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It Happened Back Then
Blossom Nilsson
At sixteen, Bennett Hayes promised me forever with a vow that we would find each other in ten years if life pulled us apart. But life did more than that, it shattered me. Now he’s back, a man instead of the boy I loved, and everything I buried resurfaces including the secret I’ve been keeping, and the girlfriend he left behind.
I’ve always loved him, but can we move past what broke us to build something new?
Bennett Hayes
Blossom Nilsson was my first love, my best friend, my everything. At sixteen we made a vow that regardless of what life handed us, we’d find our way back to each other. After years of her pushing me away I had to accept that long distance wasn’t going to work, but now I’m back with a new job, a broken heart and feelings that never faded. But what happens if this second chance pushes me away for good this time?
In a town where everyone knows your story, coming home means more than just starting over. It’s about getting over what 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣, and rewriting stories with a new meaning of home and most importantly, love.
A heartfelt, emotional small-town romance about first love, second chances, and finding your way back home.
First love
Second chance
Small town
**Please check trigger warnings
At sixteen, Bennett Hayes promised me forever with a vow that we would find each other in ten years if life pulled us apart. But life did more than that, it shattered me. Now he’s back, a man instead of the boy I loved, and everything I buried resurfaces including the secret I’ve been keeping, and the girlfriend he left behind.
I’ve always loved him, but can we move past what broke us to build something new?
Bennett Hayes
Blossom Nilsson was my first love, my best friend, my everything. At sixteen we made a vow that regardless of what life handed us, we’d find our way back to each other. After years of her pushing me away I had to accept that long distance wasn’t going to work, but now I’m back with a new job, a broken heart and feelings that never faded. But what happens if this second chance pushes me away for good this time?
In a town where everyone knows your story, coming home means more than just starting over. It’s about getting over what 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣, and rewriting stories with a new meaning of home and most importantly, love.
A heartfelt, emotional small-town romance about first love, second chances, and finding your way back home.
First love
Second chance
Small town
**Please check trigger warnings
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 30, 2025
That’s it?
I appreciate the writing but the story progression and characters were not for me. The climax and resolution was madly rushed. The secret reveal and confrontation was so anticlimactic. It felt almost slapped on. Like it was already nearing the end so things needed to be wrapped up with no care how it would be done.
I don’t think the MCs even went through any sort of character development. Blossom remained infuriatingly timid and passive about everything that happened to her. It sucked that Bennett was caught up in all her wishy-washiness, and for a while there I actually was rooting for him to move on and do bigger and better things in France.
Bennett’s dad doing what he did seemed so out of character. He had known Blossom since she was a kid and out of nowhere he gets it in his head that she’s a gold digger using his son as a meal ticket when she has never had a single history even showing that she was one? How he acted was disgusting especially after everything that happened to her. He didn’t even apologize to her and continued to push for his son to find a better woman even after coming back to Bluemoon. Bennett had to confront him about his actions and even then he didn’t seem remorseful at all. In the end, Blossom getting surprise pregnant really does seem like a Hail Mary pass to get them back together again and a bandaid to their much larger glaring issues, so their HEA is more like a HFN.
It seems like Blossom took the brunt of the aftermath of the Nilsson patriarch’s passing whilst her siblings just lived their lives blissfully. I don’t know her story, but January especially was a terrible sister. The fact that there was no room for anything else but her shallow wedding? Truly a selfish woman. After reading what’s she’s like in this book I really don’t care to know her story at all.
I appreciate the writing but the story progression and characters were not for me. The climax and resolution was madly rushed. The secret reveal and confrontation was so anticlimactic. It felt almost slapped on. Like it was already nearing the end so things needed to be wrapped up with no care how it would be done.
I don’t think the MCs even went through any sort of character development. Blossom remained infuriatingly timid and passive about everything that happened to her. It sucked that Bennett was caught up in all her wishy-washiness, and for a while there I actually was rooting for him to move on and do bigger and better things in France.
Bennett’s dad doing what he did seemed so out of character. He had known Blossom since she was a kid and out of nowhere he gets it in his head that she’s a gold digger using his son as a meal ticket when she has never had a single history even showing that she was one? How he acted was disgusting especially after everything that happened to her. He didn’t even apologize to her and continued to push for his son to find a better woman even after coming back to Bluemoon. Bennett had to confront him about his actions and even then he didn’t seem remorseful at all. In the end, Blossom getting surprise pregnant really does seem like a Hail Mary pass to get them back together again and a bandaid to their much larger glaring issues, so their HEA is more like a HFN.
It seems like Blossom took the brunt of the aftermath of the Nilsson patriarch’s passing whilst her siblings just lived their lives blissfully. I don’t know her story, but January especially was a terrible sister. The fact that there was no room for anything else but her shallow wedding? Truly a selfish woman. After reading what’s she’s like in this book I really don’t care to know her story at all.
August 1, 2025
ohhh boy were these two frustrating. I think the hardest part was that the characters were 26 but acted like 19 year old kids.
I understood that Blossom had her reasons for not being truthful with Bennett. She had a male figure that she cared for her whole life tell her that she wasn't good enough for his son and that she was using the baby, that she wasn't aware she had, to trap him in their small town. I understand that this caused her to make Bennett live his life and choose to come back for her of his own desire. BUT HE DID THAT AND SHE STILL DIDN'T ACT ON HER LOVE FOR HIM!! Bennett came back and was ready to take the job they both dreamed he would have and was ready for her, but she didnt grab it. She let him go and walk back to his Ex.
While on the topic, Bennett's Ex Savannah was an ass. I think the addition of her made me more upset with Bennett than I should have been. I think my biggest issue is that he swore he loved Blossom for his whole life but still went back to a woman, MILTIPLE TIMES, in the 10 years they were apart. If you didnt care for this other woman, you wouldn't go back to her. Unless he was only in it for Sex. I mean, before that bomb Blossom drops on him in the end, he even contemplated going back to her because being with her was "easy".
Blossom's sister Meadow saved this story for me. Her one liners and relationship with Cole had me more interested in them over Blossom and Bennett. I would definitely read their story.
I understood that Blossom had her reasons for not being truthful with Bennett. She had a male figure that she cared for her whole life tell her that she wasn't good enough for his son and that she was using the baby, that she wasn't aware she had, to trap him in their small town. I understand that this caused her to make Bennett live his life and choose to come back for her of his own desire. BUT HE DID THAT AND SHE STILL DIDN'T ACT ON HER LOVE FOR HIM!! Bennett came back and was ready to take the job they both dreamed he would have and was ready for her, but she didnt grab it. She let him go and walk back to his Ex.
While on the topic, Bennett's Ex Savannah was an ass. I think the addition of her made me more upset with Bennett than I should have been. I think my biggest issue is that he swore he loved Blossom for his whole life but still went back to a woman, MILTIPLE TIMES, in the 10 years they were apart. If you didnt care for this other woman, you wouldn't go back to her. Unless he was only in it for Sex. I mean, before that bomb Blossom drops on him in the end, he even contemplated going back to her because being with her was "easy".
Blossom's sister Meadow saved this story for me. Her one liners and relationship with Cole had me more interested in them over Blossom and Bennett. I would definitely read their story.
July 31, 2025
Ekkk, I was so excited to read this story! Blossom and Bennet are your quintessential Childhood sweethearts in a small town who have eyes for no one else but each other. Or is there something else brewing?
Getting to know Nielson family has been wonderful. B n B play right in with everything. This story starts from when they are young to present day , and it's not all a bed of roses and rose tinted glasses.
The story weaves with pure love to pain to growth and acceptance. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. Carolina you did a fabulous job in getting these two fall in love. It was a joy reading them.
Getting to know Nielson family has been wonderful. B n B play right in with everything. This story starts from when they are young to present day , and it's not all a bed of roses and rose tinted glasses.
The story weaves with pure love to pain to growth and acceptance. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. Carolina you did a fabulous job in getting these two fall in love. It was a joy reading them.
August 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ It Happened Back Then is an emotional, heart-tugging second chance romance that swept me away from the very first page. Blossom and Bennett’s story is everything I love in a small-town romance—full of history, longing, heartbreak, and the kind of love that refuses to fade even after years apart.
Carolina Jax beautifully captures the bittersweet ache of first love and the hope that comes with second chances. Blossom’s strength and vulnerability made her such a relatable heroine, and Bennett was the perfect mix of determined, tender, and swoony. Their shared past, the secrets, and the push-and-pull tension kept me turning the pages late into the night.
What stood out most was how the author wove in themes of family, healing, and forgiveness. The small-town backdrop added charm (and plenty of drama!), making their journey feel both intimate and authentic.
If you enjoy heartfelt romances that combine small-town feels with deep emotional stakes and an unforgettable first-love reunion, this book will hit you right in the heart. I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the Nilsson Family series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Carolina Jax beautifully captures the bittersweet ache of first love and the hope that comes with second chances. Blossom’s strength and vulnerability made her such a relatable heroine, and Bennett was the perfect mix of determined, tender, and swoony. Their shared past, the secrets, and the push-and-pull tension kept me turning the pages late into the night.
What stood out most was how the author wove in themes of family, healing, and forgiveness. The small-town backdrop added charm (and plenty of drama!), making their journey feel both intimate and authentic.
If you enjoy heartfelt romances that combine small-town feels with deep emotional stakes and an unforgettable first-love reunion, this book will hit you right in the heart. I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the Nilsson Family series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2025
✨ It Happened Back Then is the kind of small town, second chance romance that sticks with you long after the last page. I absolutely fell in love with Blossom and Bennett and their chemistry, their history, and their emotional heartfelt journey.
Carolina Jax did a beautiful job capturing the push and pull of first love and the complexities of finding your way back to someone after years apart. The setting added such charm, and the emotional layers of these two MC’s gave it real depth. I was rooting for them the whole way through. And Carolina definitely delivered.
If you're a fan of emotional, character driven romances with small town vibes and second chances, this one’s a must read.
Carolina Jax did a beautiful job capturing the push and pull of first love and the complexities of finding your way back to someone after years apart. The setting added such charm, and the emotional layers of these two MC’s gave it real depth. I was rooting for them the whole way through. And Carolina definitely delivered.
If you're a fan of emotional, character driven romances with small town vibes and second chances, this one’s a must read.
October 31, 2025
Book Review
It Happened Back Then By Carolina Jax
Five Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This was one book that broke my heart and healed it at the same time. Blossom & Bennett were meant for each other from page one! The stuff that Blossom goes through and keeps a secret hurt so much to read. But every page that hurt to read there were more that healed my broken heart for Blossom! Bennett is such an amazing man even if he wouldn't do anything about Savannah! I can't wait to see if there will be more about these two & their ending!
It Happened Back Then By Carolina Jax
Five Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This was one book that broke my heart and healed it at the same time. Blossom & Bennett were meant for each other from page one! The stuff that Blossom goes through and keeps a secret hurt so much to read. But every page that hurt to read there were more that healed my broken heart for Blossom! Bennett is such an amazing man even if he wouldn't do anything about Savannah! I can't wait to see if there will be more about these two & their ending!
August 2, 2025
Phenomenal book and my favorite trope (childhood best friends to lovers) that had me heartbroken and swooning. Bennett and Blossom knew that they would be best friends forever, but for them to make it more than a friendship, now that took some time and a lot of heartache. Highly recommend this heartfelt story that was an emotional rollercoaster!
May 25, 2026
This is the 3rd book in the Nilsson family series and I loved it so much. I couldn’t put the book down. I’m excited for the next one.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 16, 2026
*swoon* Best Friends make the BEST lovers. I’ve been waiting for Blossom & Bennett’s story & truly adored it!
March 6, 2026
Good lawd, these MCs were painful. (Possible spoilers ahead)
I seriously wanted to shake these characters.
So..basically the MCs were BFFs since they were children. At 16, they started a secret, smexual relationship (it’s closed door). At 18, H left for college. They entered a long distance relationship, but not really, because he was soon with another woman, Savannah. 🤷♀️ At 19, H bought Savannah to his hometown and h met her. H and h were “just friends” by then. Their POVs were all about each other, though.
I guess H quit coming home, and was enjoying life with Savannah in Seattle.
All H’s POVs prove he was emotionally cheating on BOTH these women over the years.
Then at 26, H comes home. He’s now a chef. Savannah and H have broken up. From his POV, we know he has come home to try a relationship with h. BUT, within a week or two, Savannah comes to town. 🥴
h is so…..annoying. She’s extremely passive and she won’t tell H anything. H is also annoying and his POV, mostly about Savannah, was just yuck. I wanted to scream at him to pick one or the other because it was like he couldn’t decide which one he wanted to be with.
Anyway, the big secret h kept from H throughout most of the book was- she got pregnant right before H left for college. H’s dad found out and basically told her she wasn’t good enough for his son. After H left, h lost the baby.
⛔️ This conflict made ZERO sense considering h was always close with H’s parents.
H and h start to have smex.
So there is another oops pregnancy. There was something like a 3rd act breakup except they were not really together. He was still conflicted about Savannah.
Yeah, we knew from his POV he loved h and just wanted h to tell him she wanted to be with him. But he would also backtrack in his own mind and wonder if he should just stay with Savannah. It was so confusing. He’s saying he loves h, yet he’s eating dinner with Savannah and letting her hang all over him. He’s totally okay with the fact Savannah rented a cabin for 6 months 😱 to be near him. Then he wonders why h acts so distant with him. 🥴🥴🥴
When h finally talks to H, she’s like “are you really sure you want to be with me because you still haven’t let Savannah go?”
Truthfully, h was right. So H *finally* tells Savannah he’s not interested in her anymore and he wants to be with h. 🤦♀️ Was that so hard? JFC grow up.
The conflict with H’s dad is never resolved. H confronts his dad and dad is all like 🤷♀️.
h is the very definition of a doormat or strange robot. Her one sister was okay, but her other sister- eek. I hated her. Her name was January, which was already a huge point against her.
I seriously wanted to shake these characters.
So..basically the MCs were BFFs since they were children. At 16, they started a secret, smexual relationship (it’s closed door). At 18, H left for college. They entered a long distance relationship, but not really, because he was soon with another woman, Savannah. 🤷♀️ At 19, H bought Savannah to his hometown and h met her. H and h were “just friends” by then. Their POVs were all about each other, though.
I guess H quit coming home, and was enjoying life with Savannah in Seattle.
All H’s POVs prove he was emotionally cheating on BOTH these women over the years.
Then at 26, H comes home. He’s now a chef. Savannah and H have broken up. From his POV, we know he has come home to try a relationship with h. BUT, within a week or two, Savannah comes to town. 🥴
h is so…..annoying. She’s extremely passive and she won’t tell H anything. H is also annoying and his POV, mostly about Savannah, was just yuck. I wanted to scream at him to pick one or the other because it was like he couldn’t decide which one he wanted to be with.
Anyway, the big secret h kept from H throughout most of the book was- she got pregnant right before H left for college. H’s dad found out and basically told her she wasn’t good enough for his son. After H left, h lost the baby.
⛔️ This conflict made ZERO sense considering h was always close with H’s parents.
H and h start to have smex.
So there is another oops pregnancy. There was something like a 3rd act breakup except they were not really together. He was still conflicted about Savannah.
Yeah, we knew from his POV he loved h and just wanted h to tell him she wanted to be with him. But he would also backtrack in his own mind and wonder if he should just stay with Savannah. It was so confusing. He’s saying he loves h, yet he’s eating dinner with Savannah and letting her hang all over him. He’s totally okay with the fact Savannah rented a cabin for 6 months 😱 to be near him. Then he wonders why h acts so distant with him. 🥴🥴🥴
When h finally talks to H, she’s like “are you really sure you want to be with me because you still haven’t let Savannah go?”
Truthfully, h was right. So H *finally* tells Savannah he’s not interested in her anymore and he wants to be with h. 🤦♀️ Was that so hard? JFC grow up.
The conflict with H’s dad is never resolved. H confronts his dad and dad is all like 🤷♀️.
h is the very definition of a doormat or strange robot. Her one sister was okay, but her other sister- eek. I hated her. Her name was January, which was already a huge point against her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
Bennett Hayes has loved Blossom Nilsson from the moment he met her at 10. They were inseparable and each other's firsts. They made a pact to marry at 27 if they had not found anyone else. At 18, they were supposed to go to Seattle together, but Blossom changes her mind, hiding a secret from Bennet all throughout the years, insisting she wanted him to have a better life and future. He moves to Seattle, dates Savannah, yet still cant stop thinking of Blossom. Years later he moves back to Bluemoon, gets back with Blossom, and secrets spill with time that passes by. Does the secret break them, or make their relationship stronger?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2025
Oh my goodness Carolina Jax has me floored with awe and the true feeling of amour has my jaw hit the floor with this divine book that has deep rooted layers for one of the players. There’s no higher love than the one you let slide because you got secrets to hide . So friends it is though it hurts inside . This truly is ,one heck of a book . He loves her with his whole heart and can’t understand the just friends part . But see here is where it gets hazy because for Bennett, Blossom is crazy . She thinks that he’s not deserving of what she’d be serving with her family’s trauma and a secret she must keep ,this really makes her weep, but determined is she that though they must end ,he’d be remaining as her best friend.This decadently written beautiful story is one that will not only resonate but stay with you for a long time . Phew Carolina Jax , love all that you write ,they fill me with such delight and splendour but boy oh boy I feel like I’ve been put in the blender of love. Or at least been on a bender ! You know how it is ? Sated and pleased with an happy grin that everyone who sees you asks where’ve you been cos they want all the deets. Yep it’s that type of story that’s so much more than boy girl meets. It’s a real treat for all your senses and portrayed really well and with care . Discussing a love that started for them as early as age ten so doesn’t go there.. told with such flair and grace when their tender hearts are all over the place ,and one that continued to seeing each other just now and then remembering how he makes her feel but keeping it real . The other can’t quite forget how they met and fell in love and their’s was one that he cannot forego no matter where he does go. You know? Something always there at the back of his mind . A more forever in his heart friend he will not find . It was fated from the start and even as they will never be parted though it leaves him somewhat broken hearted in sorrow. Friends is better than nothing so he’ll happily give in through his chagrin and carry on through every tomorrow . Do they get their piece of heaven at age twenty seven as the yellowing crumpling paper oath says . Or was it just their salad days ….Top quotes : I want Blossom to see I made it and that I can take care of her. Swooning.🫠 “You done fingering that register? You’re going to owe it a drink soon.” So darn funny, I was gone with this one …Aplomb is how you wrote this book Carolina Jax ma’am ,or so it seems because I’d have been coming apart at the seams writing this . It’s absolutely blooming bliss, the chef’s kiss excuse the pun because of course the leading man Bennett Hayes is one. Their love blossomed ( I know I can’t help it) and grew from that little acorn when they were kids to what they have after all the heartache and pain time and again and their love they both miss but still refrain. I was rooting for them to get together and forget all the angst and to get their happy dance another final chance at a love like theirs that is pure and never demure . They know what their heart is for ,both of these players but when you think too much and build complicated layers ,it’s difficult to see what’s in front of your eyes . In your face ,nobody else can take the place of your one true love and that becomes plain to see when they’re in ecstasy and in each others arms but getting there isn’t the charm it was meant to be because of their complicated history. Brilliant story and the storytelling is a compelling one . Divine and bitter sweet and can’t be beat for flow . I had to keep reading this story through the end without an intermission because of the brilliant composition. I needed to know what was going on and for this I stayed up til half past one . I loved the characters and how their story was laid bare for their friends who were there from the start to share their stories and impart them too . Can’t wait for the next book in series . It’s going to be heaven in an hand cart and so full of heart.
August 4, 2025
We are back with the Nilsson family. Blossom is the youngest Nilsson. She and Bennett Hays have been best friends forever. He was there when her father passed away. He was there when Blossom's big sister and brother moved to New York. Blossom stayed at home in Bluemoon with her sister, Meadow, and her mother. They owned a shop, Dress Me Up, was their family's legacy. Blossom could not leave her family or the shop.
Bennett, on the other hand, was headed to Seattle to attend culinary school. With his parents pushing him to get out of Bluemoon and Blossom's 180-degree turn, he was determined to make Seattle work. Bennett and Blossom remained friends and even tried to date other people. Bennett even brought one girl home on a visit. Looks like are best friends were going to remain in the friend zone for the rest of their lives. Bennett was recruited by a restaurant in Bluemoon. He knew his reasons for going back there. Would Blossom finally be ready to deal with the feelings they have always had for each other?
Once Bennett moves back to Bluemoon, readers start getting bits and pieces of the real reason Blossom pushed Bennett away then and continues to push him away now. Readers can't help but fall in love with this family. Blossom is also navigating her sister, January's wedding while trying to figure out if Bennett can go from being her best friend to the love of her life. She can't lose Bennett but pushing him away again might be the last straw. Ms. Jax does it again. Readers will enjoy this story and will need to see it through to the end. I am sure they will be just as invested in this family as I am.
Bennett, on the other hand, was headed to Seattle to attend culinary school. With his parents pushing him to get out of Bluemoon and Blossom's 180-degree turn, he was determined to make Seattle work. Bennett and Blossom remained friends and even tried to date other people. Bennett even brought one girl home on a visit. Looks like are best friends were going to remain in the friend zone for the rest of their lives. Bennett was recruited by a restaurant in Bluemoon. He knew his reasons for going back there. Would Blossom finally be ready to deal with the feelings they have always had for each other?
Once Bennett moves back to Bluemoon, readers start getting bits and pieces of the real reason Blossom pushed Bennett away then and continues to push him away now. Readers can't help but fall in love with this family. Blossom is also navigating her sister, January's wedding while trying to figure out if Bennett can go from being her best friend to the love of her life. She can't lose Bennett but pushing him away again might be the last straw. Ms. Jax does it again. Readers will enjoy this story and will need to see it through to the end. I am sure they will be just as invested in this family as I am.
August 5, 2025
Oh My, God did this book touch all the feels with me.
Blossom sacrificed so much for her Childhood sweetheart without him being aware of it.
Best friends since they were Kids, their friendship grew into a fantastic Relationship for both of them. Next Door neighbours that were total Besties first.
Bennett loved to Cook and his Dream was to go to Culinary School and then a job in a Top Restaurant to learn his skill there all with Blossom by his side. He got in to Culinary School in Seattle and Blossom was to go with him. Something happened and she had to tell him she was no longer able to go and be with him. She also told him to go and live his Life without her as a Long Distance Relationship would be too hard on both of them.
This really upset him but he forged on with his life. Got a new girlfriend and the rest is History, well for a few years anyway.
Blossom continued to work in her Family shop and living in their hometown of Bluemoon. Never forgetting Bennet and the Love she still had for him. She also never forgot the Pact that they had made before he left but still thought it was a silly notion to have.
Bennett ends up back in Bluemoon working a Job that he always wanted and still wanting Blossom.
Let's just say there are a few obstacles once again get in the way of the Two of them having a Happy Every After.
I won't say anymore as I don't want the book to be spoiled but it is definitely worth reading.
We get Blossom and her Family still as close as any Family could be and we definitely get a few laughs thrown in with these Crazy Gang.
Blossom sacrificed so much for her Childhood sweetheart without him being aware of it.
Best friends since they were Kids, their friendship grew into a fantastic Relationship for both of them. Next Door neighbours that were total Besties first.
Bennett loved to Cook and his Dream was to go to Culinary School and then a job in a Top Restaurant to learn his skill there all with Blossom by his side. He got in to Culinary School in Seattle and Blossom was to go with him. Something happened and she had to tell him she was no longer able to go and be with him. She also told him to go and live his Life without her as a Long Distance Relationship would be too hard on both of them.
This really upset him but he forged on with his life. Got a new girlfriend and the rest is History, well for a few years anyway.
Blossom continued to work in her Family shop and living in their hometown of Bluemoon. Never forgetting Bennet and the Love she still had for him. She also never forgot the Pact that they had made before he left but still thought it was a silly notion to have.
Bennett ends up back in Bluemoon working a Job that he always wanted and still wanting Blossom.
Let's just say there are a few obstacles once again get in the way of the Two of them having a Happy Every After.
I won't say anymore as I don't want the book to be spoiled but it is definitely worth reading.
We get Blossom and her Family still as close as any Family could be and we definitely get a few laughs thrown in with these Crazy Gang.
August 1, 2025
This small town, second chance at love romance was a pleasure to read. Beckett and Blossom were the best of friends, then teenage lovers who planned a future together until a twist of fate and outside interference changed their relationship yet again. A decade of the friend zone and dating others has left them both feeling dissatisfied, disappointed and confused. The love is still there between them, barely hidden, but something keeps holding Blossom back from declaring her feelings and staking her claim on Bennett who desperately wants her to do just that. A pact they made as teenagers to marry each other if they were still free and wanted each other at age 27 is the one ray of hope they both hold on to. Unfortunately, there are those who don’t want these two to be together at all and are doing their best to ruin everything between them. Can these two finally air out all the secrets, fears and feelings that have kept them apart for nearly a decade? Will they fight for their love and each other?
It was so easy to love Blossom and Bennett. Their soul-deep connection, the love that tethered them together and their heartbreak all touched my heart. They may have been young when they fell for each other, but it was true love nonetheless. It stood the test of separation, miscommunication, secrets and interference. I wholeheartedly recommend this very beautiful and poignant romance.
It was so easy to love Blossom and Bennett. Their soul-deep connection, the love that tethered them together and their heartbreak all touched my heart. They may have been young when they fell for each other, but it was true love nonetheless. It stood the test of separation, miscommunication, secrets and interference. I wholeheartedly recommend this very beautiful and poignant romance.
July 30, 2025
This was a fantastic small town romance based in the town called Bluemoon. The Mmc, Bennett and the Fmc, Blossom grew up together and fell for each other at 10 yrs old. There was a lot of miss communication that kept the pair from being together after graduation. Blossom pushed Bennett to go ahead and go to culinary school without her because Bennett's father convinced Blossom that her and the baby would hold Bennett back. Blossom finally tells him everything that caused her to push him away at their favorite spot in town, Bean Lake.
This is a fantastic read that is full of small town, found family, plenty of angst, some ex girlfriend drama, and plenty of spice !!
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series It Happened With You!! Going back to read January and Drakes in It Happened That Night now!!!
Thank you for letting me read and review this wonderful arc @lovenotes.pr and carolinajax_author
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏡Small Town
💖First Love
🥰Second Chance
This is a fantastic read that is full of small town, found family, plenty of angst, some ex girlfriend drama, and plenty of spice !!
Looking forward to reading the next book in this series It Happened With You!! Going back to read January and Drakes in It Happened That Night now!!!
Thank you for letting me read and review this wonderful arc @lovenotes.pr and carolinajax_author
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
🏡Small Town
💖First Love
🥰Second Chance
July 29, 2025
Wow, what an incredibly amazing and heartbreaking story!! I’m obsessed😍🖤 I could not put this book down. Definite book hangover and this is the type of book that will stick with me for a long time!
I instantly fell in love with Blossom and Bennett. They have such a complicated past and are the definition of soul mates. Blossom has a heartbreaking past and is continually grieving her Dad and the family dynamics that used to be. Shes loved Bennett since she was 10 years old but they’ve been best friends their entire lives. Heart crushing circumstance has her pushing Bennett away for years! No one knows her secrets and no one ever will. Until she has no choice but to tell Bennett the truth. Bennett will always love Blossom but has never understood why she can’t love him back. He tries to move on but his heart will always be hers. I’m just obsessed with how he loves her and never gives up. This book is just so emotional and the ending is absolutely perfect! Go read this book!!
I instantly fell in love with Blossom and Bennett. They have such a complicated past and are the definition of soul mates. Blossom has a heartbreaking past and is continually grieving her Dad and the family dynamics that used to be. Shes loved Bennett since she was 10 years old but they’ve been best friends their entire lives. Heart crushing circumstance has her pushing Bennett away for years! No one knows her secrets and no one ever will. Until she has no choice but to tell Bennett the truth. Bennett will always love Blossom but has never understood why she can’t love him back. He tries to move on but his heart will always be hers. I’m just obsessed with how he loves her and never gives up. This book is just so emotional and the ending is absolutely perfect! Go read this book!!
August 3, 2025
What a beautiful small town, second-chance, best friends to lovers romance that will pull on our heartstrings. The love, heartbreak, secrets and friendship are all wrapped into a love story that will have you riding an emotional rollercoaster.
Blossom and Bennett were childhood friends who became closer until he felt she pushed him away. Living in two different cities say their relationship changed and other people took their places in one another's hearts. The only thing is that deep down their hearts never really belonged to anyone but one another. With Bennett back home brings so many feelings and memories, some wonderful and some heartbreaking. Will being in the same town see them ignite that spark that has been lingering since he left? Secrets are revealed and hearts are repaired. Their chemistry and relationship stood the test of time and were never really gone just simmering under the surface.
Blossom and Bennett were childhood friends who became closer until he felt she pushed him away. Living in two different cities say their relationship changed and other people took their places in one another's hearts. The only thing is that deep down their hearts never really belonged to anyone but one another. With Bennett back home brings so many feelings and memories, some wonderful and some heartbreaking. Will being in the same town see them ignite that spark that has been lingering since he left? Secrets are revealed and hearts are repaired. Their chemistry and relationship stood the test of time and were never really gone just simmering under the surface.
August 12, 2025
This is my first time reading from this author, and I really enjoyed it. This was such a heartfelt small-town second-chance romance. Blossom and Bennett’s story had all the nostalgia of first love mixed with the emotional pull of unfinished business. I loved how their past and present were connected, and how the author slowly revealed the history between them while showing how much they’ve grown (and how much they haven’t).
The small-town setting added so much charm, with just the right amount of gossip and familiarity, and I enjoyed seeing both characters navigate old wounds while figuring out if they could really make it work this time. Some parts were a little predictable, but the emotions and chemistry kept me invested from start to finish. Sweet, emotional, and a little bittersweet — it’s a lovely read about love, home, and second chances.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Carolina Jax for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The small-town setting added so much charm, with just the right amount of gossip and familiarity, and I enjoyed seeing both characters navigate old wounds while figuring out if they could really make it work this time. Some parts were a little predictable, but the emotions and chemistry kept me invested from start to finish. Sweet, emotional, and a little bittersweet — it’s a lovely read about love, home, and second chances.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Carolina Jax for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2025
It Happened Back Then is book three in the Nilsson Family Series.
These two characters have a lot to work through to get their HEA. Blossom is holding a lot close to her chest. She has a lot of secrets she is keeping from everyone, but she also has a lot of self doubt about her being in Bennett's life. She goes through a lot of ups and downs and when certain people say things to her about her relationship with Bennett, her doubt comes creeping back in and she does a lot of self sabotage. However, she does have a great family she can rely on and for the most part Bennett is always there for her, fighting for everything they could be together.
This is a more emotional read with a few frustrating and heartbreaking moments. I really felt the pain and doubt that Blossom goes through and it was very emotional.
These two characters have a lot to work through to get their HEA. Blossom is holding a lot close to her chest. She has a lot of secrets she is keeping from everyone, but she also has a lot of self doubt about her being in Bennett's life. She goes through a lot of ups and downs and when certain people say things to her about her relationship with Bennett, her doubt comes creeping back in and she does a lot of self sabotage. However, she does have a great family she can rely on and for the most part Bennett is always there for her, fighting for everything they could be together.
This is a more emotional read with a few frustrating and heartbreaking moments. I really felt the pain and doubt that Blossom goes through and it was very emotional.
August 1, 2025
Ohhhh baby! Let's just kick this story off with a bang. And I mean that in the best way.
So Bennett and Blossom have been best friends since they were ten. And of course, experience tons of things as teenagers. But as life happens, things change. But their feelings never do. Its just hard to navigate all that could be tossed your way. And that's what they have to do. Figure out if everything they felt at that tender age is still what they feel now. Or, we'll it is, but they just have to deal with the hurt from the past and what it means to now. And to finally spill secrets that should have been shared ages ago.
But in true Carolina form, you are left having on every word and longing for me. She’s one of my favorite authors for a reason and a piece like this shows you why. I promise you'll love and hate the characters...for different reasons.
So Bennett and Blossom have been best friends since they were ten. And of course, experience tons of things as teenagers. But as life happens, things change. But their feelings never do. Its just hard to navigate all that could be tossed your way. And that's what they have to do. Figure out if everything they felt at that tender age is still what they feel now. Or, we'll it is, but they just have to deal with the hurt from the past and what it means to now. And to finally spill secrets that should have been shared ages ago.
But in true Carolina form, you are left having on every word and longing for me. She’s one of my favorite authors for a reason and a piece like this shows you why. I promise you'll love and hate the characters...for different reasons.
August 3, 2025
This is the kinda of love you dream about finding. Young love and finding your forever at such a young age there is so many factors that can pull them away. Blossom and Bennett have been best friends since they were ten, at sixteen things were took to the next level. At eighteenth , everything changed for them. The pact they made when they were kids found themselves back in town together and questioning their adult feelings and everything around them. It’s almost like they heard everyone’s else’s thoughts instead of just talking to each other. Once their past came to play, the side characters around them had choice things to say. Im obsessed with this family and their relationship. Bennett is just a dreamy bff to boyfriend that will always take care of Blossom and be that person that keeps cheering her on.
March 20, 2026
Are we serious?
The entire story is based on the narrative from Bennett (MMC) being that Blossom (FMC) needs to tell him she wants him. It would’ve made sense if she’d actually denied that vehemently at any single point. She doesn’t, quite the opposite in fact.
Maybe it’s me, and my imagination was meant to interpret their reluctance (in the nonsensical conversations we see between him leaving for college, and coming home again). Or maybe I didn’t get it because they constantly told each other they were in love, but then Bennett internally decides she doesn’t mean it, and that’s that. Back to the same plot loop.
I’m sorry, but this was really poorly thought out—no surprise teen pregnancy and a controlling parent could save it for me. The second pregnancy? Come on, now. The other girlfriend staying in town for six whole months?? Je-sus.
The entire story is based on the narrative from Bennett (MMC) being that Blossom (FMC) needs to tell him she wants him. It would’ve made sense if she’d actually denied that vehemently at any single point. She doesn’t, quite the opposite in fact.
Maybe it’s me, and my imagination was meant to interpret their reluctance (in the nonsensical conversations we see between him leaving for college, and coming home again). Or maybe I didn’t get it because they constantly told each other they were in love, but then Bennett internally decides she doesn’t mean it, and that’s that. Back to the same plot loop.
I’m sorry, but this was really poorly thought out—no surprise teen pregnancy and a controlling parent could save it for me. The second pregnancy? Come on, now. The other girlfriend staying in town for six whole months?? Je-sus.
July 26, 2025
I am giving this a 6-star rating something I have never done....
I started reading this book and kept putting it down. Not because it was but because I wanted to keep reading it through the night. Which I did. 5 a.m. comes pretty quickly when you find a book that you can engage with.
This book did that.
I ate it up
The banter, the smexy scenes, ALL of it was so so good.
CAROLINA JAX the two are my favorite book couple.
Bennett and Blossom, you can't find a love so deep and pure. I laughed and cried and laughed some more.
You had me worried there for a second with
BENNETT!!!
All the characters were on point and had such good chemistry even SAVANNAH.
I am HOPING that we are going to see more of Cole and Meadow.
Leif too!
I HIGHLY recommend this book.
I started reading this book and kept putting it down. Not because it was but because I wanted to keep reading it through the night. Which I did. 5 a.m. comes pretty quickly when you find a book that you can engage with.
This book did that.
I ate it up
The banter, the smexy scenes, ALL of it was so so good.
CAROLINA JAX the two are my favorite book couple.
Bennett and Blossom, you can't find a love so deep and pure. I laughed and cried and laughed some more.
You had me worried there for a second with
BENNETT!!!
All the characters were on point and had such good chemistry even SAVANNAH.
I am HOPING that we are going to see more of Cole and Meadow.
Leif too!
I HIGHLY recommend this book.
July 29, 2025
The ones who never gave up on ‘someday’.
This story follows best friend’s Bennett and Blossom starting at age 16 onwards. They grew up in the small town of Bluemoon where most people fall into a job, settle into a rhythm, and stay. It’s a town full of good people doing honest work.
Blossom has always been the fun Nilsson sister. She is bubbly and outgoing. She works in the family business ‘Dress Me Up’ content with life. Bennett’s dream is to be a chef and cook/create delicious meals. Some secrets keep them apart as we continue to root for these two.
Be prepared for some angst!
This story will make you ‘fall in love with love all over again.’
It was great having cameos of all the Nilsson siblings and family along with the friends!
Can’t wait for Cole and Meadow who are up next.
This story follows best friend’s Bennett and Blossom starting at age 16 onwards. They grew up in the small town of Bluemoon where most people fall into a job, settle into a rhythm, and stay. It’s a town full of good people doing honest work.
Blossom has always been the fun Nilsson sister. She is bubbly and outgoing. She works in the family business ‘Dress Me Up’ content with life. Bennett’s dream is to be a chef and cook/create delicious meals. Some secrets keep them apart as we continue to root for these two.
Be prepared for some angst!
This story will make you ‘fall in love with love all over again.’
It was great having cameos of all the Nilsson siblings and family along with the friends!
Can’t wait for Cole and Meadow who are up next.
August 1, 2025
Blossom & Bennett's story is the true definition of soulmates. After 10 years of trying to move forward with their lives apart, the bond these two share along with the undeniable chemistry keeps pulling them back together. Years of dating & relationships couldn't keep Bennett away so he moves back home to his dream job & hopes of settling down with the one that he loves. This book will wreck you & then put you back together again piece by piece. The up & down emotions I experienced while reading this book kept me on the edge of my seat & never wanting to put this book down. I have loved the Nilsson Family Series & Blossom's story did not disappoint! If you love a good second chance / soulmate story then this is a must read for you! I can't wait for the next book in this series!
August 11, 2025
Blossom and Bennett, best friends from childhood, shared firsts, and made a 10 year promise. In true Carolina fashion, this was an emotional read, where tears were shed and those feeling the two characters experienced, I felt.
What meant to be the two of them going off to college, it instead saw them go in seperate directions, and when the truths unfold.....OMG keep those tissues close. I have so few words, as this book simply needs to be read. It is beautiful, it is everything you love about a second chance, and a friendship that was always so much more, but from Blossom's self preservation and thinking her best friend deserved more, how it became more than what happened back then. Carolina, I love you, I always love your writing, and this book was perfect.
What meant to be the two of them going off to college, it instead saw them go in seperate directions, and when the truths unfold.....OMG keep those tissues close. I have so few words, as this book simply needs to be read. It is beautiful, it is everything you love about a second chance, and a friendship that was always so much more, but from Blossom's self preservation and thinking her best friend deserved more, how it became more than what happened back then. Carolina, I love you, I always love your writing, and this book was perfect.
July 30, 2025
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC. This review and thoughts are mine alone.*
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This is an amazing story of a second chance in a small town that gives you all the feels.
Blossom is consistently being held in the past due to the loss of her father. Shes been in love with Bennett forever.
Bennett loves Blossom in silence due to thinking she doesn’t want him back.
Eventually these two make their way together and it forms the most beautiful relationship based on trust and friendship first, and not just a relationship just starting fresh.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This is an amazing story of a second chance in a small town that gives you all the feels.
Blossom is consistently being held in the past due to the loss of her father. Shes been in love with Bennett forever.
Bennett loves Blossom in silence due to thinking she doesn’t want him back.
Eventually these two make their way together and it forms the most beautiful relationship based on trust and friendship first, and not just a relationship just starting fresh.
I can’t wait to see what happens next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2025
Blossom and Bennett have been best friends since they were young, then he goes to culinary school and she stays behind in Bluemoon. They have other partners but both remember what they had with each other.
Blossom is hiding something and it's tearing her apart as she really wants to be with him.
Bennett does really well and is offered a great job back home but knows he can't see Blossom with other men. So he's unsure about it and Blossom keeps pushing him away but he won't tell Savannah that he's with Blossom. So what's Blossom supposed to think?
An emotional read from Carolina, looking forward to Meadows story.
Blossom is hiding something and it's tearing her apart as she really wants to be with him.
Bennett does really well and is offered a great job back home but knows he can't see Blossom with other men. So he's unsure about it and Blossom keeps pushing him away but he won't tell Savannah that he's with Blossom. So what's Blossom supposed to think?
An emotional read from Carolina, looking forward to Meadows story.
August 2, 2025
It Happened Back Then by Carolina Jax is the tumultuous story of Bennett and Blossom. They were best friends when they were ten. Back then, they made a pact. Things got real after that. Life happened. Things changed. The world kept spinning.
This story just broke my heart….a million times….over and over and over again. The situations that these two were in, avoided, prevented, and dealt with were overwhelming. The worst part is that I could understand each and every decision they made. Well…except for one…which I will not divulge. This story will melt your heart and make you believe in love again!!!
This story just broke my heart….a million times….over and over and over again. The situations that these two were in, avoided, prevented, and dealt with were overwhelming. The worst part is that I could understand each and every decision they made. Well…except for one…which I will not divulge. This story will melt your heart and make you believe in love again!!!
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