If I'd Have Known

by Savannah Carlisle

Lose yourself in the stunning coastal town of Big Dune Island with this incredibly heartwarming read, perfect for fans of Denise Hunter, Debbie Macomber, and RaeAnne Thayne. This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.

Gigi Franklin is planning her best friend’s wedding, and long-time friend Austin Beckett is trying to help her keep the private event top secret. As Gigi and Austin work together, sparks begin to fly, but Gigi’s too busy building her law practice to make time for dating.

If the wedding wasn’t enough to manage, she’s also tasked with finding the rightful heir to the local Salty Breeze B&B. Then, newcomer Simon Ridley arrives in town, throwing a wrench in the process.

As Gigi races against time to uncover the truth about the B&B’s ownership and pull off the perfect wedding, an old journal surfaces that might change everything she thought she knew about love.

A moving beach read that will have you yearning to take walks along the coast and craving the beachy splendor of island living. Look no further if you’re searching for a feel-good, small-town coastal romance!

Genres: Audiobook

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 19, 2025

About the author

Savannah Carlisle writes heartwarming romance novels with idyllic beach settings. Her stories transport readers to fun and quirky small towns where friends feel like family. So, if you’re ready for a mental vacation, you’ve come to the right place!⁠

Savannah jokes that she's living her own Hallmark movie because she's a former big city corporate attorney who now lives in the small beach town of Fernandina Beach writing romance novels.

When she isn't busy at her laptop writing her next book, Savannah enjoys putting her feet in the sand with a good book in hand. She lives on Amelia Island in Florida with her husband, German Shepherd, and three cats.

Visit www.SavannahCarlisle.com for Savannah's latest books, updates, reviews of her favorite reads and more. You can also follow Savannah on:

IG: www.instagram.com/savvycarlisle
Facebook: www.facebook.com/savvycarlisle
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@savvycarlisle
X: www.x.com/savvycarlisle

Reviews

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, I love the covers of this serie capture the beachy look and atmosphere of the setting. While, you can probably read this as a standalone, I recommend reading them in order to get the full picture and background of the characters. The northeast Florida setting is fun and one that I am familiar with. Gigi, a local attorney and bestie of Callie from book 1, and Austin, best friend of Jesse from book 1, are working together to make Callie and Jesse's wedding the best and secret with Callie's celebrity status. The group has been friends since elementary school. Austin and Gigi have always had a funny banter but as they work together, they grow closer uniting with similar issues with parents. This is a sweet read that has feel good moments, problems to overcome, and healing. And a lovely wedding.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.

[Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with Big Dune Island in The Summer of Starting Over, and I loved getting to meet Austin and Gigi as Callie and Jesse rekindled their epic love. If I’d Have Known is a stunning sequel in the series following Austin and Gigi as they help plan Callie and Jackson’s secret wedding (because Callie is world famous and also needs to finish her next album) while navigating two tricky issues involving an estate and a foster family placement.

Gigi, a former NYC and now small town attorney, and Austin, a former MLB player and now bakery co-owner with his sister, have known each other for years along with Callie and Jesse. They’ve had friendship and playful banter, but could there be more?

Savannah Carlisle expertly weaves backstory into the plot throughout to let us know the history of the island and its residents. She has created a diverse cast of realistic characters that you can’t help rooting and falling for. While this is a romance, she also tackles tough topics like estate planning, parental friction, foster placements, real estate transactions, and family estrangement. She does so with care and consideration, giving just enough background and detail to understand as the characters work through the problems they ultimately face. Without giving anything away, the epilogue was such a tender moment. I cannot wait to see what happens next on Big Dune Island!

[Milda · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to listen to If I’d Have Known by Savannah Carlisle in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. 🎧

This was a short and sweet listen — maybe a little too sweet for my taste — but it felt like the kind of story you’d want to take along for beach or poolside lounging. 🏖️🍹 I did enjoy the cozy small-town setting and the warm family dynamics, which gave the story a nice heart.

The book alternates between two POVs, but the audiobook only had one narrator. While the performance was fine, I think having a second male narrator would have added more depth and helped bring the dual perspectives to life. 🎙️

Would I recommend it?
Maybe. If you’re looking for something light, wholesome, and easy to enjoy in one sitting, this might be a good fit — but it didn’t fully hit the mark for me.

#IfIdHaveKnown #NetGalley

[Cynthia Zepeda · Rating 3 out of 5]

heartwarming story about childhood friends that end up moving back home after college and reconnecting. They are trying to save a local bed and breakfast. The owner passed away without leaving a will, and they want to prevent its redevelopment. The heir of the B&B is found though and that was a bit of a surprise as to who it was. The main characters, Austin and Gigi, both deal with overbearing parents, and while the ending is a bit predictable, the story is charming and feel-good, even if it’s not particularly exciting.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC

[Yvette Jarrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If I’d Have Known is a heartfelt, feel-good return to Big Dune Island that follows Gigi and Austin as they team up to plan Callie and Jesse’s top-secret wedding—while juggling everything from estate complications to foster-care challenges. What starts as years of teasing friendship slowly transforms into a sweet, slow-burn romance that feels earned, warm, and wonderfully human.

Savannah Carlisle once again shines with her immersive storytelling. She weaves in the island’s history and a cast of vivid, lovable characters you can’t help rooting for. While the romance is front and center, the story also explores deeper themes—family expectations, grief, loyalty, second chances, and the complicated ties between parents and their adult children. Every subplot, from Mrs. Cunningham’s estate to Austin’s little league team (Luke completely stole my heart!), adds richness without overwhelming the story.

Big Dune Island is more than a setting; it’s a community you want to belong to. The friendships, the found-family warmth, and the island’s quirky charm make every page feel like coming home. And for fans of The Summer of Starting Over, seeing Callie, Jesse, Gigi, and Austin again—plus a certain magical wedding—feels like a treat.

If you love small-town romances with great banter, tender slow-burn chemistry, and characters who feel like friends, this is a must-read. I adored every moment and can’t wait to return to Big Dune Island again.

A big thank you to the author for allowing me to reader this advanced readers copy. All opinions are my own.

[thebrunettebookjunkie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I just may love Big Dune Island book 2 more than book 1! Which is so rare! If I'd Have Known was the perfect follow-up story. I loved seeing the gang, Callie, Jesse, Gigi, and Austin again. The relationship build up between Gigi and Austin is a slowwww burn, but it's so worth it. I enjoyed the subplots of this story as well, and I just can't get enough of all the townsfolk of Big Dune Island! Keep'em comimg!!

[Kylie Forsythe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved The Summer of Starting Over and was so excited to return to Big Dune Island for Gigi's story, and get to know Callie, Jesse, and Austin more. When Gigi and Austin offer to help plan Callie and Jesse's wedding and keep it secret from everyone (being famous isn't easy!), they have to spend a lot of time together. I loved the way their story unfolded and the growth they experienced, each in their own lives and together. If you enjoy heartwarming, small town romances with characters you want to be friends with, this book is for you! Thank you to NetGalley and Harpeth Road Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! It's perfect for a sunny day at the beach (for me that's in my imagination!) It's lighthearted and heartwarming.

The characters are wonderful and easy to like! I enjoyed getting to know Gigi, Callie, Jesse, Austin, and the rest of the gang! Their friendships are solid and they love their hometown. The Carsons are heroes in my eyes. The way that they open up their hearts and home to foster children is exemplary.

I look forward to reading many more books by this author!

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series. Author Savannah just knows how to write a wholesome semi romantic book. Great storyline and extremely well written. I am looking forward to reading more and encourage everyone to pickup any of Savannah Carlisle’s books. One of my favourite’s this year.

Thankyou for the opportunity to read these books.

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely & heartwarming small town romance story! I did not see the plot twist coming, so kudos to the author for keeping that under wraps!

Thank you for the ARC of this book, and I’m excited to see what’s next!

[Innergoddess_Booklover · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars ⭐️.. New author to me. This is book 2 in the Big Dune Island. This is a cute story. Enjoyed the characters especially luke. Perfect summer beach side read .

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to follow!

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

If I’d Have Known is a sweet, small-town romance that beautifully captures the essence of love, life, and family. Savannah Carlisle weaves together an endearing story that feels both heartwarming and genuine.

I especially loved the chemistry between Gigi and Austin - their connection was tender, believable, and kept me invested throughout. What made the story even more special was the way the love between Luke, Gigi, and Austin grew and deepened over time. It wasn’t just about romantic love, but also about the bonds of family and the joy that comes from finding where you truly belong.

This book is a perfect pick for anyone who enjoys heartfelt small-town stories full of warmth, romance, and genuine emotion.

Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Select, and Savannah Carlisle for granting me access to this ALC.

[Danielle B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every once in awhile you come across an author who can just speak to your soul -not in a mushy way but in a way that’s so nostalgic. Ya know? Savannah Carlisle is that author for me. Her stories are enthralling, engaging, and the love just jumps off the pages. Speaking of love, it’s not just romantic love either -it’s parents, families, kiddos, and the entirety of Big Dune Island. I’m such a fan of this series and I’m crossing my fingers for Piper’s story next….maybe??? Please? 👀

[VelvetEmbersLibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered If I’d Have Known on NetGalley. This was my first Savannah Carlisle book, and I’m officially hooked! Savannah Carlisle had found a permanent spot on my bookshelf. Set on the charming Big Dune Island, this follow-up to The Summer of Starting Over can easily be read as a standalone, but fans of the first book will love revisiting the Island and seeing familiar faces.

This time we follow Gigi Franklin, a lawyer juggling the challenge of planning her best friend Callie’s top-secret wedding while also running her own law practice. Helping her is Austin, her longtime friend she’s never quite crossed the romantic line with. Both had left the island to chase careers, but life has brought them back… and maybe, just maybe, back to each other, and as they navigate wedding chaos, they just might find their own second chance at love

This book is so much more than just romance, it’s a heartfelt exploration of family expectations, grief, loyalty, and the sometimes complicated relationships we have with our parents. Both Gigi and Austin carry the weight of parental pressure and past wounds, and watching them navigate that alongside their growing feelings made the romance all the sweeter.

The small-town setting is so vivid that you don’t just read about Big Dune Island, you feel like you’re actually there! It isn’t just a backdrop, it’s a character in its own right. From the warmth of found family to the banter between friends, every relationship feels lived-in and real. I adored the found family dynamic, the quirky community that make the island feel alive, and the way every side character feels important. I especially loved the subplot involving Mrs. Cunningham’s estate, which adds heart and a touch of mystery, and Luke, one of the kids on Austin’s little league team, is an absolute standout and completely stole my heart! He brings so much warmth and charm to the story that I found myself looking forward to every scene he was in.

The romance between Gigi and Austin is a slow burn with low spice but plenty of swoony moments, witty banter, and heart. And for returning readers, the Callie and Jesse wedding is pure magic! Emotional, sweet, and the perfect bow on their story.

This is the kind of book that makes you laugh, tear up, and close the final page with a smile. It’s heartfelt and cozy! It leaves you feeling lighter, happier, and brimming with the kind of charm that makes you wish you could pack your bags for Big Dune Island immediately.

If you love small-town romance with found family, swoony relationships, and just enough twists to keep you on your toes, you need Savannah Carlisle on your shelf.

[Maxine (The Bookish Brew) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savannah Carlisle has quickly become one of my favorite romance authors. Reading her books feels like curling up in front of a crackling fireplace on a chilly winter day, hot chocolate in hand 🥰 pure, cozy bliss. Her stories wrap around you like a warm blanket and leave you with all the gushy, feel-good vibes.🤭✨️

After The Summer of Starting Over, I was just about ready to pack my bags and move to Big Dune Island. So naturally, I couldn't wait for Gigi and Austin’s story... and let me tell you, it hit me right in the feels and then some! Total home run. ⚾️

The small-town charm pulls you in from the very first page. But what makes this book so special is that it's more than just a love story. I was just as invested in the town’s quirky dynamics, its historic buildings, and the lovable side characters as I was in the romance. This book delivers beautiful friendships, a heartwarming found family, and a journey of healing that had me smiling, sighing, and (yes) crying.

And for all the Callie and Jesse fans? 🤩😍 The spectacular wedding that ties their love story up with a bow is just so perfect🥹, it might as well come with its own Hallmark channel jingle.🎊(And yes! I am forever a Callie and Jesse fan 😁😍)

Savannah Carlisle’s writing is unusually immersive for a contemporary romance, it’s the kind of world-building you usually find in fantasy novels. You don’t just read about Big Dune Island, you feel like you're there, digging your toes into the sand while the ocean waves crash around you. 🌊 It's the ultimate mental vacation and a breath of fresh air for contemporary romance.

I adored everything about Austin and Gigi’s journey 🥰 From the friends-to-lovers sweetness, the found family vibes, to that ending that had me absolutely bawling in the best possible way.🥹 (Luke is just so special!!)

If you’re a romance reader who craves charming small towns, swoony relationships, perfect HEAs, and just the right amount of plot twists to keep you on your toes, then you need Savannah Carlisle on your shelf immediately!!!

Huge thanks to the author for the chance to be an early ARC reader... All thoughts,gushing (and weeping) are entirely my own. 😅

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved getting to return to the small historic coastal town of Big Dune Island for Callie and Jesse’s wedding, in If I’d Have Known. This is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone, although I suggest reading the first book for more background. If I’d Have Known is Gigi and Austin’s story. Gigi is Callie’s best friend and Austin is Jesse’s best friend. The group of friends and the community are planning Callie and Jesse’s wedding but want to keep it a secret so that the media and paparazzi won’t ruin the big day. I loved that we got to be there for Callie and Jesse’s wedding, but I really enjoyed Gigi and Austin’s friends-to-lovers relationship that felt mature and natural. I loved the addition of a positive foster care representation in the story. All the music and baseball references and puns were a fun addition as well. I also found all the historical homes/buildings and land conservation and preservation interesting. The plotline was very intriguing, a sweet romance mixed with a little mystery, and the characters are well developed, relatable, and easy to connect with. I love when the side characters are just as important as the main characters and they definitely added more depth to this story.

I grabbed a copy of the audiobook because I enjoyed Melie Williams' performance in the first book. She has the perfect cheerful, energetic voice for this charming, feel-good series. She did a fantastic job with tone and voice differentiating the multiple eccentric characters and giving each their own voice. Her narration makes the characters and story come to life and creates a great immersive experience.

Thank you @harpethroadpress, @savycarlisle & @uplitreads for the #gifted ARC and finished copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[GroveLifeLit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savannah Carlisle has once again written the most perfect smile inducing cozy story. This is the second book of The Big Dune series and just like the first, this one left me with biggest smile. The character development and story line come together to create a story that will warm your heart and make you feel as though you just visited the most delightful beach town and made some great new friends.

If I’d Have Known focuses on Gigi and Austin as they work together to plan Callie and Jesse’s secret wedding. Gigi and Austin will have to work together in order to make this the wedding of Callie’s dreams. To pull everything off, Gigi will have to trust Austin in a way she has not been able to before. They will both learn more about each other and how similar they really are. I really liked that Austin helps Gigi realize that you can still be responsible and get things done while letting loose a little. As the planning progresses, they begin to find themselves looking forward to their time together and learning how their similarities and differences are highly complimentary and bring out each other’s strengths.

Gigi and Austin might just find themselves planning more than Callie and Jesse’s wedding.

If I’d Have Known is an absolute must read book!!

Thank you so much Savannah Carlisle for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of If I’d Have Known and for letting me be part of your ARC team!!

[Caroline|Page~Turners · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gigi Franklin is in the midst of planning the wedding of a lifetime. Her best friend’s getting married. The idea of keeping the wedding top secret is a must. Gigi and Austin work together, but Gigi is knee deep in building her own law practice and the wedding planning is taking a lot of her time.

Adding to her long list of to-do items she is running out of time trying to find the rightful heir to the local Salty Breeze B&B. Simon Ridley soon arrives in town and uproots the process. Gigi must find the truth about the B&B and pull off the perfect wedding at the same time. And then as if she doesn’t have enough to do, she finds an old journal that changes everything.

“If I’d Have Known,” an enchanting and heartwarming romance by author Savannah Carlisle, captivated my heart. Gigi, the protagonist, embodied the essence of a best friend, always ready to lend a helping hand and prioritize the needs of others, even at the expense of her own. Her circle of friends was a vibrant tapestry of support, and her ambition knew no bounds.

This delightful summer read transported me to a world of warmth and affection. Carlisle’s gift for creating unforgettable characters is truly remarkable. While this is the second installment in the Big Dune Island Series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. I wholeheartedly recommend this phenomenal book to anyone seeking a heartwarming and entertaining read.

[Julissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are back in this charming small-town (Big Dune Island) with the characters we met in the first book. It’s supposed to work as a standalone, but I think reading them in order will make for a better experience.

In this second book, we follow Gigi and Austin, as they work together to help plan their best friends’ wedding (the couple from book 1). Austin has always held a torch for Gigi and she was seemingly unaware, as she’s been focused on her career. But the romance plot is slowly simmering in the background, while many other subplots take focus. There are ongoing themes of found family, friendship, the Big Dune Island community members, fostering/adoption, and Gigi and Austin’s healing journeys. They are both navigating complicated family relationships with their parents.

I liked that it has a dual POV, because we got to see how much Austin admires Gigi. The writing style is descriptive, and really paints a picture of this little community. It’s a sweet, warm, and fluffy book with cozy vibes. I said this for book 1, but it’s also the case for this one: it gives Hallmark summer movie vibes. I received an audiobook copy, and I think the narrator really fits the FMC.

Thanks to Dreamscape Select / Harpeth Road Press & NetGalley for this advanced listener copy - all opinions are my own!
Pub date: 8/19/25

[Marylovesreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Review of *If I’d Have Known* by Savannah Carlisle (4 ⭐)**

*If I’d Have Known* is a heartwarming, small‑town slow‑burn romance that delivers cozy charm and emotional depth without a hint of spice. Gigi Franklin is juggling two major tasks—planning a surprise wedding for her best friend and helping her longtime friend Austin Beckett keep it under wraps. Alongside the wedding frenzy, she’s also trying to uncover the rightful heir to the Salty Breeze B\&B. A newcomer and an old journal surface, adding a delightful layer of mystery that keeps the story engaging.

What makes this novel truly stand out is the realistic and touching portrayal of parent‑child dynamics. Gigi’s journey toward resolving strained relationships brings real emotional weight to the story, elevating it above typical beach reads. The setting of Big Dune Island is a charming coastal backdrop that feels immersive and comforting—perfect for readers craving warmth and a slow‑burn connection.

In all, *If I’d Have Known* is a feel‑good romance filled with gentle chemistry, a touch of suspense, and genuine emotional undercurrents. A delightful pick for anyone looking for a sweet, cozy escape with heart.

Thanks to Harper Media and NetGalley for ARC in exchange for honest review.

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a delight to be back on Big Dune Island. After reading Callie and Jesse’s love story in The Summer of Starting Over, I was excited to see if Gigi, Callie’s best friend, would find her one true love.

As with the first book, this narrative is steeped in the heartwarming embrace of a small-town, island community. Gigi has her hands full, is planning Callie’s wedding, a task that must be kept secret due to Callie’s fame. She also finds herself on a quest to locate the heir to the Salty Breeze B&B, a journey that turns into a delightful mystery as she uncovers clues to rightful ownership.

Gigi’s childhood friend, Austin, a former baseball player, is determined to assist with the wedding plans. As they work together, their relationship evolves from a competitive friendship to something more, adding fun banter to the story.

Alongside the sweet romance, this story delves into the intricacies of wedding planning, estate planning, family drama, foster parenting, and baseball. What truly captivated me were the cherished friendships and the overwhelming sense of support, healing, and togetherness that this story radiates.

Thank you @uplitread and @Savvycarlisle for this #gifted book.

[Rutuja · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5🌟

This was such a beautiful, comforting read. I really enjoyed being on Big Dune Island, the setting itself feels warm, cozy, and full of heart. It’s the kind of place you want to escape to, and Savannah does such a lovely job making it feel alive and welcoming.

What truly stole my heart were the relationships. The friendship between Callie and Gigi, Jesse and Austin, and especially the four of them together was incredibly wholesome and comforting to read. Their bond added so much emotional depth to the story, and I found myself smiling at all their little moments of support, banter, and care. The side characters too were well written and added richness to the world without ever feeling like fillers.

My only small wish was that we got a little more time with Austin and Gigi as a couple. I would have loved to explore more of their shared past, their emotional connection, and the buildup of their chemistry. Their relationship was sweet, but I personally wanted just a bit more depth and development there.

Overall, this was a soft, feel-good, heartwarming story with lovely friendships, a charming setting, and a gentle romantic arc. It’s a comforting read that leaves you feeling warm inside, even if I wished for a little more when it came to the central romance.

[Hilary Delorey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is the 2nd book in the series, slow-burn and no third act breakup. Gigi is a smalltown lawyer, Austin is a retired baseball pro, radio-show host and little league coach. Together with the couple from book one they create a group that has grown up together. Our duo is actually tasked with planning the wedding of their best friends and high-school sweethearts. Its a book of filled with 15years of I should haves and longing. So if you've been in the friendzone maybe this book will give you the encouragement you need to step up and do the thing!!

Savannah did a great job of demonstrating the depth in the characters. Their struggles within their up bringing are something that so many would relate to. Their growth and determination to move past that generational trauma is inspiring. In doing so they really do create a power couple and better their community. Of course though its not a good book or close to believable if it was easy so there are some blunders and challenges along the way. Moments where I laughed and moments where I was like 'damn didn't see that coming'. Overall a very good read!!

[Anna Fowler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simba enthusiastically gives this book 4 paws! This is such a beautiful and touching clean cozy romance written by Savannah Carlisle. As she deals with such issues as: foster parenting, mother-daughter relationships, father-son relationships, adoption, and friendship: Carlisle brings a sweetness and warmth to her characters.

Readers are brought back to the delightful town of Big Dune Island. Characters Gigi and Austin have the important task of planning a secret wedding for childhood friends Callie and and Jesse. In planning this wedding and trying to save the local bed and breakfast from greedy developers, friends Austin and Callie decide they want more than friendship.

Carlisle is a gifted author, weaving a beautiful storyline that readers will gravitate towards. All of the characters are warm, and genuine and the dynamics and character growth is gradual, so as a reader I felt it was a natural part of the story.

A very well written book, perfect for all of us moms with kids back in school as we are dreaming of that special summer and all those memories!

Look for a review to come shortly at www.simbasbookreview.com.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready for a mental vacation in this sweet return to Big Dune Island. While it includes Callie and Jesse’s wedding it is the story of their best friends Gigi and Austin. Gigi and Austin are planning their best friend's secret wedding and become even closer as they help each other deal with family and community drama. I liked the way they were with each other and watching the relationship evolve made my heart happy. The town of Big Dune is the perfect setting for this cozy romance, as it is the type of place where everyone knows each other plus it is a beautiful beach setting that had my whole being relaxing into vacation mode. The chapters alternate between Gigi and Austin’s point of view so readers are able to see what each is thinking... This is book 2 in the series but it can be read as a standalone, of course once you are introduced to Big Dune Island you will want to read all of the books in the series. I highly recommend this to readers that enjoy sweet, cozy romances that leave them smiling.

Thanks to the author and UpLit for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Macy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this even more than the previous in the series. The characters are familiar, the setting wonderful, the story very enjoyable. It's a small town, friends to more romance. A close group of friends are gathered to help plan a “secret” wedding for their famous friend. Not an easy feat in a small town where everyone knows everything and those few who don’t, want to! The gossip tree is real! Gigi is doing most of the planning with some assistance from Austin. Mostly, she doesn’t want him to “mess it up!”. Their relationship and banter is fabulous and very amusing. Gigi’s mother is….a lot. She is disappointed that her daughter hasn’t married, and doesn't hesitate to share her disappointment and opinions with her on everything. That she is a smart, strong, practicing successful attorney who cares about her friends, family and town matters not. Gigi and Austin have been friends forever. Their story is wonderful and leads to the best place. The narration added to the listening experience.

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Reeca Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a baseball fan, I absolutely loved all the baseball talk. But, that is not all that is in this tale…it is full of family drama and y’all know I love a book with family drama.

Gigi Franklin is planning her best friend’s wedding, and long-time friend Austin Beckett is trying to help her keep the private event top secret. As Gigi and Austin work together, sparks begin to fly, but Gigi’s too busy building her law practice to make time for dating.

I loved Gigi and Austin. Both are so sweet and good for each other. Don’t you just love it when the characters work! These two have their own issues to deal with…both have interesting parents. This leads them to have more in common than they thought.

I also loved the hunt for the heir of the B&B. This created a good bit of mystery and this just added so much to this tale. I mean…a hidden journal!

Not only is this a good story, the narrator, Melie Williams, is wonderful!

Need a heartwarming story with a little bit of everything…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this from the publisher for a honest review.

[Simply Stevie Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I’d Have Known is a sweet, easy-to-read story set against the backdrop of a quaint beach town and honestly, the setting was my favorite part. The soft coastal atmosphere, ocean breezes, and small-town charm made it feel like the perfect light read for cozy weekends or vacations.

I enjoyed the characters and thought their dynamic felt warm and genuine. There’s a gentle emotional layer to the book nothing overly dramatic just enough heart to keep you invested. Some readers noted that the pacing is soft or slow in spots, and I’d agree this isn’t a high-angst story; it’s more about quiet moments, healing, and connection. Personally, I liked that it stayed calm and steady.

The romance (or emotional journey however you read it) felt sweet and believable. The simplicity actually worked well — the story doesn’t try to be more than it is, which makes it feel comforting.

Overall, this was a cute, uplifting read with strong beach-town vibes and an easy storytelling style. If you love gentle character journeys, small-town settings, and soft emotional plots, this is a great pick.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savannah Carlisle is back with another Big Dune Island story and I was so excited. In this story, we see the continuation of the first one however, this one focuses on Gigi and Austin more. After reading "The Summer of Starting Over", I had loved Gigi and wanted to learn more about her which this story did not disappoint. Along with their being romance in this storyline, there is also small town community, family and friends. Gigi and Austin, both rise above the pressures put on them to be independent thinkers and individuals. There arcs in doing such, was so empowering to watch unfold. I hope this isn't the end of the Big Dune Island story as I feel each have so much more to offer readers and I feel as if they are friends now. I listened to this story and the narration swept me right into the story. Thank you to Dreamscape and Harpeth Road for an advanced audio! All thoughts and opinions are my own!