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The Silver Lining
From a spectacular new voice in contemporary romance comes a delightfully heartwarming story that’s perfect for fans of Susan Mallery, Denise Hunter, and Jojo Moyes.
Farrah Macon is blindsided after being served divorce papers from a man she never intended to live without. Completely baffled, she leaves her art gallery manager position behind to take refuge with her parents. At the ripe age of twenty-nine, she’s living back home again, working as a nursing assistant, and helping her family at the local farmer’s market.
When everything seems to be falling down around her, Farrah runs into James Abbott—all six feet of the charming, curly-haired rancher—and can’t help but remember what they used to have.
But as sparks begin to fly between the two, Farrah grapples with a heart-wrenching secret that might tear them apart.
A touching romance that will remind you of the importance of family and make you believe in the powers of fate at work in our everyday lives.
Farrah Macon is blindsided after being served divorce papers from a man she never intended to live without. Completely baffled, she leaves her art gallery manager position behind to take refuge with her parents. At the ripe age of twenty-nine, she’s living back home again, working as a nursing assistant, and helping her family at the local farmer’s market.
When everything seems to be falling down around her, Farrah runs into James Abbott—all six feet of the charming, curly-haired rancher—and can’t help but remember what they used to have.
But as sparks begin to fly between the two, Farrah grapples with a heart-wrenching secret that might tear them apart.
A touching romance that will remind you of the importance of family and make you believe in the powers of fate at work in our everyday lives.
- GenresRomance
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2025
About the author
Audrey Lancho
6 books80 followersAudrey Lancho is the author of uplifting historical and contemporary clean romance and romcoms, including the Love and Lies at Mannerley Victorian romance series, and Someone Else’s Christmas. Audrey lives in North Carolina with her Spaniard husband and two young sons, is bilingual in Spanish, and enjoys church, time with friends, yoga, her kids' sporting events, and funny movies. She’s a freelance fiction editor, a job which she does from home while trying to remember to transfer the washed clothes to the dryer. When she's not writing or editing, you'll find her doing crochet or a jigsaw puzzle.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 5, 2025
Farrah, a successful art gallery manager, never anticipated receiving divorce papers. Her dream job was about to come to an end, leaving her with no choice but to move back home. Taking a job as a nursing assistant, she also helps her family at the local farmers market.
How did she end up here? Was her life about to take another unexpected turn? When she ran into her old flame and rancher, James Abbott, she couldn’t help but reminisce about their past. However, the past always holds secrets, and the price of them surfacing is never a good thing.
“The Silver Lining,” a heartwarming and delightful tale written by Audrey Lancho, is an amazing story of life’s second chances and bouncing back from unexpected events. It’s a story of hope and faith, reminding us that no matter what, everything will be okay. This phenomenal story broke my heart into tiny pieces but didn’t hesitate to put it back together. This masterpiece story reminds us that though life may have storms, we need to have hope that there is a silver lining.
I absolutely love Lancho’s writing style and consider her an auto-buy author. Her stories are like old and new friends. This story was wonderfully written and kept my attention from cover to cover. I couldn’t put it down. I highly recommend this book.
How did she end up here? Was her life about to take another unexpected turn? When she ran into her old flame and rancher, James Abbott, she couldn’t help but reminisce about their past. However, the past always holds secrets, and the price of them surfacing is never a good thing.
“The Silver Lining,” a heartwarming and delightful tale written by Audrey Lancho, is an amazing story of life’s second chances and bouncing back from unexpected events. It’s a story of hope and faith, reminding us that no matter what, everything will be okay. This phenomenal story broke my heart into tiny pieces but didn’t hesitate to put it back together. This masterpiece story reminds us that though life may have storms, we need to have hope that there is a silver lining.
I absolutely love Lancho’s writing style and consider her an auto-buy author. Her stories are like old and new friends. This story was wonderfully written and kept my attention from cover to cover. I couldn’t put it down. I highly recommend this book.
May 6, 2025
This book was delightful from beginning to end! It’s a sweet, clean romance that completely drew me in and kept me guessing what would happen next. Just when I thought The surprises in the plot kept the story fresh and engaging.
Farrah and Abbott were such relatable, well-developed characters—I was invested in their journey. Their emotional growth and connection is heartfelt.. The small-town setting was the perfect cozy backdrop, full of charm, and it added so much to the story’s atmosphere.
If you're looking for a romance with heart, depth, and a few unexpected twists, this book is a must-read. I highly recommend it!
Farrah and Abbott were such relatable, well-developed characters—I was invested in their journey. Their emotional growth and connection is heartfelt.. The small-town setting was the perfect cozy backdrop, full of charm, and it added so much to the story’s atmosphere.
If you're looking for a romance with heart, depth, and a few unexpected twists, this book is a must-read. I highly recommend it!
May 1, 2025
Thank you for the ARC for my honest early review. WOW! This is such a wonderfully written emotional story about the journey Farrah takes with her husband who finds out he has Alzheimer’s. And what a journey it is! Farrah moves back home after her divorce carrying a secret that she doesn’t want to share with her hometown people. As her journey continues, she does her best to carry on and straighten out her life. You must put this book on your list to read. It grabs you in from the beginning and keeps you wanting more. This is my first book by this author but it surely will not be my last. It’s one of the best books I’ve read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2025
Farrah Macon’s life took an unexpected turn in her marriage, which caused her divorce. She quits her job and heads back to her hometown to live with her parents to regroup. She stays busy by helping her family with selling canned goods at the farmer’s market and is a CNA at a local nursing home. Farrah runs into her high school sweetheart. Will Farrah be tempted to give him another chance? Can Farrah figure out her new normal?
A heartfelt and entertaining read! This author perfectly captures the small town feel and all the different personalities that exist! This story has an unexpected turn, which keeps you wanting to know more. I loved how the story alternated from Farrah’s past to the present day. A perfect book to read by the pool or bring on your next vacation. Also, a great book club book as it will lead to many great discussions.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A heartfelt and entertaining read! This author perfectly captures the small town feel and all the different personalities that exist! This story has an unexpected turn, which keeps you wanting to know more. I loved how the story alternated from Farrah’s past to the present day. A perfect book to read by the pool or bring on your next vacation. Also, a great book club book as it will lead to many great discussions.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 29, 2025
Wow Just Wow. The Silver Lining by Audrey Lancho is one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. This is the first book I’ve read by the author and I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The Silver Lining is told from Farrah’s perspective and alternates from the present day to the past in alternating chapters. Farrah Macon returns to her small hometown to live with her parents after her husband divorces her. She busies herself helping her family selling canned goods at the farmers market and as a CNA at a local nursing home. When Farrah runs into James Abbott, her high school sweetheart, she’s tempted to give him a second chance. But Farrah is struggling with a heart wrenching secret that could tear them apart.
This book absolutely broke my heart while slowly putting it back together in such a beautiful way. I did not see the twist coming! The authors captures this small town beautifully and reminds me of my years living in NC. Each character was wonderful in their own way well except for Jincy who I’d love to have a word with.
A keeper of a book that will long stay with me. A heartfelt book that I could not put down. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The Silver Lining is told from Farrah’s perspective and alternates from the present day to the past in alternating chapters. Farrah Macon returns to her small hometown to live with her parents after her husband divorces her. She busies herself helping her family selling canned goods at the farmers market and as a CNA at a local nursing home. When Farrah runs into James Abbott, her high school sweetheart, she’s tempted to give him a second chance. But Farrah is struggling with a heart wrenching secret that could tear them apart.
This book absolutely broke my heart while slowly putting it back together in such a beautiful way. I did not see the twist coming! The authors captures this small town beautifully and reminds me of my years living in NC. Each character was wonderful in their own way well except for Jincy who I’d love to have a word with.
A keeper of a book that will long stay with me. A heartfelt book that I could not put down. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 7, 2025
Audrey Lancho has done it again! The Silver Lining is my second read from her, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that her books just keep getting better. I had the honor of receiving an ARC from Audrey, and honestly, I devoured it!
The story follows Farrah Macon, a 29-year-old woman who, after an unexpected divorce, returns to her hometown of Whitetail Ridge. There, she reconnects with her high school flame, James Abbott, while grappling with a personal secret that could impact their rekindled relationship.
One thing I absolutely adore about Audrey’s writing is her prose—there’s a softness and authenticity to it that makes you feel like you’re living in the story instead of just reading it. She knows how to write romance that feels natural and seamless—never over-the-top or cringy, and definitely never boring. There’s always the perfect blend of slow-burn tension, swoony moments, and just enough drama to keep you hooked.
Farrah and James’s story is one of reconnection, growth, and second chances, set against the backdrop of a charming small town. What made it extra special for me was how grounded it felt—Farrah is navigating heartbreak and change, but the story never falls into clichés. It’s hopeful, heartfelt, and full of the kind of emotions that sneak up on you.
Something that stood out to me—and many readers—is how Audrey gives you characters with real baggage, but never makes their journey feel heavy. She writes healing in such a subtle, beautiful way. If you’ve read The Breakup Tour or Something Good, you’ll recognize that same emotional intelligence in her storytelling here.
Audrey Lancho deserves more spotlight in the romance world. If you love meaningful, beautifully written love stories with relatable characters, you need her books on your radar.
Tropes:
* Second chance romance
* Small town setting
* Divorce recovery
* Found family
* High school sweethearts
* Homecoming / return to roots
* He falls first
* Single POV
The story follows Farrah Macon, a 29-year-old woman who, after an unexpected divorce, returns to her hometown of Whitetail Ridge. There, she reconnects with her high school flame, James Abbott, while grappling with a personal secret that could impact their rekindled relationship.
One thing I absolutely adore about Audrey’s writing is her prose—there’s a softness and authenticity to it that makes you feel like you’re living in the story instead of just reading it. She knows how to write romance that feels natural and seamless—never over-the-top or cringy, and definitely never boring. There’s always the perfect blend of slow-burn tension, swoony moments, and just enough drama to keep you hooked.
Farrah and James’s story is one of reconnection, growth, and second chances, set against the backdrop of a charming small town. What made it extra special for me was how grounded it felt—Farrah is navigating heartbreak and change, but the story never falls into clichés. It’s hopeful, heartfelt, and full of the kind of emotions that sneak up on you.
Something that stood out to me—and many readers—is how Audrey gives you characters with real baggage, but never makes their journey feel heavy. She writes healing in such a subtle, beautiful way. If you’ve read The Breakup Tour or Something Good, you’ll recognize that same emotional intelligence in her storytelling here.
Audrey Lancho deserves more spotlight in the romance world. If you love meaningful, beautifully written love stories with relatable characters, you need her books on your radar.
Tropes:
* Second chance romance
* Small town setting
* Divorce recovery
* Found family
* High school sweethearts
* Homecoming / return to roots
* He falls first
* Single POV
May 15, 2025
READ MY FULL REVIEW ON BOOKNERDIA.COM--https://www.booknerdia.com/post/revie...
Readers of sweet romance novels have come to expect the genre to unfold like a Hallmark movie--cheesy tropes and formulaic plots following by happy endings.
The Silver Lining by Audrey Lancho breaks the mold.
Lancho's story is original, mysterious, compelling, bittersweet, and heartfelt. It conveys a message of hope--even life's greatest storms contain silver linings, if you summon the courage to look for them.
The Silver Lining is far more complex than the average sweet romance because emotion runs deep and things get messy. The novel will break your heart a little before it puts the pieces back together for a deliciously satisfying ending.
Readers of sweet romance novels have come to expect the genre to unfold like a Hallmark movie--cheesy tropes and formulaic plots following by happy endings.
The Silver Lining by Audrey Lancho breaks the mold.
Lancho's story is original, mysterious, compelling, bittersweet, and heartfelt. It conveys a message of hope--even life's greatest storms contain silver linings, if you summon the courage to look for them.
The Silver Lining is far more complex than the average sweet romance because emotion runs deep and things get messy. The novel will break your heart a little before it puts the pieces back together for a deliciously satisfying ending.
May 6, 2025
I have read more romance books in just the last year than I can even count or remember; Audrey’s book will be one I won’t soon forget in comparison!
The town of Whitetail Ridge could be a character within itself through her descriptive writing. She truly makes the town and townspeople come alive. Her achievement in writing a story that plays like a movie in your mind is incredible.
I could absolutely not put this book down! Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, no you don’t!
Aside from the incredible second chance romance taking place, Farrah’s journey to find herself is compelling and relatable. She is a character you can truly see yourself in.
This book is for fiction lovers, romance and 2nd chance romance lovers, and for those looking for something with twists and turns. Grab some tissues and pick up this absolute must read for this summer!
The town of Whitetail Ridge could be a character within itself through her descriptive writing. She truly makes the town and townspeople come alive. Her achievement in writing a story that plays like a movie in your mind is incredible.
I could absolutely not put this book down! Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, no you don’t!
Aside from the incredible second chance romance taking place, Farrah’s journey to find herself is compelling and relatable. She is a character you can truly see yourself in.
This book is for fiction lovers, romance and 2nd chance romance lovers, and for those looking for something with twists and turns. Grab some tissues and pick up this absolute must read for this summer!
July 20, 2025
This book, SILVER LINING, by Audrey S. Lancho is amazing!! Set here in the triad region of NC with local restaurants & locales! There was a touch of mystery, a bit of relationship drama that had me turning pages & staying up late to read and oh, the second chances!! This book has it all!! A for sure five-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for me. Highly recommend you grab this book now!!
June 17, 2025
⭐️2.75
The twist of this book was a redeeming quality but the rest of the book was too corny for me. The “villain” was unnecessary to me and ruined the story a little bit.
The twist of this book was a redeeming quality but the rest of the book was too corny for me. The “villain” was unnecessary to me and ruined the story a little bit.
July 23, 2025
Lovely story.
May 14, 2025
I cried too many tears while reading this book.
Listen, I loved getting to hear about Abbott and Farrah and watching their relationship grow but I needed to know what happened to Farrah and Connor and then when I found out it was game over for me. Ms. Audrey, how could you make Farrah and I go through all of that?
Anyways, I'll definitely be reading another Audrey Lancho book in the future. If you want a small town, second chance romance that will hit you in the feels I would 100% recommend this book.
Listen, I loved getting to hear about Abbott and Farrah and watching their relationship grow but I needed to know what happened to Farrah and Connor and then when I found out it was game over for me. Ms. Audrey, how could you make Farrah and I go through all of that?
Anyways, I'll definitely be reading another Audrey Lancho book in the future. If you want a small town, second chance romance that will hit you in the feels I would 100% recommend this book.
June 13, 2025
I couldn’t put it down!! I so enjoyed the story of Farrah—her love, loss, dreams, and drama. I love an atypical plot line, and Audrey delivers in the most perfect way! I was hooked from beginning to end!
May 6, 2025
Farrah Macon is completely floored when she receives divorce papers that she didn't see coming. Heartbroken and distraught do not even begin to describe her state of mind. She packs up and moves back home to her parents' home and goes to work as a CNA at a local memory care facility. She has gone from the snazzy world of art to cleaning up after those who cannot help themselves.
Farrah does not count on encountering her first love, James Abbott, when she comes back to town. All of those old feelings rush back in, but she is still in despair over her divorce. She can't go there yet. When James saves the day with a project Farrah is working on, this puts them in close proximity to one another. However, the walls are still up and fully erected.
Most of this book was heartwarming, but there were some parts that completely broke my heart. The story is frequently told from Farrah's perspective and goes from past to present so you can fully understand her story and how she has arrived where she is today.
This book was filled with love between two friends and a community who cares about their neighbors. It was definitely a feel good romance. The author did have to throw in a mean girl to make the story a little more interesting. After I wiped my tears away, I closed this book with a satisfied smile. This book touched me in ways that I cannot even put into words. These characters were so real that I felt their emotions. Using tissues is a must, but it is definitely worth it because this book is a real winner.
Thank you to Harpeth Road for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Farrah does not count on encountering her first love, James Abbott, when she comes back to town. All of those old feelings rush back in, but she is still in despair over her divorce. She can't go there yet. When James saves the day with a project Farrah is working on, this puts them in close proximity to one another. However, the walls are still up and fully erected.
Most of this book was heartwarming, but there were some parts that completely broke my heart. The story is frequently told from Farrah's perspective and goes from past to present so you can fully understand her story and how she has arrived where she is today.
This book was filled with love between two friends and a community who cares about their neighbors. It was definitely a feel good romance. The author did have to throw in a mean girl to make the story a little more interesting. After I wiped my tears away, I closed this book with a satisfied smile. This book touched me in ways that I cannot even put into words. These characters were so real that I felt their emotions. Using tissues is a must, but it is definitely worth it because this book is a real winner.
Thank you to Harpeth Road for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2025
Farrah Macon has returned home to her small town after a divorce that she didn't want. She runs into James Abbott, a guy from a past relationship, and things start to get interesting between them again. But something is holding Farrah back, and she's keeping it a secret from James.
This author was new to me. I really liked this book. It is a second chance romance, but there is more to the story than just that romance. This is one of those books in which the author deals out little bits of critical information throughout the story. You know something more is going on, yet you have to keep reading to figure out what it is. The main characters were very likeable and the author throws in one character that you just have to love to hate. It was entertaining and engaging. I'll definitely read more by this author.
Thanks to Harpeth Road Press for the copy. All thoughts are my own.
This author was new to me. I really liked this book. It is a second chance romance, but there is more to the story than just that romance. This is one of those books in which the author deals out little bits of critical information throughout the story. You know something more is going on, yet you have to keep reading to figure out what it is. The main characters were very likeable and the author throws in one character that you just have to love to hate. It was entertaining and engaging. I'll definitely read more by this author.
Thanks to Harpeth Road Press for the copy. All thoughts are my own.
August 1, 2025
I don't even want to finish this, but I will. MFC (main female character) obsessed with getting pregnant after her husband said before they got hastily and stupidly married that he DIDN'T WANT CHILDREN. Also, why do we have to be obsessed with pregnancy in books. Can't we have strong females without the desire to pro-create?? Ugh and ick. Now she is weak to me.
The first part was written between 49-66% finished.
Why make Farrah hold out this information until the very end. At about 70% a big whopper comes up that the man she is watching is her ex husband.
Why is she not up front with Abbott like at all. She finally opens up but come on!!
The first part was written between 49-66% finished.
Why make Farrah hold out this information until the very end. At about 70% a big whopper comes up that the man she is watching is her ex husband.
Why is she not up front with Abbott like at all. She finally opens up but come on!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2025
Audrey Lancho has written a gem with The Silver Lining! The alternating past and present narration weaves a heartwarming story with the charming twists of small-town life. It’s a story that profoundly tugs at your heart while simultaneously soothing your soul. The Silver Lining is a beautifully written, engaging, and greatly enjoyable story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are expressed are my own.
September 9, 2025
Not your typical romance novel, this book brought me to tears before building me back up. It was a bit of a slow opening for me, so I wasn't sure if I should keep going, but I'm so glad I did.
When you get to THAT chapter and all the pieces fall into place? My jaw dropped.
Sweet. Small-town. Heartbreaking. Swoony.
If you want a Hallmark-style romance blended with a traditional Hallmark-style drama, this is the book for you.
Rated PG.
When you get to THAT chapter and all the pieces fall into place? My jaw dropped.
Sweet. Small-town. Heartbreaking. Swoony.
If you want a Hallmark-style romance blended with a traditional Hallmark-style drama, this is the book for you.
Rated PG.
May 6, 2025
This book was super sweet with a surprising depth. It was more than your average small-town romance, and I loved that it explored grief, lasting love, and the unexpected twists that life hands us. It's swoony, sweet, and has an interesting twist! Plus, I love Lancho's writing and her clear, confident voice.
May 20, 2025
Thank you Harpeth Road press for this ARC!
A charming romance story set in a picturesque small town with all of the southern vibes you could ask for. It’s a sweet romance, with some emotional moments too and plenty of unexpected twists and turns. Quick read with short chapters. I really enjoyed it!
A charming romance story set in a picturesque small town with all of the southern vibes you could ask for. It’s a sweet romance, with some emotional moments too and plenty of unexpected twists and turns. Quick read with short chapters. I really enjoyed it!
May 27, 2025
So Good!!!
I usually have a pretty good idea how a book is going to end, but this one surprised me! This deals with an issue many of us have faced, or will, and looks at another side of it - Alzheimer's. How does a person deal with the decisions a patient had made???
I usually have a pretty good idea how a book is going to end, but this one surprised me! This deals with an issue many of us have faced, or will, and looks at another side of it - Alzheimer's. How does a person deal with the decisions a patient had made???
May 13, 2025
What a sweet, summer read, perfect for flight or sunny summer day. I recommend this one to sweet romance lovers, who don't mind shedding a few tears.
June 16, 2025
2.3/5 ⭐️
The plot lacked depth, the villain in the story was a very weak character and there were many parts of the story that were just hard to believe.
The plot lacked depth, the villain in the story was a very weak character and there were many parts of the story that were just hard to believe.
June 13, 2025
This was such a fun, easy read! I loved that we had adult characters that are relatable, and a true depiction of grief and the emotional and mental load it takes to walk through it. I found myself feeling for both the FMC in her grief about the end of her marriage, and also her confusion and hesitancy to connect with an old love now that she's back in her home town.
This book reads like a deeper, more meaningful Hallmark romance and I loved it!
This book reads like a deeper, more meaningful Hallmark romance and I loved it!
December 29, 2025
Small-town memories, farmer's markets, and a plot with a twist!
Did I mention this one has a twist? Well, it does, and if you're like me, it'll hit you with a wham.
Farrah Macon returns home after her husband divorces her. Meanwhile, there's the former teenage love-interest, Abbott, that she left behind, but let's just say there's a secret sort of omnisciently hovering around. The story is told from Farrah's perspective and alternates from the present day in some chapters with the past in other chapters. The "past" chapters slowly build up until the whole story is revealed. Nicely done.
The author does a great job of giving each character a distinct personality. I'll mention one in particular--Jincey. I wanted to reach into the book and slap her and chew her out, but I think we've all known our small-town divas who think they should be queen bee at every event.
I would say "The Silver Lining" is comparable to a Hallmark movie, but that would be a lie; it's actually BETTER than a Hallmark movie. You can't go wrong reading this one!
Did I mention this one has a twist? Well, it does, and if you're like me, it'll hit you with a wham.
Farrah Macon returns home after her husband divorces her. Meanwhile, there's the former teenage love-interest, Abbott, that she left behind, but let's just say there's a secret sort of omnisciently hovering around. The story is told from Farrah's perspective and alternates from the present day in some chapters with the past in other chapters. The "past" chapters slowly build up until the whole story is revealed. Nicely done.
The author does a great job of giving each character a distinct personality. I'll mention one in particular--Jincey. I wanted to reach into the book and slap her and chew her out, but I think we've all known our small-town divas who think they should be queen bee at every event.
I would say "The Silver Lining" is comparable to a Hallmark movie, but that would be a lie; it's actually BETTER than a Hallmark movie. You can't go wrong reading this one!
September 29, 2025
2.5/5 ⭐️
I read this book as part of a book club pick. This book has potential and reads easy like a beach read, but was not a particularly enjoyable book for me. I found myself cringing a lot at the cheesy writing, and the details in the book were all over the place. Sometimes too much detail was given and at other points I felt not enough was given.
I read this book as part of a book club pick. This book has potential and reads easy like a beach read, but was not a particularly enjoyable book for me. I found myself cringing a lot at the cheesy writing, and the details in the book were all over the place. Sometimes too much detail was given and at other points I felt not enough was given.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews