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Haven Bay #1
Coming Home: A Haven Bay novel
Avery
I’ve been with the same man since I was sixteen-years-old. Somewhere along the way, I lost myself to being the perfect wife and mother.
Months ago, I finally mustered up the courage to ask him for a divorce but I never really got out from under his thumb. So when my mother falls sick, my four-year-old son and I head back to where it all began—Haven Bay.
Jobless, broke, and with an impending custody battle breathing down my neck, the last thing I need is a new relationship. So, when my childhood best friend comes back into my life, I vow to keep it platonic. He’s always had a piece of my heart, but I won’t risk losing myself to another man. I can’t.
Can I?
Matt
I’m the town jokester; always good for a laugh. But there’s more to me than just jokes. A side of me that no one else sees.
Avery and I had been best friends since we were kids until she started dating Mitch Olsen and moved away. She’s been gone for over ten years, taking a piece of my heart with her.
Now, the girl that got away is back in town and I’m not about to lose her again — no matter what.
But can the only girl to capture my heart love me for who I truly am?
I’ve been with the same man since I was sixteen-years-old. Somewhere along the way, I lost myself to being the perfect wife and mother.
Months ago, I finally mustered up the courage to ask him for a divorce but I never really got out from under his thumb. So when my mother falls sick, my four-year-old son and I head back to where it all began—Haven Bay.
Jobless, broke, and with an impending custody battle breathing down my neck, the last thing I need is a new relationship. So, when my childhood best friend comes back into my life, I vow to keep it platonic. He’s always had a piece of my heart, but I won’t risk losing myself to another man. I can’t.
Can I?
Matt
I’m the town jokester; always good for a laugh. But there’s more to me than just jokes. A side of me that no one else sees.
Avery and I had been best friends since we were kids until she started dating Mitch Olsen and moved away. She’s been gone for over ten years, taking a piece of my heart with her.
Now, the girl that got away is back in town and I’m not about to lose her again — no matter what.
But can the only girl to capture my heart love me for who I truly am?
394 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 13, 2024
15 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 14, 2024
What an incredible debut book🥹
I devoured this book and I am so SAD it’s over🥺
This was so perfectly written. Seeing Averys growth throughout the book was perfect. She is such a strong brave FMC and would do ANYTHING for Gavin her adorable as heck little boy!
Matt and Avery were childhood best friends but Matt has always loved her. And now she’s back, he wants a chance. Reading about their friendship and seeing their relationship grow was perfect. Matt was slow and took everything at Averys pace. He’s protective but knows how strong Avery is!
This was perfect!!♥️
I devoured this book and I am so SAD it’s over🥺
This was so perfectly written. Seeing Averys growth throughout the book was perfect. She is such a strong brave FMC and would do ANYTHING for Gavin her adorable as heck little boy!
Matt and Avery were childhood best friends but Matt has always loved her. And now she’s back, he wants a chance. Reading about their friendship and seeing their relationship grow was perfect. Matt was slow and took everything at Averys pace. He’s protective but knows how strong Avery is!
This was perfect!!♥️
June 24, 2024
Coming Home is about a single mom moving back to small town Haven Bay with her sweet little boy because of her mom’s progressing illness… ALSO to get away from her asshole ex-husband!
Not only has Avery started to feel like her self again since moving home, she is starting to feel a strong connection with her childhood best friend Matt 💙
Matt is EVERYTHING you want in a book boyfriend! Strong, sexy, shy, works in construction… the whole package!
Small town romance meets friends to lovers meets he falls first meets serious good spice 💙 #swoonworthy
Coming Home is going to be published on July 12th 2024!
Not only has Avery started to feel like her self again since moving home, she is starting to feel a strong connection with her childhood best friend Matt 💙
Matt is EVERYTHING you want in a book boyfriend! Strong, sexy, shy, works in construction… the whole package!
Small town romance meets friends to lovers meets he falls first meets serious good spice 💙 #swoonworthy
Coming Home is going to be published on July 12th 2024!
July 12, 2024
Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️💫/5
Spice 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ /5
Humor: 😆😆😆/5
*ARC REVIEW*
Coming Home is such a heartwarming story about a single mom moving back to her small town home of Haven Bay with her sweet little boy because of her mom’s progressing illness MS and to get away from her asshole ex-husband! Yea, I said it. IYKYK
Avery is someone who lost her true self in the midst of a relationship, a dying marriage and motherhood. She didn’t know who she was and happiness was the furthest thing from her current state. All she wanted was to find herself again, and truly be happy. But staying in her current situash any longer wasn’t going to bring her back. So with that, and her mom’s recent hospital stay, it couldn’t have come at a better time. She was headed back to Haven Bay. Oh and also to file for divorce.
Enter Matt Brady, who is Avery’s childhood best friend. Wherever Avery was, sure enough Matt wasn’t far behind and vice versa. They literally did everything together, from hanging out, dinners with both families, evenings on the beach, pulling pranks was the biggest they were known for. Matt was especially known for the guy who’s always good for a laugh, but also known in the town as a hard worker. Matt is EVERYTHING you want in a book boyfriend!🥰 Strong, sexy, shy, dependable, broody, works in construction and sexy AF 😍❤️… literally the definition of the whole package! 👌🏻
It’s been over a decade since Avery has been in Haven Bay, and crossing paths with Matt, that it doesn’t take long for their friendship to pick up as if they never lost any time in between.
Avery begins to find herself again through taking over her mothers bookstore, helping with the renovations and bookstore/cafe expansion, to even coming up with new programs not for just the bookstore but for the community. She soon creates a life she’s always wanted for herself and her son, Gavin. Matt is there, cheering her on, every step of the way. Not only does Avery grow and find her true self again, but she helps Matt find his true calling and what he was always meant to do. It was truly inspiring and moving. Their story is so heartfelt and swoon worthy 🥰 that even though Matt was so sweet, dirty talk Matt is 🥵.
Coming Home will be released July 12th 2024!
Spice 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ /5
Humor: 😆😆😆/5
*ARC REVIEW*
Coming Home is such a heartwarming story about a single mom moving back to her small town home of Haven Bay with her sweet little boy because of her mom’s progressing illness MS and to get away from her asshole ex-husband! Yea, I said it. IYKYK
Avery is someone who lost her true self in the midst of a relationship, a dying marriage and motherhood. She didn’t know who she was and happiness was the furthest thing from her current state. All she wanted was to find herself again, and truly be happy. But staying in her current situash any longer wasn’t going to bring her back. So with that, and her mom’s recent hospital stay, it couldn’t have come at a better time. She was headed back to Haven Bay. Oh and also to file for divorce.
Enter Matt Brady, who is Avery’s childhood best friend. Wherever Avery was, sure enough Matt wasn’t far behind and vice versa. They literally did everything together, from hanging out, dinners with both families, evenings on the beach, pulling pranks was the biggest they were known for. Matt was especially known for the guy who’s always good for a laugh, but also known in the town as a hard worker. Matt is EVERYTHING you want in a book boyfriend!🥰 Strong, sexy, shy, dependable, broody, works in construction and sexy AF 😍❤️… literally the definition of the whole package! 👌🏻
It’s been over a decade since Avery has been in Haven Bay, and crossing paths with Matt, that it doesn’t take long for their friendship to pick up as if they never lost any time in between.
Avery begins to find herself again through taking over her mothers bookstore, helping with the renovations and bookstore/cafe expansion, to even coming up with new programs not for just the bookstore but for the community. She soon creates a life she’s always wanted for herself and her son, Gavin. Matt is there, cheering her on, every step of the way. Not only does Avery grow and find her true self again, but she helps Matt find his true calling and what he was always meant to do. It was truly inspiring and moving. Their story is so heartfelt and swoon worthy 🥰 that even though Matt was so sweet, dirty talk Matt is 🥵.
Coming Home will be released July 12th 2024!
June 21, 2024
*arc review*
What an amazing debut!!
Avery is single mother who recently separated from her husband, and moved back to her hometown to help her mom.
Matt is her childhood best friend. The guy who’s always good for a laugh, and a hard worker.
Crossing paths again years later, we see their relationship bloom. Avery begins to find herself again and creates a life she’s always wanted for herself and her son, Gavin. Matt is there, cheering her on. Not only does Gavin come out of his shell, but so do Avery and Matt. Their story is so heartfelt and warm.
While flirty Matt is adorable, dirty talk Matt is 🥵.
We’ve got small town romance, childhood best friends to lovers, found family, banter, laughter and we’ve got spiiice🌶️
What an amazing debut!!
Avery is single mother who recently separated from her husband, and moved back to her hometown to help her mom.
Matt is her childhood best friend. The guy who’s always good for a laugh, and a hard worker.
Crossing paths again years later, we see their relationship bloom. Avery begins to find herself again and creates a life she’s always wanted for herself and her son, Gavin. Matt is there, cheering her on. Not only does Gavin come out of his shell, but so do Avery and Matt. Their story is so heartfelt and warm.
While flirty Matt is adorable, dirty talk Matt is 🥵.
We’ve got small town romance, childhood best friends to lovers, found family, banter, laughter and we’ve got spiiice🌶️
July 12, 2024
WOW! I ate this book like a starving woman!!
Everyone needs a man like Matt, someone who loves fiercely and let's their person shine, who supports them to the fullest and protects them with their whole self.
Avery and the way she loves that sweet boy. 😍 I love her growth in this book. The way she finds her way back to the woman she used to be and the happiness she deserves. This woman is whitty, smart, and so brave for standing up for what she wants.
The side characters in this book are also funny and amazing! It's not something you always get in a good book. The way I laughed in parts of this book.
If you love second chance, friends to lovers, small town romance with a brave woman and the man that's always loved her, then this book is for you!
I'm so excited to see where Katie takes us next!! 🥰
Everyone needs a man like Matt, someone who loves fiercely and let's their person shine, who supports them to the fullest and protects them with their whole self.
Avery and the way she loves that sweet boy. 😍 I love her growth in this book. The way she finds her way back to the woman she used to be and the happiness she deserves. This woman is whitty, smart, and so brave for standing up for what she wants.
The side characters in this book are also funny and amazing! It's not something you always get in a good book. The way I laughed in parts of this book.
If you love second chance, friends to lovers, small town romance with a brave woman and the man that's always loved her, then this book is for you!
I'm so excited to see where Katie takes us next!! 🥰
July 12, 2024
ARC Review!
I loved this small town romance! Avery was very relatable and realistic. It was nice to see her find herself again, after going through a tough marriage and being a a single mom. ❤️
This book was funny, heartwarming and a tear jerker, and can’t forget about the spice! 🥵 🌶️
I can’t wait for the next book in the Haven Bay series!
Tropes: single mom, childhood friends to lovers, small town
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved this small town romance! Avery was very relatable and realistic. It was nice to see her find herself again, after going through a tough marriage and being a a single mom. ❤️
This book was funny, heartwarming and a tear jerker, and can’t forget about the spice! 🥵 🌶️
I can’t wait for the next book in the Haven Bay series!
Tropes: single mom, childhood friends to lovers, small town
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 12, 2024
Spice Level: 3
Tropes:
small town
friends to lovers
second chance
He falls first
single mom
golden retriever MMC
2 POVs
Coming Home follows 2 POVS: Avery and Matt, who were childhood best friends. Both losing their dads when they were young, they bonded as kids growing up in a small, tourist town. When they became teenagers, they began to drift apart when Avery started dating a "city" boy.
11 years later, Avery has left her husband, packed her 4 yr old up and has moved back home to help her mom, who has issues with MS, run her independent bookstore. Having not seen Matt since highschool, maybe even college, Avery and Matt run into one another for the first time in years.
Can Matt show Avery what true love really looks like? And can Avery help show Matt that you can be true to yourself, and not always be who you think everyone thinks you are?
I just adored Matt, Avery, and Gavin (Avery's son). Even the side characters like Dottie and Maeve were fantastic! Matt is kind, a little self-insecure, and ever so patient with Avery and Gavin. He's been in love with Avery since they were teens and he's ready for shot, on Avery's terms. He's so good with Gavin, it's heart tugging. Avery is learning, after a bad marriage, that she doesn't have to change who she is for anyone. I loved seeing her character growth. And Gavin. Oh that precious baby! His character growth from being a scared little 4 year old to one who's like "Mom! Let me go!" makes me happy and sad (as a mom).
All the side characters have the wittiest banter. Especially dirty minded old ladies Dottie and Maeve. They made me laugh out loud. I hope to be them when I'm old HAHAHA.
I really hope there's a 2nd book of Haven Bay so we can get more of all these characters!
Tropes:
small town
friends to lovers
second chance
He falls first
single mom
golden retriever MMC
2 POVs
Coming Home follows 2 POVS: Avery and Matt, who were childhood best friends. Both losing their dads when they were young, they bonded as kids growing up in a small, tourist town. When they became teenagers, they began to drift apart when Avery started dating a "city" boy.
11 years later, Avery has left her husband, packed her 4 yr old up and has moved back home to help her mom, who has issues with MS, run her independent bookstore. Having not seen Matt since highschool, maybe even college, Avery and Matt run into one another for the first time in years.
Can Matt show Avery what true love really looks like? And can Avery help show Matt that you can be true to yourself, and not always be who you think everyone thinks you are?
I just adored Matt, Avery, and Gavin (Avery's son). Even the side characters like Dottie and Maeve were fantastic! Matt is kind, a little self-insecure, and ever so patient with Avery and Gavin. He's been in love with Avery since they were teens and he's ready for shot, on Avery's terms. He's so good with Gavin, it's heart tugging. Avery is learning, after a bad marriage, that she doesn't have to change who she is for anyone. I loved seeing her character growth. And Gavin. Oh that precious baby! His character growth from being a scared little 4 year old to one who's like "Mom! Let me go!" makes me happy and sad (as a mom).
All the side characters have the wittiest banter. Especially dirty minded old ladies Dottie and Maeve. They made me laugh out loud. I hope to be them when I'm old HAHAHA.
I really hope there's a 2nd book of Haven Bay so we can get more of all these characters!
March 25, 2025
This book was cute… small town .. childhood best friend to lovers vibe.
There were issues that I had around the structure, pacing and some of the storyline but it a was a cute easy read that had me intrigued to continue the story. Overall a good read which is why I gave this a 3 ⭐️
There was a LOT of spice and rightfully so after being friends since they were children they know each other so well. I also thought it was funny that Mitch made her feel like something was wrong with her and Matt said hold my beer 👀🌶️
Gavin was absolutely adorable this whole book I couldn’t get enough of him.
Matt and Avery were cute and in the end it was nice Mitch saw her happy and let her live her life. Something told me Mitch knew he never made her happy the way Matt did.
Katie did a good job with her debut novel getting me excited to read the next book with her involvement of the other characters. I am looking forward to continuing the series.
There were issues that I had around the structure, pacing and some of the storyline but it a was a cute easy read that had me intrigued to continue the story. Overall a good read which is why I gave this a 3 ⭐️
There was a LOT of spice and rightfully so after being friends since they were children they know each other so well. I also thought it was funny that Mitch made her feel like something was wrong with her and Matt said hold my beer 👀🌶️
Gavin was absolutely adorable this whole book I couldn’t get enough of him.
Matt and Avery were cute and in the end it was nice Mitch saw her happy and let her live her life. Something told me Mitch knew he never made her happy the way Matt did.
Katie did a good job with her debut novel getting me excited to read the next book with her involvement of the other characters. I am looking forward to continuing the series.
June 23, 2024
*arc review*
this book is beautifully written and delicately shows how hard divorce can be. it is a romantic, heartfelt debut novel. Avery’s growth and Gavin’s character development are want you wang in a book. You don’t want characters who don’t change and don’t learn. You won’t get that in this book whatsoever. EVERY SINGLE character has growth and either fixes mistakes or changes in some way and it’s beautiful.
Also on a smutty note, lemme just say that the spice is spicing. 🥵
what’s strange is that most of the tropes in the book are things i usually don’t like in books but Katie wrote them so amazingly i couldn’t help but love them. Do you’re self a favour and read this book. You won’t reget it.
Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
Spice 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ /5
Humor 💛💛💛/5
Tears (not me personally but there might be for some people) 💧💧💧/5
this book is beautifully written and delicately shows how hard divorce can be. it is a romantic, heartfelt debut novel. Avery’s growth and Gavin’s character development are want you wang in a book. You don’t want characters who don’t change and don’t learn. You won’t get that in this book whatsoever. EVERY SINGLE character has growth and either fixes mistakes or changes in some way and it’s beautiful.
Also on a smutty note, lemme just say that the spice is spicing. 🥵
what’s strange is that most of the tropes in the book are things i usually don’t like in books but Katie wrote them so amazingly i couldn’t help but love them. Do you’re self a favour and read this book. You won’t reget it.
Rating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
Spice 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ /5
Humor 💛💛💛/5
Tears (not me personally but there might be for some people) 💧💧💧/5
April 8, 2025
I need this series!!
I cannot express how much I need the rest of this series immediately.
I laughed.
I cried.
I swooned.
I laughed some more.
The characters have so much depth and connection. The emotions are raw and real. There is tragedy, joy, and hope. And good lord them little ol' ladies had me kickin' my boots!!
I'm not going to be mad if someone meets a cowboy in this series... Just sayin'.
I cannot express how much I need the rest of this series immediately.
I laughed.
I cried.
I swooned.
I laughed some more.
The characters have so much depth and connection. The emotions are raw and real. There is tragedy, joy, and hope. And good lord them little ol' ladies had me kickin' my boots!!
I'm not going to be mad if someone meets a cowboy in this series... Just sayin'.
September 28, 2025
I really liked this book and seeing Matt and Avery fall in love. I also LOVED Matt’s relationship with Gavin and seeing him really step into the father role. I’m really glad in the end Mitch realized he was wrong and worked to be better, because I feel like so many times with the single mother trope the bd is vilified and never gets a relationship with the child so I was glad to see a different end to that trope.
I’m excited to see what else is in store for this little town!
I’m excited to see what else is in store for this little town!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2025
This was a great book to read and very easy to devour! I enjoyed Avery’s character and storyline a lot and found myself feeling as though I was a part of the story as well. Haven Bay reminds of my the small town that I grew up in making the book feel very relatable, and it also gave me some major Gilmore Girls + Stars Hollow vibes which I loved!
The only reason why I didn’t rate this a 5 star was because I felt Matt’s character lacked depth. There wasn’t really much to his character and he was just a very low key guy. Not the type of guys I usually enjoy reading about but his character fit well in this story.
I started reading this book once I got the approval to be an ARC reader for the second book and I’m glad I read this to help me visualize the town and characters before i read the next one! I enjoyed getting to see Avery and Matt’s relationship blossom through this book and can’t wait to read about Jolie and Luke’s in the next!
The only reason why I didn’t rate this a 5 star was because I felt Matt’s character lacked depth. There wasn’t really much to his character and he was just a very low key guy. Not the type of guys I usually enjoy reading about but his character fit well in this story.
I started reading this book once I got the approval to be an ARC reader for the second book and I’m glad I read this to help me visualize the town and characters before i read the next one! I enjoyed getting to see Avery and Matt’s relationship blossom through this book and can’t wait to read about Jolie and Luke’s in the next!
July 8, 2024
If Gilmore Girls is your favourite show, this is the book for you 😍 Matt & Avery are my new Luke & Lorelei 🫶🏼
I could have finished this book in a few days but I dragged it out because I really didn’t want to finish it so fast 😭 Small town romance, single mum, found family, golden retriever MMC, this book was exactly the read I needed 🩵 and the spice 😮💨🌶️
(They could never make me like you Mitch)
A massive thank you to Katie for this ARC read, I’m so grateful to have been able to read this and I cannot wait for everyone else to read Matt & Avery’s (& of course Gavin’s) story 💙
I cannot wait to read more of Katie’s work 🙌🏻
I could have finished this book in a few days but I dragged it out because I really didn’t want to finish it so fast 😭 Small town romance, single mum, found family, golden retriever MMC, this book was exactly the read I needed 🩵 and the spice 😮💨🌶️
(They could never make me like you Mitch)
A massive thank you to Katie for this ARC read, I’m so grateful to have been able to read this and I cannot wait for everyone else to read Matt & Avery’s (& of course Gavin’s) story 💙
I cannot wait to read more of Katie’s work 🙌🏻
July 12, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 3/5
"The best thing about small towns is that nothing ever changes. The worst thing about small towns is that nothing ever changes."
Avery has been with the same guy since she was sixteen, losing herself to being the perfect wife and mom. She finally asked for a divorce, but still can’t shake his control. When her mom gets sick, she heads back to Haven Bay with her son, dealing with being broke and a custody battle. She reconnects with her childhood best friend and tries to keep things platonic, even though they’ve always had a special bond. Meanwhile, Matt, the town jokester with a deeper side, is determined not to let Avery slip away again and hopes she can love him for who he really is.
Coming Home is Katie Beck's debut novel, and it blew me away! This small-town romance features an adorable childhood best friends-to-lovers situation, found family, and literal laugh-out-loud moments. I devoured this book!
The writing in this novel is excellent. The banter and chemistry between Avery and Matt are outstanding! They pick up right where they left off, and you can feel their chemistry and tension immediately, making that build-up so satisfying. Avery is portrayed as a strong woman who always puts her son first. I love it when female main characters thrive after leaving a bad situation, and I enjoyed how Avery’s journey began early in the book. She starts to heal right away, so we get to see her whole journey. And let’s not forget about Matt! He is such a wholesome character who builds Avery up while respecting her immensely. I love seeing a supportive male main character who gives Avery the space to heal. But don’t get it twisted—Coming Home may be sweet, but the spice was spicing 🔥
The supporting characters are incredible too! I really want a Jolie and Luke story 🙌🏾 and I hope we see Dottie and Maeve make an appearance in future books—they were hilarious!
Lastly, let’s talk about the representation in this book! In addition to themes of leaving a controlling marriage and overcoming trauma, the story also addresses chronic illness (Multiple Sclerosis) and men’s mental health. Love to see it!
Read this book if you love a funny friends-to-lovers, small-town romance with incredible banter, strong women, and some pretty steamy scenes!
IG: @melissareadseverything
Spice: 3/5
"The best thing about small towns is that nothing ever changes. The worst thing about small towns is that nothing ever changes."
Avery has been with the same guy since she was sixteen, losing herself to being the perfect wife and mom. She finally asked for a divorce, but still can’t shake his control. When her mom gets sick, she heads back to Haven Bay with her son, dealing with being broke and a custody battle. She reconnects with her childhood best friend and tries to keep things platonic, even though they’ve always had a special bond. Meanwhile, Matt, the town jokester with a deeper side, is determined not to let Avery slip away again and hopes she can love him for who he really is.
Coming Home is Katie Beck's debut novel, and it blew me away! This small-town romance features an adorable childhood best friends-to-lovers situation, found family, and literal laugh-out-loud moments. I devoured this book!
The writing in this novel is excellent. The banter and chemistry between Avery and Matt are outstanding! They pick up right where they left off, and you can feel their chemistry and tension immediately, making that build-up so satisfying. Avery is portrayed as a strong woman who always puts her son first. I love it when female main characters thrive after leaving a bad situation, and I enjoyed how Avery’s journey began early in the book. She starts to heal right away, so we get to see her whole journey. And let’s not forget about Matt! He is such a wholesome character who builds Avery up while respecting her immensely. I love seeing a supportive male main character who gives Avery the space to heal. But don’t get it twisted—Coming Home may be sweet, but the spice was spicing 🔥
The supporting characters are incredible too! I really want a Jolie and Luke story 🙌🏾 and I hope we see Dottie and Maeve make an appearance in future books—they were hilarious!
Lastly, let’s talk about the representation in this book! In addition to themes of leaving a controlling marriage and overcoming trauma, the story also addresses chronic illness (Multiple Sclerosis) and men’s mental health. Love to see it!
Read this book if you love a funny friends-to-lovers, small-town romance with incredible banter, strong women, and some pretty steamy scenes!
IG: @melissareadseverything
July 13, 2024
Coming Home follows Avery, a wife and mother who returns to her hometown of Haven Bay amidst her mom’s illness and a pending divorce. Struggling with financial instability and a custody battle, she reconnects with her childhood best friend, Matt, intending to keep their relationship strictly platonic despite lingering feelings. Meanwhile, Matt sees Avery’s return as a chance to win back the love he’s always carried for her. As they navigate their intertwined past and uncertain futures, both are forced to confront their own vulnerabilities and desires, questioning whether they can truly find happiness together despite life’s current challenges.
This book was super sweet and is perfect if you love those happily ever afters. It was a full circle story not only for the FMC Avery, but also her childhood best friend, Matt. I loved the character development in this book - both main and supporting characters. I mean - who can deny a high EQ man like Matt? I think we can all agree more men like that would make the world a better place. There was certainly some laughs in there and I can already see the potential for a series following some of the other characters in the book! *cough* Jolie and Luke *cough* 😆
While the author did a good job of describing Haven Bay and setting the scene at the beginning, I felt like the book’s pace was a little slow to start.
Overall, I enjoyed this book for the way the author described and portrayed how empathy, self awareness and emotional intelligence really plays into a relationship, especially fragile or complicated ones. One of my favorite aspects of this book was how Matt made Gavin (Avery’s son) feel and open up. As a mom myself, I could relate to how the author portrayed Avery’s journey from losing herself in marriage and motherhood to her pain when seeing her son suffer from his dad’s lack of attention.
When I finished reading Coming Home, it felt like a hug because you could really feel good about how the story came full circle for everyone.
Thank you Katie Beck for providing me with an advanced reader copy for review!
This book was super sweet and is perfect if you love those happily ever afters. It was a full circle story not only for the FMC Avery, but also her childhood best friend, Matt. I loved the character development in this book - both main and supporting characters. I mean - who can deny a high EQ man like Matt? I think we can all agree more men like that would make the world a better place. There was certainly some laughs in there and I can already see the potential for a series following some of the other characters in the book! *cough* Jolie and Luke *cough* 😆
While the author did a good job of describing Haven Bay and setting the scene at the beginning, I felt like the book’s pace was a little slow to start.
Overall, I enjoyed this book for the way the author described and portrayed how empathy, self awareness and emotional intelligence really plays into a relationship, especially fragile or complicated ones. One of my favorite aspects of this book was how Matt made Gavin (Avery’s son) feel and open up. As a mom myself, I could relate to how the author portrayed Avery’s journey from losing herself in marriage and motherhood to her pain when seeing her son suffer from his dad’s lack of attention.
When I finished reading Coming Home, it felt like a hug because you could really feel good about how the story came full circle for everyone.
Thank you Katie Beck for providing me with an advanced reader copy for review!
April 11, 2025
Coming Home by Katie Beck is a beautifully layered, emotional story about rediscovery, healing, and the complicated ties of love and friendship. At the heart of the novel is Avery, a woman who has spent years losing herself in the role of wife and mother, only to find the courage to walk away from a controlling relationship. When a family emergency pulls her back to her hometown of Haven Bay, she’s forced to confront not only the pain of her past but the possibility of a new beginning.
What makes this story stand out is the dual perspective between Avery and Matt, her childhood best friend and the town jokester with hidden depth. Their chemistry simmers beneath the surface, built on years of history, unspoken truths, and what-ifs. Beck does a fantastic job showing how the characters evolve individually before even considering a romantic future together.
There’s a deep sense of vulnerability and strength woven into Avery’s journey, especially as she balances the struggles of single motherhood, an impending custody battle, and the challenge of trusting someone new. Matt’s perspective brings warmth and humor, but also heartbreak as he wrestles with his own fears and long-standing love for Avery.
If you’re looking for a second-chance romance that feels authentic, full of heart, and anchored in personal growth, Coming Home delivers.
What makes this story stand out is the dual perspective between Avery and Matt, her childhood best friend and the town jokester with hidden depth. Their chemistry simmers beneath the surface, built on years of history, unspoken truths, and what-ifs. Beck does a fantastic job showing how the characters evolve individually before even considering a romantic future together.
There’s a deep sense of vulnerability and strength woven into Avery’s journey, especially as she balances the struggles of single motherhood, an impending custody battle, and the challenge of trusting someone new. Matt’s perspective brings warmth and humor, but also heartbreak as he wrestles with his own fears and long-standing love for Avery.
If you’re looking for a second-chance romance that feels authentic, full of heart, and anchored in personal growth, Coming Home delivers.
July 4, 2024
I received this book as an ARC and these are my thoughts:
Avery returns to her home to the small town she grew up in after many years away. Now, a single mother on the verge of divorce, she finds that she has lost herself in the toxic relationship she had with her ex-husband and high school sweetheart. Can coming home prove to be the best decision for her and her son and can Avery find a way to discover whom she really is and give love a second chance?
I loved this book! It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Both Avery and Matt (MCs) had a lot of fears and insecurities and I appreciated the way they helped each other face their traumas and soothe the pain they each carried. It was a very balanced exchange. I liked that Matt took the opportunity, early on in the story, to tell Avery how he felt and then waited for her to meet him halfway. Their chemistry was sizzling. The spice was spicin’! I wanted to hit Avery’s ex-husband over the head on multiple occasions and the nickname Matt gave him was very appropriate 😏🤭
I loved Gavin! He was so sweet.
I had a few laughing fits with the town meddlers - Dottie and Maeve were two very inappropriate old ladies! 🫣😂
There were so many twists and turns and that third act hiccup (that, thankfully lasted for only a hot minute), had me at the edge of my seat!
I’d you like small town, childhood friends to lovers, character growth - where fears and insecurities are overcome, book café and supportive side characters (mothers, friends & siblings), then you’ll probably enjoy this book!
Avery returns to her home to the small town she grew up in after many years away. Now, a single mother on the verge of divorce, she finds that she has lost herself in the toxic relationship she had with her ex-husband and high school sweetheart. Can coming home prove to be the best decision for her and her son and can Avery find a way to discover whom she really is and give love a second chance?
I loved this book! It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Both Avery and Matt (MCs) had a lot of fears and insecurities and I appreciated the way they helped each other face their traumas and soothe the pain they each carried. It was a very balanced exchange. I liked that Matt took the opportunity, early on in the story, to tell Avery how he felt and then waited for her to meet him halfway. Their chemistry was sizzling. The spice was spicin’! I wanted to hit Avery’s ex-husband over the head on multiple occasions and the nickname Matt gave him was very appropriate 😏🤭
I loved Gavin! He was so sweet.
I had a few laughing fits with the town meddlers - Dottie and Maeve were two very inappropriate old ladies! 🫣😂
There were so many twists and turns and that third act hiccup (that, thankfully lasted for only a hot minute), had me at the edge of my seat!
I’d you like small town, childhood friends to lovers, character growth - where fears and insecurities are overcome, book café and supportive side characters (mothers, friends & siblings), then you’ll probably enjoy this book!
March 8, 2025
"It’s the kind of love that makes all the pain, hurt and uncertainty of the past worth it so you can feel the love you deserve. It feels like safety. Like unwavering support and belonging. It feels like coming home."
I hustled to get this one finished when I got confirmation that I'd been approved as an ARC reader for the 2nd book 🙌 I can not wait!
This book follows single mother Avery as she leaves a toxic marriage and returns home to help take care of her mom as she has some health struggles. Little does she know this trip back home is exactly what her and her son needed as well! I LOVED watching her and Matt fall in love and how he was with her son, and I loved how Avery was able to find her voice and thrive. She not only goes after what she wants but finally puts her foot down and fights for what both her and her son deserve.
This was warm and fuzzy and wholesome with the perfect amount of spice sprinkled in. If you enjoy found family, second chance romances, friends to lovers, and the small town backdrop, then this book is definitely for you!
I know book #2 is going to be Jolie and Luke's story, and I can't wait to dive in... but after finishing this book, I'm also hoping there will be a 3rd book with Rhett and his story... can you tell I'm 100% invested? Haha!
I hustled to get this one finished when I got confirmation that I'd been approved as an ARC reader for the 2nd book 🙌 I can not wait!
This book follows single mother Avery as she leaves a toxic marriage and returns home to help take care of her mom as she has some health struggles. Little does she know this trip back home is exactly what her and her son needed as well! I LOVED watching her and Matt fall in love and how he was with her son, and I loved how Avery was able to find her voice and thrive. She not only goes after what she wants but finally puts her foot down and fights for what both her and her son deserve.
This was warm and fuzzy and wholesome with the perfect amount of spice sprinkled in. If you enjoy found family, second chance romances, friends to lovers, and the small town backdrop, then this book is definitely for you!
I know book #2 is going to be Jolie and Luke's story, and I can't wait to dive in... but after finishing this book, I'm also hoping there will be a 3rd book with Rhett and his story... can you tell I'm 100% invested? Haha!
March 28, 2025
Review time! Coming Home by @author.katiebeck ! I binged both this, and book #2, Choosing Home, in a 24 hour period. No regrets. (5 ⭐️ review coming on that next!). I literally COULDN'T stop reading this series to even toss this review up before starting her soon to be released book #2 in the series. It's THAT. GOOD. I knew the premise going into it, and loved the cover, but then you open it, start reading it and holy hot stuff batman. I love and adore Matt and Avery so much! I am a sucker for a good found family trope, and this didn't disappoint. And their banter.....THEIR. BANTER. Gosh I love this book so much! Pretty sure I already messaged half of you screaming at you to go read this, but if I didn't, go add this to your TBR now! Oh! And did I mention this is Katie's debut novel?! She hit a homerun with this book! (#IYKYK 😉). Out now on Kindle & Paperback!
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🩵 Single mom
🩵 Golden retriever
🩵 He falls first and HARD
🩵 Small town
🩵 Found family
🩵 All the banter
🩵 Childhood friends to lovers
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🏷 #bookstagram #booksrecs #booktok #spicybooks #romancereader #romancebooks #spicybooks #Kindle #kindleunlimited #spicybookstagram #smalltownromance #hockeyromance #mfromance #newauthor #indieauthor #singlemomromance #bookrecommendations
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🩵 Single mom
🩵 Golden retriever
🩵 He falls first and HARD
🩵 Small town
🩵 Found family
🩵 All the banter
🩵 Childhood friends to lovers
.
🏷 #bookstagram #booksrecs #booktok #spicybooks #romancereader #romancebooks #spicybooks #Kindle #kindleunlimited #spicybookstagram #smalltownromance #hockeyromance #mfromance #newauthor #indieauthor #singlemomromance #bookrecommendations
March 25, 2025
Quite literally the sweetest “girl next door” story I have read in a long, long time.
Matt and Avery’s life-long friendship is something only a few are lucky enough to have and the love that stemmed from it (or was always there) is something most only dream about. It was so nice to escape into the world of Haven Bay and live through the hardships of Avery’s all too real life with her son, Gavin. From leaving a toxic relationship to falling hard for her childhood best friend - Coming Home encompasses romance, comedy and SPICE in a very relatable but magical way.
In my opinion, Coming Home has easily secured a place on my Top 10 list of favourite books… I am so SO happy I came across Katie Beck - I can’t wait to see what else she writes!
PS.. the fact that this is set in Canada and written by a Canadian author AND has spice makes this the perfect read. Hold onto your knickers ladies because Matt is swoon-worthy and sexy.
Matt and Avery’s life-long friendship is something only a few are lucky enough to have and the love that stemmed from it (or was always there) is something most only dream about. It was so nice to escape into the world of Haven Bay and live through the hardships of Avery’s all too real life with her son, Gavin. From leaving a toxic relationship to falling hard for her childhood best friend - Coming Home encompasses romance, comedy and SPICE in a very relatable but magical way.
In my opinion, Coming Home has easily secured a place on my Top 10 list of favourite books… I am so SO happy I came across Katie Beck - I can’t wait to see what else she writes!
PS.. the fact that this is set in Canada and written by a Canadian author AND has spice makes this the perfect read. Hold onto your knickers ladies because Matt is swoon-worthy and sexy.
April 1, 2025
I truly enjoyed this debut novel from Katie Beck. Couple things I loved about this book is that it is set in a small town in Canada, and secondly it has one of my favourite tropes - second chance.
Avery and Matt were childhood friends but choices put them on different paths. But years later circumstances bring them together where he falls first and hard, while she is tentative and looking for a fresh start.
Katie created two characters that have undeniable chemistry, developed a setting that is very imaginable and isn’t afraid to tackle some real life issues such as grief, family dynamics and personal growth. This is book 1 in the Haven Bay series. Can’t wait to start book 2.
If you are drawn to small town romance, second chances and found family, you’ll want to add this to your summer reads.
Avery and Matt were childhood friends but choices put them on different paths. But years later circumstances bring them together where he falls first and hard, while she is tentative and looking for a fresh start.
Katie created two characters that have undeniable chemistry, developed a setting that is very imaginable and isn’t afraid to tackle some real life issues such as grief, family dynamics and personal growth. This is book 1 in the Haven Bay series. Can’t wait to start book 2.
If you are drawn to small town romance, second chances and found family, you’ll want to add this to your summer reads.
July 11, 2024
This is such a sweet small town romance with some spice thrown in. Avery decides to leave her husband and take her son Gavin with her back to the small town of Haven Bay where she grew up. What she doesn't expect is her old best friend Matt to have grown up to be so hot, Matt has always loved Avery and even though she is now a mother he will do anything for both her and Gavin. There is some emotional scenes were you get real deep into the feelings and when accidents happen and a looming custody battle threatens to break Avery and Matt apart it really does test their feeling for one another. I fell in love with this book and all the characters as soon as I started it and I can't wait for more of the books from Haven Bay.
July 12, 2024
With small town shenanigans and love that knows no bounds, Coming home is more than your average second chance romance. Though the love between Avery and Matt is swoon worthy and hot, Coming Home is not just about the love between two people. It’s a love story between new and old friends, parents and children, neighbors and community. It’s a story of hope and discovery, as Avery and Matt find true love and acceptance for themselves through their relationship with each other, their friends and family and a quirky little town called Haven Bay.
Highly recommend Coming Home. A must-read for anyone who’s a fan of great banter, swoon worthy cinnamon roll men, small town vibes and women who pick themselves up and do the damn thing.
Highly recommend Coming Home. A must-read for anyone who’s a fan of great banter, swoon worthy cinnamon roll men, small town vibes and women who pick themselves up and do the damn thing.
July 10, 2024
This book was too cute! I love a good childhood best friends trope! Plus our fmc’s son is adorable! But let’s be honest Ham was the real mvp of the story 😉
But actually I really enjoyed this book! It had me kicking my feet and giggling! Also as someone who’s from a very small town and moved away and then back home… it felt very comforting and relatable! 🥰
Avery’s growth during the book was incredible to see too! And Matt is the perfect book boyfriend! Also definitely gave me some Gilmore Girls vibes! (Especially the women gossiping on the street! lol)
If you enjoy small town romance, childhood friends to lovers, single parent, he falls first romances then this one’s for you! ❤️
But actually I really enjoyed this book! It had me kicking my feet and giggling! Also as someone who’s from a very small town and moved away and then back home… it felt very comforting and relatable! 🥰
Avery’s growth during the book was incredible to see too! And Matt is the perfect book boyfriend! Also definitely gave me some Gilmore Girls vibes! (Especially the women gossiping on the street! lol)
If you enjoy small town romance, childhood friends to lovers, single parent, he falls first romances then this one’s for you! ❤️
August 4, 2024
Coming Home
Coming Home
This book has a special place in my heart. I loved every minute of it. Matt is the perfect mmc ever. He has a heart of gold. I also have a soft spot for a man who takes on a kid that's not his. 🩵 I love kids in books, and Gavin was no exception. He was the sweetest kid. His little personality was perfect.
Avery. I loved how strong and independent she ended up becoming. When she handed Matt his ass...😂
I hated Mitch, which you're supposed to, I know. But! I'm extremely happy with how things turned out for him at the end of the book.
I loved this book to pieces. It was the most perfect debut novel, and I can't wait to hear more from Katie Beck. 🩵
Coming Home
This book has a special place in my heart. I loved every minute of it. Matt is the perfect mmc ever. He has a heart of gold. I also have a soft spot for a man who takes on a kid that's not his. 🩵 I love kids in books, and Gavin was no exception. He was the sweetest kid. His little personality was perfect.
Avery. I loved how strong and independent she ended up becoming. When she handed Matt his ass...😂
I hated Mitch, which you're supposed to, I know. But! I'm extremely happy with how things turned out for him at the end of the book.
I loved this book to pieces. It was the most perfect debut novel, and I can't wait to hear more from Katie Beck. 🩵
August 28, 2024
Omg omg omg amazing
This story was amazing. I love the small town feel and absolutely love Matt. This story was great right from the start. It was like reading a story about the life I could only dream of for me and my family. I laughed a lot, wanted to punch Mitch in the face a few times and cried multiple times in the last few chapters. And I of course cannot leave out how hot the smexy scenes were.
It is so beautifully written and I cannot wait for Katie Beck's next one.
This is Katie Beck's debut novel and to say I'm obsessed with it doesn't even come close to how much I love it.
This story was amazing. I love the small town feel and absolutely love Matt. This story was great right from the start. It was like reading a story about the life I could only dream of for me and my family. I laughed a lot, wanted to punch Mitch in the face a few times and cried multiple times in the last few chapters. And I of course cannot leave out how hot the smexy scenes were.
It is so beautifully written and I cannot wait for Katie Beck's next one.
This is Katie Beck's debut novel and to say I'm obsessed with it doesn't even come close to how much I love it.
July 8, 2024
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Tropes
-Childhood Best Friends To Lovers
-Single Mom
-Small Town
-Found Family
-It’s Always Been You
-He Falls First
This small town second chance romance is so incredibly cute!! I’m so in love with these characters and the little family they made.
This book is such a great example of, losing yourself in a relationship and finding someone who helps you find yourself again🥹
Matt and Avery are so perfect for each other, and Matt was such an amazing example of “if he wanted to he would”
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Tropes
-Childhood Best Friends To Lovers
-Single Mom
-Small Town
-Found Family
-It’s Always Been You
-He Falls First
This small town second chance romance is so incredibly cute!! I’m so in love with these characters and the little family they made.
This book is such a great example of, losing yourself in a relationship and finding someone who helps you find yourself again🥹
Matt and Avery are so perfect for each other, and Matt was such an amazing example of “if he wanted to he would”
July 11, 2024
Avery returns back to Haven Bay with her son, after a separation from her dick of a husband, but also to support her mum who has fallen ill. Whilst there, she reconnects with her best friend, Matt.
I absolutely gobbled this up!! I just loved Avery and how much of a kind, loving and beautiful person she is. I adored how much she took control of her life and showed her passion of her mum’s bookstore.
Matt. Oh, Matt. What a guy. What a gorgeous, dirty talking, pleasure seeking man. He’s a 12.
I love a best friend to lovers trope, and this absolutely hit the spot.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
July 4, 2024
Although this is a phenomenal debut, it fell a little bit flat for me. My main issue with the book was in Matt’s character. For a lot of the book he was too perfect— so much so that it made me visibly cringe and get annoyed with his character. Furthermore, I can tell that the author is going to do amazing things and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read the e-ARC.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read the e-ARC.
July 12, 2024
Coming Home features the perfect combination of a feel-good story with likeable characters set in a quirky small town. There are humorous scenes that make you laugh out loud, gut wrenching scenes you can picture so vividly, and steamy scenes that make you blush in the best possible way. Can't wait for the next book in the Haven Bay series!
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