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Lenny's Bartenders #3
Back to You
After spending seven years running as far as she could from her past, Annie Mitchell is no longer recognizable as the person she used to be. The shy, quiet girl who thought she was more harm than good was replaced by a woman who isn’t afraid to be herself, no longer scared to take up the space she deserves. The only part of her past she couldn’t run away from was Luke Owens—the boy who broke her heart.
Luke Owens has spent the past seven years trying to figure out what happened the night the only girl he’s ever loved left without a trace, only to find her working at a bar he happened to walk into after months of radio silence, recognizing her on the outside but not the inside. She was different—more confident, more sure of herself, and Luke couldn’t help but want to get to know this new Annie. But, when Luke and her become co-workers, she refused to even acknowledge their past.
Years go by, and Annie won’t let Luke in—no matter how hard he tries to get over the walls she’s built—until her apartment gets broken into, and she needs a place to stay. Luke is the first to offer Annie stays with him, in hopes to use this opportunity to figure out where him and Annie went wrong and win her back once and for all.
Becoming roommates, even if it’s temporary, may just be the second chance for two people who never truly stopped loving each other. Their story is one about loving with all you have because sometimes love is worth every risk.
Luke Owens has spent the past seven years trying to figure out what happened the night the only girl he’s ever loved left without a trace, only to find her working at a bar he happened to walk into after months of radio silence, recognizing her on the outside but not the inside. She was different—more confident, more sure of herself, and Luke couldn’t help but want to get to know this new Annie. But, when Luke and her become co-workers, she refused to even acknowledge their past.
Years go by, and Annie won’t let Luke in—no matter how hard he tries to get over the walls she’s built—until her apartment gets broken into, and she needs a place to stay. Luke is the first to offer Annie stays with him, in hopes to use this opportunity to figure out where him and Annie went wrong and win her back once and for all.
Becoming roommates, even if it’s temporary, may just be the second chance for two people who never truly stopped loving each other. Their story is one about loving with all you have because sometimes love is worth every risk.
358 pages, Paperback
First published October 4, 2024
77 people are currently reading
1477 people want to read
About the author
Katy Michele
4 books143 followersKaty is the indie author based in Milwaukee. Her favorite trope is forced proximity, and she is a firm believer that found families are the best families.
Lover of all things romance, pop punk, tattoos, anime, rainy days, matcha, and her husband, Katy’s purpose for writing is to remind readers that you are deserving of the love you read about.
When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, or adding to her never-ending TBR.
Happy you’re here <33
Lover of all things romance, pop punk, tattoos, anime, rainy days, matcha, and her husband, Katy’s purpose for writing is to remind readers that you are deserving of the love you read about.
When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, or adding to her never-ending TBR.
Happy you’re here <33
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
dnf
September 30, 2024ITS NOT WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE!! 🫣 I’m just seriously not in the mood to read it right now, but I WILL come back to this. I PROMISE!!
Thank you Katy for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC but I feel soooo bad 😭😭
Thank you Katy for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC but I feel soooo bad 😭😭
March 27, 2025
DNF @ 19%
i refuse to waste another second of my life reading second chance books in which the MMC has “always loved” the FMC and “never given up on her” but still decides to sleep with other women
i refuse to waste another second of my life reading second chance books in which the MMC has “always loved” the FMC and “never given up on her” but still decides to sleep with other women
December 30, 2024
I had the amazing opportunity to beta read this book and now I just want man to name a coffee shop after me 😭
October 4, 2024
Thank you to Katy Michele for sending this ARC to me! I haven't read the other books in the series, but I really enjoyed Luke and Annie's story. Who doesn't love a good second chance book?!
Luke and Annie broke up after a fateful high school party (and a misunderstanding) and 7 years later, they're given a second chance to find love together. Both characters are unique and I appreciate the dynamic of a found family - both in each other and their friends. Luke really just wants Annie to open her heart to him again and he does his best to be patient as they figure out how to be adults and how to heal their hurt. The dynamic between Luke and Annie is sexy, sweet, and just a lot of fun... also, "hey honey" has never rocked me so deeply until this book. It's my new favorite phrase, ha.
It took me a few chapters to get into it, but I really did love their banter! Spicy scenes were fun and well-written. Overall, a fun book! Thank you again!!
Luke and Annie broke up after a fateful high school party (and a misunderstanding) and 7 years later, they're given a second chance to find love together. Both characters are unique and I appreciate the dynamic of a found family - both in each other and their friends. Luke really just wants Annie to open her heart to him again and he does his best to be patient as they figure out how to be adults and how to heal their hurt. The dynamic between Luke and Annie is sexy, sweet, and just a lot of fun... also, "hey honey" has never rocked me so deeply until this book. It's my new favorite phrase, ha.
It took me a few chapters to get into it, but I really did love their banter! Spicy scenes were fun and well-written. Overall, a fun book! Thank you again!!
September 24, 2025
INFINITY STARS !!!!!!
this book is so special to me seriously, i have been hyped for luke and annie's story since book one and i seriously could not stop sobbing reading this one. reading this AFTER reading FTA is a CHOICE bc damn it HURTTTT but reading about luke and annie falling in love again was so special, katy michele i love you and your brain, please never stop writing books bc it would make me so sad bc i love these characters and your books so much
this book is so special to me seriously, i have been hyped for luke and annie's story since book one and i seriously could not stop sobbing reading this one. reading this AFTER reading FTA is a CHOICE bc damn it HURTTTT but reading about luke and annie falling in love again was so special, katy michele i love you and your brain, please never stop writing books bc it would make me so sad bc i love these characters and your books so much
September 30, 2024
I will not accept any criticism of this book at this time. The Lenny’s Bartenders series is all found family at its finest, and Back to You *specifically* is second chance romance at its ABSOLUTE best! Luke and Annie are so precious to me, and I’m obsessed with Annie being an absolute fucking badass and Luke being a complete and total simp for her. I am feral for them and their story. 🥵
I can honestly say that this was my favorite of the three books in the series, but I loved them all. I will read every single book that Katy ever writes. That is a promise. 5 giant freaking stars.
Thank you to the author, Katy Michele, for the advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I can honestly say that this was my favorite of the three books in the series, but I loved them all. I will read every single book that Katy ever writes. That is a promise. 5 giant freaking stars.
Thank you to the author, Katy Michele, for the advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2024
Thank you Katy Michele for sending me your book!! This book was super sweet and put me right in my feels! Reading this was really touching not only for the main characters but also the side characters too. I loved seeing the friendship in this book and how each character from previous books progressed throughout each story and how their friendships evolved over time. Mia and Drew were such amazing friends to Annie. They were incredibly supportive and caring. And Annie had such an amazing character growth and it helped so much that she had such a good support system. The way it was all written was so beautiful and heartwarming. Annie was an absolute powerhouse. She is a force to be reckoned with. She is confident and is such a powerful woman who has Luke locked down real bad!! Luke was just so lover boy omg he was so cuteeeee. He is such a sweetheart and Annie is a ball of fire! I think they’re contrast each other so well. Luke knew that Annie was it for him and I love how he never stopped chasing after her. His determination to get Annie back was so adorable. He continued to show Annie that she’s worthy of unconditional love and as she grew she showed it right back to Luke. I loved all the reverse tropes!! It was super refreshing to read that the FMC was super protective and would stick up for herself and her man! There were lots of emotion present and past with the characters and how the author wrote grief was really touching and well written. My only issue with the book was that I think it was a little too long. The main couple already fixed their issues nearing page 200. They communicated and worked everything out they officially got together and the book felt like it was being dragged on which wasn’t the funnest to read because it made me slightly lose interest in story and characters. But that’s not to say I didn’t like the book. Over all the book was super lighthearted and sweet! I loved the main couple and I loved how involved all their friends were in this book!! It was a super wholesome read!
October 11, 2024
✨ black cat x golden retriever
✨ second chance
✨ it’s always been you
✨ secret tattoos
✨ forced proximity- roommates
I had the absolute pleasure to beta read this book and I feel so lucky that Katy trusted me with her baby. I fell in love with the Lenny Bartenders series earlier this year and haven’t stopped thinking about them since. I was dying to get my hands on Annie and Luke and the tension these two have had.
From childhood friends to lovers to enemies to lovers. 7 years after they first broke up we finally get to see Annie and Luke navigate their new lives as friends, and then roommates when Annie’s apartment gets broken into. I love getting to the bottom of what happened between Luke and Annie. This story is spicy, sweet, heart breaking and a well deserved happily ever after.
We have two flawed characters filled with hurt that grow into a beautiful couple and people they always deserved to have. I’m so sad to see this world ending because of everything Katy has given us. The best found family group of friends, friends turned to soulmates, men willing to do anything for their girls, and a girl group that has your back even in the deepest delusions.
Honorable mention to Annie for going after a grown man’s truck with a baseball bat for her man. We love a queen.
✨ second chance
✨ it’s always been you
✨ secret tattoos
✨ forced proximity- roommates
I had the absolute pleasure to beta read this book and I feel so lucky that Katy trusted me with her baby. I fell in love with the Lenny Bartenders series earlier this year and haven’t stopped thinking about them since. I was dying to get my hands on Annie and Luke and the tension these two have had.
From childhood friends to lovers to enemies to lovers. 7 years after they first broke up we finally get to see Annie and Luke navigate their new lives as friends, and then roommates when Annie’s apartment gets broken into. I love getting to the bottom of what happened between Luke and Annie. This story is spicy, sweet, heart breaking and a well deserved happily ever after.
We have two flawed characters filled with hurt that grow into a beautiful couple and people they always deserved to have. I’m so sad to see this world ending because of everything Katy has given us. The best found family group of friends, friends turned to soulmates, men willing to do anything for their girls, and a girl group that has your back even in the deepest delusions.
Honorable mention to Annie for going after a grown man’s truck with a baseball bat for her man. We love a queen.
October 11, 2024
3.5 stars
Thank you Katy Michele for the ARC!
One thing I’m going to say is that I love how obsessed the men in the series are for their women! We love to see it.
This was such an enjoyable read while still dealing with more sensitive/triggering topics, such as grief and bullying. As someone who relates to how small Annie felt, it was refreshing to see the strong character she turned out to be, not afraid to take up space anymore.
One of the things that has brought my rating down though was how I felt that the stories of these three books were somehow very similar. It felt like same thing but with a different font sort of thing. Maybe this is my own fault for reading the entire series back to back. And also, I just could not get past the “Annie girl” nickname. “Honey” on the other hand…
This is the third, and final, book in the Lenny’s Bartenders series and I think this was such a good way to wrap up the story of Lenny’s Crew. Seeing all of these people finally being happy after all they have gone through was exactly how I wanted this series to end.
Thank you Katy Michele for the ARC!
One thing I’m going to say is that I love how obsessed the men in the series are for their women! We love to see it.
This was such an enjoyable read while still dealing with more sensitive/triggering topics, such as grief and bullying. As someone who relates to how small Annie felt, it was refreshing to see the strong character she turned out to be, not afraid to take up space anymore.
One of the things that has brought my rating down though was how I felt that the stories of these three books were somehow very similar. It felt like same thing but with a different font sort of thing. Maybe this is my own fault for reading the entire series back to back. And also, I just could not get past the “Annie girl” nickname. “Honey” on the other hand…
This is the third, and final, book in the Lenny’s Bartenders series and I think this was such a good way to wrap up the story of Lenny’s Crew. Seeing all of these people finally being happy after all they have gone through was exactly how I wanted this series to end.
October 16, 2024
5⭐️
⚠️Book 3 of 3
Back to you is a book based around MMC Luke and FMC Annie who dated in high school but after an incident broke up only to end up working at the same bar. the one and only Lenny’s. seven years later and a broken into apartment later they are living together and everything starts to come to life.
I’m so sad that this is the last book in this lovely series. i have loved falling in love with these characters and the world around the lenny’s bartenders series. annie and luke’s story is such a good one and a perfect way to wrap up this trilogy. i will never not recommend these books to people.
⚠️Book 3 of 3
Back to you is a book based around MMC Luke and FMC Annie who dated in high school but after an incident broke up only to end up working at the same bar. the one and only Lenny’s. seven years later and a broken into apartment later they are living together and everything starts to come to life.
I’m so sad that this is the last book in this lovely series. i have loved falling in love with these characters and the world around the lenny’s bartenders series. annie and luke’s story is such a good one and a perfect way to wrap up this trilogy. i will never not recommend these books to people.
October 25, 2024
I don’t leave reviews often, I usually feel like I don’t have the skills to leave a proper review. I’ve been running through books like crazy this year (thank you Kindle Unlimited). I knew I needed to leave a review for this book because WOW I love this book. Miss Katy Michele has my heart. I can honestly say I was hooked with the first and second and could tell the third one would too. This book fully captured my heart. The growth in both Annie and Luke is immaculate! Like, chef’s kiss. I’m truly a sucker for a second chance romance and it always seems like such a hard trope to do well. I’m still going to devour them every time. I cannot wait to read about Jack in the Hey Honey Baristas series next year.
October 6, 2024
ARC 4- BACK TO YOU
Author- KATY MICHELE
Genre- Second chance, childhood besties to lovers to strangers to lovers for final, it’s always been you, Black cat girl X Golden Retriever boy, found family, miscommunication, both come from terrible families, forced proximity.
Trigger waring- Death and Bullying mentioned.
Blurb:
After spending seven years running as far as she could from her past, Annie Mitchell is no longer recognizable as the person she used to be. The shy, quiet girl who thought she was more harm than good was replaced by a woman who isn’t afraid to be herself, no longer scared to take up the space she deserves. The only part of her past she couldn’t run away from was Luke Owens—the boy who broke her heart.
Luke Owens has spent the past seven years trying to figure out what happened the night the only girl he’s ever loved left without a trace, only to find her working at a bar he happened to walk into after months of radio silence, recognizing her on the outside but not the inside. She was different—more confident, more sure of herself, and Luke couldn’t help but want to get to know this new Annie. But, when Luke and her become co-workers, she refused to even acknowledge their past.
Years go by, and Annie won’t let Luke in—no matter how hard he tries to get over the walls she’s built—until her apartment gets broken into, and she needs a place to stay. Luke is the first to offer Annie stays with him, in hopes to use this opportunity to figure out where him and Annie went wrong and win her back once and for all.
Becoming roommates, even if it’s temporary, may just be the second chance for two people who never truly stopped loving each other. Their story is one about loving with all you have because sometimes love is worth every risk.
Plot:
Vivian Mitchell, better known as Annie has known Luke since the age of 6, when he first became her bench mate. They moved on to become best friends. Move on to high school and they become a couple. Until, they weren’t when Annie disappeared from Luke’s life after Grant’s party for 4 months- only to be found as a bartender at the bar across their hometown. However, she was no longer the Annie Luke knew. Gone was the shy, quite Annie who barely spoke a word, who cowered in front of people, got bullied, was naive and never shared her problems because she always considered herself to be a burden, a waste of space. Instead, in her place was a strong, bold, fierce and confident woman who spoke her mind, didn’t mince words and was ready for a fight. She didn’t let people in because letting them in gave them the opportunity to exploit her. Gone was the girl who loved Luke, in her place was a woman determined to avoid him.
Since the age of six, Luke Owens was sure about one thing- Annie was his, he would marry her when they grow up, his best friend, his everything. Things were not pleasant back home, it was difficult for him regarding his parents. Still, he saw the silver lining in life, along with his two elder brothers and his Annie girl. Things changed after Grant’s party, the cause unknown to him. After four months of radio silence form Annie, he finds her, working as a bartender at a bar, LENNY’S, across town. But, while it was Annie on the outside, it wasn’t her on the inside. He had come there for a job, finding the new Annie was a total shock to the system. What added more to the shock was how she completely cut him off. He tried a lot but Annie simply refused to tell him or even acknowledge their past. Luke knew her, something had happened which led to this. Realising that he wont be able to get the answers like this, he decided to make Annie fall in love with him all over again.
Fast forward 7 years, the boy, now a young man is yet to bring down the walls Annie built. She does the exact opposite he says. She retorts him every time he flirts. She gets annoyed at him. He manages to bring out a reaction, a rise from her. But, whenever he tries to bring up their past, she closes up like a clam.
Their friends they made over the years spent at Lenny’s suspected something but never crossed the line.
Spending time with Luke with his easy grin, golden retriever smile, sunshine and always seeing the positive personality is difficult. Their past very much present in her head, his betrayal still fresh makes it worse. The question- “Why did Luke cheat on her, with her best friend”, kept haunting her. But she never confronted him. Hating him was hard because she never really stopped loving him.
Apparently 7th year’s the charm because Luke gets a big break. Annie’s apartment get’s broken into. Hence, she needs a place to stay. Luke seizes the opportunity and brings Annie to his house. The arrangement is temporary for her but temporarily temporary for him. He is determined to make her fall for him all over again. Annie is put in a complete turmoil, dancing around her feeling for Luke which she keeps tampering them form time to time. She had realised long time back that she could never cut him out from her life. So a safe distance it is. But, everyday spent with him, his actions, his words, everything makes her resolve crumble bit by bit. Her decision to put a full stop to the back-&-forth dance between them by telling him everything that happened and getting the closure they both needed vanishes. Just as she thinks that maybe they can get their second shot, instances, mainly people who are the reason why they are at this situation arrive. This causes her to finally break down.
Much to their horror, Luke doesn’t remember what happened before the fateful night- he was completely drunk. This however reveals something important as the fog starts fading after 7 long years.
Was Luke really to blame that night?
Did he cheat on her?
What do they get- closure or a second shot?
Even if they get their second shot, does their ship finally sail forever or sink for good, giving in view to the upcoming challenges they face?
Review:
I knew this book was a banger the moment I read the blurb and prologue. With great happiness I now confirm it.
I devoured it in two and a half days. Everything about the book struck gold. Easy five, hands down. When I was done with it, there was a wide smile plastered. I was extremely happy and simultaneously calm.
It’s a HEA. The first part of the book is really intense- with all the back and forth bickering, the tension, the anxiety. The fact that we readers know something as we read in Annie’s POV but Luke doesn’t know it keeps us on toes- when will he know!! There is a lot to love about the book. It’s pace is gradual. As often seen in many books, once the couple gets together but, we are just halfway through the book, something extremely tragic and/or dramatic has to occur. It wasn’t the case in this book. The pace of the second part, on contrary to the first was gradual, soothing. Yes, tragedy did strike. But, it didn’t shoot up our adrenaline as it happens in other cases.
Luke and Annie’s relation evolved- it became stronger. They both evolved individually grew and became their better self. We get to learn a lot form their relation.
The first is TRUST- friendship, trust and respect are the basis for any form of relation, be it between friends, lovers, colleagues or children. School girl Annie shattered when she saw the video of Luke CHEATING on her. In reality, he didn’t. But she didn’t trust him. Yes, that was the final straw which made her change into the strong woman she became but still, the regret she felt after she got to know the entire truth was eating her whole.
Second is COMMUNICATION- in every book review I have posted, I have mentioned how vital communication is. And it’s true! Annie was extremely hurt and scared. Hence, she didn’t even talk to Luke about it, not even to her friends. Luke also never told his friends about it. Only when they spoke about, did clarity strike. Communication clears the fog.
Next is NEVER GIVING UP- If you love someone, prove it, earn it, work for it because the rewards are for eternity. Luke never gave up, be it about life or his Annie girl. He was determined to get to the bottom of what went wrong AND, make Annie fall in love with him all over again. It went on for 7 years!!! Someone else in his place would have given up. Thats not love. Love needs work, dedication and maintenance. It is worth it. Luke taught us that. He never gave up on life, always seeing the silver lining and moving ahead.
Last, but not the least is SOME RISKS ARE WORTH IT- Loving someone is risky, with several ups and downs and What Ifs at every bend and corner of the road. But, if you do it right, it’s oh so worth it. Loving the right person will bring out the best in you. Annie was on the risk of breaking down completely given her past. But, she took the risk, worked for it and… she won. They both did…..they were it, even if they had a long detour.
LUKE OWENS- our Bartender 🥃
Luke Owens is a MMC that every reader will fall for, guaranteed. He’s literally too good. He has the sunshine golden retriever personality, always seeing the silver lining in the sky despite how bad things are and, move on with his ever ready smile. But the guy is determined to the core. He was hurt, but he didn’t give up on Annie. He pursued her, flirted with her, did everything possible while giving her space simultaneously for 7 long years. Anyone else would have left her long time back. But not him. Dearest gentle reader- that is a man and that is true love, why come back when never leave. His parents were not worthy of the title, his elder brothers were his parents. He has his fair share of family drama. Still, he chose to become a lawyer because he wanted to be worthy, he wanted his father’s attention and acceptance. For that, he threw away his hockey scholarship. That was hard for him. Nevertheless, he did it. Good thing that he gets to do what he wanted to in life at the end. He is the example of strength and determination entwined. Words are not enough to justify his character.
ANNIE- our Honey 🥼
We introduce Annie Mitchell to the hall of strong FMC because she is. Her own parents told her repeatedly that she was a waste of space, never wanted. School Annie was quite, shy theatre girl. She never spoke her mind. She would cower in front of people. She was also severely bullied at high school. That ended when her heart broke into pieces. Gone was that girl and her in place was a strong, bold, fierce young woman who didn’t cower, spoke her mind, wouldn’t hesitate to throw a punch and showed people their place- not to cross their line. However, she had built up extremely high walls and kept people at a distance, be it her friends, be it Luke. The thought that she was a burden was still engraved. She couldn’t trust. You can’t blame her. Some readers will have the urge to judge her. You need to understand form where she comes. Besides, she makes it up to him. She finally lets go of the past and completely blooms. The way she changed herself, built herself is something we all need to inculcate. Hats off….
This was the first book I read written by Katy Michele. Safe to say its definitely not my last. Thank you so much for the opportunity of ARC. Eagerly waiting for the next series, the Hey Honey series.
Author- KATY MICHELE
Genre- Second chance, childhood besties to lovers to strangers to lovers for final, it’s always been you, Black cat girl X Golden Retriever boy, found family, miscommunication, both come from terrible families, forced proximity.
Trigger waring- Death and Bullying mentioned.
Blurb:
After spending seven years running as far as she could from her past, Annie Mitchell is no longer recognizable as the person she used to be. The shy, quiet girl who thought she was more harm than good was replaced by a woman who isn’t afraid to be herself, no longer scared to take up the space she deserves. The only part of her past she couldn’t run away from was Luke Owens—the boy who broke her heart.
Luke Owens has spent the past seven years trying to figure out what happened the night the only girl he’s ever loved left without a trace, only to find her working at a bar he happened to walk into after months of radio silence, recognizing her on the outside but not the inside. She was different—more confident, more sure of herself, and Luke couldn’t help but want to get to know this new Annie. But, when Luke and her become co-workers, she refused to even acknowledge their past.
Years go by, and Annie won’t let Luke in—no matter how hard he tries to get over the walls she’s built—until her apartment gets broken into, and she needs a place to stay. Luke is the first to offer Annie stays with him, in hopes to use this opportunity to figure out where him and Annie went wrong and win her back once and for all.
Becoming roommates, even if it’s temporary, may just be the second chance for two people who never truly stopped loving each other. Their story is one about loving with all you have because sometimes love is worth every risk.
Plot:
Vivian Mitchell, better known as Annie has known Luke since the age of 6, when he first became her bench mate. They moved on to become best friends. Move on to high school and they become a couple. Until, they weren’t when Annie disappeared from Luke’s life after Grant’s party for 4 months- only to be found as a bartender at the bar across their hometown. However, she was no longer the Annie Luke knew. Gone was the shy, quite Annie who barely spoke a word, who cowered in front of people, got bullied, was naive and never shared her problems because she always considered herself to be a burden, a waste of space. Instead, in her place was a strong, bold, fierce and confident woman who spoke her mind, didn’t mince words and was ready for a fight. She didn’t let people in because letting them in gave them the opportunity to exploit her. Gone was the girl who loved Luke, in her place was a woman determined to avoid him.
Since the age of six, Luke Owens was sure about one thing- Annie was his, he would marry her when they grow up, his best friend, his everything. Things were not pleasant back home, it was difficult for him regarding his parents. Still, he saw the silver lining in life, along with his two elder brothers and his Annie girl. Things changed after Grant’s party, the cause unknown to him. After four months of radio silence form Annie, he finds her, working as a bartender at a bar, LENNY’S, across town. But, while it was Annie on the outside, it wasn’t her on the inside. He had come there for a job, finding the new Annie was a total shock to the system. What added more to the shock was how she completely cut him off. He tried a lot but Annie simply refused to tell him or even acknowledge their past. Luke knew her, something had happened which led to this. Realising that he wont be able to get the answers like this, he decided to make Annie fall in love with him all over again.
Fast forward 7 years, the boy, now a young man is yet to bring down the walls Annie built. She does the exact opposite he says. She retorts him every time he flirts. She gets annoyed at him. He manages to bring out a reaction, a rise from her. But, whenever he tries to bring up their past, she closes up like a clam.
Their friends they made over the years spent at Lenny’s suspected something but never crossed the line.
Spending time with Luke with his easy grin, golden retriever smile, sunshine and always seeing the positive personality is difficult. Their past very much present in her head, his betrayal still fresh makes it worse. The question- “Why did Luke cheat on her, with her best friend”, kept haunting her. But she never confronted him. Hating him was hard because she never really stopped loving him.
Apparently 7th year’s the charm because Luke gets a big break. Annie’s apartment get’s broken into. Hence, she needs a place to stay. Luke seizes the opportunity and brings Annie to his house. The arrangement is temporary for her but temporarily temporary for him. He is determined to make her fall for him all over again. Annie is put in a complete turmoil, dancing around her feeling for Luke which she keeps tampering them form time to time. She had realised long time back that she could never cut him out from her life. So a safe distance it is. But, everyday spent with him, his actions, his words, everything makes her resolve crumble bit by bit. Her decision to put a full stop to the back-&-forth dance between them by telling him everything that happened and getting the closure they both needed vanishes. Just as she thinks that maybe they can get their second shot, instances, mainly people who are the reason why they are at this situation arrive. This causes her to finally break down.
Much to their horror, Luke doesn’t remember what happened before the fateful night- he was completely drunk. This however reveals something important as the fog starts fading after 7 long years.
Was Luke really to blame that night?
Did he cheat on her?
What do they get- closure or a second shot?
Even if they get their second shot, does their ship finally sail forever or sink for good, giving in view to the upcoming challenges they face?
Review:
I knew this book was a banger the moment I read the blurb and prologue. With great happiness I now confirm it.
I devoured it in two and a half days. Everything about the book struck gold. Easy five, hands down. When I was done with it, there was a wide smile plastered. I was extremely happy and simultaneously calm.
It’s a HEA. The first part of the book is really intense- with all the back and forth bickering, the tension, the anxiety. The fact that we readers know something as we read in Annie’s POV but Luke doesn’t know it keeps us on toes- when will he know!! There is a lot to love about the book. It’s pace is gradual. As often seen in many books, once the couple gets together but, we are just halfway through the book, something extremely tragic and/or dramatic has to occur. It wasn’t the case in this book. The pace of the second part, on contrary to the first was gradual, soothing. Yes, tragedy did strike. But, it didn’t shoot up our adrenaline as it happens in other cases.
Luke and Annie’s relation evolved- it became stronger. They both evolved individually grew and became their better self. We get to learn a lot form their relation.
The first is TRUST- friendship, trust and respect are the basis for any form of relation, be it between friends, lovers, colleagues or children. School girl Annie shattered when she saw the video of Luke CHEATING on her. In reality, he didn’t. But she didn’t trust him. Yes, that was the final straw which made her change into the strong woman she became but still, the regret she felt after she got to know the entire truth was eating her whole.
Second is COMMUNICATION- in every book review I have posted, I have mentioned how vital communication is. And it’s true! Annie was extremely hurt and scared. Hence, she didn’t even talk to Luke about it, not even to her friends. Luke also never told his friends about it. Only when they spoke about, did clarity strike. Communication clears the fog.
Next is NEVER GIVING UP- If you love someone, prove it, earn it, work for it because the rewards are for eternity. Luke never gave up, be it about life or his Annie girl. He was determined to get to the bottom of what went wrong AND, make Annie fall in love with him all over again. It went on for 7 years!!! Someone else in his place would have given up. Thats not love. Love needs work, dedication and maintenance. It is worth it. Luke taught us that. He never gave up on life, always seeing the silver lining and moving ahead.
Last, but not the least is SOME RISKS ARE WORTH IT- Loving someone is risky, with several ups and downs and What Ifs at every bend and corner of the road. But, if you do it right, it’s oh so worth it. Loving the right person will bring out the best in you. Annie was on the risk of breaking down completely given her past. But, she took the risk, worked for it and… she won. They both did…..they were it, even if they had a long detour.
LUKE OWENS- our Bartender 🥃
Luke Owens is a MMC that every reader will fall for, guaranteed. He’s literally too good. He has the sunshine golden retriever personality, always seeing the silver lining in the sky despite how bad things are and, move on with his ever ready smile. But the guy is determined to the core. He was hurt, but he didn’t give up on Annie. He pursued her, flirted with her, did everything possible while giving her space simultaneously for 7 long years. Anyone else would have left her long time back. But not him. Dearest gentle reader- that is a man and that is true love, why come back when never leave. His parents were not worthy of the title, his elder brothers were his parents. He has his fair share of family drama. Still, he chose to become a lawyer because he wanted to be worthy, he wanted his father’s attention and acceptance. For that, he threw away his hockey scholarship. That was hard for him. Nevertheless, he did it. Good thing that he gets to do what he wanted to in life at the end. He is the example of strength and determination entwined. Words are not enough to justify his character.
ANNIE- our Honey 🥼
We introduce Annie Mitchell to the hall of strong FMC because she is. Her own parents told her repeatedly that she was a waste of space, never wanted. School Annie was quite, shy theatre girl. She never spoke her mind. She would cower in front of people. She was also severely bullied at high school. That ended when her heart broke into pieces. Gone was that girl and her in place was a strong, bold, fierce young woman who didn’t cower, spoke her mind, wouldn’t hesitate to throw a punch and showed people their place- not to cross their line. However, she had built up extremely high walls and kept people at a distance, be it her friends, be it Luke. The thought that she was a burden was still engraved. She couldn’t trust. You can’t blame her. Some readers will have the urge to judge her. You need to understand form where she comes. Besides, she makes it up to him. She finally lets go of the past and completely blooms. The way she changed herself, built herself is something we all need to inculcate. Hats off….
This was the first book I read written by Katy Michele. Safe to say its definitely not my last. Thank you so much for the opportunity of ARC. Eagerly waiting for the next series, the Hey Honey series.
October 4, 2024
I was gifted an arc
“Damn, honey. Crazy looks good on you,”~Luke Owens.
Perfect for second-chance romance readers.
Annie spent her whole life trying to hide, so when she finally steps for
Running from her past is what Annie is good at, She's done it for seven years and in those years she's become a woman her past wouldn't recognise. The only flaw in her plan is Luke, her cute ex who is still a little in love with her and will stop at nothing to prove he deserves her love again.
I really enjoyed this book!
I loved meeting the Lenny's crew and falling in love with them. I hadn't read Giving Me Butterflies or Crash & Burn and even though this book is described as could be read on its own, I was a little nervous about starting from book three, however, I didn't feel like I couldn't understand things nice.
Because I hadn't read the previous two books I went into this one a bit blind, however, I found myself hooked from chapter one.
The writing was amazing and the story incredible. I loved the romance, and how it was a bit of a slow burn, but it didn't stop once things started!
I really enjoyed the friendship between The Lenny's crew, how they were willing to do anything for each other and always knew how to cheer someone up.
I like that we got a small glimpse of what Annie's characteristics were like as a teenager before being introduced to this fierce woman who didn't take anything from anyone.
She had been through so much and it had shaped her into a strong woman who knew what she wanted and how she would get it.
I liked Luke's determination to show Annie how much he cared, he was struggling with his own problems throughout the book but never missed a chance to show, or tell, Annie that she was incredible!
Seeing Luke stand up to people in his life who have always looked down on him was amazing, in that moment he was strong and unbreakable.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and will be going to read books 1 & 2.
“Damn, honey. Crazy looks good on you,”~Luke Owens.
Perfect for second-chance romance readers.
Annie spent her whole life trying to hide, so when she finally steps for
Running from her past is what Annie is good at, She's done it for seven years and in those years she's become a woman her past wouldn't recognise. The only flaw in her plan is Luke, her cute ex who is still a little in love with her and will stop at nothing to prove he deserves her love again.
I really enjoyed this book!
I loved meeting the Lenny's crew and falling in love with them. I hadn't read Giving Me Butterflies or Crash & Burn and even though this book is described as could be read on its own, I was a little nervous about starting from book three, however, I didn't feel like I couldn't understand things nice.
Because I hadn't read the previous two books I went into this one a bit blind, however, I found myself hooked from chapter one.
The writing was amazing and the story incredible. I loved the romance, and how it was a bit of a slow burn, but it didn't stop once things started!
I really enjoyed the friendship between The Lenny's crew, how they were willing to do anything for each other and always knew how to cheer someone up.
I like that we got a small glimpse of what Annie's characteristics were like as a teenager before being introduced to this fierce woman who didn't take anything from anyone.
She had been through so much and it had shaped her into a strong woman who knew what she wanted and how she would get it.
I liked Luke's determination to show Annie how much he cared, he was struggling with his own problems throughout the book but never missed a chance to show, or tell, Annie that she was incredible!
Seeing Luke stand up to people in his life who have always looked down on him was amazing, in that moment he was strong and unbreakable.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and will be going to read books 1 & 2.
October 5, 2024
First of all thank you Katy Michele for providing me with the arc in return for an honest review.
Now be ready for the rants!!!!
The story was a second chance romance and anyone who knows me would know that I don't read a lot of second chances but this damn!!!! This book kept me hooked to it from the start to the very end. It was a second chance romance and was not a disappointment at all!!! I will be completely honest this was my first book of the author and I am really thinking about all the time before I didn't read her cause what the hell was I even thinking. To be more serious I was hooked to the book just after the dedication cause for the "black cat girlies' needing a "golden retriever who worships me" yeah why don't you give it to me already.
Luke and Annie are amazing and there is no doubt in that. The black cat and golden retriever energy of them just kept me giggling throughout the book and their banters had me kicking my feet.....at this point I think romance books are the only ones who get the best reactions out of me.....
The book felt so real and genuine that you can feel every emotion, every push and pull, the tension, the pain....all of it while reading it..... it isn't all sunshine and rainbows, it has it's own midnight rains and darkness. If we talk about Lenny's crew we can also say it has a found family trope cause they were more of a family to each other than their real families. I love how we can see the characters growing throughout the book. In terms of words the book was absolutely amazing...... the plot, story line, characters, romance everything was just top notch.
Her writing??? Do I really have to say anything after ranting this much.... The writing was beautiful....you could seriously feel the emotions out the pages (even though I was reading through the pdf....just understand the emotion people). As this was the very first book of mine from the author I can see in the near future reading all of her books. She has given the book everything and you should definitely read it.
Now I should stop ranting cause I don't want to give you guys a spoiler....so all my black cat energy girls go read this cause you are definitely going to love it.
Now be ready for the rants!!!!
The story was a second chance romance and anyone who knows me would know that I don't read a lot of second chances but this damn!!!! This book kept me hooked to it from the start to the very end. It was a second chance romance and was not a disappointment at all!!! I will be completely honest this was my first book of the author and I am really thinking about all the time before I didn't read her cause what the hell was I even thinking. To be more serious I was hooked to the book just after the dedication cause for the "black cat girlies' needing a "golden retriever who worships me" yeah why don't you give it to me already.
Luke and Annie are amazing and there is no doubt in that. The black cat and golden retriever energy of them just kept me giggling throughout the book and their banters had me kicking my feet.....at this point I think romance books are the only ones who get the best reactions out of me.....
The book felt so real and genuine that you can feel every emotion, every push and pull, the tension, the pain....all of it while reading it..... it isn't all sunshine and rainbows, it has it's own midnight rains and darkness. If we talk about Lenny's crew we can also say it has a found family trope cause they were more of a family to each other than their real families. I love how we can see the characters growing throughout the book. In terms of words the book was absolutely amazing...... the plot, story line, characters, romance everything was just top notch.
Her writing??? Do I really have to say anything after ranting this much.... The writing was beautiful....you could seriously feel the emotions out the pages (even though I was reading through the pdf....just understand the emotion people). As this was the very first book of mine from the author I can see in the near future reading all of her books. She has given the book everything and you should definitely read it.
Now I should stop ranting cause I don't want to give you guys a spoiler....so all my black cat energy girls go read this cause you are definitely going to love it.
September 24, 2024
4.5
If you love someone let them go, and if they come back they were always meant to be. Not everyone gets a second chance to love the person they know they were meant to be with, but when you get that chance you never let it go. Luke and Annie are the perfect second chance romance.
The banter, tension and pining/yearning between Luke and Annie was amazing. You could feel Luke’s love for Annie throughout every interaction, whether it was just existing in her space or trying to help her out. Annie’s love though a lot subtler and quiet than Luke’s was also there throughout the story, even if she doesn’t want to admit it.
Luke our MMC is the perfect golden retriever boy. He is sunshine personified for many of the characters. Watching him grow and become the man he is supposed to be throughout this book was so genuine and honest. Seeing him prove to Annie over and over that he wanted to be there for her even when she was pushing him away shows his love for her.
Annie our FMC is definitely a black cat. Watching her grow into her confidence and learn that she can be strong without having to push everyone away was raw and real. Annie has been through so much and seeing her relationships with her friends grow throughout the book was beautiful. She is strong, brave and deserving of so much even if she doesn’t always believe it.
Getting to witness the growth of Luke and Annie’s relationship, felt like watching two friends finally find themselves again. When they finally connected it was like coming home. Luke’s constant observations of Annie and his ability to know her better than she knows herself was so great. Annie’s need to defend Luke even if he doesn’t need it was so much fun to watch. These two are a beautiful disaster, wrapped up in a perfect pair.
Sad that the Lenny’s Bar series is over but I cannot wait to read more of Katy’s work!
If you love someone let them go, and if they come back they were always meant to be. Not everyone gets a second chance to love the person they know they were meant to be with, but when you get that chance you never let it go. Luke and Annie are the perfect second chance romance.
The banter, tension and pining/yearning between Luke and Annie was amazing. You could feel Luke’s love for Annie throughout every interaction, whether it was just existing in her space or trying to help her out. Annie’s love though a lot subtler and quiet than Luke’s was also there throughout the story, even if she doesn’t want to admit it.
Luke our MMC is the perfect golden retriever boy. He is sunshine personified for many of the characters. Watching him grow and become the man he is supposed to be throughout this book was so genuine and honest. Seeing him prove to Annie over and over that he wanted to be there for her even when she was pushing him away shows his love for her.
Annie our FMC is definitely a black cat. Watching her grow into her confidence and learn that she can be strong without having to push everyone away was raw and real. Annie has been through so much and seeing her relationships with her friends grow throughout the book was beautiful. She is strong, brave and deserving of so much even if she doesn’t always believe it.
Getting to witness the growth of Luke and Annie’s relationship, felt like watching two friends finally find themselves again. When they finally connected it was like coming home. Luke’s constant observations of Annie and his ability to know her better than she knows herself was so great. Annie’s need to defend Luke even if he doesn’t need it was so much fun to watch. These two are a beautiful disaster, wrapped up in a perfect pair.
Sad that the Lenny’s Bar series is over but I cannot wait to read more of Katy’s work!
September 30, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Back To You
Thank you so much to the author for letting me read the ARC of this book, it was an absolute beauty of a book!
Annie spent so much of her life growing up feeling small, hiding and suffering through bullying. When her ‘friends’ laugh in the face of her heartbreak, she decides she is done being small, she wants to be loud and unafraid now. When she lands a job at Lenny’s, the last thing she wants is the boy who broke her heart to work with her. Luke never understood why she left without a word, why they broke up and why this Annie he works with is nothing like the Annie he knew. Desperate for her trust and love again, Luke vows to never rest until Annie loves him again.
I loved this book so much. I loved Annie’s character; she is such a badass who refuses to be walked all over, she is terrifying in the best way and has her own back. Luke is a ‘golden retriever’ he lusts and pines after Annie, always teasing, hoping one day her walls will crumble.
With their history, the two main characters have an underlying angst and tension between them. Communication is a big part of their issue, and it takes them a while to get to where they need to be.
The writing was impeccable, it was so easy to follow and I thoroughly enjoyed the pace of the book. I laughed, I teared up during the sad moments and I was so proud of the development in these fictional characters.
This book broke my 9 day book slump, and if that doesn’t say how amazing this book is, I’m not sure what will!
This is part of a series, so make sure you read the others too!
Some of the content some may find difficult, so along with it being an adult only book, please check your trigger warnings!
Back To You
Thank you so much to the author for letting me read the ARC of this book, it was an absolute beauty of a book!
Annie spent so much of her life growing up feeling small, hiding and suffering through bullying. When her ‘friends’ laugh in the face of her heartbreak, she decides she is done being small, she wants to be loud and unafraid now. When she lands a job at Lenny’s, the last thing she wants is the boy who broke her heart to work with her. Luke never understood why she left without a word, why they broke up and why this Annie he works with is nothing like the Annie he knew. Desperate for her trust and love again, Luke vows to never rest until Annie loves him again.
I loved this book so much. I loved Annie’s character; she is such a badass who refuses to be walked all over, she is terrifying in the best way and has her own back. Luke is a ‘golden retriever’ he lusts and pines after Annie, always teasing, hoping one day her walls will crumble.
With their history, the two main characters have an underlying angst and tension between them. Communication is a big part of their issue, and it takes them a while to get to where they need to be.
The writing was impeccable, it was so easy to follow and I thoroughly enjoyed the pace of the book. I laughed, I teared up during the sad moments and I was so proud of the development in these fictional characters.
This book broke my 9 day book slump, and if that doesn’t say how amazing this book is, I’m not sure what will!
This is part of a series, so make sure you read the others too!
Some of the content some may find difficult, so along with it being an adult only book, please check your trigger warnings!
October 2, 2024
"They say if you love someone, you let them go. If they come back, they are always yours. If they don't, they never were."
Its the best line in the book.
Back to You by Katy Michele is a beautiful and heartfelt second-chance romance that will tug at your emotions from beginning to end.
The real heart of the story is Annie's growth. She changes from a young girl with deep scars of the past into a woman that learns how to reclaim her power. It's empowering and heartbreaking at the same time, as she slowly discovers her voice after years of her pain silencing her. Her love for Luke is still there, quiet yet undeniable, and it's easy to see that her reluctance stems from a place of fear rather than lack of emotion.
On the other hand, Luke is the epitome of the golden retriever character: loyal, loving, and never giving up on Annie. He really showed patience, understanding, and love that she so desperately needed even at the times when she was pushing him away. His growth is equally impressive, evolving from a boy who once didn't fully comprehend the depth of their relationship to a man who is ready to fight for her.
The chemistry between them is evident on every page. It's clear that Luke knows Annie better than she knows herself, and his constant support, even when she doesn't want it, makes their love story feel so genuine and not transactional.
IMO, this book isn't all about love-it's about healing and learning that sometimes it is the one you need the most.
Its the best line in the book.
Back to You by Katy Michele is a beautiful and heartfelt second-chance romance that will tug at your emotions from beginning to end.
The real heart of the story is Annie's growth. She changes from a young girl with deep scars of the past into a woman that learns how to reclaim her power. It's empowering and heartbreaking at the same time, as she slowly discovers her voice after years of her pain silencing her. Her love for Luke is still there, quiet yet undeniable, and it's easy to see that her reluctance stems from a place of fear rather than lack of emotion.
On the other hand, Luke is the epitome of the golden retriever character: loyal, loving, and never giving up on Annie. He really showed patience, understanding, and love that she so desperately needed even at the times when she was pushing him away. His growth is equally impressive, evolving from a boy who once didn't fully comprehend the depth of their relationship to a man who is ready to fight for her.
The chemistry between them is evident on every page. It's clear that Luke knows Annie better than she knows herself, and his constant support, even when she doesn't want it, makes their love story feel so genuine and not transactional.
IMO, this book isn't all about love-it's about healing and learning that sometimes it is the one you need the most.
October 4, 2024
“When you love someone, you let them go. If they come back, they were always yours. If they don’t, they never were. That’s what all good romance movies and books always say. They remind you that love is always enough.
But what about when it isn’t?”
“Asking me to forget her was like asking me to forget how to breathe.”
The final book in the Lenny’s Bartenders series definitely lives up to the previous books in the series with it’s heartbreaking moments and difficult topics mixed beautifully with humorous banter and one of the most beautiful found families I have ever had the pleasure of reading. This one is a second chance, forced proximity romance where the MCs were high school sweethearts that have now been separated for 7 years. Luke has no idea what happened to cause the breakup and even though they are coworkers and share a friend group, Annie has been very effective at keeping him at arms length all these years. That is, until a break in at her apartment leaves her with no place to stay and Luke offers up the spare bedroom in his apartment. I definitely cried multiple times as these two worked through their issues, not only with each other, but within their own personal lives as well. I had been wondering what happened between these two since the very first book and watching these characters grow was really beautiful, and the support they receive from their friends along the way really brings it all together. I can’t wait to read the first book of the spin-off series, Hey Honey’s Baristas!
“Life truly is too short to not chase after the things we want or hold on to things that try to hold us back. Especially when that thing holding you back is yourself.”
But what about when it isn’t?”
“Asking me to forget her was like asking me to forget how to breathe.”
The final book in the Lenny’s Bartenders series definitely lives up to the previous books in the series with it’s heartbreaking moments and difficult topics mixed beautifully with humorous banter and one of the most beautiful found families I have ever had the pleasure of reading. This one is a second chance, forced proximity romance where the MCs were high school sweethearts that have now been separated for 7 years. Luke has no idea what happened to cause the breakup and even though they are coworkers and share a friend group, Annie has been very effective at keeping him at arms length all these years. That is, until a break in at her apartment leaves her with no place to stay and Luke offers up the spare bedroom in his apartment. I definitely cried multiple times as these two worked through their issues, not only with each other, but within their own personal lives as well. I had been wondering what happened between these two since the very first book and watching these characters grow was really beautiful, and the support they receive from their friends along the way really brings it all together. I can’t wait to read the first book of the spin-off series, Hey Honey’s Baristas!
“Life truly is too short to not chase after the things we want or hold on to things that try to hold us back. Especially when that thing holding you back is yourself.”
September 5, 2024
Alpha Reader review! ✨ These thoughts are entirely my own 🫶🏻
Where to begin? Let me start here- I love this story.
I've read all of Katy's books now and each one I can see her writing grow and become stronger. The story of Annie and Luke is one that reaches deep into my heart because I resonate so much with their struggles and their journey 🌹🩵
The Lenny's crew holds such a special place in my soul because it's reminded me that family can look different than what we expect. I love the overlapping friendships, the bonds they share, and how they always rise to support one another. There was no shortage of that in this book 🥹
The way Katy handles Annie as a black cat fmc, is so gracefully, that we truly see Annie as someone who is guarded and hurt, not just someone who's immature or rude. I was really grateful for that representation as well because I think black cat fmc's can get a lot of hate for simply being misunderstood. Luke's golden retriever attitude was the perfect balance, while also being a character who had his struggles and needed to grow in himself too.
Please check the TW, as always this is a story that touches on topics that are considered sensitive, but also are so important to discuss and carry conversation around!
Add this to your TBR!! ASAP!!
--
I'm so proud of you, Katy. You have such a gift and talent, and the world is better for you sharing it with all of us.
Xx, Elle
Where to begin? Let me start here- I love this story.
I've read all of Katy's books now and each one I can see her writing grow and become stronger. The story of Annie and Luke is one that reaches deep into my heart because I resonate so much with their struggles and their journey 🌹🩵
The Lenny's crew holds such a special place in my soul because it's reminded me that family can look different than what we expect. I love the overlapping friendships, the bonds they share, and how they always rise to support one another. There was no shortage of that in this book 🥹
The way Katy handles Annie as a black cat fmc, is so gracefully, that we truly see Annie as someone who is guarded and hurt, not just someone who's immature or rude. I was really grateful for that representation as well because I think black cat fmc's can get a lot of hate for simply being misunderstood. Luke's golden retriever attitude was the perfect balance, while also being a character who had his struggles and needed to grow in himself too.
Please check the TW, as always this is a story that touches on topics that are considered sensitive, but also are so important to discuss and carry conversation around!
Add this to your TBR!! ASAP!!
--
I'm so proud of you, Katy. You have such a gift and talent, and the world is better for you sharing it with all of us.
Xx, Elle
October 11, 2024
Y'all, the wait for Back to You is overrr 🩵🩵🩵
After devouring the first two books, I’ve been counting the days for this second-chance romance between a black cat and her golden retriever ex-boyfriend. Annie’s got that fierce, stabby girl energy 🔪, while Luke is the soft, feminist, ‘let me just worship you’ golden retriever we all deserve.
First off, the found family trope in this series? PERFECTION. I love how Katy teases us with glimpses of past and future characters like it’s some literary soap opera. I’m over here like, ‘Yes, please, gimme more!’ 🤌✨
Now, let's talk dedication: ‘To my black cat girlies who need a golden retriever who worships the ground you walk on but knows how to handle you too. Luke Owens is for you.’ UMMM, YES! Annie and Luke’s angst was on another level. The way they struggled with their baggage but still navigated old flames gave le all the feels. Annie’s insecurities, I felt that in my SOUL ❤️🩹.
Luke, this man is so soft, so patient, and just knows when to push and when to give space. Basically, Katy created the perfect snuggle-buddy with bonus empathy points 🩵.
Massive shoutout to @authorkatymichele for blessing me with an ARC ... again (seriously, you’re THE shit). Lenny’s Bartenders were great, but I am already counting down to 2025 for the Hey Honey’s Baristas series!
🚨🚨 PSA: We’re 10 months into 2024, and Crush & Burn is still living rent-free in my mind and heart. It’s an all-time fave, forever iconic ❤️🔥.
After devouring the first two books, I’ve been counting the days for this second-chance romance between a black cat and her golden retriever ex-boyfriend. Annie’s got that fierce, stabby girl energy 🔪, while Luke is the soft, feminist, ‘let me just worship you’ golden retriever we all deserve.
First off, the found family trope in this series? PERFECTION. I love how Katy teases us with glimpses of past and future characters like it’s some literary soap opera. I’m over here like, ‘Yes, please, gimme more!’ 🤌✨
Now, let's talk dedication: ‘To my black cat girlies who need a golden retriever who worships the ground you walk on but knows how to handle you too. Luke Owens is for you.’ UMMM, YES! Annie and Luke’s angst was on another level. The way they struggled with their baggage but still navigated old flames gave le all the feels. Annie’s insecurities, I felt that in my SOUL ❤️🩹.
Luke, this man is so soft, so patient, and just knows when to push and when to give space. Basically, Katy created the perfect snuggle-buddy with bonus empathy points 🩵.
Massive shoutout to @authorkatymichele for blessing me with an ARC ... again (seriously, you’re THE shit). Lenny’s Bartenders were great, but I am already counting down to 2025 for the Hey Honey’s Baristas series!
🚨🚨 PSA: We’re 10 months into 2024, and Crush & Burn is still living rent-free in my mind and heart. It’s an all-time fave, forever iconic ❤️🔥.
October 4, 2024
I am a sucker for second chance romances and Katy Michele did not disappoint with this one. This interconnected series has had me in a choke hold the entire time, getting better with each book that comes out.
Luke and Annie are amazing. Their golden retriever and black cat energy gave an edge to their banter that had me giggling and kicking my feet as I read this book. But I think what I loved the most is how everything in this story is so genuine and honest. You can feel the push and pull of them. The hurt. The tension. It isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. We see these characters grow together. We see the Lenny’s crew become even a more united found family front.
And that is what I love the most about this series. You can relate. To every single thing that happens to the characters. They keep you in a constant rollercoaster of happy, sad, angry, and everything in between.
Let me just say that this book is everything. From the story line to the plot to the characters and especially to the romance. I can say with my whole chest this is my favorite book of the 3 (and I really thought the second one would be with Eddie being a drummer and all). I cannot recommend it enough.
Thank you to Katy Michele, for the advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I can’t wait for all that will come next!
Luke and Annie are amazing. Their golden retriever and black cat energy gave an edge to their banter that had me giggling and kicking my feet as I read this book. But I think what I loved the most is how everything in this story is so genuine and honest. You can feel the push and pull of them. The hurt. The tension. It isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. We see these characters grow together. We see the Lenny’s crew become even a more united found family front.
And that is what I love the most about this series. You can relate. To every single thing that happens to the characters. They keep you in a constant rollercoaster of happy, sad, angry, and everything in between.
Let me just say that this book is everything. From the story line to the plot to the characters and especially to the romance. I can say with my whole chest this is my favorite book of the 3 (and I really thought the second one would be with Eddie being a drummer and all). I cannot recommend it enough.
Thank you to Katy Michele, for the advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I can’t wait for all that will come next!
September 28, 2024
✨Review✨
Ok so even those this is book 3 of Lenny’s bartender series, this is the first book I read from the series 🤭 it definitely won’t be the last!! I LOVED this book! It was sooo adorable & the Golden retriever/Black Cat trope was chefs kiss!
Annie was very interesting at first, took me a bit to warm up to her but the her character growth was amazing. I loved watching her finally open up & trust those around her who loved her so much 🖤 she took no crap from anyone but was also so vulnerable to her own emotions. Seeing her get the closure she needed to finally move forward with her feelings was the best.
Sweet Luke ❤️ he was such a teddy bear! I loved how much he swooned for Annie & never gave up on his feelings for her. Putting his foot down with her on several occasions had me feeling the same way Annie did lol. I loved seeing him make his own choices for his life.
10/10 recommend, I’ll be reading the rest of the series soon!!
~•~•~•~••~•~•~•
✨Fav lines✨
“I snatch the bag from him, glancing to see clothes and my fucking vibrator in the bag he packed.”- A🖤
“I think I broke Annie.” -L❤️
“No, man. She didn’t hang the moon,” I answer before I can stop myself. “She is the moon.” -L❤️
I hate him because I love him. I always have, and I always will. -A🖤
Ok so even those this is book 3 of Lenny’s bartender series, this is the first book I read from the series 🤭 it definitely won’t be the last!! I LOVED this book! It was sooo adorable & the Golden retriever/Black Cat trope was chefs kiss!
Annie was very interesting at first, took me a bit to warm up to her but the her character growth was amazing. I loved watching her finally open up & trust those around her who loved her so much 🖤 she took no crap from anyone but was also so vulnerable to her own emotions. Seeing her get the closure she needed to finally move forward with her feelings was the best.
Sweet Luke ❤️ he was such a teddy bear! I loved how much he swooned for Annie & never gave up on his feelings for her. Putting his foot down with her on several occasions had me feeling the same way Annie did lol. I loved seeing him make his own choices for his life.
10/10 recommend, I’ll be reading the rest of the series soon!!
~•~•~•~••~•~•~•
✨Fav lines✨
“I snatch the bag from him, glancing to see clothes and my fucking vibrator in the bag he packed.”- A🖤
“I think I broke Annie.” -L❤️
“No, man. She didn’t hang the moon,” I answer before I can stop myself. “She is the moon.” -L❤️
I hate him because I love him. I always have, and I always will. -A🖤
October 1, 2024
I have followed KATY MICHELE since she wrote her first book GIVING ME BUTTERFLIES and then CRASH AND BURN, so when BACK TO YOU was available for me to read, I was very excited to get my hands on her new book. I was not disappointed. KATY MICHELE has grown to be an excellent author with each book she has written. Her books get better and better each time. BACK TO YOU was so interesting and easy to read. The story deals with a topic that everyone at some level has experienced in life…bullying and how it can consume and even change you, if it is not dealt with. At the same time, it is also a beautiful story of selfless love and commitment. Something everyone craves in life. Her writing and descriptions make you feel exactly how each character feels. In so many instances, KATY MICHELE makes you feel like you are Annie or Luke. I also loved the mystery of why Luke and Annie were not together when the book started. I liked that she took a while to reveal it. If you want to read a book with a great love story, friendship, forgiveness, and selfless love, you must read BACK TO YOU. You will read it in one sitting. Well done!
September 22, 2024
Katy Michele does it again. This book was so well written it draws you in instantly! From the moment of reading the first page, I did not want to put the book down. The characters are so complex and thought out. Katy truly knows how to evoke so many emotions and is not afraid to take you into the darkness of life while holding your hand, guiding you back out again.
From the start of the series, Annie was easily my favorite. I couldn’t wait to learn more about her and her growth as a character as well as her and Luke’s backstory and their fight for a second chance. Her quick, sassy comebacks and her take no shit attitude made her so easy to love. Also making you aware that she went through some shit. His unflappable energy and positivity were such a perfect contrast. From the beginning Luke’s love for Annie is so palpable. The support that they give each other and space to learn and grow both individually and together was so fun to read.
To say I am excited for future books would be an understatement!
From the start of the series, Annie was easily my favorite. I couldn’t wait to learn more about her and her growth as a character as well as her and Luke’s backstory and their fight for a second chance. Her quick, sassy comebacks and her take no shit attitude made her so easy to love. Also making you aware that she went through some shit. His unflappable energy and positivity were such a perfect contrast. From the beginning Luke’s love for Annie is so palpable. The support that they give each other and space to learn and grow both individually and together was so fun to read.
To say I am excited for future books would be an understatement!
September 28, 2024
Hi y’all! I was one of the lucky ARC readers on the newest Katy Michelle’s masterpiece “Back to You”. I read this book in literally one day! Here are my thoughts!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️ spiciness
I love this book so much! I love the FMC and the MMC Annie and Luke! This book was beautifully written. I felt all the feels in this book, happy, sad, you name it! I love how even though it is a romance book it isn’t all about romance. It mentions therapy, grief, and everything in between. It made me see a new side of the characters. I loved how throughout the book the characters stayed true to themselves and their goals. The story is truly unique! When I finished the book I smiled so much because the characters felt like my best friends. I felt throughout the story I was there with the characters experiencing everything with them. It is so hard for authors to have someone feel like that but Katy did it! This book is truly one I will be recommending to everyone!
Thank you for reading my review!
September 28, 2024
A Heartfelt Journey of Growth, Love, and Real-Life Struggles
What makes this story stand out is how it brings real-life struggles to light and shows how they impact daily life, relationships, and self-discovery. I may have shed a few tears while reading, as the characters’ journeys felt so relatable and real for me.
This book is packed full of emotion—you truly experience the characters’ growth, watching them work on themselves and become better for their relationships. The connection between Annie and Luke is just the cherry on top of the heartwarming relationships in this story. But it’s not just about romance—there’s strong girl support, found family, and real family, all coming together to help each other grow.
Tropes:
• Black Cat x Golden Retriever
• Second Chance
• Roommates
• Found Family
• “Hey, Honey”
• Secret Tattoo
• She’s the Protective One
• “It’s Always Been You”
Spice Meter: 🌶️🌶️ (Just the right amount of heat)
Emotional Meter: 💧💧💧💧 (Prepare for some tears!)
I received an advance copy, and this review is honest and voluntary.
What makes this story stand out is how it brings real-life struggles to light and shows how they impact daily life, relationships, and self-discovery. I may have shed a few tears while reading, as the characters’ journeys felt so relatable and real for me.
This book is packed full of emotion—you truly experience the characters’ growth, watching them work on themselves and become better for their relationships. The connection between Annie and Luke is just the cherry on top of the heartwarming relationships in this story. But it’s not just about romance—there’s strong girl support, found family, and real family, all coming together to help each other grow.
Tropes:
• Black Cat x Golden Retriever
• Second Chance
• Roommates
• Found Family
• “Hey, Honey”
• Secret Tattoo
• She’s the Protective One
• “It’s Always Been You”
Spice Meter: 🌶️🌶️ (Just the right amount of heat)
Emotional Meter: 💧💧💧💧 (Prepare for some tears!)
I received an advance copy, and this review is honest and voluntary.
July 4, 2025
5⭐
I’m not normally the biggest fan of 2nd chance romances, but this one, I LOVE. Luke and Annie, childhood sweethearts with very different views on their breakup, feel like real, grounded people. They have real problems that aren’t magically solved by one conversation with a friend or an extended inner monologue.
Katy does a great job of pacing the story. Usually, my problem with 2nd chance romances is that the couple spends the entire book not getting back together because of easily solvable problems or silly miscommunications. Here, instead, the couple begins to organically mend their friendship first which makes the progression of their relationship feel much more natural. I also loved that not all of the conflict came from the two MC’s. That always bothers me in a book. I want to see how the characters deal with an outside conflict together, not just how they can get mad at each other.
Overall, this is my favorite book in the Lenny’s Bartenders series, and I can’t wait to read Katy’s next work.
I’m not normally the biggest fan of 2nd chance romances, but this one, I LOVE. Luke and Annie, childhood sweethearts with very different views on their breakup, feel like real, grounded people. They have real problems that aren’t magically solved by one conversation with a friend or an extended inner monologue.
Katy does a great job of pacing the story. Usually, my problem with 2nd chance romances is that the couple spends the entire book not getting back together because of easily solvable problems or silly miscommunications. Here, instead, the couple begins to organically mend their friendship first which makes the progression of their relationship feel much more natural. I also loved that not all of the conflict came from the two MC’s. That always bothers me in a book. I want to see how the characters deal with an outside conflict together, not just how they can get mad at each other.
Overall, this is my favorite book in the Lenny’s Bartenders series, and I can’t wait to read Katy’s next work.
September 26, 2024
Another 5⭐️ read from Katy🥰
I ate this book up! I have loved this series so much and I LOVED Annie and Luke’s story so much.
Luke not understanding why Annie just left him, 4 months after she left he walks into the bar for a job and there is his Annie girl behind the bar. But she’s different, speaks her mind and isn’t afraid to tell it to you straight.
7 years later, Annie is “putting up” with Luke due to being in the same friend group but made Luke promise not to tell them about their past.
After a break in in Annie’s apartment, she moves in with Luke and Luke decides he has one month to get Annie to fall back in love with him.
This was such a perfect read, from their banter, Luke pushing Annie’s buttons and Annie being a grump towards him was just *chefs kiss*
The “Fuck it” moment, the kisses and the flirting, I LOVED it!!
Throw in some heartbreak and an emotional journey too🥹 this was so so so good and I cannot recommend this book and this series enough!!♥️
I ate this book up! I have loved this series so much and I LOVED Annie and Luke’s story so much.
Luke not understanding why Annie just left him, 4 months after she left he walks into the bar for a job and there is his Annie girl behind the bar. But she’s different, speaks her mind and isn’t afraid to tell it to you straight.
7 years later, Annie is “putting up” with Luke due to being in the same friend group but made Luke promise not to tell them about their past.
After a break in in Annie’s apartment, she moves in with Luke and Luke decides he has one month to get Annie to fall back in love with him.
This was such a perfect read, from their banter, Luke pushing Annie’s buttons and Annie being a grump towards him was just *chefs kiss*
The “Fuck it” moment, the kisses and the flirting, I LOVED it!!
Throw in some heartbreak and an emotional journey too🥹 this was so so so good and I cannot recommend this book and this series enough!!♥️
October 2, 2024
Just when I thought nothing could top the first two couples in the Lenny’s Bartenders series… in came Annie & Luke’s story. From the very first page, I was fully submerged in this book. I legit could not put it down and finished it in one afternoon. I’ve said it twice before and it’ll say it again; never have I ever read such hardships and tough topics written so well. Grief is not linear and is different for everyone and every situation; this series is a perfect representation of that.
I love that we got to learn about Luke and Annie’s history and see their relationship grow and heal. I also love that all the other characters were such a big part of this book, seeing the whole Lenny’s Crew grow and be there for each other made me cry more times than I can count. The found-family dynamic of this friend group literally makes me cry. It’s so wholesome and beautiful and I don’t think I will ever get over how much I love these characters.
I love that we got to learn about Luke and Annie’s history and see their relationship grow and heal. I also love that all the other characters were such a big part of this book, seeing the whole Lenny’s Crew grow and be there for each other made me cry more times than I can count. The found-family dynamic of this friend group literally makes me cry. It’s so wholesome and beautiful and I don’t think I will ever get over how much I love these characters.
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