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Smoky Heights #1
Rekindling the Flame
I never intended to set foot in Smoky Heights again.
But when I learn my mom has less than a year to live, I swallow my pride and return to help her through her final months. My plan is stay focused, avoid the past, and most importantly, steer clear of Wyatt Grady—my first love and the person I hurt the worst when I left.
But fate has other ideas. One unfortunate encounter is all it takes to remind me that the chemistry between us is as electric as ever, reigniting old desires and emotions I thought I’d buried for good. What starts as a reluctant reunion quickly turns into something far more complicated. Before I know it, we’re in too deep, with a pact to keep things strictly physical.
Soon enough, he’s becoming the best part about my visit to this small mountain town we both grew up in. All we need to do is keep feelings out of the equation, but as old sparks reignite, that becomes harder and harder to stick to, and I can’t help wondering if I made the wrong choice all those years ago.
Rekindling the Flame is a touching story of redemption, rekindled love, and the power of forgiveness. It is a standalone with a happily ever after, and has enough spice to start a food truck.
________________________________________________
Small town romance
Second chance romance
Hookup pact
“If it wasn’t you, it wasn’t anyone.”
City girl goes back to the mountains
But when I learn my mom has less than a year to live, I swallow my pride and return to help her through her final months. My plan is stay focused, avoid the past, and most importantly, steer clear of Wyatt Grady—my first love and the person I hurt the worst when I left.
But fate has other ideas. One unfortunate encounter is all it takes to remind me that the chemistry between us is as electric as ever, reigniting old desires and emotions I thought I’d buried for good. What starts as a reluctant reunion quickly turns into something far more complicated. Before I know it, we’re in too deep, with a pact to keep things strictly physical.
Soon enough, he’s becoming the best part about my visit to this small mountain town we both grew up in. All we need to do is keep feelings out of the equation, but as old sparks reignite, that becomes harder and harder to stick to, and I can’t help wondering if I made the wrong choice all those years ago.
Rekindling the Flame is a touching story of redemption, rekindled love, and the power of forgiveness. It is a standalone with a happily ever after, and has enough spice to start a food truck.
________________________________________________
Small town romance
Second chance romance
Hookup pact
“If it wasn’t you, it wasn’t anyone.”
City girl goes back to the mountains
422 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2024
398 people are currently reading
3818 people want to read
About the author
Madison Myers
6 books196 followersMaddie is an elder millennial who writes contemporary romance books that focus on relatable characters you’ll fall for, journeys you’ll root for and spice you’ll melt for. She’s awful at social media and talking in the third person, but she’s less slightly terrible at writing spicy romance.
When she isn’t at her keyboard from dark to dark, she’s usually blasting music that hasn’t been cool for fifteen years, or curling up with a book, her pups and the book boyfriend of the day, or her very real (and very understanding) husband of over a decade.
When she isn’t at her keyboard from dark to dark, she’s usually blasting music that hasn’t been cool for fifteen years, or curling up with a book, her pups and the book boyfriend of the day, or her very real (and very understanding) husband of over a decade.
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Want to read
November 25, 2024Trying to get to a few more fall vibes romances before jumping into my Christmasy/Winter reads. This one sounds incredible.
╰⪼ 🍁Small-town
╰⪼ ✨Second-Chance at First Love
╰⪼ 🍁Hookup Pact
╰⪼ ✨Outdoor + Public Spice
╰⪼ 🍁Family Drama
╰⪼ ✨Fall Vibes
╰⪼ 🍁Banter
╰⪼ ✨City Girl Goes back to the Mountains
╰⪼ 🍁Small-town
╰⪼ ✨Second-Chance at First Love
╰⪼ 🍁Hookup Pact
╰⪼ ✨Outdoor + Public Spice
╰⪼ 🍁Family Drama
╰⪼ ✨Fall Vibes
╰⪼ 🍁Banter
╰⪼ ✨City Girl Goes back to the Mountains
dnf
October 11, 2024Ugh I hate doing this but I just couldn’t read this 💔
October 3, 2024
A big thank you to Maddie for giving me this opportunity to read the arc and alpha read🩷
“If it wasn’t you, it wasn’t anyone.”
This book is an emotional rollercoaster but the best kind. The understanding of losing a parent and self forgiveness is truly beautiful. The real issues these characters are experiencing hits you right in the heart. I love how beautiful this story is!! I’ll never not be obsessed with smoky heights.
“RW + WG X”
Aurora has so much emotional baggage that she’s dealing with and I’ll be honest I loved her from the start. It took courage to do what she did and accept her ‘flaws’. She had to overcome so many things but I still love our girl so much. Her character development was such an honour to see blossom.
Wyatt, oh Wyatt I am so gone for you 🤭 you’re such a beautiful character. The things he’d do for the people around him, his heart is so precious!! He truly is one of my favourite MMC ever. Aurora is the only one for him and that sounds a secure man that understands his own emotions.
I have to say I absolutely adored our side characters. Laura Lee is by far the best side character ever. Her banter, her sarcasm. She’s something else and I just love love love her. I really love her chickens too 👀 Lexi & Duke also hold such a special place in my heart, the character development for Lexi was so exciting and I really need more from her!!
“She’s the only woman I’ll ever love. Twelve years apart has proven that.”
This book is so special, as much as I truly adored the characters. I loved the spice, the tension, the anticipation for what’s to come next. I love small town romances and this was done BRILLIANTLY!! This was a 5 star rating from the very start for me. I can’t stop thinking about them.
What to expect -
🍂 second chance
🍂 small town
🍂 hookup pact
🍂 city girl goes back to the mountains
🍂if it wasn’t you, it wasn’t anyone
🍂 outdoor spice
‼️ trigger warning - loss of a parent
My favourite quotes -
🍂 “Careful, Hellcat. You push me, I’ll push you right back.”
🍂 “You should know by now, I’ll give you whatever the fuck you need, all you gotta do is ask me for it. Is that so hard?”
🍂 “We weren’t oil and water; we were fuel and a match. We went together perfectly, but when one of us lit up or went off, so did the other.”
🍂 “I don’t have the words for what today has been. Seeing my girls like this. I’ve had a lot of good moments in my life. A lot.”
🍂 “I realize what my heart’s filled with. It’s a feeling I’ve spent more than twelve years chasing. Peace.”
🍂 “After searching for so long, it feels like I’ve finally found the meaning to the mess we call life. I’ve finally made a home.”
“If it wasn’t you, it wasn’t anyone.”
This book is an emotional rollercoaster but the best kind. The understanding of losing a parent and self forgiveness is truly beautiful. The real issues these characters are experiencing hits you right in the heart. I love how beautiful this story is!! I’ll never not be obsessed with smoky heights.
“RW + WG X”
Aurora has so much emotional baggage that she’s dealing with and I’ll be honest I loved her from the start. It took courage to do what she did and accept her ‘flaws’. She had to overcome so many things but I still love our girl so much. Her character development was such an honour to see blossom.
Wyatt, oh Wyatt I am so gone for you 🤭 you’re such a beautiful character. The things he’d do for the people around him, his heart is so precious!! He truly is one of my favourite MMC ever. Aurora is the only one for him and that sounds a secure man that understands his own emotions.
I have to say I absolutely adored our side characters. Laura Lee is by far the best side character ever. Her banter, her sarcasm. She’s something else and I just love love love her. I really love her chickens too 👀 Lexi & Duke also hold such a special place in my heart, the character development for Lexi was so exciting and I really need more from her!!
“She’s the only woman I’ll ever love. Twelve years apart has proven that.”
This book is so special, as much as I truly adored the characters. I loved the spice, the tension, the anticipation for what’s to come next. I love small town romances and this was done BRILLIANTLY!! This was a 5 star rating from the very start for me. I can’t stop thinking about them.
What to expect -
🍂 second chance
🍂 small town
🍂 hookup pact
🍂 city girl goes back to the mountains
🍂if it wasn’t you, it wasn’t anyone
🍂 outdoor spice
‼️ trigger warning - loss of a parent
My favourite quotes -
🍂 “Careful, Hellcat. You push me, I’ll push you right back.”
🍂 “You should know by now, I’ll give you whatever the fuck you need, all you gotta do is ask me for it. Is that so hard?”
🍂 “We weren’t oil and water; we were fuel and a match. We went together perfectly, but when one of us lit up or went off, so did the other.”
🍂 “I don’t have the words for what today has been. Seeing my girls like this. I’ve had a lot of good moments in my life. A lot.”
🍂 “I realize what my heart’s filled with. It’s a feeling I’ve spent more than twelve years chasing. Peace.”
🍂 “After searching for so long, it feels like I’ve finally found the meaning to the mess we call life. I’ve finally made a home.”
October 18, 2024
“Rekindling the Flame" by Madison Myers is a captivating small-town, second-chance romance with a pretty straightforward writing style, resulting in a a story that’s easy to follow. Here & there, a few more advanced words are used, which only adds to its charm, making it both accessible & enjoyable.
The main characters, Aurora & Wyatt, start off quite awkwardly - surface-level really, working out perfectly as the story unfolds. Their slow, but steady growth as they begin to open up, rebuild trust & rediscover the connection they once had is wonderful to see. You can feel the tension between them leaping off the page (or screen, in my case!). From the moment Aurora stumbles back into Smoky Heights, the chemistry between them is undeniable - every interaction charged with a mix of unresolved feelings & simmering attraction 🔥.
Aurora's return to Smoky Heights after twelve years is a necessary evil to be able to take care of her mother. Myers captures Aurora's distaste for small-town life perfectly & it's no surprise that the townspeople aren’t quick to forgive her for the way she left. The way the town itself is brought to life through her words is incredible — the bar with its faulty right handle, the friendliness (& gossipy ways) of the locals & the breathtaking backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. You can picture every detail vividly, as if it’s right in front of you.
Aurora’s transformation from the confident, high-maintenanced lawyer who has gotten used to the comforts of New York, to a redefined Rory, someone who confronts her past heads-on & eventually reconnects with her roots is well-executed. Her journey from being distant & self-centered to showing compassion & care is a rewarding one, watching her rediscover her place within the community.
While the story takes a while to build, especially during the more “physical” scenes, the pacing feels necessary to explore all the layers of relationships & past wounds haunting the ones who need healing. Aurora & Wyatt finally confront each other about their shared history, but will they make peace with their past or let it drive them apart for good?
All in all, this story is filled with relatable characters & real-life situations in a setting that ultimately feels like home & will make you fall in love with small-town life à la Gilmore Girls. If you like stories about healing, community & the simmering tension between two past lovers, this book is one to put on your TBR ASAP!
The main characters, Aurora & Wyatt, start off quite awkwardly - surface-level really, working out perfectly as the story unfolds. Their slow, but steady growth as they begin to open up, rebuild trust & rediscover the connection they once had is wonderful to see. You can feel the tension between them leaping off the page (or screen, in my case!). From the moment Aurora stumbles back into Smoky Heights, the chemistry between them is undeniable - every interaction charged with a mix of unresolved feelings & simmering attraction 🔥.
Aurora's return to Smoky Heights after twelve years is a necessary evil to be able to take care of her mother. Myers captures Aurora's distaste for small-town life perfectly & it's no surprise that the townspeople aren’t quick to forgive her for the way she left. The way the town itself is brought to life through her words is incredible — the bar with its faulty right handle, the friendliness (& gossipy ways) of the locals & the breathtaking backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. You can picture every detail vividly, as if it’s right in front of you.
Aurora’s transformation from the confident, high-maintenanced lawyer who has gotten used to the comforts of New York, to a redefined Rory, someone who confronts her past heads-on & eventually reconnects with her roots is well-executed. Her journey from being distant & self-centered to showing compassion & care is a rewarding one, watching her rediscover her place within the community.
While the story takes a while to build, especially during the more “physical” scenes, the pacing feels necessary to explore all the layers of relationships & past wounds haunting the ones who need healing. Aurora & Wyatt finally confront each other about their shared history, but will they make peace with their past or let it drive them apart for good?
All in all, this story is filled with relatable characters & real-life situations in a setting that ultimately feels like home & will make you fall in love with small-town life à la Gilmore Girls. If you like stories about healing, community & the simmering tension between two past lovers, this book is one to put on your TBR ASAP!
Read
January 22, 2025work book
September 15, 2024
I got my hands on a BETA copy of this book... Y'all I cant wait for this book to be out in the WILD. I am LOVINGGGGG it so far!!!
October 10, 2024
Possible T/W: Parent Loss, Cancer
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶🌶🌶🌶
First of all, the spice was SPICIN! 🥵 If you like a spicy romancé this book is for you! This book has me laughing and crying within just a few pages of each other. I love a second chance romance and I feel like the author did it well! Overall I liked the story, it was heartfelt, emotional and funny while still touching on serious topics.
I don’t have to much experience dealing with loss in my family or cancer, with that being said, I feel like the author seemed to put a lot of research into what she was writing. I feel like she did a good job at explaining what was happening with that storyline, but really focused on the FMC making the end of life care for her mom a positive thing which I loved. Her moms death happened pretty quick, which was not what I was expecting, at all. I loved how she had made those beautiful moments between her and her daughters before she passed so we could read them, but I kind of wish that Rory had been there with her mom when she passed. I do feel like that is very reflective of real life though so I appreciated that.
FMC Rory grew on me as I was reading the book. I feel like she showed a lot of growth throughout the book. MMC Wyatt was sweet, but also strong and no-nonsense. I feel like he and Rory were a good match. I’m a sucker for a “He falls harder” trope, I mean come on… he built their dream house just in case she came back???
I’m very excited to watch this author grow as she continues releasing books! She did a great job, and I will definitely be looking forward to more releases from her. I am also excited to read what she has out currently as well!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶🌶🌶🌶
First of all, the spice was SPICIN! 🥵 If you like a spicy romancé this book is for you! This book has me laughing and crying within just a few pages of each other. I love a second chance romance and I feel like the author did it well! Overall I liked the story, it was heartfelt, emotional and funny while still touching on serious topics.
I don’t have to much experience dealing with loss in my family or cancer, with that being said, I feel like the author seemed to put a lot of research into what she was writing. I feel like she did a good job at explaining what was happening with that storyline, but really focused on the FMC making the end of life care for her mom a positive thing which I loved. Her moms death happened pretty quick, which was not what I was expecting, at all. I loved how she had made those beautiful moments between her and her daughters before she passed so we could read them, but I kind of wish that Rory had been there with her mom when she passed. I do feel like that is very reflective of real life though so I appreciated that.
FMC Rory grew on me as I was reading the book. I feel like she showed a lot of growth throughout the book. MMC Wyatt was sweet, but also strong and no-nonsense. I feel like he and Rory were a good match. I’m a sucker for a “He falls harder” trope, I mean come on… he built their dream house just in case she came back???
I’m very excited to watch this author grow as she continues releasing books! She did a great job, and I will definitely be looking forward to more releases from her. I am also excited to read what she has out currently as well!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2024
First, a huge thank you to Maddie for the ARC opportunity! This is one of my favorite second chance romances I’ve read, by far. With Aurora returning to Smoky Heights to help care for her sick mom, she hopes to avoid her ex. But when her and Wyatt cross paths again, they both realize the attraction and feelings never changed.
To say this book was an “emotional rollercoaster” would be an understatement. It’s real and raw. Every turn of the page presented a new emotion: love, humor, heartbreak, grief, self-doubt, redemption, etc. You name it, Madison Myers presented it and had you hooked the entire time.
The characters were relatable, especially portrayed in such imaginable real-life scenarios. Laura Lee was witty, forgiving, and showed how to make the best out of the worst life has to offer. Even while battling cancer, she made light of difficult situations and added humor to keep everyone’s spirits high.
Lexi starts off as the ‘bitter older sister’, but the ice chips away the more you read. Her grace to forgive and accept Rory is honestly one of my favorite parts of the story. There’s nothing like a genuine sister bond. Laura Lee’s chapter had me crying.
Rory was the definition of self-redemption. She returned to Smoky Heights after 12 years, knowing how she left her image for the town, but worked to prove herself to those she cared about most. What started as her counting down the months until she returned to New York turned into her realizing she fled Smoky Heights for all the wrong reasons.
Wyatt, the star of the book, in my opinion, was one of the best MMCs I’ve read. I love a MMC that is head over heels for the FMC and isn’t afraid to admit it. Both his words and actions were perfect. “If it wasn’t you, it wasn’t anyone”
I can’t wait until this book is released so I can be annoying and recommend it to everyone I know. 🫶🏼
To say this book was an “emotional rollercoaster” would be an understatement. It’s real and raw. Every turn of the page presented a new emotion: love, humor, heartbreak, grief, self-doubt, redemption, etc. You name it, Madison Myers presented it and had you hooked the entire time.
The characters were relatable, especially portrayed in such imaginable real-life scenarios. Laura Lee was witty, forgiving, and showed how to make the best out of the worst life has to offer. Even while battling cancer, she made light of difficult situations and added humor to keep everyone’s spirits high.
Lexi starts off as the ‘bitter older sister’, but the ice chips away the more you read. Her grace to forgive and accept Rory is honestly one of my favorite parts of the story. There’s nothing like a genuine sister bond. Laura Lee’s chapter had me crying.
Rory was the definition of self-redemption. She returned to Smoky Heights after 12 years, knowing how she left her image for the town, but worked to prove herself to those she cared about most. What started as her counting down the months until she returned to New York turned into her realizing she fled Smoky Heights for all the wrong reasons.
Wyatt, the star of the book, in my opinion, was one of the best MMCs I’ve read. I love a MMC that is head over heels for the FMC and isn’t afraid to admit it. Both his words and actions were perfect. “If it wasn’t you, it wasn’t anyone”
I can’t wait until this book is released so I can be annoying and recommend it to everyone I know. 🫶🏼
October 17, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Tropes in this masterpiece:
🔥: second chance at first love🥰
🪵: Small-town
✨: hookup pact
💜: outdoor + public spice
🍁: family drama
🔥: fall/cozy vibes
🪵: banter
✨: city girl goes back to the mountains
🥵: WYATT ANDREW GRADY, enough said 👏🏻
•
Oh! My! Lord!!!
•
MADISON.. Miss girl…you 👏🏻 have 👏🏻 outdone 👏🏻 yourself!! 👏🏻 This book hit ALL the feels.. ALL OF THEM. i will be ✨impatiently✨ waiting for the 2nd in this series.. i will NEVER get over Wyatt Grady.. EVER. 😮💨
Now, the review!
Rory goes back to her mountain hometown that she ran away from 12 years prior. Her mom is terminally sick and she’s committed to sticking out the remaining time they have left together in the exact location she has avoided for all these years. The town, her family and 1 specific person have been weighing heavy on her heart as she ventures back…
Wyatt Grady, the one she left behind.
(i love you, wyatt 🫣😮💨💁🏻♀️)
Rory’s first love, from 16 years old to their early 20s they were IT for each other until they weren’t ..
These 2 spend the time Rory has left in her small hometown, REKINDLING THE FLAME 🔥 💜 ( and boy, do they 🥵) that they thought was extinguished.. these scenes are 🌶️ and i was here for every second! Outdoor, indoor, on cars, in bars..
this book has me in a chokehold, i need it on my shelf… all of them.. all the ones to come.. i want everyone’s stories, i want development, i want a sneak peek at what they’re doing 10 years down the road.. i didn’t break up with him but i feel like IM the one that let Wyatt Grady get away 🤣 obsessed.. 👏🏻
The sadness in this book is so well done that it doesn’t make you feel depressed but it puts such perspective into the message.. (also, f*ck cancer) Madison truly captures the emotions in this perfectly and does the characters such justice.
i will BUY this book, i will RECOMMEND this book, i will THINK about this book until the next one is in my Bookfunnel email lol
Tropes in this masterpiece:
🔥: second chance at first love🥰
🪵: Small-town
✨: hookup pact
💜: outdoor + public spice
🍁: family drama
🔥: fall/cozy vibes
🪵: banter
✨: city girl goes back to the mountains
🥵: WYATT ANDREW GRADY, enough said 👏🏻
•
Oh! My! Lord!!!
•
MADISON.. Miss girl…you 👏🏻 have 👏🏻 outdone 👏🏻 yourself!! 👏🏻 This book hit ALL the feels.. ALL OF THEM. i will be ✨impatiently✨ waiting for the 2nd in this series.. i will NEVER get over Wyatt Grady.. EVER. 😮💨
Now, the review!
Rory goes back to her mountain hometown that she ran away from 12 years prior. Her mom is terminally sick and she’s committed to sticking out the remaining time they have left together in the exact location she has avoided for all these years. The town, her family and 1 specific person have been weighing heavy on her heart as she ventures back…
Wyatt Grady, the one she left behind.
(i love you, wyatt 🫣😮💨💁🏻♀️)
Rory’s first love, from 16 years old to their early 20s they were IT for each other until they weren’t ..
These 2 spend the time Rory has left in her small hometown, REKINDLING THE FLAME 🔥 💜 ( and boy, do they 🥵) that they thought was extinguished.. these scenes are 🌶️ and i was here for every second! Outdoor, indoor, on cars, in bars..
this book has me in a chokehold, i need it on my shelf… all of them.. all the ones to come.. i want everyone’s stories, i want development, i want a sneak peek at what they’re doing 10 years down the road.. i didn’t break up with him but i feel like IM the one that let Wyatt Grady get away 🤣 obsessed.. 👏🏻
The sadness in this book is so well done that it doesn’t make you feel depressed but it puts such perspective into the message.. (also, f*ck cancer) Madison truly captures the emotions in this perfectly and does the characters such justice.
i will BUY this book, i will RECOMMEND this book, i will THINK about this book until the next one is in my Bookfunnel email lol
October 7, 2024
Just finished this beauty, I laughed out loud at the pure cheekiness of these characters. I loved the way they went back and forth with each other. The spice was spicy, chemistry galore jumping out of that page. Loved the many cock blocks too, cough bear cough.
Usually in these second chance romances you have this whole negative tension going on but I didn’t feel that here and I LOVED it, a nice change from other books I’ve read. Wyatt was there for the loving while he got it but it ended up getting him everything in the end. It has always been her for him.
My heart broke for the storyline with Auroras mum, I lived for the special moments they shared ticking off her list. After losing my own mum suddenly 5 years ago this hit close to home. Especially the lines where is it better to know or not know that they’re going to pass, sometimes I wish I knew so I could do what she did with her mum but then nothing can actually prepare you for it at all. The way she spoke about grief hit my heart like no other. Thailand at home made me shed those tears that’s for sure, just a beautiful idea which I did see coming but enjoyed all the same.
If a book can make me laugh, cry and smile while I read it then I’m giving that book 5 stars. Well done Madison Myers I can’t wait to read what comes next 🙌🏻
Usually in these second chance romances you have this whole negative tension going on but I didn’t feel that here and I LOVED it, a nice change from other books I’ve read. Wyatt was there for the loving while he got it but it ended up getting him everything in the end. It has always been her for him.
My heart broke for the storyline with Auroras mum, I lived for the special moments they shared ticking off her list. After losing my own mum suddenly 5 years ago this hit close to home. Especially the lines where is it better to know or not know that they’re going to pass, sometimes I wish I knew so I could do what she did with her mum but then nothing can actually prepare you for it at all. The way she spoke about grief hit my heart like no other. Thailand at home made me shed those tears that’s for sure, just a beautiful idea which I did see coming but enjoyed all the same.
If a book can make me laugh, cry and smile while I read it then I’m giving that book 5 stars. Well done Madison Myers I can’t wait to read what comes next 🙌🏻
October 16, 2024
My favorite kind of book, small town second chances, and I loved every word. In their teens, Aurora and Wyatt, were everything, until they weren’t. She is a big city, and he is a small town, and if not for her mom, she probably would not have returned to Smoky Heights.
Aurora has returned, and her baggage is heavy. She is hoping to avoid seeing Wyatt again, but no such luck. Within hours of returning he is one of the first she runs into. She can live in this town until her situation changes, but she is determined to return to the city.
Some of the best parts of the story are the banter, Laura Lee’s chickens, and the character growth. Twelve years is along time, things change and people change, but the love in your heart does not. Maybe the city has become lackluster this time around.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Aurora has returned, and her baggage is heavy. She is hoping to avoid seeing Wyatt again, but no such luck. Within hours of returning he is one of the first she runs into. She can live in this town until her situation changes, but she is determined to return to the city.
Some of the best parts of the story are the banter, Laura Lee’s chickens, and the character growth. Twelve years is along time, things change and people change, but the love in your heart does not. Maybe the city has become lackluster this time around.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
October 14, 2024
A huge thank you to Maddie for sending me the E-ARC of this amazing book. I am thankful for the opportunity to read it. This book was beautifully written and had so much thought put into it. I laughed. I cried. I got angry. It was an rollercoaster of emotions and hit me right in my feels.
Plot: Aurora goes home because her mom is sick. She had a tumultuous relationship with her mom and sister due to the way she left town, so she’s a little nervous about going home. Once there she ends up running into her old flame from when she was younger, Wyatt. They end up forming an “attachment” that ends up backfiring on both of them. In the midst of all her stuff with Wyatt, she’s handling her mom’s situation and trying to help her live out her bucket list. She also helps save the town from some crappy bank people because she’s a badass lawyer.
Be prepared for some tears and some heart breaking with the mom storyline. However, there is also laughs and silliness that takes place while they are rebuilding their relationship.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Well done Madison. I’m excited to see what your next book has in store for us. This was well-written and done beautifully 🥰
Plot: Aurora goes home because her mom is sick. She had a tumultuous relationship with her mom and sister due to the way she left town, so she’s a little nervous about going home. Once there she ends up running into her old flame from when she was younger, Wyatt. They end up forming an “attachment” that ends up backfiring on both of them. In the midst of all her stuff with Wyatt, she’s handling her mom’s situation and trying to help her live out her bucket list. She also helps save the town from some crappy bank people because she’s a badass lawyer.
Be prepared for some tears and some heart breaking with the mom storyline. However, there is also laughs and silliness that takes place while they are rebuilding their relationship.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Well done Madison. I’m excited to see what your next book has in store for us. This was well-written and done beautifully 🥰
October 7, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, and it was such a good small town, second chance romance!
As someone from a small town who left as quickly as she could, I deeply identify with that part of Aurora/Rory. I also really appreciated that the big issues of the characters were actually addressed head on throughout the book with more than just the FMC/MMC.
It's a beautiful story of family, redemption, and finding yourself, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a sweet but relatively spicy fall read!
Thank you to the author + NetGalley for the digital ARC!
As someone from a small town who left as quickly as she could, I deeply identify with that part of Aurora/Rory. I also really appreciated that the big issues of the characters were actually addressed head on throughout the book with more than just the FMC/MMC.
It's a beautiful story of family, redemption, and finding yourself, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a sweet but relatively spicy fall read!
Thank you to the author + NetGalley for the digital ARC!
December 21, 2025
First of all, huge thanks to the author for sending me this ARC! This one is a small-town, second-chance romance that’s equal parts cute, spicy, and emotional. Since both tropes are absolute favorites of mine, it was so easy to fall into this story.
Aurora never planned on setting foot in Smoky Heights again. But when she learns her mom has less than a year to live, she returns home determined to stay focused, avoid her past, and especially steer clear of Wyatt Grady, the boy she once loved and the man she broke his heart when she left. But one chance encounter and their chemistry come roaring back. She was terrified of commitment, and he was heartbroken. But they found a way to make it happen: a hookup pact, with a promise not to get emotionally involved or talk about their past.
But bestie, they were each other’s first love. He literally waited four years for her. So, of course, they would find their way back to each other. You just know those old sparks are impossible to bury. What starts as a reluctant reunion turns into something deeper, and suddenly Wyatt isn’t just part of her past, he’s becoming her present.
Beyond the spice (and yes, there’s plenty), this story was also really emotional. Aurora’s journey of rediscovering herself and figuring out what she truly wants hits hard. And Wyatt? He’s patient, thoughtful, and so completely devoted to her. He’s absolutely the dream come true.
Rekindling the Flame is a touching story of redemption, forgiveness, and rekindled love. Sweet, spicy, emotional, and the perfect cozy read to curl up with this fall. Just don’t forget to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
Aurora never planned on setting foot in Smoky Heights again. But when she learns her mom has less than a year to live, she returns home determined to stay focused, avoid her past, and especially steer clear of Wyatt Grady, the boy she once loved and the man she broke his heart when she left. But one chance encounter and their chemistry come roaring back. She was terrified of commitment, and he was heartbroken. But they found a way to make it happen: a hookup pact, with a promise not to get emotionally involved or talk about their past.
But bestie, they were each other’s first love. He literally waited four years for her. So, of course, they would find their way back to each other. You just know those old sparks are impossible to bury. What starts as a reluctant reunion turns into something deeper, and suddenly Wyatt isn’t just part of her past, he’s becoming her present.
Beyond the spice (and yes, there’s plenty), this story was also really emotional. Aurora’s journey of rediscovering herself and figuring out what she truly wants hits hard. And Wyatt? He’s patient, thoughtful, and so completely devoted to her. He’s absolutely the dream come true.
Rekindling the Flame is a touching story of redemption, forgiveness, and rekindled love. Sweet, spicy, emotional, and the perfect cozy read to curl up with this fall. Just don’t forget to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
October 14, 2024
I was given this book as an ARC reader and I really wanted to like it.
Unfortunately Aurora is just not a likeable main character, she’s selfish and immature the entire way through the book, and there’s not enough character development there. She self flagellates about how she abandoned her family, but does nothing to actually make amends. It also never makes sense to me that she didn’t even speak to her family at all when she left?? Leaving Lexi out of the Thailand trip was completely brushed over even though it was objectively cruel, but Rory seems to just get away with everything. There was also far too much longing for NY to make her staying at the end believable. And what about her job?!
Wyatt is a better character but honestly started to annoy me through the book, I wish he’d have been a little stronger in his convictions instead of bending to her all the time. I just lost respect for him when he found the note the second time and, instead of being mad or even sad, he decided she was totally right and he should take himself off to the wilderness to not “bother her”. It really screams obsession, not maturity. But I suppose that’s what the author was going for. Also, in Wyatt’s POV, several words are missing from sentences, and the grammar is sometimes off. I understand it was being written the way he might speak, but it was inconsistent and kept taking me out of the story.
All that said, it’s a nice enough second chance romance in a nice setting, if you take it at face value only and don’t look at the characters.
Unfortunately Aurora is just not a likeable main character, she’s selfish and immature the entire way through the book, and there’s not enough character development there. She self flagellates about how she abandoned her family, but does nothing to actually make amends. It also never makes sense to me that she didn’t even speak to her family at all when she left?? Leaving Lexi out of the Thailand trip was completely brushed over even though it was objectively cruel, but Rory seems to just get away with everything. There was also far too much longing for NY to make her staying at the end believable. And what about her job?!
Wyatt is a better character but honestly started to annoy me through the book, I wish he’d have been a little stronger in his convictions instead of bending to her all the time. I just lost respect for him when he found the note the second time and, instead of being mad or even sad, he decided she was totally right and he should take himself off to the wilderness to not “bother her”. It really screams obsession, not maturity. But I suppose that’s what the author was going for. Also, in Wyatt’s POV, several words are missing from sentences, and the grammar is sometimes off. I understand it was being written the way he might speak, but it was inconsistent and kept taking me out of the story.
All that said, it’s a nice enough second chance romance in a nice setting, if you take it at face value only and don’t look at the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2024
I’ve been a Madison Meyers stan for a while now, but Wyatt and Rory’s story may be my favorite yet. 🥺
This book was emotional, poignant, hilarious, and provocative. It sacrificed nothing and gave everything you want in a romance book.
I’m a sucker for second chance but this was so much more…. It was about a woman who had everything and gave it up before she lost it all. She made a life for herself in NYC but somehow it was not life at all. Her mother’s cancer diagnosis brought her home reminding her of that fact. Life’s funny like that sometimes.
Along with a lot of emotion though, came moments where I snort/laughed so hard I choked. Her mother might have had brain cancer, but she was still hilarious and stubborn.
Maddie just did such a good job with both Wyatt and Rory’s character development. She took care to make sure there was resolution in every part of their story.
UGH. The grand gesture. 🥺✨😮💨 that’s all I’m going to say to keep this spoiler free.
The romance was perfect. It wasn’t too fast or too slow, which can be tricky with second chance. The spice was sexy and unique but not weird (which is so hard to do!)
Would recommend this book to anyone wanting a beautifully well rounded romance!
This book was emotional, poignant, hilarious, and provocative. It sacrificed nothing and gave everything you want in a romance book.
I’m a sucker for second chance but this was so much more…. It was about a woman who had everything and gave it up before she lost it all. She made a life for herself in NYC but somehow it was not life at all. Her mother’s cancer diagnosis brought her home reminding her of that fact. Life’s funny like that sometimes.
Along with a lot of emotion though, came moments where I snort/laughed so hard I choked. Her mother might have had brain cancer, but she was still hilarious and stubborn.
Maddie just did such a good job with both Wyatt and Rory’s character development. She took care to make sure there was resolution in every part of their story.
UGH. The grand gesture. 🥺✨😮💨 that’s all I’m going to say to keep this spoiler free.
The romance was perfect. It wasn’t too fast or too slow, which can be tricky with second chance. The spice was sexy and unique but not weird (which is so hard to do!)
Would recommend this book to anyone wanting a beautifully well rounded romance!
October 14, 2024
I found Rory's journey in this book well executed and somewhat. She struggles with her sense of self, her career goals, and unresolved emotions and how she moves forward while trying to mend the relationships she fractured when she left. It felt real and as the story progressed I loved seeing their characters being who truly they are. The connection between Rory and Wyatt is strikingly heartwarming, and their path to reviving their relationship resonates with sincerity. 💕
Loved the engaging writing style. Enjoyed reading the town setting and its eccentric residents, infusing the story with a cozy charm. 💗
Loved the engaging writing style. Enjoyed reading the town setting and its eccentric residents, infusing the story with a cozy charm. 💗
November 10, 2025
Aurora has spent years away from her hometown, but now she’s back to spend time with her sick mother. Coming home means facing all the people she left behind, and fixing those relationships. Especially her relationship with Wyatt. The story and writing had such a real and relatable feeling that I really liked.
This was a great read for fall. I loved the cozy mountain vibes. It was emotional and heartfelt with just the right amount of spice.
🔥Second chance
🔥Small town
🔥Coming home
🔥It’s always been you
This was a great read for fall. I loved the cozy mountain vibes. It was emotional and heartfelt with just the right amount of spice.
🔥Second chance
🔥Small town
🔥Coming home
🔥It’s always been you
October 10, 2024
I have been thinking for 2 days what the perfect words are to review Rekindling the Flame. I loved every second of reading Madison’s writing!
Rekindling the Flame had me go through all the feels. One minute I’m kicking my feet and giggling, the next I’m reminded of my feelings I had watching my grandfather fight and ultimately pass from a short cancer battle.
I loved Aurora and Wyatt. I loved their characters, their growth, I loved Smoky Heights. I have personally fallen in love with a tiny town in Appalachia that could for sure be Smoky Heights. Which was an amazing addition to the scenery that Madison already painted in my head through her words.
I cannot encourage anyone enough, read it. Second chance romance, perfect amount of spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️, small town, very hallmark vibes!
I’m going to be a Madison Myers fan for a long time, I can tell.
Rekindling the Flame had me go through all the feels. One minute I’m kicking my feet and giggling, the next I’m reminded of my feelings I had watching my grandfather fight and ultimately pass from a short cancer battle.
I loved Aurora and Wyatt. I loved their characters, their growth, I loved Smoky Heights. I have personally fallen in love with a tiny town in Appalachia that could for sure be Smoky Heights. Which was an amazing addition to the scenery that Madison already painted in my head through her words.
I cannot encourage anyone enough, read it. Second chance romance, perfect amount of spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️, small town, very hallmark vibes!
I’m going to be a Madison Myers fan for a long time, I can tell.
December 20, 2024
I have no words to say how much I've loved this book!
Aurora comes back home after 12 years, to tend to her sick mother. She leaves her life, her job, her new city behind, to go back to a place she hasn't visited once since she left and the people she left on her rear view mirror. Among them, Wyatt, her boyfriend of five years, the man she never forgot and never said goodbye to when she left.
Aurora has closed herself off to so many things in these past 12 years, and she slowly realised what she had and she would like to have for her future.
Wyatt, well what can we say about the man who was willing to get hurt all over again for the woman he's been in love with for the past 17 years, just to help her have an escape from the hell she was living with her mom.
There were some light and joyful moments, some very sad ones, some hot ones - incredibly hot ones - and some infuriating ones - I'm talking to you Wyatt and your camping trip! But all in all, this is a book I have every intention to own a physical copy of, and even though I am so grateful for the arc I have received, I need to bookmark it like it was on fire. Wyatt's quotes are everything here!
Thank you Netgalley and Madison Myers for allowing me to read this book for an honest review. I honestly am really looking forward for book 2!
Aurora comes back home after 12 years, to tend to her sick mother. She leaves her life, her job, her new city behind, to go back to a place she hasn't visited once since she left and the people she left on her rear view mirror. Among them, Wyatt, her boyfriend of five years, the man she never forgot and never said goodbye to when she left.
Aurora has closed herself off to so many things in these past 12 years, and she slowly realised what she had and she would like to have for her future.
Wyatt, well what can we say about the man who was willing to get hurt all over again for the woman he's been in love with for the past 17 years, just to help her have an escape from the hell she was living with her mom.
There were some light and joyful moments, some very sad ones, some hot ones - incredibly hot ones - and some infuriating ones - I'm talking to you Wyatt and your camping trip! But all in all, this is a book I have every intention to own a physical copy of, and even though I am so grateful for the arc I have received, I need to bookmark it like it was on fire. Wyatt's quotes are everything here!
Thank you Netgalley and Madison Myers for allowing me to read this book for an honest review. I honestly am really looking forward for book 2!
October 13, 2024
This book y’all!!! I can’t believe I got selected for this ARC. I loved all the characters in this book. Madison makes me want more from them.
Can I start with Laura Lee and Duke?! They give me hope 💕. Hearing Laura Lee’s story hit my heart, as it is soo much of a similar situation that I have gone through and am currently going through. I wish we had more time with her.
Lexi and Weston… what can I say? Siblings will be siblings. You root for the family dynamic to grow and mend with Lexi. For walls to drop! As for Weston, I am left with questions. Are the next books going to be about them?
Grady and Hellcat!! ❤️ 🥰 Grady is everything in a secure man that I would ask for. His strength in times it is needed and the ability to let those walls down also. The way that he is able to talk Rory through soo many things and knows her on a deeper level where words are not even needed. Rory… she has soo much turmoil that she is fighting through, self-criticism, and anger. She is an incredibly strong and smart woman that has a journey to go through for healing.
The character development and story plot was amazing in Rekindling The Flame. Madison took the time to develop the characters and tell the story so you could feel what they were going through. But also… damn!!! Those 🌶️ scenes were sooooo 🔥 🔥!!! The descriptiveness of the scenes were on point without being over the top!
Thank you Madison Myers for allowing me to read this book in advance! I cannot wait for the other books in this series!
Can I start with Laura Lee and Duke?! They give me hope 💕. Hearing Laura Lee’s story hit my heart, as it is soo much of a similar situation that I have gone through and am currently going through. I wish we had more time with her.
Lexi and Weston… what can I say? Siblings will be siblings. You root for the family dynamic to grow and mend with Lexi. For walls to drop! As for Weston, I am left with questions. Are the next books going to be about them?
Grady and Hellcat!! ❤️ 🥰 Grady is everything in a secure man that I would ask for. His strength in times it is needed and the ability to let those walls down also. The way that he is able to talk Rory through soo many things and knows her on a deeper level where words are not even needed. Rory… she has soo much turmoil that she is fighting through, self-criticism, and anger. She is an incredibly strong and smart woman that has a journey to go through for healing.
The character development and story plot was amazing in Rekindling The Flame. Madison took the time to develop the characters and tell the story so you could feel what they were going through. But also… damn!!! Those 🌶️ scenes were sooooo 🔥 🔥!!! The descriptiveness of the scenes were on point without being over the top!
Thank you Madison Myers for allowing me to read this book in advance! I cannot wait for the other books in this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2024
Say hello to your favorite new small town romance.
Welcome to Smoky Heights!! Where the chickens are crazy and the MMC is drool worthy!! This spice is also spicing and will give you a whole new outlook on pool sticks and atvs 👀👀
After 12 years Aurora (Rory) finally returns to her hometown, for reasons I will not state in my review (spoilersss). Upon her arrival she learns how much life there has both changed and stayed the same. What she doesn’t know is how she’s going to navigate these new circumstances.
Wyatt has been living the day by day small town life his whole life. After 12 years without her, she finally comes back. The first time he sees her again it’s like hes been thrown back in time. Only they aren’t the young kids they were back then.
This story was so beautifully written and I loved all of the dynamics between the characters! The way the sisters and mother all acted together, how Rory and Wyatt interacted, and even the da** chickens🤣
Get ready for a rollercoaster or emotions! I’d advise you to buckle up for this one because phew😮💨 it is a ride!!!
Welcome to Smoky Heights!! Where the chickens are crazy and the MMC is drool worthy!! This spice is also spicing and will give you a whole new outlook on pool sticks and atvs 👀👀
After 12 years Aurora (Rory) finally returns to her hometown, for reasons I will not state in my review (spoilersss). Upon her arrival she learns how much life there has both changed and stayed the same. What she doesn’t know is how she’s going to navigate these new circumstances.
Wyatt has been living the day by day small town life his whole life. After 12 years without her, she finally comes back. The first time he sees her again it’s like hes been thrown back in time. Only they aren’t the young kids they were back then.
This story was so beautifully written and I loved all of the dynamics between the characters! The way the sisters and mother all acted together, how Rory and Wyatt interacted, and even the da** chickens🤣
Get ready for a rollercoaster or emotions! I’d advise you to buckle up for this one because phew😮💨 it is a ride!!!
October 16, 2024
I just finished reading the ARC of Rekindling the Flame, and oh my goodness, it was absolutely adorable! 💖 The playful banter and the strong independent women really stole my heart. The character development was on point, and I loved every little bit of it! I gave it 3 stars because it felt like a cozy, fluffy read—perfect for lifting your spirits if you’re in a reading slump! ✨ The 🌶️ scenes were a tad more intense than I expected, but honestly, I gobbled up every moment! 🥰
October 4, 2024
I’m lucky to have been able to get this as an ARC. I absolutely LOVE this book. I feel like it was just the right amount of spice and story. The grumpy MMC and stronger lawyer FMC was a perfect match. I’m a sucker for rekindled love right when you need it most. I need more stories from this town right now!
October 11, 2024
First of all thank you Madison for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC!
This book had me hooked from the beginning. The second chance Rory gets with both her family and her lost love creates a great storyline with good character growth. And don’t get me started on the spicy scenes 🔥🔥🔥🥵🥵🥵 Everyone’s newest book boyfriend obsession will be Wyatt❤️
Very excited to see where the second book with go!!
This book had me hooked from the beginning. The second chance Rory gets with both her family and her lost love creates a great storyline with good character growth. And don’t get me started on the spicy scenes 🔥🔥🔥🥵🥵🥵 Everyone’s newest book boyfriend obsession will be Wyatt❤️
Very excited to see where the second book with go!!
October 27, 2025
3.5✨ Spicy second chance romance with a touch of reconnecting with family and discovering what’s most important in life.
October 7, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ this book has everything I’m obsessed with: small town, second chance, spice, and Fall vibes?! I couldn’t ask for more!! Calling all Lucy Score lovers, you will also be obsessed! It was hard to put down, I could have easily read this all in one sitting. Dual POV and characters that were so loveable!! I can’t wait for the next one! 😍🥰🔥🧡
October 16, 2024
I was so excited when I was selected for an arc and Madison absolutely did not disappoint!!!
It's like Sweet Home Alabama meets The Last Song meets The Notebook 💜
The characters were relatable, the banter was so fun, and the spice was spicy!
Wyatt Grady is moody and sullen, except for when it comes to Rory. Aurora/Rory was a strong female lead on an apology tour after doing what she needed years before to prioritize herself. I loved that Rory didn't come crawling back to Smoky Heights because she failed/life wasn't going her way - it made her decisions later in the book that much better! Overall, I loved the characters and cannot wait for the next book in the series!!! I would definitely recommend this book if you love small-town romance with a country, mountain vibe (I live in Knoxville, TN and could totally relate to the characters and setting). It was a cute, easy read, despite there being some tough and sensitive topics/situations. Fantastic work, Madison!!! 🤩
P.s. I will never look at a pool cue the same way again 🥵
It's like Sweet Home Alabama meets The Last Song meets The Notebook 💜
The characters were relatable, the banter was so fun, and the spice was spicy!
Wyatt Grady is moody and sullen, except for when it comes to Rory. Aurora/Rory was a strong female lead on an apology tour after doing what she needed years before to prioritize herself. I loved that Rory didn't come crawling back to Smoky Heights because she failed/life wasn't going her way - it made her decisions later in the book that much better! Overall, I loved the characters and cannot wait for the next book in the series!!! I would definitely recommend this book if you love small-town romance with a country, mountain vibe (I live in Knoxville, TN and could totally relate to the characters and setting). It was a cute, easy read, despite there being some tough and sensitive topics/situations. Fantastic work, Madison!!! 🤩
P.s. I will never look at a pool cue the same way again 🥵
October 9, 2024
Very grateful to get an advanced copy of Rekindling The Flame- a lovely small-town, second chance romance.
I haven’t read a small-town novel in a while, but this one was exactly what I needed.
Two loveable lead characters, a lot of spice, and a heartbreaking story of loss and love intertwined amongst it all.
Cannot wait to read the next book in the Smoky Heights series next year!
I haven’t read a small-town novel in a while, but this one was exactly what I needed.
Two loveable lead characters, a lot of spice, and a heartbreaking story of loss and love intertwined amongst it all.
Cannot wait to read the next book in the Smoky Heights series next year!
March 9, 2025
2.8/5
The concept was really good and there were moments I enjoyed a lot. This book had a ton of potential but there were just so many forced moments that came across a little too cringey for me rather than hot.
The concept was really good and there were moments I enjoyed a lot. This book had a ton of potential but there were just so many forced moments that came across a little too cringey for me rather than hot.
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