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Seddledowne #3
All To Pieces
A high school sweethearts, second chance, football romance from Amazon bestselling author Susan Henshaw.
Millions watch him play. Except the one who matters most.
Blue
I made the worst mistake of my life when I let my dad move me across the country after my sophomore year of high school.
Had my football career taken off? Yes.
But I’d lost, the best thing that ever happened to me because of it.
Anna Dupree was the only girl who ever loved me as a person and not for my athletic talent.
Who cares if I can run the forty in 4.2 seconds, or if beautiful women sneak into my hotel room at away games?
Without Anna, I’m a man slogging through the desert, desperate for a drink.
Anna
My gorgeous ex wasn’t supposed to know I came to his game.
But when my meddling, country pop-star uncle calls me to the fifty-yard line to perform a pre-game duet in front of one hundred thousand screaming fans, that secret's shot to pieces.
Somehow, I make it through the song. All I have to do is get off this field and I’m outta here. Forget the game.
But then I look up and who happens to be jogging toward me in his tight football pants, wearing that adorable, cocky grin I fell in love with all those years ago?
Yeah, the one guy I’ve spent the last four years trying to forget.
My uncle is so dead when we get off this field.
All To Pieces is book three in the interconnected Seddledowne Series and can be read as a standalone.
Millions watch him play. Except the one who matters most.
Blue
I made the worst mistake of my life when I let my dad move me across the country after my sophomore year of high school.
Had my football career taken off? Yes.
But I’d lost, the best thing that ever happened to me because of it.
Anna Dupree was the only girl who ever loved me as a person and not for my athletic talent.
Who cares if I can run the forty in 4.2 seconds, or if beautiful women sneak into my hotel room at away games?
Without Anna, I’m a man slogging through the desert, desperate for a drink.
Anna
My gorgeous ex wasn’t supposed to know I came to his game.
But when my meddling, country pop-star uncle calls me to the fifty-yard line to perform a pre-game duet in front of one hundred thousand screaming fans, that secret's shot to pieces.
Somehow, I make it through the song. All I have to do is get off this field and I’m outta here. Forget the game.
But then I look up and who happens to be jogging toward me in his tight football pants, wearing that adorable, cocky grin I fell in love with all those years ago?
Yeah, the one guy I’ve spent the last four years trying to forget.
My uncle is so dead when we get off this field.
All To Pieces is book three in the interconnected Seddledowne Series and can be read as a standalone.
326 pages, Paperback
Published August 22, 2024
1086 people are currently reading
1400 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
December 26, 2025
့းိ preread ——— i lowk am skipping the second book because after everything that happened with christy and holden in the first book i don’t even want to hear their story ngl😭😭
🎀tropes:
「 my thoughts 」
4⭐️ so goodddd!! i loved how they involved all the characters from previous books, and the texts on the gc in the book were so funny genuinely i would love to be a part of their family lol. i also loved how protective the uncles were of anna. also ngl the usage of slang in this book made me cringe and want to cry😭😂 and i’m so glad everything worked out and they all got what they wanted bc i didn’t want either of them to give up their dream
。၄၃ characters ၄၃ 。
॥ blue॥ : OKAY THE FORGETTING EVERYTHING WAS GENIUS actually it was so adorable when he first saw her after he forgot everything, and how he slowly put all the pieces together. honestly i was so close to reaching through the book and slapping him when he believed his dad and lacy or whatever her name was over anna.
॥ anna॥ : i loved how she finally built down her walls and was able to let blue back in. i loved their sweater exchange thing, and the fact that she got to wear his hoodie😭🙏🩷(i wish), and that he still wore the necklace she got for him
॥ jonah॥ : good for him for realizing how anna still loved blue and letting her go, and even gave her advice that changed everything lol. slightly odd tho that he went and got with anna’s best friend but what do i know
॥ brooklyn॥ : i loved her personality and the texts she sent as anna to blue. okay idk if it’s just me but how was everyone so okay with her secretly dating anna’s ex??
॥ sophie ॥ : obviously she wasn’t technically in the book but i still loved how she was mentioned and how they planned to name lemon’s daughter after her
ଽ favorite quotes
“Man, I loved this girl. With my entire heart. There wasn't a single thing about her I didn't love. Her goodness, her sense of humor, her beauty, how she’d befriend anyone, especially someone who was friendless. How hard she loved me.”
“Cooper puffed his chest, preening. “Does she talk about me in her sleep?”
Brooklyn's expression was blank. “No. Why would she talk about you? You have no rizz.”
Cooper deflated.” ->😭😂
“”Your name is Blue? Or is that a nickname?” The nurse read from the computer screen.
“What?” I spat. “Is that a joke? Are you trying to be funny right now? I can't remember a freaking thing and you're going around making jokes. Just awesome.” I huffed. “Nobody in their right mind would name their kid after that dog on Blue's Clues. Try again.”” ->lol😭😂
🎀tropes:
「 my thoughts 」
4⭐️ so goodddd!! i loved how they involved all the characters from previous books, and the texts on the gc in the book were so funny genuinely i would love to be a part of their family lol. i also loved how protective the uncles were of anna. also ngl the usage of slang in this book made me cringe and want to cry😭😂 and i’m so glad everything worked out and they all got what they wanted bc i didn’t want either of them to give up their dream
。၄၃ characters ၄၃ 。
॥ blue॥ : OKAY THE FORGETTING EVERYTHING WAS GENIUS actually it was so adorable when he first saw her after he forgot everything, and how he slowly put all the pieces together. honestly i was so close to reaching through the book and slapping him when he believed his dad and lacy or whatever her name was over anna.
॥ anna॥ : i loved how she finally built down her walls and was able to let blue back in. i loved their sweater exchange thing, and the fact that she got to wear his hoodie😭🙏🩷(i wish), and that he still wore the necklace she got for him
॥ jonah॥ : good for him for realizing how anna still loved blue and letting her go, and even gave her advice that changed everything lol. slightly odd tho that he went and got with anna’s best friend but what do i know
॥ brooklyn॥ : i loved her personality and the texts she sent as anna to blue. okay idk if it’s just me but how was everyone so okay with her secretly dating anna’s ex??
॥ sophie ॥ : obviously she wasn’t technically in the book but i still loved how she was mentioned and how they planned to name lemon’s daughter after her
ଽ favorite quotes
“Man, I loved this girl. With my entire heart. There wasn't a single thing about her I didn't love. Her goodness, her sense of humor, her beauty, how she’d befriend anyone, especially someone who was friendless. How hard she loved me.”
“Cooper puffed his chest, preening. “Does she talk about me in her sleep?”
Brooklyn's expression was blank. “No. Why would she talk about you? You have no rizz.”
Cooper deflated.” ->😭😂
“”Your name is Blue? Or is that a nickname?” The nurse read from the computer screen.
“What?” I spat. “Is that a joke? Are you trying to be funny right now? I can't remember a freaking thing and you're going around making jokes. Just awesome.” I huffed. “Nobody in their right mind would name their kid after that dog on Blue's Clues. Try again.”” ->lol😭😂
March 29, 2025
3.25+ stars
A super cute read. Enjoyable
A super cute read. Enjoyable
September 1, 2024
I genuinely had NO idea college football was so HUGE! My husband explained that a lot of places don't have an NFL team so college games are a huge deal. I understand that now!!! Okay so this book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. It broke my heart, made me laugh, made me cry. I got so emotionally invested in Anna and Blue. It's funny how the world can work for people. I know these guys are characters but this stuff happens. I love love and these two just captured my heart. I loved Duncle Silas and Lemon. They were so funny together. The whole Dupree clan were great. Blue's dad Shane? What a horrible and narcissistic man. He was so mean to Anna and his own son! Blue's mum and brother were so sweet too. Shane aside, it was a very unlikable cast of characters.
The story was told in first person. There dual POV. This was from Anna and Blue's perspectives. This worked well as we got to see everything behind both of their eyes. It was a sweet story with a beautiful HEA. I recommend this highly to you all!
The story was told in first person. There dual POV. This was from Anna and Blue's perspectives. This worked well as we got to see everything behind both of their eyes. It was a sweet story with a beautiful HEA. I recommend this highly to you all!
September 24, 2024
Such a great read - I loved the complexities of Anna and Blue’s relationship. The two of them couldn’t be more perfect for each other but come from completely opposite family lifestyles and situations. Anna comes from a big, well-off family that’s respectful in your business, while Blue comes from a small family with a money-hungry father. But the two of them really care about each other and you can feel their connection through the book. There are so many twists and turns in the story without it feeling like it’s pushing for more action in the book. The twists and turns in the book flow together so well, and honestly, it just feels like real life where life is multi-faceted and everyone is always dealing with more than just one issue in their life.
Thank you, Partner, @bookedwiththeemilys @susanhenshawauthor for gifting me this book!
Thank you, Partner, @bookedwiththeemilys @susanhenshawauthor for gifting me this book!
September 11, 2024
⚠️SPOILERS AHEAD⚠️
Okay, here we go…
I am really going to rant, because this book was just terrible!
I found out about this book because I’m signed up for Judy Corry’s email newsletter (her books are great by the way!) and this title was included at the end of one of those emails…
The description sounded fun and right up my alley with the sports/amnesia trope, and once I saw that the cover didn’t have any people on the cover, I was ALL IN (Have you ever seen those ugly books that have iPad-procreate-DIY-drawn-people with NO EYES covers? Yeah, those are nasty)!
I immediately put this sucker on my kindle and started reading it.
The first 33% of this book wasn’t bad! I like how Henshaw started the book off with describing Blue’s and Anna’s deep, complicated-by-others love for each other and then showed their past history + breakup…
Then the amnesia trope just came out of NOWHERE…. Anna randomly decides to listen to her current boyfriend’s idea to drive hours away to see a football game of Blue’s, and then Blue gets injured during that game and wakes up with amnesia. Okay, weird, but manageable, right? I was wrong. 🤷🏻♂️
The amnesia was so wonkily written in and, most importantly, inconsistent, that it was hard to enjoy the book.
HOWEVER: Blue had some good lines right here and it made me think that his character alone could save this poorly written story. (it didn't)
“Unbelievable. Tell that jackass who claims to be my dad to get back in here so I can give him a piece of my mind.”
-Blue
“…And get somebody in here that I know.”
-Blue (while in the recovery room right after waking up with amnesia)
“You don’t have to miss me ever again, [Anna].”
-Blue
But then the poor writing started to take over….
“Pshaw. I’d like to see you try. He’s taller than you now.”
Her brow flicked up. “And don’t you tell me what I should do. You’re not the one raising him. Physically or financially. Heck, you owe me child support for the past nine months.”
“What?” I gave Dad a pointed look. “I know for a fact that I gave you money to give to her.”
Dad sneered at me. “You know you gave me money? How would you know that? You can’t even remember your middle name.”
This writing was just cheap! The author tries too hard the whole book to make Blue’s dad mean.
🏈Now for some random bits of cringey writing that I found unbearable (and believe me, there were WAY more moments than what I’m puttin’ down):
“Daisy appeared out of nowhere, a sickening smugness on her lips. “I did some digging and she’s right,” she purred, trading a glance with Lacy. “I think you’ve been backing the wrong horse. Lacy is the one who’s always had your best interests at heart.””
🤦🏻♂️
“..the men in my life were so good. How could I ask for better than the men in this room? As if the universe heard my question, the barn door slid open and Blue walked in.”
Give me a break! 🤦🏻♂️
Anna is just upset with Blue about everything and isn’t really giving him any chances to make things right. She wants him to be perfect and won’t really accept any of his human flaws.
Then Blue remembers everything one day (amnesia trope OVER) and still has to go back n forth with Anna and her stupid relatives to win her back and stay in her life.
I could spend 15 minutes writing about how annoying all the extra family members were and how confusing it was to hear all these damn names of people (having never read a book from Henshaw before, therefore never having been introduced to the people in this series), but I’m not going to. JUST KNOW that the people are stupid, annoying, and so useless. These peeps were just filler for this weak story. 🤣
The “exchange sweatshirt” bit was a good attempt at some cutesy love history between them two, but it was very YA. Also, who says “exchange a sweatshirt” (singular)? Wouldn’t it be “exchange our sweatshirts”? Okay. 🤣
Then the whole rest of the freaking story is just Blue and Anna taking turns not being able to compromise, speak truthfully, or make ANY DECISIONS. Anna is SO PICK-ME about wanting to be a vet instead of a VET TECH…. She cries and then the author just writes about how she’s not eating to try to paint the picture that she’s really sad about her life. Give me a break. THEN, Blue goes and sacrifices his whole career (goes to a college team to play instead of getting drafted by the NFL) just to stay close to Anna, when ANNA hasn’t sacrificed a single damn thing for him this whole book! Eh, just annoying to read about.
Then, at the wedding, the whole bit where Anna and Blue are trying to quickly say goodbye so that they can go to their hotel and sleep together for the first time (they’ve never slept together; Anna’s been waiting for him her whole life) was absolutely horrible and annoying!
“Well,” she said, smiling up at me. “You heard the lady. Let’s get to it.” It was all the permission I needed.
WHAT THE HECK STOP!!!!
I don’t mind the tropes of like “hey, I wanna wait”… but it has to be written in correctly! It can’t be cringey! UGH. Why are all CLEAN books cringe as hell?
May I ASK:
WHAT THE HECK WAS UP WITH THE TWO HORRIBLE EPILOGUES?
“Daddy,” Belle squealed. “Your butt!” Blaze snickered. Blue hissed out a swear word and dropped my hair. I peeked under my arm to see him bear-crawling back to the towel that he’d apparently lost halfway across the room.
⬆️
SERIOUSLY WHY?????? This is unbelievable.
Oh wait, it gets worse:
“Blue?” I lifted his head to see tears in his eyes. “What in the world?” “Sorry.” He gulped, beaming. “I just love having babies with you. It’s my favorite.”
Oh, that’s not all. It gets EVEN worse:
“As soon as this baby arrives safe and sound, you’re getting snipped. Otherwise, I’m never going to be able to use my vet degree.”
I can’t believe I read this book. The trope was interesting, but that’s it. All the characters were annoying, the dialogue was terrible, and the ending was so stupid.
Plus, we don’t ever get to know (if by this time the reader even still CARES about Blue’s football career; I did, because the whole damn book was about what path Blue would take in his sports career. Actually, that was the only thing I actually cared about, now that I’m thinking about it!) if Blue gets drafted by the NFL! You have to click on some weird email BTS link from the author to read a bonus chapter; I was not interested in doing all that work.
What good can I say about this book?
1. It’s closed door
2. Blue is a good guy + has a few good lines
3. The cover isn’t hideous
I really wish this book had been written well. Sorry, I really don’t mean to be rude…! I just thought this book was very poorly written.
Bottom line: Anna is a total brat and annoying. She flipped out and dumped Blue because he literally could not make it home for Christmas... that says it all right there. She is the whole problem in this book.
P.S. That bit where Anna's best friend tells Blue they need to break up FOREVER so that Anna could be a vet? WHAT THE HECK!!! Give me a break. 🤦🏻♂️
Okay, here we go…
I am really going to rant, because this book was just terrible!
I found out about this book because I’m signed up for Judy Corry’s email newsletter (her books are great by the way!) and this title was included at the end of one of those emails…
The description sounded fun and right up my alley with the sports/amnesia trope, and once I saw that the cover didn’t have any people on the cover, I was ALL IN (Have you ever seen those ugly books that have iPad-procreate-DIY-drawn-people with NO EYES covers? Yeah, those are nasty)!
I immediately put this sucker on my kindle and started reading it.
The first 33% of this book wasn’t bad! I like how Henshaw started the book off with describing Blue’s and Anna’s deep, complicated-by-others love for each other and then showed their past history + breakup…
Then the amnesia trope just came out of NOWHERE…. Anna randomly decides to listen to her current boyfriend’s idea to drive hours away to see a football game of Blue’s, and then Blue gets injured during that game and wakes up with amnesia. Okay, weird, but manageable, right? I was wrong. 🤷🏻♂️
The amnesia was so wonkily written in and, most importantly, inconsistent, that it was hard to enjoy the book.
HOWEVER: Blue had some good lines right here and it made me think that his character alone could save this poorly written story. (it didn't)
“Unbelievable. Tell that jackass who claims to be my dad to get back in here so I can give him a piece of my mind.”
-Blue
“…And get somebody in here that I know.”
-Blue (while in the recovery room right after waking up with amnesia)
“You don’t have to miss me ever again, [Anna].”
-Blue
But then the poor writing started to take over….
“Pshaw. I’d like to see you try. He’s taller than you now.”
Her brow flicked up. “And don’t you tell me what I should do. You’re not the one raising him. Physically or financially. Heck, you owe me child support for the past nine months.”
“What?” I gave Dad a pointed look. “I know for a fact that I gave you money to give to her.”
Dad sneered at me. “You know you gave me money? How would you know that? You can’t even remember your middle name.”
This writing was just cheap! The author tries too hard the whole book to make Blue’s dad mean.
🏈Now for some random bits of cringey writing that I found unbearable (and believe me, there were WAY more moments than what I’m puttin’ down):
“Daisy appeared out of nowhere, a sickening smugness on her lips. “I did some digging and she’s right,” she purred, trading a glance with Lacy. “I think you’ve been backing the wrong horse. Lacy is the one who’s always had your best interests at heart.””
🤦🏻♂️
“..the men in my life were so good. How could I ask for better than the men in this room? As if the universe heard my question, the barn door slid open and Blue walked in.”
Give me a break! 🤦🏻♂️
Anna is just upset with Blue about everything and isn’t really giving him any chances to make things right. She wants him to be perfect and won’t really accept any of his human flaws.
Then Blue remembers everything one day (amnesia trope OVER) and still has to go back n forth with Anna and her stupid relatives to win her back and stay in her life.
I could spend 15 minutes writing about how annoying all the extra family members were and how confusing it was to hear all these damn names of people (having never read a book from Henshaw before, therefore never having been introduced to the people in this series), but I’m not going to. JUST KNOW that the people are stupid, annoying, and so useless. These peeps were just filler for this weak story. 🤣
The “exchange sweatshirt” bit was a good attempt at some cutesy love history between them two, but it was very YA. Also, who says “exchange a sweatshirt” (singular)? Wouldn’t it be “exchange our sweatshirts”? Okay. 🤣
Then the whole rest of the freaking story is just Blue and Anna taking turns not being able to compromise, speak truthfully, or make ANY DECISIONS. Anna is SO PICK-ME about wanting to be a vet instead of a VET TECH…. She cries and then the author just writes about how she’s not eating to try to paint the picture that she’s really sad about her life. Give me a break. THEN, Blue goes and sacrifices his whole career (goes to a college team to play instead of getting drafted by the NFL) just to stay close to Anna, when ANNA hasn’t sacrificed a single damn thing for him this whole book! Eh, just annoying to read about.
Then, at the wedding, the whole bit where Anna and Blue are trying to quickly say goodbye so that they can go to their hotel and sleep together for the first time (they’ve never slept together; Anna’s been waiting for him her whole life) was absolutely horrible and annoying!
“Well,” she said, smiling up at me. “You heard the lady. Let’s get to it.” It was all the permission I needed.
WHAT THE HECK STOP!!!!
I don’t mind the tropes of like “hey, I wanna wait”… but it has to be written in correctly! It can’t be cringey! UGH. Why are all CLEAN books cringe as hell?
May I ASK:
WHAT THE HECK WAS UP WITH THE TWO HORRIBLE EPILOGUES?
“Daddy,” Belle squealed. “Your butt!” Blaze snickered. Blue hissed out a swear word and dropped my hair. I peeked under my arm to see him bear-crawling back to the towel that he’d apparently lost halfway across the room.
⬆️
SERIOUSLY WHY?????? This is unbelievable.
Oh wait, it gets worse:
“Blue?” I lifted his head to see tears in his eyes. “What in the world?” “Sorry.” He gulped, beaming. “I just love having babies with you. It’s my favorite.”
Oh, that’s not all. It gets EVEN worse:
“As soon as this baby arrives safe and sound, you’re getting snipped. Otherwise, I’m never going to be able to use my vet degree.”
I can’t believe I read this book. The trope was interesting, but that’s it. All the characters were annoying, the dialogue was terrible, and the ending was so stupid.
Plus, we don’t ever get to know (if by this time the reader even still CARES about Blue’s football career; I did, because the whole damn book was about what path Blue would take in his sports career. Actually, that was the only thing I actually cared about, now that I’m thinking about it!) if Blue gets drafted by the NFL! You have to click on some weird email BTS link from the author to read a bonus chapter; I was not interested in doing all that work.
What good can I say about this book?
1. It’s closed door
2. Blue is a good guy + has a few good lines
3. The cover isn’t hideous
I really wish this book had been written well. Sorry, I really don’t mean to be rude…! I just thought this book was very poorly written.
Bottom line: Anna is a total brat and annoying. She flipped out and dumped Blue because he literally could not make it home for Christmas... that says it all right there. She is the whole problem in this book.
P.S. That bit where Anna's best friend tells Blue they need to break up FOREVER so that Anna could be a vet? WHAT THE HECK!!! Give me a break. 🤦🏻♂️
December 30, 2024
Surprise surprise, another 5 stars. One more book left in the series and i am so sad already
September 22, 2024
Thank you, @bookedwiththeemilys and @susanhenshawauthor, for #gifted book and part of the book tour.
I just finished reading the the third book in the Seddledown Series, and I have to say, it completely captivated me. The story of Anna and Blue, high school sweethearts who take different paths only to find their way back to each other, is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. The alternating perspectives of Anna and Blue allowed me to truly empathize with their struggles and triumphs. I found myself laughing at the outrageousness of Anna's family and friends, shedding tears at the heartbreak they endured, and feeling the urge to shake some sense into them at times.
Susan's writing skillfully blends poignancy and humor, making the characters feel incredibly real and relatable. The first two Seddledown books were fantastic, but this third installment took the series to a whole new level. I'm eagerly anticipating Susan's next book, which will focus on Anna's Uncle Ashton.
If you're a fan of romance, I can't recommend this book enough. It's an emotional rollercoaster that you won't want to get off. Go ahead and grab your copy today – you won't regret it!
I just finished reading the the third book in the Seddledown Series, and I have to say, it completely captivated me. The story of Anna and Blue, high school sweethearts who take different paths only to find their way back to each other, is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. The alternating perspectives of Anna and Blue allowed me to truly empathize with their struggles and triumphs. I found myself laughing at the outrageousness of Anna's family and friends, shedding tears at the heartbreak they endured, and feeling the urge to shake some sense into them at times.
Susan's writing skillfully blends poignancy and humor, making the characters feel incredibly real and relatable. The first two Seddledown books were fantastic, but this third installment took the series to a whole new level. I'm eagerly anticipating Susan's next book, which will focus on Anna's Uncle Ashton.
If you're a fan of romance, I can't recommend this book enough. It's an emotional rollercoaster that you won't want to get off. Go ahead and grab your copy today – you won't regret it!
September 18, 2024
This was the cutest story! It had me laughing, it had me cheering, it even had me tear up. It was refreshing to read a closed-door romance, but it was not without tension between the two main characters. This is part of a series, and I need to read the first two books. It did not take away from the story though, it can be read as a stand alone. You better believe I am racing to read the first two though!
November 15, 2024
I loved this!! I tried to read the first book in the series but couldn't fully get into it. I knew enough from that to know Anna's background though and I'm so glad I gave this one a shot. There was definitely a bit of an emotional rollercoaster between these two but it was so good in the end. Onto book 4!
Language: mild
Spice: closed door between a married couple
Language: mild
Spice: closed door between a married couple
July 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Blue Bishop & Anna Dupree
- Dual POV
- Built in Playlist
- High school sweethearts
- College students
- Friends to dating to strangers to forever
- Football player MMC
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- How all of Anna’s uncles love her fiercely
- Ford’s absolute mess 🫠 that he makes but also helps??
- Their remeet & second love at first sight
- The longing they have for one another even though life keeps pulling them apart
- Aunt Lemon and her encouragement
- Sophie’s letter 🥹
- The ending 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 3 of the Seddledowne Series - Blue and Anna might be my actual favorites. I adored this book. My heart broke for both MCs in different ways because their struggles are so human. Figuring who you are in high school and college. Chasing dreams but wanting your person. Knowing deeply you need your person. Fighting the connection because of hurt and being terrified. It’s all so real and so I was truly celebrating with them when it all came together in the end 💕
I was actually crying in that epilogue multiple times because of stinking Sophie. This family has my heart. Their struggles, their wins, their love, their dedication to one another. It’s all inspiring and has filled my heart. The friendships made and all the support from friends and family makes you crave community.
“If you’re okay with big emotions, realistic situations, and swoony kisses, you’re in the right place” - Susan H
This is a closed door contemporary romance. Author has a note and content warning about the book in the beginning. There are lots of discussions of sex (some very short, nondescript fade to black), innuendo, and some mild cursing.
Songs:
Religiously by Bailey Zimmerman
Lovesick by Jenna Raine
What was by Benson Boone
Cry by benson Boone
Thinkin bout me by Morgan Wallen
I knew it, I know you by Gracie Adams
That’s not how this works by Charlie Puth & Sabrina Carpenter
King of California by Dasha
Rock and Hard Place by Bailey Zimmerman
This heart by Corey Kent
What a time by Julia Micheals & Niall Horan
See you later by Jenna Raine
That part by Lauren Spencer Smith
My greatest fear by Benson Boone
I’m not pretty by Megan Moroney
Pretty Slowly by Benson Boone
Into you by Julia Micheals
Exhale by Sabrina Carpenter
Blue Bishop & Anna Dupree
- Dual POV
- Built in Playlist
- High school sweethearts
- College students
- Friends to dating to strangers to forever
- Football player MMC
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- How all of Anna’s uncles love her fiercely
- Ford’s absolute mess 🫠 that he makes but also helps??
- Their remeet & second love at first sight
- The longing they have for one another even though life keeps pulling them apart
- Aunt Lemon and her encouragement
- Sophie’s letter 🥹
- The ending 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 3 of the Seddledowne Series - Blue and Anna might be my actual favorites. I adored this book. My heart broke for both MCs in different ways because their struggles are so human. Figuring who you are in high school and college. Chasing dreams but wanting your person. Knowing deeply you need your person. Fighting the connection because of hurt and being terrified. It’s all so real and so I was truly celebrating with them when it all came together in the end 💕
I was actually crying in that epilogue multiple times because of stinking Sophie. This family has my heart. Their struggles, their wins, their love, their dedication to one another. It’s all inspiring and has filled my heart. The friendships made and all the support from friends and family makes you crave community.
“If you’re okay with big emotions, realistic situations, and swoony kisses, you’re in the right place” - Susan H
This is a closed door contemporary romance. Author has a note and content warning about the book in the beginning. There are lots of discussions of sex (some very short, nondescript fade to black), innuendo, and some mild cursing.
Songs:
Religiously by Bailey Zimmerman
Lovesick by Jenna Raine
What was by Benson Boone
Cry by benson Boone
Thinkin bout me by Morgan Wallen
I knew it, I know you by Gracie Adams
That’s not how this works by Charlie Puth & Sabrina Carpenter
King of California by Dasha
Rock and Hard Place by Bailey Zimmerman
This heart by Corey Kent
What a time by Julia Micheals & Niall Horan
See you later by Jenna Raine
That part by Lauren Spencer Smith
My greatest fear by Benson Boone
I’m not pretty by Megan Moroney
Pretty Slowly by Benson Boone
Into you by Julia Micheals
Exhale by Sabrina Carpenter
September 15, 2024
I received an arc from the author via Booked with the Emilys. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blue Bishop is at the top of his game— star quarterback for the University of Knoxville and likely to be drafted in the first round of the NFL draft after this year. But Blue made the biggest mistake of his life four years ago— leaving Seddledowne, and Anna. Blue has regretted it ever since.
Anna Dupree was absolutely shattered when Blue left four years ago. The distance was too much. Anna has tried to move on since, but she can’t. When her current boyfriend insists she needs to lay eyes on Blue and figure this out, she goes to Blue’s game. She had no plans of actually talking to him, but unfortunately her famous singer uncle had other plans. Anna is forced onto the field to sing and comes face to face with the only man she’s ever loved.
I loved seeing these two reconnect after years apart and all the hurt they caused each other. This book is raw and real— showing the realities of long distance dating and two competing careers. What do you do when the only person that feels right for you is constantly being pulled away? Do you give up your dream career or your dream man?
I love you, all to pieces. <3
Read if you like:
• football romance
• second chance romance
• amnesia trope
• found family
• small towns
• closed door romance
Blue Bishop is at the top of his game— star quarterback for the University of Knoxville and likely to be drafted in the first round of the NFL draft after this year. But Blue made the biggest mistake of his life four years ago— leaving Seddledowne, and Anna. Blue has regretted it ever since.
Anna Dupree was absolutely shattered when Blue left four years ago. The distance was too much. Anna has tried to move on since, but she can’t. When her current boyfriend insists she needs to lay eyes on Blue and figure this out, she goes to Blue’s game. She had no plans of actually talking to him, but unfortunately her famous singer uncle had other plans. Anna is forced onto the field to sing and comes face to face with the only man she’s ever loved.
I loved seeing these two reconnect after years apart and all the hurt they caused each other. This book is raw and real— showing the realities of long distance dating and two competing careers. What do you do when the only person that feels right for you is constantly being pulled away? Do you give up your dream career or your dream man?
I love you, all to pieces. <3
Read if you like:
• football romance
• second chance romance
• amnesia trope
• found family
• small towns
• closed door romance
September 26, 2024
A second chance angsty college football romance with solid characters and a fun loving set of uncles!
Blue and Anna are high schoolers in love. They started as friends and both know that their love for each other is endgame but when Blue’s dad forces him to move all the way to California, they grow apart and have a nasty break up.
4 years later, Anna has moved on with her life but not her heart. She hates blue for how he tore them apart but she is trying to move on the best she can. She is applying for vet school (her dream!) and has a steady boyfriend Jonah. Jonah knows she is not over her ex so he gives her an ultimatum: go see him and clear the air or they are done. She decided to go to his football game just to see how she feels when she sees him but when her Uncle Ford, a famous country musician, ambushes her at the game and makes her sing with him during the pre games she is forced to not only see Blue but also interact and speak with him as well.
Blue knows he's not over Anna and will do anything for her to give him another chance but when he loses his memory when he gets a concussion, he is forced back to his high school version, the one where they're still together, and Anna and him must navigate a new normal until he gets his memory back and remembers everything that happened between them to drive them apart.
This was my kinda book. I enjoy second chance angst college romances and this book delivered. Nothing too over the top but it was solid and well paced. You get flashbacks to high school and what happened to drive them apart and also how mistakes let them to where they are today.
Even though this was the third book in the series, it can be read and standalone. I didn't feel like I missed out on any backstory. I did need a little cheat sheet for all her Uncles though! I believe they each have their own book and they were such fun characters with great personalities who were always looking out for Anna. I also really liked the supporting friend characters. They were very loyal to both Anna and Blue and it was great to see friends support each other.
The end was a little sappy but I was ok with it because it was a good way to conclude their story. I also loved the extended epilogue to see how their story continues years into the future.
Huge thanks to Booked with the Emilys and Susan Henshaw for sharing this book’s digital advanced review copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
Blue and Anna are high schoolers in love. They started as friends and both know that their love for each other is endgame but when Blue’s dad forces him to move all the way to California, they grow apart and have a nasty break up.
4 years later, Anna has moved on with her life but not her heart. She hates blue for how he tore them apart but she is trying to move on the best she can. She is applying for vet school (her dream!) and has a steady boyfriend Jonah. Jonah knows she is not over her ex so he gives her an ultimatum: go see him and clear the air or they are done. She decided to go to his football game just to see how she feels when she sees him but when her Uncle Ford, a famous country musician, ambushes her at the game and makes her sing with him during the pre games she is forced to not only see Blue but also interact and speak with him as well.
Blue knows he's not over Anna and will do anything for her to give him another chance but when he loses his memory when he gets a concussion, he is forced back to his high school version, the one where they're still together, and Anna and him must navigate a new normal until he gets his memory back and remembers everything that happened between them to drive them apart.
This was my kinda book. I enjoy second chance angst college romances and this book delivered. Nothing too over the top but it was solid and well paced. You get flashbacks to high school and what happened to drive them apart and also how mistakes let them to where they are today.
Even though this was the third book in the series, it can be read and standalone. I didn't feel like I missed out on any backstory. I did need a little cheat sheet for all her Uncles though! I believe they each have their own book and they were such fun characters with great personalities who were always looking out for Anna. I also really liked the supporting friend characters. They were very loyal to both Anna and Blue and it was great to see friends support each other.
The end was a little sappy but I was ok with it because it was a good way to conclude their story. I also loved the extended epilogue to see how their story continues years into the future.
Huge thanks to Booked with the Emilys and Susan Henshaw for sharing this book’s digital advanced review copy with me in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2025
Emotional small town first love/second chance romance
4.5⭐️ 0.5🌶️ Book 3 in the Seddledowne series—small town first love/second chance college football 🏈 romance with a lot of angst, hilarious moments, a very involved family, and heart. This is my 3rd book by this author, and I will be reading more. 🙌🏻
Anna Dupree and Blue Bishop met early in high school and instantly were an item (people gave them the ship name Blupree 🤣). Blue’s dad only cared about Blue making it to the NFL (his dad never even hugged him 😢), so he took Blue to California to finish high school (and away from Anna) at a division 1 feeder school. The long distance was hard on Anna, and they broke up. 4 1/2 years later and Anna sees him at his college game and all of the love/emotions/feelings come back but Blue gets injured and loses his memory. Even though Blue doesn’t remember Anna, he feels/knows she’s familiar/important to him. ❤️ It seems like this is where they’d get their second chance but not quite yet. The emotional roller coaster 🎢 continues, and at times I questioned if Anna & Blue would find their way back to each other. I NEEDED them to find their way back to each other. Hard things happen - real life happens - but eventually they get their epic love story.
❤️ He nuzzles his nose to her nose/neck/jaw/hair and it melts me. 🫠 They read a letter from her mom who passed away from cancer. 🥺 The 3, YES 3 Epilogues. 🙌🏻👏🏻❤️
Favorite quotes:
"I love you. All to pieces." It was something she'd taught me. Something her mom used to say to her before she'd passed away.
‘I'd never been loved by anyone the way I'd been loved by Blue, and I'd never loved anyone the way I'd loved him.’
‘She was the one I always came back to in my mind. The one I compared every girl to.’
"You don't know me."
"Yeah, I do. I just can't remember. But I know I do. I can feel it right here."
"I just keep getting pulled back to high school. But we aren't those kids. We're not in love anymore." Speak for yourself, I wanted to say.
"All to pieces?"
“We used to say that to each other. Like 'I love you' wasn't enough. Maybe for other people but not us. We had to top that so we'd say, 'I love you. All to pieces.'”
"I just want you to be happy. I want to make you happy."
“You do make me happy. Like stupid-happy."
‘It wasn't a necklace. It was my necklace.’
"I wear it all the time. I never take it off.
They tape it to me during games.”
“Whatever you want. Whatever you'll give me. Please, Anna. I just...I need you in my life."
"I will love you until the day I die. I need you to know that. And I'll wait, if that's what you need. If that's what it takes for you to understand that football is nothing and you're everything."
Read this if you like:
*Small town romance
*First love/second chance romance
*High school sweethearts ❤️
*College football 🏈
*Angst/tension
*’It’s always been you/soulmates
*He wears her necklace
*Amnesia
*Big family dynamics
*Hard-fought HEA
Content warning: Football injury/concussion, amnesia, toxic relationships, grief/loss
I’m excited for book 4 next - Ashton’s story.
4.5⭐️ 0.5🌶️ Book 3 in the Seddledowne series—small town first love/second chance college football 🏈 romance with a lot of angst, hilarious moments, a very involved family, and heart. This is my 3rd book by this author, and I will be reading more. 🙌🏻
Anna Dupree and Blue Bishop met early in high school and instantly were an item (people gave them the ship name Blupree 🤣). Blue’s dad only cared about Blue making it to the NFL (his dad never even hugged him 😢), so he took Blue to California to finish high school (and away from Anna) at a division 1 feeder school. The long distance was hard on Anna, and they broke up. 4 1/2 years later and Anna sees him at his college game and all of the love/emotions/feelings come back but Blue gets injured and loses his memory. Even though Blue doesn’t remember Anna, he feels/knows she’s familiar/important to him. ❤️ It seems like this is where they’d get their second chance but not quite yet. The emotional roller coaster 🎢 continues, and at times I questioned if Anna & Blue would find their way back to each other. I NEEDED them to find their way back to each other. Hard things happen - real life happens - but eventually they get their epic love story.
❤️ He nuzzles his nose to her nose/neck/jaw/hair and it melts me. 🫠 They read a letter from her mom who passed away from cancer. 🥺 The 3, YES 3 Epilogues. 🙌🏻👏🏻❤️
Favorite quotes:
"I love you. All to pieces." It was something she'd taught me. Something her mom used to say to her before she'd passed away.
‘I'd never been loved by anyone the way I'd been loved by Blue, and I'd never loved anyone the way I'd loved him.’
‘She was the one I always came back to in my mind. The one I compared every girl to.’
"You don't know me."
"Yeah, I do. I just can't remember. But I know I do. I can feel it right here."
"I just keep getting pulled back to high school. But we aren't those kids. We're not in love anymore." Speak for yourself, I wanted to say.
"All to pieces?"
“We used to say that to each other. Like 'I love you' wasn't enough. Maybe for other people but not us. We had to top that so we'd say, 'I love you. All to pieces.'”
"I just want you to be happy. I want to make you happy."
“You do make me happy. Like stupid-happy."
‘It wasn't a necklace. It was my necklace.’
"I wear it all the time. I never take it off.
They tape it to me during games.”
“Whatever you want. Whatever you'll give me. Please, Anna. I just...I need you in my life."
"I will love you until the day I die. I need you to know that. And I'll wait, if that's what you need. If that's what it takes for you to understand that football is nothing and you're everything."
Read this if you like:
*Small town romance
*First love/second chance romance
*High school sweethearts ❤️
*College football 🏈
*Angst/tension
*’It’s always been you/soulmates
*He wears her necklace
*Amnesia
*Big family dynamics
*Hard-fought HEA
Content warning: Football injury/concussion, amnesia, toxic relationships, grief/loss
I’m excited for book 4 next - Ashton’s story.
September 24, 2024
The Goods✨
•family group text
•second chance romance
•Brooklyn’s nicknames for blue
•A.N.D.
•college football
•Rocky Top
•stupid-happy
•high school sweethearts
•road trip
•long distance love
The way I devoured this college football romance. Let. Me. Tell. You. Now I need to go back and read all the other books in this series. I am hooked!!
I don’t often read books in the new adult genre but the drama and angst of this story just hit me at the right time. Blue and Anna’s romance is one that will stay with me. I absolutely ate up the whole high school sweetheart, second chance romance scenario. I loved their chemistry and connection. It hurt my heart with all that they went through. I loved the few flashbacks we got to fully understand everything that happened between them.
There were so many memorable moments in this story. I love scheming family and Ford takes the cake. Blue’s determination to be with Anna was next level and I absolutely fell for this golden retriever of a hero. A LOT happens in this story but I don’t want to spoil anything so if you love angsty, super romantic stories - READ THIS. Also, the epilogues — yes, there are multiple!
Content: lots of kisses
Available on KU.
Thank you to the author for a gifted copy. My thoughts are my own.
•family group text
•second chance romance
•Brooklyn’s nicknames for blue
•A.N.D.
•college football
•Rocky Top
•stupid-happy
•high school sweethearts
•road trip
•long distance love
The way I devoured this college football romance. Let. Me. Tell. You. Now I need to go back and read all the other books in this series. I am hooked!!
I don’t often read books in the new adult genre but the drama and angst of this story just hit me at the right time. Blue and Anna’s romance is one that will stay with me. I absolutely ate up the whole high school sweetheart, second chance romance scenario. I loved their chemistry and connection. It hurt my heart with all that they went through. I loved the few flashbacks we got to fully understand everything that happened between them.
There were so many memorable moments in this story. I love scheming family and Ford takes the cake. Blue’s determination to be with Anna was next level and I absolutely fell for this golden retriever of a hero. A LOT happens in this story but I don’t want to spoil anything so if you love angsty, super romantic stories - READ THIS. Also, the epilogues — yes, there are multiple!
Content: lots of kisses
Available on KU.
Thank you to the author for a gifted copy. My thoughts are my own.
February 23, 2025
Good Until it Wasn’t
I am a die hard Chiefs fan having grown up in the city and lived not far from the stadium in Missouri. Not for sure how no one has not caught the inaccuracy in research in the epilogue. But it mentions Kansas. And that ruined the entirety of the book for me. As I knew right then no research besides surface level work was done on the sport this entire book is about. I enjoyed the banter of the family members but otherwise the book was too inconsistent for me to truly enjoy it.
I am a die hard Chiefs fan having grown up in the city and lived not far from the stadium in Missouri. Not for sure how no one has not caught the inaccuracy in research in the epilogue. But it mentions Kansas. And that ruined the entirety of the book for me. As I knew right then no research besides surface level work was done on the sport this entire book is about. I enjoyed the banter of the family members but otherwise the book was too inconsistent for me to truly enjoy it.
September 6, 2024
Holy moly. This one had me all in my feels. I don't think I've cried that hard reading since I read Reminders of Him. Sheesh. All. The. Feels.
I cried, gasped, laughed out loud, giggle, and sobbed. All along with Anna and Blue. I didn't know this was part of a series and have only read this one. I was a little confused with Anna's family, but it didn't take anything away from story. Gosh I loved this one! Thank you Susan Henshaw!
I cried, gasped, laughed out loud, giggle, and sobbed. All along with Anna and Blue. I didn't know this was part of a series and have only read this one. I was a little confused with Anna's family, but it didn't take anything away from story. Gosh I loved this one! Thank you Susan Henshaw!
August 4, 2025
I really enjoyed Anna and Blue’s story—it was a refreshing and unique read that took me by surprise. The plot felt wholesome, and everything wrapped up in a satisfying way. If you're a fan of football romance, this one is definitely worth picking up!
September 25, 2025
I loved this book! But then I am loving the entire series. We meet Anna and Blue when they are quite young in book 1 of this series. Now we are back to their story and Henshaw includes scenes from earlier days, as well as current to fill us in.
Watching them navigate this second chance and watching Blue grow up and take charge of his life was great! I have to add that I adore Silas through this all. He is the best Dad-uncle and friend!
While you absolutely can read these as stand alones and in any order, I HIGHLY recommend starting with book 1 and reading in order as the stories progress and build.
Watching them navigate this second chance and watching Blue grow up and take charge of his life was great! I have to add that I adore Silas through this all. He is the best Dad-uncle and friend!
While you absolutely can read these as stand alones and in any order, I HIGHLY recommend starting with book 1 and reading in order as the stories progress and build.
June 6, 2025
4 star book 5 star end 😭
December 23, 2025
It was the most peaceful book in the series so far, and it couldn't have been more stressful. At least everyone gets a happy ending.
August 8, 2025
This was my first book by Susan Henshaw, and I’m kinda kicking myself for starting with book 3 (blame the ALC!) because wow, how adorably perfect was this?!
Anna and Blue? Total relationship goals… once they finally got their act together. I loved watching them grow into each other. And Uncle Ford? That sneaky, brilliant cad, we love him. The family group text had me cracking up and wishing I was apart of it. That letter scene at the end? Absolutely wrecked me.
Now I have to go back and read the first two books, but I’m seriously tempted to jump straight into Tally and Ashton’s story because that car ride? Whew. Sparks everywhere.
Anna and Blue? Total relationship goals… once they finally got their act together. I loved watching them grow into each other. And Uncle Ford? That sneaky, brilliant cad, we love him. The family group text had me cracking up and wishing I was apart of it. That letter scene at the end? Absolutely wrecked me.
Now I have to go back and read the first two books, but I’m seriously tempted to jump straight into Tally and Ashton’s story because that car ride? Whew. Sparks everywhere.
September 9, 2024
Susan Henshaw’s All to Pieces absolutely wrecked me in the best way possible! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that tore my heart out in chapter one, but wow, what an incredible journey it was. This story felt so real—raw, painful, and yet full of joy. Susan's writing talent shines through, and now I’m dying to read the first two in the series. All to Pieces brings together amnesia, college football, and high school sweethearts, all while exploring the complexities of a toxic relationship (so definitely approach with care if that’s a sensitive topic). Also, the dedication? One of my favorites ever!
September 7, 2024
I could not put this book down! I was frustrated, sad, happy, excited… so many emotions!
This book had me second guessing myself!! This amazing love story is like a second chance romance, and you’re rooting for them the entire time. The character development, the heartbreak, and all the love! Sometime you just need some growth, it might be with the right person, just not the right time!
Miss Susan Henshaw… stop playing with my feelings! This book is great, fantastically written, and had me wanting more.
This book had me second guessing myself!! This amazing love story is like a second chance romance, and you’re rooting for them the entire time. The character development, the heartbreak, and all the love! Sometime you just need some growth, it might be with the right person, just not the right time!
Miss Susan Henshaw… stop playing with my feelings! This book is great, fantastically written, and had me wanting more.
September 23, 2024
All To Pieces is aptly named as this story leaves you piecing together how you feel through the story because you'll go through all the emotions, you'll be laughing, crying, completely frustrated and wanting to strangle a certain Dad (or maybe that was just me) to rooting for them to find their HEA. Anna and Blue's story was well worth the emotional journey since I was left happy to have read it.
Each book in the Seddledowne Series has been so good and you want to be apart of the Dupree family, I know I wouldn't mind them meddling in my life. Susan has such a strong writing style, writes closed door romance really well, the chemistry and dynamics between all the characters is so good. Definitely recommend this book and this series if you're looking for a good closed door series.
Each book in the Seddledowne Series has been so good and you want to be apart of the Dupree family, I know I wouldn't mind them meddling in my life. Susan has such a strong writing style, writes closed door romance really well, the chemistry and dynamics between all the characters is so good. Definitely recommend this book and this series if you're looking for a good closed door series.
August 23, 2025
*New as of 8/21/25
Before: I read this as an arc. It was my first book by this author. I loved it then. now: I listened to this on audio. I have read the whole series. I love this even more! I had tears in the first few chapters because I know the journey the main characters would go through to get to their well-deserved happily ever after. Anna and Blue’s journey still remains one of my favorite childhood friends-to-lovers and second chance books. Character growth in this book was phenomenal…they both knew what they wanted after being separated and were open and honest. Their story solidifies the fact the road to love isn’t always easy. Can I add that the sports romance trope with football references and scenes were realistic and well written, too?! Yep, still a favorite five star closed-door romance.
The dual narration of JF Harding and Kristyna Ruth Zaharek was amazing. I loved how their voices sounded a big younger (but not childish!) as the characters are still in college. They both realistically showcased all the emotions and feels worthy of this story. Experiencing this on audio was a wonderful experience!
Thanks to the author and High Gravity Productions for the ALC.
Original:
I’m a sucker for a childhood friends to lovers story (my absolute favorite of all tropes), especially if it is told in a first person dual point-of-view. I had a feeling I would like this book from the get go. Anna and Blue’s journey was everything I wanted for this trope, despite the characters being young (to me anyway)-having dated in high school and getting a second chance at love in college. Character growth in this book was phenomenal…they both knew what they wanted after being separated and were open and honest-it made all three epilogues (each priceless!) so much more sweeter and solidified the fact the road to love isn’t always easy. Can I add that the sports romance trope with football references and scenes were realistic and well written, too?! I haven’t yet read the first two books (also closed-door romances) in this series, but they were promptly added to my TBR after I wiped a tear or two from my face upon finishing this one.
4.5 stars
Thanks to the author and Booked With The Emily’s for a gifted copy.
Before: I read this as an arc. It was my first book by this author. I loved it then. now: I listened to this on audio. I have read the whole series. I love this even more! I had tears in the first few chapters because I know the journey the main characters would go through to get to their well-deserved happily ever after. Anna and Blue’s journey still remains one of my favorite childhood friends-to-lovers and second chance books. Character growth in this book was phenomenal…they both knew what they wanted after being separated and were open and honest. Their story solidifies the fact the road to love isn’t always easy. Can I add that the sports romance trope with football references and scenes were realistic and well written, too?! Yep, still a favorite five star closed-door romance.
The dual narration of JF Harding and Kristyna Ruth Zaharek was amazing. I loved how their voices sounded a big younger (but not childish!) as the characters are still in college. They both realistically showcased all the emotions and feels worthy of this story. Experiencing this on audio was a wonderful experience!
Thanks to the author and High Gravity Productions for the ALC.
Original:
I’m a sucker for a childhood friends to lovers story (my absolute favorite of all tropes), especially if it is told in a first person dual point-of-view. I had a feeling I would like this book from the get go. Anna and Blue’s journey was everything I wanted for this trope, despite the characters being young (to me anyway)-having dated in high school and getting a second chance at love in college. Character growth in this book was phenomenal…they both knew what they wanted after being separated and were open and honest-it made all three epilogues (each priceless!) so much more sweeter and solidified the fact the road to love isn’t always easy. Can I add that the sports romance trope with football references and scenes were realistic and well written, too?! I haven’t yet read the first two books (also closed-door romances) in this series, but they were promptly added to my TBR after I wiped a tear or two from my face upon finishing this one.
4.5 stars
Thanks to the author and Booked With The Emily’s for a gifted copy.
September 14, 2024
I enjoyed the second change romance with dual POV with flashbacks, Susan did a beautiful job crafting a backstory that instantly made you feel connected to the main characters, Anna and Blue. The chapters were clearly labeled with POV and point in time (past vs. present).
I thought Blue was so sweet and in love with Anna, however Susan protested him as a realistic early 20-something guy and it made the story more believable. Anna is driven and hard working towards her vet degree, but her love for Blue has never wavered.
Anna & Blue's history is so heartbreaking and they have had to deal with some really heavy issues (I.e., grief, loss, death of parent, gaslighting) at an early age. You can really see Anna & Blue grow as individuals throughout the novel and together as a couple.
This is a closed door romance with almost no spice. It's very sweet. I would say overall the writing of this novel was OK. I was not blown away by the writing but it also didn't take away from enjoying the story.
I thought Blue was so sweet and in love with Anna, however Susan protested him as a realistic early 20-something guy and it made the story more believable. Anna is driven and hard working towards her vet degree, but her love for Blue has never wavered.
Anna & Blue's history is so heartbreaking and they have had to deal with some really heavy issues (I.e., grief, loss, death of parent, gaslighting) at an early age. You can really see Anna & Blue grow as individuals throughout the novel and together as a couple.
This is a closed door romance with almost no spice. It's very sweet. I would say overall the writing of this novel was OK. I was not blown away by the writing but it also didn't take away from enjoying the story.
October 3, 2025
All To Pieces is book three in the Seddledowne Series, but it can be enjoyed completely as a standalone. Susan Henshaw delivers a heartfelt, closed-door, second-chance romance that feels both tender and real. Blue and Anna’s story is one of youthful love interrupted by circumstance, only to be reignited years later under the blinding lights of a football stadium. The dual POV gives you the perfect window into both of their emotions the regret, the longing, and the undeniable pull that never went away. It’s a story that blends the thrill of Friday-night lights with the raw realities of long distance, broken trust, and the messy path back to each other. Sweet, emotional, and beautifully paced, this book reminded me why second-chance romances can hit so hard.
The Story
Blue thought he had it all when football took center stage in his life, but he lost the one person who truly saw him: Anna. Years later, fate throws them back together in the most public way possible on the fifty-yard line, with Anna’s pop-star uncle meddling in ways only family can. What follows is a journey of reconnection, forgiveness, and rediscovery. Through flashbacks, we see how their high school love unraveled and the mistakes that haunted them. In the present, they navigate the tension of old wounds, careers that pull them apart, and the undeniable truth that they still belong to each other.
What I Loved
✔️ The dual POV seeing both Blue and Anna’s hearts laid bare.
✔️ Flashbacks that show not just the heartbreak, but the sweetness of their first love.
✔️ The balance of poignant emotion and humor (the meddling uncle scenes were golden).
✔️ Susan’s writing emotional, relatable, and layered with sincerity.
✔️ The epilogue heart-tugging and tear-inducing in the best way.
✔️ A love story that feels grounded and real, especially in the struggles of balancing love and ambition.
🎧 Narration
Narrated by Kristyna Ruth Zaharek and J.F. Harding, this audiobook truly shines. Kristyna brings Anna’s mix of vulnerability and quiet strength to life, while J.F. perfectly embodies Blue’s charm, swagger, and hidden heartbreak. Together, they add an extra emotional punch to the story, making the highs brighter and the lows even more gut-wrenching. Their performances made the characters feel so vivid that it felt less like reading and more like living their journey.
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ High School Sweethearts → Second Chance
✔️ Closed-Door Romance (all the feels without open-door steam)
✔️ Football Star MMC
✔️ Forced Proximity / Public Reunion
✔️ Dual POV with Flashbacks
✔️ Sweet, Emotional HEA
Final Thoughts
All To Pieces is a second-chance romance that doesn’t just deliver swoon-worthy moments it digs deeper into the ache of lost time and the beauty of finding your way back. Susan Henshaw has a gift for making her characters feel like real people, with flaws, humor, and hearts you can’t help but root for. Blue and Anna’s story is both tender and raw, reminding us that sometimes love doesn’t just survive distance and heartbreak it comes back stronger. A sweet, emotional, and satisfying addition to the Seddledowne series, and one that will stick with me long after the final chapter.
The Story
Blue thought he had it all when football took center stage in his life, but he lost the one person who truly saw him: Anna. Years later, fate throws them back together in the most public way possible on the fifty-yard line, with Anna’s pop-star uncle meddling in ways only family can. What follows is a journey of reconnection, forgiveness, and rediscovery. Through flashbacks, we see how their high school love unraveled and the mistakes that haunted them. In the present, they navigate the tension of old wounds, careers that pull them apart, and the undeniable truth that they still belong to each other.
What I Loved
✔️ The dual POV seeing both Blue and Anna’s hearts laid bare.
✔️ Flashbacks that show not just the heartbreak, but the sweetness of their first love.
✔️ The balance of poignant emotion and humor (the meddling uncle scenes were golden).
✔️ Susan’s writing emotional, relatable, and layered with sincerity.
✔️ The epilogue heart-tugging and tear-inducing in the best way.
✔️ A love story that feels grounded and real, especially in the struggles of balancing love and ambition.
🎧 Narration
Narrated by Kristyna Ruth Zaharek and J.F. Harding, this audiobook truly shines. Kristyna brings Anna’s mix of vulnerability and quiet strength to life, while J.F. perfectly embodies Blue’s charm, swagger, and hidden heartbreak. Together, they add an extra emotional punch to the story, making the highs brighter and the lows even more gut-wrenching. Their performances made the characters feel so vivid that it felt less like reading and more like living their journey.
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ High School Sweethearts → Second Chance
✔️ Closed-Door Romance (all the feels without open-door steam)
✔️ Football Star MMC
✔️ Forced Proximity / Public Reunion
✔️ Dual POV with Flashbacks
✔️ Sweet, Emotional HEA
Final Thoughts
All To Pieces is a second-chance romance that doesn’t just deliver swoon-worthy moments it digs deeper into the ache of lost time and the beauty of finding your way back. Susan Henshaw has a gift for making her characters feel like real people, with flaws, humor, and hearts you can’t help but root for. Blue and Anna’s story is both tender and raw, reminding us that sometimes love doesn’t just survive distance and heartbreak it comes back stronger. A sweet, emotional, and satisfying addition to the Seddledowne series, and one that will stick with me long after the final chapter.
August 10, 2025
This book was truly fantastic, taking me on an emotional rollercoaster that broke my heart, made me laugh, and ultimately left me in tears. I became so deeply invested in Anna and Blue's journey, which serves as a poignant reminder of how life can work in mysterious ways, even for characters who feel incredibly real. As someone who simply adores love stories, these two captured my heart completely.
Blue is a walking fantasy—a quarterback with a soft heart, fiercely loyal, and the kind of guy who remembers your favorite coffee order and your trauma from childhood. He honestly deserves a medal! Anna, sweet and sensitive, navigates emotional complexities with a delightful avoidance technique that had me both rooting for her and silently urging her to "just use your words."
The story beautifully exudes small-town vibes, enriched by a cast of genuinely lovable side characters. Duncle Silas and Lemon are hilariously charming, and the entire Dupree clan is fantastic. Blue's mother and brother are incredibly sweet, providing a stark contrast to his truly horrible and narcissistic father, Shane, who treats both Anna and his own son with shocking cruelty. Shane aside, the supporting cast is incredibly likable and adds immense depth to the narrative.
Told in a dual first-person POV from Anna and Blue's perspectives, the narrative offers deep insight into both their minds, crafting a sweet story with a beautiful Happily Ever After. The angsty moments will have you dramatically sighing into your couch cushions. While it was a little slow at times, I couldn't put it down, needing to know if they would finally figure things out. Their struggles and triumphs, though fictional, felt incredibly authentic.
Beyond the romance, this book is filled with so much depth. It beautifully explores what it truly takes to make a relationship work—the choices and potential sacrifices. Can people really have it all, or will they have to prioritize and decide where their heart truly lies? I have a feeling I’ll be thinking about this one for a while.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, especially as the superb narration by JF Harding and Kristyna Ruth Zaharek elevates the listening experience. Their performances truly bring the characters and their emotions to life, making the banter crackle and the emotional beats resonate deeply. This book will undoubtedly leave you emotionally spent in the best possible way.
All To Pieces is book three in the interconnected Seddledowne Series and can be read as a standalone.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Blue is a walking fantasy—a quarterback with a soft heart, fiercely loyal, and the kind of guy who remembers your favorite coffee order and your trauma from childhood. He honestly deserves a medal! Anna, sweet and sensitive, navigates emotional complexities with a delightful avoidance technique that had me both rooting for her and silently urging her to "just use your words."
The story beautifully exudes small-town vibes, enriched by a cast of genuinely lovable side characters. Duncle Silas and Lemon are hilariously charming, and the entire Dupree clan is fantastic. Blue's mother and brother are incredibly sweet, providing a stark contrast to his truly horrible and narcissistic father, Shane, who treats both Anna and his own son with shocking cruelty. Shane aside, the supporting cast is incredibly likable and adds immense depth to the narrative.
Told in a dual first-person POV from Anna and Blue's perspectives, the narrative offers deep insight into both their minds, crafting a sweet story with a beautiful Happily Ever After. The angsty moments will have you dramatically sighing into your couch cushions. While it was a little slow at times, I couldn't put it down, needing to know if they would finally figure things out. Their struggles and triumphs, though fictional, felt incredibly authentic.
Beyond the romance, this book is filled with so much depth. It beautifully explores what it truly takes to make a relationship work—the choices and potential sacrifices. Can people really have it all, or will they have to prioritize and decide where their heart truly lies? I have a feeling I’ll be thinking about this one for a while.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, especially as the superb narration by JF Harding and Kristyna Ruth Zaharek elevates the listening experience. Their performances truly bring the characters and their emotions to life, making the banter crackle and the emotional beats resonate deeply. This book will undoubtedly leave you emotionally spent in the best possible way.
All To Pieces is book three in the interconnected Seddledowne Series and can be read as a standalone.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 24, 2024
OBSESSED!!! I CANNOT EVEN!!!
Blue may be one of the best college quarterbacks in the country and can get any girl her wants, but his heart still belongs to Anna Dupree. Moving away from her is his biggest regret but there is no way she would take him back now after everything he has done.
Anna's heart broke the day Blue left and then again when they broke up. Now, four years later, she refuses to watch his football games or follow him on social media, but when her famous uncle tricks her into singing a pre-game duet at one of Blue's games, she is now face to face with the man she has never been able to forget.
What you'll love:
football romance
dual pov
second chance romance
high school sweethearts
"exchanging sweatshirts"
a good luck charm
the letter
the entire Dupree family
the swoony kisses!
healing and forgiveness
"it's always been you"
both epilogues
AND the bonus epilogue
"all to pieces"
One of my favorite contemporary romances of the year! I adored the first two books in the series and have eagerly been anticipating Anna and Blue's story and let me tell you, it DID NOT disappoint!
I completely binged this book in one sitting because I absolutely COULD NOT put it down! This book gave me ALL the feels - laughs, tears, swoon - and it was one emotional rollercoaster I would happily ride again and again.
The chemistry and tension between Anna and Blue was like fireworks and I loved watching them work through all the hurt and guilt and things left unsaid. They absolutely earned their happily ever after and oh my, that ending and the epilogues just about killed me in the best way.
This is the third book in the series but can be enjoyed as a standalone. So many great side characters and I am sooooo happy the last two Dupree siblings will all get their own story (you can already read Silas and Holden's stories!) And can I dare ask for a hockey series starring Madden in the first book?
Loved, loved, loved everything about this book and it is going to live rent free in my head for a very long time!! I don't think I will ever get enough of Anna and Blue!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
CW: mild language, kissing/makeouts, talk of waiting until marriage before intimacy, fade to black between married couple
Blue may be one of the best college quarterbacks in the country and can get any girl her wants, but his heart still belongs to Anna Dupree. Moving away from her is his biggest regret but there is no way she would take him back now after everything he has done.
Anna's heart broke the day Blue left and then again when they broke up. Now, four years later, she refuses to watch his football games or follow him on social media, but when her famous uncle tricks her into singing a pre-game duet at one of Blue's games, she is now face to face with the man she has never been able to forget.
What you'll love:
football romance
dual pov
second chance romance
high school sweethearts
"exchanging sweatshirts"
a good luck charm
the letter
the entire Dupree family
the swoony kisses!
healing and forgiveness
"it's always been you"
both epilogues
AND the bonus epilogue
"all to pieces"
One of my favorite contemporary romances of the year! I adored the first two books in the series and have eagerly been anticipating Anna and Blue's story and let me tell you, it DID NOT disappoint!
I completely binged this book in one sitting because I absolutely COULD NOT put it down! This book gave me ALL the feels - laughs, tears, swoon - and it was one emotional rollercoaster I would happily ride again and again.
The chemistry and tension between Anna and Blue was like fireworks and I loved watching them work through all the hurt and guilt and things left unsaid. They absolutely earned their happily ever after and oh my, that ending and the epilogues just about killed me in the best way.
This is the third book in the series but can be enjoyed as a standalone. So many great side characters and I am sooooo happy the last two Dupree siblings will all get their own story (you can already read Silas and Holden's stories!) And can I dare ask for a hockey series starring Madden in the first book?
Loved, loved, loved everything about this book and it is going to live rent free in my head for a very long time!! I don't think I will ever get enough of Anna and Blue!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
CW: mild language, kissing/makeouts, talk of waiting until marriage before intimacy, fade to black between married couple
September 20, 2024
3.5 ⭐️s
Trust me when I tell you this book will make you laugh and cry, break your heart and have you falling in love again. And its not just with our MCs, Anna and Blue! There are plenty of other characters that round out this story.
This was such a emotionally charged book.
If you are looking for a good cry, a heavy dose of angst and all the recklessness of true love challenged and tested at every turn, Anna and Blue will not disappoint.
All their struggle pays off with one of the cutest epilogues ever! Ends on a HEA where our MCs finally get to live out their dreams together, blissfully happy. All to pieces 💙
SAFETY INFO:
Trust me when I tell you this book will make you laugh and cry, break your heart and have you falling in love again. And its not just with our MCs, Anna and Blue! There are plenty of other characters that round out this story.
This was such a emotionally charged book.
If you are looking for a good cry, a heavy dose of angst and all the recklessness of true love challenged and tested at every turn, Anna and Blue will not disappoint.
All their struggle pays off with one of the cutest epilogues ever! Ends on a HEA where our MCs finally get to live out their dreams together, blissfully happy. All to pieces 💙
SAFETY INFO:
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