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Old Favorite Song
Winslow Beach. The small, Georgia town where two high school sweethearts, fell in love, got married, and ultimately watched it all go up in flames. Nick Taylor is used to being in the public eye, especially since he was born into it. The son of a 90's country music icon, Nick has followed in his dad's star-studded shoes, joining the ranks of country music's hottest stars. Sounds like a dream come true, right? Well, if only money and celebrity status could fix broken relationships and bring the girl he writes all his songs about back into his life. Not until then will Nick consider if the fame is worth the price of admission. Spencer Harlowe has been climbing the corporate success ladder ever since moving to New York City seven years ago. As the Director of Publicity for her company's pop music department, she spends most days grateful for all the career highlights she's been able to cross off her bucket list. The only problem is that while helping her clients build the life of their dreams, she's neglected to fight for her own. After one serendipitous summer reunion, true love is closer than ever before. Back in the place where it all began, Nick and Spencer are offered the second chance they never thought was possible.
335 pages, Paperback
Published September 23, 2024
1 person is currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Lainey
2 books9 followersJillian writes contemporary romance full of emotional depth, complex yet relatable characters, and vulnerable spice. Her love of entertainment and pop culture has inspired her lively and dynamic approach to storytelling, which began in high school when she wrote fan fiction about her favorite artists. Jillian lives in Chicagoland where she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new coffee shops and wineries, and traveling to as many new places as she can.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 18, 2024
I was really interested when I first started this book, but I feel like it lost me pretty quickly. I really enjoyed reading about Nick and Spencer’s history as well as their relationships with other side characters, however them together really didn’t give me much. This is a second chance romance, so I was expecting there to be a little more conflict/angst but they practically reconciled immediately and then any issues they had after were solved with a simple conversation. It just felt like a really long story when there wasn’t anything plot wise keeping me going.
September 18, 2024
i first want to thank pen pal pr and jillian lainey for the advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
i went into this book excited for the plot and the tropes. the idea of a popular singer going back home and reconnecting with his ex wife who he never stopped loving charmed me. so it was really disappointing that i found myself not liking it. i believe my chief complaint that really dragged the story down was the fact that there’s a lot of telling instead of showing. lainey really emphasizes the fact that these two characters never stopped loving each other but it isn’t seen in their actions at all. they even sleep together in a barn within days of reuniting which feels far too rushed.
my second point is the fact that there were no meaningful stakes here. spencer quit her job and there was no lingering worry or stress in the later chapters about how that would affect her life. and with spencer and nick reuniting and finding out their marriage never was annulled there were very little stakes there too. i think these two could have benefited far more with some true conflict.
a very small point to wrap it up but nick’s humor flirty fell VERY flat, almost to the point of embarrassment. “well, if somehow other parts of our relationship turn out to not be what we thought they would, at least we know the sex part is an A-plus.” that quote made me wince because i could not imagine saying that to my ex who i still cared about, you know?
but ultimately i did enjoy moments of this book and the UGA mention. go mf dawgs
i went into this book excited for the plot and the tropes. the idea of a popular singer going back home and reconnecting with his ex wife who he never stopped loving charmed me. so it was really disappointing that i found myself not liking it. i believe my chief complaint that really dragged the story down was the fact that there’s a lot of telling instead of showing. lainey really emphasizes the fact that these two characters never stopped loving each other but it isn’t seen in their actions at all. they even sleep together in a barn within days of reuniting which feels far too rushed.
my second point is the fact that there were no meaningful stakes here. spencer quit her job and there was no lingering worry or stress in the later chapters about how that would affect her life. and with spencer and nick reuniting and finding out their marriage never was annulled there were very little stakes there too. i think these two could have benefited far more with some true conflict.
a very small point to wrap it up but nick’s humor flirty fell VERY flat, almost to the point of embarrassment. “well, if somehow other parts of our relationship turn out to not be what we thought they would, at least we know the sex part is an A-plus.” that quote made me wince because i could not imagine saying that to my ex who i still cared about, you know?
but ultimately i did enjoy moments of this book and the UGA mention. go mf dawgs
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2024
Tropes:
- second chance
- small town
- country music star
- "It's always been you"
An adorable debut novel from Jillian. With Nick Taylor's music career on the horizon and unknown stressors coming up in their relationship, Spencer and Nick decide to call their marriage of three years quits. Seven years later, they are back in their hometown at the same time for the first time since their split and old feelings are quick to reappear. As Nick and Spencer catch up on the last seven years of each others lives, old feelings start to resurface and are quickly explored.
I have absolutely no doubt that Spencer and Nick are soulmates. I could really feel the chemistry between them when they were first meeting again, especially that first night in the bar. As the book progressed, I think we were missing some details or some emotion in the really hard hitting scenes but overall, I loved the plot (I am such a sucker for second chance romances).
My only issue came with the writing style as it was not for me, personally. I know some people would love it but some of the conversations felt like they were written like an email instead of true dialogue which resulted in them lacking the emotion we needed.
Overall, I enjoyed Old Favorite Song and I am looking forward to watching Jillian's writing mature and progress throughout her career.
Thank you to PenPal PR for the eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
- second chance
- small town
- country music star
- "It's always been you"
An adorable debut novel from Jillian. With Nick Taylor's music career on the horizon and unknown stressors coming up in their relationship, Spencer and Nick decide to call their marriage of three years quits. Seven years later, they are back in their hometown at the same time for the first time since their split and old feelings are quick to reappear. As Nick and Spencer catch up on the last seven years of each others lives, old feelings start to resurface and are quickly explored.
I have absolutely no doubt that Spencer and Nick are soulmates. I could really feel the chemistry between them when they were first meeting again, especially that first night in the bar. As the book progressed, I think we were missing some details or some emotion in the really hard hitting scenes but overall, I loved the plot (I am such a sucker for second chance romances).
My only issue came with the writing style as it was not for me, personally. I know some people would love it but some of the conversations felt like they were written like an email instead of true dialogue which resulted in them lacking the emotion we needed.
Overall, I enjoyed Old Favorite Song and I am looking forward to watching Jillian's writing mature and progress throughout her career.
Thank you to PenPal PR for the eARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2024
“I guess, as much as I know we need to focus on creating new memories, I can’t help but want to always remember all the good ones we already have.”
This was such a cute second chance romance 🥹
From the moment you meet Nick and seeing the way he was drowning himself in the party life, his nonexistent relationship with his father- you get you know he’s dealing with some heartbreak. He has everything he could want with his music career except the one woman who helped him achieve those dreams. Seeing the amount of sadness he was dealing with made you just want to squeeze him! After meeting Spencer and seeing that she was also dealing with a lot of emotions, you understand her reasoning behind asking for a divorce 7 years prior. She wanted to make sure that neither of them were holding each other back from their hopes and dreams- not realizing that they were better together all along. You could tell Spencer was dealing with a lot too- especially after her father’s passing.
I loved the reunion of these two and the little twist with their divorce papers? I was a giddy mess. Levi knowingly or maybe unknowingly had a great hand at their reunion and it was so sweet to see! 🥹 I loved getting to see them relive their dating and newly married life by visiting Playa Vino, where they had their date back in highschool, to sitting under the magonila tree together and revisiting memories, to yes- even the barn 😉 there was so much emotions/feelings for each other that they had been carrying for years, and I loved getting to see them grow that love once again!
Thank you imPRESS millennial and Jillian for allowing me to read and review! I loved this debut and look forward to more from this author 💖
This was such a cute second chance romance 🥹
From the moment you meet Nick and seeing the way he was drowning himself in the party life, his nonexistent relationship with his father- you get you know he’s dealing with some heartbreak. He has everything he could want with his music career except the one woman who helped him achieve those dreams. Seeing the amount of sadness he was dealing with made you just want to squeeze him! After meeting Spencer and seeing that she was also dealing with a lot of emotions, you understand her reasoning behind asking for a divorce 7 years prior. She wanted to make sure that neither of them were holding each other back from their hopes and dreams- not realizing that they were better together all along. You could tell Spencer was dealing with a lot too- especially after her father’s passing.
I loved the reunion of these two and the little twist with their divorce papers? I was a giddy mess. Levi knowingly or maybe unknowingly had a great hand at their reunion and it was so sweet to see! 🥹 I loved getting to see them relive their dating and newly married life by visiting Playa Vino, where they had their date back in highschool, to sitting under the magonila tree together and revisiting memories, to yes- even the barn 😉 there was so much emotions/feelings for each other that they had been carrying for years, and I loved getting to see them grow that love once again!
Thank you imPRESS millennial and Jillian for allowing me to read and review! I loved this debut and look forward to more from this author 💖
September 22, 2024
there were some good moments reading “old favorite song,” and you could tell jillian lainey has a lot of heart in her storytelling. however, for me, the pacing moved a little too fast. i found myself wishing for more time to really connect with the characters and see their relationships unfold. it felt like everything was laid out too quickly and to the point, without that slow build or tension that keeps you hooked. i love a good slow burn, and this one just didn’t quite deliver on that front.
still, i think jillian lainey has a lot of room to grow as a writer- the concept for this book was great. it just wasn’t for me. i’m looking forward to seeing where she goes next.
thank you to Pen Pal PR for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
still, i think jillian lainey has a lot of room to grow as a writer- the concept for this book was great. it just wasn’t for me. i’m looking forward to seeing where she goes next.
thank you to Pen Pal PR for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2024
E-ARC Review, special thank you to Jillian Laney and Pen Pal PR for an early copy of this book!
Old Favorite Song is a very cute, contemporary romance. The two main characters, Nick and Spencer have a lot of really good banter: it’s playful and fun, but also super romantic. The characters were super easy to love and Nick was an incredible Golden Retriever MMC. He’s written songs about her which is so so so cute, and his actions display his love for Spencer proudly. There were some small plot twists that I wasn’t expecting, but they were such cute additions to Spencer and Nick’s love story. I really enjoyed this book all around, and would recommend it as a cute summer read!
Old Favorite Song is a very cute, contemporary romance. The two main characters, Nick and Spencer have a lot of really good banter: it’s playful and fun, but also super romantic. The characters were super easy to love and Nick was an incredible Golden Retriever MMC. He’s written songs about her which is so so so cute, and his actions display his love for Spencer proudly. There were some small plot twists that I wasn’t expecting, but they were such cute additions to Spencer and Nick’s love story. I really enjoyed this book all around, and would recommend it as a cute summer read!
September 17, 2024
thank you to penpal pr and jillian lainey for the arc!
second chance will always get me. and when there’s a down horrendously mmc involved? sign me up! i really liked nick and spencer’s story, i liked that even though they both had a lot of fear (and trauma let’s be real) that they really tried to make things work. a tad insta-love, but they were together since they were 17 so i’ll let it slide. overall a cute little romance! wish there was more emma and owen tho i like them a lot too
second chance will always get me. and when there’s a down horrendously mmc involved? sign me up! i really liked nick and spencer’s story, i liked that even though they both had a lot of fear (and trauma let’s be real) that they really tried to make things work. a tad insta-love, but they were together since they were 17 so i’ll let it slide. overall a cute little romance! wish there was more emma and owen tho i like them a lot too
April 12, 2024
Nick & Spencer are true soulmates that deserved their 2nd chance. This is such a good lighter summer read for fans of country music and Nicholas Sparks type of love! I loved Jillian’s first book and can’t wait to read more from her.
September 15, 2024
Thank you so much Jillian Lainey and Pen Pal PR for sending me the eARC of Old Favorite Song!!! 🤩🫶
This was such a cute summer read!! 🌊🌞 The book releases on 9/23/24 and you should definitely add it to your TBR!! 📖
Jillian Lainey describes the book as One Tree Hill meets Nashville, country music star, second chance romance, small coastal town+ music city and I couldn’t agree more!! 😍
Nick and Spencer originally met,fell in love and got married in the small Georgia town of Winslow Beach then ended up going separate ways… Nick went off to Nashville to become a country music star 🤠🎤while Spencer headed off to the big apple and became the Director or publicity for her company 🗽🍎🚕
Nick and Spencer unexpectedly both find their way back to Winslow beach 7 years later and that’s where you’ll have to read and find out what happens next!!! 😏
If you are a big One Tree Hill fan like me you will absolutely loveeeee chapter 7 and feel like you are back in time with Hailey and Nathan!!
Also look out for Chapter 17 if you watched Hart of Dixie because this is giving major Wade and Zoe vibes 😍👏🏼❤️
This was such a cute summer read!! 🌊🌞 The book releases on 9/23/24 and you should definitely add it to your TBR!! 📖
Jillian Lainey describes the book as One Tree Hill meets Nashville, country music star, second chance romance, small coastal town+ music city and I couldn’t agree more!! 😍
Nick and Spencer originally met,fell in love and got married in the small Georgia town of Winslow Beach then ended up going separate ways… Nick went off to Nashville to become a country music star 🤠🎤while Spencer headed off to the big apple and became the Director or publicity for her company 🗽🍎🚕
Nick and Spencer unexpectedly both find their way back to Winslow beach 7 years later and that’s where you’ll have to read and find out what happens next!!! 😏
If you are a big One Tree Hill fan like me you will absolutely loveeeee chapter 7 and feel like you are back in time with Hailey and Nathan!!
Also look out for Chapter 17 if you watched Hart of Dixie because this is giving major Wade and Zoe vibes 😍👏🏼❤️
September 15, 2024
ARC review I like this book if you are looking for a second chance romance, small town romance, one of us is famous tropes then you would like this book. Check your trigger warnings before you read this book grief, alcoholism is discussed in this book as well.
I like Nick and Spencer the story starts off as Nick a country singer working in Nashville has been dealing with some issues and is spiraling he has been in the tabloids and he is meeting with his record label to talk about his issues, he finds out his dad is in the hospital so he goes to his hometown for a couple of weeks to decompress and try and write new music. His ex wife Spencer is coming back home to see her sister and mom for her sister’s 30th birthday. Spencer works for a public relations company in New York. She has been feeling in a rut and she is not sure what to do.
Nick and Spencer run into each other when they are back in their hometown and they talk things out and apologize for hurting each other and the story goes from there.
I like Nick and Spencer the story starts off as Nick a country singer working in Nashville has been dealing with some issues and is spiraling he has been in the tabloids and he is meeting with his record label to talk about his issues, he finds out his dad is in the hospital so he goes to his hometown for a couple of weeks to decompress and try and write new music. His ex wife Spencer is coming back home to see her sister and mom for her sister’s 30th birthday. Spencer works for a public relations company in New York. She has been feeling in a rut and she is not sure what to do.
Nick and Spencer run into each other when they are back in their hometown and they talk things out and apologize for hurting each other and the story goes from there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2025
A cozy beach town combined with Music City was such a lovely read. A heartwarming second chance romance. I absolutely adored this book. It was good to find out why their love story ultimately fell apart and for me it was easy to understand why it was so quick for them to give it a second chance. I could feel the heartbreak of having to decide to live ones dreams over following your soulmate and now they get to start their story again with no more "what ifs"
Winslow Beach seems like an absolute dream small town to escape to from the hectic life of being a famous country star. I would've liked to know more about the songs and the history of Nick, Spencer and their family relationships. I feel like we got the highlight reel of some of the story and needed to go deeper in other parts. I'm excited to see more from Jillian.
Thanks PenPalPR for sending me an ARC to be able to read and review early.
Winslow Beach seems like an absolute dream small town to escape to from the hectic life of being a famous country star. I would've liked to know more about the songs and the history of Nick, Spencer and their family relationships. I feel like we got the highlight reel of some of the story and needed to go deeper in other parts. I'm excited to see more from Jillian.
Thanks PenPalPR for sending me an ARC to be able to read and review early.
September 23, 2024
🎶 Old Favourite Song 🎶
Rate : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre : Contemporary Romance
Author : Jillian Lainey
Thank you so much to Pen Pal PR for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Adorable, sweet, cosy and an all round enjoyable read, Old Favourite Song was a lovely read from start to finish. With a beautiful setting of a coastal small town, loveable characters and a storyline to go with it - I found myself reading a book that I quite enjoyed.
Old Favourite Song is a debut novel that follows Nick Taylor - a famous country singer pouring his heart into his music - and his ex - wife Spencer - a corporate manager wanting more for herself than she could imagine. After having a reunion in their small town of Winslow Beach, could they have the second chance they’re hoping for? Or will their relationship be number two in their priorities yet again?
As most of you know, I’m a sucker for small town romances and this is no exception! The little moments between the characters are to die for and really make the book, their chemistry is just so good too!
What didn’t hit for me was how everything was more or less brushed over whenever conflict arises. Not much tension happened - especially for an ex - wife/ex - husband reuniting and trying to rekindle their relationship. Communication was amazing, yes, but they hardly had any proper discussion whenever soemthing bad happened. It just didn’t feel like the characters had any substance.
However, Jillian Lainey has created an adorable book boyfriend through Nick Taylor. His memory of what Spencer adores and likes even after seven years is just utterly adorable and makes him such a great book boyfriend!
If you adore second chance, small town romances this is the book for you! I’m so excited to see what’s next in store for this series!!
CW/TW : Divorce, loss of parents, sexual content, alcohol
Rate : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre : Contemporary Romance
Author : Jillian Lainey
Thank you so much to Pen Pal PR for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Adorable, sweet, cosy and an all round enjoyable read, Old Favourite Song was a lovely read from start to finish. With a beautiful setting of a coastal small town, loveable characters and a storyline to go with it - I found myself reading a book that I quite enjoyed.
Old Favourite Song is a debut novel that follows Nick Taylor - a famous country singer pouring his heart into his music - and his ex - wife Spencer - a corporate manager wanting more for herself than she could imagine. After having a reunion in their small town of Winslow Beach, could they have the second chance they’re hoping for? Or will their relationship be number two in their priorities yet again?
As most of you know, I’m a sucker for small town romances and this is no exception! The little moments between the characters are to die for and really make the book, their chemistry is just so good too!
What didn’t hit for me was how everything was more or less brushed over whenever conflict arises. Not much tension happened - especially for an ex - wife/ex - husband reuniting and trying to rekindle their relationship. Communication was amazing, yes, but they hardly had any proper discussion whenever soemthing bad happened. It just didn’t feel like the characters had any substance.
However, Jillian Lainey has created an adorable book boyfriend through Nick Taylor. His memory of what Spencer adores and likes even after seven years is just utterly adorable and makes him such a great book boyfriend!
If you adore second chance, small town romances this is the book for you! I’m so excited to see what’s next in store for this series!!
CW/TW : Divorce, loss of parents, sexual content, alcohol
September 16, 2024
“Your a risk worth faking, a love worth making”
Going into this book, I will admit I was nervous about it because I’m not always a fan of second chance romances in the way it was portrayed in the description. But once I got into it, i realized how cute and unput-down-able Jillian Lainey had made this concept! Spencer and Nick had great chemistry and I thought the small plot twists throughout the story were so fun and interesting!
Over all I would say I’d rate this 3.5 stars (but goodreads only does full star ratings and it definitely doesn’t deserve only 3 stars)! It was a very adorable beach read style book that still had lots of depth and heart! I found myself laughing, tearing up, and kicking my feet giggling like a little girl! As a hallmark fan I’d say that this feels like my ideal type of hallmark-esque feel!
Now to point out my reason for my rating: I did go back and forth on a decision for rating the way I did but I felt like this book was truly a cute story and a great concept that i absolutely loved. Although, I did at times feel that the story was moving at an odd pace or that problems were be resolved too fast. I could have used more angst and showing Spencer and Nick going through their feelings more. However, I love the healthiness of how they handled a lot of their struggles!
I cannot wait to see what other books Jillian puts out cause I will definitely be picking them up! I throughly enjoyed this book and I will be recommending it to many of my friends!
Also I’d like to thank Pen-Pal PR for allowing me a special first look at this book! This was my first ever arc and I will forever be grateful to be able to do a review of this book!
Going into this book, I will admit I was nervous about it because I’m not always a fan of second chance romances in the way it was portrayed in the description. But once I got into it, i realized how cute and unput-down-able Jillian Lainey had made this concept! Spencer and Nick had great chemistry and I thought the small plot twists throughout the story were so fun and interesting!
Over all I would say I’d rate this 3.5 stars (but goodreads only does full star ratings and it definitely doesn’t deserve only 3 stars)! It was a very adorable beach read style book that still had lots of depth and heart! I found myself laughing, tearing up, and kicking my feet giggling like a little girl! As a hallmark fan I’d say that this feels like my ideal type of hallmark-esque feel!
Now to point out my reason for my rating: I did go back and forth on a decision for rating the way I did but I felt like this book was truly a cute story and a great concept that i absolutely loved. Although, I did at times feel that the story was moving at an odd pace or that problems were be resolved too fast. I could have used more angst and showing Spencer and Nick going through their feelings more. However, I love the healthiness of how they handled a lot of their struggles!
I cannot wait to see what other books Jillian puts out cause I will definitely be picking them up! I throughly enjoyed this book and I will be recommending it to many of my friends!
Also I’d like to thank Pen-Pal PR for allowing me a special first look at this book! This was my first ever arc and I will forever be grateful to be able to do a review of this book!
September 23, 2024
This was a cute read!
I love a second-chance romance, but this did fall a little flat for me. I would have liked there to be more conflict around reconciling the reasons they got divorced in the first place.
The setting really worked for me! I love the juxtaposition of small-town and city life. I liked that Spencer quit her job for reasons that had nothing to do with Nick. The Hallmark movie trope of someone quitting their job and following the other bugs me, but the author found an interesting way to sidestep it.
I also thought Spencer came off as emotionally immature in the way she reacted to things. It felt like a lot of their conflict was centered around her overreacting to things,
That said, I still enjoyed their story, and if you like a low-stakes romance without much conflict, this might be the perfect read for you!
Thanks to the author and Pen Pal PR for an advanced copy of this book!
I love a second-chance romance, but this did fall a little flat for me. I would have liked there to be more conflict around reconciling the reasons they got divorced in the first place.
The setting really worked for me! I love the juxtaposition of small-town and city life. I liked that Spencer quit her job for reasons that had nothing to do with Nick. The Hallmark movie trope of someone quitting their job and following the other bugs me, but the author found an interesting way to sidestep it.
I also thought Spencer came off as emotionally immature in the way she reacted to things. It felt like a lot of their conflict was centered around her overreacting to things,
That said, I still enjoyed their story, and if you like a low-stakes romance without much conflict, this might be the perfect read for you!
Thanks to the author and Pen Pal PR for an advanced copy of this book!
September 12, 2024
“Man, I don't know how she does it, but even with red, puffy eyes, Spencer is still the most beautiful woman I've ever laid eyes on. And seeing her here made me instantly feel seventeen all over again.”
A promising concept, but lacked in execution.
What I liked:
This was a cute story. I really enjoyed the small town setting.
I loved Spencer and Emma’s relationship, and Nick and Owen’s relationship. Nick’s relationship with Spencer’s family was so sweet.
What didn’t work for me:
It seemed like a lot of the tough/hard conversations that I crave in a second chance romance were glossed over. Nick and Spencer did communicate, but it seemed like everything was always either resolved super quickly or just blew over like nothing. We hear about them going to therapy, but we don’t get to see that work on the page. I have a hard time in believing in a couple’s second chance, if they don’t do the work to really get there.
There were a couple of points where Nick seemed to railroad Spencer a bit. At one point in an argument where she asks for space and he keeps telling her they should talk rubbed me the wrong way. If she asks for space, give her space.
I didn’t feel a ton of chemistry between Spencer and Nick. I wanted more longing, more pining…just more.
Thank you to PenPalPR for this e-arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A promising concept, but lacked in execution.
What I liked:
This was a cute story. I really enjoyed the small town setting.
I loved Spencer and Emma’s relationship, and Nick and Owen’s relationship. Nick’s relationship with Spencer’s family was so sweet.
What didn’t work for me:
It seemed like a lot of the tough/hard conversations that I crave in a second chance romance were glossed over. Nick and Spencer did communicate, but it seemed like everything was always either resolved super quickly or just blew over like nothing. We hear about them going to therapy, but we don’t get to see that work on the page. I have a hard time in believing in a couple’s second chance, if they don’t do the work to really get there.
There were a couple of points where Nick seemed to railroad Spencer a bit. At one point in an argument where she asks for space and he keeps telling her they should talk rubbed me the wrong way. If she asks for space, give her space.
I didn’t feel a ton of chemistry between Spencer and Nick. I wanted more longing, more pining…just more.
Thank you to PenPalPR for this e-arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 14, 2024
For a debut novel, Jillian Lainey was able to pull the readers in with the story of a second chance romance between a PR Executive and Country Music Star. Spencer and Nick married in the early 20’s with a love and friendship that ran deep. However, when Spencer saw that Nick’s career was going to blast off, she backed away and separated from the marriage. Nick being a heartbroken singer and songwriter wrote and made music hits based on their love story. Over 7 years, each lived their separate lives only to rekindle (rather quickly) their romance when being back in their same home town. There is a bit of a twist, but no need to spoil that. Their love story was cute and it was clear they were soulmates, but it was very surface level.
I wish the author would have paid a little more attention to a couple tough topics v. jumping from one to another. The characters seemed accepting of the situation almost immediately without conflict that is typical of a second chance romance. Marriage isn’t easy and it takes work. I can’t imagine not covering the lingering topics that could cause mistrust between a couple. I wish we could have seen deeper into the lengths they went to accept the time apart and their traumas.
Thank you PenPal PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I wish the author would have paid a little more attention to a couple tough topics v. jumping from one to another. The characters seemed accepting of the situation almost immediately without conflict that is typical of a second chance romance. Marriage isn’t easy and it takes work. I can’t imagine not covering the lingering topics that could cause mistrust between a couple. I wish we could have seen deeper into the lengths they went to accept the time apart and their traumas.
Thank you PenPal PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 23, 2024
Thank you to Pen Pal PR and Jillian Lainey for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed the premise of this book, and I LIKED the characters! And I think Jillian Lainey is a great writer! I would love to read more of her work in the future! This book would be perfect for people who love sweet, insta-love romances with HEA :)
But I struggled with a couple things. I think there was not enough turmoil in the "second chance" between Nick and Spencer. They literally saw each other and were instantly back in love again. I am not the biggest fan of second chance tropes, but I felt like there needed to be some push back about just falling right back into it. They broke up for a reason, right??
I also struggled a little bit with the back and forth between the characters. If every character sounds like a therapist, it doesn't come off as realistic to me. People are not always going to say the perfect and right thing, they sometimes say stupid stuff, and the don't always have the best empathy and perspective. Every single character in this book was essentially a therapist's dream - they only said the perfect things every time. It created no friction, no push back, no drama, nothing to add any stakes to the plot. This just felt too easy for me.
I enjoyed the premise of this book, and I LIKED the characters! And I think Jillian Lainey is a great writer! I would love to read more of her work in the future! This book would be perfect for people who love sweet, insta-love romances with HEA :)
But I struggled with a couple things. I think there was not enough turmoil in the "second chance" between Nick and Spencer. They literally saw each other and were instantly back in love again. I am not the biggest fan of second chance tropes, but I felt like there needed to be some push back about just falling right back into it. They broke up for a reason, right??
I also struggled a little bit with the back and forth between the characters. If every character sounds like a therapist, it doesn't come off as realistic to me. People are not always going to say the perfect and right thing, they sometimes say stupid stuff, and the don't always have the best empathy and perspective. Every single character in this book was essentially a therapist's dream - they only said the perfect things every time. It created no friction, no push back, no drama, nothing to add any stakes to the plot. This just felt too easy for me.
April 14, 2024
✨️Nick Taylor has been used to being the public eye since he was born into it. He is the son of a 90s country music icon, and Nick has followed his dad's footsteps by joining the country music ranks. Could money and celeb status fix his broken relationship and bring back the girl he dedicates his songs to? Nick will soon decide if fame is worth the price of admission.
✨️Spencer Harlowe has continued to climb the corporate ladder since moving to NYC. She is Director of Publicity for her company's music department. She spends most of her days helping build her clients' dreams but neglects to fight her own.
✨️After one amazing summer reunion, true love is closer than ever before. And back in the place, Spencer and Nick began. They are now offered a second chance they never saw coming!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story between Nick and Spencer and the writing style! If you love country music, second chance love stories, humorous banter, while still addressing serious topics, this book is for you! 🎸
✨️Thank you to @impressmillennial for the gifted copy of this book!
✨️Spencer Harlowe has continued to climb the corporate ladder since moving to NYC. She is Director of Publicity for her company's music department. She spends most of her days helping build her clients' dreams but neglects to fight her own.
✨️After one amazing summer reunion, true love is closer than ever before. And back in the place, Spencer and Nick began. They are now offered a second chance they never saw coming!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story between Nick and Spencer and the writing style! If you love country music, second chance love stories, humorous banter, while still addressing serious topics, this book is for you! 🎸
✨️Thank you to @impressmillennial for the gifted copy of this book!
September 15, 2024
After seven years of divorce Spencer & Nick find themselves both back in their small home town of Winslow Beach. Nick is a bestselling country music singer & Spencer is looking to find herself as her job is draining her. When they meet back up sparks fly.. but will they be able to reconnect or will they have to go separate ways yet again?
As a girl whose playlists consist of 90% country music it was a no brainer when this popped up! I was absolutely over the moon with the cover & the title of the book!
This book was just perfection. I related so much to both of the characters I could feel every emotion. It was so well written and constructed. I absolutely need more of Winslow Beach!
Old Favorite Song is the perfect book to read. It has everything you are looking for in a romantic novel. This was my first book by @jillian.lainey and my first second chance romance! It definitely will not be my last!
Thank you so much to the author & @penpalpr for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
As a girl whose playlists consist of 90% country music it was a no brainer when this popped up! I was absolutely over the moon with the cover & the title of the book!
This book was just perfection. I related so much to both of the characters I could feel every emotion. It was so well written and constructed. I absolutely need more of Winslow Beach!
Old Favorite Song is the perfect book to read. It has everything you are looking for in a romantic novel. This was my first book by @jillian.lainey and my first second chance romance! It definitely will not be my last!
Thank you so much to the author & @penpalpr for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!
September 23, 2024
Well, well well, I think that I need to change my toon about second chance romances. Spencer and Nick were absolutely adorable! Something that always makes me think that the second chance trope is not fun is because it always seems like the people fall out love and then hate each other and then boom it’s love again. This book does not do that at all! Nick is still head over heels in love with Spencer and I enjoyed reading about their love growing even more. I loved that her dad meddled and that they could come out the other side of everything happier and healthier in their marriage. I loved seeing Spencer and Emma interacting. I loved seeing Nicks relationship with Spencer’s family. This was just a super sweet, wholesome book that made me feel like a warm hug wrapped in a cozy blanket with all my favorite people combined.
Thank you to Pen Pal PR and Miss Jillian for sending me an ARC of this super sweet book. I really enjoyed reading about Nick and Spencer and their love!
Thank you to Pen Pal PR and Miss Jillian for sending me an ARC of this super sweet book. I really enjoyed reading about Nick and Spencer and their love!
September 23, 2024
Thank you to Pen Pal PR and Jillian Lainey for an e-ARC of this book!
I really enjoyed *Old Favorite Song*! One of the highlights for me was how, despite Nick and Spencer seeming to pick up their marriage seamlessly after reconnecting, the book didn’t shy away from showing the hardships they had to face before their vow renewal ceremony. It made their journey feel more authentic and grounded.
I also really appreciated the way the situation with Nick and his dad wrapped up. The closure between them was satisfying and felt well-earned.
On a more personal note, I could really relate to Spencer’s emotions around losing her dad and wishing he could have been there for her big day, especially the second time around. That part hit home for me and added another layer of emotional depth to the story. Overall, it was a heartfelt read with just the right amount of challenge and resolution!
I really enjoyed *Old Favorite Song*! One of the highlights for me was how, despite Nick and Spencer seeming to pick up their marriage seamlessly after reconnecting, the book didn’t shy away from showing the hardships they had to face before their vow renewal ceremony. It made their journey feel more authentic and grounded.
I also really appreciated the way the situation with Nick and his dad wrapped up. The closure between them was satisfying and felt well-earned.
On a more personal note, I could really relate to Spencer’s emotions around losing her dad and wishing he could have been there for her big day, especially the second time around. That part hit home for me and added another layer of emotional depth to the story. Overall, it was a heartfelt read with just the right amount of challenge and resolution!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2024
I really enjoyed the concept of this book as the plot sounded right up my alley. However, the whole thing just felt a little too good to be true. Being apart for seven years and then just magically getting back together with virtually no problems? I just can't get behind that as being realistic. I'm all for second chance romances but I feel like in reality those couples do end up having growing pains and problems and don't just jump back into things like nothing ever went wrong. I appreciate them going to therapy but I feel like all of those types of problems were completely glossed over. Any time either one of them messed up or they discovered something that should have been a big deal, they just magically forgived each other immediately which just didn't really make sense to me. Unfortunately, I think this one just missed the mark.
March 13, 2024
Old Favorite Song is One Tree Hill meets Nashville meets a Nicholas Sparks novel.
Nick and Spencer are the definition of soulmates who fall in love all over again in the small beach town they grew up in after being divorced for seven years.
Nick is just swoon-worthy and gives off Chad Michael Murray boy next door meets bad boy vibes who is now a famous country star, while Spencer is this sweet girl next door he can’t resist—even after all this time apart.
By the end, you’ll have no choice but to be rooting for this couple to survive the fire they set years ago.
You’ll want to pick this one up if you love reading:
• Second-chance romance
• Small town beach vibes
• Music themes
• Soulmates
• Forced proximity
Nick and Spencer are the definition of soulmates who fall in love all over again in the small beach town they grew up in after being divorced for seven years.
Nick is just swoon-worthy and gives off Chad Michael Murray boy next door meets bad boy vibes who is now a famous country star, while Spencer is this sweet girl next door he can’t resist—even after all this time apart.
By the end, you’ll have no choice but to be rooting for this couple to survive the fire they set years ago.
You’ll want to pick this one up if you love reading:
• Second-chance romance
• Small town beach vibes
• Music themes
• Soulmates
• Forced proximity
September 22, 2024
I got an ARC of this book, and to be honest second chance romance stories are not always my favorite because normally that includes the stupid troupe of miscommunication. I hate that instead of adults being able to talk it out they just walk away. Spencer didn’t want to hold Nick back and I feel like you gotta give her some understanding there, she loved Nick so much she didn’t want he to regret her. I enjoyed this cute second chance romance. There was a lot of healing and romance and forgiving and just honest love in this story. I liked Nick’s character I think his growth in the story was something I needed and enjoyed reading. Spencer was dealing with so much and this book was just what I needed to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2024
A debut romance for Ms. Laney has the backdrop of music city and beach locals. A second chance for Spencer and Nick makes for a fun summer read.
Nick is in the middle of a PR crisis, has been drinking too much, and is currently a country singer with no new material. A trip to his beach house is the ticket for a reset.
Spencer has left her job in NYC and is also heading home for a reset. After avoiding her ex for seven years, she runs into him early in her trip.
I like that there is no major drama or angst, the banter is fun, and their fears are real. For a first book, the author has done a great job, and I look forward to more from her.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Nick is in the middle of a PR crisis, has been drinking too much, and is currently a country singer with no new material. A trip to his beach house is the ticket for a reset.
Spencer has left her job in NYC and is also heading home for a reset. After avoiding her ex for seven years, she runs into him early in her trip.
I like that there is no major drama or angst, the banter is fun, and their fears are real. For a first book, the author has done a great job, and I look forward to more from her.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
April 19, 2024
I had the absolute pleasure of reading an early copy of this book and knew how amazing it would be all polished up. It did not disappoint! This sweet story takes you on a JOURNEY that is both heartbreaking and healing.
Nick Taylor, a country music star, never forgot the woman who stole his heart when they were younger. But he hasn't seen Spencer for a while, and she's been busy, too. But after reuniting, the sparks between these two are palpable!
Jillian is so great at writing second-chance romance with so many emotions while also delivering the swoony, spicy moments we love. So impressed by this debut. Brava!
Nick Taylor, a country music star, never forgot the woman who stole his heart when they were younger. But he hasn't seen Spencer for a while, and she's been busy, too. But after reuniting, the sparks between these two are palpable!
Jillian is so great at writing second-chance romance with so many emotions while also delivering the swoony, spicy moments we love. So impressed by this debut. Brava!
September 11, 2024
Everyone deserves a second chance right? Especially when it’s an epic kind of love like Nick and Spencer’s! The chemistry between these two is just beyond, such an emotional journey of discovering love lost, themselves and their future to a HEA. Well written, the characters really do come off the page, with great supporting characters too, would love to read more of Emma (Spencer’s sister) and Owen (Nick’s best friend). Really enjoyable read and had me swooning over Nick more than a few times!
A new author for me and one that I’ll return to again!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
A new author for me and one that I’ll return to again!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 22, 2024
I was super excited to read this book from reading the description. I did enjoy most of the book, but I wish there was more showing than telling what happened in the book. I would have loved some flashback scenes of when they were younger. I did love that it was dual POV and I loved the relationship that Spencer had with her sister. I guess I was hoping for a little more drama since they were separated for 7 years. I didn’t see too much struggle. I feel even when they had an argument it was all so polite. And I just wanted a bit more.
I did receive this book as an ARC from Pen pal pr, and I want to say thank you for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
I did receive this book as an ARC from Pen pal pr, and I want to say thank you for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 9, 2024
3.5 stars
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙨 ♡
•one tequila shot too many 🤣
•sweet home Alabama vibes
•small beach town
•a rundown Chevy pickup
•pier slow dancing
•childhood loves
•the barn
•beach bonfire
•second chance romance
•song writing ✍️
•happy for now
“𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙩𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙄𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮, 𝙮𝙚𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨. 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩— 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙡𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙨.“
This is a cute, second chance romance by debut author Jillian Lainey. There is so much nostalgia in this story and I enjoyed the reconnection between Nick and Spencer. Their trip down memory lane was special and unique so it’ll be interesting to see where they go from here as they navigate the country music world together.
Content: mild open door, some language
Thank you to the author and Impress Millennial for a gifted copy. My thoughts are my own.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙂𝙤𝙤𝙙𝙨 ♡
•one tequila shot too many 🤣
•sweet home Alabama vibes
•small beach town
•a rundown Chevy pickup
•pier slow dancing
•childhood loves
•the barn
•beach bonfire
•second chance romance
•song writing ✍️
•happy for now
“𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙩𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙄𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮, 𝙮𝙚𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙙 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨. 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩— 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙡𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙨.“
This is a cute, second chance romance by debut author Jillian Lainey. There is so much nostalgia in this story and I enjoyed the reconnection between Nick and Spencer. Their trip down memory lane was special and unique so it’ll be interesting to see where they go from here as they navigate the country music world together.
Content: mild open door, some language
Thank you to the author and Impress Millennial for a gifted copy. My thoughts are my own.
September 22, 2024
I was really excited to read this book because the plot and tropes looked very promising, but once I started reading it I found myself not invested nor interested in the story. There was a lot said but not a lot happened. There was not really anything happening that kept me hooked. For a slow burn their romance was a bit quick and straightforward and there just wasn’t a lot of the burning tension that I love in a slow burn.
The writing was good and I do think it’s a good story, but it unfortunately it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you Pen Pal PR for the arc in exchange for a honest review.
The writing was good and I do think it’s a good story, but it unfortunately it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you Pen Pal PR for the arc in exchange for a honest review.
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