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Aron Falls #1
When We Were More
Sometimes the heart doesn't play by the rules…
There’s a fine line between confidence and cockiness.
Henry Aron, the frustratingly attractive contractor renovating my grandmother’s farmhouse, has been walking it since the day we met.
He’s a smart aleck with a crooked smile and a habit of tossing out double-meaning remarks—usually at my expense. I’m not amused.
After clawing my way out of a toxic marriage, I’ve got no time for another man who thinks he knows better.
But I need him.
This renovation is the last promise I made to my grandmother—the woman who loved me unconditionally.
And the more time I spend with Henry, the more I see beyond the sarcasm.
He’s kind. Steady. A devoted single dad.
And, it turns out, just as emotionally guarded as I am.
So, we call a truce and agree to be friends.
The problem is the chemistry between us doesn't feel like friendship.
But one kiss to get it out of our systems turns into one night, and it’s not enough.
Suddenly we’re adding many benefits and a few rules:
➤ Monogamous.
➤ No feelings.
➤ Definitely no falling in love.
Easy enough… until it isn’t.
Because every night together brings us closer.
Every look, every touch, chips away at the walls we swore would protect us.
This was supposed to be simple.
No strings. No mess.
But if we don’t rewrite the rules, we could lose the one thing that finally feels real.
When We Were More is the first book in the Aron Falls small-town romance series: smart, strong heroines with heart and sexy, swoon worthy heroes.
There’s a fine line between confidence and cockiness.
Henry Aron, the frustratingly attractive contractor renovating my grandmother’s farmhouse, has been walking it since the day we met.
He’s a smart aleck with a crooked smile and a habit of tossing out double-meaning remarks—usually at my expense. I’m not amused.
After clawing my way out of a toxic marriage, I’ve got no time for another man who thinks he knows better.
But I need him.
This renovation is the last promise I made to my grandmother—the woman who loved me unconditionally.
And the more time I spend with Henry, the more I see beyond the sarcasm.
He’s kind. Steady. A devoted single dad.
And, it turns out, just as emotionally guarded as I am.
So, we call a truce and agree to be friends.
The problem is the chemistry between us doesn't feel like friendship.
But one kiss to get it out of our systems turns into one night, and it’s not enough.
Suddenly we’re adding many benefits and a few rules:
➤ Monogamous.
➤ No feelings.
➤ Definitely no falling in love.
Easy enough… until it isn’t.
Because every night together brings us closer.
Every look, every touch, chips away at the walls we swore would protect us.
This was supposed to be simple.
No strings. No mess.
But if we don’t rewrite the rules, we could lose the one thing that finally feels real.
When We Were More is the first book in the Aron Falls small-town romance series: smart, strong heroines with heart and sexy, swoon worthy heroes.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2025
About the author
Finley Daniels
11 books69 followersFinley Daniels writes romances that are heartfelt, healing, and filled with happy endings. Don’t be surprised if you laugh, cry, then laugh again all in the same book. Finley probably did all of those while writing it…
Finley is a voracious reader. She often loses herself (and sleep) for hours at a time into the world of whatever book she is reading… especially if she’s lucky enough to be relaxing somewhere on a warm beach near the ocean.
She loves gardening, being out in nature, and her fur babies. Her husband isn't so bad, either. She’s also obsessed with watching the owls that live in a nesting box in her back yard. That means if you follow her newsletter, you’ll undoubtedly see lots of pics featuring flowers, pups, and owls!
Finley lives in the Northeastern United States.
Stay up to date on Finley’s latest news on her website, Facebook, or Instagram.
Finley is a voracious reader. She often loses herself (and sleep) for hours at a time into the world of whatever book she is reading… especially if she’s lucky enough to be relaxing somewhere on a warm beach near the ocean.
She loves gardening, being out in nature, and her fur babies. Her husband isn't so bad, either. She’s also obsessed with watching the owls that live in a nesting box in her back yard. That means if you follow her newsletter, you’ll undoubtedly see lots of pics featuring flowers, pups, and owls!
Finley lives in the Northeastern United States.
Stay up to date on Finley’s latest news on her website, Facebook, or Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
May 5, 2026
So my main issue is the FMC. She was rude the MMC because she thought he was a worker. Karen behaviour tbh. Then when she did find out he was one of the owners of the company she said something along the lines that if she had known or that she was a total bitch to him all the times they’ve interacted. I didn’t like that author would write something like that because you don’t treat people differently because of their status. Henry was cool though. Some issues obviously. But the FMC spoilt it for me.
August 12, 2025
I have been a fan of Finley’s work since the day I discovered her first book Come Back To Me and I am so lucky to be able to getting an ARC of her first book in her new series. While I won’t give any spoilers for this book, I will say that I fell in love with Tillie & Henry from the start and they are at the top of my favourite characters from all her books list. To me, Finley has such a way of writing amazing, easy to read books that make you feel like you want to live in a town like Aron Falls with how the community supports each other through every thing and I can’t wait to see the world she creates for our 1st favourite uncle, Uncle Harry 🤭
June 25, 2026
It was a sweet, small town romance with some spice.
(Possible spoilers ahead)
Safe with no cheating by MCs
No virgins and no manho
Mild OW drama
Both MCs have some baggage caused by an ex.
Background:
The heroine, Tilly, is married at the start to an emotionally abusive cheater. He’s older and used to be a professor at her college. She’s now been married to him for 5 years and he has successfully isolated her from everyone. He always expects her to be okay with his mistress. Thankfully, Tilly’s grandma helps her get out of that situation. I think if Tilly didn’t have her grandma, she would have stayed. 😩
The hero, Henry, is the oldest of 4 brothers. He has 2 girls and his ex didn’t hang around. The oldest girl is not his biological daughter (was his ex’s kid) but he adopted her before the youngest was born. He didn’t love his ex. She signed away her rights and left not long after the baby was born.
He’s the CEO of their construction company. All the brothers have a book in this series. They are all billionaires.
I wouldn’t call Henry a manho, but he does sometimes have a FWB. I think the last time he had smex was 8 months before this book starts.
———-
When chapter 1 starts, Tilly has been divorced from her ex for 5 years. Her grandma died about 4 months earlier.
Tilly is 30 and Henry is 35
Let’s just say…Tilly is BITTER, non trusting, and angry. She’s getting renos done on her house, and Henry’s company is doing them. They left trash everywhere, so Tilly calls to complain. Henry shows up later and Tilly is a mega bytch for no reason. Henry likes her. Why? 🤷♀️🤷♀️
Tilly’s self esteem is low. She’s “curvy”
Most of the book is about these two getting over their issues. Sometimes Tilly was too much. She over thought everything.
I could not understand why she got mad at Henry when she found out he owned the company. Sometimes it felt like she was mad to be mad.
Henry falls first. Tilly keeps trying to end things with him. He keeps fighting for her. It was exhausting at times.
There’s a tiny bit of OW drama. One of Henry’s FWB causes some issues. There’s a big family party and Henry takes the girls to lay them down. He told Tilly he’d be right back. 45 minutes later he still hasn’t shown up. Tilly goes to look for him and she sees/hears the OW leave the room straighten her dress and looking smug. Henry follows behind and his hair is all messed up and his clothes skewed. Naturally, Tilly got out of there fast because OW had also been hanging on Henry all night.
The actual truth was he fell asleep with his kids. When he got up OW was waiting. 😬 Supposedly, she just wanted the name of his plumber.
So Tilly accepts that….then she finds out that OW was his previous FWB. Tilly was ticked that he withheld that info.
Then there’s another small event where the same OW runs up on him and later says some smack to Tilly.
Personally, Henry was wrong for NOT laying boundaries with OW. 🤷♀️
A small OM drama but it’s mostly harmless. Tilly was never interested.
She does finally get out of her head around 85%
HEA with them moving in together and months later he proposes. She said yes. The girls call her mama (I did like Tilly’s relationship with the girls. It was sweet)
I liked the relationship the brothers have. I wasn’t a huge fan of Tilly, but I’m interested to see the other brothers and their heroines. I loved Henry’s oldest daughter. I think she was 5.
I will probably read at least the next one.
(Possible spoilers ahead)
Safe with no cheating by MCs
No virgins and no manho
Mild OW drama
Both MCs have some baggage caused by an ex.
Background:
The heroine, Tilly, is married at the start to an emotionally abusive cheater. He’s older and used to be a professor at her college. She’s now been married to him for 5 years and he has successfully isolated her from everyone. He always expects her to be okay with his mistress. Thankfully, Tilly’s grandma helps her get out of that situation. I think if Tilly didn’t have her grandma, she would have stayed. 😩
The hero, Henry, is the oldest of 4 brothers. He has 2 girls and his ex didn’t hang around. The oldest girl is not his biological daughter (was his ex’s kid) but he adopted her before the youngest was born. He didn’t love his ex. She signed away her rights and left not long after the baby was born.
He’s the CEO of their construction company. All the brothers have a book in this series. They are all billionaires.
I wouldn’t call Henry a manho, but he does sometimes have a FWB. I think the last time he had smex was 8 months before this book starts.
———-
When chapter 1 starts, Tilly has been divorced from her ex for 5 years. Her grandma died about 4 months earlier.
Tilly is 30 and Henry is 35
Let’s just say…Tilly is BITTER, non trusting, and angry. She’s getting renos done on her house, and Henry’s company is doing them. They left trash everywhere, so Tilly calls to complain. Henry shows up later and Tilly is a mega bytch for no reason. Henry likes her. Why? 🤷♀️🤷♀️
Tilly’s self esteem is low. She’s “curvy”
Most of the book is about these two getting over their issues. Sometimes Tilly was too much. She over thought everything.
I could not understand why she got mad at Henry when she found out he owned the company. Sometimes it felt like she was mad to be mad.
Henry falls first. Tilly keeps trying to end things with him. He keeps fighting for her. It was exhausting at times.
There’s a tiny bit of OW drama. One of Henry’s FWB causes some issues. There’s a big family party and Henry takes the girls to lay them down. He told Tilly he’d be right back. 45 minutes later he still hasn’t shown up. Tilly goes to look for him and she sees/hears the OW leave the room straighten her dress and looking smug. Henry follows behind and his hair is all messed up and his clothes skewed. Naturally, Tilly got out of there fast because OW had also been hanging on Henry all night.
The actual truth was he fell asleep with his kids. When he got up OW was waiting. 😬 Supposedly, she just wanted the name of his plumber.
So Tilly accepts that….then she finds out that OW was his previous FWB. Tilly was ticked that he withheld that info.
Then there’s another small event where the same OW runs up on him and later says some smack to Tilly.
Personally, Henry was wrong for NOT laying boundaries with OW. 🤷♀️
A small OM drama but it’s mostly harmless. Tilly was never interested.
She does finally get out of her head around 85%
HEA with them moving in together and months later he proposes. She said yes. The girls call her mama (I did like Tilly’s relationship with the girls. It was sweet)
I liked the relationship the brothers have. I wasn’t a huge fan of Tilly, but I’m interested to see the other brothers and their heroines. I loved Henry’s oldest daughter. I think she was 5.
I will probably read at least the next one.
October 24, 2025
Do you know what I love most when reading a book? Is when it makes me smile.
I loved reading Matilda’s and Henry’s story. Some books have fun moments that make you laugh, but I just caught myself smiling so much. Just one of those moments when you are so engrossed in reading you don’t realise you have a huge grin on your face! The banter and push and pull between Matilda and Henry was as heartfelt and romantic, as it was entertaining. You could feel them both simmering, but only in a good way. There was a bit of angst which I love to read, but it felt very natural to their history and story line. They made a family and I believed every word.
I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
I loved reading Matilda’s and Henry’s story. Some books have fun moments that make you laugh, but I just caught myself smiling so much. Just one of those moments when you are so engrossed in reading you don’t realise you have a huge grin on your face! The banter and push and pull between Matilda and Henry was as heartfelt and romantic, as it was entertaining. You could feel them both simmering, but only in a good way. There was a bit of angst which I love to read, but it felt very natural to their history and story line. They made a family and I believed every word.
I can’t wait for the next one in the series.
October 1, 2025
dnf 53%
It's a slow burn with no fire, no action and no life. The side characters are quirky and fun, though. I can see how some would like it, it just isn't for me.
It's a slow burn with no fire, no action and no life. The side characters are quirky and fun, though. I can see how some would like it, it just isn't for me.
April 22, 2026
⭐.5 stars (I save 1 stars for DNF and I came SO CLOSE. I was able to make it by heavily skimming the last 10%)
🌶️.5 spice - first kiss at 56%, first spice scene at 57%. This is basically a 2 open book scene kind of book. The second scene was well after 90%!
Has there ever been a FMC I hated more? She was denying their relationship even at 91%!! I get it, she's grieving but through the whole book?? Always with the tears falling. No confidence whatsoever. Always second guessing herself. Frankly, I don't know why the MMC stayed with her.
🌶️.5 spice - first kiss at 56%, first spice scene at 57%. This is basically a 2 open book scene kind of book. The second scene was well after 90%!
Has there ever been a FMC I hated more? She was denying their relationship even at 91%!! I get it, she's grieving but through the whole book?? Always with the tears falling. No confidence whatsoever. Always second guessing herself. Frankly, I don't know why the MMC stayed with her.
April 14, 2026
Boring
I got to 80% then I stopped caring. Matilda is so freaking annoying the book is almost finished and still no growth? No thanks. The 2 stars is for the single dad and hood cute kids.
I got to 80% then I stopped caring. Matilda is so freaking annoying the book is almost finished and still no growth? No thanks. The 2 stars is for the single dad and hood cute kids.
June 28, 2026
An emotional, heartwarming romance that proves sometimes the best love stories begin after life falls apart.
🏡 Tropes
👨👧 Single Dad
❤️ Friends with Benefits
🩹 Healing from Past Trauma
😤 Grumpy MMC
🌸 Damaged FMC
🐢 Slow Burn
😂 Top-tier banter (especially from the five-year-old!)
⸻
Matilda escapes an abusive marriage with the help of her grandmother, and five years later she’s finally beginning to rebuild her life. When she hires Henry’s renovation company to restore her grandmother’s home, the chemistry between them is impossible to ignore.
Neither of them believes they’re ready for something real, so a friends with benefits arrangement feels safe… until feelings start getting involved.
Henry is the ultimate grumpy single dad with the softest heart hidden beneath the surface, while Matilda’s journey toward reclaiming herself is beautiful, emotional, and incredibly satisfying to watch. Their slow-burn romance feels earned every step of the way.
And can we talk about the side characters? Ruthie and Grandma absolutely steal scenes, and Henry’s five-year-old delivers some of the funniest one-liners in the entire book.
“God, what did I ever do to deserve you?”
“Nothing. Just like I didn’t do anything to deserve you. I never could. Love just is. It doesn’t cost anything or keep score.”
— Matilda & Henry ❤️
And this line had me laughing:
“If he already has a business, he might be able to give you some tips. Just the tips.” 😂
If you love romances with emotionally wounded characters, grumpy heroes who become complete softies, heartfelt healing journeys, laugh-out-loud family moments, and a slow burn that’s worth every page, When We Were More deserves a spot on your TBR.
🏡 Tropes
👨👧 Single Dad
❤️ Friends with Benefits
🩹 Healing from Past Trauma
😤 Grumpy MMC
🌸 Damaged FMC
🐢 Slow Burn
😂 Top-tier banter (especially from the five-year-old!)
⸻
Matilda escapes an abusive marriage with the help of her grandmother, and five years later she’s finally beginning to rebuild her life. When she hires Henry’s renovation company to restore her grandmother’s home, the chemistry between them is impossible to ignore.
Neither of them believes they’re ready for something real, so a friends with benefits arrangement feels safe… until feelings start getting involved.
Henry is the ultimate grumpy single dad with the softest heart hidden beneath the surface, while Matilda’s journey toward reclaiming herself is beautiful, emotional, and incredibly satisfying to watch. Their slow-burn romance feels earned every step of the way.
And can we talk about the side characters? Ruthie and Grandma absolutely steal scenes, and Henry’s five-year-old delivers some of the funniest one-liners in the entire book.
“God, what did I ever do to deserve you?”
“Nothing. Just like I didn’t do anything to deserve you. I never could. Love just is. It doesn’t cost anything or keep score.”
— Matilda & Henry ❤️
And this line had me laughing:
“If he already has a business, he might be able to give you some tips. Just the tips.” 😂
If you love romances with emotionally wounded characters, grumpy heroes who become complete softies, heartfelt healing journeys, laugh-out-loud family moments, and a slow burn that’s worth every page, When We Were More deserves a spot on your TBR.
August 29, 2025
This book was so sweet. I loved it! Not only was the love story beautiful, but the way all the characters connected with each other really made it special.
As someone who was super close to my grandma before she passed away, parts of this book hit me right in the heart. It was emotional, but in the best way. 💗
Tillie and Henry’s relationship? Ugh, loved it!!! Watching them fall for each other felt so natural and real. I adored how they allowed themselves to be vulnerable, opening up about their fears and insecurities, and in the process, helping each other heal. It’s the kind of love story that feels both tender and believable.
Now, I have to admit… my favorite character was Layla.🙊I loved that sweet girl! Every time she showed up, my heart melted a little. Her personality just shined through the pages, and her scenes were some of the most adorable ones to read.
Honestly, that’s one of the things I loved the most about this book: the secondary characters. Lester, Ruthie, Sally, the Aron brothers — they all added so much depth and warmth to the story. Oh, and getting to see Shannon again? Such a treat!
I’ve always been obsessed with series that revolve around siblings, and this one is shaping up to be such a fun journey. I seriously can’t wait to dive into each of the Aron brothers’ stories… especially Uncle Harry 👀🙊.
If you’re into emotional, heartfelt romance with characters that feel like real people you’d want to hang out with, this one’s for you. 💕
Huge thanks to Finley Daniels for letting me read this beautiful story as an ARC — it truly meant so much!
As someone who was super close to my grandma before she passed away, parts of this book hit me right in the heart. It was emotional, but in the best way. 💗
Tillie and Henry’s relationship? Ugh, loved it!!! Watching them fall for each other felt so natural and real. I adored how they allowed themselves to be vulnerable, opening up about their fears and insecurities, and in the process, helping each other heal. It’s the kind of love story that feels both tender and believable.
Now, I have to admit… my favorite character was Layla.🙊I loved that sweet girl! Every time she showed up, my heart melted a little. Her personality just shined through the pages, and her scenes were some of the most adorable ones to read.
Honestly, that’s one of the things I loved the most about this book: the secondary characters. Lester, Ruthie, Sally, the Aron brothers — they all added so much depth and warmth to the story. Oh, and getting to see Shannon again? Such a treat!
I’ve always been obsessed with series that revolve around siblings, and this one is shaping up to be such a fun journey. I seriously can’t wait to dive into each of the Aron brothers’ stories… especially Uncle Harry 👀🙊.
If you’re into emotional, heartfelt romance with characters that feel like real people you’d want to hang out with, this one’s for you. 💕
Huge thanks to Finley Daniels for letting me read this beautiful story as an ARC — it truly meant so much!
September 2, 2025
Five Star Start to the Series!
Single dad MMC and an FMC overcoming the effects of her ex and toxic family? Yes please!
I loved this story. Tillie’s Grandma saved her from her disastrous marriage and brought her to the place that holds her cherished childhood memories. She spends the next years growing stronger and finding herself again with the help of her Gran and a supportive gang of seniors. When her Gran passes, she decides to follow through with the plans to remodel the treasured farmhouse in honor of her. Enter Henry, the person that comes to address her complaint regarding a worker. What an awkward, messy meet cute.
Sparks flew from the beginning with Henry and Tillie, even though their first impressions were less than positive. I enjoyed every bit of their journey. They both have their own reasons to avoid relationships and are only interested in a friends with benefits situation (because those always work out so well). Throw in Henry’s two adorable girls, his meddling brothers, and a gang of seniors – and these two didn’t stand a chance.
This is a funny, sweet, emotional, found family story with a little spice mixed in. The star of the show is Layla, Henry’s sassy, bossy, delightful daughter who is wise beyond her years. I can’t recommend this enough and look forward to the next.
Single dad MMC and an FMC overcoming the effects of her ex and toxic family? Yes please!
I loved this story. Tillie’s Grandma saved her from her disastrous marriage and brought her to the place that holds her cherished childhood memories. She spends the next years growing stronger and finding herself again with the help of her Gran and a supportive gang of seniors. When her Gran passes, she decides to follow through with the plans to remodel the treasured farmhouse in honor of her. Enter Henry, the person that comes to address her complaint regarding a worker. What an awkward, messy meet cute.
Sparks flew from the beginning with Henry and Tillie, even though their first impressions were less than positive. I enjoyed every bit of their journey. They both have their own reasons to avoid relationships and are only interested in a friends with benefits situation (because those always work out so well). Throw in Henry’s two adorable girls, his meddling brothers, and a gang of seniors – and these two didn’t stand a chance.
This is a funny, sweet, emotional, found family story with a little spice mixed in. The star of the show is Layla, Henry’s sassy, bossy, delightful daughter who is wise beyond her years. I can’t recommend this enough and look forward to the next.
August 9, 2025
First book in the Aron Falls Series YOU. DID. NOT. DISAPPOINT… Thank you Finley Daniels for the ARC of this book... 😃
🖤 ARC REVIEW 🖤
What happens when you’re sure you’ll never love again? You fall for the sexy contractor remodeling your home of course…
After finding out her manipulative husband was having a divorce, Tillie decided to move in with her Gram’s in Aron Falls to start over.
Prior to her Gram’s passing she made her a few promises, one of which was to renovate the farm house. Renovation started with a hiccup and Henry came in to remedy the problem. Henry single father of two and the oldest Aron brother…
Attraction on both ends, denial at first and she disliked his cockiness, then they became friends, then friends with benefits… Both not wanting to fall in love due to past trauma/heartaches and fighting like hell to deny it, but love does conquer all…
Loved the relationship she not only had with Gram’s friends, but with Henry’s daughter…
“Tillie! We are the same! My daddy wasn’t my first dad, but he picked me, and he’s my forever daddy. He picked me, and he picked you, and that means we’re the same.”
Glad we had a glimpse of Shannon and Troy from Dream With Me (Elladine Fire Series)
Cannot wait to see what the rest of this series brings…
🖤 ARC REVIEW 🖤
What happens when you’re sure you’ll never love again? You fall for the sexy contractor remodeling your home of course…
After finding out her manipulative husband was having a divorce, Tillie decided to move in with her Gram’s in Aron Falls to start over.
Prior to her Gram’s passing she made her a few promises, one of which was to renovate the farm house. Renovation started with a hiccup and Henry came in to remedy the problem. Henry single father of two and the oldest Aron brother…
Attraction on both ends, denial at first and she disliked his cockiness, then they became friends, then friends with benefits… Both not wanting to fall in love due to past trauma/heartaches and fighting like hell to deny it, but love does conquer all…
Loved the relationship she not only had with Gram’s friends, but with Henry’s daughter…
“Tillie! We are the same! My daddy wasn’t my first dad, but he picked me, and he’s my forever daddy. He picked me, and he picked you, and that means we’re the same.”
Glad we had a glimpse of Shannon and Troy from Dream With Me (Elladine Fire Series)
Cannot wait to see what the rest of this series brings…
August 29, 2025
Having previously read and enjoyed Come Back to Me by this author, I was happy to receive an early copy in exchange for an honest review. When We Were More is the first book in a new series set in Aron Falls, featuring a family of five brothers.
In this story Henry Aron first meets Tillie when his company is the contractor renovating the farmhouse she has inherited from her late grandmother. There is a strong attraction between them, but neither is interested in a relationship.
Henry is a single dad to two daughters, who saw his mother fall to pieces when his beloved father died. He does not ever want to put himself in such a vulnerable position.
Growing up, Tillie’s parents did not make her feel loved. She knew her grandmother loved her, but was deeply traumatised by a controlling ex-husband. She still finds it hard to trust anyone.
Unable to stay away from each other, they decide to be friends with benefits, no feelings involved, but to quote the Scottish poet Robert Burns, ‘the best laid schemes o’ mice and men gang aft agley’.
The characters are believable, the small-town setting is vividly brought to life, and Henry’s daughter Layla is adorable. I look forward to reading the stories of the other Aron brothers, Harrison, Holden, Hayden and Heath.
In this story Henry Aron first meets Tillie when his company is the contractor renovating the farmhouse she has inherited from her late grandmother. There is a strong attraction between them, but neither is interested in a relationship.
Henry is a single dad to two daughters, who saw his mother fall to pieces when his beloved father died. He does not ever want to put himself in such a vulnerable position.
Growing up, Tillie’s parents did not make her feel loved. She knew her grandmother loved her, but was deeply traumatised by a controlling ex-husband. She still finds it hard to trust anyone.
Unable to stay away from each other, they decide to be friends with benefits, no feelings involved, but to quote the Scottish poet Robert Burns, ‘the best laid schemes o’ mice and men gang aft agley’.
The characters are believable, the small-town setting is vividly brought to life, and Henry’s daughter Layla is adorable. I look forward to reading the stories of the other Aron brothers, Harrison, Holden, Hayden and Heath.
August 10, 2025
I was lucky to be able to beta read this book for Finley. Thanks for giving me the opportunity 🥰
When We Were More starts off the new series Aron Falls. Aron Falls is a small town neighboring the small town of Elladine where Finley’s previous series Elladine Fire takes place.
This book has all the small town vibes and cinnamon roll swoon you want and it was a great series starter. We already met the FMC, Tillie, in Finley’s latest book and it was really nice to get to know her better and to learn about her backstory. She has been through a lot! So has the MMC and they have both sworn off love which gives the book an interesting dynamic. They have great chemistry though and I found myself with a big smile on my face when reading some of their scenes together.
I love how Finley always manages to write people who feel so real. Their insecurities are so relatable and they’re just very down to earth people which I love.
I’m super excited for the next book in the series too 😍
Tropes and stuff:
🏡Small Town
⚒️Dislike to friends with benefits to lovers
🏡Grief and healing
⚒️Millionaire MMC
🏡Accountant FMC
⚒️Single dad
🏡Both sworn off love
🌶️Open door spice
When We Were More starts off the new series Aron Falls. Aron Falls is a small town neighboring the small town of Elladine where Finley’s previous series Elladine Fire takes place.
This book has all the small town vibes and cinnamon roll swoon you want and it was a great series starter. We already met the FMC, Tillie, in Finley’s latest book and it was really nice to get to know her better and to learn about her backstory. She has been through a lot! So has the MMC and they have both sworn off love which gives the book an interesting dynamic. They have great chemistry though and I found myself with a big smile on my face when reading some of their scenes together.
I love how Finley always manages to write people who feel so real. Their insecurities are so relatable and they’re just very down to earth people which I love.
I’m super excited for the next book in the series too 😍
Tropes and stuff:
🏡Small Town
⚒️Dislike to friends with benefits to lovers
🏡Grief and healing
⚒️Millionaire MMC
🏡Accountant FMC
⚒️Single dad
🏡Both sworn off love
🌶️Open door spice
August 17, 2025
An emotional read as we meet Tillie who has never known love, except from her grandmother, and has given up on ever finding it and building her life alone. Until she has issues with the workers from the contractor she hired to renovate her kitchen and Henry comes into her life. There is something about him that irritates her and he kind of eggs it on, delighted at the hot reactions she gives him. He took care of the problem, but can't leave the job to his employees, drawn to the house and the woman. Henry has his own failed marriage and two delightful daughters who were abandoned by their mother. In touching scenes we find out the story and why Henry is reluctant to commit to love. Such a sweet and emotional story of two people who find love when they least expect it and are pushed on by a delightful little girl who sees more than her father realizes.
August 29, 2025
Review:
✨When We Were More✨
Aron Falls #1
By Finley Daniels
✨ Small Town Romance
✨ Contemporary Romance
✨ New Adult
⭐ 5/5
Tillie and Henry
This journey follows Tillie and Henry. Tillie, who never wants to fall in love again after her own heartbreak story. And Henry who has his own reasons and responsibilities.
But both have to spend time together, because she needs him to renovate her late Grandma’s home. Which was a promise Tillie had to fulfill.
Both have pasts filled with grief and heartbreak that resulted in fears and building walls. And their first encounters are not with likes.
Their relationship goes from a dislike stage to becoming friends and then more.
A beautiful story about finding love and overcoming fears and with character you can relate to and will love.
✨When We Were More✨
Aron Falls #1
By Finley Daniels
✨ Small Town Romance
✨ Contemporary Romance
✨ New Adult
⭐ 5/5
Tillie and Henry
This journey follows Tillie and Henry. Tillie, who never wants to fall in love again after her own heartbreak story. And Henry who has his own reasons and responsibilities.
But both have to spend time together, because she needs him to renovate her late Grandma’s home. Which was a promise Tillie had to fulfill.
Both have pasts filled with grief and heartbreak that resulted in fears and building walls. And their first encounters are not with likes.
Their relationship goes from a dislike stage to becoming friends and then more.
A beautiful story about finding love and overcoming fears and with character you can relate to and will love.
August 14, 2025
I highly recommend reading this book. It was so fantastic. I love this author’s writing more and more with every book. Tillie and Henry’s love story started out with Tillie not liking her conceited contractor that is renovating her kitchen. When they began being friends it quickly became friends with benefits. Neither was looking for anything beyond that. Both came from horrible past relationships and is bound and determined to not do that again. Talking about a roller coaster ride full of emotions and angst. This is definitely the book. I absolutely fell in love with Layla. She was a hoot. I’m so glad this couple had a happy ending as well as Henry’s girls. If you want to read a phenomenal story then this book is for you.
August 29, 2025
Finley Daniels brings another real, relatable story with all the 'feels'. A different small town, a new family, the same fabulous writing I've grown to love. Add renovations and secret rendevous, sweet little girls and some amazing characters and you have an amazing new series that I can't wait to explore, one Aron brother at a time. The supporting characters that this author creates are simply amazing. I love the support that Tillie has found since she was rescued and brought 'home' to Aron Falls. I wish we could have met Gram, but her legacy in Tillie, the town and her friends gave you a beautiful picture of the woman she was. Speaking of friends Lester, Ruthie and Sallie are the BEST old friends a girl can have. I can't wait for that first favorite uncle's story.....
November 1, 2025
Tillie has been left her grandmother’s farmhouse. The only place she felt loved. Her parents never should her love, being divorced a controlling husband. The only person who ever should her love was her grandmother. So making her not to believe in love or trust any one.
Henry is a single dad of two daughters, who also doesn’t want to fall in love, after he saw his mother fall apart when his father died. The two meet when his contracting firm is hired to renovate Tillie’s farmhouse.
There is a strong attraction between them, but neither want a relationship. So they decide to be friends with benefits, no feelings involved.
Loved the characters, whose emotions are full and will pull you in.
Henry is a single dad of two daughters, who also doesn’t want to fall in love, after he saw his mother fall apart when his father died. The two meet when his contracting firm is hired to renovate Tillie’s farmhouse.
There is a strong attraction between them, but neither want a relationship. So they decide to be friends with benefits, no feelings involved.
Loved the characters, whose emotions are full and will pull you in.
June 18, 2026
Don't know why I even started reading this because I don't like small town romances, for the usual reasons (everybody knows your business, lots of past history to wade through etc). But I really didn't like this one because Tillie is such an annoying cranky female. She has deep trust issues, I get that and why. But she's a real bitch too.
“It sucks that you had to clean up your coworkers’ mess. You should talk to your boss and see about getting that guy remediated on how to behave.” 'Remediated?' what is that word?
I skipped a lot of the chapters but still can't read this; it's too long and boring. DNF. The plot is blindingly obvious (multimillionaire living in a small town but somehow expanding the business all over the west falls for a cranky bitch of an abused woman).
“It sucks that you had to clean up your coworkers’ mess. You should talk to your boss and see about getting that guy remediated on how to behave.” 'Remediated?' what is that word?
I skipped a lot of the chapters but still can't read this; it's too long and boring. DNF. The plot is blindingly obvious (multimillionaire living in a small town but somehow expanding the business all over the west falls for a cranky bitch of an abused woman).
August 24, 2025
I absolutely loved all the relationships between Tillie and her grandmother's friends, Henry with his family, and both Tillie and Henry with his daughters. Tillie was dealing with grief from the recent death of her grandmother and gets off on the wrong foot with the contractor dealing with her home's renovation & restoration. Tillie and Henry's past relationships cause them to not want anything serious (which one scene did make Henry seem contradictory) and entering a friends with benefit situation. There were some emotional scenes and many hilarious moments. Excited for Harrison's book and to learn why he's so quiet and grumpy.
September 1, 2025
Amazing, as everything Finley Daniels creates!
When We Were More is a deeply emotional start of a new series, Aron Falsls that hits straight in the heart. We follow Tillie, who’s never known love beyond her grandmother’s care, as she cautiously steps out into the world and discovers new connections, and maybe hope.
Honest, tender, and beautifully written, perfect for when you want a romance that soothes rather than dazzles.
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I received an ARC and am writing an honest review of what I read.
When We Were More is a deeply emotional start of a new series, Aron Falsls that hits straight in the heart. We follow Tillie, who’s never known love beyond her grandmother’s care, as she cautiously steps out into the world and discovers new connections, and maybe hope.
Honest, tender, and beautifully written, perfect for when you want a romance that soothes rather than dazzles.
--
I received an ARC and am writing an honest review of what I read.
April 10, 2026
3.75⭐️ I enjoyed this book! Will probably read book two, didn’t immediately connect with all the brothers but I am interested in Harrison’s book..maybe I’ll get sucked in the more I read. I love the family dynamic and all the brothers so I feel like it will be a good series!
Hearing Matilda talk about her childhood, was heartbreaking! Literally bawled when she told Henry about the bike riding scene. I never wanted to punch a fictional character (her dad) more in my life!
Kindle unlimited
Hearing Matilda talk about her childhood, was heartbreaking! Literally bawled when she told Henry about the bike riding scene. I never wanted to punch a fictional character (her dad) more in my life!
Kindle unlimited
April 30, 2026
I got this book from my romance reveal book box and I immediately read the synopsis and was intrigued. When I read the dedication I was immediately sold. This book was so good, so relatable, heartbreaking, and so addicting. Somewhat of a slow burn, but so worth the read. Tillie is renovating her late grandmothers cabin and Henry is a single dad, and her grumpy contractor. The two butt heads, but end up falling for each other.
June 24, 2026
This is the first book I've by Daniels and I enjoyed it very much. A recently divorced Tillie just inherited her beloved grandmother's farmhouse and moves there. She hires Henry, a contractor and single dad to help her restore the house. This story involves many issues including an abusive husband, fear of re-marriage, a widower with issues and a single dad with other twists and turns.
September 20, 2025
I always love it when I stumble across a new to me author !!! I fell in love with Henry and Tillie…. Layla and Lena absolutely melted my heart….. I fell for this crazy loud and loving bunch immediately and I can’t wait for more !!! I love how they both pretended so naively that it was friends with bennies and nothing more…. HAHAHA yeah ok , the connection and chemistry were instant …..
September 26, 2025
It's meh book. It supposed to be an emotional journey book, but I'm not feeling it.
It's a bit hard to believe that in that small town they never met each other. Yes, it's a border town whatever but still hard to believe for me. I also don't like Henry's view of women, it felt like he only use them. Not to forget, he didn't even try to be honest to Tillie about his past "fling".
It's a bit hard to believe that in that small town they never met each other. Yes, it's a border town whatever but still hard to believe for me. I also don't like Henry's view of women, it felt like he only use them. Not to forget, he didn't even try to be honest to Tillie about his past "fling".
April 30, 2026
I really enjoyed this as a start to the Aron Falls series. It is a slow burn and I had to push through the first few chapters because I did not find Tillie likable at all, but as I learned more about her and her family I was glad I stuck with it. Enjoyed it overall, great dialogue and will reach for Harrison’s story when it come out.
August 20, 2025
5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book did not disappoint!! Small town, single dad with open door spice... YES PLEASE!!
I fell in love with Tillie and Henry from the beginning, but Layla was my favorite (when you know, you know 🤷🏻♀️). This was an emotional and sweet story. I highly recommend reading this book!!
Thank you Finley for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team 🥰
This book did not disappoint!! Small town, single dad with open door spice... YES PLEASE!!
I fell in love with Tillie and Henry from the beginning, but Layla was my favorite (when you know, you know 🤷🏻♀️). This was an emotional and sweet story. I highly recommend reading this book!!
Thank you Finley for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team 🥰
November 17, 2025
Such a good read I didn’t like how both had some what same issues and the unconditional love that parents should have for their children is hard BUT the family doesn’t have to be blood really hits hard
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2026
Fantastic heartwarming read!
What an amazing book! I absolutely adored this one and can’t wait to read the rest of the series. The Arons family are great and I loved tillie so much. Grams, her friends, the girls were all perfect.
What an amazing book! I absolutely adored this one and can’t wait to read the rest of the series. The Arons family are great and I loved tillie so much. Grams, her friends, the girls were all perfect.
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