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Bluegrass Empires #3
The Tryst
As the middle son, Trey Blackburn dedicates his days to the family business, working to ensure that they remain at the top of the saddelbred industry. His time away from the farm is another story. Not one to get tied up in a long-term relationship, he’s the love ‘em and leave ‘em sort of guy. But Trey’s hesitation to commit might be deeper than not wanting to put in the time and effort. His reluctance may have more to do with the blond beauty who just blew back into town and the things they left in the past that have been neither forgiven nor forgotten.
Holland Rhodes may not have been born into the Blackburn name, but she was once considered part of the family. Having a less-than-ideal home life, Holland spent as much time as she could with the Blackburns, the quintessential dynasty full of love and southern hospitality. Dubbed an honorary member, Holland thought their connection would last a lifetime, but one shocking revelation changed everything.
Having left Shelbyville for a fresh start, Holland has limited her time back in Kentucky for the past decade, avoiding both of her families—the one into which she was born and the one into which she was welcomed. But the death of her father and the uncertain future of the family business has brought Holland back to face her past, one Blackburn at a time.
With old feelings reignited and ready to move their relationship forward, everything crashes to a halt when tragedy strikes. Their painful history in danger of repeating itself, Trey and Holland may find that even true love can’t overcome the darkest days.
The A Blackburn Novel is an enemies to lovers novel within the Bluegrass Empires series. All books in the series can be enjoyed as standalones.
Holland Rhodes may not have been born into the Blackburn name, but she was once considered part of the family. Having a less-than-ideal home life, Holland spent as much time as she could with the Blackburns, the quintessential dynasty full of love and southern hospitality. Dubbed an honorary member, Holland thought their connection would last a lifetime, but one shocking revelation changed everything.
Having left Shelbyville for a fresh start, Holland has limited her time back in Kentucky for the past decade, avoiding both of her families—the one into which she was born and the one into which she was welcomed. But the death of her father and the uncertain future of the family business has brought Holland back to face her past, one Blackburn at a time.
With old feelings reignited and ready to move their relationship forward, everything crashes to a halt when tragedy strikes. Their painful history in danger of repeating itself, Trey and Holland may find that even true love can’t overcome the darkest days.
The A Blackburn Novel is an enemies to lovers novel within the Bluegrass Empires series. All books in the series can be enjoyed as standalones.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2024
156 people are currently reading
433 people want to read
About the author
Sawyer Bennett
165 books14.4k followersNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
October 28, 2024
Okay, I am so tired of ranting about this particular pet peeve of mine. I'll do my best to be brief, but I will continue to call out authors who do this. I don't care if I get shit.
This is my hill to die on.
If I am going to trust an author to tell me emotional stories, I need to know they will give me a heads up first. If you wanna keep it low-key, cause you think it's a spoiler, then put a link to your website. Then it's up to the reader. For readers who don't care to know, it's easy to ignore, for those who need it, it's the difference between a great reading experience and a shitty one.
It's as simple as that.
I don't care if you're writing Contemporary Romance. It's even MORE important then. I expect triggering and heavy content in a Dark Romance. So I'm more forgiving of those because as a reader I am willingly picking up that sub-genre. Also, those authors get REAMED if they miss a TW, so they are usually very diligent.
There was no expectation that I would be blindsided in this one. I've loved the previous two books and though they had some suspenseful elements, I was all good. I read romance as escapism. Sometimes I'm in the mood for different kinds of it. I just wanted a heads up.
I'm not a weakling because I want that. Fuck that noise. I'm a responsible adult reader and when I pick up a book I check what I'm getting into. If it has certain things, I may put it down. Or at least my mindset is prepared.
I was listening to the audio, and there very easily can be a CW that your narrators read at the start so if you don't have an eBook, you are still made aware. I just started an SJ Tilly audio book and her narrator reads all the CWs right there at the start. If you don't want to hear, you can skip.
So yeah, I don't care if I sound whiny. I'm a book reviewer and I warn those who follow me about what to expect. I bought this one with my own money and when I checked reviews, I didn't see anything too troubling. Besides hearing it was "emotional." So I'm also just a wee bit irritated that not a single ARC reviewer would put that out there. Maybe they were asked not to, but they could have slipped a vague warning into their reviews.
Well, what hurt me so much then? Here's where I'll get into spoilers. So if you don't want to know what they were, peace out.
This is obviously just my reading experience. Sawyer Bennett does not own me or anyone else anymore books in this series. But for me, it ends on a very sour note.
Narrated by Sean Masters and Kit Swann. They were wonderful, as always and they elevated this story for me.
3 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
Scroll down for CWs
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CW: Death of a sibling (on page), death of a parent (off page, before start), grief, drunk driving accident, alcoholic parent (past), previous child abuse
This is my hill to die on.
If I am going to trust an author to tell me emotional stories, I need to know they will give me a heads up first. If you wanna keep it low-key, cause you think it's a spoiler, then put a link to your website. Then it's up to the reader. For readers who don't care to know, it's easy to ignore, for those who need it, it's the difference between a great reading experience and a shitty one.
It's as simple as that.
I don't care if you're writing Contemporary Romance. It's even MORE important then. I expect triggering and heavy content in a Dark Romance. So I'm more forgiving of those because as a reader I am willingly picking up that sub-genre. Also, those authors get REAMED if they miss a TW, so they are usually very diligent.
There was no expectation that I would be blindsided in this one. I've loved the previous two books and though they had some suspenseful elements, I was all good. I read romance as escapism. Sometimes I'm in the mood for different kinds of it. I just wanted a heads up.
I'm not a weakling because I want that. Fuck that noise. I'm a responsible adult reader and when I pick up a book I check what I'm getting into. If it has certain things, I may put it down. Or at least my mindset is prepared.
I was listening to the audio, and there very easily can be a CW that your narrators read at the start so if you don't have an eBook, you are still made aware. I just started an SJ Tilly audio book and her narrator reads all the CWs right there at the start. If you don't want to hear, you can skip.
So yeah, I don't care if I sound whiny. I'm a book reviewer and I warn those who follow me about what to expect. I bought this one with my own money and when I checked reviews, I didn't see anything too troubling. Besides hearing it was "emotional." So I'm also just a wee bit irritated that not a single ARC reviewer would put that out there. Maybe they were asked not to, but they could have slipped a vague warning into their reviews.
Well, what hurt me so much then? Here's where I'll get into spoilers. So if you don't want to know what they were, peace out.
This is obviously just my reading experience. Sawyer Bennett does not own me or anyone else anymore books in this series. But for me, it ends on a very sour note.
Narrated by Sean Masters and Kit Swann. They were wonderful, as always and they elevated this story for me.
3 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
Scroll down for CWs
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CW: Death of a sibling (on page), death of a parent (off page, before start), grief, drunk driving accident, alcoholic parent (past), previous child abuse
October 30, 2024
My least favorite from this series... Sorry, but Trey was not my kind of guy, and his excuses for his breakup were lame.
November 1, 2024
Read if you like: Second chance romance, enemies-to-lovers, Southern family drama, slow-burn relationships, heart-tugging plot twists.
📚 When Holland Rhodes returns to Kentucky, she’s prepared to face her family, but she didn’t expect to confront her unresolved past with Trey Blackburn, her first love and biggest heartbreak. Trey, the middle Blackburn brother, has always kept his distance from commitment, but with Holland back in town, he's forced to face the choices and sacrifices he made for his family.
👨👧 Trey and Holland’s story is charged with unspoken words, heartbreak, and hidden regrets. Both characters are complex, with Trey standing out as a "suffer in silence" kind of hero, who kept his past pain buried. Holland is strong and determined, navigating old wounds while handling her family’s affairs. Their connection is palpable, deepened by years of history and unresolved feelings that build the tension beautifully.
💞 This romance is all about second chances. Trey and Holland’s chemistry is a slow, intense burn that feels both nostalgic and new. You’ll find yourself rooting for these two as they inch closer, all while fearing the pain of their potential fallout.
👧 The Blackburn family is just as captivating as the romance. They offer warmth, loyalty, and Southern charm, balancing out the novel’s intensity with light-hearted moments.
✍️ Sawyer Bennett’s writing shines here, especially with her ability to keep readers engaged in a story that’s both heartbreaking and hopeful. There’s a curveball that’s not typical for happily-ever-after romance, but it adds to the depth of the narrative.
🌟 The Tryst combines love, loss, and family in a deeply moving tale that stays with you. Perfect for fans of emotional romances with a twist, this book will make you feel everything from joy to heartbreak.
📲 **QOTD: Would you revisit a place you left behind for a fresh start?**👇
#BookReview #TheTryst #SawyerBennett #RomanceReaders #SecondChanceRomance #EnemiesToLovers #FamilyDrama #MustReadRomance #HeartfeltBooks #SouthernRomance #LoveAndLoss
📚 When Holland Rhodes returns to Kentucky, she’s prepared to face her family, but she didn’t expect to confront her unresolved past with Trey Blackburn, her first love and biggest heartbreak. Trey, the middle Blackburn brother, has always kept his distance from commitment, but with Holland back in town, he's forced to face the choices and sacrifices he made for his family.
👨👧 Trey and Holland’s story is charged with unspoken words, heartbreak, and hidden regrets. Both characters are complex, with Trey standing out as a "suffer in silence" kind of hero, who kept his past pain buried. Holland is strong and determined, navigating old wounds while handling her family’s affairs. Their connection is palpable, deepened by years of history and unresolved feelings that build the tension beautifully.
💞 This romance is all about second chances. Trey and Holland’s chemistry is a slow, intense burn that feels both nostalgic and new. You’ll find yourself rooting for these two as they inch closer, all while fearing the pain of their potential fallout.
👧 The Blackburn family is just as captivating as the romance. They offer warmth, loyalty, and Southern charm, balancing out the novel’s intensity with light-hearted moments.
✍️ Sawyer Bennett’s writing shines here, especially with her ability to keep readers engaged in a story that’s both heartbreaking and hopeful. There’s a curveball that’s not typical for happily-ever-after romance, but it adds to the depth of the narrative.
🌟 The Tryst combines love, loss, and family in a deeply moving tale that stays with you. Perfect for fans of emotional romances with a twist, this book will make you feel everything from joy to heartbreak.
📲 **QOTD: Would you revisit a place you left behind for a fresh start?**👇
#BookReview #TheTryst #SawyerBennett #RomanceReaders #SecondChanceRomance #EnemiesToLovers #FamilyDrama #MustReadRomance #HeartfeltBooks #SouthernRomance #LoveAndLoss
November 4, 2024
Audio-This is so good. All the feels. I was surprised that there was a death (sibling), I so wanted this person to have a book. It was hard to take the guilt, the grief and the possibility of losing your second chance at happiness. I cried the last two chapters. My heart ached for them. This is a terrific series and Sawyer Bennett doesn’t disappoint.
October 31, 2024
I rarely ever leave reviews for books that I don’t 5 star love.
To each their own.
But this has a needless turn that hurt. A lot. And the comeback from it didn’t feel authentic or realistic.
I love this author and her books. But was disappointed in this twist and think they deserved better.
To each their own.
But this has a needless turn that hurt. A lot. And the comeback from it didn’t feel authentic or realistic.
I love this author and her books. But was disappointed in this twist and think they deserved better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2024
Holland and Trey pulled at my heartstrings! This second chance story has a lot going on!
Holland and Trey secretly dated when they were younger. When they are finally ready to tell their families about their relationship, Trey throws a curveball and breaks Hollands heart.
Holland left her small town, but comes back years later when her father dies.
Trey wants a second chance, but Holland can’t trust him. They have some fun, but don’t tell anyone because Holland figures she’ll be leaving soon anyway.
It was enjoyable when Holland and Trey were together. They have a past and while they are together again they are remembering what drew them to each other in the first place. They are a nice couple.
Towards the end of the story, Sawyer throws something at you that is very tough. It tares Holland and Trey apart once again. It breaks your heart for those two and their family.
Best book in the series so far!
Holland and Trey secretly dated when they were younger. When they are finally ready to tell their families about their relationship, Trey throws a curveball and breaks Hollands heart.
Holland left her small town, but comes back years later when her father dies.
Trey wants a second chance, but Holland can’t trust him. They have some fun, but don’t tell anyone because Holland figures she’ll be leaving soon anyway.
It was enjoyable when Holland and Trey were together. They have a past and while they are together again they are remembering what drew them to each other in the first place. They are a nice couple.
Towards the end of the story, Sawyer throws something at you that is very tough. It tares Holland and Trey apart once again. It breaks your heart for those two and their family.
Best book in the series so far!
November 4, 2024
Holland is only back home for her father’s funeral and to tie up some lose ends.
Trey is willing to fight and do everything necessary to prove to her that they could still be amazing together, just like old times. But can she forgive him for the past?
I was really looking forward to Trey’s book. Another relaxing read just like the previous books in this series, maybe some drama and a bit of suspense. But no, Miss Bennett made sure to make me cry. The heartbreak in this book is huge, I couldn’t control my tears for many chapters, feeling the pain the entire Blackburn family was going through. But I’m happy that, even it was a hard time, they will include it in everything in the future.
Trey is willing to fight and do everything necessary to prove to her that they could still be amazing together, just like old times. But can she forgive him for the past?
I was really looking forward to Trey’s book. Another relaxing read just like the previous books in this series, maybe some drama and a bit of suspense. But no, Miss Bennett made sure to make me cry. The heartbreak in this book is huge, I couldn’t control my tears for many chapters, feeling the pain the entire Blackburn family was going through. But I’m happy that, even it was a hard time, they will include it in everything in the future.
November 24, 2024
By chapter 7, I’ve decided 28-year-old Holland is as pathetic as her doormat mother. Trey dumps her 11-years ago for a BS reason and instead of acting cool and confident she falls into bed with him faster than a junkie desperate for a score. I mean seriously have some pride. NOPE! She gives into exactly what he wants with almost no fight. I like Sawyer Bennett but sometimes her FMCs, with all their outward bravado, are nothing more than Southern belles waiting for Rhett to come sweep them off their feet. As if standing on their own and making the MC work for their love would be far too much work. Instead the FMCs fold like a cheap suit to the patriarchy idea that if he wants me I’ll give in now then I’ll walk away but then they completely forget about the walking away part. Self-respect dies quickly with these troupes.
Chapter 8, so instead of trying to be Holland’s friend during difficult times Trey is only thinking about himself. I need her to love me, forgive me, to stay for me, nothing about what Hollander might need. Yeah, great love story.
Chapter 12. I keep thinking how unbelievably weak Holland is. Why fight with your do-nothing mother. Sell the business, give her the money and move-on. Give her as much care and concern that she gave to you. That’s not being hard that’s being real.
Chapter 15, so Wade is a dumbass. You’re upset because your brother is in love with the woman you have a crush on. Really? What, are you 5?
Chapter 20, so he dies after acting like a 2-year-old screaming mine, mine, mine.
It’s almost like she didn’t have a story for Wade so she killed him off. There’s no explanation of Trey’s dream. Is there going to be a wrap-up of the Mardragon’s court case? What was Wade’s deal, why was he so angry? His reaction just seemed so irrational. It was a teenagers reaction instead of a nearly 30-year old man’s reaction. This was my least favorite book in the series. The FMC and MC were unlikable until the end. I did cry when Trey was remembering Wade but it didn’t make-up for the rest of the story.
Chapter 8, so instead of trying to be Holland’s friend during difficult times Trey is only thinking about himself. I need her to love me, forgive me, to stay for me, nothing about what Hollander might need. Yeah, great love story.
Chapter 12. I keep thinking how unbelievably weak Holland is. Why fight with your do-nothing mother. Sell the business, give her the money and move-on. Give her as much care and concern that she gave to you. That’s not being hard that’s being real.
Chapter 15, so Wade is a dumbass. You’re upset because your brother is in love with the woman you have a crush on. Really? What, are you 5?
Chapter 20, so he dies after acting like a 2-year-old screaming mine, mine, mine.
It’s almost like she didn’t have a story for Wade so she killed him off. There’s no explanation of Trey’s dream. Is there going to be a wrap-up of the Mardragon’s court case? What was Wade’s deal, why was he so angry? His reaction just seemed so irrational. It was a teenagers reaction instead of a nearly 30-year old man’s reaction. This was my least favorite book in the series. The FMC and MC were unlikable until the end. I did cry when Trey was remembering Wade but it didn’t make-up for the rest of the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2024
Holland Rhodes used to be as close to the Blackburns as family, but left quickly and cut all ties shortly after heading to college. Returning to Kentucky was never her plan, but with the death of her father she finds herself needing to make decisions about the future of his print shop.
Trey Blackburn hid what he and Holland had all those years ago because he wanted to have the time with her to himself. But hiding it hurt more than just their future, and this time he might be able to have what he messed up the first time.
The chemistry still lingers, though so does the hurt. Neither wants to resist, but when they give into the feelings between them, they find themselves walking a similar path to their past: sneaking around, hiding from their families. But this time they are determined to do things differently, to bring things to the open sooner. Especially since Holland plans to go back to her old life as soon as she has her father’s estate in order.
This second chance romance turned out to be filled with more emotion and heartache than I was expecting. For most of the story I was happily skating along waiting for their secret to come out and see how everyone would handle it. But what happened had me shocked alongside the characters. My heart broke for where their journey took them and even though it resolved, I couldn’t have guessed the direction things took for them.
This was the final book in the Bluegrass Empires series and I can’t help wish there was more. I’m not ready for this family to be finished, but also understand that that is just what happens sometimes and this story was a good wrap up for the series.
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Trey Blackburn hid what he and Holland had all those years ago because he wanted to have the time with her to himself. But hiding it hurt more than just their future, and this time he might be able to have what he messed up the first time.
The chemistry still lingers, though so does the hurt. Neither wants to resist, but when they give into the feelings between them, they find themselves walking a similar path to their past: sneaking around, hiding from their families. But this time they are determined to do things differently, to bring things to the open sooner. Especially since Holland plans to go back to her old life as soon as she has her father’s estate in order.
This second chance romance turned out to be filled with more emotion and heartache than I was expecting. For most of the story I was happily skating along waiting for their secret to come out and see how everyone would handle it. But what happened had me shocked alongside the characters. My heart broke for where their journey took them and even though it resolved, I couldn’t have guessed the direction things took for them.
This was the final book in the Bluegrass Empires series and I can’t help wish there was more. I’m not ready for this family to be finished, but also understand that that is just what happens sometimes and this story was a good wrap up for the series.
October 29, 2024
This family sure does have it's relationship drama. And I know I probably shouldn't say this, but Wade acted like a baby at the end. I get that he was all butt hurt to learn what he did, when, but his actions after were like he was 5 years old, getting mad and taking his ball home because things didn't go his way. And sure he paid a price for his actions, boy did he ever, but he also hurt everyone else around him too for his stupid actions.
I felt for Holland, having already given up her "family" once, then to come home and have to face them and Trey. It was a lot for her. Then she lets her self really want what she's wanted for years and it looks like things are going to finally go her way, only for the carpet to get ripped out beneath her again and once again, it seems like she's loosing her "family".
Trey with his head stuck up his ass, both in the past and the present. Had to told Wade the first time around, actually that won't work, Holland and I are a thing and why they were keeping it quiet, things probably would have been find. But in the present, with the rebuke of the past and what Wade walked in on, I get why he was mad. Just didn't get the rage staying there for so many days.
In the end everyone was happy, but it was close and Gabe had to help Trey pull his head out of his ass. The scene at the pond was perfect for everyone and a good way to end the book.
I felt for Holland, having already given up her "family" once, then to come home and have to face them and Trey. It was a lot for her. Then she lets her self really want what she's wanted for years and it looks like things are going to finally go her way, only for the carpet to get ripped out beneath her again and once again, it seems like she's loosing her "family".
Trey with his head stuck up his ass, both in the past and the present. Had to told Wade the first time around, actually that won't work, Holland and I are a thing and why they were keeping it quiet, things probably would have been find. But in the present, with the rebuke of the past and what Wade walked in on, I get why he was mad. Just didn't get the rage staying there for so many days.
In the end everyone was happy, but it was close and Gabe had to help Trey pull his head out of his ass. The scene at the pond was perfect for everyone and a good way to end the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2024
Well, that was way more emotional than I was expecting!! I was not prepared for that storyline, and that twist! Other than being emotional and throwing me for a loop, I enjoyed the storyline. I enjoy learning more about the Blackburns and reading about their family dinners. They're an interesting and entertaining bunch. Trey and Holland are both hard-working individuals who don't leave much time for things other than work. It's clear they have a connection and lots of chemistry. I liked seeing not only their current relationship develop but also getting the flashbacks from their first go round. They've had a lot of ups and downs in their relationship, but I think that makes them a stronger couple in the end. My favorite part of the whole book was the epilogue. That was really cute to read, and very fitting for these characters. *I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
October 29, 2024
Trey and Holland have a very emotional and fulfilling journey. They have been lovers turned enemies to lovers again. I really enjoyed them as individuals and even more as a couple. I did feel like their journey to love again was a little quick, but they are on their second chance at love. They have such a natural pull towards each other and feel like they fit so well together. They have been thrown a lot of hard and emotional things, and it really forces them to have to find support with each other. I really loved how their challenges they face show them how much happy they can have with each other. This was a great read!
*I chose to review an early copy*
*I chose to review an early copy*
October 24, 2024
Love Trey’s story! Him and Holland have a lot to deal with.these two have Ben through a lot. Reading to see what would come from their past and could they make the future a go was well worth the reading. Absolutely love their story.
November 8, 2024
why needs someone die to give the other HEA? it’s not fair, if two truly belongs to each other, both will wake up and do something to reunion, not made the decision based on other.
the first one Ethan and Marcie is good, for the rest of two? not that goods
the first one Ethan and Marcie is good, for the rest of two? not that goods
February 8, 2025
It may have been the female narrator that made this book seem more schmaltzy and melodramatic than it really is, but I don’t think so. Which is a shame because second romance is probably my favorite trope and I was really looking forward to this one.
October 29, 2024
Omg! It’s been awhile that a book made me tear up!!!!
December 10, 2024
3.0 stars. So not what I was expecting. Kind of a downer, throw in a jaw-dropping shocking twist, and wrap it up with a much needed, happier ending. There you have it. My least favorite of the 3.
July 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️.5!!
i fear this is my least favorite in the series. i’m sorry, but i just couldn’t buy trey & holland’s love story. it moved way too quickly, and despite all the flashbacks, there had been no mention of holland in any of the previous books, so i also couldn’t buy how precious she was to the family.
i really liked holland! i feel so badly for her & all she went through. but trey aggravated me. he wasn’t good enough for holland, he never showed up for her the way she deserved, and while i understand him putting wade before him/his wants, i wish he could’ve been more selfish — if only to prove his love to holland. and then the tragedy happened, and i understand trey feeling grief and guilt over such a tragic accident, but the way he blamed himself & pushed holland away didn’t win him any favors in my book.
i feel like the main characters in this book had the least chemistry of any book i’ve ever read. the pacing was off, and i hate how quickly this series is moving. i feel so bad for sylvie + the rest of the family for dealing with so much loss and tragedy in the span of months.
i hope the next book will redeem the rest of the series bc this was a disappointing installment to what has been a fun series overall so far!
i fear this is my least favorite in the series. i’m sorry, but i just couldn’t buy trey & holland’s love story. it moved way too quickly, and despite all the flashbacks, there had been no mention of holland in any of the previous books, so i also couldn’t buy how precious she was to the family.
i really liked holland! i feel so badly for her & all she went through. but trey aggravated me. he wasn’t good enough for holland, he never showed up for her the way she deserved, and while i understand him putting wade before him/his wants, i wish he could’ve been more selfish — if only to prove his love to holland. and then the tragedy happened, and i understand trey feeling grief and guilt over such a tragic accident, but the way he blamed himself & pushed holland away didn’t win him any favors in my book.
i feel like the main characters in this book had the least chemistry of any book i’ve ever read. the pacing was off, and i hate how quickly this series is moving. i feel so bad for sylvie + the rest of the family for dealing with so much loss and tragedy in the span of months.
i hope the next book will redeem the rest of the series bc this was a disappointing installment to what has been a fun series overall so far!
November 14, 2024
3.5 stars
I had the misfortune of seeing a spoiler before beginning this book, so I went through a good portion of the story waiting for that shoe to drop. I’m not a person who generally needs content warnings, yet I am a person who gives them because I understand the need for them for a good portion of the population. I don’t always get it right when listing my content warnings and I’m very aware some warnings double as spoilers. That would be the case here. Since I’m not super tech savvy and do not know how to blur out my spoilers anywhere other than on Goodreads, you can head over to my review there if you don’t mind the spoiler and feel you need further content warning. I’ll also give you a heads-up that many reviews have this information without warning that it’s a spoiler!
In many ways, the story of Trey and Holland is a lot like the story of Kate and Gabe in the previous book, The Forbidden. Not in the way the family would view the relationship, everyone loves Holland, but in how much work the hero has to do to gain back the trust of the heroine. Trey broke Holland’s heart. He thought he was doing the right thing for his family; after all, family comes first. He was young and didn’t think through what real love was and what he owed and didn’t owe his family. He regretted the breakup with Holland from the moment it happened. Now he has another chance.
Poor Holland not only lost Trey in the breakup, she also lost her only true family. Growing up in an emotionally and possibly physically abusive home, the Blackburn family was always her refuge. Most of them looked at her as another sibling…until they all started growing up. Trey and Holland developed a special connection and had a whirlwind summer of firsts until he broke her heart and she broke all ties with the family and went as far away as she could get.
Trey was stupid, but he learned from his mistakes. He makes more toward the end of this book, but Holland understands where those mistakes are rooted and so do I. The situation is not ideal, but people cannot be forced to experience things the way we want them to because it would make life easier. How do we learn and grow if that is the case? It was frustrating, but the “aha” moment Trey had and his scurry to make things right had me forgiving him as quickly as Holland did. I know not everyone will feel the same, but it worked for me.
Looking at what is coming up on this author’s docket and how this story ended, I think this may well be the last in this series. I love this author and enjoyed these books, but they didn’t hit the same way many of her other books do for me. I’m ready to see what she has in store for us with her new Formula Racing series.
Spoiler & Content Warning:
I had the misfortune of seeing a spoiler before beginning this book, so I went through a good portion of the story waiting for that shoe to drop. I’m not a person who generally needs content warnings, yet I am a person who gives them because I understand the need for them for a good portion of the population. I don’t always get it right when listing my content warnings and I’m very aware some warnings double as spoilers. That would be the case here. Since I’m not super tech savvy and do not know how to blur out my spoilers anywhere other than on Goodreads, you can head over to my review there if you don’t mind the spoiler and feel you need further content warning. I’ll also give you a heads-up that many reviews have this information without warning that it’s a spoiler!
In many ways, the story of Trey and Holland is a lot like the story of Kate and Gabe in the previous book, The Forbidden. Not in the way the family would view the relationship, everyone loves Holland, but in how much work the hero has to do to gain back the trust of the heroine. Trey broke Holland’s heart. He thought he was doing the right thing for his family; after all, family comes first. He was young and didn’t think through what real love was and what he owed and didn’t owe his family. He regretted the breakup with Holland from the moment it happened. Now he has another chance.
Poor Holland not only lost Trey in the breakup, she also lost her only true family. Growing up in an emotionally and possibly physically abusive home, the Blackburn family was always her refuge. Most of them looked at her as another sibling…until they all started growing up. Trey and Holland developed a special connection and had a whirlwind summer of firsts until he broke her heart and she broke all ties with the family and went as far away as she could get.
Trey was stupid, but he learned from his mistakes. He makes more toward the end of this book, but Holland understands where those mistakes are rooted and so do I. The situation is not ideal, but people cannot be forced to experience things the way we want them to because it would make life easier. How do we learn and grow if that is the case? It was frustrating, but the “aha” moment Trey had and his scurry to make things right had me forgiving him as quickly as Holland did. I know not everyone will feel the same, but it worked for me.
Looking at what is coming up on this author’s docket and how this story ended, I think this may well be the last in this series. I love this author and enjoyed these books, but they didn’t hit the same way many of her other books do for me. I’m ready to see what she has in store for us with her new Formula Racing series.
Spoiler & Content Warning:
October 30, 2024
4.5stars-THE TRYST is the third instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult BLUEGRASS EMPIRES: The Blackburns erotic, romance series. This is thirty-three year old rancher Trey Blackburn, and business consultant Holland Rhodes’ story line. THE TRYST can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Trey and Holland) using present day and memories from the past, THE TRYST follows the rekindling relationship between our story line couple. Eleven years earlier Trey and Holland proclaimed their love for one another but kept their relationship a secrets from family and friends. Life, and everything it had to offer, pushed Holland out of Trey’s life, and in the ensuing years Holland moved to Zurich to start a new life. Fast forward to present day, the death of her father brings Holland back to Shelbyville, Kentucky where she will face her past in the guise of Trey Blackburn. Trey has never stopped loving our story line heroine but the heart break of the past continues to push at Holland and memories she cannot forget . Hoping for a new start, Trey starts a slow seduction of the woman he loves only to find himself facing an uncertain future when agonizing guilt and grief all but shut down our story line hero.
The world building continues to focus on the Blackburn family: their lives, their loves, their history and the feud. Holland’s life at home is not what the Blackburn family knew it to be, and in this, our heroine is struggling with which path to take, going forward.
The relationship between Trey and Holland is one of second chances but someone else is vying for our heroine’s affections. Trey is determined to reclaim everything he lost when he broke Holland’s heart but reclaiming comes with more sorrow and grief than he could have ever imagined. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including all of the previous story line couples, as well as Trey’s brother Wade, and their parents Miranda and Tommy.
THE TRYST is a story of secrets and lies, perceived betrayal and guilt, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is emotional, heart breaking and raw; the characters are determined and dynamic; the romance is captivating.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Trey and Holland) using present day and memories from the past, THE TRYST follows the rekindling relationship between our story line couple. Eleven years earlier Trey and Holland proclaimed their love for one another but kept their relationship a secrets from family and friends. Life, and everything it had to offer, pushed Holland out of Trey’s life, and in the ensuing years Holland moved to Zurich to start a new life. Fast forward to present day, the death of her father brings Holland back to Shelbyville, Kentucky where she will face her past in the guise of Trey Blackburn. Trey has never stopped loving our story line heroine but the heart break of the past continues to push at Holland and memories she cannot forget . Hoping for a new start, Trey starts a slow seduction of the woman he loves only to find himself facing an uncertain future when agonizing guilt and grief all but shut down our story line hero.
The world building continues to focus on the Blackburn family: their lives, their loves, their history and the feud. Holland’s life at home is not what the Blackburn family knew it to be, and in this, our heroine is struggling with which path to take, going forward.
The relationship between Trey and Holland is one of second chances but someone else is vying for our heroine’s affections. Trey is determined to reclaim everything he lost when he broke Holland’s heart but reclaiming comes with more sorrow and grief than he could have ever imagined. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and charismatic secondary and supporting characters including all of the previous story line couples, as well as Trey’s brother Wade, and their parents Miranda and Tommy.
THE TRYST is a story of secrets and lies, perceived betrayal and guilt, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The character driven premise is emotional, heart breaking and raw; the characters are determined and dynamic; the romance is captivating.
copy supplied for review
October 31, 2024
This book is book 3 in the Bluegrass Empires series and while it could be read as a standalone, I would read the other books before this one. As the middle son, Trey Blackburn dedicates his days to the family business, working to ensure that they remain at the top of the saddelbred industry. His time away from the farm is another story. Not one to get tied up in a long-term relationship, he’s the love ‘em and leave ‘em sort of guy. But Trey’s hesitation to commit might be deeper than not wanting to put in the time and effort. His reluctance may have more to do with the blond beauty who just blew back into town and the things they left in the past that have been neither forgiven nor forgotten. Holland Rhodes may not have been born into the Blackburn name, but she was once considered part of the family. Having a less-than-ideal home life, Holland spent as much time as she could with the Blackburns, the quintessential dynasty full of love and southern hospitality. Dubbed an honorary member, Holland thought their connection would last a lifetime, but one shocking revelation changed everything. Having left Shelbyville for a fresh start, Holland has limited her time back in Kentucky for the past decade, avoiding both of her families—the one into which she was born and the one into which she was welcomed. But the death of her father and the uncertain future of the family business has brought Holland back to face her past, one Blackburn at a time. With old feelings reignited and ready to move their relationship forward, everything crashes to a halt when tragedy strikes. Their painful history in danger of repeating itself, Trey and Holland may find that even true love can’t overcome the darkest days.
Trey and Holland's second chance definitely doesn't come without it's share of drama! They have so much chemistry and history that they are dealing with. But when the going gets tough, Trey does something that I wasn't expecting. Although I probably should have, but I didn't see that twist coming. And it was HEARTBREAKING!! I don't want to say too much, because I don't want to spoil anything. But I definitely didn't see that coming. And it might be part of why I dropped this book to 4 stars instead of 5. I enjoyed how they both come to terms with things. And the fact that Trey had his family to help him.
Trey and Holland's second chance definitely doesn't come without it's share of drama! They have so much chemistry and history that they are dealing with. But when the going gets tough, Trey does something that I wasn't expecting. Although I probably should have, but I didn't see that twist coming. And it was HEARTBREAKING!! I don't want to say too much, because I don't want to spoil anything. But I definitely didn't see that coming. And it might be part of why I dropped this book to 4 stars instead of 5. I enjoyed how they both come to terms with things. And the fact that Trey had his family to help him.
November 15, 2024
3.75*
What a rollercoaster ride. Not so much the story, but my feelings about it.
Trey and Holland had a secret affair 11 years ago when he was 22 and she was 18. It ended abruptly when he made an (idiotic) decision that broke her heart. She left for college and didn't look back, eventually accepting a job offer overseas. Returning to her hometown for her father's funeral, Trey approaches her with apologies for how things ended and wanting another chance. What starts as her attempt to walk away from him and give him a taste of what he did to her a decade ago, naturally becomes something more and they rekindle their relationship. When tragedy strikes, it seems that history is repeating itself.
Without giving spoilers, my main issue is that the conflict (both past and present) was weak. The reasoning behind Trey's actions made no sense. Even as he explained why he was ending things with Holland I was like what?? In trying to do the "right" thing, he ruined everything. No one got what they wanted. How does that make sense? And apparently he learned nothing the first time because he did it again. I was so frustrated with Trey that it really tainted my feelings for the story and I kind of wanted Holland to walk away (again), meet someone else, have a fabulous career, and live her best life. Take that, Trey!
But, like I said before, it was a rollercoaster. So while I wanted to throttle Trey for his asinine decisions, I also loved being back with the Blackburn family. I loved their close knit family dynamic, their banter, they way they welcomed others into their fold. I enjoyed seeing Holland and Trey put the past behind them and move forward. I appreciated the way Trey championed Holland and encouraged her.
And then came the twist. That I never saw coming. Sawyer Bennet has broken my heart twice now (the first time was with Boone, part of the Pittsburgh Titans series) and again with this one. I shed some serious tears.
Even though I'd love to get more books in the Bluegrass Empires series, I'm guessing this book was the end. (I'm not sure who else's story there is to tell.) Because of my frustration with the weak conflict (make it make sense!), this was my least favorite of the three books, but I was still invested and enjoyed my time with the Blackburn family.
What a rollercoaster ride. Not so much the story, but my feelings about it.
Trey and Holland had a secret affair 11 years ago when he was 22 and she was 18. It ended abruptly when he made an (idiotic) decision that broke her heart. She left for college and didn't look back, eventually accepting a job offer overseas. Returning to her hometown for her father's funeral, Trey approaches her with apologies for how things ended and wanting another chance. What starts as her attempt to walk away from him and give him a taste of what he did to her a decade ago, naturally becomes something more and they rekindle their relationship. When tragedy strikes, it seems that history is repeating itself.
Without giving spoilers, my main issue is that the conflict (both past and present) was weak. The reasoning behind Trey's actions made no sense. Even as he explained why he was ending things with Holland I was like what?? In trying to do the "right" thing, he ruined everything. No one got what they wanted. How does that make sense? And apparently he learned nothing the first time because he did it again. I was so frustrated with Trey that it really tainted my feelings for the story and I kind of wanted Holland to walk away (again), meet someone else, have a fabulous career, and live her best life. Take that, Trey!
But, like I said before, it was a rollercoaster. So while I wanted to throttle Trey for his asinine decisions, I also loved being back with the Blackburn family. I loved their close knit family dynamic, their banter, they way they welcomed others into their fold. I enjoyed seeing Holland and Trey put the past behind them and move forward. I appreciated the way Trey championed Holland and encouraged her.
And then came the twist. That I never saw coming. Sawyer Bennet has broken my heart twice now (the first time was with Boone, part of the Pittsburgh Titans series) and again with this one. I shed some serious tears.
Even though I'd love to get more books in the Bluegrass Empires series, I'm guessing this book was the end. (I'm not sure who else's story there is to tell.) Because of my frustration with the weak conflict (make it make sense!), this was my least favorite of the three books, but I was still invested and enjoyed my time with the Blackburn family.
October 27, 2024
**Audiobook Review**
Oh my heart, this book just squeezed it so hard. “The Tryst” is an emotional, romantic and steamy second chance romance that I just loved so much.
It’s been ten years since Holland and Trey were in the same city yet alone in the same room together. Holland is back in town to get her father’s affairs in order after his passing and is not planning on staying. Trey loves his small town life and his love ‘em and leave ‘em lifestyle. But what their families don’t know is the two had a secret tryst when they were 18. What they thought was forever, ended abruptly at the end of the summer. Both had unresolved feelings from that summer but both agree to another secret tryst while Holland is still in town. However as they spend time together, the feelings they have grow even stronger.
This series has been such an amazing experience and I have loved each of the Blackburn siblings. I loved Trey from the beginning, his confidence was off the charts hot and he called to me so much. He’s a confident cowboy for a reason and under that is also a caring guy who loves big once he lets his heart be open. Holland was so amazing and I admired the strength that she had. Her confidence matched Trey and I loved these two together, they both just fit so well together. They had fantastic banter but they also connected on such an emotional level. Things had changed from when they were younger and it only made them stronger and more compatible. And the plot twists in this book had me gasping more than once. Sawyer wrote a story with twists and turns that I didn’t see coming and I couldn’t stop listening because I had to know what was going to happen. The ending was so romantic, sweet and left a happy smile on my face.
Sean Masters and Kit Swann narrated as Trey and Holland and they were the perfect choices to bring these two to life. Sean’s performance was heartfelt and emotional and I loved how he brought Trey’s vulnerable side to life. Kit was perfect as Holland. Holland had so many emotions and feelings to go through while finding her way back to Kentucky and Trey. She did an amazing job as Holland and I loved listening to her.
Oh my heart, this book just squeezed it so hard. “The Tryst” is an emotional, romantic and steamy second chance romance that I just loved so much.
It’s been ten years since Holland and Trey were in the same city yet alone in the same room together. Holland is back in town to get her father’s affairs in order after his passing and is not planning on staying. Trey loves his small town life and his love ‘em and leave ‘em lifestyle. But what their families don’t know is the two had a secret tryst when they were 18. What they thought was forever, ended abruptly at the end of the summer. Both had unresolved feelings from that summer but both agree to another secret tryst while Holland is still in town. However as they spend time together, the feelings they have grow even stronger.
This series has been such an amazing experience and I have loved each of the Blackburn siblings. I loved Trey from the beginning, his confidence was off the charts hot and he called to me so much. He’s a confident cowboy for a reason and under that is also a caring guy who loves big once he lets his heart be open. Holland was so amazing and I admired the strength that she had. Her confidence matched Trey and I loved these two together, they both just fit so well together. They had fantastic banter but they also connected on such an emotional level. Things had changed from when they were younger and it only made them stronger and more compatible. And the plot twists in this book had me gasping more than once. Sawyer wrote a story with twists and turns that I didn’t see coming and I couldn’t stop listening because I had to know what was going to happen. The ending was so romantic, sweet and left a happy smile on my face.
Sean Masters and Kit Swann narrated as Trey and Holland and they were the perfect choices to bring these two to life. Sean’s performance was heartfelt and emotional and I loved how he brought Trey’s vulnerable side to life. Kit was perfect as Holland. Holland had so many emotions and feelings to go through while finding her way back to Kentucky and Trey. She did an amazing job as Holland and I loved listening to her.
October 28, 2024
Hit me right in the heart
Review for ebook & audio
Returning to Shelbyville, Kentucky, was bittersweet, THE TRYST, book #3 in the Bluegrass Empires series, is an emotional journey that was heartwarming and heart shattering. Sawyer Bennet's emotional works hit me right in my heart. THE TRYST is a second chance romance which is beautifully written, captivating from beginning to end.
Trey Blackburn and Holland Rhodes have a past, secret sweethearts who were left broken hearted due to one decision. Years have passed and while Trey went to college and returned to Shelbyville to work on the family ranch, Holland went away to college and then moved to Zurich, Switzerland. Holland has returned after the death of her father, and is determined to stay away from Trey and the Blackburn family. Trey has other plans though, he wants Holland back in his life, she's the one who got away, but can he get her to open her heart and trust him again? There's plenty of tension, but there's also sizzling chemistry and the heat between them is palpable. Just as things are looking up for them tragedy stikes, causing pasy mistakes to be repeated. Will it be a case of fight or flight?
Once again Kitt Swann and Sean Masters are the narrators. It's been wonderful having them perform all three books of the series. They bring a consistency to the characters, their portrayals are sublime. They perfectly deliver the personalities and emotions of both Try and Holland. Sean is superb bringing the broody Trey to life and Kitt brings an effervescence to Holland. It was a pleasure listening to them.
THE TRYST was a story I easily devoured. I wasn't prepared for the twist Sawyer included, she shattered my heart and caused tears to flow. Once again, she has delivered the perfect blend of humour, passion, fear, angst, and love. THE TRYST is a story of love, understanding, forgiveness, trust, and family. Another fantastic read from Sawyer Bennett, highly recommended.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Review for ebook & audio
Returning to Shelbyville, Kentucky, was bittersweet, THE TRYST, book #3 in the Bluegrass Empires series, is an emotional journey that was heartwarming and heart shattering. Sawyer Bennet's emotional works hit me right in my heart. THE TRYST is a second chance romance which is beautifully written, captivating from beginning to end.
Trey Blackburn and Holland Rhodes have a past, secret sweethearts who were left broken hearted due to one decision. Years have passed and while Trey went to college and returned to Shelbyville to work on the family ranch, Holland went away to college and then moved to Zurich, Switzerland. Holland has returned after the death of her father, and is determined to stay away from Trey and the Blackburn family. Trey has other plans though, he wants Holland back in his life, she's the one who got away, but can he get her to open her heart and trust him again? There's plenty of tension, but there's also sizzling chemistry and the heat between them is palpable. Just as things are looking up for them tragedy stikes, causing pasy mistakes to be repeated. Will it be a case of fight or flight?
Once again Kitt Swann and Sean Masters are the narrators. It's been wonderful having them perform all three books of the series. They bring a consistency to the characters, their portrayals are sublime. They perfectly deliver the personalities and emotions of both Try and Holland. Sean is superb bringing the broody Trey to life and Kitt brings an effervescence to Holland. It was a pleasure listening to them.
THE TRYST was a story I easily devoured. I wasn't prepared for the twist Sawyer included, she shattered my heart and caused tears to flow. Once again, she has delivered the perfect blend of humour, passion, fear, angst, and love. THE TRYST is a story of love, understanding, forgiveness, trust, and family. Another fantastic read from Sawyer Bennett, highly recommended.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
October 29, 2024
The Tryst is the third book in the Bluegrass Empires series.
The Tryst follows Trey Blackburn as he reconnects with Holland Rhodes. These two have significant history that will need to be overcome before they can move on with their lives.
Trey and Holland have grown up together and been friends since they were children. As they got older, their relationship changed. But they kept their relationship quiet from everyone.
As children, Holland spent many hours at the Blackburn home and in the barn. She took riding lessons from Tommy Blackburn. She would go to the pond with the Blackburn children. And she would have many dinners with the family. She was a member of the family just not by birth.
However, when a choice is made outside of her control, she runs away.
When Holland returns to bury her father and assess the print shop her dad owned, she steels herself for the reunion with the Blackburns. When she left, years ago, she never kept in touch with any of the Blackburns.
When all of the Blackburn family shows up to support her and her mother at her father's funeral, she remembers what it was like to be part of their family. But she avoids one member of the family.
Trey is on a mission to correct the wrong decision he made years ago. But will Holland let him? She is hurt and angry still. He made a unilateral decision that directly impacted her life.
As Holland is going through the print shop, Trey is working on updating the floors, paint, counters and facade. The building is so run down, it needs a complete makeover. Over time, Holland brings the business into the 21st century.
The family is excited to see Trey and Holland together. Well, everyone except one member of the family.
When history repeats itself, what decision will be made this time? And what will the ramifications be?
I loved Sean Masters as Trey. His gruffness as an alpha male taking control. And yet his tenderness when he and Holland are alone together. Kit Swann is always delightful to listen to. I loved her as Holland and as Fee in the emotionally gripping scenes.
The Tryst follows Trey Blackburn as he reconnects with Holland Rhodes. These two have significant history that will need to be overcome before they can move on with their lives.
Trey and Holland have grown up together and been friends since they were children. As they got older, their relationship changed. But they kept their relationship quiet from everyone.
As children, Holland spent many hours at the Blackburn home and in the barn. She took riding lessons from Tommy Blackburn. She would go to the pond with the Blackburn children. And she would have many dinners with the family. She was a member of the family just not by birth.
However, when a choice is made outside of her control, she runs away.
When Holland returns to bury her father and assess the print shop her dad owned, she steels herself for the reunion with the Blackburns. When she left, years ago, she never kept in touch with any of the Blackburns.
When all of the Blackburn family shows up to support her and her mother at her father's funeral, she remembers what it was like to be part of their family. But she avoids one member of the family.
Trey is on a mission to correct the wrong decision he made years ago. But will Holland let him? She is hurt and angry still. He made a unilateral decision that directly impacted her life.
As Holland is going through the print shop, Trey is working on updating the floors, paint, counters and facade. The building is so run down, it needs a complete makeover. Over time, Holland brings the business into the 21st century.
The family is excited to see Trey and Holland together. Well, everyone except one member of the family.
When history repeats itself, what decision will be made this time? And what will the ramifications be?
I loved Sean Masters as Trey. His gruffness as an alpha male taking control. And yet his tenderness when he and Holland are alone together. Kit Swann is always delightful to listen to. I loved her as Holland and as Fee in the emotionally gripping scenes.
October 29, 2024
Holland Rhodes had a terrible home life growing up so she spent all her time with the Blackburn family. She spent her days hanging out with Trey, who was 4 years older than her; Wade, who was her age and Kat and Abby, twins who were 2 years younger than her. Ethan never hung with them because he was the oldest and had better things to do. Over the course of all those years, Holland developed a crush on Trey. Finally when she was eighteen years old he kissed her and it started their summer of love until just before she left for college he broke up with her. Crushed, Holland changed her plans and ended up studying in Europe. She needed to get far away from Shelbyville, KY her parents and especially Trey Blackburn!
Fast forward eleven years. Holland is living in Zurich, Switzerland working as a senior business consultant for Global Strategies, Ltd. When her father passes away, Holland finds herself having to come back to Shelbyville because her mother needs help the funeral and the family business, Rhodes Printing. Of course she is not looking forward to seeing Trey...she is still very hurt and angry at him. When Holland finally sees Trey, all those feelings come rushing back for both of them. Trey knew he was in the wrong and is going to do whatever he can to win Holland back.
As Trey and Holland spend more time together, they find themselves in the same place they were eleven years ago.....making plans for the future. When Trey gets thrown a curve ball and history repeats itself, Trey decides to take a different course of action this time and it ends up causing a devastating tragedy and their entire world falls apart. In the end it will take a lot of inner reflection for Trey and Holland to find their way back to each other but it will be a beautiful ride.
I just adored this second chance romance. We thought Trey was just floating through life but we find out he's still pining for ex. It was wonderful to see the romance Holland and Trey had and the new journey these two are now on. There are a few twists and turns (make sure you have some tissues!) but in the end everything has a happy ending.
Fast forward eleven years. Holland is living in Zurich, Switzerland working as a senior business consultant for Global Strategies, Ltd. When her father passes away, Holland finds herself having to come back to Shelbyville because her mother needs help the funeral and the family business, Rhodes Printing. Of course she is not looking forward to seeing Trey...she is still very hurt and angry at him. When Holland finally sees Trey, all those feelings come rushing back for both of them. Trey knew he was in the wrong and is going to do whatever he can to win Holland back.
As Trey and Holland spend more time together, they find themselves in the same place they were eleven years ago.....making plans for the future. When Trey gets thrown a curve ball and history repeats itself, Trey decides to take a different course of action this time and it ends up causing a devastating tragedy and their entire world falls apart. In the end it will take a lot of inner reflection for Trey and Holland to find their way back to each other but it will be a beautiful ride.
I just adored this second chance romance. We thought Trey was just floating through life but we find out he's still pining for ex. It was wonderful to see the romance Holland and Trey had and the new journey these two are now on. There are a few twists and turns (make sure you have some tissues!) but in the end everything has a happy ending.
October 28, 2024
This is Trey Blackburn's story, He has seen his older brother find love and build a family and his sister find love with an enemy. And now his teen secret sweetheart is coming home.
Holland Rhodes left Kentucky and never came back. It has now been eleven years but she cannot avoid it due to dealing with her father's estate. And while she is excited to see her pseudo-adoptive family, The Blackburns, she wishes to avoid Trey and rehashing their painful past. He is one of the reasons she stayed away and she is guarded, stubborn, and still bitter.
Angry kisses, unresolved sexual chemistry, and shared memories lead to a new secret tryst. But Trey is stubborn and regretful and is now determined to make amends and possibly even win her back. She is willing to explore their residual chemistry but just plans to leave him and return to her normal life.
But the situation get more heated, more emotional, and more complicated. And then things take a more surprising turn.
I really liked these two together and was rooting for their second chance. I was not sure where exactly the story was going and it did surprise me. Trey is a man who has lived with regrets and guilt, but now he is hit with more. And Holland has to figure out where she belongs. It is an emotional, coming home, found family, second-chance romance told in the present day and flashbacks from dual points of view. It brings back all of the previous couples and family members and gives us a nice wrap-up for them.
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Holland Rhodes left Kentucky and never came back. It has now been eleven years but she cannot avoid it due to dealing with her father's estate. And while she is excited to see her pseudo-adoptive family, The Blackburns, she wishes to avoid Trey and rehashing their painful past. He is one of the reasons she stayed away and she is guarded, stubborn, and still bitter.
Angry kisses, unresolved sexual chemistry, and shared memories lead to a new secret tryst. But Trey is stubborn and regretful and is now determined to make amends and possibly even win her back. She is willing to explore their residual chemistry but just plans to leave him and return to her normal life.
But the situation get more heated, more emotional, and more complicated. And then things take a more surprising turn.
I really liked these two together and was rooting for their second chance. I was not sure where exactly the story was going and it did surprise me. Trey is a man who has lived with regrets and guilt, but now he is hit with more. And Holland has to figure out where she belongs. It is an emotional, coming home, found family, second-chance romance told in the present day and flashbacks from dual points of view. It brings back all of the previous couples and family members and gives us a nice wrap-up for them.
November 17, 2024
I read an earlier book in this series by this author and it had a lot of promise, so I thought I'd try a second in the same series.
No. Do NOT read this book. There are a couple of giant issues and I feel a lot of anger towards the author that she didn't include some trigger warnings. I read romance because I have had a great loss and I read to manage my grief. It doesn't help when a romance turns into a tragedy and unless it happens off page and prior to the story, I want to know in advance. Shame on Sawyer Bennett for not making that clear (at least in the audible version).
What we find out relatively quickly, is that the MMC, Trey, who is part of a family of 5 siblings, fell in love at 22yo with an 18yo girl who had grown up close to the family. They kept their love quiet and the literal day that they were going to tell the family, Trey's younger brother told Trey that he was in love with the same girl.
So instead of telling his younger brother that he was secretly seeing this woman, he breaks up with the woman so that his younger brother can try his hand. WTF? I mean that is seriously disturbed. Trey comes from a loving, happy family. He has no trauma. Does he think this woman that he is madly in love with is just going to go over to his brother? It makes ZERO sense. The woman, who is wise at 18, gives Trey quite a few choices before Trey just says no and leaves her. I mean, I should have stopped there.
But then
This is a romance. If you want to write something different, don't put it in a romance series. Ugh. Just do not read.
FWIW - the narrators were outstanding.
No. Do NOT read this book. There are a couple of giant issues and I feel a lot of anger towards the author that she didn't include some trigger warnings. I read romance because I have had a great loss and I read to manage my grief. It doesn't help when a romance turns into a tragedy and unless it happens off page and prior to the story, I want to know in advance. Shame on Sawyer Bennett for not making that clear (at least in the audible version).
What we find out relatively quickly, is that the MMC, Trey, who is part of a family of 5 siblings, fell in love at 22yo with an 18yo girl who had grown up close to the family. They kept their love quiet and the literal day that they were going to tell the family, Trey's younger brother told Trey that he was in love with the same girl.
So instead of telling his younger brother that he was secretly seeing this woman, he breaks up with the woman so that his younger brother can try his hand. WTF? I mean that is seriously disturbed. Trey comes from a loving, happy family. He has no trauma. Does he think this woman that he is madly in love with is just going to go over to his brother? It makes ZERO sense. The woman, who is wise at 18, gives Trey quite a few choices before Trey just says no and leaves her. I mean, I should have stopped there.
But then
This is a romance. If you want to write something different, don't put it in a romance series. Ugh. Just do not read.
FWIW - the narrators were outstanding.
October 29, 2024
Review by Trinette Dungee
Growing up, the Blackburn’s were more family to Holland Rhodes than her own parents. Since leaving for collage, it’s been more than ten years since she’s been home or seen parents. Now she’s back to bury her father and help her mother tie up his affairs, and this means reconnecting the Blackburn Family including Trey Blackburn. Unbeknownst to everyone she knows/knew, Holland’s reason for leaving Shelbyville behind had more to do with Trey Blackburn than anything else.
For Trey Blackburn the return of Holland Rhodes to Shelbyville, means facing his past. Bringing up old memories, acknowledging the hurt and pain he inflicted on her as well as himself. It means finally coming clean to Holland, and maybe even having a second chance with her. It also means possible hurting someone close to him in order to have that second chance.
I loved this series so much, this by far was my favorite book. A second chance romance where once again Sawyer has given just the right amount of spice, angst, tragedy, heartbreak, and a little bit of a love triangle. The pace and the flow were perfect. The chemistry between the two characters was something of a slow simmer, and it was perfect for them and this story. I didn’t care much for Trey in the first two books, but I liked him a little better in this story. Is he my favorite Blackburn brother? No. However, he is the brother that, to me, sacrificed and gave up the most which makes him the one I respected the most. He was definitely a “suffer in silence” type of man that tugged at my heartstrings.
Without giving away too much, Sawyer Bennett has yet again thrown a curve ball in a story that steals your breath. The curve ball was one of the things that made me love this book so much. Everyone wants a HEA, but sometimes the author has to take the unpopular road and shake things up a bit. That can sometimes be a risky move, but I think the risk paid off. I’m still in my feelings about it.
Growing up, the Blackburn’s were more family to Holland Rhodes than her own parents. Since leaving for collage, it’s been more than ten years since she’s been home or seen parents. Now she’s back to bury her father and help her mother tie up his affairs, and this means reconnecting the Blackburn Family including Trey Blackburn. Unbeknownst to everyone she knows/knew, Holland’s reason for leaving Shelbyville behind had more to do with Trey Blackburn than anything else.
For Trey Blackburn the return of Holland Rhodes to Shelbyville, means facing his past. Bringing up old memories, acknowledging the hurt and pain he inflicted on her as well as himself. It means finally coming clean to Holland, and maybe even having a second chance with her. It also means possible hurting someone close to him in order to have that second chance.
I loved this series so much, this by far was my favorite book. A second chance romance where once again Sawyer has given just the right amount of spice, angst, tragedy, heartbreak, and a little bit of a love triangle. The pace and the flow were perfect. The chemistry between the two characters was something of a slow simmer, and it was perfect for them and this story. I didn’t care much for Trey in the first two books, but I liked him a little better in this story. Is he my favorite Blackburn brother? No. However, he is the brother that, to me, sacrificed and gave up the most which makes him the one I respected the most. He was definitely a “suffer in silence” type of man that tugged at my heartstrings.
Without giving away too much, Sawyer Bennett has yet again thrown a curve ball in a story that steals your breath. The curve ball was one of the things that made me love this book so much. Everyone wants a HEA, but sometimes the author has to take the unpopular road and shake things up a bit. That can sometimes be a risky move, but I think the risk paid off. I’m still in my feelings about it.
October 27, 2024
This poignant second chance romance took my breath away and stole my heart. Bennett drew me right into this story and I felt like I lived every emotion. Trey Blackburn and Holland Rhodes grew up together with the Blackburn family welcoming her when her home life wasn't the best. The summer before college, Their feelings were more than familial and Trey and Holland began a romantic relationship. But then complications made Holland leave town brokenhearted. Now over a decade later, Holland is back and trying to avoid the Blackburn's. But Trey and his family bulldoze their way back into her life. Holland feels safe with them and with Trey, and they begin to rekindle their love. But when tragedy strikes, will they repeat their past mistakes or find a way to fight for each other? I loved the tension in Trey and Holland's reunion, and the heat between them was off the charts as if no time had passed. Their story was heartbreaking at times which only made their reunion all the sweeter. I also loved catching up with all the Blackburn's who were all essential in this story that made me laugh and moved me to tears. I love second chance romances and Trey and Holland's story isn’t easy but it’s so beautiful and it’s so worth it.
Narrators Kit Swann and Sean Masters deliver exceptional performances of this audiobook. Swann infuses Holland's character with determination and vulnerability, capturing her essence. Masters portrays Trey's complexity, charm, and pain flawlessly. Their dynamic and captivating performance brings depth to all the characters, and make this story even more engaging.
This is a beautiful, amazing, emotional, and swoony love story that will hold you captive until the very last page!
Narrators Kit Swann and Sean Masters deliver exceptional performances of this audiobook. Swann infuses Holland's character with determination and vulnerability, capturing her essence. Masters portrays Trey's complexity, charm, and pain flawlessly. Their dynamic and captivating performance brings depth to all the characters, and make this story even more engaging.
This is a beautiful, amazing, emotional, and swoony love story that will hold you captive until the very last page!
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