This small town romance was like watching a 2002 lifetime movie! The drama and family secrets had me not wanting to put my kindle down. Each “episode” had me hooked. Just enough romance & spice where it didn’t take away from the story.
And Daphne!! Daphne!! That character has me over here talking to myself. I love an author that can make you hate a character so much but know that there is more to their story, so you hold onto the hope that they will be redeemed.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series ☺️
Thank you to the author for sending me this advance readers copy in exchange for my honest review
This country, Southern hometown romance was just what I needed! 🩷
This book gave me all the feels. Vanessa coming back to her hometown sparks feelings she didn't think existed for her childhood friend, Jericho. And mannnn, Jericho treats her like a queen as he shows her his feelings are real for her and ONLY her. When I say "he shows" her, he puts in work! 💪🏾😍🤠
I'm pretty sure I smiled the whole time because of how genuine Vanessa & Jericho's relationship is. But with all small towns, there's gossip & a pinch of drama. I wasn't expecting the bits of mystery intertwined in their growing romance 🤭. The cliffhanger at the end has me ready to see what happens next in Stonecrest - I need answers!
I'm loving Danielle Brooks this year & glad I've discovered her books! (Mental note: go through her catalogue this year)
Thank you Danielle Brooks for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.❤️
I really enjoyed this one! It felt like home, it gave the best small town vibes with small town family drama. She does leave you wanting more and we “end” with several question
Quick Thoughts: -I just love a small town vibe set in the Fall with the holidays in the background. So cozy and my vibe. -Vanessa didn't have to call my man Deacon a bozo! Now she has to gain cool points with ME -Daphne is one of those kind of cousins huh? -June is giving a little mysterious -Grandma is giving riddles in death -Jericho is giving BDE but these townie women...... -I just know they were dancing to "Boots on the Ground" -I love that he calls her Vanity -I need to know more about Solene -Me at the end, "Danielle, REALLY?!"
This book is what you call a true page turner. I kept flipping the pages, fully invested in the drama, the chemistry, and the delicious messiness that is Stonecrest. From the very beginning, we are drawn into the story of Vanessa and her cousin who I can never grow to like!… and the chaos that erupts when their grandmother’s will is read. Grandma Hattie leaves her house to Vanessa, the granddaughter who left town, and that one decision sets Daphne ablaze, adding fuel to the already brewing tensions between the cousins.
The tension from Daphne is giving jealousy, old wounds, and that unspoken competition between family. But there’s more in the will. A trust fund. A third person they must work together to find in order to claim the inheritance. The drama in this book is endless!
But then, there’s also romance. after all, this is vanessa and JERICHO’s story. I love the flirting and teasing between Vanessa and Jericho. The way Jericho is intentional, soft, and determined to win Vanessa over was so beautiful to read. Danielle Brooks really showed us how a country man can love a woman right. But of course, the town is watching. The gossip is wild. Vanessa wants to keep her peace, but Stonecrest is not a place that lets you rest.
Also, those twins…no comment. This book has characters you’ll deeply love and those you’ll dislike with so much passion lolll.
I am super curious about June’s character and his relationship with the mystery woman. I really want to see how their story unfolds. 😉😉😉 This book had me swiping like it was a Netflix series. It has drama, desire, family tension all wrapped up in small town heat. So yes, I’m asking…
Okay y'all, don't shoot me (hands up!). This might be my new favorite Danielle Brooks book...
We all remember Vanessa from Smoke Signals. You know Deacon's ex-fiancee, our girl who was giving Nina advise and her props and all that? She also made her appearance in Through the Fire when Nina invited her to that one party not realizing Fallon and her might have beef? Right right so, Deacon obviously didn't know what he was doing with her, and from a real crazy turn of events, she ended up back at home in the COUNTRY, trying to do life as an independent woman who doesn't need a man.
*Enter Jericho* Big, fine, chivalrous, and country. A MAN. The exact type of man Vanessa needs if you ask me. They've been friends forever, but this new spark in their relationship is taking them places neither of them ever considered. Vanessa is running from it with Jericho's past as too much of a burden, and Jericho is a changed man who can't imagine not intentionally pursuing the woman of his dreams.
Their story is the country love story we never knew we needed, and 198 pages was simply not enough. I do not have the closure I need. I'm not okay. I need more Vanessa and Jericho. (Or just Jericho would be fine. I'll send my address. Just lmk.)
It's literally not my fault that I wish I lived in Greenbrook. I loved this book so much, and I NEED more from Vanessa and Jericho.
************ARC REVIEW************** 199 Pages Tropes: Small town romance , Second chance romance , family secrets
General thoughts: If you haven’t read anything by Danielle Brooks yet, then you’re losing out. She is such an amazing writer. Her love stories are swoon worthy and there is no exception when it comes to this story. What’s is a small-town romance without drama 😉 This was a fun read filled with suspense, mushy love, and family secrets, I will highly recommend. It’s coming out on the 10th July and it will be available on KU Ps I noticed the D.Rose book reference , that’s really nice!
Book review: Vivian has been left her grandmother Hattie’s house after she passed away, Vivian has lived the city girl life ever since she graduated college. Small town Stonecrest wasn’t a place, she though, she will be coming back to, but fate has other plans. A new start and maybe new love The eligible bachelor Jericho is on a mission to make Vivian his, he isn’t a stranger to attention from the local female population, but he is looking for real love that will blossom into his forever. He was always intrigued by Vivian when they were growing up. Now that she is back his attention is only on her .
Will Vivian give Jericho a chance , after being disappointed by her fiancé Deacon (who we meet in the ”Fire Company 143” series). Can she get over all the female attention Jericho attracts especially her cousin Daphne’s?
Read the story to find out! #bookreview #shelovesgodnbooks #indieauthorsofinstagram #smalltownromance
In the Heart of Stonecrest: Home is Where the Heart Is
Danielle Brooks
A second chance at love romance, in a small town with a little country charm? Oh yes! You can take my money lol.
Vanessa is headed back to her roots. Her life in the city didn’t pan out the way she planned. She’s disappointed, but not defeated. She doesn’t even have time to ruminate on the fallout. Life is coming at her so quickly.
Grandma Hattie had many tricks up her sleeves. Her final wishes cause Vanessa to deal with family that she hasn’t been in close contact with for years. I love how this aspect of the novel has a bit of mystique about it. In most families, a funeral is the precursor to a lot of mystery waiting to be revealed. The Bell family is no exception.
And then, there is Jericho Le’roy Henderson. He’s not a little Chihuahua. He’s a big dog lol. He’s applying all the pressure. Vanessa gets to be poured into. He cherishes his time with her. The banter is cute.
Back to the family aspect, Vanessa has a cousin Daphne, that’s sweet on Jericho. Clearly, the hook she thought she had in him is a non-factor. Sadly, she’s delusional.
There is more I could say, but I won’t 😁😏. I didn’t even mention June and Solene. It’s so good. I’ll let you read the rest for yourself.
Many thanks to Danielle Brooks for an advanced readers copy for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This story had me caught all the way up. Had me pulling an all nighter lol. The definition of captivating, and literally from the onset because the prologue sucked me in entirely.
The FMC was a true heroine. Poor Vanessa kept getting jerked around by people who were supposed to love her. First her unserious fiancé, then her cousin, then her grandmother from beyond the grave lol.
Enter the MMC hero…Jericho. A man completely sprung when Vanessa came back to town. And he vividly displayed his serious intentions by investing time and money, on top of openly conveying his emotions for Vanessa directly to her any chance he got. Nothing nonchalant about this big dog! He was pressed, and I love that for the both of them.
And of course, what’s a small town romance without a messy neighbor or family member lurking around? Daphne, Vanessa’s envious cousin, was not pleased Jericho had his sight set on Vanessa. Daphne kept stirring the pot and eventually dropped a bomb of mess for the third act drama for this novella.
We are left with an epic cliffhanger, so I am already looking forward to the follow up story. I also look forward to learning more about June and Solene’s history. Wouldn’t be surprised if they got their own second chance love story.
In the Heart of Stonecrest by Danielle Brooks is an absolute must-read! From the very first page, I was hooked by the intriguing blend of romance, mystery, and family drama. The chemistry between the cousins was electric, and I loved the push and pull between them. It kept me on the edge of my seat. The relationship development was beautifully written, and I couldn’t get enough of the emotional depth that Danielle brought to each scene. The mystery aspect of the book was fantastic! It added so much intrigue and kept my attention, while the romance was just as satisfying. If you love the "childhood lovers to friends, return home, small town, family drama" trope with a bit of spice, this book is absolutely for you! Danielle Brooks delivers a story that’s both heartwarming and suspenseful, making it a perfect read for anyone who loves layered relationships and plot twists. I am so excited for what comes next, I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here. If you’re looking for a compelling read with a perfect mix of love, drama, and mystery, In the Heart of Stonecrest is the book for you! I was gifted an early copy from the author, thank you. My opinions are my own.
Ms Danielle, where is the rest of this! That ending plot twist mam. After the author, released visuals on Instagram I had visual pictures of the two main characters, however they were described perfectly throughout. The second chance romance troupe for Vanessa was smothered in a chocolate farmer with good business sense and money honey. While Vanessa was in Stonecrest due to her inheritance of the family home it was necessary for her healing. Failed engagement, hating cousin and grief of the loss of her grandmother. Jericho was epitome of what a man (think Salt and Pepper song) he showed Vanessa how much he wanted her with his actions and it melted all her walls in many ways while not shying away from his past. Daphne was written for you to hate her although I'd like to know more about her tensions towards Vanessa. I need a novella or an epilogue to close up some gaps. This was given as an ARC read from the author. Thank you!
Reading this book felt like stepping into a warm southern breeze. The town of Stonecrest came alive on the page—I’m ready to pack up and move there myself! It gave all the cozy small-town vibes with just the right amount of family drama, swoony romance, and heartfelt moments.
Jericho Le’Roy Henderson? Whew—he’s a big dog, not a chihuahua! 😂 The definition of a homegrown, pressure-applying, southern cowboy. His love for Vanessa felt so intentional and tender. He pours into her the way every woman wants to be seen and cherished. Their chemistry and banter? Absolutely adorable.
Then there’s Daphne… every family has that one cousin who’s just a little off. Her entitlement and delusion over Jericho made for some real tension. And yes—I was definitely side-eyeing that child wondering if it was his. But baby, Jericho made it crystal clear: she’s not even a factor.
Also, I’m gonna need June and Solene to get their own story ASAP! Their dynamic was too good to be left on the sidelines.
First of all let’s start and say I’ve read every single one of Danielle Brooks books. I have not found one that I disliked.
This book gave lifetime cozy country vibes and I loved every minute of it. The town dynamic and family aspect gave me all the feels I wish we had more of. The romance between Vanessa and Jericho gave just the right amount to keep me wanting more of them as the story went on.
The DRAMA?!? I was here for it. It gave messy but not too messy. It definitely had you invested all around to see just what would happen next. The cliffhanger at the end got me wanting Danielle to get her pen writing immediately cause how you leave us hanging like that. All in all it’s definitely a must read if you like cozy small town vibes with romance, spice and a little touch of drama. Easily 5 stars.
Oooo the drama in this book! This felt like a lifetime movie. This follows our FMC, Vanessa who thinks she is just going back home to a small town called Stonecrest for the passing of her grandmother. But when she gets there plans change and now her and her cousin are stuck looking for some mystery woman. I loved seeing the sparks fly between Nessa and Jericho & I can’t wait to see what unfolds for June and Honey Chile. But Daphne, she got on my last nerve and I almost felt bad for her but she messed that all up. Jealousy is an ugly color and she wears it well. This done end on a cliffhanger, had me thinking I was crazy lol but I definitely recommend especially if you are looking for a small town romance with drama, spice and a little mystery.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I love how Danielle’s collection of books are an entire universe and they all interconnect. Vanessa had me wanting to jump through my kindle and smack some sense into her the whole time; like girl…let that man love and take care of you! Rico Le’Roy was a MAN honey. Truly Van had more patience than me with cousin Fae (iykyk). I hope the next book gives more on her beef with Vanessa bc truthfully I need an origin story to her villain start.
I cannot wait to experience the next part of the series! As always thank you for trusting me with your babies Danielle!
Thank you to the author Danielle Brooks for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
4/5 — This story read like a soap opera and I ate it right on up. This story line was juicy from start to the cliff hanger Danielle left us on. I just wanted Vanessa to allow Jericho Le’Roy Henderson to love her something proper, like I’d let him love me. I kept wanting to pluck her forehead time and time again. — Now don’t get me started on Daphne and the bopsy twins and the delusions they let foster their antics. — Now, I need more on June and Miss Honey Chile. — I need part two like yesterday. ___ Pub Date: 7/10/25
Danielle has done it AGAIN!!! I devoured this book in a day, and that cliffhanger?! Girl, why would you do us like that?! I need the next one ASAP!
Jericho is THAT man whewww I love him lolol. Vanessa Vanity Van Van, baby you bagged you a real one! What starts as a sweet friendship slowly turns into something more…or does it?
Now let’s talk about that jealous cousin Daphne. She had me HEATED the whole book. Like, ho is you coo?! I was ready to jump in the book and throw hands lol.
If you’re into friends-to-lovers, family secrets, small-town drama, a mystery and a fine ass BLACK cowboy, this one’s calling your name!
Thank you Danielle for the early access!!! Released today!!!!!
This story had layers upon layers, and the way it unfolded brought me right back to sitting at my grandma’s house, locked into Victor and Nikki Newmans’ drama like my little life depended on it. If you know, you know.
And Jericho? Might be sliding into Big Daddy territory and giving Deacon a run for his money. I’m just saying.
✨ 3 Things to Know:
💚Small town romance with deep family roots and a lil drama to sip on
💚FMC returns home and inherits a lot more than she bargained for
💚Cowboy energy. That stare? Slow. And steady. 😮💨
Can’t wait to see what Episode 2 brings because Stonecrest already has me nosey.
4.5 - Now Danielle, why’d you leave me on the edge of my seat like that? Had me looking for extra pages. I need book two right away. Thank you for this ARC opportunity in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I loved how the story just got right into things from the beginning. Still with things starting off strong Danielle was able to keep it going til the last word. From well developed characters and story overall, their different povs, and pacing was good. I didn’t feel rushed or like i missed anything. One of my favorite things was episode names. Gave the feel of watching a tv drama unfold.
This small town is filled with romance, drama and some mystery. Watching the sparks fly between Vanessa and Jericho now that they are older was steamy and funny. My boy was not letting up. I can picture him all big and fine. Now the dang on Daphne is who you would see in the dictionary next to delusional, jealousy, and hater. The beef between her and Vanessa is so one sided. I want them to have it out so bad. Those little minions need help as well for enabling Daphne's mess.
Lastly, i can’t wait to get more into June and Honey Chile. They are for sure giving mystery and very secretive vibes. There’s also some spice there that i need all the details on. Such a good read.
Vanessa came back to bury her grandmother not fall into a slow-burn situationship with a cowboy who looks like sin. But between a shady cousin, a messy will, and a man who knows how to look at her? Chile… Stonecrest got her in a chokehold.
Danielle gave us soft heat, small-town tension, and a main character who’s trying to grieve, heal, and maybe fall in love again all at once. If you love a story with a little dust, drama, and a man who moves like a slow song you can’t skip? This one’s for you.
4.5 ⭐️. I thought this was gonna be a cute and cozy romance with a cowboy but this got messy. Due to the unfortunate death of Grandma Hattie, Vanessa has to return back countryside to pay her respects. Unbeknownst to Vanessa, grandma Hattie got a trick on two up her sleeve. Whether or not Vanessa plans on sticking around is a different story. By the ways things have spiraled at the end somebody gotta catch these hands.
This is a slow burn and ends on a cliffhanger. Kept me entertained and smiling. The angst was everything. I would recommend.
Now this felt like a hallmark movie and I loveeeeeeee it Read it in one sitting. Didn’t feel rushed or anything The pace was perfect! The vibe was small town with family drama, secrets, romance and family fun. It was told in episodes which I really liked. Really nice touch to the book. It was giving swooning, messy cousin drama, small town gossip. I will highly recommend this book. Definitely can’t wait for more!!
This book read just like a soap opera. The drama, secrets, lies and suspense had me wanting to see where it was going to go. Every "episode" was something new. I am curious to know more about Jericho's past since he was portrayed as a ladies man. Daphne was a hot mess and very conniving and I hope she does not get what she wants. I am interested to see if her and Vanessa can ever be more than just cousins and maybe form a bond in the time they have together. Grandma Bell knew exactly what she was doing orchestrating everything the way she did. Overall this was a good read and I cannot wait for the next installment.
Danielle girlllllll why you left us hanging like that….. and that Daphne needs her behind BEAT, Mrs Cherry needs to put her back across her leg and give her a good one because geez. Now I’m over here sad cause when are we getting part two and if it’s out while I’m posting this review disregard, i haven’t went looking yet but if not we need that QUICKLY.
if you are looking for a small town, with some family secrets, definitely pick this one up. The FMC Vanessa thought she was only returning to her small town to attend the funeral of her grandmother, but the reading of her will caused Vanessa to have to stay to settle some business. During this time she reconnects with a childhood friend and a fine cowboy and Jericho and baby Jericho is everything you want in a black Cowboy, southern charM & BDE.
Who doesn't love a little family drama, the jealous cousin who just keeps popping up everywhere, that was Daphne. Really enjoyed this book and can't wait for book 2.