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Bluegrass Empires #4
The Past
Before ascending the throne of the Blackburn Empire in Kentucky horse country, they were just Tommy and Fiona, two teenagers from opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Young love bloomed during an Irish summer set amidst the rolling green hills and lush pastures of Tipperary County.
Fiona Conlan grew up sheltered by her overbearing parents and vibrating with the need for something more. In the summer of 1978, she found exactly what she needed. Ready to test the boundaries set for her, Fiona trained in the exhilarating and dangerous sport of steeplechase, and in an even more rebellious move, started secretly dating a young and brash American she knew her parents would never approve of.
Too much partying and not enough studying during his sophomore year of college had Tommy Blackburn’s parents desperate to get the future heir of the family business to take life a little more seriously. What better way to do that than to send him to Ireland to work at Glenhaven, a massive thoroughbred and breeding operation run by a family friend. But Tommy’s wild ways followed him across the pond and he couldn’t help but pursue the beautiful redhead with fire in her eyes and a wild spirit just waiting to break free.
Tommy and Fiona fell hard and fast, a secret love built from stolen moments. Rife with drama and disapproval, they overcame it all to set the stage for a new generation of Blackburns to run their American Empire. Their epically romantic journey was anything but easy, but you can’t get to the present without The Past.
The A Blackburn Novel is an opposites attract, long distance love story within the Bluegrass Empires series. All books in the series can be enjoyed as standalones.
Fiona Conlan grew up sheltered by her overbearing parents and vibrating with the need for something more. In the summer of 1978, she found exactly what she needed. Ready to test the boundaries set for her, Fiona trained in the exhilarating and dangerous sport of steeplechase, and in an even more rebellious move, started secretly dating a young and brash American she knew her parents would never approve of.
Too much partying and not enough studying during his sophomore year of college had Tommy Blackburn’s parents desperate to get the future heir of the family business to take life a little more seriously. What better way to do that than to send him to Ireland to work at Glenhaven, a massive thoroughbred and breeding operation run by a family friend. But Tommy’s wild ways followed him across the pond and he couldn’t help but pursue the beautiful redhead with fire in her eyes and a wild spirit just waiting to break free.
Tommy and Fiona fell hard and fast, a secret love built from stolen moments. Rife with drama and disapproval, they overcame it all to set the stage for a new generation of Blackburns to run their American Empire. Their epically romantic journey was anything but easy, but you can’t get to the present without The Past.
The A Blackburn Novel is an opposites attract, long distance love story within the Bluegrass Empires series. All books in the series can be enjoyed as standalones.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2025
About the author
Sawyer Bennett
174 books14.4k followersNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
June 2, 2025
Book 4 in the Bluegrass Empire Series is actually a prequel of sorts. It begins in the sad aftermath of the loss of one of the Blackburn children. This leads Fiona Blackburn, our matriarch, to reminisce through old photographs with her granddaughter Sylvie. When Sylvie asks about the love story between her grandparents, we go back in time and see the summer that Tommy Blackburn and Fiona Conlon fell in love and started an Empire.
We go back to 1978 Ireland, where a 19-year-old Tommy is sent to chill out and work through the summer with his father's old friend. This friend happens to be Fiona's uncle, Rory, who is half-owner in Glenhaven, a massive thoroughbred and breeding operation. His is slightly reluctant to be there but that quickly fades when he gets a look at Fiona Conlan, racing steeplechase and fighting off her father's efforts to marry her off "for the good of the family".
Fiona has always been a good girl, though she does hide her passion for racing from her father. Her Uncle Rory sees her talent and encourages her to train and live out her dream. When she meets Tommy, it's an instant attraction and a forbidden romance strikes almost immediately.
They both fall hard and fast, but there are a lot of challenges in their way. This felt like a movie or an episode of Downton Abbey, but it was interesting because even though Tommy is an outsider, it's not like he's a pauper, by any means. The Blackburns are legendary after all, just in Kentucky. Fiona has always done what she's been told but Tommy gives her a glimpse at how life could be, if she's only brave enough to jump with him.
I truly enjoyed this story and I was riveted the whole time. Their love was so earnest and pure. It may have happened very fast, but I believed it. They had my heart and even though there were bittersweet moments and loss along the way... I knew that Tommy and Fiona are meant to be, so it kept me listening. This is actually my favorite after The Feud!
I highly recommend this one. You could read it first actually, if you wanted to. Though it does spoil a death in book 3.... otherwise, it's all a flashback romance.
Narrated by Sean Masters & Kit Swann, who have just brought this series to life for me.
4.5 Stars
1.5 on the spice scale
CW: Parental emotional abuse & estrangement
*Thank you to The Author Agency and the author for an ALC of this title.*
We go back to 1978 Ireland, where a 19-year-old Tommy is sent to chill out and work through the summer with his father's old friend. This friend happens to be Fiona's uncle, Rory, who is half-owner in Glenhaven, a massive thoroughbred and breeding operation. His is slightly reluctant to be there but that quickly fades when he gets a look at Fiona Conlan, racing steeplechase and fighting off her father's efforts to marry her off "for the good of the family".
Fiona has always been a good girl, though she does hide her passion for racing from her father. Her Uncle Rory sees her talent and encourages her to train and live out her dream. When she meets Tommy, it's an instant attraction and a forbidden romance strikes almost immediately.
They both fall hard and fast, but there are a lot of challenges in their way. This felt like a movie or an episode of Downton Abbey, but it was interesting because even though Tommy is an outsider, it's not like he's a pauper, by any means. The Blackburns are legendary after all, just in Kentucky. Fiona has always done what she's been told but Tommy gives her a glimpse at how life could be, if she's only brave enough to jump with him.
I truly enjoyed this story and I was riveted the whole time. Their love was so earnest and pure. It may have happened very fast, but I believed it. They had my heart and even though there were bittersweet moments and loss along the way... I knew that Tommy and Fiona are meant to be, so it kept me listening. This is actually my favorite after The Feud!
I highly recommend this one. You could read it first actually, if you wanted to. Though it does spoil a death in book 3.... otherwise, it's all a flashback romance.
Narrated by Sean Masters & Kit Swann, who have just brought this series to life for me.
4.5 Stars
1.5 on the spice scale
CW: Parental emotional abuse & estrangement
*Thank you to The Author Agency and the author for an ALC of this title.*
June 3, 2025
🎧🎧AUDIOBOOK & EBOOK REVIEW🎧🎧
I cannot believe we are saying goodbye to this family saga! However, I'm beyond thrilled that Sawyer came full-circle and decided to tell the journey of Fiona & Tommy!
To say that my emotions ran high with this story is an understatement. This isn’t a “new” story by any stretch, it’s really as old as time, as they say. Two people from different sides of the “track” in an era were breaking the “chains” and marking your own path against your family, especially as a woman, was unfathomable and frankly, impossible. However, love doesn’t have “chains” or recognizes “tracks” and above all, it gives you the will to climb mountains you never knew possible, if you are willing. Fiona & Tommy had such a will, and they were willing. It wasn’t a smooth journey, a lot was lost, but so much more was gained! We knew the ending before the story began but we didn’t know the journey and I have to give Sawyer mad props for having me invested in every second of this story non-stop even though I already “knew” it. Feel me? Lol
🎧 Sean Masters and Kit Swann have been performing this series since the very beginning, and they have done an exceptional job! This time, Kit Swann deserves a 👏👏standing ovation👏👏 for her performance as a young Fiona. Her accent and the ease with which she performed was amazing. I am seriously lacking in words. It was just outstanding!
I cannot believe we are saying goodbye to this family saga! However, I'm beyond thrilled that Sawyer came full-circle and decided to tell the journey of Fiona & Tommy!
To say that my emotions ran high with this story is an understatement. This isn’t a “new” story by any stretch, it’s really as old as time, as they say. Two people from different sides of the “track” in an era were breaking the “chains” and marking your own path against your family, especially as a woman, was unfathomable and frankly, impossible. However, love doesn’t have “chains” or recognizes “tracks” and above all, it gives you the will to climb mountains you never knew possible, if you are willing. Fiona & Tommy had such a will, and they were willing. It wasn’t a smooth journey, a lot was lost, but so much more was gained! We knew the ending before the story began but we didn’t know the journey and I have to give Sawyer mad props for having me invested in every second of this story non-stop even though I already “knew” it. Feel me? Lol
🎧 Sean Masters and Kit Swann have been performing this series since the very beginning, and they have done an exceptional job! This time, Kit Swann deserves a 👏👏standing ovation👏👏 for her performance as a young Fiona. Her accent and the ease with which she performed was amazing. I am seriously lacking in words. It was just outstanding!
May 18, 2025
4.5☆
I really enjoyed getting to go back and see Fiona and Tommy's love story. The setup for this story was very sweet and emotional given what has happened to the Blackburns. These two have such different families, and you can see how much that affects them. I love the way Fiona pushes back and especially how her Uncle Rory and Tommy support her. Her family truly is awful apart from her Uncle Rory. Their story was emotional and sweet, and I loved seeing them fall in love. I really really enjoyed getting their story, great read!
I really enjoyed getting to go back and see Fiona and Tommy's love story. The setup for this story was very sweet and emotional given what has happened to the Blackburns. These two have such different families, and you can see how much that affects them. I love the way Fiona pushes back and especially how her Uncle Rory and Tommy support her. Her family truly is awful apart from her Uncle Rory. Their story was emotional and sweet, and I loved seeing them fall in love. I really really enjoyed getting their story, great read!
June 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!!
i love any novel about parents in a book + one that provides backstory so this was a wonderful addition to the series. tommy & fiona have proven to be the backbone of the blackborn family over the past three books, and i was so excited to delve into their romance and see how their love story came to be!
this was a fun, unique look at the past. i love how they met & all the forces that brought them together. reading about fi’s uncle rory made me cry, and i was so so angry at the rest of her family for their treatment of her.
the only reason i deducted a star is because the pacing in this book (and every book in the series) had been incredibly fast. i wish it had been slower paced, so we really could’ve gotten more time with these characters. the ending of their story seemed so abrupt to me, and the revelations about fi’s family seemed so random but provoked so many questions for me. my gripe with every book in this series is that we don’t spend enough time with the love interests being together & happy, and that’s what happened in this book too 😕
i love any novel about parents in a book + one that provides backstory so this was a wonderful addition to the series. tommy & fiona have proven to be the backbone of the blackborn family over the past three books, and i was so excited to delve into their romance and see how their love story came to be!
this was a fun, unique look at the past. i love how they met & all the forces that brought them together. reading about fi’s uncle rory made me cry, and i was so so angry at the rest of her family for their treatment of her.
the only reason i deducted a star is because the pacing in this book (and every book in the series) had been incredibly fast. i wish it had been slower paced, so we really could’ve gotten more time with these characters. the ending of their story seemed so abrupt to me, and the revelations about fi’s family seemed so random but provoked so many questions for me. my gripe with every book in this series is that we don’t spend enough time with the love interests being together & happy, and that’s what happened in this book too 😕
May 28, 2025
“They were the foundation of an empire, but first—they were just two reckless hearts falling in love under the Irish sun.” 🇮🇪❤️
Read if you like:
✨ forbidden love
✨ opposites attract
✨ secret romance
✨ coming-of-age
✨ horse country and Irish countryside settings
✨ nostalgic prequels with iconic couples
📚 The Past takes us back to where it all began—the untold story of Tommy and Fiona, the iconic Blackburn couple whose youthful summer romance shaped the dynasty we’ve come to know. Set in the lush, rolling hills of 1970s Tipperary, this prequel is both a heartwarming origin story and a standalone tale of first love and rebellion.
👨👧 Fiona is a redheaded firecracker, aching to break free from her overprotective upbringing. Tommy? A wild American sent to shape up at a prestigious Irish breeding farm. They shouldn’t have worked—but they did. Their chemistry is instant, intense, and absolutely irresistible.
💞 Their love story is rich in longing, tension, and breath-stealing moments. From stolen kisses to bold defiance, their bond grows stronger against every rule and obstacle thrown their way. Their passion isn’t just about attraction—it’s about freedom, courage, and building something bigger than themselves.
👧 Though the focus stays on Tommy and Fiona, the world around them—family, trainers, stable hands—adds texture to every scene. There’s a lived-in quality to Glenhaven that feels like home.
✍️ Sawyer Bennett brings the setting to life with vivid, romantic prose. You can feel the misty mornings and hear the pounding hooves of the steeplechase. Every word pulses with the ache of youth and the magic of memory.
🌟 Whether you’ve followed the Bluegrass Empires from the start or are diving in for the first time, The Past is a beautifully written reminder that every empire begins with a love story. And Tommy and Fiona’s? Unforgettable.
📲 QOTD: Do you enjoy prequels, or do you prefer to start at the beginning of a couple’s journey?
📲 ALT QOTD: If you could visit any decade in history, just for the summer, which would you pick? 👇
#BookReview #SawyerBennett #ThePast #BluegrassEmpires #RomanceReaders #HistoricalRomance #OppositesAttract #ForbiddenLove #RomanticReads #InstaBook #SummerReading #IrishRomance #RomanceBooks #Bookstagram #BackstoryGoals
Read if you like:
✨ forbidden love
✨ opposites attract
✨ secret romance
✨ coming-of-age
✨ horse country and Irish countryside settings
✨ nostalgic prequels with iconic couples
📚 The Past takes us back to where it all began—the untold story of Tommy and Fiona, the iconic Blackburn couple whose youthful summer romance shaped the dynasty we’ve come to know. Set in the lush, rolling hills of 1970s Tipperary, this prequel is both a heartwarming origin story and a standalone tale of first love and rebellion.
👨👧 Fiona is a redheaded firecracker, aching to break free from her overprotective upbringing. Tommy? A wild American sent to shape up at a prestigious Irish breeding farm. They shouldn’t have worked—but they did. Their chemistry is instant, intense, and absolutely irresistible.
💞 Their love story is rich in longing, tension, and breath-stealing moments. From stolen kisses to bold defiance, their bond grows stronger against every rule and obstacle thrown their way. Their passion isn’t just about attraction—it’s about freedom, courage, and building something bigger than themselves.
👧 Though the focus stays on Tommy and Fiona, the world around them—family, trainers, stable hands—adds texture to every scene. There’s a lived-in quality to Glenhaven that feels like home.
✍️ Sawyer Bennett brings the setting to life with vivid, romantic prose. You can feel the misty mornings and hear the pounding hooves of the steeplechase. Every word pulses with the ache of youth and the magic of memory.
🌟 Whether you’ve followed the Bluegrass Empires from the start or are diving in for the first time, The Past is a beautifully written reminder that every empire begins with a love story. And Tommy and Fiona’s? Unforgettable.
📲 QOTD: Do you enjoy prequels, or do you prefer to start at the beginning of a couple’s journey?
📲 ALT QOTD: If you could visit any decade in history, just for the summer, which would you pick? 👇
#BookReview #SawyerBennett #ThePast #BluegrassEmpires #RomanceReaders #HistoricalRomance #OppositesAttract #ForbiddenLove #RomanticReads #InstaBook #SummerReading #IrishRomance #RomanceBooks #Bookstagram #BackstoryGoals
May 18, 2025
It was fun to explore a blast from the past. I enjoyed going back to Ireland. Fiona’s family are tough and her. They think their way is the right way and don’t let her try things on her own.
I’m glad Tommy was able to open her eyes to something new.
It was nice to see where things began.
I’m glad Tommy was able to open her eyes to something new.
It was nice to see where things began.
August 5, 2025
Audio-oh the feels. What a love story for Fiona and Tommy, all that they went through to be together. Her horrible domineering father to the wonderful uncle that she loved like a father. Their love story is told to their granddaughter Sophie as they were looking through photo albums. I loved it.
June 5, 2025
As a firm fan of the Bluegrass Empires series, The Past was an absolute treat. It was such a pleasure to finally get an insight into Tommy and Fiona’s backstory & how this iconic couple, the very foundation of the Blackburn dynasty, first met and fell in love.
Set against the sweeping, romantic backdrop of 1970s rural Ireland, it captured the thrill of young, forbidden love with heart and charm. Fiona, yearning for more than the life mapped out for her, and Tommy, the rebellious American sent abroad to be straightened out, are an irresistible pairing. Their chemistry leaps off the page from the start, and watching their connection blossom amidst the drama, secrecy, and steeplechase action was both captivating and nostalgic. I have family from Tipperary, so could imagine the scenery very clearly.
The story balances romance and emotion with just the right amount of tension and heartache. It gave depth to characters we've come to know in later books, reminding us that every empire starts with a love story, and this one was well worth telling.
Whether you’ve read the series or picking up your first Blackburn novel, The Past is both a standalone and a must-read for fans. A moving, richly detailed prequel that deepens the Bluegrass world.
Set against the sweeping, romantic backdrop of 1970s rural Ireland, it captured the thrill of young, forbidden love with heart and charm. Fiona, yearning for more than the life mapped out for her, and Tommy, the rebellious American sent abroad to be straightened out, are an irresistible pairing. Their chemistry leaps off the page from the start, and watching their connection blossom amidst the drama, secrecy, and steeplechase action was both captivating and nostalgic. I have family from Tipperary, so could imagine the scenery very clearly.
The story balances romance and emotion with just the right amount of tension and heartache. It gave depth to characters we've come to know in later books, reminding us that every empire starts with a love story, and this one was well worth telling.
Whether you’ve read the series or picking up your first Blackburn novel, The Past is both a standalone and a must-read for fans. A moving, richly detailed prequel that deepens the Bluegrass world.
June 17, 2025
Clearly an ode to Kanye masquerading as a book.
It beats me why authors decide to write the way they think heavily accented people speak.
It beats me why authors decide to write the way they think heavily accented people speak.
June 7, 2025
This was a sweet story - a little bit on the insta-love side, but I enjoyed it regardless.
June 8, 2025
4.5 stars
The Past by Sawyer Bennett is a beautiful and heartfelt love story.
I loved the storyline and I loved Tommy and Fiona.
This series has been a great read and I highly recommend it.
If you haven’t met Tommy and Fiona yet, now’s the perfect time to start where it all began.
--> https://geni.us/SB_ThePast
⭐I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts⭐
The Past by Sawyer Bennett is a beautiful and heartfelt love story.
I loved the storyline and I loved Tommy and Fiona.
This series has been a great read and I highly recommend it.
If you haven’t met Tommy and Fiona yet, now’s the perfect time to start where it all began.
--> https://geni.us/SB_ThePast
⭐I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts⭐
June 9, 2025
This is the story of Tommy and Fiona, told to their granddaughter by Fiona. It was sweet and heartbreaking! Fiona's father was a huge POS! I loved how she played him towards the end, even if it was a big price to play.
June 3, 2025
Review by Trinette Dungee
As far as his father is concerned, Tommy Blackburn has been having far too much fun and it’s about time he curbed his playboy ways and started to take his life seriously. After all, he will someday run the Blackburn ranch. Tommy is sent off to Ireland to work with a former college friend his father’s and he is less than thrilled about not only having his summer hijacked but having to spend it in a foreign country.
But Tommy finds he likes working with Rory Conlan, and he’s learning a lot. He not only likes Rory, but he respects him. While the work is hard, he’s enjoying his time at Glenhaven, and when he meets Rory’s niece Fiona, he begins to think seriously about his future. He’s instantly smitten with her, but he learns that Fiona’s father has plans for her and they do not involve the young American.
Fiona Conlan has lived a lavish life on her family’s horse farm. She’s on the verge of turning eighteen and anxious to live life. Her father is a domineering man who doesn’t think women should do more than marry and have babies. It’s with her Uncle Rory that she gets the attention and encouragement she craves and when she meets the American working with her uncle, she knows exactly who she wants to experience living life with. Tommy Blackburn is handsome and captivating in ways she never thought possible.
Her father had other plans. Her father wants to merge their horse farm with another prominent family’s horse farm, so he’s arranged for Fiona to marry their son. Fiona doesn’t take this request quietly and defies her father at every turn until he hits her with the ultimate threat to make her give in to his demands.
Sadly, it’s a tragic event that give Fiona the bargaining chip she needs to free herself from her father and find her way to Tommy.
The Past takes you back to 1978 when Tommy and Fiona first meet and gives you the backstory to the parents of the Blackburn Children.
When we last encountered the Blackburn family, four of the Blackburn children were in solid relationship and tragedy struck as the Blackburn’s lost Wade.
As I’ve stated before, when I’m reading a book that’s a part of a series (other than the first book), I hardly ever read the blurbs of the upcoming books. Such was the case with this book. So, when I realized it was about Tommy and Fiona, I was a little bit disappointed. I’m not a fan of books that take place in the past in the middle of a series. I find it hard to get into a book where I basically know where it goes (which is probably why I don’t re-read a lot of books). I’d basically resigned that I was going to read this book, but I probably wouldn’t like it very much and it definitely wouldn’t make it to my list of favorite Sawyer books.
Well color me COMPLETELY WRONG! Not only will this make it to my list of favorite Sawyer books, but Tommy and Fiona are going down as one of my favorite couples.
Tommy and Fiona’s story moves fast but it works. The instant chemistry of these two characters jumps off the pages at you. This story gives all the feels, and makes you smile constantly. It’s not just Tommy and Fiona; it’s Rory and his partner Katherine’s relationship too that makes you giddy. These characters were very likable. Even the douche-bag characters fit the story just the right way. I worried that because this was a quick read that things would seem rushed in the book, but the pace was perfect. This was Insta-Love at its best.
While this could be considered a prequel, I think reading it in order fits this series best
This book took me totally by surprise and was one of the sweetest and most romantic books I’ve read in a long time.
As far as his father is concerned, Tommy Blackburn has been having far too much fun and it’s about time he curbed his playboy ways and started to take his life seriously. After all, he will someday run the Blackburn ranch. Tommy is sent off to Ireland to work with a former college friend his father’s and he is less than thrilled about not only having his summer hijacked but having to spend it in a foreign country.
But Tommy finds he likes working with Rory Conlan, and he’s learning a lot. He not only likes Rory, but he respects him. While the work is hard, he’s enjoying his time at Glenhaven, and when he meets Rory’s niece Fiona, he begins to think seriously about his future. He’s instantly smitten with her, but he learns that Fiona’s father has plans for her and they do not involve the young American.
Fiona Conlan has lived a lavish life on her family’s horse farm. She’s on the verge of turning eighteen and anxious to live life. Her father is a domineering man who doesn’t think women should do more than marry and have babies. It’s with her Uncle Rory that she gets the attention and encouragement she craves and when she meets the American working with her uncle, she knows exactly who she wants to experience living life with. Tommy Blackburn is handsome and captivating in ways she never thought possible.
Her father had other plans. Her father wants to merge their horse farm with another prominent family’s horse farm, so he’s arranged for Fiona to marry their son. Fiona doesn’t take this request quietly and defies her father at every turn until he hits her with the ultimate threat to make her give in to his demands.
Sadly, it’s a tragic event that give Fiona the bargaining chip she needs to free herself from her father and find her way to Tommy.
The Past takes you back to 1978 when Tommy and Fiona first meet and gives you the backstory to the parents of the Blackburn Children.
When we last encountered the Blackburn family, four of the Blackburn children were in solid relationship and tragedy struck as the Blackburn’s lost Wade.
As I’ve stated before, when I’m reading a book that’s a part of a series (other than the first book), I hardly ever read the blurbs of the upcoming books. Such was the case with this book. So, when I realized it was about Tommy and Fiona, I was a little bit disappointed. I’m not a fan of books that take place in the past in the middle of a series. I find it hard to get into a book where I basically know where it goes (which is probably why I don’t re-read a lot of books). I’d basically resigned that I was going to read this book, but I probably wouldn’t like it very much and it definitely wouldn’t make it to my list of favorite Sawyer books.
Well color me COMPLETELY WRONG! Not only will this make it to my list of favorite Sawyer books, but Tommy and Fiona are going down as one of my favorite couples.
Tommy and Fiona’s story moves fast but it works. The instant chemistry of these two characters jumps off the pages at you. This story gives all the feels, and makes you smile constantly. It’s not just Tommy and Fiona; it’s Rory and his partner Katherine’s relationship too that makes you giddy. These characters were very likable. Even the douche-bag characters fit the story just the right way. I worried that because this was a quick read that things would seem rushed in the book, but the pace was perfect. This was Insta-Love at its best.
While this could be considered a prequel, I think reading it in order fits this series best
This book took me totally by surprise and was one of the sweetest and most romantic books I’ve read in a long time.
May 24, 2025
My first by Sawyer, what rock was I hiding under, seriously. What a journey, what writing, what flair.
I'm gobsmacked. I wasn't prepared at the depth of emotions & power of unbridled true love written so brilliantly
She turns a small town trope into a magical love saga spanning years and generations. I was hooked from chapter one, if you're into epic fairytale, this one is for you. It's gripping, hopeful, heartwarming smelling of fresh new love, as tender as clovers in rain.
“It’s called Glenhaven Estates and it’s just outside a town called Fethard in County Tipperary.”
There's something uniquely delicious about stories set in Ireland. I'm partial to them. And when narrators speak in Irish dialect and accent, I'm a total goner.sean masters and kit Swann bring it to life. But omg Sawyer is like finding a hidden library full of classic books behind a secret door. I'm so swept away, I'll be reading every books she's ever written. I never knew how excited I would be reading a familiar trope with fresh narrative.
This one is Blackburn Family of Blackburn Farms Kentucky and Tommy the heir is sent to GlennHaven to start working and learning ropes at grassroot level.
Here Fiona conlan is the beautiful daughter of Seamus conlan who takes his fancy.
It's forbidden because she's already promised in business arrangement marriage to Brian Kavanagh to merge their farms together.
Heart wants what the heart wants and newly adolescent teens are like wind in the glen, never to be bound in a jar. love blossoms and how!. It's scent filling the Golden Vale, like sunrise on rolling fields. She teaches him about horses and he teaches her how to follow her heart.
“She wasn’t a rebel until I taught her how to be a rebel.”
I'm telling you the descriptions had me yearning to fly to Ireland right away and just immerse myself in its beauty.
The story has ups & downs, upheavles, twists, turns and battle of stubborn generational divide.
Love triumphs in the end, but the gut punch was the sudden twist that had me nearly in tears.
Tommy is flirty, confident, loyal and soooo sexy. Fiona is a true match with her innocent appeal.
Rory was the one I fell for. So I'd like to read more about him.
The book is a virtual Rollercoaster from fantastic highs to teary lows and hopeful love in between.
5 stars as happy as hog in a slop
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I'm gobsmacked. I wasn't prepared at the depth of emotions & power of unbridled true love written so brilliantly
She turns a small town trope into a magical love saga spanning years and generations. I was hooked from chapter one, if you're into epic fairytale, this one is for you. It's gripping, hopeful, heartwarming smelling of fresh new love, as tender as clovers in rain.
“It’s called Glenhaven Estates and it’s just outside a town called Fethard in County Tipperary.”
There's something uniquely delicious about stories set in Ireland. I'm partial to them. And when narrators speak in Irish dialect and accent, I'm a total goner.sean masters and kit Swann bring it to life. But omg Sawyer is like finding a hidden library full of classic books behind a secret door. I'm so swept away, I'll be reading every books she's ever written. I never knew how excited I would be reading a familiar trope with fresh narrative.
This one is Blackburn Family of Blackburn Farms Kentucky and Tommy the heir is sent to GlennHaven to start working and learning ropes at grassroot level.
Here Fiona conlan is the beautiful daughter of Seamus conlan who takes his fancy.
It's forbidden because she's already promised in business arrangement marriage to Brian Kavanagh to merge their farms together.
Heart wants what the heart wants and newly adolescent teens are like wind in the glen, never to be bound in a jar. love blossoms and how!. It's scent filling the Golden Vale, like sunrise on rolling fields. She teaches him about horses and he teaches her how to follow her heart.
“She wasn’t a rebel until I taught her how to be a rebel.”
I'm telling you the descriptions had me yearning to fly to Ireland right away and just immerse myself in its beauty.
The story has ups & downs, upheavles, twists, turns and battle of stubborn generational divide.
Love triumphs in the end, but the gut punch was the sudden twist that had me nearly in tears.
Tommy is flirty, confident, loyal and soooo sexy. Fiona is a true match with her innocent appeal.
Rory was the one I fell for. So I'd like to read more about him.
The book is a virtual Rollercoaster from fantastic highs to teary lows and hopeful love in between.
5 stars as happy as hog in a slop
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June 2, 2025
****ALC****
Thanks to the Authors Agency for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
Tommy and Fiona.
This is one of my favorite books of the year and one of my best reads ever. This book took my breath away in all the best ways.
If there's one thing I wish I could do is read the series from the start because if this book so freaking *chefs kiss* amazing, then I can just imagine how incredible they were too.
I loved how this book started and then we went back in time and relived it with them and then we got back to the present because it makes it feels so much more real. Can we petition for this series to become a TV series? Because while listening, I was literally watching it at the same time. If you love Yellowstone and 1923, this book had that kind of vibe. That forbidden love between Tommy and Fiona, the way they fell for each other, the way he knew something had changed in his mind, in his heart, in his entire body and life when he saw her, the way they fought for their love and would go to the ends of the world to be with each other and not to mention, the way they still after so many tears were still so inlove with each other and how they still gave each other the calm and balance they both still needed.
Overall I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 rating. It's indeed one of the best books I've read and I will never stop saying that, when it ended I was like, come on gimme more because I just wanted to know more about everything they went through. All the ups and downs, all the small and huge details, I wanted more of everything. I loved that it was set way back then, I just loved everything about this book. I also want to talk about how incredible her uncle and aunt were. Her parents were not the best, especially her dad and her mom was a doormat who did whatever her dad said, in the end she did come through in a way. I was sad to see how things went with her siblings, especially her sister because what she protected her from, she actually fell inlove with which was crazy to me but I was still happy to see that she was happy. I hope we get a book about her sister because I think we would be great to see a reunion. The saddest parts are of her uncle and her younger son, my heart broke for her and you could see how she was truly taken by what happened to them both. This book was so freaking interesting and such a journey.
I sometimes go in blind when signing up for ALCs or ARCs, I just see the tropes or read a little of the blurb and I'm inlove and I'm so happy I signed up for this book. I look forward to more from this author, this was my first time reading from her and it was *chefs kiss*, didn't disappoint one bit.
Thanks to the Authors Agency for selecting me for this ARC. And a HUGE!!! thank you to the wonderful author for writing this amazing book. THANK YOU!!! ❤❤❤
Tommy and Fiona.
This is one of my favorite books of the year and one of my best reads ever. This book took my breath away in all the best ways.
If there's one thing I wish I could do is read the series from the start because if this book so freaking *chefs kiss* amazing, then I can just imagine how incredible they were too.
I loved how this book started and then we went back in time and relived it with them and then we got back to the present because it makes it feels so much more real. Can we petition for this series to become a TV series? Because while listening, I was literally watching it at the same time. If you love Yellowstone and 1923, this book had that kind of vibe. That forbidden love between Tommy and Fiona, the way they fell for each other, the way he knew something had changed in his mind, in his heart, in his entire body and life when he saw her, the way they fought for their love and would go to the ends of the world to be with each other and not to mention, the way they still after so many tears were still so inlove with each other and how they still gave each other the calm and balance they both still needed.
Overall I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 rating. It's indeed one of the best books I've read and I will never stop saying that, when it ended I was like, come on gimme more because I just wanted to know more about everything they went through. All the ups and downs, all the small and huge details, I wanted more of everything. I loved that it was set way back then, I just loved everything about this book. I also want to talk about how incredible her uncle and aunt were. Her parents were not the best, especially her dad and her mom was a doormat who did whatever her dad said, in the end she did come through in a way. I was sad to see how things went with her siblings, especially her sister because what she protected her from, she actually fell inlove with which was crazy to me but I was still happy to see that she was happy. I hope we get a book about her sister because I think we would be great to see a reunion. The saddest parts are of her uncle and her younger son, my heart broke for her and you could see how she was truly taken by what happened to them both. This book was so freaking interesting and such a journey.
I sometimes go in blind when signing up for ALCs or ARCs, I just see the tropes or read a little of the blurb and I'm inlove and I'm so happy I signed up for this book. I look forward to more from this author, this was my first time reading from her and it was *chefs kiss*, didn't disappoint one bit.
June 2, 2025
Fiona & Tommy ... a love story
Bluegrass Empires is a favourite series of mine by Sawyer Bennett, and now she brings the story of how Fiona Conlan and Tommy Blackburn meet. THE PAST is an emotional story of power, control, friendship, and love.
It's the present day and Fiona is mourning the loss of her son. While looking through old family photos she is asked by her granddaughter to tell the story of how she and Tommy met. So begins a love story, a kind of fairy tale, filled with passion, heartache, betrayal, and love set during the 1970s in Ireland.
Fiona Conlan had lived all her seventeen years on her family's breeding and training estate, Glenhaven. She had dreams and passions for her future, but these were squashed by her strict father who had other plans for her. Her only support came from her uncle, who encouraged her passion for steeple chasing, a sport not considered ladylike. Tommy Blackburn, heir to the Blackburn Empire in Kentucky, enjoyed partying and chasing girls too much, so his father sent him to Glenhaven for the summer, hopefully to learn some responsibility before returning to college. Meeting each other would set their lives on a path neither would have expected.
Fiona and Tommy's love story was beautiful, set against the rolling hills of Tipperary and the lush green fields of Glenhaven. The chemistry, banter, and their love of horses ensured their friendship would grow and evolve. i loved that Tommy encouraged and supported Fiona's dream of steeple chasing, he could see that she was in her element when she rode. I also enjoyed the stories Fiona shared with tommy about Ireland and the county in which she lived. They both had passion, respect, and an understanding of each other's dreams and desires. The fact that Fiona was willing to sacrifice herself and her love for Tommy for her family was heartbreaking. Falling for each other was the easy part, staying together was going to be harder.
THE PAST is the conclusion to the Bluegrass Empires series, and it was the perfect finale. The vivid descriptions of the Irish countryside, the powerful emotions, and two incredible characters pulled me in and wouldn't let me go. Sawyer has shown family can be either a treasure or a curse, not only that, she has also shown that love has the possibility to conquer all.
Another fabulous addition to this already wonderful series.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Bluegrass Empires is a favourite series of mine by Sawyer Bennett, and now she brings the story of how Fiona Conlan and Tommy Blackburn meet. THE PAST is an emotional story of power, control, friendship, and love.
It's the present day and Fiona is mourning the loss of her son. While looking through old family photos she is asked by her granddaughter to tell the story of how she and Tommy met. So begins a love story, a kind of fairy tale, filled with passion, heartache, betrayal, and love set during the 1970s in Ireland.
Fiona Conlan had lived all her seventeen years on her family's breeding and training estate, Glenhaven. She had dreams and passions for her future, but these were squashed by her strict father who had other plans for her. Her only support came from her uncle, who encouraged her passion for steeple chasing, a sport not considered ladylike. Tommy Blackburn, heir to the Blackburn Empire in Kentucky, enjoyed partying and chasing girls too much, so his father sent him to Glenhaven for the summer, hopefully to learn some responsibility before returning to college. Meeting each other would set their lives on a path neither would have expected.
Fiona and Tommy's love story was beautiful, set against the rolling hills of Tipperary and the lush green fields of Glenhaven. The chemistry, banter, and their love of horses ensured their friendship would grow and evolve. i loved that Tommy encouraged and supported Fiona's dream of steeple chasing, he could see that she was in her element when she rode. I also enjoyed the stories Fiona shared with tommy about Ireland and the county in which she lived. They both had passion, respect, and an understanding of each other's dreams and desires. The fact that Fiona was willing to sacrifice herself and her love for Tommy for her family was heartbreaking. Falling for each other was the easy part, staying together was going to be harder.
THE PAST is the conclusion to the Bluegrass Empires series, and it was the perfect finale. The vivid descriptions of the Irish countryside, the powerful emotions, and two incredible characters pulled me in and wouldn't let me go. Sawyer has shown family can be either a treasure or a curse, not only that, she has also shown that love has the possibility to conquer all.
Another fabulous addition to this already wonderful series.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
June 3, 2025
The Past is the fourth book in the Bluegrass Empires series and takes us back to where it all began, in Ireland.
Fiona is the oldest child of her parents. Her father is very controlling and her mother does what she is told to do. Her father and uncle own and run the breeding and training programs at the Conlan estate. Being female, she was not allowed to train or race the horses. She was expected to marry a man her father chose for her in order to benefit the family and his wealth.
Tommy is a rebel. He likes to party. He takes for granted what he has with his family because he does not know any better. He shows up to work when he wants and does not work as hard as he could. His father has had enough and arranges to send him to Ireland to work on the Conlan estate with his friend, Rory, who he went to college with.
When Tommy and Fiona meet at the training area, he is immediately smitten, but he knows she is off limits. He is not ready for a relationship and she is not ready for just one night. Plus she is only 17 and he is 19. Can we say possible legal issues? Well maybe, maybe not. We are in Ireland so the laws may be different.
Over time, these two become friends. She confides in him and he actually listens to her. As things get tense with her father, she turns to Tommy more and more. The one good thing she has going for her is that her uncle Rory is on her side and supports her spending time with Tommy.
Rory also supports her riding and training. So much so that he books her in a steeplechase run. She was so nervous and yet so excited to be competing, especially against all of the boys. She did well, but sadly there was an accident near the end that caused Rory to have to leave her and Tommy to return home together, without him.
When tragedy strikes the estate, many assume that Fiona will due her duty to her family. But surprisingly, she becomes the one with all of the power. But what she gives up to obtain her freedom is a reminder that sometimes old school ways are not always the best.
I laughed and I cried through this book as I listened to Tommy and Fiona recall their love story to their granddaughter. Their connection is stronger than ever, but reliving the story brought up emotions and events that will make you gasp and cry.
The old school ways that Fiona's father tried to control her and amass more wealth was appalling. I know that was the way of life back then, but not everyone fits into that mold. She definitely did not. And I loved watching her fight it with everything she had. She has a backbone and is not afraid to speak her mind when necessary.
Watching her bulldoze her father at the end and get what she wanted made me so happy. Even though it cost her a relationship with her family, she got Tommy and her own family. She is respected in her community and in her family. She is a Queen.
Sean Masters is divine as Tommy. His voice is so smooth and sensual as he woos Fiona, but strong when confronting her father. I am really enjoying listening to his voice so much. He is a master at his craft. Kit Swann playing Fiona was a hoot. Listening to the Irish lilt was a charm. She portrays the strength Fiona has, but also the vulnerabilities when dealing with her parents and their controlling ways.
Fiona is the oldest child of her parents. Her father is very controlling and her mother does what she is told to do. Her father and uncle own and run the breeding and training programs at the Conlan estate. Being female, she was not allowed to train or race the horses. She was expected to marry a man her father chose for her in order to benefit the family and his wealth.
Tommy is a rebel. He likes to party. He takes for granted what he has with his family because he does not know any better. He shows up to work when he wants and does not work as hard as he could. His father has had enough and arranges to send him to Ireland to work on the Conlan estate with his friend, Rory, who he went to college with.
When Tommy and Fiona meet at the training area, he is immediately smitten, but he knows she is off limits. He is not ready for a relationship and she is not ready for just one night. Plus she is only 17 and he is 19. Can we say possible legal issues? Well maybe, maybe not. We are in Ireland so the laws may be different.
Over time, these two become friends. She confides in him and he actually listens to her. As things get tense with her father, she turns to Tommy more and more. The one good thing she has going for her is that her uncle Rory is on her side and supports her spending time with Tommy.
Rory also supports her riding and training. So much so that he books her in a steeplechase run. She was so nervous and yet so excited to be competing, especially against all of the boys. She did well, but sadly there was an accident near the end that caused Rory to have to leave her and Tommy to return home together, without him.
When tragedy strikes the estate, many assume that Fiona will due her duty to her family. But surprisingly, she becomes the one with all of the power. But what she gives up to obtain her freedom is a reminder that sometimes old school ways are not always the best.
I laughed and I cried through this book as I listened to Tommy and Fiona recall their love story to their granddaughter. Their connection is stronger than ever, but reliving the story brought up emotions and events that will make you gasp and cry.
The old school ways that Fiona's father tried to control her and amass more wealth was appalling. I know that was the way of life back then, but not everyone fits into that mold. She definitely did not. And I loved watching her fight it with everything she had. She has a backbone and is not afraid to speak her mind when necessary.
Watching her bulldoze her father at the end and get what she wanted made me so happy. Even though it cost her a relationship with her family, she got Tommy and her own family. She is respected in her community and in her family. She is a Queen.
Sean Masters is divine as Tommy. His voice is so smooth and sensual as he woos Fiona, but strong when confronting her father. I am really enjoying listening to his voice so much. He is a master at his craft. Kit Swann playing Fiona was a hoot. Listening to the Irish lilt was a charm. She portrays the strength Fiona has, but also the vulnerabilities when dealing with her parents and their controlling ways.
May 25, 2025
**Audiobook Review**
After three books in this series, we finally get the story of the original Blackburns and how they met. “The Past” is a heartfelt, romantic and eye opening opposites attract small town romance that was a great conclusion to the series.
Tommy Blackburn is 19 and the heir to the Blackburn Empire one day. He’s young and has been enjoying his time living his life as a young cowboy in Texas. However, his Dad has other ideas for this summer and sends him to Ireland to work on a different kind of horse farm to learn the value of what he has. And the last thing he was expecting was to meet a fiery Irishwoman who caught his eye almost immediately. Fiona Conlan has grown up on her family’s farm but dreams of more and getting away from her overbearing parents. Especially her Dad who wants to marry her off to the son of a wealthy family so they can expand their empire. Fiona is against all of this but has no way out because of how Ireland is in the 1970s. And the last thing she was expecting that summer was to fall for the American cowboy from Texas.
I loved getting to know Tommy and Fiona in the previous books and devoured their story once the audio hit my device. The two have a love that has lasted decades and I loved how it started one summer in Ireland. Tommy is fun, smart and wants to enjoy his life until he has to assume responsibility one day. Fiona is independent, caring and just wants a chance to live her life how she wants. She loves horses and wants that to be a part of her future but not with a man she doesn't love. I loved how these two met and how their relationship developed. It wasn’t forced and it flowed so naturally. They had a secret relationship because her father wouldn’t approve but that didn’t dim the intensity of it. They were meant to be from the beginning. The added drama for the farm was great and added so much. The ending was sweet and I loved that we got to see how Tommy and Fiona started.
Sean Masters and Kit Swann narrated as Tommy and Fiona and I loved listening to them bring this story to life. Sean’s narration was protective, flirty, and kind just like Tommy. Kit was wonderful as Fiona. Her Irish accent was great and she brought the caring and fiery Irishwoman alive perfectly.
After three books in this series, we finally get the story of the original Blackburns and how they met. “The Past” is a heartfelt, romantic and eye opening opposites attract small town romance that was a great conclusion to the series.
Tommy Blackburn is 19 and the heir to the Blackburn Empire one day. He’s young and has been enjoying his time living his life as a young cowboy in Texas. However, his Dad has other ideas for this summer and sends him to Ireland to work on a different kind of horse farm to learn the value of what he has. And the last thing he was expecting was to meet a fiery Irishwoman who caught his eye almost immediately. Fiona Conlan has grown up on her family’s farm but dreams of more and getting away from her overbearing parents. Especially her Dad who wants to marry her off to the son of a wealthy family so they can expand their empire. Fiona is against all of this but has no way out because of how Ireland is in the 1970s. And the last thing she was expecting that summer was to fall for the American cowboy from Texas.
I loved getting to know Tommy and Fiona in the previous books and devoured their story once the audio hit my device. The two have a love that has lasted decades and I loved how it started one summer in Ireland. Tommy is fun, smart and wants to enjoy his life until he has to assume responsibility one day. Fiona is independent, caring and just wants a chance to live her life how she wants. She loves horses and wants that to be a part of her future but not with a man she doesn't love. I loved how these two met and how their relationship developed. It wasn’t forced and it flowed so naturally. They had a secret relationship because her father wouldn’t approve but that didn’t dim the intensity of it. They were meant to be from the beginning. The added drama for the farm was great and added so much. The ending was sweet and I loved that we got to see how Tommy and Fiona started.
Sean Masters and Kit Swann narrated as Tommy and Fiona and I loved listening to them bring this story to life. Sean’s narration was protective, flirty, and kind just like Tommy. Kit was wonderful as Fiona. Her Irish accent was great and she brought the caring and fiery Irishwoman alive perfectly.
May 20, 2025
Fiona was still mourning her son, Wade's death and was looking at old picture albums. When her granddaughter, Sylvie comes into the room, she is very interested in the old family pictures. Grandpa Tommy enters the room and together they start to explain the story about how Fiona Conlan and Tommy Blackburn met and fell in love.
During Tommy's sophomore year of college he was having a little too much fun so his parents decided to send him to Ireland to work on his dad's friend's horse farm during the upcoming summer break. Tommy balked about leaving but little did he know that he was going to meet his future over in Ireland.
The moment Tommy saw Fiona he was smitten. After only a few weeks he knew that she was The One! Too bad Fiona's father had a different plan in mind. Fiona was raised by a very strict and demanding father who cared more about his horse farm than his own children. When Fiona finally stands up to her father, the unthinkable happens. Now that her life is in shambles, she turns to the only father figure she has really ever known....her Uncle Rory. Uncle Rory helps her overcome her problems under her father drops a huge ultimatum! Realizing Fiona has no choice she does as her father wishes.
While trying to figure out her life, something tragic happens and everything falls apart. Just when Fiona feels like her life is imploding, an angel comes through and gives her just what she needs to get her happy ever after.....Tommy! In a surprising twist, Fiona heads to Kentucky, USA to surprise Tommy and they finally get their perfect ending.
I just adored this sweet, opposites attract, long distance relationship. Tommy fell so hard for Fiona and it was beautiful to watch. Fiona just adored Tommy and for once in her life felt seen and cherished. It really brings to life how life was back in the 1970's in other countries. In the end this was a wonderful, emotional read that I just loved.
During Tommy's sophomore year of college he was having a little too much fun so his parents decided to send him to Ireland to work on his dad's friend's horse farm during the upcoming summer break. Tommy balked about leaving but little did he know that he was going to meet his future over in Ireland.
The moment Tommy saw Fiona he was smitten. After only a few weeks he knew that she was The One! Too bad Fiona's father had a different plan in mind. Fiona was raised by a very strict and demanding father who cared more about his horse farm than his own children. When Fiona finally stands up to her father, the unthinkable happens. Now that her life is in shambles, she turns to the only father figure she has really ever known....her Uncle Rory. Uncle Rory helps her overcome her problems under her father drops a huge ultimatum! Realizing Fiona has no choice she does as her father wishes.
While trying to figure out her life, something tragic happens and everything falls apart. Just when Fiona feels like her life is imploding, an angel comes through and gives her just what she needs to get her happy ever after.....Tommy! In a surprising twist, Fiona heads to Kentucky, USA to surprise Tommy and they finally get their perfect ending.
I just adored this sweet, opposites attract, long distance relationship. Tommy fell so hard for Fiona and it was beautiful to watch. Fiona just adored Tommy and for once in her life felt seen and cherished. It really brings to life how life was back in the 1970's in other countries. In the end this was a wonderful, emotional read that I just loved.
June 2, 2025
It's been a while since I've read or listened to a Sawyer Bennett book and let me say it's been wayyyy too long. When checking my emails I saw this pop up in my sign ups and reading the tropes, I knew I needed to jump on this one. A lot of what I've been reading has been pretty dark or at least pretty similar. This involved taking a step back in time and going back to the roots of an established family and seeing how it all began.
This book begins with the family getting together after the loss of Wade. Fiona spends her time telling her granddaughter the story of how their family began, which leads us back to Ireland and two young teenagers just starting their lives. Tommy is to be the heir of the Blackburn Empire but seems to be set on sowing his wild oats and can't keep himself from his partying ways. His father sends him to Glenhaven to work for the summer before returning for college in hopes of getting his act together and being ready to take on the responsibilities that lie ahead.
Fiona is one of the daughters of Seamus Conlan and one of the owners of Glenhaven. Practically engaged through an agreement by her father with another property owner, Fiona knows that her life has been determined despite having dreams of her own. She meets Tommy and he's different. He's encouraging of her dreams. They have banter and an attraction builds. Given that we know that this is book is the start of an entire family, we know that Fi and Tommy get their happy ending, but there are obstacles for sure. Mostly her father.
The audiobook is fantastic. Sean Master and Kit Swann deliver with the Irish accents. And while this book doesn't have a ton of spice, the romance is there and it builds. I'll rate it a 1.5 on spice, which is appropriate given the characters ages at the time. An enjoyable listen. This book gave the feel of a miniseries or movie of the week and I loved it.
Thanks to The Author Agency and Sawyer Bennett for this very sweet listen. I enjoyed it very much and am running to jump back on board the Sawyer Bennett train.
This book begins with the family getting together after the loss of Wade. Fiona spends her time telling her granddaughter the story of how their family began, which leads us back to Ireland and two young teenagers just starting their lives. Tommy is to be the heir of the Blackburn Empire but seems to be set on sowing his wild oats and can't keep himself from his partying ways. His father sends him to Glenhaven to work for the summer before returning for college in hopes of getting his act together and being ready to take on the responsibilities that lie ahead.
Fiona is one of the daughters of Seamus Conlan and one of the owners of Glenhaven. Practically engaged through an agreement by her father with another property owner, Fiona knows that her life has been determined despite having dreams of her own. She meets Tommy and he's different. He's encouraging of her dreams. They have banter and an attraction builds. Given that we know that this is book is the start of an entire family, we know that Fi and Tommy get their happy ending, but there are obstacles for sure. Mostly her father.
The audiobook is fantastic. Sean Master and Kit Swann deliver with the Irish accents. And while this book doesn't have a ton of spice, the romance is there and it builds. I'll rate it a 1.5 on spice, which is appropriate given the characters ages at the time. An enjoyable listen. This book gave the feel of a miniseries or movie of the week and I loved it.
Thanks to The Author Agency and Sawyer Bennett for this very sweet listen. I enjoyed it very much and am running to jump back on board the Sawyer Bennett train.
May 21, 2025
I have loved Bennett's Bluegrass Empires series that allowed me to feel like I had developed a strong connection with all the family members, making me feel like I'm right there, almost like a part of the Blackburn family. So it was so magical and fun to go back in time and see how this wonderful family began with Tommy and Fiona meeting as teenagers. Fiona was the eldest daughter of the Conlan family and was expected to marry into another family to help strengthen their horse breeding empire. Fiona felt trapped by her circumstances but her spirited and brave nature made her want to test those boundaries. Tommy Blackburn was partying too much in college, so his parents sent him to Ireland to work on the Conlan farm to help prepare him to eventually take over his family business. When Tommy and Fiona meet, there is an instant connection. They soon become friends, talking into the night, sharing their hopes and dreams. He helps her gain her confidence to fly and be her own person. Fiona awakens a desire in Tommy he has never felt before. He wants to be a better man for his family and a man who is worthy of Fiona. As their desires grow hotter, their situations become more complicated. How will they be able to resolve their growing feelings when Tommy has to go back to Kentucky, and Fiona is about to lose everything? I loved how this story was told in flashback memories. Tommy and Fiona were both strong characters and it was so satisfying watching them challenge and support each other, making each other stronger, and their slow-burn chemistry leaped right off the page. This beautifully moving and heartfelt story was everything I didn't know I needed, and made me love the Blackburn family even more!
I love that Sean Masters and Kit Swann continue to narrate this series. Their accents and dynamic inflections are flawless and feel so natural. I really enjoy listening to their captivating performance that brings such depth to all the characters, and make this story even better!
I love that Sean Masters and Kit Swann continue to narrate this series. Their accents and dynamic inflections are flawless and feel so natural. I really enjoy listening to their captivating performance that brings such depth to all the characters, and make this story even better!
June 3, 2025
The Past is a Prequel to the Blackburn series. It is the final book in the series and is told from sort of a "post-quel" or memory view by Fiona.
If you have followed the series, you know that the Blackburn family are very successful at raising saddlebred horses in Lexington, Kentucky. We have seen the stories of several of the heads of the family, Tommy and Fiona Blackburn. Their stories have not been without some sadness but they have always had a happily ever after.
At the end of the last story, the family went through the tragedy of losing one of the sons. In this story, it is not too long after Wade's death and Fiona is approached by her granddaughter, Sylvie, while Fiona is looking through old photo albums Sylvie asks to hear the story of how Fiona and Tommy, her grandparents, met.
The story is mostly set in Ireland, where Fiona is from. Tommy was sent to Ireland to spend the summer working with the horses on Fiona's uncle's half of the family ranch. He meets Fiona and is instantly smitten. The feeling is mutual. Unfortunately, Fiona's father is a tyrant and wants Fiona to marry the son from another wealthy horse family so they can combine their farms and wealth. Fiona doesn't want to. Unfortunately, her dad rules with an iron fist.
We see how Fiona struggles to grow into her own person and hold off her father. We also see Tommy and Fiona's Uncle Rory try to help her break free to the life she wants to live.
When tragedy strikes and Tommy has to return to the States, Fiona fears that she may be forced to live a life not of her own choosing after all. But just when it seems that all hope might be lost, Fiona receives the greatest gift.
I read the book and listened to the audio. The audio was narrated by Sean Masters and Kit Swann, who did a wonderful job bringing the characters to life.
June 6, 2025
THE PAST is the fourth instalment in Sawyer Bennett’s contemporary, adult BLUEGRASS EMPIRES: THE BLACKBURNS romance series. This is Tommy Blackburns, and Fiona Conlan’s story line. THE PAST can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty . Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives , set in 1978, THE PAST focuses on the introduction and meeting between Fiona Conlan, and Tommy Blackburn, the current matriarch and patriarch of Kentucky’s Blackburn family. Tommy Blackburn was a bit of a wild child, and the summer following his sophomore year at college, his parents sent him to Ireland, to work for a family friend but Tommy would find more than discipline at the Glenhaven operation, he would find his future in the guise of seventeen year old Fiona Conlan. Fiona Conlan is the eldest daughter of Seamus Conlan, and her future has all but been set in stone until the day she meets our story line hero.
The world building follows Tommy as he ventures to Ireland where he will meet the young woman who will steal his heart but as beautiful as land is, there is a darkness that threatens Tommy and Fiona’s future happiness.
The relationship between Fiona and Tommy begins as a friendship. Tommy is working for Fiona’s uncle Rory and his girlfriend Kathleen but a forbidden affair is about to change the direction of their lives. There are no $ex scenes.
We are introduced to both Tommy and Fiona’s parents; Fiona’s uncle Rory, his girlfriend Kathleen, and Fiona’s siblings Siobhan and Paddy.
THE PAST is a story of family and friendships, power and control, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is revealing and captivating; the characters are determined; the romance is subtle.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives , set in 1978, THE PAST focuses on the introduction and meeting between Fiona Conlan, and Tommy Blackburn, the current matriarch and patriarch of Kentucky’s Blackburn family. Tommy Blackburn was a bit of a wild child, and the summer following his sophomore year at college, his parents sent him to Ireland, to work for a family friend but Tommy would find more than discipline at the Glenhaven operation, he would find his future in the guise of seventeen year old Fiona Conlan. Fiona Conlan is the eldest daughter of Seamus Conlan, and her future has all but been set in stone until the day she meets our story line hero.
The world building follows Tommy as he ventures to Ireland where he will meet the young woman who will steal his heart but as beautiful as land is, there is a darkness that threatens Tommy and Fiona’s future happiness.
The relationship between Fiona and Tommy begins as a friendship. Tommy is working for Fiona’s uncle Rory and his girlfriend Kathleen but a forbidden affair is about to change the direction of their lives. There are no $ex scenes.
We are introduced to both Tommy and Fiona’s parents; Fiona’s uncle Rory, his girlfriend Kathleen, and Fiona’s siblings Siobhan and Paddy.
THE PAST is a story of family and friendships, power and control, acceptance and love. The fast paced premise is revealing and captivating; the characters are determined; the romance is subtle.
copy supplied for review
May 21, 2025
I have loved Bennett's Bluegrass Empires series that allowed me to feel like I had developed a strong connection with all the family members, making me feel like I'm right there, almost like a part of the Blackburn family. So it was so magical and fun to go back in time and see how this wonderful family began with Tommy and Fiona meeting as teenagers. Fiona was the eldest daughter of the Conlan family and was expected to marry into another family to help strengthen their horse breeding empire. Fiona felt trapped by her circumstances but her spirited and brave nature made her want to test those boundaries. Tommy Blackburn was partying too much in college, so his parents sent him to Ireland to work on the Conlan farm to help prepare him to eventually take over his family business. When Tommy and Fiona meet, there is an instant connection. They soon become friends, talking into the night, sharing their hopes and dreams. He helps her gain her confidence to fly and be her own person. Fiona awakens a desire in Tommy he has never felt before. He wants to be a better man for his family and a man who is worthy of Fiona. As their desires grow hotter, their situations become more complicated. How will they be able to resolve their growing feelings when Tommy has to go back to Kentucky, and Fiona is about to lose everything? I loved how this story was told in flashback memories. Tommy and Fiona were both strong characters and it was so satisfying watching them challenge and support each other, making each other stronger, and their slow-burn chemistry leaped right off the page. This beautifully moving and heartfelt story was everything I didn't know I needed, and made me love the Blackburn family even more!
June 6, 2025
THE PAST is the 4th book in the BLUEGRASS EMPIRES series about the Blackburn family by Sawyer Bennett. This is a parent’s origin story: an opposites attract, new adult, forbidden/first love long distance romance in this series of connected standalone novels. This my first book in the series, and I found that it truly stood on its’ own. I will note that this story took place decades before the rest of the series, which probably contributed to its’ readability as a standalone. THE PAST details the story of Fiona Conlon and Tommy Blackwell, who met in Ireland when they were seventeen and nineteen, respectively. His father sent him to work on the thoroughbred farm owned by Fiona’s family, and it was love at first sight. Fiona struggled with the future she wanted and the one her father expected of her. Tommy was forced to wait in the wings while Fiona decided what direction she would take. The book describes family conflict and the pull between what is considered her duty to her family and her love for Tommy and the sacrifices she would have to make regardless. This was an emotional, nostalgic love story, told in dual POV as one large flashback. This author wrote a well written, organized, and paced novel where the couple experienced overwhelming chemistry and some spice. Narrators Kit Swann and Sean Masters did an amazing job representing these characters in their youth and more advanced age as well as providing distinction between the many characters who appeared. I found both formats to be highly enjoyable methods to be transported back to Ireland in the late 1970s. I recommend this book for romance readers who enjoy an opposites attract trope and a story about forbidden love, familial duty, and being true to one’s self.
I received a free ALC and ARC of this novel via The Author Agency. I am voluntarily submitting this honest review.
I received a free ALC and ARC of this novel via The Author Agency. I am voluntarily submitting this honest review.
June 7, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Having a book added to a series that is the older parental unit’s love story doesn’t always work for me. This one did, though. While I’ve enjoyed this series, these stories are by no means my favorites from this author. They were a little harder for me to get into than her other books. But I sank right into this tale and loved living through the young love of Fiona and Tommy.
The Blackburn family isn’t small, but this book doesn’t include all of the current Blackburns. It’ll be easy to read as a standalone, but it will spoil a few things from the previous books if that matters to you. Other than the initial setup, this story sweeps you back to the 1970s and Ireland, where Fiona was born and raised, and finds the restrictions her father put on her to be miserable. Tommy is in the country for the summer to work for Fiona’s uncle and it is love at first sight.
Tommy is only a couple of years older than Fiona, but she’s been so sheltered by her father that he knows she is really quite naïve about certain things. Yet, at the same time, Fiona has a maturity about her because of her father. She’s had to learn to play his mental games and skirt around his watchful eye to do something as simple as ride a horse on a flipping horse breeding and training farm. These two fit together like two puzzle pieces. They balance each other and support each other from the very beginning.
This story moves fast. The love story is a whirlwind and the feelings are intense. I cried along with the characters when there was tragedy, but I also got swept up in their joyous love.
The Blackburn family isn’t small, but this book doesn’t include all of the current Blackburns. It’ll be easy to read as a standalone, but it will spoil a few things from the previous books if that matters to you. Other than the initial setup, this story sweeps you back to the 1970s and Ireland, where Fiona was born and raised, and finds the restrictions her father put on her to be miserable. Tommy is in the country for the summer to work for Fiona’s uncle and it is love at first sight.
Tommy is only a couple of years older than Fiona, but she’s been so sheltered by her father that he knows she is really quite naïve about certain things. Yet, at the same time, Fiona has a maturity about her because of her father. She’s had to learn to play his mental games and skirt around his watchful eye to do something as simple as ride a horse on a flipping horse breeding and training farm. These two fit together like two puzzle pieces. They balance each other and support each other from the very beginning.
This story moves fast. The love story is a whirlwind and the feelings are intense. I cried along with the characters when there was tragedy, but I also got swept up in their joyous love.
May 31, 2025
So many of my favorite authors have been releasing books set in the late 1900s and I’m obsessed with each and every one of them. The Past is a prequel for the Bluegrass Empire series for the parents Fiona and Tommy set in Ireland in 1978 and it’s just phenomenal. I never really realized how similar two peoples lives could be in the two locations, Kentucky and Ireland but this book really shows how similar interest and values will make people connect on a deeper level. Fiona is an eldest daughter and has a lot of pressure to marry the right person to help continue the their farm’s legacy and the pressure eventually combusts as she fights to have control over her life. Tommy is sent to Ireland to appreciate working on another horse farm after getting into too much trouble back home in Kentucky and quickly falls for his boss’s niece, Fiona. They have such a hard story, they have to survive a love story that encompasses two continents, legal issues, family issues, and grief and their story is addicting as it’s impossible to not root for their love.
Tommy is so supportive of Fiona and her dreams and helps her realize she deserves more than her father’s treatment and works tiredly to protect her from her father. He is willing to risk it all and I love it so much! Fiona falls a little more slowly but it’s so sweet, I loved her POV and how smart she was, and how she was willing to go after what she wants, but also wants willing to sacrifice her happiness for her family entirely. I loved this book so much I couldn’t put it down!
Tommy is so supportive of Fiona and her dreams and helps her realize she deserves more than her father’s treatment and works tiredly to protect her from her father. He is willing to risk it all and I love it so much! Fiona falls a little more slowly but it’s so sweet, I loved her POV and how smart she was, and how she was willing to go after what she wants, but also wants willing to sacrifice her happiness for her family entirely. I loved this book so much I couldn’t put it down!
May 20, 2025
Having read the first three books in this series, I was very pleased to see that the fourth book was about their parents and how they met. Fiona and Tommy might be middle aged now but they had their own love story that was fun to go back in time and witness.
The story started out slow, and that could be because I was still sad over Wade’s passing, and as a mother, I felt for Fiona in her grief. Once she retells her love story to her granddaughter, the story picks up and I was hooked from then on out. So much so I am still awake at two in the morning thinking about them.
Living in the 70’s was hard for a woman, and more so if you had a father like Seamus Colman, he was ruthless and only thought about himself, which made him dangerous. She felt trapped on her family’s estate but luckily she had her fabulous Uncle Rory to back her up. Tommy was in Ireland for the summer for a few reasons but never thought he’d fall for the red headed beauty. It was an instant attraction and respect that made them fall in love so fast. They just needed to get over a few hurdles before they could live out their HEA.
This is the last book in this series and I’m sad to say goodbye to the Blackburn clan. I have enjoyed each and every one of them and recommend them wholeheartedly. I have also listened to each audiobook, and the entire series has been narrated by Kit Swann and Sean Masters. They did great job on every book and bringing the characters to life.
The story started out slow, and that could be because I was still sad over Wade’s passing, and as a mother, I felt for Fiona in her grief. Once she retells her love story to her granddaughter, the story picks up and I was hooked from then on out. So much so I am still awake at two in the morning thinking about them.
Living in the 70’s was hard for a woman, and more so if you had a father like Seamus Colman, he was ruthless and only thought about himself, which made him dangerous. She felt trapped on her family’s estate but luckily she had her fabulous Uncle Rory to back her up. Tommy was in Ireland for the summer for a few reasons but never thought he’d fall for the red headed beauty. It was an instant attraction and respect that made them fall in love so fast. They just needed to get over a few hurdles before they could live out their HEA.
This is the last book in this series and I’m sad to say goodbye to the Blackburn clan. I have enjoyed each and every one of them and recommend them wholeheartedly. I have also listened to each audiobook, and the entire series has been narrated by Kit Swann and Sean Masters. They did great job on every book and bringing the characters to life.
May 20, 2025
Sawyer Bennett delivers yet another emotionally rich novel in The Past, the fourth installment in the Bluegrass Empires series. Though part of a larger saga, this story stands firmly on its own, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of Fiona and Tommy, the matriarch and patriarch of the Blackburn family.
At its core, The Past is a beautifully woven tale of love, resilience, and the weight of family expectations. As Fiona reminisces over photo albums, grieving the loss of her son, she takes her granddaughter, Sylvie, on an intimate journey into her past—back to the moment she met Tommy, a love that defied distance, circumstance, and societal pressures.
Bennett masterfully captures the tensions of young love with Fiona and Tommy—two teenagers from opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean—navigating the challenges of a controlling father who values wealth and the farm over his daughter's happiness. This generational storytelling adds layers of depth, showing how history and choices shape the Blackburn legacy.
With her signature emotional depth and compelling storytelling, Bennett crafts a narrative that is both heartbreaking and uplifting. Readers will find themselves immersed in the love story of Fiona and Tommy, rooting for their triumphs while feeling the sting of their hardships.
Whether you're a longtime fan of the Bluegrass Empires series or a newcomer, The Past is a story that resonates—a testament to the enduring power of love and family.
At its core, The Past is a beautifully woven tale of love, resilience, and the weight of family expectations. As Fiona reminisces over photo albums, grieving the loss of her son, she takes her granddaughter, Sylvie, on an intimate journey into her past—back to the moment she met Tommy, a love that defied distance, circumstance, and societal pressures.
Bennett masterfully captures the tensions of young love with Fiona and Tommy—two teenagers from opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean—navigating the challenges of a controlling father who values wealth and the farm over his daughter's happiness. This generational storytelling adds layers of depth, showing how history and choices shape the Blackburn legacy.
With her signature emotional depth and compelling storytelling, Bennett crafts a narrative that is both heartbreaking and uplifting. Readers will find themselves immersed in the love story of Fiona and Tommy, rooting for their triumphs while feeling the sting of their hardships.
Whether you're a longtime fan of the Bluegrass Empires series or a newcomer, The Past is a story that resonates—a testament to the enduring power of love and family.
June 3, 2025
The Past is a sweet story, giving us the origins of the romance at the core of the fictional Blackburn Empire, Tommy and Fiona's. It's briefly a bit of an opposites attract story, but as they get to know each other they quickly realize that despite a very small age gap (it's only a couple of years, but she's high school age and he's early college) and the fact that their homes are on opposite sides of the Atlantic and they deal with different *kinds* of horses, they actually have a lot in common.
Including a very sweet romance.
Overall I really enjoyed this one--though there is a pretty big impediment to their romance and Fiona's a bit on the young side, I thought they were really cute together and I did enjoy how everything was resolved in the end. I listened to the audiobook version, and though I'm not a huge fan of the female narrator's Irish accent, I did enjoy the experience.
The Past is book 4 in the Bluegrass Empires books at the same time it's pretty much a prequel--the current day wrap-around bits are all that anchor it to its current spot in the series, though, so starting here wouldn't be a bad idea, except that it would give you a major spoiler to something that happens at the end of book 3. But honestly, that might be a good thing, all things considered?
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Including a very sweet romance.
Overall I really enjoyed this one--though there is a pretty big impediment to their romance and Fiona's a bit on the young side, I thought they were really cute together and I did enjoy how everything was resolved in the end. I listened to the audiobook version, and though I'm not a huge fan of the female narrator's Irish accent, I did enjoy the experience.
The Past is book 4 in the Bluegrass Empires books at the same time it's pretty much a prequel--the current day wrap-around bits are all that anchor it to its current spot in the series, though, so starting here wouldn't be a bad idea, except that it would give you a major spoiler to something that happens at the end of book 3. But honestly, that might be a good thing, all things considered?
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
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