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The One With The Secret Crushes: A Small Town Romance
A new small town romance series from USA Today Bestselling Author, Alexis Anne…
How do you get two crazy, stubborn, (wildly in love and in denial) kids (adults) together?
Have the meddling small town book club set them up on a surprise blind date!
When Mackenzie Howard moved home after a decade away, she hoped her former high school best friend (and secret crush), Scott Shaw, would finally see her as much more than friends. Instead, he didn't recognize her at all and she's spent the last six months avoiding another mortifying run-in, which is hard to do in a small town like Lost Creek.
Grouchy bar owner Scott Shaw is tired of waiting for the right time and place to confess he's head over heels in love with Mackenzie. But ever since returning to Lost Creek, she's avoided him at all costs and he doesn't know why.
The book club is ready to meddle. While Mackenzie mistakenly believes no one knows about her feelings for Scott, and Scott thinks he's kept his crush mostly under wraps, the entire town of Lost Creek is well aware that they are destined to be together and helps the book club trap them on a surprise blind date.
Now with Mackenzie's full attention (finally), Scott sets out to romance the pants off her (literally, hopefully) and prove that not only does he remember everything about their friendship, about her, but the only relationship he wants going forward, is forever.
How do you get two crazy, stubborn, (wildly in love and in denial) kids (adults) together?
Have the meddling small town book club set them up on a surprise blind date!
When Mackenzie Howard moved home after a decade away, she hoped her former high school best friend (and secret crush), Scott Shaw, would finally see her as much more than friends. Instead, he didn't recognize her at all and she's spent the last six months avoiding another mortifying run-in, which is hard to do in a small town like Lost Creek.
Grouchy bar owner Scott Shaw is tired of waiting for the right time and place to confess he's head over heels in love with Mackenzie. But ever since returning to Lost Creek, she's avoided him at all costs and he doesn't know why.
The book club is ready to meddle. While Mackenzie mistakenly believes no one knows about her feelings for Scott, and Scott thinks he's kept his crush mostly under wraps, the entire town of Lost Creek is well aware that they are destined to be together and helps the book club trap them on a surprise blind date.
Now with Mackenzie's full attention (finally), Scott sets out to romance the pants off her (literally, hopefully) and prove that not only does he remember everything about their friendship, about her, but the only relationship he wants going forward, is forever.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2025
88 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Alexis Anne
79 books560 followersAlexis Anne writes page-turning romances that will leave you breathless and wanting for another happily ever after. Her new book KING OF WANDS is available now!
Fast. Volatile. Gorgeous.
Those are the words they used to describe Kingston Reynolds on the first day of my internship. Well, it wasn’t so much of a description as it was a warning. Do not fraternize with the drivers if you want to keep your job.
“My very first Alexis Anne book and now I'm wondering what I've been waiting for. It was a real page turner!! Gripping, edgy and very exciting.” --Tish Cocktails and Fairytales
Website: https://alexisannebooks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlexisAnneBo...
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Fast. Volatile. Gorgeous.
Those are the words they used to describe Kingston Reynolds on the first day of my internship. Well, it wasn’t so much of a description as it was a warning. Do not fraternize with the drivers if you want to keep your job.
“My very first Alexis Anne book and now I'm wondering what I've been waiting for. It was a real page turner!! Gripping, edgy and very exciting.” --Tish Cocktails and Fairytales
Website: https://alexisannebooks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlexisAnneBo...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexisannea...
Newsletter: www.alexisannebooks.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 19, 2025
The One with the Secret Crushes is the first novella in the new, Lost Creek series. A series of small town stories where everyone knows each other and what they’re doing.
Mackenzie is devastated when she comes back home to Lost Creek, and Scottie Shaw doesn’t seem to recognize her. Best friends all through high school, everyone knows they had deeper feelings for each other but neither acted on them. Now that Mackenzie is back, the whole town comes together to play matchmaker. She doesn’t understand why if he doesn’t even remember who she is.
Cute story of small town life, complete with well-meaning busybodies and friends like family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mackenzie is devastated when she comes back home to Lost Creek, and Scottie Shaw doesn’t seem to recognize her. Best friends all through high school, everyone knows they had deeper feelings for each other but neither acted on them. Now that Mackenzie is back, the whole town comes together to play matchmaker. She doesn’t understand why if he doesn’t even remember who she is.
Cute story of small town life, complete with well-meaning busybodies and friends like family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2026
Mackenzie Howard had been gone for ten years, first for college, then for a while seeing the world. Unfortunately, she had arrived home because her dad was dying, and then he passed away. But here’s the 411 that everyone else in Lost Creek beyond a shadow of a doubt, but Mackenzie and Scott Shaw never had put together about each other. That their four years of deep and unwavering friendship were actually a crush that had turned into love. But after ten years and no contact, they thought the other had forgotten about them.
Plus, she thought that since Scott had never taken their friendship any further, she was just the poor girl he felt sorry for because her mom had died. Then, when she came home six months ago, she saw him at one of the stores she so wanted, once again for him to see her as a woman finally, but when she blinked, he was going out the back door. Therefore, she deduced that he didn't recognize her at all. So all those years she hung onto the hope that when she finally ran into Scott again, he'd see her as a woman.
What he doesn’t know is that there were circumstances that kept him from approaching her that day, but he very much saw her. But it never failed to allude him that she avoided him and even eye contact with him. He wanted to approach her, but had been racking his brain trying to figure out what he had done to her to make her hate him. He even wanted to approach her at her dad’s funeral, but didn't want to upset her more. However, her best friend, Joanne, and Aunt Sharon felt that they had given her ample time to grieve, after her father had passed.
Allowing her to pour herself into building up the family business which she does. But now she was just becoming a hermit. So the women decided they were getting her out for lunch at least, but then sprung on her that she would be joining the book club. That is hosted at Scott’s bar. Scott is tired of waiting for the right time and place to confess he's head over heels in love with Mackenzie. But ever since returning to Lost Creek, she's avoided him at all costs. And he doesn't know why.
So he is all for it and well aware that the town is rooting for them, and that they are destined to be together. He is willing to help the book club trap them on a surprise blind date. With Mackenzie's attention finally set on him, Scott sets out to romance her beyond belief and prove that not only does he remember everything about their friendship, everything about her, but the only relationship he wants going forward, is her forever. See if he gets his wish. This was such an engaging story. Short, sweet, and predictable, but still worth reading.
Plus, she thought that since Scott had never taken their friendship any further, she was just the poor girl he felt sorry for because her mom had died. Then, when she came home six months ago, she saw him at one of the stores she so wanted, once again for him to see her as a woman finally, but when she blinked, he was going out the back door. Therefore, she deduced that he didn't recognize her at all. So all those years she hung onto the hope that when she finally ran into Scott again, he'd see her as a woman.
What he doesn’t know is that there were circumstances that kept him from approaching her that day, but he very much saw her. But it never failed to allude him that she avoided him and even eye contact with him. He wanted to approach her, but had been racking his brain trying to figure out what he had done to her to make her hate him. He even wanted to approach her at her dad’s funeral, but didn't want to upset her more. However, her best friend, Joanne, and Aunt Sharon felt that they had given her ample time to grieve, after her father had passed.
Allowing her to pour herself into building up the family business which she does. But now she was just becoming a hermit. So the women decided they were getting her out for lunch at least, but then sprung on her that she would be joining the book club. That is hosted at Scott’s bar. Scott is tired of waiting for the right time and place to confess he's head over heels in love with Mackenzie. But ever since returning to Lost Creek, she's avoided him at all costs. And he doesn't know why.
So he is all for it and well aware that the town is rooting for them, and that they are destined to be together. He is willing to help the book club trap them on a surprise blind date. With Mackenzie's attention finally set on him, Scott sets out to romance her beyond belief and prove that not only does he remember everything about their friendship, everything about her, but the only relationship he wants going forward, is her forever. See if he gets his wish. This was such an engaging story. Short, sweet, and predictable, but still worth reading.
June 14, 2025
This is book one in The Lost Creek series and it is Mackenzie and Scott’s story and what a great start to a new series. Mackenzie and Scott have history because at one time they used to be best friends in high school and now she is back in Lost Creek to take over the family business after the death of her father. When Mackenzie sees Scott for the first time after a few years apart he doesn’t seem to recognise her so she now tries to keep her distance so that it doesn’t cause any complications which is difficult in a small town. Scott owns and runs the bar in Lost Creek and even though he always comes across as grumpy it hasn’t stopped him being in love with Mackenzie but now she is back she seems to be avoiding him and he doesn’t know why but determined to still find out what happened to make her keep her distance. The towns book club can see how Mackenzie and Scott feel about each other and getting so frustrated so they decide to step in and help them a little bit and also giving them a push in the right direction and get them together so that they can realise that they are meant to be together but will it work or back fire on them all. What happens when Mackenzie and Scott start to talk and realise how they feel about each other and also what happened before between them was just a misunderstanding, will it all work out and give them the happiness and future together that they always wanted and deserved, only time will tell what the outcome will be for them in the end. Mackenzie and Scott have a really strong attraction and chemistry and they are so perfect together and for each other in every single way and even though they had a tricky start they still have something so special together that stood the test of time. I absolutely loved this book and I couldn’t put it down and ended up reading it in one sitting because it was so addictive and kept my attention throughout. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
June 29, 2025
The One With The Secret Crush has charm, some suspense and is a page turning small town romance. The story is beautifully written, exceptionally balanced and phenomenally executed by Alexis Anne. This is my first novel I’ve read by this author and was blown away by the storyline. This novel contains a marvelous plot, wonderful characters and a breathtaking ending for the main characters. The characters are fabulously written and beautifully executed throughout the story. The main characters of this story are Mackenzie and Scott. The chemistry between these two characters is undeniably irresistible to the point where neither one of them could no longer ignore the feelings they have for one another. I loved getting to know both Mackenzie and Scott as well as seeing their feelings for one another grow stronger as their story progresses forward through the pages of this book. This book is certainly one that would be given as a recommendation for anyone to checkout and give it a read. I’m definitely going to be checking out more of this author’s work in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2025
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A charming novella that hits all the cozy small-town romance beats: grumpy guy, sunshine girl, and a long-standing crush finally getting its moment.
It’s a friends-to-lovers story with a history, these two clearly loved each other back in school but drifted apart. When she returns to their hometown, everyone around them starts scheming to push them together, which honestly just adds to the fun. The meddling townsfolk, the tension, the sweetness it’s all very, very cute.
I really liked the connection between the main characters; their bond felt genuine and heartfelt. That said, the pacing was a bit too fast for me. Their reconnection and romantic progression happened quickly but since this is a novella, I understood the limited space and still enjoyed the ride.
If you're looking for a quick, heartwarming story with plenty of cuteness and second-chance vibes, this one’s a lovely pick.
A charming novella that hits all the cozy small-town romance beats: grumpy guy, sunshine girl, and a long-standing crush finally getting its moment.
It’s a friends-to-lovers story with a history, these two clearly loved each other back in school but drifted apart. When she returns to their hometown, everyone around them starts scheming to push them together, which honestly just adds to the fun. The meddling townsfolk, the tension, the sweetness it’s all very, very cute.
I really liked the connection between the main characters; their bond felt genuine and heartfelt. That said, the pacing was a bit too fast for me. Their reconnection and romantic progression happened quickly but since this is a novella, I understood the limited space and still enjoyed the ride.
If you're looking for a quick, heartwarming story with plenty of cuteness and second-chance vibes, this one’s a lovely pick.
June 16, 2025
“It would be like the river turning to fondue chocolate, but no one was allowed to dip their strawberries and bananas in it. Cruel.”
I loved this book! Oh my gosh. Mack and Scott both loving each other in secrecy of best friends. When Mack comes back after years away she’s devastated Scott doesn’t remember her in what turns out to be the biggest misunderstanding of the century. Once Scott got confirmation of an inkling Mack had feelings for him, there was no holding back. He knew Mack needed to catch up but there was no games no third act break up. He showed his cards- said where he stood and let life happen. There was some spice but mildly placed throughout. There were so many quotable moments and words. Definitely a must read!!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this book! Oh my gosh. Mack and Scott both loving each other in secrecy of best friends. When Mack comes back after years away she’s devastated Scott doesn’t remember her in what turns out to be the biggest misunderstanding of the century. Once Scott got confirmation of an inkling Mack had feelings for him, there was no holding back. He knew Mack needed to catch up but there was no games no third act break up. He showed his cards- said where he stood and let life happen. There was some spice but mildly placed throughout. There were so many quotable moments and words. Definitely a must read!!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 15, 2025
Mackenzie and Scott, the lead characters, were close friends in high school, with a massive crush on each other, though they never acted on it. Now, years later, Mackenzie has returned to town but she’s avoiding him. The whole town can see their attraction and compatibility and they’re determined to manifest a relationship!
This novella is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, small town, friends-to-lovers romantic comedy. I enjoyed the thread of a relationship that Scott and Mackenzie held dear. I enjoyed Scott’s quiet, patient devotion. I enjoyed Mackenzie’s more dramatic feelings. I laughed at the secondary character shenanigans. I’m looking forward to more in this setting.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This novella is dual POV, well written, and a sweet and steamy, small town, friends-to-lovers romantic comedy. I enjoyed the thread of a relationship that Scott and Mackenzie held dear. I enjoyed Scott’s quiet, patient devotion. I enjoyed Mackenzie’s more dramatic feelings. I laughed at the secondary character shenanigans. I’m looking forward to more in this setting.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 18, 2025
All around sweet, cozy, misunderstandings-kept-us-apart romance. Scott and Mackenzie are both wonderful characters, super likable, perfectly suited for each other. The supporting characters are all well written, too. I’m really looking forward to Huc’s story next!
*** Recommended ***
HEA/Cliffhanger:
* HEA
Series:
* Book 1 of Lost Creek
MMC:
* Scott
FMC:
* Mackenzie
Tropes:
* Small Town Romance
* Secret Crush
* Friends to Lovers
* MF
Triggers:
* 18+
* Sex
* Language
Burn Speed:
* Slow
Spice Level:
* 🌶️🌶️ 1/2.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*** Recommended ***
HEA/Cliffhanger:
* HEA
Series:
* Book 1 of Lost Creek
MMC:
* Scott
FMC:
* Mackenzie
Tropes:
* Small Town Romance
* Secret Crush
* Friends to Lovers
* MF
Triggers:
* 18+
* Sex
* Language
Burn Speed:
* Slow
Spice Level:
* 🌶️🌶️ 1/2.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2025
I loved stepping into the small town of Lost Creek and meeting all the quirky characters that will make this series an entertaining read. Romance is in the air for one group of folks that will take some by surprise. Scott and Mackenzie have always been friends but now they aren't even that. Mackenzie moved back to town six months ago and one misread encounter makes this small town feel even smaller. Everyone rallies together to help make the obvious a reality. A great start to a new series and i look forward to returning to Lost Creek soon. Enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2025
Mackenzie and Scott were best friends growing up and had secretly crushed on each other for years, but they never acted on their feelings. Mack is back in their hometown after years away and is heartbroken when Scott doesn't know who she is. But there's no need to worry because the small town book club takes it upon themselves to play matchmaker. I loved how the author gets the whole town involved in Mack and Scott's journey of love. This is a heartwarming, small town romance with believable characters, a sweet storyline, and a happily ever after. The One With The Secret Crushes is book one and a great start to the Lost Creek series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
June 17, 2025
This is a sweet and shorter story of Scott and Mackenzie who have each had crushes on one another since high school, but believe the other doesn't feel the same and that their crushes are secret. The only ones their crush seems to be a secret from is one another. When Mackenzie moves back after year away, the who town works together to get the two to finally see what's right in front of their eyes. Will they finally see how the other feels so they can find their HEA? Lots of friends, family, love, and a HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2025
Crushes in a small town are never secret
The One With The Secret Crushes is the first book in the Lost Creek series. I quite enjoyed this entertaining story about Mackenzie Howard and Scott Shaw. These two are none too secret except to each other. They have crushed hard on each other since they were in high school, with neither crossing the line because they did not believe the other felt the same way. But when MacKenzie moves back home it will take the town to get her and grouchy bar owner Scott to finally wake up and go for what they both want...a forever together.
The One With The Secret Crushes is the first book in the Lost Creek series. I quite enjoyed this entertaining story about Mackenzie Howard and Scott Shaw. These two are none too secret except to each other. They have crushed hard on each other since they were in high school, with neither crossing the line because they did not believe the other felt the same way. But when MacKenzie moves back home it will take the town to get her and grouchy bar owner Scott to finally wake up and go for what they both want...a forever together.
June 13, 2025
Mackenzie and Scott were high school friends then she left for several years only to return and he does not recognize her so for the next several months she avoids him. The wacky book club members step in to try to get them together again knowing they both have feelings for each other plus they are both miserable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2025
Oh my gosh! Sweet and spicy and simply so much fun. From a whole bunch of misunderstandings and miss-communications to full steam ahead, Mackenzie and Scott were adorable together. They also have the best, most devious supporting cast I think I’ve met in a while. Which means I'm quickly falling in love with the entirety of Lost Creek and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
July 4, 2025
I love second chance romances and this is so good. Scott and Mackenzie were friends in High School but left for college and life beyond that. She returns home and they reconnect. They finally tell each other how they feel and it is such a cute love story. I highly recommend this book to all second chance romance readers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2025
I loved the small town and everyone in their business. It was a quick funny romance with the perfect build up. Scott and Mackenzie were both caring and you couldn't help but root for their chance. When they finally got together it was fireworks. A fast read that gives you that feel good romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2025
Naked Reading Time 4 ½ stars - Mackenzie and Scott’s love story is years in the making. With a nudge from the book club busybodies, it’s finally happening. It’s a good romantic story complete with entertaining supporting characters. I received an advanced copy and voluntarily chose to review it.
June 16, 2025
This book is the first story in the Lost Creek Series.
Although a quick read, the author delivered a sometimes frustrating look at two people, Mackenzie and Scottie, who once again cross paths.
One would think that prior best friends in this small town would find to rekindle the once upon a time feelings.
Lost Creek has all the busy bodies and this one is no exception.
I loved this book!!!!
Although a quick read, the author delivered a sometimes frustrating look at two people, Mackenzie and Scottie, who once again cross paths.
One would think that prior best friends in this small town would find to rekindle the once upon a time feelings.
Lost Creek has all the busy bodies and this one is no exception.
I loved this book!!!!
June 17, 2025
This novel was such a cute and relaxing page turner! The dynamic and chemistry between Scott and MacKenzie was fire! Being a first read of the series as well as first book I have read from the author, it definitely hit my small town love trope as well as the meddlesome serial killer book club! Her aunt is hilarious and I need more from the group!.
June 16, 2025
An enjoyable read with wonderful characters and a relatable, engaging storyline. I loved the emotionally charged scenes. I loved how everything came together beautifully. A satisfying and entertaining story.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2025
Nice book with a good storyline and interesting characters. An enjoyable and entertaining read. Looking forward to the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2025
Sweet and lovely small town second chance romance between Mackenzie and Scott. I really loved their story and i love that they finally got to admit how they really feel. Really funny and sweet in parts and just all in all a good read.
July 4, 2025
Funny,relaxing and very entertaining.
It’s a short read just long enough to bring the smile on your face.
Small town romance and all that stuff that makes you wish you could live there.
Enjoy reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It’s a short read just long enough to bring the smile on your face.
Small town romance and all that stuff that makes you wish you could live there.
Enjoy reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 16, 2025
Crushing…
This is a novella about two friends who have secret crushes on each other. Mackenzie is home after a decade away. She’s crushed on Scott. Scott crushed on Mackenzie but these two can’t fess up. The whole town is in on their not so secret crushes.
Recommend.
This is a novella about two friends who have secret crushes on each other. Mackenzie is home after a decade away. She’s crushed on Scott. Scott crushed on Mackenzie but these two can’t fess up. The whole town is in on their not so secret crushes.
Recommend.
June 17, 2025
Mackenzie & Scott
I loved that they have such a history together. these two were amazing and intense. Im glad they got a second chance
I loved that they have such a history together. these two were amazing and intense. Im glad they got a second chance
June 20, 2025
This was a short read. There is a small town feel of other people meddling in your life. The progression of their romance seemed expected. 3.5 stars
July 16, 2025
Lastima que sea tan corto.
February 17, 2026
Super cute- love the premise even though it seems unrealistic. It’s what every romantic hopes for.
February 18, 2026
Two and a Half Stars - I liked that the H & h admitted their attraction to each other early on, but the book felt flat after they got together.
June 30, 2025
When Mackenzie comes back home after spending years of studying and traveling, she is devastated that her old best friend and high school crush doesn’t recognize her so she keeps avoiding him like the plaque. Scottie doesn’t understand why the girl he has always dreamed of keeps hiding from him and when some meddling friends help give them the needed push they need things start to come to light and push them along. When they figure out the misunderstanding Scottie is all in, now he just has to show Mackenzie how great they could be together. This was a quick read but it was so hot that I devoured it quickly and want more. More of the town, more of the characters, I just want more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews