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Singing River Sound #1
Just Business
Country music star Austin James’ career is slowly unraveling. When faced with an ultimatum, he seeks refuge in small town Alabama.
Maybe its singing river and legendary studio are exactly what he needs to find his way back to himself.
What he doesn’t expect is Penny Miller, the fiercely independent studio owner. She’s filled with a stubborn fire that threatens to burn down every wall he’s built around himself.
Penny is fighting to revive her family’s recording studio and carve out her place in a male dominated industry. A floundering country music star is the last thing she needs.
Penny’s determined to keep things just business with the lines of professionalism firmly in place, but Austin James’ flirty smile and undeniable charm is hard to resist.
Haunted by heartache, she finds her life hitting the same notes as his, their worlds slowly harmonizing in ways she never expected. Their chemistry is undeniable, but so are the risks. Will this be their undoing, or the first verse of something new?
Maybe its singing river and legendary studio are exactly what he needs to find his way back to himself.
What he doesn’t expect is Penny Miller, the fiercely independent studio owner. She’s filled with a stubborn fire that threatens to burn down every wall he’s built around himself.
Penny is fighting to revive her family’s recording studio and carve out her place in a male dominated industry. A floundering country music star is the last thing she needs.
Penny’s determined to keep things just business with the lines of professionalism firmly in place, but Austin James’ flirty smile and undeniable charm is hard to resist.
Haunted by heartache, she finds her life hitting the same notes as his, their worlds slowly harmonizing in ways she never expected. Their chemistry is undeniable, but so are the risks. Will this be their undoing, or the first verse of something new?
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 16, 2025
31 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Cross
4 books41 followersJenny Cross is a lifelong resident of small-town Alabama, where the rhythms of Southern life and the echoes of her hometown’s rich musical legacy inspire her storytelling. Her debut contemporary romance novel, Just Business, releases on May 16 and marks the beginning of her journey as a published author. With heartfelt themes of second chances, redemption, and falling in love when you least expect it, Just Business is a celebration of starting over—and finding your place in the world.
When she’s not crafting swoon-worthy love stories or dreaming up her next fictional escape, Jenny can be found spending time with her husband and their two daughters, or lost in the pages of a romance or fantasy novel. A true book lover at heart, she believes in the magic of a good story and the power of happily ever afters
When she’s not crafting swoon-worthy love stories or dreaming up her next fictional escape, Jenny can be found spending time with her husband and their two daughters, or lost in the pages of a romance or fantasy novel. A true book lover at heart, she believes in the magic of a good story and the power of happily ever afters
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
May 24, 2025
GUYS!!! This debut is FANTASTIC
Gimme a little small town romance with a side of country music star... OH and a female recording studio owner..
YES PLEASE!
This is a beautiful story of healing and romance. It is both raw and real, and the way Jenny touches on some sensitive subjects is done just right.
This book had everything you could want in a small town romance... quirky and fun side characters, a wonderful community, emotion, and swoon worthy moment.
Congratulations Jenny on a fabulous debut!
Can't wait for Book 2!
Gimme a little small town romance with a side of country music star... OH and a female recording studio owner..
YES PLEASE!
This is a beautiful story of healing and romance. It is both raw and real, and the way Jenny touches on some sensitive subjects is done just right.
This book had everything you could want in a small town romance... quirky and fun side characters, a wonderful community, emotion, and swoon worthy moment.
Congratulations Jenny on a fabulous debut!
Can't wait for Book 2!
May 26, 2025
I loved this debut so much and cannot wait to see where this author goes! The writing was so good and I adored the storyline (and of course the setting being in Alabama!) 🎊
I loved Penny and Austin and loved that they both are struggling with different things that you think would ruin them however they’re able to come together and work through them together. Seeing these two interact had me so giddy because from the first moment in the bar I knew the chemistry was there! I loved how caring Austin is and from that first moment of seeing Penny I felt like he was head over heels! Overall, an amazing debut that was swoony, emotional, and will have you giggling! Plus the ending?? Cannot wait to see what’s next!
I loved Penny and Austin and loved that they both are struggling with different things that you think would ruin them however they’re able to come together and work through them together. Seeing these two interact had me so giddy because from the first moment in the bar I knew the chemistry was there! I loved how caring Austin is and from that first moment of seeing Penny I felt like he was head over heels! Overall, an amazing debut that was swoony, emotional, and will have you giggling! Plus the ending?? Cannot wait to see what’s next!
May 4, 2025
Just Business is book 1 in the Singing River Sound series and let me tell you it was absolutely beautiful. As soon as I started this book, I knew Jenny was going to take me on a journey. A journey of love, healing, self discovery and friendship. The way the story unfolds was done perfectly, it unfolds at the right pace, revealing each part of the characters at the appropriate times. Cross’s writing is absolutely beautiful and so easy to get lost in, it just grabs you and makes you feel every single emotion.
Austin & Penny were 2 characters that were deeply hurting in their own way and trying to cope. When they both found each other they found the strength to do it, they healed together and it was absolutely magical. They both brought out the best in each other while also growing individually. Their connection and chemistry was undeniable from the start, their relationship grew at the right speed, every moment had a purpose and just made me fall deeper for these 2. The spice is low in this book, but it was just enough. The author truly focused on the non-physical part of the relationship, which I really appreciated, the little spicy moments just enhanced the chemistry between them.
I commend Jenny for the no drama relationship she created between these 2, it was truly refreshing, a breath of fresh air. It was a beautiful storyline with a great plot and that little twist she added at the end… I can't wait for book 2 !
Overall, this was an absolutely beautiful story. Refreshing, no drama, easy to read and get lost into. A fantastic debut, don't miss out!
✨️Thank you to @authorjennycross for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Austin & Penny were 2 characters that were deeply hurting in their own way and trying to cope. When they both found each other they found the strength to do it, they healed together and it was absolutely magical. They both brought out the best in each other while also growing individually. Their connection and chemistry was undeniable from the start, their relationship grew at the right speed, every moment had a purpose and just made me fall deeper for these 2. The spice is low in this book, but it was just enough. The author truly focused on the non-physical part of the relationship, which I really appreciated, the little spicy moments just enhanced the chemistry between them.
I commend Jenny for the no drama relationship she created between these 2, it was truly refreshing, a breath of fresh air. It was a beautiful storyline with a great plot and that little twist she added at the end… I can't wait for book 2 !
Overall, this was an absolutely beautiful story. Refreshing, no drama, easy to read and get lost into. A fantastic debut, don't miss out!
✨️Thank you to @authorjennycross for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2025
We seem to relish in our ability to wear appropriate social masks. Masking has become a hashtag market and no one is immune to social media's reach. In Jenny Cross' Just Business, Cross explores the immediate and long-term effects of social masking. Austin James (MMC) is a well-known country singer who suffers burnout due to being overworked on his music tour: "...I slip on the familiar mask I've been forced to wear. The mask of a man who isn't drowning. My 'I'm such a lucky guy to be here' mask." Austin has been on a drunk bender for most of his tour, and his manager Tyler, who is also his cousin, informs Austin that he is going to go to a small Alabama town for rest. While Austin is there, he is supposed to work on new songs at a studio that has produced number one songs for legends, like Marty Robbins, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and Chris Stapleton.
The studio is owned and operated by Penny Miller (FMC). She wears her own social masks, but she isn't fooling her friends who know that Penny still mourns the loss of her parents and her career. Penny returned home to care for her pops and settle his estate.
Austin and Penny first meet at a local karaoke bar, then the next day at her studio. This sweet, small-town romance will have your heart keeping beat with the main characters and their family members. The spice level is a frequent 4 out of 5--you don't want to leave the book for unattended young eyes.
The narrative explores how two hurt people comfort each other during their healing journeys. Austin and Penny process their hurt differently. Austin self medicates with alcohol. Penny overworks herself and leaves her childhood home untouched for fear of forgetting her parents.
Can these two hurting people stay together? Can love be enough when hurting people harm those they love?
I look forward to the next novel in this series. Cross takes the reader to therapy while also entertaining the reader with Girls Night Out antics and tender family moments. This is a 5-Star read.
Thank you #JennyCross for my eARC read. This is my honest review.
The studio is owned and operated by Penny Miller (FMC). She wears her own social masks, but she isn't fooling her friends who know that Penny still mourns the loss of her parents and her career. Penny returned home to care for her pops and settle his estate.
Austin and Penny first meet at a local karaoke bar, then the next day at her studio. This sweet, small-town romance will have your heart keeping beat with the main characters and their family members. The spice level is a frequent 4 out of 5--you don't want to leave the book for unattended young eyes.
The narrative explores how two hurt people comfort each other during their healing journeys. Austin and Penny process their hurt differently. Austin self medicates with alcohol. Penny overworks herself and leaves her childhood home untouched for fear of forgetting her parents.
Can these two hurting people stay together? Can love be enough when hurting people harm those they love?
I look forward to the next novel in this series. Cross takes the reader to therapy while also entertaining the reader with Girls Night Out antics and tender family moments. This is a 5-Star read.
Thank you #JennyCross for my eARC read. This is my honest review.
May 8, 2025
“That river of yours will bring me home.”
Just Business was such a beautiful ride for me with the main characters both coping with major events that happened in their lives and being there for each other without pushing. Jenny Cross had a wonderful representation of alcohol addiction, domestic abuse and death of parents that was handled with such care and grace which made this book even better. I very much enjoyed the women owned business light as well! The family and friends of Austin and Penny were instant favorite characters which makes me so excited for the next books. The most refreshing part? There was no third act breakup to make me sob it was a happy, easy and fun read with the characters always being there for each other when life got rough. The plot twist at the end had my jaw on the floor, I’ll be waiting for book two!
Just Business was such a beautiful ride for me with the main characters both coping with major events that happened in their lives and being there for each other without pushing. Jenny Cross had a wonderful representation of alcohol addiction, domestic abuse and death of parents that was handled with such care and grace which made this book even better. I very much enjoyed the women owned business light as well! The family and friends of Austin and Penny were instant favorite characters which makes me so excited for the next books. The most refreshing part? There was no third act breakup to make me sob it was a happy, easy and fun read with the characters always being there for each other when life got rough. The plot twist at the end had my jaw on the floor, I’ll be waiting for book two!
September 20, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! I can’t wait for the next one to come out now!
Read
May 16, 2025I ended up DNFing the book, BUT that is all a “me” thing and not really a reflection of the book itself.
If you like Hallmark movies and A Star is Born vibes then this book is absolutely for you! As I was reading I could practically see the Lacey Chabert-esqe commercial and the Bradley Cooper drunk stage swaying lol.
It wasn’t my jam, I read maybe 40% of it and honestly life is too short to keep reading a book when you know it’s not for you.
If you like Hallmark movies and A Star is Born vibes then this book is absolutely for you! As I was reading I could practically see the Lacey Chabert-esqe commercial and the Bradley Cooper drunk stage swaying lol.
It wasn’t my jam, I read maybe 40% of it and honestly life is too short to keep reading a book when you know it’s not for you.
May 19, 2025
Ohhhhhmygosh I loved this book!!!! I'm always dubious about romance centred books but this was PHENOMENAL. I absolutely loved the plot, the characters, the END (despite me never wanting it to end). I truly flew through this book due to the effortlessly enrapturing writing style and the really likeable characters. The setting, the people, the COMMUNITY being written and represented so well (I feel like each character was given enough book-time allowing for the reader to truly feel like part of the world). This was an unforgettable read for me and a DEFINITE recommendation to small town romance and celebrity romance lovers. I felt like part of the story and I found it to be so heartwarming and authentic in a way that so few books manage to achieve. The chemistry between the leads felt real, not forced or overdone, but deeply rooted in shared moments, growth, and vulnerability. Jenny Cross managed to balance humor, tension, and emotion perfectly, and I was genuinely invested in every page. The themes of healing, connection, and finding love in unexpected places were beautifully handled, and the way the story tackled fame and small-town dynamics was both refreshing and insightful. Honestly, this wasn’t just a romance it was an experience. I’ll be thinking about this one for a long time!!!
May 17, 2025
Rating: 4.5⭐️ | Spice: 2🌶️
What to Expect:
Small Town Romance
Country Singer x Studio Owner
Traumatic Past
Broken Golden Retriever
He Falls First & Hard
Mental Health & Grief Rep
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Slow Burn to Spice
Thank you so much @authorjennycross for allowing me the absolute privilege to BETA read for you! I freaking love you completely and can’t wait for the world to read your words!
“Dream big, Penny girl!”
Review Title & Vibes:
{JUST READ IT} This is not your typical debut. It’s instantly one of my favorite small town romance reads. A sexy struggling country artist meets his match with a small town recording studio owner. Traumatic pasts are healed. The chemistry jumps off the page. Side characters are supportive and will have you craving for their own stories (thank God this is a series… *humble* bragging that I’m alpha reading Book 2). It’s got the perfect amount of spice and emotional depth. DO NOT WAIT TO READ THIS!
Things I Loved:
•Penny is a total boss babe. She was left with a mess and made the sacrifices to clean it up. But not only that - she gets her man, reignites her dream, and lands a swoon-worthy goose bumping inducing HEA.
•Austin is my new favorite book boyfriend. Sexy, flawed (but doesn’t stay that way), cooks, compliments, supports - Penny deserves nothing less.
•Side characters for the win. Josie and Cassie - every good book needs this girl gang. Jackson - Penny’s gay bestie shamelessly obsessed with Austin. Tyler - Clark Kent/Superman lookalike but the music manager version.
•Original song that accompanies this book - YES!!!!
Recommended to...
Small town romance readers who love a boss babe paired with a sexy country sing
What to Expect:
Small Town Romance
Country Singer x Studio Owner
Traumatic Past
Broken Golden Retriever
He Falls First & Hard
Mental Health & Grief Rep
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Slow Burn to Spice
Thank you so much @authorjennycross for allowing me the absolute privilege to BETA read for you! I freaking love you completely and can’t wait for the world to read your words!
“Dream big, Penny girl!”
Review Title & Vibes:
{JUST READ IT} This is not your typical debut. It’s instantly one of my favorite small town romance reads. A sexy struggling country artist meets his match with a small town recording studio owner. Traumatic pasts are healed. The chemistry jumps off the page. Side characters are supportive and will have you craving for their own stories (thank God this is a series… *humble* bragging that I’m alpha reading Book 2). It’s got the perfect amount of spice and emotional depth. DO NOT WAIT TO READ THIS!
Things I Loved:
•Penny is a total boss babe. She was left with a mess and made the sacrifices to clean it up. But not only that - she gets her man, reignites her dream, and lands a swoon-worthy goose bumping inducing HEA.
•Austin is my new favorite book boyfriend. Sexy, flawed (but doesn’t stay that way), cooks, compliments, supports - Penny deserves nothing less.
•Side characters for the win. Josie and Cassie - every good book needs this girl gang. Jackson - Penny’s gay bestie shamelessly obsessed with Austin. Tyler - Clark Kent/Superman lookalike but the music manager version.
•Original song that accompanies this book - YES!!!!
Recommended to...
Small town romance readers who love a boss babe paired with a sexy country sing
June 8, 2025
4.5 rounded up
Y’all my friend wrote a book and it’s an absolutely stunning debut novel! I got to alpha read this for Jenny and then read it again and I loved it both times! This book is set in a fictional town similar to the one we live in and I loved it so much. I’m a sucker for a small town romance, but I loved this one even more because it felt so familiar and just like home.
I loved Austin and Penny so much! I need more country music star romances in my life. Austin has had a tough life and has his own demons and struggles. I really enjoyed watching him let this small town rub off on him and open him up to working on himself and becoming the best man he could. And I loved Penny. I loved that she was the owner of the recording studio and she just truly felt like she could be my best friend. I also loved that these two never tried to fix each other or solve each other’s problems. They simply supported each other and provided advice and encouragement.
I love this small town so much (I mean duh I basically actually live here). But I love all the characters so much. And I cannot wait for book 2 (the epilogue will have you anxiously awaiting it for sure).
Thank you Jenny for letting me ARC read for you! I’m so thankful for bookstagram because without it I wouldn’t know Jenn 💛
👍🏻Read If You Like:
•country music
•small town romances
•forced proximity
•found family
🛑Content Warnings
•alcoholism
•abusive father (in past)
•loss of parents (in past)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️Open Door Romance
🚪Closed Door Mods: end of Ch. 11 (very brief mention), End of ch. 24, Last half of ch. 26, Beginning & end of ch. 33
Y’all my friend wrote a book and it’s an absolutely stunning debut novel! I got to alpha read this for Jenny and then read it again and I loved it both times! This book is set in a fictional town similar to the one we live in and I loved it so much. I’m a sucker for a small town romance, but I loved this one even more because it felt so familiar and just like home.
I loved Austin and Penny so much! I need more country music star romances in my life. Austin has had a tough life and has his own demons and struggles. I really enjoyed watching him let this small town rub off on him and open him up to working on himself and becoming the best man he could. And I loved Penny. I loved that she was the owner of the recording studio and she just truly felt like she could be my best friend. I also loved that these two never tried to fix each other or solve each other’s problems. They simply supported each other and provided advice and encouragement.
I love this small town so much (I mean duh I basically actually live here). But I love all the characters so much. And I cannot wait for book 2 (the epilogue will have you anxiously awaiting it for sure).
Thank you Jenny for letting me ARC read for you! I’m so thankful for bookstagram because without it I wouldn’t know Jenn 💛
👍🏻Read If You Like:
•country music
•small town romances
•forced proximity
•found family
🛑Content Warnings
•alcoholism
•abusive father (in past)
•loss of parents (in past)
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️Open Door Romance
🚪Closed Door Mods: end of Ch. 11 (very brief mention), End of ch. 24, Last half of ch. 26, Beginning & end of ch. 33
Read
May 10, 2025DNF
I had to DNF this at 30% for the sake of my sanity. The writing style was killing me. Every time a new character appeared, we’d get a massive info-dump flashback about how they knew one of the leads and why they were the bestest of friends, which dragged the pacing to a crawl.
Let’s talk about Austin, the MMC. He’s supposedly an alcoholic… but not really, because he can stop whenever he wants to. So, according to the book, he’s not actually an alcoholic — he just drinks a lot. And guess what? Spending time with the FMC magically makes him not want to drink, so poof — he’s cured! The complete lack of depth or realism in how addiction was treated made it hard to take seriously.
He’s also stuck in this weird funk where he’s drunk most of the time and apparently hates the music his label makes him sing… but somehow he’s also been writing amazing songs on the side? And not just rough drafts — like, full, polished songs that he casually brings to her studio and records without any creative struggle. Where’s the internal conflict? Where’s the process of trying to write something meaningful? Nope, he just shows up with everything ready to go like some tortured genius on autopilot.
And the FMC pretending she doesn’t know who he is just to knock his ego down a peg WHILE telling him she owns a music studio?? It was beyond cringey and made her come across as completely unprofessional. Then there's the door scene — she acts like him closing the door in her face is an unforgivable crime, and from that moment on he’s the Worst Man Alive™. Add in some bizarre outrage because the bartender dared to notice Austin instead of her and… yeah. I couldn’t do it.
On top of all that, the writing just didn’t work for me. Clunky, overly explanatory, and lacking in any real charm or tension. Definitely not putting myself through the rest of this.
I had to DNF this at 30% for the sake of my sanity. The writing style was killing me. Every time a new character appeared, we’d get a massive info-dump flashback about how they knew one of the leads and why they were the bestest of friends, which dragged the pacing to a crawl.
Let’s talk about Austin, the MMC. He’s supposedly an alcoholic… but not really, because he can stop whenever he wants to. So, according to the book, he’s not actually an alcoholic — he just drinks a lot. And guess what? Spending time with the FMC magically makes him not want to drink, so poof — he’s cured! The complete lack of depth or realism in how addiction was treated made it hard to take seriously.
He’s also stuck in this weird funk where he’s drunk most of the time and apparently hates the music his label makes him sing… but somehow he’s also been writing amazing songs on the side? And not just rough drafts — like, full, polished songs that he casually brings to her studio and records without any creative struggle. Where’s the internal conflict? Where’s the process of trying to write something meaningful? Nope, he just shows up with everything ready to go like some tortured genius on autopilot.
And the FMC pretending she doesn’t know who he is just to knock his ego down a peg WHILE telling him she owns a music studio?? It was beyond cringey and made her come across as completely unprofessional. Then there's the door scene — she acts like him closing the door in her face is an unforgivable crime, and from that moment on he’s the Worst Man Alive™. Add in some bizarre outrage because the bartender dared to notice Austin instead of her and… yeah. I couldn’t do it.
On top of all that, the writing just didn’t work for me. Clunky, overly explanatory, and lacking in any real charm or tension. Definitely not putting myself through the rest of this.
May 15, 2025
Loved it (rounded up)
🔥Small town
🔥Country music star x studio owner
🔥Broken golden retriever
🔥He falls first & hard
🔥Slow burn to spice
What a beautiful start to the Singing River Sound series. Both Austin and Penny are navigating deep emotional trauma. Austin from an abusive childhood/father that led to alcoholism, and Penny from the grief of losing her mother, then her alcoholic father. The themes are heavy and heartbreaking, but so thoughtfully handled. The story beautifully explores how grief manifests differently for everyone, with no “right” way to experience it or work through it.
This is the kind of romance where the FMC and MMC find each other at exactly the right moment. They don’t just make each other better, they want to be better, for themselves and for one another. Their connection is built on true understanding and support.
It’s a true slow burn with low spice, but their bond is solidly emotional before it ever turns physical. And let me tell you, when it does, it’s absolutely worth the wait. I recently read another book that lacked conflict or tension, and it left me feeling underwhelmed. But Jenny Cross pulled off something rare: a story with no major breakup or drama that still felt like a hard-earned HEA. Far from feeling "meh," I closed this book completely satisfied.
The side characters were fantastic. I loved the female-owned and -operated music studio, and the mix of found and blood family felt just right. I have a great feeling about this series.
And that twist at the very end? I gasped. Literally. I need book 2 ASAP.
Thank you to Jenny Cross and The Author Agency for the ARC!
🔥Small town
🔥Country music star x studio owner
🔥Broken golden retriever
🔥He falls first & hard
🔥Slow burn to spice
What a beautiful start to the Singing River Sound series. Both Austin and Penny are navigating deep emotional trauma. Austin from an abusive childhood/father that led to alcoholism, and Penny from the grief of losing her mother, then her alcoholic father. The themes are heavy and heartbreaking, but so thoughtfully handled. The story beautifully explores how grief manifests differently for everyone, with no “right” way to experience it or work through it.
This is the kind of romance where the FMC and MMC find each other at exactly the right moment. They don’t just make each other better, they want to be better, for themselves and for one another. Their connection is built on true understanding and support.
It’s a true slow burn with low spice, but their bond is solidly emotional before it ever turns physical. And let me tell you, when it does, it’s absolutely worth the wait. I recently read another book that lacked conflict or tension, and it left me feeling underwhelmed. But Jenny Cross pulled off something rare: a story with no major breakup or drama that still felt like a hard-earned HEA. Far from feeling "meh," I closed this book completely satisfied.
The side characters were fantastic. I loved the female-owned and -operated music studio, and the mix of found and blood family felt just right. I have a great feeling about this series.
And that twist at the very end? I gasped. Literally. I need book 2 ASAP.
Thank you to Jenny Cross and The Author Agency for the ARC!
May 21, 2025
This was such a cute little small town romance that despite the demons, left you in a feel-good mood.
I’m a sucker for country music and romance so i absolutely loved this story of Austin, the famous country singer with a drinking problem and Penny, the smart studio owner/sound technician from a small town in Alabama.
Singing River just sounds like a place that I want to go to and live. I love small town romances so I am probably biased.
I loved the epilogue for the details (no spoilers) and the epic plot twist that I didn’t see coming that set up for another interconnected standalone book!
I’m a sucker for country music and romance so i absolutely loved this story of Austin, the famous country singer with a drinking problem and Penny, the smart studio owner/sound technician from a small town in Alabama.
Singing River just sounds like a place that I want to go to and live. I love small town romances so I am probably biased.
I loved the epilogue for the details (no spoilers) and the epic plot twist that I didn’t see coming that set up for another interconnected standalone book!
May 26, 2025
Great debut novel! Thank you to author Jenny Cross for the opportunity to read this eARC!!
A sweet, small-town romance that also tackles the heavier topics of grief and healing. Austin & Penny found each other in a forced proximity situation, celebrity singer meets small-town studio owner. Slow burn, he falls first, golden retriever MMC... what more can you ask for??
While I'm not a fan of country music, that did not detract from the overall story at all.
I loved the background information on the recording studio - such a nice touch!
A sweet, small-town romance that also tackles the heavier topics of grief and healing. Austin & Penny found each other in a forced proximity situation, celebrity singer meets small-town studio owner. Slow burn, he falls first, golden retriever MMC... what more can you ask for??
While I'm not a fan of country music, that did not detract from the overall story at all.
I loved the background information on the recording studio - such a nice touch!
May 27, 2025
Not only do I adore Jenny Cross, but I am blown away by her debut novel!!! 🤯🥹🥰 I loved the story building and the connection between the main characters was sooo good!! More importantly…the character’s life stories tugged at my heart and I loved watching Austin & Penny overcome their struggles! 🫶🏼
Giving this a solid 4.5/5 ⭐️!!! My only wish was to have Austin and his father have a face to face moment at the end. A swift punch in the face would’ve been nice, hehe!
Thank you Jenny for this story and I cannot WAIT for BOOK 2!!!
Giving this a solid 4.5/5 ⭐️!!! My only wish was to have Austin and his father have a face to face moment at the end. A swift punch in the face would’ve been nice, hehe!
Thank you Jenny for this story and I cannot WAIT for BOOK 2!!!
May 6, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up for this lil cutie!!! I am a sucker for a music-themed romance and this one was such a treat! Based in “Singing River” (really The Shoals area of northwest Alabama), Penny is a studio owner mourning the loss of her parents. Austin is a country star who gives off self-confidence and arrogance for the press, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. When a break from the road leads him to the famous small-town recording studio and the fiery red-headed Penny in Singing River, he finds everything he didn’t know he was looking for. I HIGHLY recommend this swoon-worthy debut novel from Jenny Cross and cannot wait for the second book in the series!
May 14, 2025
Wow. This might go down as one of my favorite romances ever. What a beautiful start to a brand new series! First off, the communication that Austin and Penny have??? AMAZING. They both have had their fair share of trials and heartbreak growing up and I loved how they each grew into a better person. This had me glued to my kindle all day, couldn’t put it down. If you need a fresh romance, I will be recommending this one forever now. Thank you so much Jenny for letting me read this early!
July 13, 2025
Let me tell yall! This debut novel was amazing! I could feel the emotions within the characters, so much so I was in tears in parts. The story is so real and deals with deep issues in a beautiful way. Jenny Cross told a beautiful story while also touching on things like mental health and its importance. I truly loved this book and these characters and I cannot wait for the next book to come out!!
May 16, 2025
This book seriously gave me all the feels in the best way. If you’re into forced proximity, small town romance, found family vibes, and a slow burn that finally delivers - this one’s for you.
Austin and Penny were both dealing with some heavy stuff, but I loved how real and relatable they felt. Austin totally gave “he falls first” energy, and I was here for it. The way they communicated and supported each other just made their connection feel so genuine!
Austin and Penny were both dealing with some heavy stuff, but I loved how real and relatable they felt. Austin totally gave “he falls first” energy, and I was here for it. The way they communicated and supported each other just made their connection feel so genuine!
May 16, 2025
Austin and Penny
I’d say that this book is for those who love a good romance with some music thrown in. Both Austin and Penny had been through the wringer dealing with some hard issues in their past. With Austin, making music was everything to him and Penny’s studio was just the place to make it happen. These two had a great connection and made this book a true romance read.
I’d say that this book is for those who love a good romance with some music thrown in. Both Austin and Penny had been through the wringer dealing with some hard issues in their past. With Austin, making music was everything to him and Penny’s studio was just the place to make it happen. These two had a great connection and made this book a true romance read.
May 19, 2025
Five stars. No notes.
This book had me laughing out loud and crying in moments. What a beautiful story of redemption, family and what love (and a little therapy) can do for the healing process.
I was obsessed with Austin & Penny!
Being from Alabama, this captured my heart with little references and culture mentions.
I cannot wait to see where this series is headed!
This book had me laughing out loud and crying in moments. What a beautiful story of redemption, family and what love (and a little therapy) can do for the healing process.
I was obsessed with Austin & Penny!
Being from Alabama, this captured my heart with little references and culture mentions.
I cannot wait to see where this series is headed!
May 14, 2025
“ That river of yours will bring me back home.”
I loved this book so much!! The perfect Summer read. I felt so connected with Penny and Austin. Their banter was perfect. Spice was spicing, and the twist at the end had me shook! Jenny really outdid herself on her debut novel! Bravo! I cannot wait for the rest of this series.
I loved this book so much!! The perfect Summer read. I felt so connected with Penny and Austin. Their banter was perfect. Spice was spicing, and the twist at the end had me shook! Jenny really outdid herself on her debut novel! Bravo! I cannot wait for the rest of this series.
July 17, 2025
emotional debut
Absolutely loved this debut from Jenny Cross. Characters were amazing and going though some heavy emotions that Jenny deftly handled. Looking forward to her next book in the series!
Absolutely loved this debut from Jenny Cross. Characters were amazing and going though some heavy emotions that Jenny deftly handled. Looking forward to her next book in the series!
November 6, 2025
4 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you to Hayling Bookstorm Ltd. for my copy!
What a great book! It most definitely hit the spot, right when I needed it to.
This book is full of so much character development, for not just the main characters, but a whole bunch of the side characters too. It all takes place in the cutest little town, where all of the members take care of their own. There is a bit of a meddling vibe, but it’s more so of a protective one.
I was hooked right from the beginning until the end. I knew I was going to love the FMC’s feisty personality and the concept that the MMC was going to allow her to be seen, heard, protected, and loved. The MMC was a bit broken and burnt out at the beginning and that all got turned upside down when the FMC came after him in a parking lot and told him off.
I was blown away by that ending, I did not see it coming at all and I can’t wait to see what happens next in book two.
You get:
🎸Contemporary Romance
🌻Open Door Spice
🎸Small Town
🌻Celebrity MMC
🎸Forced Proximity
🌻Past Trauma
🎸Feisty FMC
I highly recommend this one! Available on KU, ebook, and paperback.
Thank you to Hayling Bookstorm Ltd. for my copy!
What a great book! It most definitely hit the spot, right when I needed it to.
This book is full of so much character development, for not just the main characters, but a whole bunch of the side characters too. It all takes place in the cutest little town, where all of the members take care of their own. There is a bit of a meddling vibe, but it’s more so of a protective one.
I was hooked right from the beginning until the end. I knew I was going to love the FMC’s feisty personality and the concept that the MMC was going to allow her to be seen, heard, protected, and loved. The MMC was a bit broken and burnt out at the beginning and that all got turned upside down when the FMC came after him in a parking lot and told him off.
I was blown away by that ending, I did not see it coming at all and I can’t wait to see what happens next in book two.
You get:
🎸Contemporary Romance
🌻Open Door Spice
🎸Small Town
🌻Celebrity MMC
🎸Forced Proximity
🌻Past Trauma
🎸Feisty FMC
I highly recommend this one! Available on KU, ebook, and paperback.
May 27, 2025
Where do I start?! I absolutely adore everything about this book. I’m always a big fan of music infused romances, and the premise of this one was so creative! Austin and Penny were both easy to connect with and I loved the emotional depth of each character, as well as their growing relationship. This was perfectly paced, with the best kind of slow burn. It’s an all-around sweet and swoony love story with some heavy topics woven into it. The setting gave me all the nostalgic vibes, and I really enjoyed the side characters. I’m so excited for the rest of this series!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 ⇣
Small town
Country music star x studio owner
Broken golden retriever
He falls first & hard
Slow burn
Mental health rep
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Grief
Dual POV
Spice
Thank you so much Jenny, for the ARC!
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 ⇣
Small town
Country music star x studio owner
Broken golden retriever
He falls first & hard
Slow burn
Mental health rep
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Grief
Dual POV
Spice
Thank you so much Jenny, for the ARC!
May 16, 2025
ARC READER!
Austin James, and Penny Miller are the duo I never knew I needed! This book had several moments that had me crying. From the raw emotions and the pain of grief, the healing, and the love.. Two broken people who learn to heal, and find the happiness they both deserve.
Don’t miss this small town romance, where he falls first! A slow burn, with a little spice, forced proximity, and found family!
Austin James, and Penny Miller are the duo I never knew I needed! This book had several moments that had me crying. From the raw emotions and the pain of grief, the healing, and the love.. Two broken people who learn to heal, and find the happiness they both deserve.
Don’t miss this small town romance, where he falls first! A slow burn, with a little spice, forced proximity, and found family!
May 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC Review! Just business was adorable, and I really enjoyed this book. Austin comes from a difficult background and rises to fame before he fully deals with the issues of his past. His life seemingly is falling all around him. His brother from another mother (cousin) sends him to a small town that he says will change his life.
Penny lives in a small town in Alabama as she tries to fix the damage her dad has left for her. She is determined to fix this on her own…. Then in walks Austin James.
These two try to fight their feelings but it is hopeless. They find healing in each other and it blossoms into a beautiful love story.
🌶️🌶️/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC Review! Just business was adorable, and I really enjoyed this book. Austin comes from a difficult background and rises to fame before he fully deals with the issues of his past. His life seemingly is falling all around him. His brother from another mother (cousin) sends him to a small town that he says will change his life.
Penny lives in a small town in Alabama as she tries to fix the damage her dad has left for her. She is determined to fix this on her own…. Then in walks Austin James.
These two try to fight their feelings but it is hopeless. They find healing in each other and it blossoms into a beautiful love story.
May 26, 2025
**ARC** This book takes you on a journey. I was giddy and giggling one minute, fanning myself the next, and later tearing up. Loved Austin and Penny!! My only issue was that there were quite a few longer chapters, but that’s just a mental block for me, personally. I’m one of these people that will sit there and read five 5-minute chapters in a row, but when I flip a page and find the next chapter is 25 minutes, my mind freaks out and I can’t commit. That’s totally on me though. Overall, great read and I can’t wait for the next! And Jenny girl, that epilogue got me!
May 12, 2025
I had the absolute pleasure to beta and then arc read Just Business from Jenny Cross and had the best time.
Austin may be a famous country singer, but internally he is struggling with family issues and alcoholism. After taking a suggestion from his manager, he heads to small town Alabama to a semi famous recording studio to spend time away from the limelight and try to get his head straight. What he did not expect was Penny.
Penny is the owner of the recording studio after her parents passed away. As she and Austin spend more time together while he is in the recording booth, they both find it hard to separate their feelings from each other.
I love this book wholeheartedly. I found Jenny's representations of parental death and alcoholism realistic and thoughtful. I loved how both characters were trying to work through their trauma with each other as the life rafts in the storm. The slow burn was equally delicious and had me craving their eventual consummation of their relationship. Once the spice hit? I was kicking my feet and swooning with Penny.
Also. The hints at the next stories coming from this small town are fantastic and I cannot wait to head back! If you love celebrity romances with a lot of forced proximity and so much heart, please check out Jenny's debut romance!
Thank you so much Jenny for the early copy of Just Business!
Tropes:
Singer MMC/Producer FMC
Small Town
Neighbors
Forced Proximity
Hurt & Comfort
Austin may be a famous country singer, but internally he is struggling with family issues and alcoholism. After taking a suggestion from his manager, he heads to small town Alabama to a semi famous recording studio to spend time away from the limelight and try to get his head straight. What he did not expect was Penny.
Penny is the owner of the recording studio after her parents passed away. As she and Austin spend more time together while he is in the recording booth, they both find it hard to separate their feelings from each other.
I love this book wholeheartedly. I found Jenny's representations of parental death and alcoholism realistic and thoughtful. I loved how both characters were trying to work through their trauma with each other as the life rafts in the storm. The slow burn was equally delicious and had me craving their eventual consummation of their relationship. Once the spice hit? I was kicking my feet and swooning with Penny.
Also. The hints at the next stories coming from this small town are fantastic and I cannot wait to head back! If you love celebrity romances with a lot of forced proximity and so much heart, please check out Jenny's debut romance!
Thank you so much Jenny for the early copy of Just Business!
Tropes:
Singer MMC/Producer FMC
Small Town
Neighbors
Forced Proximity
Hurt & Comfort
May 26, 2025
I received an ARC of this book, and I absolutely loved it! This is not my usual type of read, but I am from the Shoals area(the town the book is loosely based on) so I knew I just had to read it…and it did not disappoint! I love the love story between these two…the slow burn…the little bit of spiciness…it’s just perfect from start to finish! Can’t wait to read the next one already!
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