It Was Nothing

Seddledowne #5

by Susan Henshaw

A Small Town, Marriage of Convenience, Country Music Star romance from Amazon bestselling author Susan Henshaw.

He could give her the world. All she wants is his last name.

Ford

Two Grammys, sold-out arenas, and more money than I know what to do with. It’s everything I dreamed of.

Well…almost.

No matter how many times I propose, my best friend keeps shooting me down. After her latest ’no,’ I finally get the message.

Then Peyton shows up in tears, looking at me like I'm her only hope—before slowly sinking to one knee herself.



Peyton

Do I love Ford as a friend? Yes. As something more?

It’s irrelevant.

What I want stopped mattering the day I saw two pink lines staring back at me.

When my ex sues for custody, and I lose my house and my job in the same week, the judge is thirty days to get my life together—or lose my son too.

Now I have to convince my perpetually-proposing best friend to fake a marriage and pretend he's okay with 'I do' meaning 'I don’t.’

Because if Ford finds out the secret I’ve been keeping, it wouldn't just make him run—it would erase every 'I love you' he's ever meant.


It Was Nothing, the final book in The Seddledowne series of interconnected standalones, is a dual timeline, angsty, emotional, contemporary romance full of banter, steam, and a secret big enough to blow the entire Dupree family apart. Download and enjoy this wild ride today!

“If you enjoy TV shows like Virgin River or Sweet Magnolias, this series is for you!” –Amazon reviewer

Genres: Marriage Of Convenience, Romance, Second Chance, Clean Romance, Marriage, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2025

Reviews

[Suzan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it!

After the way ‘Here’s the Thing’ concluded, I have been anxiously waiting for Ford’s story. It was SO good and even better than I had anticipated!

I loved Ford! He is fun, flawed, and he loves fiercely. The way he loved Peyton so deeply, persistently, and intensely was wonderful. I’m a huge fan of redemption stories, and I think what I loved most about Ford was how he turned his life around.

Ford is a successful country singer with everything he dreamed of, except getting his best friend and the love of his life to marry him. He’s proposed several times, but she always turns him down.

Peyton cares deeply for Ford, but has turned his proposals down for a few different reasons. When her ex threatens to take away her son the same week she loses her job and her house, she proposes marriage to him, but a marriage in name only.

Ford doesn’t want to be in a fake marriage with Peyton, but his family convinces him that this might be the best way to win Peyton over for real.

This is a beautiful, emotional, and heartfelt love story. There are happy moments, some extremely swoony ones, but there are also some hard things that happen. The author handles them with sensitivity, insight, and empathy.

The writing, the pacing, the storyline, the fleshed out characters, the depth and substance, were all exceptional. Highly recommend this one.

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Was Nothing is the fifth book in The Seddledown Series. While this could likely be enjoyed as a standalone as well, I think readers will get the most out of this story if they read the series in order. The Dupree family has had a lot of complicated history and drama to get to this point, and I think readers will especially appreciate how far Ford has come if they first see where he started.

Beautiful, absolutely beautiful...it's as simple as that. From the moment I read the first book in this series, I absolutely fell in love with the Dupree family. They were certainly a family that had their fair share of issues throughout this series... but there was also so much love. Ford was definitely a character that I was intrigued by throughout the series, and especially after the last book, I found myself looking forward to seeing his story. Not only did it not disappoint, but it absolutely blew every expectation I had had out of the water. Throughout the series, we have seen the progress of Ford and Peyton's relationship...which has been complicated to say the least. As the story picks up, they are best friends, but Ford's love for her is abundantly clear... he repeatedly asks her to marry him and she repeatedly turns him down... until her cheating ex-husband takes custody of her 13-year-old son, and she needs to get married to get him back. Ford seems to be getting everything he ever wanted, but she's keeping a big secret that could change everything. I won't give too much away, but again, their story was absolutely beautiful. None of the Deprees has really had an easy happily ever after, but Ford's is absolutely the most hard-fought. This truly was such a redemption story for Ford (especially with the epilogue). He'd had a difficult past filled with addiction and lots of women, and as such, it wasn't an easy read by any means, but it is having seen that journey that made the ending all that much better. I absolutely loved this story and found myself unable to put it down. This one is easily a new all-time favorite for me.

It Was Nothing is a closed-door romance with fade-to-black/implied intimacy. There is a good deal of innuendo, some minor language, mentions of drug use, one nights stands, etc. that may toe that line of what some closed-door readers may be comfortable with, BUT it is handled well and so important to Ford's story. While this story is NOT a Christian romance, there are a few mentions of God and church throughout and particularly in the epilogue. While the author notes that you can skip that if it's not your thing, I personally thought it was the perfect ending to Ford's redemption story and highly recommend it, particularly for Christian readers. I loved the story even before we reached that point, but it was this moment that really solidified it as a favorite.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Kyliegh · Rating 2 out of 5]

This hurts to write because I really did love the rest of the series.

DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER IF YOU DON’T WANT TO KNOW PAYTON’S SECRET

I wasn’t really feeling invested in this book from the beginning. Payton continually used Ford and then treated him like crap when he agreed to marry her to help her keep custody of her son…who was also his son and had she been honest from the beginning the whole custody issue wouldn’t have been an issue. His drug use was not a valid reason for not telling him about HIS son, especially since a judge would have given her custody anyway. She married a man she didn’t love (not sure why) so no one would find out that Cash was Ford’s. She then becomes Ford’s best friend and all those years still refused to tell him about his son. I also didn’t like that his brothers didn’t take his side and understand why he was angry that Payton lied to him for over a decade.

I also wasn’t a huge fan of how Christianity was portrayed in this story and would have preferred it be left out all together. It just seemed very shallow and not the true life changing redemption that can be found through Jesus.

The sneak peek for Charlie and Cash’s story makes me think the next book won’t be for me either. She comes back supposedly married, makes out with Cash in front of their whole family and new husband, and the whole family cheers for them? If my daughter did that I’d smack her upside the head.

[Tatum - nuggetybooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ford Dupree & Peyton Jamerson
- Dual POV
- Marriage of connivence
- Country singer MMC
- Single mom, nurse, fitness teacher FMC
- Second chance
- Best friends to more
- So much drama & plot twists 😅
- Found family

✨ a few of my favorite things :
- the Dupree family. ‘Nough said.
- Ford’s deep desire to be a husband and dad
- Peyton & Lemon’s close knit relationship
- The family bonding throughout the book between brothers, cousins, in-laws. The way this family loves is so big and all consuming
- Cash & Ford
- The bro beach day 😂🥹
- How thoughtful Ford is
- Ford’s redemption ARC & sobriety story
- THE EPILOGUE. Ford & Peyton’s plans in the epilogue. The family’s presentations. Chuck vs “Fun Size”
- The epilogue two was beautiful 🥹 and full of God’s Good News
- The bonus scene!!!! Holy crap! Go Cash!!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 5 of the Seddledowne Series - ugh. Poor Ford. That is the best way I could sum up this book. 😅😂 Ford makes colossal mistakes and they eat at him as he’s trying desperately to make things right. Peyton loves Ford so so deeply but holds herself back because of HUGE fears. Ford pursues her with everything he has. He loves big and loud and completely.

Cash. Sweet Cash. I can’t wait for his book and I loved the bonding between Cash and Ford. Made me tear up. I love how Ford teaches him anything he wants to know and teaches him how to stick up for himself against merciless teasing from a crush 😉

That honeymoon was ROOOOUUUUGGGHHHH 🫠

Freaking hate Braxton. There I said it. I’ve hated him since book one. Wish Ford would have punched his face in a little bit 🤷🏻‍♀️ he’s a terrible character (I know that’s the point but still. GAHHHH).

Jenny. Sweet well meaning Jenny. Is there any time she doesn’t overreact? 😂🤦🏻‍♀️ but I loved how gracious Peyton was. I also really appreciated how thoughtful Peyton was with every choice she made. I disagreed with some her decisions but a really appreciated that she didn’t make them lightly.

As with all the books in this series, it is a contemporary romance with some suspense and lots of drama. There is innuendo, discussions of sex, and some mild cursing. There are nondescript, short fade to blacks. This book has more faith themes than the other books but God is woven throughout the whole series. Author has a note and content warnings at the beginning of the book.

10/10 will be rereading this series for many years to come!!

Songs:
Trouble by Erin Kinsey
CWJBHN by Jake Scott
Dangerous by Sleep token
Provider by Sleep Token
Past Self by Sleep Token
Take Aim by Sleep Token
Where’d that girl go by Morgan Wallen
Forever and a day by Benson Boone
The love you want by Sleep Token
I’m Fakin by Sabrina Carpenter
What a man gotta do by Jonas Brothers
I wanna be the one you call by Benson Boone
Dangerous by Morgan Wallen
Rumor by Lee Brice
Drunk in my mind by Benson Boone
Beautiful as You by Thomas Rhett

[Shelley]

Thank you, High Gravity Productions & Susan Henshaw, for the ALC of It Was Nothing 🩷

✨️Release Date: TBA
✨️Narrators: Christine Lakin & Tim Paige

"I wasn’t nothing and I never had been. No matter how many times I’d told myself I was. Too many spectacular people loved me for that to be true. I’d believed the lies my depressed mind had told me for years on end. But lies, I’d learned, are never the truth. They can’t be. It’s simply an impossibility."

🩷Second Chance Romance
🩷Marriage of Convenience
🩷MMC Country Singer
🩷Small Town Romance

This was such a sweet book. I truly enjoyed it, from the difficult moments to the funny and romantic ones.

I think Ford was such a great MMC. He wasn't perfect and he knew he had to change his ways. I LOVE how much he loved Peyton.

I enjoyed the dual timelines and learning the reason for Peyton holding back. There was great character development between two beautifully broken people.

It Was Nothing was well-written with a great plot - and the narration by Tim Paige & Christine Lakin was so fun!

[BookLionQueen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you @bookedwiththeemilys and @susanhenshawauthor for a #gifted copy of this book.

5 out of 5 stars

WOW. I LOVED THIS BOOK. I can’t believe our time in Settledowne Virginia has come to an end. 😭 I have to go back and read 2 of the stories but then it will be completely over. This story has been long awaited and I’m so glad I’m able to talk about it. I loved the mental health rep in this book. Ford struggles with addiction and has been in recovery for 5 years at the start of this story. This is a story of acceptance, finding yourself, and family. I highly recommend it.

[Ally | SkipTheSpice · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a journey we’ve been on with the Duprees, am I right? I’ve been wondering what Ford’s story would be like since I started the first book of the Seddledowne Series. Then his side storyline in Here’s the Thing had me heavily anticipating the release of It Was Nothing. And now it’s a little bittersweet, because the journey is over :::cue the tears:::

Ford and Peyton. Sigh. Their journey is full of ups and downs, and this book will take you through them all. You will laugh, and you will cry. There will be moments you want to yell at each of them, and moments where you’ll cheer them on. Their love is a hard-won love. The flashbacks to their early days are essential in painting a fuller picture of their story.

If you enjoy heart wrenching romance with angst, drama, and surprises, the entire Seddledowne Series is for you. If you’re going to read It Was Nothing, I HIGHLY recommend starting the series from the beginning. If not, at least start with Book 3 (All To Pieces). You need the backstory with the family to really grasp the story completely.

Intimacy: Fade to Black
Language: a handful of Bible swears
Content Considerations: Sexual innuendo, substance abuse and addiction, discussion of past attempted suicide

[Jeanine Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

One word for you—DUPREE!!! The Duprees are my new favorite family. Nothing can keep these folks down. They take hit after hit, and get back up stronger every time. Sometimes they disagree and argue and hurt each other, but their love is so solid and strong they overcome it. That’s why I love this series so much. It’s about family. Fighting for your family—sometimes with your family—but always sticking together and supporting one another in the end. Learning, growing, loving, surviving.

To really appreciate Ford’s book you need to read Here’s the Thing (but seriously just read them all, it is so worth it). Ford is the baby of the family, the attention seeker, the little brother in the shadow of his older siblings. He just wants their love and time. But while everyone is finding their niche and happily ever afters, Ford is drowning in addiction and depression. Two things that most every family in America can relate to. And after a life changing experience (in HTT), Ford begins to turn his life around. His sobriety and counseling helps to bring his family closer and opens his eyes to everything he has been missing out on.

Ford’s biggest regret and greatest obstacle now is winning Peyton’s heart. He’s changed, matured, slowed down his life-in-the-fast-lane ways. But Peyton has walls built around her heart like Fort Knox. She’s been betrayed, heartbroken, and her life is hanging by a thread. And to make things worse she is carrying a secret that could change everything.

While Here’s the Thing is hands down my favorite book of the series, Ford’s character arc is the most meaningful and compelling. His demons nearly take him out, but his determination and his family’s love carry him through. Ford’s heart is the bigger than Texas. He is a giver and a forgiver. He is Fo-shiz!

I’ve compared this to Sweet Magnolias, but I’m going to take that back. This is so much better!! SM ain’t got nothin’ on Seddledowne and the Duprees. The Duprees are as controversial as the Ewings of Dallas, as lovable as The Waltons, and as relatable as This is Us.

Go read it! Check my stories for all my past review of this series.

[Nicola Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was beautiful. I really can't give it higher praise! It was so lovely to have Ford's story and see where life takes him with his bestie Peyton.

The story was beautifully written and topics including mental health and neurodivergency were treated with the utmost sensitivity and respect. The plot was pretty fast paced and the story flowed really well.

The characters were amazing. I absolutely adore the Dupree family and the fact that they are such a strong and loyal family. Ford was one of my favourites from the other books so it was lovely to have more of him. Peyton was a great character too. She was lovely. I think my actual favourite in this clan is Lemon. She's like my book mum!

The book was written in first person from Ford and Peyton's POV. This worked extremely well. I like the dual POV in a romance. It just lets us get inside the heads of both MCs.

One last thing, the dedication was beautiful. I was really choked up when I read it. I'm also sad that this series must come to an end but I can always revisit the clan in the future. All to pieces, Susan.

I recommend this book and series highly.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Plot: Ford has been in love with Peyton since grade school. They were the best of friends for over a decade. Ford has worn his heart on his sleeve. Peyton has protected hers. When her ex husband threatens to take full custody of their son, she has to make quick, smart decisions to prove she is a safe and stable environment for him. How will this change things with Ford? How will her son and ex feel?

What I liked: I loved that we got previous insight to Ford and Peyton’s relationship. Based on prior books, I already had some, but the flashback scenes were such an asset to the story. I also liked how Cash added to the story in such an impactful way.

What I didn’t like: I didn’t like Braxton. That man was worse than dirt. I also didn’t like that he tried to take Cash when he knew he wasn’t even his son. Everything he did was to spite Peyton and Cash. He is the scum at the bottom of the swimming pool. I can’t scream it any louder. I. HATE. BRAXTON.

Swearing: 1 use of a minor swear word.

Physical intimacy level: fade to black, closed door

Star rating: 5 stars

Trope: unexpected pregnancy (kind of), friends to lovers, found family, small town romance

[Shay's Shelf · Rating 3 out of 5]

So I had a lot of mixed feelings with this one, because I really enjoy the authors writing and the narration, but I had many problems with this that I think were masked by my love for the MMC.

First and foremost, I was not a fan of how pushy the Christian narrative was in this. There was so much slut shaming - both internal and external- and guilt tripping surrounding those not attending church it was wild. The MMC's mother would go so far as criticizing one of her daughter-in-laws for being Jewish... the antisemitism narrative felt very alive and well.

Additionally, I'm not a fan of the secret baby trope ever. It was also incredibly predictable throughout the entire story.

The FMC repeatedly treated the MMC terribly simply because she couldn't act like an adult and have an open conversation with him and accepting the consequences of her actions.

That said, I loved the MMC, and the 14 year old son. I loved their relationship together both before and after they became aware of everything.

Thank you to High Gravity for the ALC.

[CozyInkDrinker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ford and Peyton's story is the last of the Dupree brothers (Silas, Holden, Ashton and Ford) and it was well worth the wait!

Ford and Peyton have been in each other's lives and best friends for over a decade. But Ford's issues with addiction, his fame and other things have never allowed Peyton to fully trust him with her heart.

Their story is literally years in the making. I highly suggest reading the rest of the Seddledowne series to truly see all of their relationship but this book is also amazing as a standalone.

I loved seeing how far they have come, the high highs and low lows that have forged their relationship into an unbreakable bond.

This book is more fade to black but the fade to black scenes/lyrics are part of the story and tastefully done. (Please see the authors content warning for more details).

[Megan Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars!!! When I heard Ford was getting his own book, I was skeptical because of his character up until now. This book perfectly portrayed his redemption and made you fall in love with who he is now. I loved Peyton, I could feel her conflicting emotions throughout the book. She had so much to deal with, with no perfect solution. They were always a unit though, even as friends, and I loved watching them slowly come together as more.

Don't even get me started on their chemistry! It was off the charts! The tension, the will they won't they, it was hot🥵

Their story was beautifully done, one of my favorites of the series. Can't wait for more from the Duprees!!

I received a free ARC but all opinions are my own😊

[Laurie Beam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing !!! I loved Fords book.

It was a great conclusion to seddledowne series. To watch Fords redemption and their story progress. I love a dual perspective book and also look backs also. It really adds to the characters progression. This book had the beautiful Dupree family in all of their glory and the fun witty banter and ALL THE FEELS!!! Makes me want to start at the beginning and reread the entire series all again to enjoy. Another wonderful read from Susan.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this entire series!

[Elizabeth Gillam · Rating 5 out of 5]

what a solid series 👏

[Mary Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️ ARC Review: This is a story of two broken souls who, after a hard-fought journey, find their way to a well-deserved happily ever after.

These are the stories I live for. They have that depth, real life struggles, imperfect people, redemption, and a beautiful romance. This book is just that.

Ford and Peyton were oh so perfect. Ford especially was the greenest of green flags and made sure Peyton knew she was loved unconditionally. I loved the family dynamics and the strong bond all of the Dupree's have, but Peyton and Ford's connection topped it all.

He was down bad for Peyton and I just wanted to shake her shoulders because I mean, come on, he was so darn obvious with his affections! I loved Ford. I loved his redemption arc, his personality, his honest character and his ability to love. He is a top tier MMC. Peyton on the other hand, was not my favorite FMC. She was fine, but I was sick and tired of her hurting Ford over and over again. He deserved better. But I was happy when they finally got their happily ever after.

One problem I did have was with the pace of the plot. It was pretty slow. They don’t get married till later and even then, their romance doesn’t progress because of Peyton’s timidness for almost the entirety of the book. But boy when they kiss!? It made it all worth it.

I enjoyed this one. A marriage of convenience rarely goes wrong for me.

*Thank you to Booked with the Emilys and Susan Henshaw for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read if you enjoy:
- Marriage or convenience
- Dual POV
- Single mom
- Country singer MMC
- Friends to lovers
- Small town
- One bed

Content 💋:
- Kisses only/implied intimacy/fade-to-black between a married couple (not explicit)
- Moderate innuendo (some spicy lyrics to his country songs)
- Mild infrequent language (4 d**n, 2 h**l, 1 a**)

[Farah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A marriage of convenience sees two best friends tying the knot in order for Peyton to keep custody of her son. 

Susan Henshaw has a fantastic writing style. This romance had me smiling from page one. I loved the chemistry between Ford and Peyton and admired Ford's determination in getting his best friend to consider something more. I did guess what Peyton's secret was going to be at the end but this did not take away from my enjoyment of the story. Here I am, once again, reading a series out of order! On the plus side though, I will definitely be going back to reading the other books in this series as I absolutely adored this one.

[Linzie (book.clubbin.besties) Mullins · Rating 5 out of 5]

What. A. Story. Wow!

Susan continuously delivers such intimate stories about these Dupree boys. I have been waiting on Ford’s story, especially after the previous book! The little gems that she planted in previous books all come together to complete this heartwarming (and something heart hardening) story. If you’re looking for a closed door cowboy romance with a strong family unit… you must read about the Duprees! This *might* be my favorite one… such good writing, I didn’t want to put it down. 💙

[Candie Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart has always ached for Ford! I couldn’t wait to read his book. And I LOVED every second of it. Even the parts that made me so mad and hurt on his behalf. This was probably my favorite book in the series. I’m not ready to leave these people!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I loved Ford and Payton’s chemistry.

[Jaymie Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

My 💭 : I read this book in one day. Could. Not. Put. It. Down. It was emotional, it was funny, it had twists and turns that I never saw coming! The Dupree family is my favorite, and I loved getting to hear Ford and Peyton’s story. This is a closed door romance, with implied intimacy.

If you know, you know, the scene with Ford and the actress had me laughing, so so funny!!

[Karyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

2 1/2 stars Peyton and Jenny got on my nerves and the book was a little too much over the top. Glad I’m done!

[Audio book lover · Rating 4 out of 5]

It Was Nothing is everything I could have hoped for and more the perfect, bittersweet conclusion to the Seddledowne series. Ever since Ford’s first appearance, I knew his story would be something special, and Susan Henshaw delivered it with grace, depth, and emotional honesty. This book isn’t just a friends-to-lovers romance; it’s a story about resilience, forgiveness, and what it means to choose love even when life has broken you down. The dual POV and dual timeline make the connection between Ford and Peyton feel incredibly real, showing how their friendship evolved into something so much deeper over time. I loved that we got to see not only the heartbreak of their past but also their healing in the present it made their love story all the more powerful. Henshaw’s writing once again struck that perfect balance between tenderness and intensity, and her portrayal of mental health and neurodivergence felt both respectful and beautifully nuanced. The final chapters and those two stunning epilogues, I was completely wrecked in the best way.

The Story

Ford Dupree has it all on paper fame, fortune, and two Grammys to his name but none of it fills the void left by the woman he loves. Peyton has been his best friend for years, the one person who’s always seen the man behind the music, but when her world falls apart, she shows up on his doorstep with a desperate request. What starts as a marriage of convenience quickly becomes a reckoning with old wounds and unspoken truths. Through flashbacks and present-day moments, we see how love, loss, and secrets shaped them both. Their journey is tender and deeply emotional, full of longing, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to let someone love you exactly as you are.

What I Loved

✔️ The dual timeline it added so much richness, allowing us to experience their past and present in perfect harmony.
✔️ The emotional depth and vulnerability of both Ford and Peyton; their connection felt honest and powerful.
✔️ The sensitive and authentic handling of mental health and neurodivergence.
✔️ Susan Henshaw’s beautiful, heartfelt prose that always feels genuine and real.
✔️ The way the story brought the Seddledowne world full circle, tying together every thread from the previous books.
✔️ The two epilogues absolutely perfect and the emotional closure every fan of the series needed.

🎧 Narration

Christine Lakin and Tim Paige were both new-to-me narrators, and they did an incredible job bringing Ford and Peyton to life. Their performances were warm, layered, and full of heart. I loved how naturally they captured the characters’ chemistry and inner emotions every sigh, pause, and whispered word felt intentional and real. The pacing was smooth, and their delivery made the emotional highs and lows even more powerful. This audiobook was an absolute joy to listen to from start to finish.

Tropes & Vibes

✔️ Friends to Lovers
✔️ Marriage of Convenience
✔️ Country Music Star
✔️ Single Parent
✔️ Dual POV + Dual Timeline
✔️ Emotional & Heartfelt Romance (Closed Door)
✔️ Small Town / Family Series Finale
✔️ Healing, Forgiveness, and Found Family

Final Thoughts

It Was Nothing is an unforgettable, emotionally charged finale to a series that has stolen my heart from the start. Susan Henshaw crafts a love story that’s tender, healing, and profoundly human. It’s not about grand gestures or endless spice it’s about quiet devotion, forgiveness, and two people finding their way back to each other after years of pain. By the time I reached the last page, I felt like I’d said goodbye to old friends, my heart full yet aching for just a little more. A beautiful, bittersweet ending to the Seddledowne series and easily one of Susan Henshaw’s best works yet.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's always kind of bittersweet when a series comes to a close. I've loved reading each story and am happy to see a collection of happy endings, but will miss reading about the family. (Or maybe there is more to come ;) ) I do suggest that they be read in order. There is so much love and support in this family, despite the challenges, mistakes and heartache that happened along the way. This story is less of one of "convenience" because they were already in love and even though the reason for getting married was convenient, it wasn't really going to stay that way for very long. The epilogues are fun and the bonus content is a must read. This story captures your heart and takes you on a journey of love and forgiveness.

Ford took a very different path in life than his other siblings and we've seen parts of it in the previous stories. He was on a path of self destruction that unfortunately hurt a lot of people and there were some ripple effects that were hard to deal with. But his story of redemption is so wonderful to see.

With each of the books there are time jumps and you're not always super clear on exactly how much time has passed but you can kind of guess. This book has dual POV and has glimpses into the past at how Ford and Peyton got to where they are today. One thing I wasn't super clear on is how they got to be such good friends. Given their shared past, mistakes and secrets how did they become the best friends that they were?

I guess what was frustrating to me is the kind of imbalance in their relationship. They were like besties but she kept him at a distance. I felt bad for Ford - he tried so hard and had changed so much and loved so deeply, I feel like she kind of just played with his heart unnecessarily. He took friendship cause that was all that he could get. She knew how much he loved her and all she had to do was say one thing and they could've both had a happily ever after. Of course that one thing was a huge secret but it wasn't right to hold onto it for so long and it turned from an act of protection, to one of selfishness and fear. Ford may not have been able to commit in the past when she wanted him to, but the past 5 years, anytime would've been ok to make a move Peyton. I wonder if Ford known truth from the beginning, would he still have made the choices he did? Could he have gotten cleaner sooner? Guess we don't know.

Eventually they got a happily ever after. I think Peyton is just lucky Ford loves her as much as he does to be so forgiving and stay around for so long when she constantly turned down his love. I guess I just don't like stubborn characters that needlessly suffer so much. She had so many frustrations with custody battles, a cheating ex, house loss, job loss, stress, etc. when she could've had it all with Ford- not just money and worldly comfort, but a home, stability and true love. I guess sometimes the path we take isn't an important as just ending up in the right spot.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Susan Henshaw closes out The Seddledowne Series of interconnected standalones with a masterful, deeply emotional, small-town romance in It Was Nothing. Narrated brilliantly by Christine Lakin and Tim Paige, this highly anticipated story delivers all the angst, heart, and complexity readers have come to expect from the Dupree family.

After the dramatic events of Here's the Thing, fans have been anxiously awaiting Ford's story, and it is even better than anticipated. Ford, a country music star with two Grammys and sold-out arenas, has everything... except the one woman he truly loves. For years, he’s been perpetually proposing to his best friend, Peyton, only to be continuously turned down.


Peyton loves Ford as a friend, but there’s a secret she’s been keeping—a secret big enough to ruin everything. When her life crumbles—she loses her job, her house, and faces an ex-husband suing for custody of her son—a desperate Peyton sinks to one knee herself. She needs a marriage of convenience to save her son, and Ford, her forever-proposing best friend, is her only hope.

Ford, though yearning for a real marriage, agrees to pretend 'I do' means 'I don’t,' hoping his family’s suggestion that this temporary arrangement will finally win Peyton over for good. But if Ford discovers the truth Peyton is hiding, it wouldn't just make him run—it would erase every sincere "I love you" he’s ever meant.


This novel shines as a beautiful and heartfelt love story that is anything but easy. The dual timeline structure uses essential flashbacks to fully paint the picture of Ford and Peyton's complicated past, showing readers how they’ve evolved from their early days to their high-stakes present.

Ford’s journey is truly a redemption story. Readers who have followed the series will especially appreciate how far he has come from a difficult past filled with addiction and mistakes. His fiercely persistent love for Peyton is wonderful, and his hard-fought path to an earned happily-ever-after is incredibly satisfying. The author handles the difficult themes with sensitivity and empathy, making the emotional highs and lows deeply resonant.


Christine Lakin and Tim Paige bring this journey to life with brilliant narration, ensuring the listener is invested in every laugh, tear, and moment of conflict. While It Was Nothing can be read as a standalone, we highly recommend starting the series from the beginning, or at least with Book 3 (All To Pieces), to fully appreciate the complex dynamics of the Dupree family and Ford's significant growth.

If you love angsty, high-drama, small-town romance with a marriage of convenience trope, a great amount of banter, and a hard-won love, then download this wild ride today.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gina Blades · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small town marriage of convenience country music star romance

4.5⭐️ 1🌶️ Book 5 in the Seddledowne series-small town, marriage of convenience, Country music star romance-Ford finally gets his girl. ❤️
This is my 5th book by this author, and I can’t wait to read more - especially for the next generation series with more Dupree family HEAs.

Ford Dupree is a Country music star, and Peyton is the one that got away. He’s loved her for 14 years, but even though she’s now divorced, Peyton has a secret and keeps Ford at arms’ length because she is scared of losing him for good. They are best friends, meant to be, and give ‘it’s always been you’ vibes. After seeing snippets of Ford and Peyton in previous books in this series, knowing that Ford struggled and at one time thought nobody would care if he disappeared, I’m so glad that he finds his one true love & happiness. I always felt like giving him a hug, and screaming to Peyton to give in and accept one of Ford’s multiple proposals.

Emotional roller coaster 🎢
Hard-earned HEA ❤️
He wrote her a song 🎵
He buys her dream dress 👗
‘It was nothing’. 🫠🫠🫠
He brings her coffee ☕️ every morning
He makes her breakfast 🍳
Acts of service/gift-giving is his love language

Favorite quotes:
"It's always been you, Peyt."
“Me too, Ford."

‘I wasn't nothing and I never had been. No matter how many times I'd told myself I was. I'd believed the lies my depressed mind had told me for years on end.’

‘And she was wrong. I did want to be married. To her. So badly it actually hurt.’

"What's a dream you have for yourself that you rarely or never talk about?"
“I want to be a dad someday." (And make a
baby with you, I didn't say.)

"Peyton, please. Just let me love you for real and for good."

“I love you. I always have, okay? You broke my heart the night you won the show, but I never got over you. I've loved you every day since. Happy now?"

‘I just wanted to love Peyton. To hold her every night.’

‘I would never be okay without Peyton in my life.’

‘The dam of darkness that had been building in me broke and sunlight poured through. I was going to be all right. She was here. Everything was okay.’

‘You're my dream girl, Peyt--and you deserve your dream dress. And before you protest...it was nothing. I can afford it.’

Read this if you like:
*Small town romance
*Marriage of convenience
*Country music star MMC
*Angst/tension
*Mutual pining
*’It’s always been you’
*Secret tattoo
*Reformed playboy
*Forehead kisses 💋
*Hard-fought HEA
*Big family dynamics
*Therapy/mental health rep

Content warning: alcohol/drug addiction, sobriety/recovery, depression, discussion of past attempted suicide, discussion of past overdose

Next up is book 1 of the next generation Seddledowne series - Cash & Charlie’s story.

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Susan has written a truly captivating story. Ford has been in love with Peyton for years, but she only ever saw him as a friend. Despite his many proposals, she always said no. However, when Peyton faces the threat of losing custody of her son, Cash, she proposes a solution: marriage to Ford. But there's a catch—it’s a marriage in name only, with plans to divorce once Cash goes to college. Ford, willing to do anything to be with Peyton, agrees, determined to win over his wife. But things aren’t as simple as they seem, especially when Peyton reveals a secret that could tear them apart for good. Ford has made many mistakes, but marrying Peyton was the best decision of his life, and he’s not ready to lose her. Yet, with Peyton’s secret looming, can they turn their fake marriage into a real one before it’s too late? Or will the truth drive them toward an annulment?

I absolutely loved this story! This book toed the line more than most of my usual reads when it comes to being a clean read, pushing boundaries without totally crossing them. That said, it’s all essential to Ford’s journey, and I understand why the author wrote it that way. The story is filled with secrets, intense love, and undeniable chemistry. You’ll be left wondering how Peyton and Ford stayed in the friend zone for so long. It’s a love story that will stick with you.

A heads-up: Ford’s story treads on some difficult ground. He was raised in a Christian home with strong morals... but he’s made many mistakes, and his past fame led to some questionable decisions. His journey is one of redemption, and you’ll revisit some of his tough moments, including poor choices and past indiscretions. While the romance remains closed-door (with no explicit scenes), the content leans toward “fade to black" with innuendo. Ford has undergone a full recovery and is no longer the man he once was.This story is truly incredible, and the author has done an outstanding job telling Ford's love story and personal transformation. However, I want to offer a gentle note for those who may be sensitive to certain themes. If this type of content (that I mentioned above) is something you're unsure about or if it makes you uncomfortable, it might be worth considering whether this book is the right fit for you.

I love the Dupree family and honestly need to read books 1 and 2.... and then I need to buy all of them in print! This story was a 4.5 read, but the Bonus Epilogue pushed it to a 5 star for me. I'm looking forward to what Susan has next!

I received a complimentary copy of this story & the bonus epilogue. This review reflects my honest opinion.

[Marilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and emotional story!

Ford may be a world famous country music star but even his fame can't get him the one thing he wants more than anything: Peyton. He has been in love with his best friend for as long as he can remember and now that he has turned his life around, all he wants is a chance to love her and take care of her.

Peyton has become an expert at taking her feelings for Ford and burying them way down deep. Past hurts and secrets mean they can never be together. But now that her ex has taken away her son and the only way to get him back is to finally give in to Ford's pleas and marry him, she has to try even harder to keep her feelings in check. Because loving Ford and telling him her secrets could only lead to disaster.

What you'll love:
marriage of convenience
first love, second chance
country music star MMC
single mom FMC
flashbacks
redemption and forgiveness
strong family bonds
the tattoo
tension and chemistry
Dupree brothers group texts
perfect epilogues!!!!

This book was everything I love about this series!! The drama, the emotions, the family relationships, the romance - it's more addicting than a daytime soap opera and I am so here for all of it!

I have been waiting for Ford's story of redemption from book one and wow, it met and exceeded every expectation. Seriously. The way that man loves and gives with his whole heart is so beautiful - he has changed so much from the Ford we meet at the beginning of the series. I also love that over the series, he and Peyton have become best friends (from enemies) and their emotional journey of heartache and love and trust wrung my heart out. Talk about ALL THE FEELS and ALL THE SWOON!

Love the Dupree family (those text threads!) and all their messy, real relationships full of humor and so much love. Seeing so many of the nieces and nephews growing up was the extra bonus I didn't know I needed.

The only thing I didn't like about this book was that it means the end of the Seddledowne series. (insert all the crying emojis here). I am so attached to these characters! My one solace is that I can pick up their stories and re-read them over and over...which I absolutely plan on doing.

This is the fifth and final book in the series and can be read as a standalone BUT you will probably enjoy it best if you at least read All to Pieces and Here's the Thing first so you get a little of the background on Peyton and Ford.

I love this series so much and this was the perfect ending! These books broke my heart all to pieces and then put it back together better than it was before. I am a fan for life!

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

CW: fade to black between married couple, implied teen sex but nothing on page, manipulative ex, song lyrics with innuendo

[IaMeganF aka Booksinthebackseat · Rating 5 out of 5]

It Was Nothing by Susan Henshaw

🎤 🎤 🎤 🎤 🎤

“It Was Nothing” by @susanhenshawauthor was my first book by her, but after this emotional rollercoaster, it absolutely won’t be my last!

While this story could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the series in order to truly appreciate the depth of the characters and their journeys.

This book had everything I crave in a story—intense drama, raw emotions, complicated family dynamics, a beautifully messy romance, and jaw-dropping secrets. It was more addictive than a daytime soap opera, and I devoured every single twist and turn with my heart pounding!

One of my favorite things about this book was the dual timeline. It added so much richness to the story, letting me experience every moment of Ford and Peyton’s past firsthand instead of just hearing about it. Their connection was deep, powerful, and heartbreaking, and watching them navigate their pain, their mistakes, and their undeniable love felt so incredibly real. I found myself completely invested in their journey, aching for them, rooting for them, and celebrating every hard-earned step toward healing.

Susan Henshaw’s writing is breathtakingly beautiful, and I especially appreciated how she handled mental health and neurodivergency with such grace, authenticity, and sensitivity. The emotions in this book felt so raw—I laughed, I teared up, I held my breath during the most intense moments. The pacing was perfect, the storytelling flowed seamlessly, and the characters were so layered and realistic that they felt like actual people.

And speaking of characters—Ford and Peyton completely stole my heart. Their history was gut-wrenching and beautifully complex, and I loved how their love story wasn’t easy or perfect, but real and earned. Susan Henshaw knows how to write a couple that fights through pain and heartbreak to get their well-deserved happily ever after, and this book was a shining example of that!

And let’s not forget the unforgettable moments—Braxton being infuriating self, the Truth or Dare in Hawaii (I gasped), the tattoo reveal, the long-buried secrets finally unraveling… It was all so intense, so gripping, so emotional. Watching Ford and Peyton grow, face their past, and finally accept that they need, love, and truly deserve each other, no matter how long it took, was absolutely everything.

💜 Huge thank you to Susan Henshaw and @bookedwiththeemilys for the e-book! I cannot wait to read more from this incredible author!