queer” ; however he never did ANY queer guy stuff. And to be honest I don’t know what a “queer” man does. But, he has an attraction to males and females and we only read about him with females. The MMC is a musician, he leaves home to chase his dreams and immediately becomes an addict. And I do mean an addict in about three short months. What wasn’t explored was why he was drinking and drugging so much? Did he ever indulge his attraction to men? While chasing his dream was he a whore that slept with men and women ? We don’t know cause the author was afraid to go there.
The author failed to convince, explain or provide understanding to the reader about what a queer guy is and does when choosing a woman. The MFC is strong. At first I thought this was going to be a character with self-esteem issues who, but she wasn’t. She loved her self enough to break up with a guy that was spiraling. There isn’t much to say about her other than she had a selfish mother. The MFC mother asked her to skip college to take care of her grandmother, while she chased her dreams. In conclusion if you are going to write a love story about a polarizing topic , then write about it! Oh and by the way, these characters aren’t even 25.
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November 22, 2024
"Somehow we managed to walk through the darkness and come out on the other end together."
The most heart wrenching love story. Imagine finding your one one true love at 12 years old. That's what happened with Opal & Alex. Not realised at the time but just best friends, they were joined at the hip.
When Alex goes and follows his dreams as a musician, finds alcohol and drugs and sadly leaves Opal behind in their home town and their relationships stop.
Years later their paths cross again not realising that their love is still as strong as it always has been. With some major life events happening to them bringing them back together, you are really hoping they get there happy ending.
This was a great story, full of love, heart break and an ultimate happy ending.
Thank you Kristyn Landau and Happily Booked for the opportunity for this ARC.
The most heart wrenching love story. Imagine finding your one one true love at 12 years old. That's what happened with Opal & Alex. Not realised at the time but just best friends, they were joined at the hip.
When Alex goes and follows his dreams as a musician, finds alcohol and drugs and sadly leaves Opal behind in their home town and their relationships stop.
Years later their paths cross again not realising that their love is still as strong as it always has been. With some major life events happening to them bringing them back together, you are really hoping they get there happy ending.
This was a great story, full of love, heart break and an ultimate happy ending.
Thank you Kristyn Landau and Happily Booked for the opportunity for this ARC.
November 15, 2024
Alex and Opal’s story had me hooked, and as their story unfolds, you get to know their insecurities, fears, and dreams. We start with two friends who meet in school and face the angst of navigating the good and bad of the age. As they fall in love, opportunity separates them.
As time brings them both to Willow Grove, so does their second chance.
This is an emotional story; the journey is worth it.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
As time brings them both to Willow Grove, so does their second chance.
This is an emotional story; the journey is worth it.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
November 19, 2024
This is a second chance which is one of my favorites. Alex and Opals story is a best friends to lovers, first love, childhood sweethearts and it so good. It's rough but it's so realistic. The chemistry was great and it was well written.
November 22, 2024
It was an okay read. I didn’t really love or hate it.
Opal and Alex meet at 12 years old when Alex moves to their little dusty Texas town from Colorado.
They immediately become best friends. Both have secret underlying crushes on each other, both don’t fit in with the popular crowd and both have a lot of family issues. Opal lives with her absent mother and grandmother and never knew her dad. Alex’s older brother died, his mom abandoned him and his dad is a mean alcoholic.
This book as 53 chapters and by chapter 23 we’re still in the past. I really don’t care for books like this. We read about them when they’re 12, 14, 16, 18 and 19.
From 14 – 16 Alex gets preoccupied with the typical mean girl at school and ditches his best friend despite saying Opal is one of the only reasons he lives and hasn’t run away. Mmmk. The mean girl dumps him when he admits he’s bisexual and says some incredibly homophobic stuff.
Alex starts dating Opal after this from 16 – 19. They talk about a future but Alex is too free spirited- he really wants to just play music and travel the country. Opal has been accepted to a local college and wants to make something of herself. He keeps just making plans of touring with Opal following him around when Opal keeps trying to tell him she doesn’t want to leave her family and wants to attend college.
One day, Opal’s shitty mother says that she’s moving to Dallas and Opal needs to take a gap year instead of going to college and take care of her ailing grandmother. (WTF?) And Alex has been asked to tour with another band. She’s stuck and he’s leaving. They try long distance but of course that never works.
Alex starts to get resentful that Opal is the only one that seems to miss him in Texas and he gets mad that she’s not with him on tour or driving to see his shows (remember she’s working, taking care of her grandmother and has no car) so basically, he’s selfish. He starts drinking even though he’s dad is an alcoholic and getting WAY to close to another bandmate Alexa. Basically, after only two short months Alex barely calls Opal, drinks and pops pills, forgets her birthday and OW posts a very suggestive photo of her and Alex together. They also sing a duet together and Opal sees it on Youtube. (He maintains then and after that he never cheated and the photo was taken after he was passed out. It was the OW with her head on his shoulder while he looks asleep.)
Fast forward 5 years. Opal is in a seriously lackluster relationship (FOR A YEAR) with a guy she barely tolerates. He uses her for sex and she uses him for comfort so she’s not lonely. She is 24 with a boring, sad, unfulfilling life. She works, takes care of grandma and hangs out with Ian or Maise (her only friend).
Alex comes back to town to help his sick and ailing father. Sings at a bar and runs into Opal. They yell at each other, meet to “talk” where she accuses him of cheating on her (he did not), giving up on them (they both did) and never loving her (he says he’s loved her since he was 12). They sleep together. Yup. She cheats on her boyfriend. Alex is a recovering alcoholic and drug user and yet he still wakes up every morning and gets a beer first thing. Not cool author!
Opal tells her boyfriend she cheated. He says he knew he was always her second choice so it’s okay. Alex sees them and assumes the worst. A month goes by. Alex drinks. Opal’s pregnant. Alex wants to be together, Opal doesn’t and thinks he’ll abandon her and the baby.
The entire rest of the book 65% + is Alex trying really hard (getting a regular job, someplace to live, checking on Opal, feeding her, asking her out, blah blah blah) and Opal being super wishy washy. It’s kind of annoying. She loves him. She loves him not.
She’s also insanely jealous literally anytime another woman talks to Alex. Like once scene, she’s told him she wants to coparent and nothing else. He offers to take her to Target to baby shop. She refuses to ride in his car. She walks in and sees a brunette talking with Alex and stomps out of the store crying. He chases her and tells her that woman was asking for an autograph for her boyfriend and Opal still gives him the silent treatment and acts all uptight and jealous.
Another time, Alex has taken her to the beach to surprise her. Rented a house for the weekend. Old bandmates call to talk to him and ask him to come jam with them (Ones been in his life for years now and helped him when he was depressed and drinking), Alex says no. The OW takes the phone to say hi and Alex asks her to let his friend take the phone back. Opal is so jealous and hates OW so much she throws a massive tantrum, starts packing and cries until he takes her home early. She internally keeps thinking this is why they can’t be together, he’s not trustworthy.
Alex has done NOTHING wrong. He hasn’t talked to OW in years, never messed around with her, never cheated. Even back 5 years ago, they sang a song together (they’re performers!!) and she posted ONE photo of them that WAS NOT SEXUAL. Get a grip Opal!
For me, Opal was seriously hard character to write. At first, she’s hardworking and dedicated and wants to go to college. By 24, she’s a sour old woman with a poor me attitude. She doesn’t really TRY at anything. She works a barely minimum wage job, gave up on even online classes, lives in her childhood bedroom, was lackluster and not engaging with her boyfriend and only has one friend.
She insults everybody and everything and is SUPER sour about not going to college but….. she……chose….. not…..to. When later Alex tries to offer to move in together and help support her she’s like I’m going to have a kid Alex! I can’t go to college. Uhh LOTS of people go to college later in life much less your early 20s. Then when it comes to him talking about how good her poetry is she says she is embarrassed because she’s not a typical poetry girl. They’re usually cute, clean and organized. What the freaking frack author? First way to pigeonhole an entire group of people but clean? Poetry girls are clean?!? How fucking weird. She also uses pregnancy as an excuse for everything. Like she stops going to work then gets fired then expects everyone to be angry for her.
Like I get this is a second change romance but her breaking up with Alex, remember she dumped him, has just ruined this whole girls life and it seems like she became a bitter shrew. She doesn’t seem responsible enough to be a mother to it kind of turned me off her character and her HEA.
Basically, Opal gets preeclampsia. On bed rest. Alex bends over backwards to make her happy. They move in together. Have baby (off page). Get married and are happy 5 years later. She works and Alex is a rich songwriter.
Opal and Alex meet at 12 years old when Alex moves to their little dusty Texas town from Colorado.
They immediately become best friends. Both have secret underlying crushes on each other, both don’t fit in with the popular crowd and both have a lot of family issues. Opal lives with her absent mother and grandmother and never knew her dad. Alex’s older brother died, his mom abandoned him and his dad is a mean alcoholic.
This book as 53 chapters and by chapter 23 we’re still in the past. I really don’t care for books like this. We read about them when they’re 12, 14, 16, 18 and 19.
From 14 – 16 Alex gets preoccupied with the typical mean girl at school and ditches his best friend despite saying Opal is one of the only reasons he lives and hasn’t run away. Mmmk. The mean girl dumps him when he admits he’s bisexual and says some incredibly homophobic stuff.
Alex starts dating Opal after this from 16 – 19. They talk about a future but Alex is too free spirited- he really wants to just play music and travel the country. Opal has been accepted to a local college and wants to make something of herself. He keeps just making plans of touring with Opal following him around when Opal keeps trying to tell him she doesn’t want to leave her family and wants to attend college.
One day, Opal’s shitty mother says that she’s moving to Dallas and Opal needs to take a gap year instead of going to college and take care of her ailing grandmother. (WTF?) And Alex has been asked to tour with another band. She’s stuck and he’s leaving. They try long distance but of course that never works.
Alex starts to get resentful that Opal is the only one that seems to miss him in Texas and he gets mad that she’s not with him on tour or driving to see his shows (remember she’s working, taking care of her grandmother and has no car) so basically, he’s selfish. He starts drinking even though he’s dad is an alcoholic and getting WAY to close to another bandmate Alexa. Basically, after only two short months Alex barely calls Opal, drinks and pops pills, forgets her birthday and OW posts a very suggestive photo of her and Alex together. They also sing a duet together and Opal sees it on Youtube. (He maintains then and after that he never cheated and the photo was taken after he was passed out. It was the OW with her head on his shoulder while he looks asleep.)
Fast forward 5 years. Opal is in a seriously lackluster relationship (FOR A YEAR) with a guy she barely tolerates. He uses her for sex and she uses him for comfort so she’s not lonely. She is 24 with a boring, sad, unfulfilling life. She works, takes care of grandma and hangs out with Ian or Maise (her only friend).
Alex comes back to town to help his sick and ailing father. Sings at a bar and runs into Opal. They yell at each other, meet to “talk” where she accuses him of cheating on her (he did not), giving up on them (they both did) and never loving her (he says he’s loved her since he was 12). They sleep together. Yup. She cheats on her boyfriend. Alex is a recovering alcoholic and drug user and yet he still wakes up every morning and gets a beer first thing. Not cool author!
Opal tells her boyfriend she cheated. He says he knew he was always her second choice so it’s okay. Alex sees them and assumes the worst. A month goes by. Alex drinks. Opal’s pregnant. Alex wants to be together, Opal doesn’t and thinks he’ll abandon her and the baby.
The entire rest of the book 65% + is Alex trying really hard (getting a regular job, someplace to live, checking on Opal, feeding her, asking her out, blah blah blah) and Opal being super wishy washy. It’s kind of annoying. She loves him. She loves him not.
She’s also insanely jealous literally anytime another woman talks to Alex. Like once scene, she’s told him she wants to coparent and nothing else. He offers to take her to Target to baby shop. She refuses to ride in his car. She walks in and sees a brunette talking with Alex and stomps out of the store crying. He chases her and tells her that woman was asking for an autograph for her boyfriend and Opal still gives him the silent treatment and acts all uptight and jealous.
Another time, Alex has taken her to the beach to surprise her. Rented a house for the weekend. Old bandmates call to talk to him and ask him to come jam with them (Ones been in his life for years now and helped him when he was depressed and drinking), Alex says no. The OW takes the phone to say hi and Alex asks her to let his friend take the phone back. Opal is so jealous and hates OW so much she throws a massive tantrum, starts packing and cries until he takes her home early. She internally keeps thinking this is why they can’t be together, he’s not trustworthy.
Alex has done NOTHING wrong. He hasn’t talked to OW in years, never messed around with her, never cheated. Even back 5 years ago, they sang a song together (they’re performers!!) and she posted ONE photo of them that WAS NOT SEXUAL. Get a grip Opal!
For me, Opal was seriously hard character to write. At first, she’s hardworking and dedicated and wants to go to college. By 24, she’s a sour old woman with a poor me attitude. She doesn’t really TRY at anything. She works a barely minimum wage job, gave up on even online classes, lives in her childhood bedroom, was lackluster and not engaging with her boyfriend and only has one friend.
She insults everybody and everything and is SUPER sour about not going to college but….. she……chose….. not…..to. When later Alex tries to offer to move in together and help support her she’s like I’m going to have a kid Alex! I can’t go to college. Uhh LOTS of people go to college later in life much less your early 20s. Then when it comes to him talking about how good her poetry is she says she is embarrassed because she’s not a typical poetry girl. They’re usually cute, clean and organized. What the freaking frack author? First way to pigeonhole an entire group of people but clean? Poetry girls are clean?!? How fucking weird. She also uses pregnancy as an excuse for everything. Like she stops going to work then gets fired then expects everyone to be angry for her.
Like I get this is a second change romance but her breaking up with Alex, remember she dumped him, has just ruined this whole girls life and it seems like she became a bitter shrew. She doesn’t seem responsible enough to be a mother to it kind of turned me off her character and her HEA.
Basically, Opal gets preeclampsia. On bed rest. Alex bends over backwards to make her happy. They move in together. Have baby (off page). Get married and are happy 5 years later. She works and Alex is a rich songwriter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2024
Story about YAs so while the premise could have a load of angst and betrayal, it was angst lite.
Grovel = H claims the h is his bff and the only girl he ever loved, but when he goes on the road for his music, he slowly pulls away from the h and basically ghosts the h. H grovels/explains he was going down a bad path and did not see himself as good enough for nor worthy of the h.
I usually read such dark and heavy books that this was a bit of a palette cleanser.
Grovel = H claims the h is his bff and the only girl he ever loved, but when he goes on the road for his music, he slowly pulls away from the h and basically ghosts the h. H grovels/explains he was going down a bad path and did not see himself as good enough for nor worthy of the h.
I usually read such dark and heavy books that this was a bit of a palette cleanser.
November 10, 2025
Past and present, i kinda cared more about the past. The present was boring
November 17, 2024
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!! There are some sensitive topics in this novel that you need to know about. They are: perceived cheating (no real cheating happens, it's only perceived) accidental pregnancy, bullying (not between MCs) homophobic/queerphobic language (not between MCs), complications during pregnancy (preeclampsia), mention of death of a sibling.
I did love the themes that you'll find like: childhood friends to lovers, indie rockstar, second chances, surprise pregnancy, small town love story, talks about mental health, she writes music and a poet, he's a musician, taking risks, the spice, fight for their love story, small town.
Hot dang. This book hooked me from the first page and never let me go. This is such a great book. It's well written, and there's just so much to take in. I know that I missed a lot, and when I go and re-read it, there is a lot that I am going to see for the first time. I love that our MCs were Childhood best-friends and and then they were lovers. I loved it all. This book just gave me all the feels.
This book helped to remind me how special and precious your first time love really is and how it touches your life in a way that no other love can. Even though this story was long, and the years that Opal and Alex spend apart is long, to read their story is only going to take you a short time and it is a few hours that you will enjoy and find that you enjoy greatly.
Alex and Opal's love story is one for the ages. They are both down to earth, and it shows how sometimes you never really get over your first love and you never forget that first love. Our Final Encore shows that sometimes that person you fall in love with for the first time is, in fact, your soul mate and the person you are meant to be with.
The tension and the heartache. You feel it, and it is real. I felt like I was going through each and every moment with Opal. Alex was real and refreshing. He wasn't your typical indie rock-star that's full of himself and thinks he's better than everyone else.
I highly recommend this book. It is worth reading and is greatly enjoyable. And it's going to bring back memories of your first love and all the good memories of that love and how special it really is and how sweet life can be. If you haven't read this book yet, then go and read it. it's worth it, and the spice is sweet and spicy.
I did love the themes that you'll find like: childhood friends to lovers, indie rockstar, second chances, surprise pregnancy, small town love story, talks about mental health, she writes music and a poet, he's a musician, taking risks, the spice, fight for their love story, small town.
Hot dang. This book hooked me from the first page and never let me go. This is such a great book. It's well written, and there's just so much to take in. I know that I missed a lot, and when I go and re-read it, there is a lot that I am going to see for the first time. I love that our MCs were Childhood best-friends and and then they were lovers. I loved it all. This book just gave me all the feels.
This book helped to remind me how special and precious your first time love really is and how it touches your life in a way that no other love can. Even though this story was long, and the years that Opal and Alex spend apart is long, to read their story is only going to take you a short time and it is a few hours that you will enjoy and find that you enjoy greatly.
Alex and Opal's love story is one for the ages. They are both down to earth, and it shows how sometimes you never really get over your first love and you never forget that first love. Our Final Encore shows that sometimes that person you fall in love with for the first time is, in fact, your soul mate and the person you are meant to be with.
The tension and the heartache. You feel it, and it is real. I felt like I was going through each and every moment with Opal. Alex was real and refreshing. He wasn't your typical indie rock-star that's full of himself and thinks he's better than everyone else.
I highly recommend this book. It is worth reading and is greatly enjoyable. And it's going to bring back memories of your first love and all the good memories of that love and how special it really is and how sweet life can be. If you haven't read this book yet, then go and read it. it's worth it, and the spice is sweet and spicy.
November 15, 2024
ARC REVIEW 💌
This was a short and cute fun pregnancy trope read, I enjoyed seeing the chapters when they were younger and bestfriends then them becoming a couple and seeing how everything went down
The tension and healing plus heartache was done so well but you can see the chemistry and connection between them even though they haven’t seen each other in years, the ANGST had me crying just wanted them happy
Alex is a musician, he literally writes all his songs about her even though they were broken up, he lost himself along the way but finally picks himself up
Opal is a poet, I am a proud defender of my girl she went through a lot including with the pregnancy
CHECK TW ❤️🩹
Quotes 💌
“You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met.”
“If I have to beg for a second chance for the rest of my life, that’s what I’ll do. Just please don’t shut me out.”
“I couldn’t forget you. No matter how much I tried, you were still the first thing I thought of in the morning and the last thing I thought of at night. I always hoped you were living a happy life, even without me in it.”
“Part of me will awogs belong to opal , and I can only hope that she feels the same way somewhere deep down.”
“The only reason this is home to me now is because of Opal. She is my home.”
“It’s always gonna be us, Bluebird. No matter what, I promise.”
“Don’t say I never loved you, Opal. I fucked up in so many ways, but I never lied about that, I’ve always loved you.”
“All I ever wanted was you. That’s never changed. Maybe you don’t see it, Alex, but to me, you’re perfect the way you are.”
Tropes 💌
Childhood Friends to Lovers
Small Town
Second Chance
No Accidental Pregnancy
Indie Rockstar
Bisexual and Mental Health Rep
💌 Thank you @kristynlandau.author for this ARC 💌
This was a short and cute fun pregnancy trope read, I enjoyed seeing the chapters when they were younger and bestfriends then them becoming a couple and seeing how everything went down
The tension and healing plus heartache was done so well but you can see the chemistry and connection between them even though they haven’t seen each other in years, the ANGST had me crying just wanted them happy
Alex is a musician, he literally writes all his songs about her even though they were broken up, he lost himself along the way but finally picks himself up
Opal is a poet, I am a proud defender of my girl she went through a lot including with the pregnancy
CHECK TW ❤️🩹
Quotes 💌
“You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met.”
“If I have to beg for a second chance for the rest of my life, that’s what I’ll do. Just please don’t shut me out.”
“I couldn’t forget you. No matter how much I tried, you were still the first thing I thought of in the morning and the last thing I thought of at night. I always hoped you were living a happy life, even without me in it.”
“Part of me will awogs belong to opal , and I can only hope that she feels the same way somewhere deep down.”
“The only reason this is home to me now is because of Opal. She is my home.”
“It’s always gonna be us, Bluebird. No matter what, I promise.”
“Don’t say I never loved you, Opal. I fucked up in so many ways, but I never lied about that, I’ve always loved you.”
“All I ever wanted was you. That’s never changed. Maybe you don’t see it, Alex, but to me, you’re perfect the way you are.”
Tropes 💌
Childhood Friends to Lovers
Small Town
Second Chance
No Accidental Pregnancy
Indie Rockstar
Bisexual and Mental Health Rep
💌 Thank you @kristynlandau.author for this ARC 💌
November 18, 2024
This is a beautiful story of the trials young love can go through when distance and different life paths come into play.
For myself there were definitely moments at the end that had me tearing up, having thought 💭 and felt similar things to the FMC.
This story has reminded me of one thing though, people will always grow and change if they want to and often how we see ourselves is not how others see us.
Our Final Encore by @kristynlandau.author is now live!
Start reading this small town, second chance romance today with Kindle Unlimited.
Add it to your Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/2s3jzhp3
Get your copy here: https://tinyurl.com/mbbd43e3
What to expect:
🎸 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🌲 Small Town
🎸 Second Chance
🌲 Accidental Pregnancy
🎸 Indie Rockstar
🌲 Bisexual and Mental Health Rep
Before he was an indie rock sensation, Alex Anderson was mine.
My best friend, my first love, the person who knew me better than I knew myself. Until he walked away and carelessly threw away what we had. Now he's back in our small town, acting like he can easily pick up the pieces of our broken relationship. I have to do whatever it takes to protect not only my own heart, but also my unborn baby's.
The first day I laid eyes on Opal Lancaster I knew she was the only girl for me.
It didn't matter that we were only twelve years old. Too many mistakes and miscommunications caused our relationship to slip through my hands, but now I'm back in Willow Grove for good, and I'm determined to prove to her that the man I am now isn't like the boy I was then. I'll do whatever it takes to show her I can take care of her and our child.
#ourfinalencore #kristynlandau #willowgroveseries #romance #smalltown #friendstolovers #outnow #kindleunlimited #happilybookedpr
For myself there were definitely moments at the end that had me tearing up, having thought 💭 and felt similar things to the FMC.
This story has reminded me of one thing though, people will always grow and change if they want to and often how we see ourselves is not how others see us.
Our Final Encore by @kristynlandau.author is now live!
Start reading this small town, second chance romance today with Kindle Unlimited.
Add it to your Goodreads: https://tinyurl.com/2s3jzhp3
Get your copy here: https://tinyurl.com/mbbd43e3
What to expect:
🎸 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🌲 Small Town
🎸 Second Chance
🌲 Accidental Pregnancy
🎸 Indie Rockstar
🌲 Bisexual and Mental Health Rep
Before he was an indie rock sensation, Alex Anderson was mine.
My best friend, my first love, the person who knew me better than I knew myself. Until he walked away and carelessly threw away what we had. Now he's back in our small town, acting like he can easily pick up the pieces of our broken relationship. I have to do whatever it takes to protect not only my own heart, but also my unborn baby's.
The first day I laid eyes on Opal Lancaster I knew she was the only girl for me.
It didn't matter that we were only twelve years old. Too many mistakes and miscommunications caused our relationship to slip through my hands, but now I'm back in Willow Grove for good, and I'm determined to prove to her that the man I am now isn't like the boy I was then. I'll do whatever it takes to show her I can take care of her and our child.
#ourfinalencore #kristynlandau #willowgroveseries #romance #smalltown #friendstolovers #outnow #kindleunlimited #happilybookedpr
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2024
This book felt like a love song between Alex and Opal. There was love and heartbreak, losing and finding each other again. I really enjoyed it.
I thought Alex and Opal were down to earth and grounded and although they loved each other from childhood, they still had obstacles and insecurities to overcome. They made mistakes, some that they could fix, others that they couldn't. I think that's what made them so relatable. Alex wasn't some over the top diva rockstar but he still had his demons with the life.
Opal was trying to figure out her life and how she fit into Alex's new one. It broke my heart to watch her struggle. There were a few times when I thought she was being stubborn or maybe that she should have stood up for herself a little bit more and told Alex how she felt but I was still drawn to her.
Did they get a HEA, yah, but it definitely wasn't easy and they had to work for it. I loved the small town, second chance aspect of this book. Accidental pregnancy is not a big trope for me, but I thought it fit well with the progression of their story.
This book was angsty and sweet and had a little spice, all of which fit into the story in just the right amounts and I really liked that.
There was a lot on Alex and Opal's childhood and teenage years which was fine, but I really would have enjoyed more of their adult life as well. I hope that in future books, we will be able to see how they are making out :)
I enjoyed Krystin's style of writing and I enjoyed the emotions that this book evoked from me. I look forward to more in this series.
A big thank you to #kristynlandau and #happilybookedpr for the ARC read. This review and my opinions are my own.
I thought Alex and Opal were down to earth and grounded and although they loved each other from childhood, they still had obstacles and insecurities to overcome. They made mistakes, some that they could fix, others that they couldn't. I think that's what made them so relatable. Alex wasn't some over the top diva rockstar but he still had his demons with the life.
Opal was trying to figure out her life and how she fit into Alex's new one. It broke my heart to watch her struggle. There were a few times when I thought she was being stubborn or maybe that she should have stood up for herself a little bit more and told Alex how she felt but I was still drawn to her.
Did they get a HEA, yah, but it definitely wasn't easy and they had to work for it. I loved the small town, second chance aspect of this book. Accidental pregnancy is not a big trope for me, but I thought it fit well with the progression of their story.
This book was angsty and sweet and had a little spice, all of which fit into the story in just the right amounts and I really liked that.
There was a lot on Alex and Opal's childhood and teenage years which was fine, but I really would have enjoyed more of their adult life as well. I hope that in future books, we will be able to see how they are making out :)
I enjoyed Krystin's style of writing and I enjoyed the emotions that this book evoked from me. I look forward to more in this series.
A big thank you to #kristynlandau and #happilybookedpr for the ARC read. This review and my opinions are my own.
November 16, 2024
1. Badly needed editing. Terrible grammar. Eg. “opal and I’s friendship”.
2. I hate it when the plot of a book makes NO sense.
a. Alex said that he’d “never want to jeopardize” his friendship with Opal and that losing Opal’s friendship would “crush” him, yet he dropped her as soon as he started dating Brooke.
b. Alex admitted to himself that Brooke annoyed him, that deep down, he knew she wasn’t a very nice person, that he knew the relationship wasn’t going to last, he had no feelings for her and on top of all that, they weren’t even sleeping together. Yet, he was still willing to drop his “best friend” as soon as he started going out with Brooke.
c. Although they were supposedly “best friends” Alex dropped Opal for months when he got a gf and Opal wasn’t hurt or upset with him for it. Even when he admitted that Brooke annoyed him and he didn’t even really like her, Opal still wasn’t upset with him for dropping her. And, when his gf broke up with him, Opal was willing to just pick up where they left off.
d. Brooke broke up with Alex because she was disgusted when he admitted to her that he was bisexual. She spread rumors about it around town and everyone was gossiping about him. And then, even though it was years before Alex left town, the whole topic was just never mentioned again.
e. Alex despised his father for becoming an alcoholic after his brother died and his mother left them. Then, he despised himself when his dependency on pills and alcohol lost him Opal. After he got back to town, when he talked about “grabbing a beer from the fridge as soon as he rolled out of bed”, I realized that he hadn’t learned anything or made any changes in his life. DNF
2. I hate it when the plot of a book makes NO sense.
a. Alex said that he’d “never want to jeopardize” his friendship with Opal and that losing Opal’s friendship would “crush” him, yet he dropped her as soon as he started dating Brooke.
b. Alex admitted to himself that Brooke annoyed him, that deep down, he knew she wasn’t a very nice person, that he knew the relationship wasn’t going to last, he had no feelings for her and on top of all that, they weren’t even sleeping together. Yet, he was still willing to drop his “best friend” as soon as he started going out with Brooke.
c. Although they were supposedly “best friends” Alex dropped Opal for months when he got a gf and Opal wasn’t hurt or upset with him for it. Even when he admitted that Brooke annoyed him and he didn’t even really like her, Opal still wasn’t upset with him for dropping her. And, when his gf broke up with him, Opal was willing to just pick up where they left off.
d. Brooke broke up with Alex because she was disgusted when he admitted to her that he was bisexual. She spread rumors about it around town and everyone was gossiping about him. And then, even though it was years before Alex left town, the whole topic was just never mentioned again.
e. Alex despised his father for becoming an alcoholic after his brother died and his mother left them. Then, he despised himself when his dependency on pills and alcohol lost him Opal. After he got back to town, when he talked about “grabbing a beer from the fridge as soon as he rolled out of bed”, I realized that he hadn’t learned anything or made any changes in his life. DNF
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2024
Spice level:
1.5/5 🌶️
CW:
There's a comprehensive list at the beginning of the book, but some that come immediately to my mind are: perceived cheating (more like miscommunication, because it's not cheating), accidental pregnancy, high risk pregnancy (happy ending), death of a sibling (off-page), medical emergency with an elderly loved one
Tropes/themes:
Second chance at love with your childhood sweetheart, accidental pregnancy, mental health rep
Review:
(I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion)
I don't often say this, but: I wish this book were longer! I really adored these characters and I wish I could have gotten more of their story and more of their perspectives through the years. This book has the bones of a great story and I just wish I had been able to really sink into the angst and evolution of the characters a bit more.
That being said, it's still a good book! I enjoyed it, it has two of my favorite tropes (accidental pregnancy and cheating, though the cheating is perceived and doesn't actually happen) and following the characters from the age of 12 to 24 is great.
If you're looking for a quick read with angst (but not too much angst), then this is a perfect book for you!
HEA includes marriage and a kid.
1.5/5 🌶️
CW:
There's a comprehensive list at the beginning of the book, but some that come immediately to my mind are: perceived cheating (more like miscommunication, because it's not cheating), accidental pregnancy, high risk pregnancy (happy ending), death of a sibling (off-page), medical emergency with an elderly loved one
Tropes/themes:
Second chance at love with your childhood sweetheart, accidental pregnancy, mental health rep
Review:
(I received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion)
I don't often say this, but: I wish this book were longer! I really adored these characters and I wish I could have gotten more of their story and more of their perspectives through the years. This book has the bones of a great story and I just wish I had been able to really sink into the angst and evolution of the characters a bit more.
That being said, it's still a good book! I enjoyed it, it has two of my favorite tropes (accidental pregnancy and cheating, though the cheating is perceived and doesn't actually happen) and following the characters from the age of 12 to 24 is great.
If you're looking for a quick read with angst (but not too much angst), then this is a perfect book for you!
HEA includes marriage and a kid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2024
I was expecting a little more from this story.
Opal and Alex meet at 12 years old and become fast friends which is teetering on more but then Alex starts dating the school queen bee and becomes popular leaving Opal behind. He dates the queen bee for a couple of years distancing himself from Opal but when he comes out as bi the queen bee drops him and he immediately goes running back to Opal and they almost instantly start a relationship. In 2 years of dating he never took it further than kissing with the queen bee for the safety squad. I thought she would play a bigger part in the story but she doesn't.
He and Opal then date for a couple of years when he goes off to become famous and gets involved in drink and drugs. There is perceived cheating and they split up and have no contact. They then meet again when they are 24 and after one encounter she is pregnant (I do like me a surprise baby) and after that not much else goes on.
Other plot lines which were not developed enough for me was his brother who we are told passed away and other than a few cursory references it's never discussed or dealt with. Felt thrown in for the sake of it.
It was all a little to surface level for me and under developed!
Opal and Alex meet at 12 years old and become fast friends which is teetering on more but then Alex starts dating the school queen bee and becomes popular leaving Opal behind. He dates the queen bee for a couple of years distancing himself from Opal but when he comes out as bi the queen bee drops him and he immediately goes running back to Opal and they almost instantly start a relationship. In 2 years of dating he never took it further than kissing with the queen bee for the safety squad. I thought she would play a bigger part in the story but she doesn't.
He and Opal then date for a couple of years when he goes off to become famous and gets involved in drink and drugs. There is perceived cheating and they split up and have no contact. They then meet again when they are 24 and after one encounter she is pregnant (I do like me a surprise baby) and after that not much else goes on.
Other plot lines which were not developed enough for me was his brother who we are told passed away and other than a few cursory references it's never discussed or dealt with. Felt thrown in for the sake of it.
It was all a little to surface level for me and under developed!
May 10, 2025
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“I want all of your firsts, Opal. And all of your lasts.”
Overthinking planner girly meets indie rockstar sensation.
Opal grew up as an only child, constantly made fun of for how she looked—called ugly, weird, a loser, and lesbian. At fourteen, she started falling for her best friend, Alex. Now she’s twenty-four, raised by and still living with her grandma, and working as a bookkeeper at a cute little bakery called Heaven Scent. Five years after breaking her heart, Alex is back in Willow Grove—for his dad and to find himself again.
OUR FINAL ENCORE gave me major nostalgic vibes with the childhood moments. It tackles everything from teenage insecurities, peer pressure, and broken friendships to stepping out of your comfort zone, fear of rejection, and chasing dreams. From puppy love to second chances and an accidental pregnancy, the story hits hard emotionally. It made me weep, giggle, and smile—and honestly, my heart went out to the rebound relationship(s) along the way. It’s giving me The Idea of You vibes, minus the age gap. This refreshing HEA stayed with me long after the last page. If it’s meant to be, it will be!
A big thanks to Happily Booked PR and Kristyn Landau for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
—
#lateARCreview
“I want all of your firsts, Opal. And all of your lasts.”
Overthinking planner girly meets indie rockstar sensation.
Opal grew up as an only child, constantly made fun of for how she looked—called ugly, weird, a loser, and lesbian. At fourteen, she started falling for her best friend, Alex. Now she’s twenty-four, raised by and still living with her grandma, and working as a bookkeeper at a cute little bakery called Heaven Scent. Five years after breaking her heart, Alex is back in Willow Grove—for his dad and to find himself again.
OUR FINAL ENCORE gave me major nostalgic vibes with the childhood moments. It tackles everything from teenage insecurities, peer pressure, and broken friendships to stepping out of your comfort zone, fear of rejection, and chasing dreams. From puppy love to second chances and an accidental pregnancy, the story hits hard emotionally. It made me weep, giggle, and smile—and honestly, my heart went out to the rebound relationship(s) along the way. It’s giving me The Idea of You vibes, minus the age gap. This refreshing HEA stayed with me long after the last page. If it’s meant to be, it will be!
A big thanks to Happily Booked PR and Kristyn Landau for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
—
#lateARCreview
November 14, 2024
Our Final Encore is book one in the Willow Grove Series.
I was really worried when I first started this book as there is a warning about "cheating". However, I love Kristyn Landau's books so I knew I had to read this one. If this is a trigger for you, as it is for me, please know that as is said by the author, in my opinion there is only perceived cheating. It is a misunderstanding of events. You may feel differently but this was my take on it.
I loved this story. There was a lot of back and forth between the characters with their backstory. You can tell they like each other, but they are best friends and don't want anything to impact this so they fight their feelings for each other. Also, Alex lacked his ability to communicate effectively with his partner which causes a lot of problems between these two. I get Opal's fears about having a second chance with Alex. They have a bit of a bad history and I get her thoughts and emotions about this.
I really liked this story. I felt it was a great second chance romance about best friends becoming more.
I was really worried when I first started this book as there is a warning about "cheating". However, I love Kristyn Landau's books so I knew I had to read this one. If this is a trigger for you, as it is for me, please know that as is said by the author, in my opinion there is only perceived cheating. It is a misunderstanding of events. You may feel differently but this was my take on it.
I loved this story. There was a lot of back and forth between the characters with their backstory. You can tell they like each other, but they are best friends and don't want anything to impact this so they fight their feelings for each other. Also, Alex lacked his ability to communicate effectively with his partner which causes a lot of problems between these two. I get Opal's fears about having a second chance with Alex. They have a bit of a bad history and I get her thoughts and emotions about this.
I really liked this story. I felt it was a great second chance romance about best friends becoming more.
November 15, 2024
“For every girl that’s ever felt like an ugly duckling. You’re actually a f!!king swan.”
I don’t usually gravitate toward second-chance romances with miscommunication tropes, but the intriguing blurb and other themes drew me in—and I’m glad they did.
📝 RATED (4/5): ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ SPICE (2/5): 🔥 🔥
📖 Title: Our Final Encore
✍🏻 Author: Kristyn Landau (@kristynlandau.author)
⚠️Trigger Warnings Alert ⚠️
📚 Book Length: 306 pages
🗓️ Publish Date: 11/15/2024
This book is beautifully written and packed with emotion, offering a heartfelt reminder of how special life’s journey is and how sweet love can be. The spice strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy. While the back-and-forth between characters and their pasts can be a little confusing, it adds depth to the story.
Overall, this book gave me all the feels!
—————————————————————
* I received an advanced copy of Our Final Encore and am sharing my honest review voluntarily. A big thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for providing it!
I don’t usually gravitate toward second-chance romances with miscommunication tropes, but the intriguing blurb and other themes drew me in—and I’m glad they did.
📝 RATED (4/5): ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ SPICE (2/5): 🔥 🔥
📖 Title: Our Final Encore
✍🏻 Author: Kristyn Landau (@kristynlandau.author)
⚠️Trigger Warnings Alert ⚠️
📚 Book Length: 306 pages
🗓️ Publish Date: 11/15/2024
This book is beautifully written and packed with emotion, offering a heartfelt reminder of how special life’s journey is and how sweet love can be. The spice strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy. While the back-and-forth between characters and their pasts can be a little confusing, it adds depth to the story.
Overall, this book gave me all the feels!
—————————————————————
* I received an advanced copy of Our Final Encore and am sharing my honest review voluntarily. A big thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for providing it!
November 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this story. Childhood friends to lovers say no more. This trope has creeped up to becoming one of my favorite tropes to read
Opal and Alex become neighbors and friends at age 12. They both bond over music, and Opal encourages Alex's music playing and him with Opals writing.
I love it when both main characters support one another and become each others biggest fans. Alex was such a confidence boost to Opal, while her anxiety and insecurities tried to get the best of her. Alex was right there shutting those bad thoughts down
I also swooned each time he would call her bluebird
After their breakup, they don't speak for five years until Alex returns to their childhood town. He wants her back, but she is even more protective of her heart now
I couldn't put this book down. It was a faster read for me, I loved the angst and tension, and of course, them finding their way to a hea.
Check the TW!
This is the first book I've read by Kristyn, and I've already downloaded and read one other by her I enjoyed
🎸Second chance
🎸Childhood friends
🎸Indie rockstar
🎸Accidental pregnancy
🎸Bisexual & Mental health rep
4.5★
Opal and Alex become neighbors and friends at age 12. They both bond over music, and Opal encourages Alex's music playing and him with Opals writing.
I love it when both main characters support one another and become each others biggest fans. Alex was such a confidence boost to Opal, while her anxiety and insecurities tried to get the best of her. Alex was right there shutting those bad thoughts down
I also swooned each time he would call her bluebird
After their breakup, they don't speak for five years until Alex returns to their childhood town. He wants her back, but she is even more protective of her heart now
I couldn't put this book down. It was a faster read for me, I loved the angst and tension, and of course, them finding their way to a hea.
Check the TW!
This is the first book I've read by Kristyn, and I've already downloaded and read one other by her I enjoyed
🎸Second chance
🎸Childhood friends
🎸Indie rockstar
🎸Accidental pregnancy
🎸Bisexual & Mental health rep
4.5★
November 18, 2024
A miss.
Firstly, it needed an editor.
Secondly, both the story and the characters were surface level. Everything was a non event. I don't know, if you write about your MC being bisexual but only mentioning twice, isn't this queerbaiting as fuck?
He lost his brother, and his mother left. Heroine never knew her dad and has not a single conversation about him with her mother. The author couldn't be less interested in her own characters. What a flop. Why even bother trying if you don't care. Just write them being happy and that's it.
Also, I'm 100% I have already read this exact story. Two BFFs who have feelings for each other. First half of the book is flashbacks through their childhood and school. They become a couple but the MC leaves the small town to become a star. Huge miscommunication that leads to a stupid breakup. Time jump. Heroine is stuck in a boring job. Hero comes back. They get back together. The end.
Firstly, it needed an editor.
Secondly, both the story and the characters were surface level. Everything was a non event. I don't know, if you write about your MC being bisexual but only mentioning twice, isn't this queerbaiting as fuck?
He lost his brother, and his mother left. Heroine never knew her dad and has not a single conversation about him with her mother. The author couldn't be less interested in her own characters. What a flop. Why even bother trying if you don't care. Just write them being happy and that's it.
Also, I'm 100% I have already read this exact story. Two BFFs who have feelings for each other. First half of the book is flashbacks through their childhood and school. They become a couple but the MC leaves the small town to become a star. Huge miscommunication that leads to a stupid breakup. Time jump. Heroine is stuck in a boring job. Hero comes back. They get back together. The end.
November 18, 2024
☀️☀️☀️☀️ a short cute small-town second chance romance!
What a great quick read! You’ll love this if you love second chance romances, small towns, and accidental pregnancy tropes- this is actually my first second chance romance book and I was pleasantly surprised. I loved being able to witness their childhood crushes become first loves- but I did have plenty of anxiety leading to their first breakup 😅
Overall this book had a great pace while still showing the characters as fully developed- I did love how this book didn’t have a super crazy climax. It made it feel more real in a way? My only complaint: pretty sure she mentions him running his hand down his face or pinching the bridge of his nose at least a dozen times so it did feel a little redundant. Thank you so much for allowing me to have an ARC copy!!
What a great quick read! You’ll love this if you love second chance romances, small towns, and accidental pregnancy tropes- this is actually my first second chance romance book and I was pleasantly surprised. I loved being able to witness their childhood crushes become first loves- but I did have plenty of anxiety leading to their first breakup 😅
Overall this book had a great pace while still showing the characters as fully developed- I did love how this book didn’t have a super crazy climax. It made it feel more real in a way? My only complaint: pretty sure she mentions him running his hand down his face or pinching the bridge of his nose at least a dozen times so it did feel a little redundant. Thank you so much for allowing me to have an ARC copy!!
November 22, 2024
"It don't matter how long ago it was. Love like that doesn't ever fade..."
The book is about 2 childhood best friends who have tried both to avoid their blossoming feelings.
Alex is a boy who loves music - writing and singing. Opal is the average girl to whom Alex is head over heels of.
I have a love hate relationship with this book. I was definitely hooked on the first 5 pages and was enjoying it until the MCs are together.
I thought their separation would make them both grow but it didn’t do as much for their female MC.
The story and author have a lot of potential however, I felt like some scenes were out of place or against the plot.
Story was a bit dragging towards the last 6 chapters when I think it's a push and pull already between the characters but nevertheless, I enjoyed reading it.
The book is about 2 childhood best friends who have tried both to avoid their blossoming feelings.
Alex is a boy who loves music - writing and singing. Opal is the average girl to whom Alex is head over heels of.
I have a love hate relationship with this book. I was definitely hooked on the first 5 pages and was enjoying it until the MCs are together.
I thought their separation would make them both grow but it didn’t do as much for their female MC.
The story and author have a lot of potential however, I felt like some scenes were out of place or against the plot.
Story was a bit dragging towards the last 6 chapters when I think it's a push and pull already between the characters but nevertheless, I enjoyed reading it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
A hallmark movie in book form. Childhood friends to lovers isn’t typically a trope I reach for, but after reading this, I’m definitely going to seek out more.
After a new kid, Alex, moves into town, Opal’s world is changed. The two become best friends. Hanging out and sharing secrets. Time passes by with them attached at the hip, but highschool and hormones shake up their concrete foundation, leaving a swirl of emotions behind.
Alex is a musician. He feels his best on stage and singing in front of crowds. Opal prefers the background, distant from the spotlight. Their life choices tugging them apart.
The way these two operate is endearing and sweet. I enjoyed watching their love story unfold from kids to adults.
After a new kid, Alex, moves into town, Opal’s world is changed. The two become best friends. Hanging out and sharing secrets. Time passes by with them attached at the hip, but highschool and hormones shake up their concrete foundation, leaving a swirl of emotions behind.
Alex is a musician. He feels his best on stage and singing in front of crowds. Opal prefers the background, distant from the spotlight. Their life choices tugging them apart.
The way these two operate is endearing and sweet. I enjoyed watching their love story unfold from kids to adults.
December 1, 2024
I appreciated how the story started back when Alex and Opal first met when they were 12; it helped me understand the long history and deep feelings they have for each other. The little surprise that propels their relationship was not really a shocker. I was waiting for something that thrust these two together after Opal fought her feelings for Alex so hard.
These two together are just too adorable - the love runs deep no matter what happened in their past.
This was an adorable and heartwarming read.
⭐️Second chance
⭐️Childhood friends to lovers
⭐️Indie rockstar
⭐️Small town
Thank you to Kristyn Landau and Happily Booked PR for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
These two together are just too adorable - the love runs deep no matter what happened in their past.
This was an adorable and heartwarming read.
⭐️Second chance
⭐️Childhood friends to lovers
⭐️Indie rockstar
⭐️Small town
Thank you to Kristyn Landau and Happily Booked PR for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
November 11, 2024
Arc Review:This book grips you from the first page with its thrilling blend of childhood sweat heart and second chances! It tells the captivating story of Alex and Opal, where they meet as kids at 12 years old in a town called Willow Grove where their bond grows from friendship to deep love. But then heartbreak strikes, leading to a painful breakup. Just when you think their story is over, fate intervenes, bringing them back together at the perfect moment. It’s a whirlwind of emotions and heart-wrenching, and ultimately uplifting. You won’t want to put it down! This was my first second chance Romance and it was so so beautiful 😍.
November 11, 2024
Wow absolutely amazing. This story had me hooked right from the first chapter. I couldn’t put it down and finished the whole book in a day.
The whole story between Opel and Alex had me experiencing a whole load of different emotions. I feel like I personally know them. The characters are well written and the storyline is just stunning. I don’t want to give away any spoilers but this one had some spice and touches around the subject of cheating. A second chance friends to lovers story. I didn’t want it to end. Definitely recommend. Totally amazing.
Thank you to Happily Booked PR for adding me to the team.
The whole story between Opel and Alex had me experiencing a whole load of different emotions. I feel like I personally know them. The characters are well written and the storyline is just stunning. I don’t want to give away any spoilers but this one had some spice and touches around the subject of cheating. A second chance friends to lovers story. I didn’t want it to end. Definitely recommend. Totally amazing.
Thank you to Happily Booked PR for adding me to the team.
November 12, 2024
This book was everything that I needed in my life. 2 childhood friends grow close as they navigate the difficulties of middle school and high school. They fall in love and they make it through high school together with a love that you could only hope for. Circumstances make things harder for them as their lives take two separate paths. Much as we wish love can conquer all, sometimes it can't and sometimes it takes time. I love second-chance childhood soul mates. This journey of hardships, happiness, love, romance, heartbreak, and everything in between is definitely what I needed. Treat yourself to this magnificent and emotional ride. You won't regret it.
November 13, 2024
I knew I had a short turn around to read this and get my review done, however I didn't expect to devour this book in one evening!!
The mental health rep was so important in this book and it often has me tearing up and crying at the descriptions of going through these emotions. The writing describes, so perfectly, what it is like to go through heart break and come out the other side.
I loved how in-depth the early years of Opal and Alex were, rather than just a flashback as it played a big part of the later story.
I was pleased to also read about Alex's struggle with his own family trauma and ways of dealing with stress, as the male mental health rep is so important also.
The mental health rep was so important in this book and it often has me tearing up and crying at the descriptions of going through these emotions. The writing describes, so perfectly, what it is like to go through heart break and come out the other side.
I loved how in-depth the early years of Opal and Alex were, rather than just a flashback as it played a big part of the later story.
I was pleased to also read about Alex's struggle with his own family trauma and ways of dealing with stress, as the male mental health rep is so important also.
November 15, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶 🌶
🎸 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🌲 Small Town
🎸 Second Chance
🌲 Accidental Pregnancy
🎸 Indie Rockstar
🌲 Bisexual and Mental Health Rep
Please read the triggers because your mental health matters. This book was great although with all the back and forth with each character and their past it might get a bit confusing, but I loved being able to better understand their story. Opal and Alex met when they were 12 and they became the best of friends and then eventually more, that is until they take different paths. The pain and overall emotions in this book had me at the edge of my seat. Great book really enjoyed.
🌶 🌶
🎸 Childhood Friends to Lovers
🌲 Small Town
🎸 Second Chance
🌲 Accidental Pregnancy
🎸 Indie Rockstar
🌲 Bisexual and Mental Health Rep
Please read the triggers because your mental health matters. This book was great although with all the back and forth with each character and their past it might get a bit confusing, but I loved being able to better understand their story. Opal and Alex met when they were 12 and they became the best of friends and then eventually more, that is until they take different paths. The pain and overall emotions in this book had me at the edge of my seat. Great book really enjoyed.
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