The Notebook

Love in Willow Creek #3

by Crystal Walton

When secrets collide with second chances, one week back home puts everything on the line.

It’ll take a miracle to get Avery Taylor through this visit. Between trying to mend a rift with her sister, preventing her mom’s heartache, and navigating choices that could derail everything she’s fought for, Avery has too much at stake to take on anything else this week. Especially the one guy capable of uncaging the pieces of her heart she’d do anything to pretend aren’t still his.

The countdown to landing the job he earnestly needs to take care of his family has musician Jax Ellis up against a wall. With only one week left to come up with the song of a lifetime, fix an unhealable fissure with his dad, and heal a broken relationship with the only girl he’s ever loved, the pressure to redeem his choices before it’s too late threatens to break him to the core.

They’ll pay any cost to take care of their families. But when escalated problems and exposed secrets endanger their last chance to make things right, Jax and Avery must find the faith to confront their deepest failures or risk losing what matters most.

For fans of Mandi Blake and Kimberly Rae Jordan, let the Love in Willow Creek series be the next small-town Christian romance you can’t put down.

Buy The Notebook, Book 3 in the Love in Willow Creek series, today and be swept into a heartwarming second chance romance rooted in healing, family, and the gift of grace.

Categories/
Small Town Family Romance
Contemporary Christian Romance
Second Chance Romance
Christmas Romance Novels

296 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 28, 2025

About the author

Crystal writes sweet romances with humor, broken characters, and emotional plots full of grace and hope. When her hands aren’t full with her very active, little blue-eyed heroes, she's delving into the wonder of words, supporting her Starbucks habit, or laughing over movie quotes with her husband.

Join her on Facebook at facebook.com/crystalwaltonwrites for fun giveaways, chats, and more.

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since getting hints of Jax and Avery’s story in The Corner Bookshop, I’ve been excited to read The Notebook and watch them (hopefully) find their way toward a long overdue happily-ever-after. Both characters are easy to love and wow! the romantic tension between them – the kind that’s born from years of longing and regrets and a last thread of hope – had me holding my breath and rooting for that first-in-a-long-time kiss. I’m delighted to report that, when that moment finally arrived, it was absolutely worth the wait! Full of repressed passion and never-got-over-you love and a little desperation and whew… I *may* have re-read that scene a couple times because it was just perfection.

Neither Jax nor Avery are living exactly the life they imagined they would be, and a big piece missing from each one is the other. It’s like music without lyrics (for Jax) or lyrics without music (for Avery) – it can be enjoyed on some level but it’s just not complete. Not only that but they’re each dealing with some complicated family dynamics too so, combined with their own complex relationship with each other, their respective trips home for the holidays aren’t all sugar cookies & hot chocolate. Under author Crystal Walton’s talented pen, Jax and Avery become multidimensional protagonists with vibrant personalities, and I really enjoyed getting to know them in The Notebook. Their backstories – both shared and separate – kept me invested in their present situations and rooting for their future. I liked this couple a lot and, given the potential stories that Walton set up for Avery’s siblings, I am optimistic that I don’t have to say goodbye to Jax and Avery just yet.

Bottom Line: The Notebook by Crystal Walton is everything sweet and swoony I love in a small town, second chance romance with an added depth of emotion and touching faith notes that also wrapped around my heart. Jax and Avery have a lot to work through to get from where they are to the happily-ever-after their loved ones (and me!) want for them, and I appreciated the honest journey they took in the process. Some continuing story threads from the previous books in the series are developed further in this novel too, but it’s not strictly necessary to have read them first. Both stories are so heartwarming and wonderfully written though, just like The Notebook, so you should definitely put them at the top of your TBR list if you haven’t already. I can’t wait for word of the next book because I want to see what happens with Avery’s siblings and the mystery of Aunt Bev’s journal and Jimmy … all the things! I think I’ll go read that perfect kissing scene again while I wait.

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I read via Kindle Unlimited.)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Notebook is Book 3 in Crystal Walton’s Love in Willow Creek series with Jax’s and Avery’s story. It starts out strong from the first page and doesn’t stop. There is a lot of angst, past regrets, misunderstandings, so many emotions that really bring out the family drama in the story. But there is also a chance at forgiveness and second chances. Although you do not need to read the first two books in the series, it is nice to have the connection with everyone involved. I had a hard time putting this book down and cannot wait for book 4.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jax has never got over Avery, but with both of them living away from Willow Creek, it's been easier pushing her to the back of his mind. Now they're both visiting at the same time, though, he can't help hoping for a second chance. But Avery is reluctant to open herself up to more heartbreak - not to mention they're both struggling with family and work issues. Can they learn to trust, communicate and love, not only between them but with their families?

An inspiring and deeply touching story of working through difficulties and facing problems to achieve a beautiful ending. At times, it was hard to see how they could possibly end up together again with all Avery's reluctance to let Jax in, but it made the final resolution all the sweeter. And while there are some difficult family relationships, it was great to see them coming good (though still a work in progress). I loved getting to know both Jax and Avery better, but also enjoyed seeing a bit more of characters from previous books. Now I'm curious who'll get their story next! While a complete romance and fine to read as a standalone, the notebook itself is part of an ongoing thread through the series and is left unresolved - I'm looking forward to the next book to learn more, as well as to see more of Willow Creek. Recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

[Gena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this ARC from the author - all thoughts and comments are my own.

Once again, Crystal Walton has written another absolutely lovely and amazing story. I don’t know how she does it. She is truly gifted.

Main characters Avery and Jax have known each other since childhood and have been in love since about that time. But because they were young because Jax is such a boy and boys are dumb, he made a decision and with every decision, there is a consequence. They parted due to lack of communication and because boys are dumb.

Returning to their hometown after 8 years apart, feelings for each other are still there. Jax knows it in his heart but Avery is not trusting and honesty, can’t blame her.

This author wrote a story with all the feels of what being a kid and growing up and living life as best as you know how. Avery and Jax have to navigate their family and personal issues and still try to make sense of what they want to do and how they are going to do it.

Crystal throws in some very beautiful, awesome and encouraging morsels that just settled into my heart and made it into my journal.

This is a must read and I encourage you to read it AND all her other books well. She is an excellent writer.

[Marylin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This third book in the Willow Creek series had all the drama and pressures of family life.
It also shows Jax and Avery struggling through their past mistakes and how all they want to do is move forward with their lives. Can they learn to communicate and make a change for the better? Will their words and music soar to touch others’ lives, or will they stay defeated?
Oh, this was a very touching story to read. I could feel each character's emotions.
Crystal Walton's writing is beautiful and flows smoothly. She makes her characters' lives relatable to the reader. She truly has a way of bringing emotions and feelings into her writing. You'll ache, laugh, cry, smile, snort, and do happy dances, all while enjoying a fantastic story!
Throughout this story, there is a bit of a mystery, and we still don’t know all that is happening. I love how that ties her books together, because now I can’t wait for the next book to see what’s happening.
I highly recommend you pick up this book and read it.
The author gave me this book, but this did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jordan Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 Crystal Walton Delivers Another Christmas Gem—Full of Hope and Heart

Crystal Walton never disappoints. This heartwarming Christmas story captures everything I love about her writing—faith, forgiveness, and the beauty of second chances.

Avery and Jax, once young and in love, return to their small hometown after years apart. Both are carrying old wounds and new responsibilities, and neither expects to face the past head-on. Avery’s guarded heart and Jax’s steady hope make their reunion tender, emotional, and full of faith-driven reflection.

Walton has such a gift for creating cozy small towns that feel like home. I love seeing familiar faces from previous books and how effortlessly their lives intertwine. The story blends humor, heart, and grace in a way that feels both real and uplifting.

It’s the perfect holiday read—sweet, faith-filled, and full of warmth. A beautiful reminder that God’s timing is perfect, healing is possible, and love can always find its way back. Another must-read that left me feeling blessed and deeply moved.

[Penny Leidecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy clean second chance romance, you’ll enjoy Jax and Avery’s story. They’ve each moved away from Willow Creek for their careers, but for this Christmas they’re both back in town. They were high school sweethearts and everyone thought they’d stay together forever. Life decisions got in the way, but there’s also misunderstandings and secrets. Will they finally figure things out or will they do what’s best for their families again. I loved the mystery of Aunt Bev’s journal and them trying to figure out who her romantic interest was. Hopefully, the criminals will finally be caught in an upcoming book. I can’t wait to read the next book and see what’s in store for Willow Creek and these characters next.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Elizabeth Fiscus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery and Jax. Two people that were MEANT to be together, but life kept them apart. Life, and growing up, and making sacrifices that brought them further and further apart. When they are both back in their hometown at the same time, Avery is an ice queen, sheilding her heart from any glimpse of what used to be between them. Jax, always the jokester and deflector, tries to not let it show how painful it is to see the rejection time after time. They both get worn down and raw with each other. Real, brutal honesty is the only way they can clear the air to start new.
The emotions on the pages of this book were so REAL! I was feeling everything that the characters were. Grab this book if you second chance love stories! I received and advance copy of this book from the author, but that in no way influenced my review.

[Tracy S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever felt like you always make the wrong choices, say the wrong things, or end up misunderstood—until it all spirals into secrets you never meant to keep?

That’s exactly the journey we step into with Jax and Avery. Once childhood friends, then sweethearts, they’ve spent the last eight years separated by silence and misunderstandings. Jax is determined to win back Avery—the one who got away. Avery, still guarded after eight years of heartbreak, isn’t so easily convinced. But as life throws them together in Willow Creek, old feelings resurface, secrets unravel, and love gets a second shot.

I loved Jax and Avery’s story! It captured me from the start. If you love clean, small-town stories with deep emotion, relatable struggles, and the sweetness of rediscovering love, The Notebook is one you’ll want to pick up.

This was an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) and my honest review.

[Christie Pollard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jax is a musician/songwriter who has come home because of his mother’s medical diagnosis. Avery is his ex-girlfriend to whom he has not spoken in eight years. She has also returned home because of her best friend’s wedding. Is the Lord giving them a second chance at romance?

This book is part of a series that takes place in the small town of Willow Creek. It stands alone but contains two on-going mysteries. It is best to read the books in order for the people and situations to make sense.

The story contains lots of family dynamics – some good, some not so good. There are also many Christian principles, such as prayer and depending on the Lord to work out the solution to our problems.

I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is entirely voluntary and unbiased.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

The notebook is an awesome, clean, heartwarming, small town, second chance romance for Avery and Jax. Both have personal and family issues that must be resolved before they can act on the attraction that has survived eight years apart. The book can stand alone but the series has a mystery ARC so reading the series in order is an excellent plan. Communication between the main characters would clear up some long standing misconceptions but then we would not have as strong a story. Ms. Walton's characters are very relatable, flawed humans but when they trust God and wait for his plan, beautiful things happen. There are so many wonderful moments in this well written book. I do not want to give any spoilers so I will just suggest that you read it for yourself. I could not put it down!

[Lisa's Quips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jax without Avery is music without a song, and everybody knows it...
Jax and Avery pursued their career dreams at the expense of their relationship. Their reunion is strained as they both work through the consequences of their decisions on their dreams and relationships. With some motherly advice and a leap of faith, they both discover the synergistic nature of their dreams.

The characters and their relationships were developed with an emotional depth that brought an intensity to the story and I found myself regularly pausing to ponder and reflect. I enjoyed how aspects of Jax and Avery's past were intertwined with the present and how the challenging dynamics between Jax and his Dad and Avery and her sister were explored alongside Jax and Avery's own relationship. My heart feels full after this read and I look forward to the next installment of Love in Willow Creek.

I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest perspective.

[Jessica Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book!! Book 3 of the Love In Willow Creek series, the whole series has me wrapped in a cozy comforting blanket. Grab your tissues and read with your heart open! I am a musician and this book just spooked to me in my life circumstances. One day I was having a hard time with my kids. Mrs. Ellis came to my rescue with her words of wisdom and love. I want to be her when I grow up💗. This series has taught me it’s ok to take leaps of faith and dream big. I love the banter between Jax and Avery, why are they so stubborn!! I would read these books in order. The characters build on each other. Level 1 Swooney kisses, relationship building, closed door, second chances, I just love this book!!

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 and may be my favorite book, yet, in this Love in Willow Creek series by Crystal Walton. Jax and Avery, high school sweethearts, are both trying to make decisions that help their families. Jax has a history he’s trying to correct and be present for his family. Avery pushes aside her desires for what she thinks is best for her family. They are given a second chance at their relationship and their story is truly a wonderful read. I love the scene where Jax sings to his mom to calm her. I hope there are more books to come in this series, I have some characters in mind that I’d like to learn more about. Love this author and her books!

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Notebook

While Ellie from the first book in the series is preparing for her wedding Avery and Jax are working on their relationship. I enjoyed Jax’s family and how they come together for their parents. Jax wants to make a living being a musician but he is not sure if he can. He needs to help take care of his family. Will things work out for him? The notebook is a great story of second chances and family. Loved the interaction with characters from the first two books. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

I received an advanced copy of the book from the author. This book review is my own opinion.

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.

That was different. Instead of just the main couple making assumptions, some of the secondary characters they deal with also do. Of course, this creates, or exacerbates, troubles for the couple.

Jax was behaving childishly for a time. I actually didn't like him until learning more about him.

Avery takes on more than is her due and much of the time does it in secret.

Hurt feelings, egged on by assumptions, have to be worked through before they find the start to their HEA.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved coming back to Willow Creek to read Jax and Avery's story. They are childhood friends and sweethearts but hurt from 8 years ago overshadows the present, not only for each other but each of their families as well. Thankfully their small town family and friends won't let them get in the way of God's plan for their lives. Crystal is such a talented storyteller, she flawlessly writes with complex emotion and weaves together characters, situations and resolutions for another 5 star must read!

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again failure to communicate and to just assume has made chaos out of the lives of two families. Avery and Jax went separate ways years earlier over a failure to communicate. Unfortunately, that same failure has wreaked havoc with their communication with their families also. That time has also given them time to mature and to help them handle the problems their families are facing. You will find yourself shouting at them to not let everything happen again. I really enjoyed this book.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! The series just keeps getting better and leaves you wishing you had the next book to read right away! Just like in real life, Avery and Jax have secrets and what-ifs that they carry with them and are too afraid to talk about them. Hard decisions are not sugar-coated and they are learning how to navigate life while protecting each other and searching for answers. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

[Michelle Dodge · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a clean romance. It is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone.

Jax is trying to help his family with his mom, however, he struggles with acceptance from his dad. Avery, his ex-girlfriend, used to help with his creative writiTs ng for songs. She doesn't talk to him anymore. They are thrown together for the Christmas season. Can they work together?

This is a good story. It shows the struggle of aging parents and how supportive friends and family can make it work.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

Flow
This story just didn't flow for me, lack of communication, dreams shattered, trying to outrun emotions.
Little things about previous stories helped remind who's who, but again nothing confirmed. New character - possibly involved - more secrets.
Looking forward to book 4 in hopes of getting some closure and or answers.

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story in the Love in Willow Creek Book series. Willow Creek is starting to feel like home. Jax and Avery both face difficult decisions to make about their future while healing from the past. I appreciate Crystal sharing her faith in her books. This one has a cliff hanger at the end so I'm looking forward to Book 4.

[Rhonda Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stellar story from this author. I don’t think I have words to do justice to what I read. A quote that rang of truth: “The part inside her wanting to run to grace chafed against the part burying its face to hide from it.” Enjoy all the truth nuggets throughout the book.

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A notebook might hold the answers to a lifetime of secrets. This story has faith, love, family, relationships, trust, mystery, danger, and more. I'm enjoying this Love in Willow Creek series. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.

[Nari · Rating 5 out of 5]

second chance at love

I love romances where the main characters already have some history together. It gives their relationship depth. This is a second chance romance with a lot of depth and healing involved in the story. I really enjoyed it and would highly recommend it.

[D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful story of Jax and Avery. They each are building a life that is good for each of their families. Their relationship grows and they are destined. This was a really good story.