What do you think?
Rate this book
Eastbrooke Academy #4
First Loves Are Hard To Forget
After arriving back at school from Johnny’s weekend of no rules, Arrington and Augie have a stronger relationship than ever. The schemers who tried to break them up failed, and Arrington now knows there are some people who’d like to witness their downfall.
But with a full class schedule, dance practice, and other commitments, Arrington has more important things to worry about.
Not only is she helping her friend, Laurent, unwrap a family secret that could shake up the political world, she’s also staring in a music video alongside the flirty Beckham. And when they kiss at sunset and act out the passion of friends turning into lovers—on camera for all to see—things starting feeling a little too real.
If that weren’t enough, her volatile relationship with her former best friend, Branson, is a confusing mess. The walls he’s put up between them seem to be crumbling one minute and built up stronger the next. But things just don’t add up. And she knows if she could just figure out what’s going on with him, it could change everything.
But with a full class schedule, dance practice, and other commitments, Arrington has more important things to worry about.
Not only is she helping her friend, Laurent, unwrap a family secret that could shake up the political world, she’s also staring in a music video alongside the flirty Beckham. And when they kiss at sunset and act out the passion of friends turning into lovers—on camera for all to see—things starting feeling a little too real.
If that weren’t enough, her volatile relationship with her former best friend, Branson, is a confusing mess. The walls he’s put up between them seem to be crumbling one minute and built up stronger the next. But things just don’t add up. And she knows if she could just figure out what’s going on with him, it could change everything.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2024
66 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Dodd
247 books6,735 followersJillian Dodd is a USA Today bestselling mother-daughter duo made up of Jill and Kenzie — two writers, one pen name, and a shared love for fun, binge-worthy YA romance.
With over fifty books and millions of happy readers, their stories range from small-town love in That Boy to glamorous adventures and swoony YA boarding school dramas in The Keatyn Chronicles, London Prep, Spy Girl, and beyond.
Jill lives in sunny Florida with her husband, while Kenzie lives in Scotland with her husband and family. When they’re not writing across time zones, you’ll find them planning their next adventure or dreaming up lovable stories readers can’t put down.
With over fifty books and millions of happy readers, their stories range from small-town love in That Boy to glamorous adventures and swoony YA boarding school dramas in The Keatyn Chronicles, London Prep, Spy Girl, and beyond.
Jill lives in sunny Florida with her husband, while Kenzie lives in Scotland with her husband and family. When they’re not writing across time zones, you’ll find them planning their next adventure or dreaming up lovable stories readers can’t put down.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 8, 2024
This is book 4 of Eastbrooke Academy. I have loved each book in this series, more than the next. It is best to read them in consecutive order. The characters and their stories are starting to unfold. Some of my favorites are Johnny, Beckham, Laurent, and Arrington’s cousin Waverly.
In this book we finally get a glimpse into why Branson has been acting out and pushing his BFF away since the beginning of summer. There is more drama, kisses, love and lust. Rachel and London continue to stir up trouble. I feel that Arrington has so many options in people who love her but we still don’t know who she will end up with in the end. It could still be Augie the Prince, Beckham the flirt, or Branson the BFF. I like Augie and think he is smitten with her but my vote is still for Beckham. I love his fun, flirty, and dirty talk personality.
I hope in future books we find out more about Laurent’s family and I’m excited to see the Montrovia trip and how it unfolds. I wish I had a friend as fabulous and brilliant as Johnny in my life. In the next book or books, I have no doubt Arrington’s personality as the mother-hen or fixer will be more revealed as she helps figure out more about Branson.
In this book we finally get a glimpse into why Branson has been acting out and pushing his BFF away since the beginning of summer. There is more drama, kisses, love and lust. Rachel and London continue to stir up trouble. I feel that Arrington has so many options in people who love her but we still don’t know who she will end up with in the end. It could still be Augie the Prince, Beckham the flirt, or Branson the BFF. I like Augie and think he is smitten with her but my vote is still for Beckham. I love his fun, flirty, and dirty talk personality.
I hope in future books we find out more about Laurent’s family and I’m excited to see the Montrovia trip and how it unfolds. I wish I had a friend as fabulous and brilliant as Johnny in my life. In the next book or books, I have no doubt Arrington’s personality as the mother-hen or fixer will be more revealed as she helps figure out more about Branson.
July 8, 2025
Loved it
I binged the Keatyn Chronicles and then Eastbrooke. Now I am stuck waiting for the next book. Can't believe I'm stuck on a cliffhanger. Can't wait to see how this news changes Lane's life.
I binged the Keatyn Chronicles and then Eastbrooke. Now I am stuck waiting for the next book. Can't believe I'm stuck on a cliffhanger. Can't wait to see how this news changes Lane's life.
September 27, 2025
I’ve read this book before but I guess I just didn’t log it on goodreads. I love how much drama this author can pack into a book, keeps you on the edge of you seat. Only hate that there are soooo many books in each series. But this one is by far my favorite and I love a prep school book
October 31, 2024
I received a copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.
This is book 4 of the Eastbrooke Academy series and I absolutely devoured it, as I’ve done this entire series! Arrington and her crew are just coming back to school after a weekend-long party on Johnny’s yacht. Even though they were on a getaway, the drama is still at an all-time high, with all the angst you can expect from this crew. And the drama doesn’t stop when they return.
Arrington and Augie are happily in love, and the sweetest couple ever. Then there is Beckham, whom I am realllllly beginning to have high hopes for. She can’t seem to ignore the feelings she gets when she and Beckham kiss. The chemistry is truly undeniable and she continues to try to rationalize the feelings.
I loved this fast-paced and all-consuming read. As usual, I am left sitting here grasping at straws as to where Dodd will take this in regards to who Arrington will end up with. I initially was all about Augie and her. Still, something about her relationship with Beckham reminds me of her mother’s relationship with her dad when they were all at that same school together, and I am clinging to that chemistry and connection! I just adore these books and will forever wish they would one day come to the screen. This is the story in which all of us would fawn over when we were the same age as these characters.
As long as Dodd writes these stories, I will continue to read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is book 4 of the Eastbrooke Academy series and I absolutely devoured it, as I’ve done this entire series! Arrington and her crew are just coming back to school after a weekend-long party on Johnny’s yacht. Even though they were on a getaway, the drama is still at an all-time high, with all the angst you can expect from this crew. And the drama doesn’t stop when they return.
Arrington and Augie are happily in love, and the sweetest couple ever. Then there is Beckham, whom I am realllllly beginning to have high hopes for. She can’t seem to ignore the feelings she gets when she and Beckham kiss. The chemistry is truly undeniable and she continues to try to rationalize the feelings.
I loved this fast-paced and all-consuming read. As usual, I am left sitting here grasping at straws as to where Dodd will take this in regards to who Arrington will end up with. I initially was all about Augie and her. Still, something about her relationship with Beckham reminds me of her mother’s relationship with her dad when they were all at that same school together, and I am clinging to that chemistry and connection! I just adore these books and will forever wish they would one day come to the screen. This is the story in which all of us would fawn over when we were the same age as these characters.
As long as Dodd writes these stories, I will continue to read!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 8, 2024
In true Jillian Dodd fashion, First Loves Are Hard To Forget takes us on a whirlwind ride from start to finish. Picking up where book 3 left off, Arrington has to process the situation with her brother and Branson while continuing to work through her complicated friendship (or lack thereof) with her first love.
Arrington shows incredible growth, mentally and emotionally, with her friends, her family, and those around her. She handles new problems with ease, standing up to bullies and the rumor mill and putting her relationships ahead of the drama (mostly).
While I continue to be #TeamBeck (their interactions in this book are top tier and swoonworthy), Arrington’s relationship with Prince Augie continues to evolve, and I love that they have grown to trust each other more and not jump to conclusions when faced with rumor and speculation - they prioritize time with each other and learning more about their relationship, which makes reading about it all the more sweet.
Eastbrooke wouldn’t be complete without Johnny, Laurent, and Waverly in the mix, adding extra excitement to the mix.
While the ending finally gives us some answers we’ve been waiting for, we are left with another famous Dodd cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see how Arrington handles the news she’s just received - until next time…
Arrington shows incredible growth, mentally and emotionally, with her friends, her family, and those around her. She handles new problems with ease, standing up to bullies and the rumor mill and putting her relationships ahead of the drama (mostly).
While I continue to be #TeamBeck (their interactions in this book are top tier and swoonworthy), Arrington’s relationship with Prince Augie continues to evolve, and I love that they have grown to trust each other more and not jump to conclusions when faced with rumor and speculation - they prioritize time with each other and learning more about their relationship, which makes reading about it all the more sweet.
Eastbrooke wouldn’t be complete without Johnny, Laurent, and Waverly in the mix, adding extra excitement to the mix.
While the ending finally gives us some answers we’ve been waiting for, we are left with another famous Dodd cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see how Arrington handles the news she’s just received - until next time…
August 16, 2024
The 4th book of Eastbrooke Academy was the best yet !! Still guessing on who will adult Arrington end up with ?? Augie HRH - so cute and what a gentleman or Beckham her crush who is so much fun and you can tell really likes Arrington. Or finally, her childhood long term best friend Branson. The cliffhanger at the end of what is impacting Branson’s behavior to her and at school really was not what I was expecting. This book gives Gossip Girl vibes but with a heroine who is truly nice and takes the high road even when attacked by mean girls. Glad we have someone that we can root for! Another story arc in the book is Laurent’s story, we find out more about his Mom’s background but do not yet know what is in store for him and his “dad”. And finally, everyone would love to have a friend like Johnny Fab - just wow !! Can’t wait to read the next book !!
August 4, 2024
As a long time reader of the Keatyn Chronicles books, I loved how this book continues so many beloved characters stories as well as continuing to pave a way for the new Eastbrooke generation!
This book was definitely not as hot and heavy as Book 3 in the series, but it hit me in the feels in an even more impactful way. FINALLY learning what made Branson snap in the Hamptons and push Arrington away changed the feelings I had about him previously.
PLUS the question of WHO Arrington will end up with just continues in this book. Will it be Augie, Branson, Beckham, or someone else entirely?
The other side characters stories are really starting to vamp up and I cannot wait to read more about Laurent's family or figure out London and Rachel more in the next book!
This book was definitely not as hot and heavy as Book 3 in the series, but it hit me in the feels in an even more impactful way. FINALLY learning what made Branson snap in the Hamptons and push Arrington away changed the feelings I had about him previously.
PLUS the question of WHO Arrington will end up with just continues in this book. Will it be Augie, Branson, Beckham, or someone else entirely?
The other side characters stories are really starting to vamp up and I cannot wait to read more about Laurent's family or figure out London and Rachel more in the next book!
August 8, 2024
I finished this book a couple of days ago. But I needed time to digest and let it sink in before writing this review. Even after waiting I still don’t know what to say. I absolutely love this series, that hasn’t changed….My obsession may be even more now 🤷🏼♀️ What can I say I can’t get enough. But seriously I need the next one like RIGHT NOW. Drama-Friendship-Suspense-Boarding School-CLIFFHANGER.You will laugh, cry and be on a roller coaster of ups and downs. I absolutely love Jillian Dood. This series just keeps getting better and better. Once I started I literally couldn’t put it down until I finished. This is an absolutely MUST READ!! ❤️
August 8, 2024
I truly love the way Jillian can take me away with her words.
We jump right back in, in book 4. It was so much happening that I got so wrapped up in it. I’m not sure who I’m rooting for now after this book. Changed my thoughts lol but knowing J she won’t let us down at all. I have faith in her to lead this book in the right direction.
I’m praying the wait isn’t to long so we can see who gets picked.
We jump right back in, in book 4. It was so much happening that I got so wrapped up in it. I’m not sure who I’m rooting for now after this book. Changed my thoughts lol but knowing J she won’t let us down at all. I have faith in her to lead this book in the right direction.
I’m praying the wait isn’t to long so we can see who gets picked.
August 16, 2024
First loves are hard to forget
What can I say about this book? Jillian Dodd, you have done it again! You write amazing stories that leave me glued to my kindle until the very last page. I finished this book in two days and I really hope there is another book coming. There are so many flirty scenes between Auggie, Beckham and Branson with this girl and I have been team Beckham from the get go but now I think I am team Branson. The love, the hurts and tough decisions will definitely give you a whirl wind of emotions! I give this book 5 Stars!
What can I say about this book? Jillian Dodd, you have done it again! You write amazing stories that leave me glued to my kindle until the very last page. I finished this book in two days and I really hope there is another book coming. There are so many flirty scenes between Auggie, Beckham and Branson with this girl and I have been team Beckham from the get go but now I think I am team Branson. The love, the hurts and tough decisions will definitely give you a whirl wind of emotions! I give this book 5 Stars!
March 2, 2025
Wow
The mother is extremely selfish. I get that she doesn't want pity but when told that her son is major suffering because of what she has asked him to do and still doesn't get him help. That's just not being a good mom at all. I don't care what is going on in her life his father and mother need to be there for him and neither are. The uncle is not getting him help either. Mental health is important and frankly it's a shame that its being overlooked in this story.
The mother is extremely selfish. I get that she doesn't want pity but when told that her son is major suffering because of what she has asked him to do and still doesn't get him help. That's just not being a good mom at all. I don't care what is going on in her life his father and mother need to be there for him and neither are. The uncle is not getting him help either. Mental health is important and frankly it's a shame that its being overlooked in this story.
August 2, 2024
This is book 4 in Eastbrooke Academy Series and should be read in order to fully enjoy. This book picks up right where book 3 ended. It’s full of laughter and drama. OMG the issue that’s been going on between Arrington and Branson is finally revealed and what a shocker. Can’t wait to see how it’s handled. I need the next book now!!!
August 9, 2024
Oh my! I needed a break from Book 3's zaniness!
BUT we still have to wait for Book 5!! Jillian Dodd is killing me with wondering who Arrington will end up with.
BUT this is the key to this one:
"And she knows if she could just figure out what’s going on with him, it could change everything."
We do finally learn what's been eating at Branson all this time, but OMG - does that mean he's back in the mix?!?
Another romp with her zany friends, royal love, hotness with Beck...I'm still #TeamBeck!
This has been an enjoyable series that keeps me on my toes.
I voluntarily requested and reviewed an advance reader copy.
BUT we still have to wait for Book 5!! Jillian Dodd is killing me with wondering who Arrington will end up with.
BUT this is the key to this one:
"And she knows if she could just figure out what’s going on with him, it could change everything."
We do finally learn what's been eating at Branson all this time, but OMG - does that mean he's back in the mix?!?
Another romp with her zany friends, royal love, hotness with Beck...I'm still #TeamBeck!
This has been an enjoyable series that keeps me on my toes.
I voluntarily requested and reviewed an advance reader copy.
August 9, 2024
The Queen of cliffhangers is back with the one to end all cliffhangers.
This book made me experience the whole spectrum of emotions. I was mad and then sad and then excited.
We get answers in this book….. but also more questions. My imagination is in overdrive wondering what’s next. While I’m team Arrington, what team are you? Branson, Beckham or Augie? Regardless with friends like Johnny and Laurent and her twin brothers and cousins, Arrington will over come whatever obstacles are to come!
Don’t miss out on this book. You won’t be sorry…. And you won’t forget it either!
This book made me experience the whole spectrum of emotions. I was mad and then sad and then excited.
We get answers in this book….. but also more questions. My imagination is in overdrive wondering what’s next. While I’m team Arrington, what team are you? Branson, Beckham or Augie? Regardless with friends like Johnny and Laurent and her twin brothers and cousins, Arrington will over come whatever obstacles are to come!
Don’t miss out on this book. You won’t be sorry…. And you won’t forget it either!
August 7, 2024
As always Jillian never disappoints. The characters are definitely maturing in their journey which is great to see, but I’d love to see where this square goes. One thing Jillian is great at is cliffhangers and leaving me wanting more!!
August 9, 2024
So glad to be back with these characters. I loved the Keatyn Chronicles books so much. I’m so glad we get to see some of those characters again. That’s an add bonus. These books are so fun and I can’t wait to see what happens. I can’t wait for the next book!
August 16, 2024
Eastbrooke Rules
As always a can’t put down book from Jillian Dodd. I have read everything she has written and adore all of them. The angst and wonder in this book kept me guessing all the way thru. And of course now I don’t won’t to wait for another.
As always a can’t put down book from Jillian Dodd. I have read everything she has written and adore all of them. The angst and wonder in this book kept me guessing all the way thru. And of course now I don’t won’t to wait for another.
November 13, 2024
I like the books, but...
The stuff that these kids do is way beyond what a 16-17 year old does. I don't know any teenager who thinks or acts like Johnny or the rest of them. It'd be more believable if we're a college setting.
The stuff that these kids do is way beyond what a 16-17 year old does. I don't know any teenager who thinks or acts like Johnny or the rest of them. It'd be more believable if we're a college setting.
October 10, 2024
Final Rating: 3.5 Stars
December 18, 2024
As per usual it ended on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to find out what happens next to these teens :)
February 3, 2025
All I can say is she better end up with Beckham!!!!
May 16, 2025
I can’t wait for the next one!
I love all of Jillian’s books and seeing characters from the Keatlyn chronicles come back is so fun to see them in a more grown up perspective
I love all of Jillian’s books and seeing characters from the Keatlyn chronicles come back is so fun to see them in a more grown up perspective
August 10, 2025
Just going to leave me like that?!?
I knew I was in for drama, but wow! I can not believe the cliffhanger at the end, and now I have to just wait.... Rude. ❤️
I knew I was in for drama, but wow! I can not believe the cliffhanger at the end, and now I have to just wait.... Rude. ❤️
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews