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Gomillion High Reunion
Reece & Holden
Gomillion High Reunion series is a multi-author collaboration celebrating the 20th reunion of former classmates in a charming small town. From fake dating and long-held rivalries to first loves and second chances, anything can happen when the past and present collide. Don’t miss the reunion - RSVP today!
249 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 9, 2025
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October 5, 2025
Reece and Holden by Jem Wendel is part of the Gomillion High Reunion series by various authors. It is the story of a man who did some awful things to his friend in high school, the man who is still hurting from it, and how the met again at their 20 year reunion, made amends, and found the love that was there, even through the harshest times. Reece Fisher left Gomillion, South Carolina, right after high school and never went back. He went to college in the UK and then formed a company that does engineering for construction companies with his friend, Nolan, in Oxford, England. He also discovered he had a half-brother, Mac, who was a few months older than him from when his father cheated, and got a found family including Mac’s mother Marina, his partner Levi, and Nolan’s boyfriend, Uli. When the invitation to his 20th high school reunion arrived, he wasn’t going to go. He had been a horrible bully, taunting, shoving, and yelling at a boy he knew liked other boys during their last semester, and he had had therapy and changed so much that he knew he needed to return to apologize and try to make up for it. There was a reason behind this that involved his father and how he tried to please him but he soon realized that his father wasn’t a good person and he didn’t like what he had become because of it. His mother still lived in Gomillion and he only saw her when she visited him so it was time for him to go back. The boy he bullied was Holden Pearce. He still lived in the town and owned a very successful yarn shop called Yarning for Ewe. He had started knitting when he was in 3rd Grade and the hobby turned into his profession. His best friend, Clara, helped when she could and she knew what Reece had done to him back in their senior year. Reece’s mother knitted and came to the shop often so it was difficult for Holden to see her, but she was a good customer so he did his best to be helpful. When the reunion notice came and he knew Reece would be there, he wasn’t going to go, but Clara told him he should to show him that his actions no longer affect him and she said she will go with him. The day of the first reunion activity Reece was going to see Holden before it started to apologize but he overslept from being jet-lagged. So when they saw each other Reece tried to apologize but Holden wasn’t accepting it. The next day he arrived at the shop with cinnamon rolls and tried again, but no success. Their “prom” was that night so Reece went and talked to a friend and told him he likes men, and the friend was shocked, but he also explained that he learned a lot about himself during the years and that he had changed. He asked Holden for a dance but that also ended quickly. Reece had to return to the UK for a work emergency but came back and found out that Clara can’t accompany Holden to Charlotte for him to look at a new store locations and he volunteered to go with him. They talked on the way and Holden was feeling more comfortable but on the way home his car broke down and they end up sharing a bed in a run down motel for 2 days. That is when everything came pouring out and why Reece did what he did and Holden is able to forgive him. This leads to revelations about both of them having a crush on each other, although Reece didn’t really know his feelings at the time, and then they kiss. Reece has never felt this way before and wants to continue to explore a relationship with Holden. He meets Holden’s family and when Reece is gone for several days on a trip with his Mom and Marina, they really miss each other and they end up having a hot love scene when he returned. There are many decisions that have to be made, like where they would live so they could be together and how they could make their jobs work and luckily a surprise trip to Oxford by Holden leads to all the answers that they want and they know they love each other and are going to make it work. I really enjoyed this story. Reece was so mean and hurtful to Holden in high school but there is a reason behind it. Holden held on to that hurt for the 20 years until he saw him again and wasn’t going to accept his apology easily. It took Reece time to show him he had changed and that he wanted to make amends. As they saw each other more they could see the people they had become and it wasn’t long until their early crushes became reality. Reece’s family and their friends play a big part in the story as they help them see what they could be to each other and not to give up. And a little heart that Holden knitted is key to helping them get together. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like enemies to lovers stories about a man who deeply hurt another, how he tries to apologize for what he did and to make amends, and how their being together after 20 years helps them see what happened and that they wanted and loved each other all along.
November 6, 2025
𝑰’𝒎 𝒏𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒓𝒚 𝒕𝒆𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒈𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒖𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒎. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒊𝒇 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎.
𝑹𝒆𝒆𝒄𝒆. 𝑴𝒚 𝒃𝒖𝒍𝒍𝒚. 𝑴𝒚 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒄𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒉.
I loved Jem Wendel's Reece & Holden, which is part of the fantastic multi-author Gomillion High Reunion series.
Reece Fisher hasn't been back to Gomillion for 20 years, but when his high school reunion comes around, he knows it's time to make amends for the past.
Reece made mistakes in high school, which still haunt him, bullying his friend Holden with homophobic taunts when his own home life imploded.
Reece became an angry 18-year-old, and in an attempt to impress his terrible father, he became a bully and made Holden's life a misery.
That version of Reece isn't the man he is, and he wants to show that to those he's hurt and apologise for the way he treated them.
Holden Pearce, meanwhile, has become a successful businessman, running his own yarn store, with plans to expand. But when he learns Reece is coming home, his anxiety rises. Convinced to go to the reunion by his friend, Clara, to prove Reece no longer has an effect on him, Holden prepares to face his bully.
To say their first meeting doesn't go well is an understatement, and Holden has a visceral reaction to seeing Reece again.
But Reece keeps trying, and eventually Holden sees that the Reece he knew at 18 has changed.
“𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒇 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒂 𝒉𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕.”
I loved the relationship development between them and how they became tentative friends, after Reece accompanied Holden to view a new property for his expanding store, and then eventually more.
These two were very sweet together - the knitted heart was precious - and Reece definitely showed that he firmly regretted his previous behaviour and made amends.
I loved how they reached their HEA, despite the obstacles they had to overcome, and I was intrigued by several side characters, who I'll be looking out for in the future.
𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒇𝒕𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆, 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒑𝒖𝒛𝒛𝒍𝒆 𝒑𝒊𝒆𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍 𝒄𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆. 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒈𝒐.
𝑹𝒆𝒆𝒄𝒆. 𝑴𝒚 𝒃𝒖𝒍𝒍𝒚. 𝑴𝒚 𝒇𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝒄𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒉.
I loved Jem Wendel's Reece & Holden, which is part of the fantastic multi-author Gomillion High Reunion series.
Reece Fisher hasn't been back to Gomillion for 20 years, but when his high school reunion comes around, he knows it's time to make amends for the past.
Reece made mistakes in high school, which still haunt him, bullying his friend Holden with homophobic taunts when his own home life imploded.
Reece became an angry 18-year-old, and in an attempt to impress his terrible father, he became a bully and made Holden's life a misery.
That version of Reece isn't the man he is, and he wants to show that to those he's hurt and apologise for the way he treated them.
Holden Pearce, meanwhile, has become a successful businessman, running his own yarn store, with plans to expand. But when he learns Reece is coming home, his anxiety rises. Convinced to go to the reunion by his friend, Clara, to prove Reece no longer has an effect on him, Holden prepares to face his bully.
To say their first meeting doesn't go well is an understatement, and Holden has a visceral reaction to seeing Reece again.
But Reece keeps trying, and eventually Holden sees that the Reece he knew at 18 has changed.
“𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒚 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒇 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒂 𝒉𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕.”
I loved the relationship development between them and how they became tentative friends, after Reece accompanied Holden to view a new property for his expanding store, and then eventually more.
These two were very sweet together - the knitted heart was precious - and Reece definitely showed that he firmly regretted his previous behaviour and made amends.
I loved how they reached their HEA, despite the obstacles they had to overcome, and I was intrigued by several side characters, who I'll be looking out for in the future.
𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒇𝒕𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒆, 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒑𝒖𝒛𝒛𝒍𝒆 𝒑𝒊𝒆𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍 𝒄𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆. 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒈𝒐.
October 5, 2025
Reece & Holden is part of the new multi-author Gomillion High Reunion series, but firmly rooted in Jem’s fantastic Larchdown Valley.
Reece has hinted he had no love for his hometown, so him going to his20th reunion seems out of character.
The revelation that Reece, who we’ve come to love as a brother/friend/mentor, was a bully in high school doesn’t seem to match the man we know.
But his behavior towards former friend Holden has haunted him,and he wants, needs to make amends. A complicated, fractious relationship with philandering father, turned him into someone he didn’t recognize, and he needs to prove he’s changed.
Having Reece travel from his home base of Oxford to his small South Carolina hometown adds a fish out of water aspect to this beautiful story about forgiveness and acceptance.
Like Reece, Holden hasn’t forgotten high school, but he’s changed from that bullied, broken boy. He now owns a successful yarn shop and Reece’s mom is one of his best customers.
But when he sees Reece at the reunion, he has a visceral reaction showing the past is never really the past. And Reece realizes atonement won’t be easy.
How these two find their way to detente, then gentle friendship and tentative romance is delicately done.
Reece owns up to his behavior, giving an explanation but never excuses. To me, this is key. We’ve seen Reece is not that angry 18 year old, but it’s important Holden sees that, too.
And Holden, what a kind, sweet soul. Seeing him find the strength to go for his dreams is powerful.
The way Jem has them navigate their HEA is so lovely. She doesn’t shy away from how the bullying scarred Holden, and how therapy was vital. The conversations Reece and Holden are profound and help the healing process.
A beautiful second chance story.
Can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend a deep dive into the Larchdown Valley stories. They are amazing and highly recommended.
Reece has hinted he had no love for his hometown, so him going to his20th reunion seems out of character.
The revelation that Reece, who we’ve come to love as a brother/friend/mentor, was a bully in high school doesn’t seem to match the man we know.
But his behavior towards former friend Holden has haunted him,and he wants, needs to make amends. A complicated, fractious relationship with philandering father, turned him into someone he didn’t recognize, and he needs to prove he’s changed.
Having Reece travel from his home base of Oxford to his small South Carolina hometown adds a fish out of water aspect to this beautiful story about forgiveness and acceptance.
Like Reece, Holden hasn’t forgotten high school, but he’s changed from that bullied, broken boy. He now owns a successful yarn shop and Reece’s mom is one of his best customers.
But when he sees Reece at the reunion, he has a visceral reaction showing the past is never really the past. And Reece realizes atonement won’t be easy.
How these two find their way to detente, then gentle friendship and tentative romance is delicately done.
Reece owns up to his behavior, giving an explanation but never excuses. To me, this is key. We’ve seen Reece is not that angry 18 year old, but it’s important Holden sees that, too.
And Holden, what a kind, sweet soul. Seeing him find the strength to go for his dreams is powerful.
The way Jem has them navigate their HEA is so lovely. She doesn’t shy away from how the bullying scarred Holden, and how therapy was vital. The conversations Reece and Holden are profound and help the healing process.
A beautiful second chance story.
Can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend a deep dive into the Larchdown Valley stories. They are amazing and highly recommended.
October 9, 2025
This was such a beautiful story. I love bully redemption arcs. No, I do not condone bullying but I also know that more often than not, bullies are being bullied themselves or are just venting whatever is happening at home and this one was exactly that.
Reece and Holden were friends at one point when they were young, until everything in Reece’s life started falling apart. His only option? Lash out at the person he cared the most but was afraid to admit he cared for.
Holden just happened to be an easy target for Reece and that’s something he has lived with for the last 20 years. He needed Holden’s forgiveness and he’d do anything to get it.
Holden’s life was a mess after Reece’s bullying. Just his name gave him anxiety but there was also the fact that even after being bullied, he still liked Reece.
Holden didn’t want to feel powerless when it came to seeing Reece again and boy did he stand up for himself! I loved how he stood his ground even if he was still scared. I also loved that he made Reece grovel for his forgiveness and didn’t excuse his behavior.
Reece learned his lesson and took it upon himself to show Holden how sorry he was and how much he loved him. They really belonged together even if they didn’t know it when they were younger.
I loved that Holden was a knitter like me. It made me so happy how he wore his own creations and how proud Reece was of him. Reece was his biggest fan and supporter and that made me forgive him easier 😆
Reece and Holden were friends at one point when they were young, until everything in Reece’s life started falling apart. His only option? Lash out at the person he cared the most but was afraid to admit he cared for.
Holden just happened to be an easy target for Reece and that’s something he has lived with for the last 20 years. He needed Holden’s forgiveness and he’d do anything to get it.
Holden’s life was a mess after Reece’s bullying. Just his name gave him anxiety but there was also the fact that even after being bullied, he still liked Reece.
Holden didn’t want to feel powerless when it came to seeing Reece again and boy did he stand up for himself! I loved how he stood his ground even if he was still scared. I also loved that he made Reece grovel for his forgiveness and didn’t excuse his behavior.
Reece learned his lesson and took it upon himself to show Holden how sorry he was and how much he loved him. They really belonged together even if they didn’t know it when they were younger.
I loved that Holden was a knitter like me. It made me so happy how he wore his own creations and how proud Reece was of him. Reece was his biggest fan and supporter and that made me forgive him easier 😆
October 20, 2025
green sweater vest, little red/pink knitted heart, pecan honey biscuits, 7-Eleven, ham-like bacon, Iowa, finger the plate
I had no expectations, but this is a great book. Then again, it's by Jem Wendel. What else would you expect? It's a fine addition to the "Gomillion High Reunion" series. It's a multi-author collaboration, and every book I've read is fantastic. It's a good premise.
Holden Pearce owns the 'Yarning for Ewe' yarn shop in Gomillion. He's not planning to attend his 20th high school reunion. He was teased and bullied while in school. And when he's nervous or stressed, his stutter appears. When he hears his biggest bullier will be attending, he firmly decides not to attend. Until his best friend Clara cajoles him into it.
Engineer/project manager Reece Fisher calls England his home. He's been there since leaving Gomillion High. He has deep regrets from being an angry bully back then. He decides to go to his reunion in order to make amends to those he wronged.
Holden hopes to project his moving past his demons and become a successful businessman despite that. He throws up when Reece comes over to speak to him during the opening reunion cocktail party. Such a fabulous impression. Complicating thing is Holden still has a crush on his HS bully.
As you can tell from my first paragraph, I quickly read and really enjoyed this book. So, recommending this is easy.
I had no expectations, but this is a great book. Then again, it's by Jem Wendel. What else would you expect? It's a fine addition to the "Gomillion High Reunion" series. It's a multi-author collaboration, and every book I've read is fantastic. It's a good premise.
Holden Pearce owns the 'Yarning for Ewe' yarn shop in Gomillion. He's not planning to attend his 20th high school reunion. He was teased and bullied while in school. And when he's nervous or stressed, his stutter appears. When he hears his biggest bullier will be attending, he firmly decides not to attend. Until his best friend Clara cajoles him into it.
Engineer/project manager Reece Fisher calls England his home. He's been there since leaving Gomillion High. He has deep regrets from being an angry bully back then. He decides to go to his reunion in order to make amends to those he wronged.
Holden hopes to project his moving past his demons and become a successful businessman despite that. He throws up when Reece comes over to speak to him during the opening reunion cocktail party. Such a fabulous impression. Complicating thing is Holden still has a crush on his HS bully.
As you can tell from my first paragraph, I quickly read and really enjoyed this book. So, recommending this is easy.
October 8, 2025
I love Gomillion, the small town with all the well „small town feeling“ and a story where everything unfolds in the end like it’s ment to be…
This one is another book in the Gomillion High Reunion Series and a sweet, low- angst and comfy read. You can go through it easy in one sitting cause Reece & Holden will capture your attention.
They know each other from Highschool, when Reece wasn’t very nice to Holden. Reece goes from being a bully to the sweetest guy who is attentive and caring.
Holden is sweet, shy, crafty and very artistically gifted who never was able to quite shake off what Reece did to him Highschool.
Other than that fact and a few mentions of said bullying, the story concentrates on them getting together.
After some back and forth - Holden is holding his ground in resenting Reece for a bit - and some time in very close proximity - they get to talk and get to know each other. One thing leeds to another… and they kiss… their first kiss feels very romantic ❤️
We get to see them on their dates, in the bedroom - all the 🔥 stuff (Holden looks so innocent in the outside)- under the stars and it is great to get a first row seat to see them falling in Love!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one is another book in the Gomillion High Reunion Series and a sweet, low- angst and comfy read. You can go through it easy in one sitting cause Reece & Holden will capture your attention.
They know each other from Highschool, when Reece wasn’t very nice to Holden. Reece goes from being a bully to the sweetest guy who is attentive and caring.
Holden is sweet, shy, crafty and very artistically gifted who never was able to quite shake off what Reece did to him Highschool.
Other than that fact and a few mentions of said bullying, the story concentrates on them getting together.
After some back and forth - Holden is holding his ground in resenting Reece for a bit - and some time in very close proximity - they get to talk and get to know each other. One thing leeds to another… and they kiss… their first kiss feels very romantic ❤️
We get to see them on their dates, in the bedroom - all the 🔥 stuff (Holden looks so innocent in the outside)- under the stars and it is great to get a first row seat to see them falling in Love!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 4, 2025
Reece returns from the UK to go to his high school reunion and apologize for bullying Holden then. He’s done a lot of work on himself, realized he was trying to get approval from his Dad and was afraid to come out, figuring that out later.
Holden owns a yarn shop and is so successful he’s looking to open a second store. He’s anxious about Reece being at the high school reunion, but when they meet he finally stands up to him. Then Reece explains why he was such a jerk and that he’s gay too, and they both admit their attraction to the other.
The romance is quick, but the feelings are decades old, and when Reece defends Holden in front of his Dad Holden sees how far he’s come.
Holden finds a yarn shop in England and they decide to live there, which Reece deeply appreciates.
This is a light read, even with the bullying, and things chug along smoothly. The knitted heart Holden gives Reece is sweet, the men are both interesting, but the pace of this book and the romance is a bit too fast for me. Still, a fun, easy read.
I received this ARC for free, and am glad to provide my honest review in appreciation.
Holden owns a yarn shop and is so successful he’s looking to open a second store. He’s anxious about Reece being at the high school reunion, but when they meet he finally stands up to him. Then Reece explains why he was such a jerk and that he’s gay too, and they both admit their attraction to the other.
The romance is quick, but the feelings are decades old, and when Reece defends Holden in front of his Dad Holden sees how far he’s come.
Holden finds a yarn shop in England and they decide to live there, which Reece deeply appreciates.
This is a light read, even with the bullying, and things chug along smoothly. The knitted heart Holden gives Reece is sweet, the men are both interesting, but the pace of this book and the romance is a bit too fast for me. Still, a fun, easy read.
I received this ARC for free, and am glad to provide my honest review in appreciation.
October 12, 2025
Reece & Holden is Jem Wendel's contribution to the multi-author Gomillion High Reunion series. I haven't read too many bully redemption stories, but I found this one exceptional. Reece escaped to England after high school graduation, but not before he totally destroyed his friendship with Holden. Like most of the MCs in this series, he didn't want to attend the high school's 20th year reunion. But he wanted to make amends and explain himself to the man he never forgot.
I found this to be an angsty read. It certainly played on my heartstrings. Once we got passed the "I hate you so much" and past the rather emotional explanation, this was a very sweet story. The story moved along a bit too quick to be realistic. It just requires a suspend your disbelief mindset. Family interference helped move things along.
It was a quick, mostly fun read with a few need tissues moments. I've read the Larchdown Valley series which is where we were introduced to a successful, well adjusted Reece. And once he was able to demonstrate that side to Holden, they were on their way to a sizzling hot HEA.
I received an advanced copy from GRR and this is my review.
I found this to be an angsty read. It certainly played on my heartstrings. Once we got passed the "I hate you so much" and past the rather emotional explanation, this was a very sweet story. The story moved along a bit too quick to be realistic. It just requires a suspend your disbelief mindset. Family interference helped move things along.
It was a quick, mostly fun read with a few need tissues moments. I've read the Larchdown Valley series which is where we were introduced to a successful, well adjusted Reece. And once he was able to demonstrate that side to Holden, they were on their way to a sizzling hot HEA.
I received an advanced copy from GRR and this is my review.
October 3, 2025
*ARC REVIEW*
This was a really cute story about a former high school bully regretting his past and has plans to make it up to the one man he can't stop thinking about. 20 years may have passed, but you never forget being a total asshole to someone.
Reece has a plan that goes completely off the tracks. His 20 year high school reunion is coming up and he needs to make the past right. He needs to tell the one who got away, exactly how he feels and apologize for all his wrongdoings.
Holden is perfectly content with never seeing Reece again after high school. He hopes to go to his high school reunion and have some fun with some former classmates. Until, the one person who made the last months of school a living nightmare, shows up.
Throughout the story, we learn the truth about why Reece did what he did and how he secretly felt all along. Holden and Reece are both fighting demons and work through them together. It's not always easy to forgive someone, but when you do, you know that whatever is on the other side, will be absolutely worth the wait.
This was a really cute story about a former high school bully regretting his past and has plans to make it up to the one man he can't stop thinking about. 20 years may have passed, but you never forget being a total asshole to someone.
Reece has a plan that goes completely off the tracks. His 20 year high school reunion is coming up and he needs to make the past right. He needs to tell the one who got away, exactly how he feels and apologize for all his wrongdoings.
Holden is perfectly content with never seeing Reece again after high school. He hopes to go to his high school reunion and have some fun with some former classmates. Until, the one person who made the last months of school a living nightmare, shows up.
Throughout the story, we learn the truth about why Reece did what he did and how he secretly felt all along. Holden and Reece are both fighting demons and work through them together. It's not always easy to forgive someone, but when you do, you know that whatever is on the other side, will be absolutely worth the wait.
October 14, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. This was the second book I read in the Gomillion High Reunion series. The story centers around Holden (who was bullied in high school) and Reece ( the homophobic bully in high school). Reece has matured and made a decision to right past wrongs starting by going to his high school reunion and making amends with the person he hurt the most. Holden has moved on with his life, however, the scars from his past treatment have colored how he views life and sometimes himself. What Holden does not know is, Reece had a crush on him and was unable to live his truth because of how his father would have reacted. Instead, Reece made the lives of those around him miserable.
There are several sweet moments in the story and there is a friend of Holden's that should be a friend of many people. Taking a chance on each other and then taking huge chances and moving from all they know just to be together, truly proves anything is possible if both people are committed. Very, very swee
There are several sweet moments in the story and there is a friend of Holden's that should be a friend of many people. Taking a chance on each other and then taking huge chances and moving from all they know just to be together, truly proves anything is possible if both people are committed. Very, very swee
October 20, 2025
This is a story about Holden and Reece, who are unexpectedly reunited at their twenty-year high school reunion, forcing them to confront a history of bullying and buried feelings. Holden hated high school because of a mistake that led to months of bullying. He's terrified of his former tormentor, Reece, returning, but is even more afraid that his long-suppressed feelings for Reece haven't faded. Reece hated his small town and left right after graduation, but he sees the reunion as his one chance to right his wrongs with Holden. He is hoping Holden will allow him to explain himself and accept his apology, which will involve revealing a twenty-year-old secret.
I loved this story that had a complex reunion where past pain mixed with unresolved attraction. I loved that they discussed emotions, thoughts and feelings both in the past as well as the present day. Bullying is not cool no matter the reasons and the discussions about it and the effects were well described. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story that had a complex reunion where past pain mixed with unresolved attraction. I loved that they discussed emotions, thoughts and feelings both in the past as well as the present day. Bullying is not cool no matter the reasons and the discussions about it and the effects were well described. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
September 29, 2025
Cute, slow romance between old high school friends turned victim/bully who reunited at the reunion 20 years later. They make up after Reece apologizes, and then work on figuring out how to be together - since one owns a yarn shop in Gomillion and the other owns a business in the U.K.
I disliked Holden's best friend, whose only purpose seemed to be to demand he 'tell her everything' and then either be overly protective of him and treat him like a victim, or other times throw him to the wolves when his schedule didn't suit hers. Realistically I think there's no way his yarn shop was successful enough that he could buy a second store, or just buy out one in the U.K. and figure out how to manage it so quickly. So as long as you don't expect too much reality here, it's a cute fantasy.
The side characters have their own books, so if you're read some of this author's stuff before, you've likely run across them.
I disliked Holden's best friend, whose only purpose seemed to be to demand he 'tell her everything' and then either be overly protective of him and treat him like a victim, or other times throw him to the wolves when his schedule didn't suit hers. Realistically I think there's no way his yarn shop was successful enough that he could buy a second store, or just buy out one in the U.K. and figure out how to manage it so quickly. So as long as you don't expect too much reality here, it's a cute fantasy.
The side characters have their own books, so if you're read some of this author's stuff before, you've likely run across them.
September 30, 2025
This is a cute school reunion romance, nice to read curled up on a sofa.
It's part of a multi-author universe but a full stand-alone.
I am glad seeing Reece's story now, I liked his character in the Larchdown books. You don't have to read them but if you want to know more, I would recommend Resisting the Urge to get the background.
It's a bit of a fast story from Reece returning to his hometown to face the victim of his bullying to making up (there is only one bed-story), falling in love and sorting out their lives.
It's a bit hard to believe, leave a bit of reality behind and you can definitley enjoy the story.
These two are cute together, no doubt but I felt the move from Holden hating Reece and having panic/anxiety attacks to talking and spending time together and falling in love just too fast. Reece's explanations are very valid but it all feels just a bit too easy. It's a very low angst book but I think a bit more could have benefitted the story.
It's part of a multi-author universe but a full stand-alone.
I am glad seeing Reece's story now, I liked his character in the Larchdown books. You don't have to read them but if you want to know more, I would recommend Resisting the Urge to get the background.
It's a bit of a fast story from Reece returning to his hometown to face the victim of his bullying to making up (there is only one bed-story), falling in love and sorting out their lives.
It's a bit hard to believe, leave a bit of reality behind and you can definitley enjoy the story.
These two are cute together, no doubt but I felt the move from Holden hating Reece and having panic/anxiety attacks to talking and spending time together and falling in love just too fast. Reece's explanations are very valid but it all feels just a bit too easy. It's a very low angst book but I think a bit more could have benefitted the story.
October 28, 2025
“You’re both incredibly stubborn, but you’re also kind, and I think if you see there’s a chance to make something right, you’ll take it.”
“I don’t know if I can make it right,” I reply.
“You never will unless you try.”
I really love bully redemption romances, so I was looking forward to this book. And it turned out to be a beautiful romance. Good world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Holden and Reece. Reece really did want to apologize and make amends. How the bullying effected Holden wasn't something that could just be wiped clean, but I liked the communication between them- as well as Holden speaking his peace- and how the two of them came to understand each other. I liked the growing connection and the way their relationship developed. It all felt relatable and understandable and I was happy for their happy ending. They were so sweet together and their chemistry was pretty hot. I also liked the supporting characters. 5 stars
“I don’t know if I can make it right,” I reply.
“You never will unless you try.”
I really love bully redemption romances, so I was looking forward to this book. And it turned out to be a beautiful romance. Good world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Holden and Reece. Reece really did want to apologize and make amends. How the bullying effected Holden wasn't something that could just be wiped clean, but I liked the communication between them- as well as Holden speaking his peace- and how the two of them came to understand each other. I liked the growing connection and the way their relationship developed. It all felt relatable and understandable and I was happy for their happy ending. They were so sweet together and their chemistry was pretty hot. I also liked the supporting characters. 5 stars
October 1, 2025
Reece and Holden is part of the Gomillion High Reunion series.
We met Reece in the book Resisting the Urge from the Larchdown Valley series.
He is Mac's stepbrother and Nolan's business partner.
Reece returns to the United States after spending twenty years in the United Kingdom to attend his high school reunion. It's not all fun and games, though, as his goal is to make amends and apologize to Holden, whom he bullied in high school. I ended up crying over something Reece has kept for 20 years.
Good things come to those who wait, and this book is the perfect example. What couldn't be twenty years ago now has a chance to blossom.
Between cinnamon rolls and balls of yarn, their love may have a chance.
I loved it.
+I want to thank the author for the ARC. This is my voluntary and honest opinion +
We met Reece in the book Resisting the Urge from the Larchdown Valley series.
He is Mac's stepbrother and Nolan's business partner.
Reece returns to the United States after spending twenty years in the United Kingdom to attend his high school reunion. It's not all fun and games, though, as his goal is to make amends and apologize to Holden, whom he bullied in high school. I ended up crying over something Reece has kept for 20 years.
Good things come to those who wait, and this book is the perfect example. What couldn't be twenty years ago now has a chance to blossom.
Between cinnamon rolls and balls of yarn, their love may have a chance.
I loved it.
+I want to thank the author for the ARC. This is my voluntary and honest opinion +
October 9, 2025
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An emotional tale of understanding and forgiveness.
For Reece, Gomillion’s high school reunion is a chance to apologize to Holden for how horrible he was to him in their Senior year. He’s been living with the regret and shame for 20 years.
Holden wants to show he’s moved on, but his mixed emotions on Reece’s return are all over the place.
If forgiveness is going to be found, it won’t be easy. But if both sides are brave, and with the help of a couple of nights stranded in a motel together, they might just find something special!
I love that they had to work for a HEA - their journey was satisfying and beautiful.
An emotional tale of understanding and forgiveness.
For Reece, Gomillion’s high school reunion is a chance to apologize to Holden for how horrible he was to him in their Senior year. He’s been living with the regret and shame for 20 years.
Holden wants to show he’s moved on, but his mixed emotions on Reece’s return are all over the place.
If forgiveness is going to be found, it won’t be easy. But if both sides are brave, and with the help of a couple of nights stranded in a motel together, they might just find something special!
I love that they had to work for a HEA - their journey was satisfying and beautiful.
October 10, 2025
I love this premise of high school reunions and reconnecting with past loves as these books do, even thought each author goes a different path. In this one Reece and Holden where friends, till Reece life feel apart and he took it out (bullied) Holden. It takes a good author to write a bully redemption story for me as bully stories bring back back memories for me personally, but this author somehow gets me to buy in, understand and forgive as she does with these two. Reece who life town and spent last 20 years in England feels compelled to make up for his past behavior and mistakes to Holden. I love that Holden stayed in this small town, owns a yarn shop, and good life with friends, despite lingering feelings he has for Reece all these years later. A great read. I did receive an ARC and leave this honey review.
October 14, 2025
Reece & Holden
This book was incredibly sweet and fun to read. I always love Jem Wendel's characters And the uncomplicated storylines she gives them. There's some drama usually, but I love that there's no real antagonist, no real villain; and the characters are incredibly sweet with one another.
Though it wasn't really necessary to cover, I'd kind of hoped that we could have seen the moment when Reece and Holden found out their icebreaker tickets from the reunion had matching/corresponding words. Just one of those fun little tidbits that add another level to their fate.
Reece & Holden is the first I've read (so far) of the Gomillion High Reunion series, but it was a fantastic adventure and sweet bully-redemption romance. The pair are easy to see connected with one another, once they passed the regret and forgiveness stages. And I absolutely loved how their romance story concludes at the beginning of a whole new adventure for their lives.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This book was incredibly sweet and fun to read. I always love Jem Wendel's characters And the uncomplicated storylines she gives them. There's some drama usually, but I love that there's no real antagonist, no real villain; and the characters are incredibly sweet with one another.
Though it wasn't really necessary to cover, I'd kind of hoped that we could have seen the moment when Reece and Holden found out their icebreaker tickets from the reunion had matching/corresponding words. Just one of those fun little tidbits that add another level to their fate.
Reece & Holden is the first I've read (so far) of the Gomillion High Reunion series, but it was a fantastic adventure and sweet bully-redemption romance. The pair are easy to see connected with one another, once they passed the regret and forgiveness stages. And I absolutely loved how their romance story concludes at the beginning of a whole new adventure for their lives.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
October 14, 2025
I really enjoyed Reece and Holden, part of the Gomillion High Reunion series. It’s a heartfelt story about redemption, forgiveness, and second chances. Reece was a bully in high school and did real damage to Holden, who never truly got over it. Twenty years later, they meet again at their reunion, and slowly begin to unpack the past.
The way Reece tries to make amends, genuinely and with patience, felt believable, and Holden’s hesitation was completely understandable. Their journey from painful memories to an unexpected romance was emotional and satisfying. I loved the supporting characters too, especially how Reece’s chosen family helped him grow into someone worthy of Holden’s trust.
If you like enemies-to-lovers stories with real emotional depth and a focus on personal growth, this one’s well worth reading.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
The way Reece tries to make amends, genuinely and with patience, felt believable, and Holden’s hesitation was completely understandable. Their journey from painful memories to an unexpected romance was emotional and satisfying. I loved the supporting characters too, especially how Reece’s chosen family helped him grow into someone worthy of Holden’s trust.
If you like enemies-to-lovers stories with real emotional depth and a focus on personal growth, this one’s well worth reading.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
October 20, 2025
A SWEET SECOND CHANCE REDEMPTION STORY!💕
I love second chance love stories and when it’s a bully redemption then it’s really in my wheelhouse, as part of the multi author Gomilion High Reunion series !
I loved their story which was filled with anxiety, trepidation, self forgiveness and forgiveness!
“it's my chance to right my wrongs. Will he let me explain?
“will he accept my apology if I tell him the secret I’ve kept for twenty years?”
A school bully Reece Fisher gets his redemption at his high school 20 year reunion by Holden Pearce, but it was not easy…
Their story was sweet, poignant, funny and inspirational with a six month epilogue that will round off their journey beautifully!
Cameos from Larchdown characters will entertain and endear!
I voluntarily received an ARC from the author for an honest non biased review.
I love second chance love stories and when it’s a bully redemption then it’s really in my wheelhouse, as part of the multi author Gomilion High Reunion series !
I loved their story which was filled with anxiety, trepidation, self forgiveness and forgiveness!
“it's my chance to right my wrongs. Will he let me explain?
“will he accept my apology if I tell him the secret I’ve kept for twenty years?”
A school bully Reece Fisher gets his redemption at his high school 20 year reunion by Holden Pearce, but it was not easy…
Their story was sweet, poignant, funny and inspirational with a six month epilogue that will round off their journey beautifully!
Cameos from Larchdown characters will entertain and endear!
I voluntarily received an ARC from the author for an honest non biased review.
October 12, 2025
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
Pretty lovely, I really enjoyed Reese and Holden’s second chance romance. Twenty year high school reunion is such a fabulous idea, and this was my favorite of the series, so far. This is a bully redemption romance, I am a fan of this trope and really loved the author’s take. It stands out, I think, because the author doesn’t let the tone become too angry and melodramatic, but keeps both Reese and Holden grounded. There is pain and anger but I appreciate that it felt real and authentic, the focus more on redemption and forgiveness than anger and revenge. I also love that we get two really lovely and supportive moms for both Reese and Holden, and an excellent best friend support system in Clara. Excellent characters all around!
Pretty lovely, I really enjoyed Reese and Holden’s second chance romance. Twenty year high school reunion is such a fabulous idea, and this was my favorite of the series, so far. This is a bully redemption romance, I am a fan of this trope and really loved the author’s take. It stands out, I think, because the author doesn’t let the tone become too angry and melodramatic, but keeps both Reese and Holden grounded. There is pain and anger but I appreciate that it felt real and authentic, the focus more on redemption and forgiveness than anger and revenge. I also love that we get two really lovely and supportive moms for both Reese and Holden, and an excellent best friend support system in Clara. Excellent characters all around!
October 2, 2025
I love a good second chance romance. I am not a fan of “Bully” books as a general rule, but I love a really well written second chance story. One where someone realizes how much they screwed up at one point and try to do better. This story fits that bill to a tee. Reece knows he was horrible his senior year of high school and just hopes Holden will listen long enough to let him apologize. Holden makes him work for it, as he should. Reece did some damage to Holden that took him years and therapy to overcome. Both men still have all kinds of feelings and they made me experience them too. Such a good book! I was rooting for them by the end.
October 6, 2025
This is the fifth book I’ve read from this multi author series called Gormillion High Reunion which is based around a twenty year high school reunion, this is Reece and Holden’s story and back in high school Reece bullied Holden terribly but he has changed and goes to the reunion to try to apologise but Holden doesn’t accept it easily but after a second trip back for Reece they talk and realise they both had feelings for each other but Reece lives in England and has a business and family there and Holden’s is in America but after a surprise trip and with help from family and friends they get their Hea.
October 9, 2025
3.5 stars i was selected for an arc for this book it was a second chance bully romance. Our main characters Reece was the bully and he used to bully Holden our other main character until Reece left for London and realized that what he did was wrong and has been making amends for the past 20 years. Holden has never forgotten about Reece and what he did to him but now he’s an owner of a yarn shop in his small town and they reunite because of the class reunion. This was a cute read i usually don’t like bully romances but it wasn’t as bad as a lot of other books with this trope in it and I’m glad that Reece actually redeemed himself
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2025
What an awful way to finish your high school experience.
So much pressure to conform to your father's beliefs.
The regrets that are a burden for decades.
The relief of apologies that are accepted.
Time can heal old wounds.
New perspectives help in the healing process.
Understanding lays the foundation for a future that promises love and understanding.
A little yarn goes a long way to wrap two hearts into a committed relationship.
This doesn't feel like a 'second-chance' romance because they never really had a first-chance, but the romance is true in the end.
A sweet look at what can be built after years of pain and heartache.
Thanks to GRR and Jem for this emotional ARC.
So much pressure to conform to your father's beliefs.
The regrets that are a burden for decades.
The relief of apologies that are accepted.
Time can heal old wounds.
New perspectives help in the healing process.
Understanding lays the foundation for a future that promises love and understanding.
A little yarn goes a long way to wrap two hearts into a committed relationship.
This doesn't feel like a 'second-chance' romance because they never really had a first-chance, but the romance is true in the end.
A sweet look at what can be built after years of pain and heartache.
Thanks to GRR and Jem for this emotional ARC.
October 18, 2025
The time Reece and Holden spent at Gomillion High School has cast long shadows on their lives. Reece is living with guilt for bullying , Holden, the boy he secretly had a crush on. Holden has spent his adult life learning how to deal with the anxiety that the bullying caused. The only reason Reece accepts the invitation to the reunion is to try to make amends with Holden. I did appreciate that while the apologies that were offered were sincere, it took awhile for Holden to take the chance to open up to Reece. I enjoyed seeing Reece reconnect with his home town and Holden finally getting the chance to stretch beyond its borders
September 27, 2025
I absolutely love this book. I devoured it. Reece and Holden’s history is rough but the redemption is so beautiful to watch. I loved how Holden stood his ground and didn’t back down even when he was both scared and anxious. Reece being so determined to apologize and make things right showed just how much he had grown since high school. I love how supportive Reece is of Holden’s dreams and how much he was willing to give up to help Holden make them come true. Im excited to see more of them in future books of Jem’s. I also cant wait for the rest of the Gomillion series.
September 29, 2025
So far, this book is my favorite in the series right next to Finn and Brad. 💕 It’s the perfect example of “good things take time.”
Reece and Holden have that classic enemies-to-lovers, bully romance dynamic — and I am so here for it. 👀 Let’s just say… Reece was a total asshole to Holden back in school, and now, 20 years later, he just wants to make things right. The problem? He didn’t realize how deeply he hurt Holden back then.
And even though it’s more of a slow-burn, I really enjoyed this story so much. 🥹
Reece and Holden have that classic enemies-to-lovers, bully romance dynamic — and I am so here for it. 👀 Let’s just say… Reece was a total asshole to Holden back in school, and now, 20 years later, he just wants to make things right. The problem? He didn’t realize how deeply he hurt Holden back then.
And even though it’s more of a slow-burn, I really enjoyed this story so much. 🥹
October 4, 2025
A bully redemption story with knitting!!
This was my first book in the Gomillion Reunion series but it won’t be my last.
Reece and Holden are adorable in their love for each other and their insecurities. While Reece tries to immediately take responsibility for his actions 20 years ago, I appreciate that Holden doesn’t just give in on the first apology. He really makes Reece work for it and prove that he means it.
Overall this is a cute love story.
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews and Jem Wendel for the advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
3.5 ⭐️
This was my first book in the Gomillion Reunion series but it won’t be my last.
Reece and Holden are adorable in their love for each other and their insecurities. While Reece tries to immediately take responsibility for his actions 20 years ago, I appreciate that Holden doesn’t just give in on the first apology. He really makes Reece work for it and prove that he means it.
Overall this is a cute love story.
Thank you to Gay Romance Reviews and Jem Wendel for the advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
3.5 ⭐️
October 6, 2025
This is a bully redemption story within the world of the Gomillion High Reunion.
Jem Wendel gives us a well written story of redemption to love. That when you are able to live authentically then you can move forward in your life.
Bully stories are quite low on my totem pole of tropes but Jem balances the past with the present and their future. This should definitely be a fun story and there are so many great authors involved.
I received a free advanced copy from the author and I am leaving an honest review.
Jem Wendel gives us a well written story of redemption to love. That when you are able to live authentically then you can move forward in your life.
Bully stories are quite low on my totem pole of tropes but Jem balances the past with the present and their future. This should definitely be a fun story and there are so many great authors involved.
I received a free advanced copy from the author and I am leaving an honest review.
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