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Adelaide Springs Love Stories #3
Wes and Addie Had Their Chance
Wes left Addie at the altar two decades ago . . . and that was supposed to be the end of the story.
When her life crashes and burns in a flurry of secrets and redacted information, Addie Atwater-Elwyn hightails it home to the tiny mountain town of Adelaide Springs, Colorado--back to living with her dad, back to working a low-paying job, back to a life of disappointments. Growing up, nobody expected their local girl to become a high-ranking CIA analyst, married to a gorgeous CIA operative. But that was Addie's life until she lost . . . well, everything.
Now she's trying to pick up the pieces of her broken life with a little help from old friends. But there's one old friend she knows her life is better without--Wesley Hobbes, her childhood sweetheart who left her standing at the altar when they were eighteen years old. Truth be told, Addie would be perfectly content never seeing Wes's stupid face ever again--which makes it very inconvenient that he's now a beloved senator and presidential frontrunner, his face everywhere she looks. But that has nothing to do with Addie personally. He might make history, but in her book, he is history.
So, when the unwelcome Wes appears back in their hometown, no one rolls out the red carpet--not Addie and not an entire town that was forced to pick sides (and unanimously chose Addie) decades ago. Senator Hobbes certainly won't win the popular vote in Adelaide Springs.
Wes, meanwhile, is sitting on a few secrets of his own, including the political scoop of the he'd seriously rather gouge his eyes out than spend another minute in politics, much less ever go anywhere near the White House. Addie knows there has to be more to the story, and her curiosity is clouding her judgment. You can take the girl out of the CIA, but it's not so easy to shake the CIA out of the girl. Of course, it's not just curiosity (and the acknowledgement that his face isn't so stupid after all) that's been reawakened inside her. But after more than two decades, it's too late. Wes and Addie already had their chance. Right?
When her life crashes and burns in a flurry of secrets and redacted information, Addie Atwater-Elwyn hightails it home to the tiny mountain town of Adelaide Springs, Colorado--back to living with her dad, back to working a low-paying job, back to a life of disappointments. Growing up, nobody expected their local girl to become a high-ranking CIA analyst, married to a gorgeous CIA operative. But that was Addie's life until she lost . . . well, everything.
Now she's trying to pick up the pieces of her broken life with a little help from old friends. But there's one old friend she knows her life is better without--Wesley Hobbes, her childhood sweetheart who left her standing at the altar when they were eighteen years old. Truth be told, Addie would be perfectly content never seeing Wes's stupid face ever again--which makes it very inconvenient that he's now a beloved senator and presidential frontrunner, his face everywhere she looks. But that has nothing to do with Addie personally. He might make history, but in her book, he is history.
So, when the unwelcome Wes appears back in their hometown, no one rolls out the red carpet--not Addie and not an entire town that was forced to pick sides (and unanimously chose Addie) decades ago. Senator Hobbes certainly won't win the popular vote in Adelaide Springs.
Wes, meanwhile, is sitting on a few secrets of his own, including the political scoop of the he'd seriously rather gouge his eyes out than spend another minute in politics, much less ever go anywhere near the White House. Addie knows there has to be more to the story, and her curiosity is clouding her judgment. You can take the girl out of the CIA, but it's not so easy to shake the CIA out of the girl. Of course, it's not just curiosity (and the acknowledgement that his face isn't so stupid after all) that's been reawakened inside her. But after more than two decades, it's too late. Wes and Addie already had their chance. Right?
500 pages, Library Binding
First published July 1, 2025
77 people are currently reading
7693 people want to read
About the author
Bethany Turner
12 books1,383 followersBethany Turner has been writing since the second grade, when she won her first writing award for explaining why, if she could have lunch with any person throughout history, she would choose John Stamos. She stands by this decision. Bethany now writes pop culture–infused rom-coms for a new generation of readers who crave fiction that tackles the thorny issues of life with humor and insight. She lives in Southwest Colorado with her husband, whom she met in the nineties in a chat room called Disco Inferno. As sketchy as it sounds, it worked out pretty well in this case, and they are now the proud parents of two grown sons. Connect with Bethany at seebethanywrite.com or across social media @seebethanywrite, where she clings to the eternal dream that John Stamos will someday send her a friend request. Text her any time at (970) 387-7811!
Learn more at seebethanywrite.com.
Learn more at seebethanywrite.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 348 reviews
February 27, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I hate DNFing books. But my ADHD and the often disjointed writing were not pals. I was so confused in spots. To be fair, I didn’t realize this was a part of a series but I think some of the confusing parts had nothing to do with character stories that I was missing.
I am SURE there are many people that will enjoy this but from what I read, it’s not me. It’s pretty slow moving and the humor was a miss for me.
There was also a moment when the author said “to each his or her own” and my spidey senses tingled. Do people say that, or was the author going out of their way to not say “their”? Idk it felt weird and suspicious.
I did find myself somewhat intrigued by Wes and Addie’s interaction together but not enough to slog through the rest of the book when they aren’t together. I also found myself feeling sad for Addie as she described parts of her relationship with Joel which is a good feeling to have, that means there is some potential for character investment.
Idk maybe I’ll come back to it. If I do, I’ll amend my review.
I hate DNFing books. But my ADHD and the often disjointed writing were not pals. I was so confused in spots. To be fair, I didn’t realize this was a part of a series but I think some of the confusing parts had nothing to do with character stories that I was missing.
I am SURE there are many people that will enjoy this but from what I read, it’s not me. It’s pretty slow moving and the humor was a miss for me.
There was also a moment when the author said “to each his or her own” and my spidey senses tingled. Do people say that, or was the author going out of their way to not say “their”? Idk it felt weird and suspicious.
I did find myself somewhat intrigued by Wes and Addie’s interaction together but not enough to slog through the rest of the book when they aren’t together. I also found myself feeling sad for Addie as she described parts of her relationship with Joel which is a good feeling to have, that means there is some potential for character investment.
Idk maybe I’ll come back to it. If I do, I’ll amend my review.
May 22, 2025
I love a great small-town romance, and this one fit the bill. The author included a lot of twists and interest that really leveled up the story.
Second chance romance between high school sweethearts and a change of mind at the last second. Two times heartbreak, interesting jobs, and a swirl of mystery as to the secrets they are both holding.
This is the first time read of this author’s stories, and I love the atmosphere of the community and the friendships she built within.
There’s a little bit of oddness in the writing and the setup of the story. We do bounce back and forth between time and between characters. There are sections labeled GH, which I think is the father, but a little clarity would’ve been helpful.
The two main characters do work well together for the most part. I feel she’s a little too forgiving, but considering he’s good at convincing her she was the one and only, I can understand. I would probably do the same thing if he were my first love.
This is a clean romance that has some good energy and pretty low angst for the most part. I love the character’s connection towards the last half as she had a lot of healing to do! Plus, the ending is awesome.
~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/wes-and-addi...
Second chance romance between high school sweethearts and a change of mind at the last second. Two times heartbreak, interesting jobs, and a swirl of mystery as to the secrets they are both holding.
This is the first time read of this author’s stories, and I love the atmosphere of the community and the friendships she built within.
There’s a little bit of oddness in the writing and the setup of the story. We do bounce back and forth between time and between characters. There are sections labeled GH, which I think is the father, but a little clarity would’ve been helpful.
The two main characters do work well together for the most part. I feel she’s a little too forgiving, but considering he’s good at convincing her she was the one and only, I can understand. I would probably do the same thing if he were my first love.
This is a clean romance that has some good energy and pretty low angst for the most part. I love the character’s connection towards the last half as she had a lot of healing to do! Plus, the ending is awesome.
~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/wes-and-addi...
July 2, 2025
Cute! Reads as a standalone too.
Fun on audio too
Fun on audio too
Want to read
November 7, 2024Oh, hello…
November 21, 2025
Just not what I expected and sadly, not for me.
Read
May 8, 2025Addie Elwyn (nee Atwater) is back in her namesake, Colorado, one-horse town of Adelaide Springs. It’s a been a rough go of it for the last year: she left her job at the CIA under strange circumstances, and her loving husband died under even stranger circumstances. She’s laying low, driving a cab and doing odd jobs. But then she picks up a mystery passenger: Wes Hobbes, the presidential candidate that jilted her twenty years earlier. Apparently, he’s seeking some journalist that can help him with some serious personal issue, and thus he crosses paths with the woman he wronged.
Of all the cabs in all the towns in all the world…
The cozy setting here is lovely. It’s the Rockies in full-on winter, and Turner does a good job in her descriptions. I felt my shoes go damp in the snow! The village set-up was also well done: every restaurant and coffee shop and grocery store feels homey and familiar, just like you’d expect. Everyone knows everyone, and it isn’t long before all the neighbors’ quirks come out.
That makes the prologue and intro a nice little draw. I liked watching Addie reassimilate into a community she’d left behind in person, but kept deep in her heart. She’s got lots of affection for lots of people, and she comes off as a real stand-up citizen.
The plot is a clear take on the second-chance romance trope. The length of time between MC encounters makes this interesting for people in their 40s and 50s, so kudos to that. There are also lots of big issues swirling in and out of the story: grief, alcoholism, guilt, politics, secrets. Allow me to simply say these made keeping track of things and sustaining belief a bit of a challenge, but it’s a tip of the cap for giving it a try.
Some might say reading the prior novels in this series is a must, but I’m not so sure that would’ve made the difference. Either way, it was a quick read with a nice premise.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Of all the cabs in all the towns in all the world…
The cozy setting here is lovely. It’s the Rockies in full-on winter, and Turner does a good job in her descriptions. I felt my shoes go damp in the snow! The village set-up was also well done: every restaurant and coffee shop and grocery store feels homey and familiar, just like you’d expect. Everyone knows everyone, and it isn’t long before all the neighbors’ quirks come out.
That makes the prologue and intro a nice little draw. I liked watching Addie reassimilate into a community she’d left behind in person, but kept deep in her heart. She’s got lots of affection for lots of people, and she comes off as a real stand-up citizen.
The plot is a clear take on the second-chance romance trope. The length of time between MC encounters makes this interesting for people in their 40s and 50s, so kudos to that. There are also lots of big issues swirling in and out of the story: grief, alcoholism, guilt, politics, secrets. Allow me to simply say these made keeping track of things and sustaining belief a bit of a challenge, but it’s a tip of the cap for giving it a try.
Some might say reading the prior novels in this series is a must, but I’m not so sure that would’ve made the difference. Either way, it was a quick read with a nice premise.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 19, 2025
WES AND ADDIE HAD THEIR CHANCE is a small town second chance romance. The MCs were childhood sweethearts whose relationship ended when Wes left 18-year-old Addie at the altar. They haven’t spoken since.
More than two decades later Addie returns to her small Colorado hometown after the mysterious death of her husband and the end of her illustrious CIA career. She’s there to pick up the pieces of her shattered life; never expecting one of those pieces to be Wes, the man who deserted her and broke her heart. Wes has been busy in his time away from Adelaide. Married and now widowed, he is a United States senator eying a run for president. What will happen now that fate has brought them back together?
Let’s be real here. Decades of no contact after ghosting the bride on her wedding day and you want me to believe she’s going to forgive him after a half hearted “I’m sorry” and some lame explanation as to why he hightailed it out of town? I’m sorry, I’m not buying it. And let me tell you, the explanation is anticlimactic and felt a bit like gaslighting to me. Other than that and the fact that I didn’t really like the characters (maybe it’s an aversion to politicians in general), this book was fine.
I alternated between the digital and audio versions of this book and found myself speeding up the audio because I did not find the MMC’s narrator appealing. Again, perhaps it’s the politics thing.
Ultimately this book was a bit of a miss for me, but hardcore second chance romance fans may find it more appealing. I did like a few of the side characters because they were not falling under that slick politician spell.
Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.
More than two decades later Addie returns to her small Colorado hometown after the mysterious death of her husband and the end of her illustrious CIA career. She’s there to pick up the pieces of her shattered life; never expecting one of those pieces to be Wes, the man who deserted her and broke her heart. Wes has been busy in his time away from Adelaide. Married and now widowed, he is a United States senator eying a run for president. What will happen now that fate has brought them back together?
Let’s be real here. Decades of no contact after ghosting the bride on her wedding day and you want me to believe she’s going to forgive him after a half hearted “I’m sorry” and some lame explanation as to why he hightailed it out of town? I’m sorry, I’m not buying it. And let me tell you, the explanation is anticlimactic and felt a bit like gaslighting to me. Other than that and the fact that I didn’t really like the characters (maybe it’s an aversion to politicians in general), this book was fine.
I alternated between the digital and audio versions of this book and found myself speeding up the audio because I did not find the MMC’s narrator appealing. Again, perhaps it’s the politics thing.
Ultimately this book was a bit of a miss for me, but hardcore second chance romance fans may find it more appealing. I did like a few of the side characters because they were not falling under that slick politician spell.
Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.
July 20, 2025
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Bibliolifestyle for the gifted copy.
NOT SURE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
This is definitely my least favorite of the series AND on that note, this book really can’t be read as a standalone. I feel like it falls on you knowing the secondary characters well (from their books) so having that knowledge makes the dynamic make more sense.
I steadily watched this turn into a trauma dump. It felt like one thing after another and I kept quirking my head going, why are we adding this?? I think if the focus had been dialed in more the emotional impact would have been better. The themes darted all over the place.
One of the things about reading romance books is always going, do they make it after the epilogue? And honestly I DON’T KNOW THAT THEY DO. There’s so much baggage between them and I think that Wes should have finished going after his dream *spoiler* before settling? Is that just me?
Anyways, bummed by this one but maybe a new series will work for me.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: mild
- Content warnings: loss of a spouse (twice, recounted), loss of a parent (recounted), alcoholism, grief
NOT SURE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
This is definitely my least favorite of the series AND on that note, this book really can’t be read as a standalone. I feel like it falls on you knowing the secondary characters well (from their books) so having that knowledge makes the dynamic make more sense.
I steadily watched this turn into a trauma dump. It felt like one thing after another and I kept quirking my head going, why are we adding this?? I think if the focus had been dialed in more the emotional impact would have been better. The themes darted all over the place.
One of the things about reading romance books is always going, do they make it after the epilogue? And honestly I DON’T KNOW THAT THEY DO. There’s so much baggage between them and I think that Wes should have finished going after his dream *spoiler* before settling? Is that just me?
Anyways, bummed by this one but maybe a new series will work for me.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: mild
- Content warnings: loss of a spouse (twice, recounted), loss of a parent (recounted), alcoholism, grief
January 28, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Nelson publishing for allowing me to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I am so sorry to do this but I am DNF'ing Wes and Addie Had Their Chance. I did not know that this book is part of a series so that is on me but it's also on Netgalley or publisher for not pointing this out for first time readers. Though, it is not why I am giving this book 1 star.
I believe the series is based around a small town called Adelaide Springs set in either Colorado or Connecticut (there are continuous errors on which one it is) and each book seems to follow a different couple, from what I can gather. Wes and Addie Had Their Chance is the third book so there are a lot of characters being mentioned. Like A LOT of secondary characters. I'm assuming a few of them are from the other books because we get a huge info-dump on a few of them and what they are up to. The info-dump is a bit to take in. There's almost too much info being dropped on the reader, even if I were caught up on the series it would still be too much.
The story is told in the 1st person point of view by Addie and the 3rd person point of view by Wes. I like that it differentiates the voice between them but it can be jarring to go back and forth. This is a second chance romance book between Wes and Addie. He had left her at the altar at eighteen years old and become a big part of politics. She left the small town and met her deceased husband. Addie decides to come back to Adelaide Springs and.... that's all I really got to experience. I stopped when Addie picks up Wes from a location and she is driving him to his Inn.
I am giving this book 1 star because I did not like the writing style, the huge info dump of secondary characters, and even Addie and Wes themselves. I was trying to give this one a chance especially after finding out about it being part of a series. I really didn't want to DNF it. I just couldn't find a connection and I was a little bit bored.
The one positive I have is I do like that the characters are older. There are many contemporary romances that feature 20-30s and not many in their 40s so this felt like a nice change of pace based on age.
I am so sorry to do this but I am DNF'ing Wes and Addie Had Their Chance. I did not know that this book is part of a series so that is on me but it's also on Netgalley or publisher for not pointing this out for first time readers. Though, it is not why I am giving this book 1 star.
I believe the series is based around a small town called Adelaide Springs set in either Colorado or Connecticut (there are continuous errors on which one it is) and each book seems to follow a different couple, from what I can gather. Wes and Addie Had Their Chance is the third book so there are a lot of characters being mentioned. Like A LOT of secondary characters. I'm assuming a few of them are from the other books because we get a huge info-dump on a few of them and what they are up to. The info-dump is a bit to take in. There's almost too much info being dropped on the reader, even if I were caught up on the series it would still be too much.
The story is told in the 1st person point of view by Addie and the 3rd person point of view by Wes. I like that it differentiates the voice between them but it can be jarring to go back and forth. This is a second chance romance book between Wes and Addie. He had left her at the altar at eighteen years old and become a big part of politics. She left the small town and met her deceased husband. Addie decides to come back to Adelaide Springs and.... that's all I really got to experience. I stopped when Addie picks up Wes from a location and she is driving him to his Inn.
I am giving this book 1 star because I did not like the writing style, the huge info dump of secondary characters, and even Addie and Wes themselves. I was trying to give this one a chance especially after finding out about it being part of a series. I really didn't want to DNF it. I just couldn't find a connection and I was a little bit bored.
The one positive I have is I do like that the characters are older. There are many contemporary romances that feature 20-30s and not many in their 40s so this felt like a nice change of pace based on age.
August 31, 2025
Wes & Addie Had Their Chance by Bethany Turner
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3 stars)
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers for the opportunity to read this e-galley. This review is my own honest opinion.
Wes leaves Addie at the altar, but when he comes back into town years later, they are forced to confront their shared past and decide if there is still a future for them together.
This is the third standalone in a series, and I wish I had read the other two books first. I think I would have appreciated this story more with that context, as there seemed to be a lot of background that tied back to previous characters and plotlines. For fans of the earlier books, I imagine this would greatly enhance the reading experience.
The book features several popular tropes: second chances, childhood sweethearts, and love after loss. While I appreciated these themes, it took me too long to get invested in the story. The tension between Wes and Addie was intentional, but I never really felt the spark between them that I was hoping for, which made the book feel longer than it was.
Ultimately, I wanted to love this more than I did. It wasn’t a perfect fit for me, but I believe fans of Bethany Turner’s previous books will enjoy it more, especially with the added familiar characters and backstory. Absolutely check this out if you’re a fan of Turner’s other books.
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3 stars)
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishers for the opportunity to read this e-galley. This review is my own honest opinion.
Wes leaves Addie at the altar, but when he comes back into town years later, they are forced to confront their shared past and decide if there is still a future for them together.
This is the third standalone in a series, and I wish I had read the other two books first. I think I would have appreciated this story more with that context, as there seemed to be a lot of background that tied back to previous characters and plotlines. For fans of the earlier books, I imagine this would greatly enhance the reading experience.
The book features several popular tropes: second chances, childhood sweethearts, and love after loss. While I appreciated these themes, it took me too long to get invested in the story. The tension between Wes and Addie was intentional, but I never really felt the spark between them that I was hoping for, which made the book feel longer than it was.
Ultimately, I wanted to love this more than I did. It wasn’t a perfect fit for me, but I believe fans of Bethany Turner’s previous books will enjoy it more, especially with the added familiar characters and backstory. Absolutely check this out if you’re a fan of Turner’s other books.
December 30, 2024
Wes and Addie is the 3rd of a delightful series. Bethany Turner not only has penned a delightful rom-com series, she also reminds us how absolutely wonderful small town living is.
Wes and Addie have a history. He literally left her at the alter and her town has never forgiven him. She has moved on, but having him show up in town one cold night leaves her unsure if she has gotten over him.
There is so much more than a simple romance story to Turner's books. They have a hidden message, nothing Turner is going to hit you over the head with, but one that is richly woven into the story. You might not even notice it until you get all the way to the end, but you will remember it when you recommend her books to other.
Grab a cozy seat, a drink of choice and enjoy any and all of Turner's book. Just be prepared to laugh and maybe even shed a tear.
Wes and Addie have a history. He literally left her at the alter and her town has never forgiven him. She has moved on, but having him show up in town one cold night leaves her unsure if she has gotten over him.
There is so much more than a simple romance story to Turner's books. They have a hidden message, nothing Turner is going to hit you over the head with, but one that is richly woven into the story. You might not even notice it until you get all the way to the end, but you will remember it when you recommend her books to other.
Grab a cozy seat, a drink of choice and enjoy any and all of Turner's book. Just be prepared to laugh and maybe even shed a tear.
April 21, 2025
*Thank you to NetGally and Thomas Nelson Fiction (Publishing) for granting me free access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own*
Wes and Ali Had Their Chance by Bethany Turner
2.5/5 Stars - Mid
Read April 2025 - ARC
Wes and Ali Had Their Chance is a stereo-typical, romance with characters who started to push my buttons a toward the end.
Positive messages: 3/5
Be yourself. Stand up for who you love and don’t let anyone stand in your way. You have to sacrifice things for the things that you value and that truly matter to you. This is life—there’s no escaping these things.
*Some controversial content—see below*
Positive role models: 3/5
Ali, the main character, struggles with alcoholism and grief. Readers may be able to relate to her in this way. Throughout, she learns how to overcome with courage and love and friends support her along her healing journey.
Wes, although his decisions may lead readers to think negatively of him at first, he is kind and gentle at heart. I can’t lie—I loved him at first. I also have to say that he got me really annoyed at him by the end of the novel. Just a warning!
Wray, Wes’ partner and “ally” (they were married but called each other this) died at a young age. She sent him an email before she died that was uplifting and sweet and wise. The way he describes her also will lead readers to believe that she was a positive role model in his life and the lives of others. However, later in the novel she is found out to be a , which causes complications in their marriage.
Laila is known for being comforting and warm—always warm—and Addie admires this about her.
Jo is a motherly figure in Wes’ life. She gives great advice and wise words, but also wants him to navigate his obstacles for himself, learning as he goes.
Joel, Addie’s is important to the story, although not present at the time it takes place. Sweet, caring, and wise, he’s one that readers can look up to and relate to throughout.
Other characters such as Neil Pinkton (works with Addie as her “boss.” He’s twenty two and super sweet), “Doc” (Addie’s father and a protective character in her life, although they aren’t all that close), Cole, Brynn, and other support either Addie or Wes in their journeys toward reconciliation. They each play their part and, though they’re small characters, they’re important.
Drinking, Drugs, and Smoking: 2/5
A character is an alcoholic and recalls on very difficult seasons of addiction (described in a negative light)
Language: 0/5
None present.
Violence, Gore, and Scariness: 0.5/5
Characters think aggressive thoughts toward one another. An older character suffers from a heart attack.
Sex, Romance, and Nudity: 2/5
Characters kiss and flirt. Some of the scenes are more heated than others, but never overly much. I didn’t need to skip over anything—there wasn’t any sex.
What You Should Know:
Bethany Turner is a great Christian romance author. If you’re looking for something clean (language/detailed sexual scenes/drinking/really everything you find in adult fiction) then her books are definitely for you. I have reviews on some of her most popular such as The Do-Over, Wooing Cadie McCaffrey, and The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck (my fave). Check them out (I enjoyed them more than this one).
Now, for this one; it was okay. Going into the book, don’t expect it to be Christian. There is one quick reference to Jesus, but other than that, there’s absolutely nothing. Also, there is a lesbian character, which is very controversial for a Christian author. So…I have thoughts. Anyway, onto the next part of my incredibly long review…
I loved it at first, and I’ll get into why it went down to a 2.5 later on. The book starts with the main character talking about her ‘3 Main Heartbreaks.’ In the first few pages, you really get to know her and how she thinks. I really enjoyed this intro, and thought I should hint on it in this review.
Also the “times” that frames the storyline are based on different events such as “_____ Days Since the End of Before,” “_____ Days Before Wes Became Untouchable” and other stuff like that, which I thought was really clever!
Now for the negative stuff…which I hate. I don’t like writing negative reviews. But not every review can be positive, and that’s the hard truth. Toward the end of the book, it gets more and more unrealistic and too “happily-ever-after” for my taste. I loved the characters, but the ending ruined them for me.
If this sounds interesting to you, go ahead and read it. However, I recommend her other books over this one.
Age Range Recommendation: 13+ A Fiction/Romance
TRIGGER WARNINGS/ADULT CONTENT: ALCOHOLISM, DEATH OF LOVED ONES, GRIEF, TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS, *LESBIAN CHARACTER, ROMANCE (SMALL)
*Controversial Content* - LGTBQ+
Wes and Ali Had Their Chance by Bethany Turner
2.5/5 Stars - Mid
Read April 2025 - ARC
Wes and Ali Had Their Chance is a stereo-typical, romance with characters who started to push my buttons a toward the end.
Positive messages: 3/5
Be yourself. Stand up for who you love and don’t let anyone stand in your way. You have to sacrifice things for the things that you value and that truly matter to you. This is life—there’s no escaping these things.
*Some controversial content—see below*
Positive role models: 3/5
Ali, the main character, struggles with alcoholism and grief. Readers may be able to relate to her in this way. Throughout, she learns how to overcome with courage and love and friends support her along her healing journey.
Wes, although his decisions may lead readers to think negatively of him at first, he is kind and gentle at heart. I can’t lie—I loved him at first. I also have to say that he got me really annoyed at him by the end of the novel. Just a warning!
Wray, Wes’ partner and “ally” (they were married but called each other this) died at a young age. She sent him an email before she died that was uplifting and sweet and wise. The way he describes her also will lead readers to believe that she was a positive role model in his life and the lives of others. However, later in the novel she is found out to be a , which causes complications in their marriage.
Laila is known for being comforting and warm—always warm—and Addie admires this about her.
Jo is a motherly figure in Wes’ life. She gives great advice and wise words, but also wants him to navigate his obstacles for himself, learning as he goes.
Joel, Addie’s is important to the story, although not present at the time it takes place. Sweet, caring, and wise, he’s one that readers can look up to and relate to throughout.
Other characters such as Neil Pinkton (works with Addie as her “boss.” He’s twenty two and super sweet), “Doc” (Addie’s father and a protective character in her life, although they aren’t all that close), Cole, Brynn, and other support either Addie or Wes in their journeys toward reconciliation. They each play their part and, though they’re small characters, they’re important.
Drinking, Drugs, and Smoking: 2/5
A character is an alcoholic and recalls on very difficult seasons of addiction (described in a negative light)
Language: 0/5
None present.
Violence, Gore, and Scariness: 0.5/5
Characters think aggressive thoughts toward one another. An older character suffers from a heart attack.
Sex, Romance, and Nudity: 2/5
Characters kiss and flirt. Some of the scenes are more heated than others, but never overly much. I didn’t need to skip over anything—there wasn’t any sex.
What You Should Know:
Bethany Turner is a great Christian romance author. If you’re looking for something clean (language/detailed sexual scenes/drinking/really everything you find in adult fiction) then her books are definitely for you. I have reviews on some of her most popular such as The Do-Over, Wooing Cadie McCaffrey, and The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck (my fave). Check them out (I enjoyed them more than this one).
Now, for this one; it was okay. Going into the book, don’t expect it to be Christian. There is one quick reference to Jesus, but other than that, there’s absolutely nothing. Also, there is a lesbian character, which is very controversial for a Christian author. So…I have thoughts. Anyway, onto the next part of my incredibly long review…
I loved it at first, and I’ll get into why it went down to a 2.5 later on. The book starts with the main character talking about her ‘3 Main Heartbreaks.’ In the first few pages, you really get to know her and how she thinks. I really enjoyed this intro, and thought I should hint on it in this review.
Also the “times” that frames the storyline are based on different events such as “_____ Days Since the End of Before,” “_____ Days Before Wes Became Untouchable” and other stuff like that, which I thought was really clever!
Now for the negative stuff…which I hate. I don’t like writing negative reviews. But not every review can be positive, and that’s the hard truth. Toward the end of the book, it gets more and more unrealistic and too “happily-ever-after” for my taste. I loved the characters, but the ending ruined them for me.
If this sounds interesting to you, go ahead and read it. However, I recommend her other books over this one.
Age Range Recommendation: 13+ A Fiction/Romance
TRIGGER WARNINGS/ADULT CONTENT: ALCOHOLISM, DEATH OF LOVED ONES, GRIEF, TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS, *LESBIAN CHARACTER, ROMANCE (SMALL)
*Controversial Content* - LGTBQ+
“‘How about one more dance before we return to the land of hoodies and sweatpants?’” - Wes
August 2, 2025
My favorite of this series! Listened to it in 1 day. Too tired to write a full review right now though.
Contains an audiobook review.
This is the third book in the Adelaide Springs Love Stories series. It has some interconnected characters, but it could be read as a standalone story. It is a kisses only contemporary. The author describes it as a romcom, but I wouldn't say it fits my definition of one.
I'm going to give complete transparency here. I listened to this book in 1 day. I really liked it and definitely felt that it was my favorite in this series. But I didn't write my review right away. A couple of weeks later a friend started to listen to it and made a comment. I went back to see about that reference and couldn't remember a thing about the book, even after reading the blurb again! So, I decided I would listen again but at double speed. By the time I was halfway through chapter 2, the story started coming back. But I liked it so much, I continued and finished it a second time.
There's something about the dynamic of Wes and Addie that just fascinated me. I appreciated the life that Addie lived and didn't have regrets about it. I don't think I will forget the plot again. And I really enjoyed the author's note!
The only thing that bothers me, and I have noticed that other author's do it too, is that Addie's point of view is in first person while Wes' is in third. I find that a bit distracting and am not sure why authors do it.
Having said that, the audio has both a female and male narrator. I enjoyed both of them and think that they both captured the characters' personalities well. My friend that I mentioned earlier asked me why the male narrator whispered. She had to turn up her volume. I didn't notice that the first time, or at least I didn't remember it, maybe because I had earbuds in rather than listening in the car or with another speaker. The second time through I would think about it while listening. Probably because she had mentioned it.
I was given the opportunity to listen to a copy of the book by Netgalley and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Audio. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Contains an audiobook review.
This is the third book in the Adelaide Springs Love Stories series. It has some interconnected characters, but it could be read as a standalone story. It is a kisses only contemporary. The author describes it as a romcom, but I wouldn't say it fits my definition of one.
I'm going to give complete transparency here. I listened to this book in 1 day. I really liked it and definitely felt that it was my favorite in this series. But I didn't write my review right away. A couple of weeks later a friend started to listen to it and made a comment. I went back to see about that reference and couldn't remember a thing about the book, even after reading the blurb again! So, I decided I would listen again but at double speed. By the time I was halfway through chapter 2, the story started coming back. But I liked it so much, I continued and finished it a second time.
There's something about the dynamic of Wes and Addie that just fascinated me. I appreciated the life that Addie lived and didn't have regrets about it. I don't think I will forget the plot again. And I really enjoyed the author's note!
The only thing that bothers me, and I have noticed that other author's do it too, is that Addie's point of view is in first person while Wes' is in third. I find that a bit distracting and am not sure why authors do it.
Having said that, the audio has both a female and male narrator. I enjoyed both of them and think that they both captured the characters' personalities well. My friend that I mentioned earlier asked me why the male narrator whispered. She had to turn up her volume. I didn't notice that the first time, or at least I didn't remember it, maybe because I had earbuds in rather than listening in the car or with another speaker. The second time through I would think about it while listening. Probably because she had mentioned it.
I was given the opportunity to listen to a copy of the book by Netgalley and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Audio. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 2, 2025
After reading the first two books in the Adelaide Springs series, it was wonderful to finally know the story behind Wes and Addie. It seemed that their absence in the earlier books always hinted at something grand, and in a way, getting to meet them both in this last book was both fitting and satisfying. I was grateful that both mysterious characters made their long-awaited appearance, so that readers could understand the motivations for their behaviour and disappearances. Even better than that was seeing how they were able to take responsibility for their past actions against each other. With Wes and Addie being in their 40s, it was refreshing to see how they worked to clear up any miscommunication between them instead of descending into assumptions. Of course, it wouldn't be a Bethany Turner book without the pop culture nods along the way to evoke that shared nostalgia as well.
This book is marketed as clean fiction, so there are few faith references, with the exception of one scene that briefly alludes to it. Otherwise, it's a continuation of a charming small-town series with plenty of appearances by and references to the previous couples we've met in Adelaide Springs. One of the things I've liked most about this series has been the intergenerational nature of it, with a focus on the older characters that have guided and mentored the younger ones. This book does address heavier and potentially controversial topics, so readers might want to explore some trigger warnings beforehand. Those who have followed along on this journey in the series will be interested in discovering the answers to what happened between Wes and Addie all those years ago, with a dose of the inner workings of an American political campaign.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
This book is marketed as clean fiction, so there are few faith references, with the exception of one scene that briefly alludes to it. Otherwise, it's a continuation of a charming small-town series with plenty of appearances by and references to the previous couples we've met in Adelaide Springs. One of the things I've liked most about this series has been the intergenerational nature of it, with a focus on the older characters that have guided and mentored the younger ones. This book does address heavier and potentially controversial topics, so readers might want to explore some trigger warnings beforehand. Those who have followed along on this journey in the series will be interested in discovering the answers to what happened between Wes and Addie all those years ago, with a dose of the inner workings of an American political campaign.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
July 16, 2025
Second chance romcom GOLD right here! Bethany Turner is a creative genius, and the reigning Queen of pop culture references!
Wes and Addie’s story is a perfect example of why Bethany Turner is my favorite romcom author! She can make me snort-laugh at the simplest sentences, and the depth in her books always touches my heart!
It’s so much fun to watch Wes and Addie’s reunion, and I love that they communicated like adults!
I absolutely adored it! This phenomenal second chance romcom is perfection! Bethany Turner’s brilliance is off the charts amazing in Wes and Addie had Their Chance! Adelaide Springs has become my second home, and yes I’m fully aware that these people are fictional, but I never want to say goodbye to them! You need this book in your life!
One of my all time favorites! And I most highly recommend it!
Bethany is a dear friend of mine, and I had the honor of beta reading this wonderful story as she was writing it, however the above thoughts are my honest and uninfluenced opinion!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher, but I also purchased my own audiobook copy!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
Wes and Addie’s story is a perfect example of why Bethany Turner is my favorite romcom author! She can make me snort-laugh at the simplest sentences, and the depth in her books always touches my heart!
It’s so much fun to watch Wes and Addie’s reunion, and I love that they communicated like adults!
I absolutely adored it! This phenomenal second chance romcom is perfection! Bethany Turner’s brilliance is off the charts amazing in Wes and Addie had Their Chance! Adelaide Springs has become my second home, and yes I’m fully aware that these people are fictional, but I never want to say goodbye to them! You need this book in your life!
One of my all time favorites! And I most highly recommend it!
Bethany is a dear friend of mine, and I had the honor of beta reading this wonderful story as she was writing it, however the above thoughts are my honest and uninfluenced opinion!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher, but I also purchased my own audiobook copy!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
July 25, 2025
4.5⭐️ rounded up
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the audiobook copy in exchange for a review.
I think this book on audio is great! It has 2 narrators and they both did a great job with the story. I noticed many of the lower star reviews mention the writing style, but I think some of those issues disappear on audio because I had no issues with the style while listening. I also think this would be a cute Hallmark style movie 🎥.
Wes left Addie at the altar 20 years ago and they’ve never spoken since. Now Wes and Addie are both widowed and find themselves in their hometown at the same time. Oh, and Wes is running for president. 🇺🇸The two begin to form a friendship and unpack their feelings about the past and what has happened in their lives in the last twenty years. Naturally, some of those old feelings start to come back💘. But how do they manage all this, and the tough parts of their pasts, in the midst of a presidential campaign?
This is a second chance romance with emotion, heart, and just enough drama that kept me interested. I flew through this in a weekend. I really enjoyed it on audio and recommend this audiobook to fellow second-chance romance fans who are looking for an escape from reality.
While the book does mention a presidential campaign, the CIA, and the Senate; it never gets political. The author did a great job telling this story in an apolitical way.
This romance is *clean.*
Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the audiobook copy in exchange for a review.
I think this book on audio is great! It has 2 narrators and they both did a great job with the story. I noticed many of the lower star reviews mention the writing style, but I think some of those issues disappear on audio because I had no issues with the style while listening. I also think this would be a cute Hallmark style movie 🎥.
Wes left Addie at the altar 20 years ago and they’ve never spoken since. Now Wes and Addie are both widowed and find themselves in their hometown at the same time. Oh, and Wes is running for president. 🇺🇸The two begin to form a friendship and unpack their feelings about the past and what has happened in their lives in the last twenty years. Naturally, some of those old feelings start to come back💘. But how do they manage all this, and the tough parts of their pasts, in the midst of a presidential campaign?
This is a second chance romance with emotion, heart, and just enough drama that kept me interested. I flew through this in a weekend. I really enjoyed it on audio and recommend this audiobook to fellow second-chance romance fans who are looking for an escape from reality.
While the book does mention a presidential campaign, the CIA, and the Senate; it never gets political. The author did a great job telling this story in an apolitical way.
This romance is *clean.*
July 6, 2025
TY to Thomas Nelson and Harper Audio for the gifted copies. 4.5 stars, rounded up.
Wes and Addie Had Their Chance is book three in the Adelaide Springs series, and no, I don’t recommend jumping in here. At the very least, read Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other first. A lot of the lower Goodreads ratings come from readers who didn’t realize it’s a series. You can follow the plot without the earlier books, but you’ll miss the emotional depth and the richness of the small-town dynamics that make this story so rewarding.
Now, onto the book itself — it’s my favorite of the series. This is a second-chance romance between high school sweethearts, now in their 40s, who’ve both been married and widowed. It’s a more emotional read than the first two in the series, with one of the most authentic portrayals of love after loss I’ve ever seen. Wes and Addie’s journey is tender, bittersweet, and honestly heartbreaking at times, but Bethany stitches my heart back together by the end. There are also some LOL moments that keep the emotional weight from feeling overwhelming.
The only thing I didn’t 100% love about this book was the ending. It felt a little rushed and not fully true to the characters. It’s not a dealbreaker, just a missed opportunity to stick the landing on what was otherwise a near-perfect (to me) book.
Audio: I split my time between the audiobook and my print copy. The dual POV narration is great — Patrick Zeller as Wes truly PERFORMS his chapters with so much emotion. At times, his intensity feels slightly out of sync with Addie’s narrator, Talon Davis, whose performance is solid but more subdued. Still a great listen overall!
Wes and Addie Had Their Chance is book three in the Adelaide Springs series, and no, I don’t recommend jumping in here. At the very least, read Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other first. A lot of the lower Goodreads ratings come from readers who didn’t realize it’s a series. You can follow the plot without the earlier books, but you’ll miss the emotional depth and the richness of the small-town dynamics that make this story so rewarding.
Now, onto the book itself — it’s my favorite of the series. This is a second-chance romance between high school sweethearts, now in their 40s, who’ve both been married and widowed. It’s a more emotional read than the first two in the series, with one of the most authentic portrayals of love after loss I’ve ever seen. Wes and Addie’s journey is tender, bittersweet, and honestly heartbreaking at times, but Bethany stitches my heart back together by the end. There are also some LOL moments that keep the emotional weight from feeling overwhelming.
The only thing I didn’t 100% love about this book was the ending. It felt a little rushed and not fully true to the characters. It’s not a dealbreaker, just a missed opportunity to stick the landing on what was otherwise a near-perfect (to me) book.
Audio: I split my time between the audiobook and my print copy. The dual POV narration is great — Patrick Zeller as Wes truly PERFORMS his chapters with so much emotion. At times, his intensity feels slightly out of sync with Addie’s narrator, Talon Davis, whose performance is solid but more subdued. Still a great listen overall!
October 6, 2025
Enjoyed this whole series
January 29, 2025
✨️ ARC REVIEW ✨️
Wes And Addie Had Their Chance by Bethany Turner
Publication date: 15th July 2025
This was a beautiful second chance romance read, following Addie who was left at the altar two decades ago by her childhood friend Wes, now that they've both had their fair share of " life" happen to them can Addie's decision to returning to Adelaide Springs rekindle what they once had? What I loved about this book was that even though parts of the book felt a bit jumpy, the communication between the two of them was like actual adults this for me made the storyline much more enjoyable (miscommunication trope in books personally is a hit or miss for me)
This is my first read for the author definitely will come back to her, on that note I wasn't aware this was a series (they can be read as standalones as each book follows different characters )
Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for the arc
Wes And Addie Had Their Chance by Bethany Turner
Publication date: 15th July 2025
This was a beautiful second chance romance read, following Addie who was left at the altar two decades ago by her childhood friend Wes, now that they've both had their fair share of " life" happen to them can Addie's decision to returning to Adelaide Springs rekindle what they once had? What I loved about this book was that even though parts of the book felt a bit jumpy, the communication between the two of them was like actual adults this for me made the storyline much more enjoyable (miscommunication trope in books personally is a hit or miss for me)
This is my first read for the author definitely will come back to her, on that note I wasn't aware this was a series (they can be read as standalones as each book follows different characters )
Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for the arc
September 9, 2025
Addie’s whole life fell apart and she had to move back to her childhood home, Adelaide Springs.She is trying to pick up the pieces and move on with her life. She gets reunited with some of her old friends, but then she comes eye to eye with Wes, her ex fiance who left her at the altar. They keep seeing each other in town and meet up to talk about the past. Wes and Addie had their chance but will they give it another chance after 20 years?
This is the third book in the Adelaide Spring Love Stories. I loved how the characters from the other books also appeared in this book.
I really enjoyed this book but I think it would be better suited for an older audience. At some times it was hard for me to relate to the characters because they were older than me. Besides that the love story was really great and I loved how they grew back together after their problems in the past.
I listened to this book as an audiobook and the production was really great. The narrators were great and I liked how the author also narrated little parts of the book.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
⭐️: 3,2
🌶: no spice
This is the third book in the Adelaide Spring Love Stories. I loved how the characters from the other books also appeared in this book.
I really enjoyed this book but I think it would be better suited for an older audience. At some times it was hard for me to relate to the characters because they were older than me. Besides that the love story was really great and I loved how they grew back together after their problems in the past.
I listened to this book as an audiobook and the production was really great. The narrators were great and I liked how the author also narrated little parts of the book.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
⭐️: 3,2
🌶: no spice
July 18, 2025
The MMC’s late wife was a lesbian. He married her knowing this to benefit both their careers. For a Christian book I would expect the author to stick to Biblical truths. Instead the author made it seem like the late wife being a lesbian was no big deal. She made the town seem small minded because they wouldn’t have accepted her. There was no mention of the wife needing to repent or about homosexuality being a sin. Disappointed.
*I was sent a complimentary copy with no expectations for a favorable review.
*I was sent a complimentary copy with no expectations for a favorable review.
July 19, 2025
4.5 stars
────୨ৎ────
Thank you so much for the ARC!
I really enjoyed the story. The plot was engaging, and the characters were so well-developed. Even the side characters had their own unique charm.
The writing was beautiful. Both Wes and Addie had such rich, emotional journeys, not just together, but individually as well. Their relationships with grief were so honest which definitely made me tear up.
I was especially touched by Wes’ understanding of Addie’s love for Joe. The fact that he never wished for their past to be different, if it meant she wouldn’t have met Joe, was so tender. He only wished she didn’t have to carry that sadness of their previous heartbreak.
And even after all the time and change, Wes still loved Addie. He respected that she fell in love with someone else after healing from their breakup, and when they found their way back to each other, he wanted to start clean, knowing they’d both grown into different people. I loved that they took the time to get to know each other again and didn’t just throw themselves into a relationship because they knew each other when they were teenagers. I felt like all this made their reconnection feel real and earned.
The narration by both voice actors was incredible. Their performances brought out all the emotions.
The only thing that threw me off a little was the POV shift….Addie’s chapters were in first person while Wes’ were in third. It felt a little ugh at times, but it didn’t take away from how much I loved the book.
Second-chance romances are definitely growing on me and I definitely recommend this book!
────୨ৎ────
Thank you so much for the ARC!
I really enjoyed the story. The plot was engaging, and the characters were so well-developed. Even the side characters had their own unique charm.
The writing was beautiful. Both Wes and Addie had such rich, emotional journeys, not just together, but individually as well. Their relationships with grief were so honest which definitely made me tear up.
I was especially touched by Wes’ understanding of Addie’s love for Joe. The fact that he never wished for their past to be different, if it meant she wouldn’t have met Joe, was so tender. He only wished she didn’t have to carry that sadness of their previous heartbreak.
And even after all the time and change, Wes still loved Addie. He respected that she fell in love with someone else after healing from their breakup, and when they found their way back to each other, he wanted to start clean, knowing they’d both grown into different people. I loved that they took the time to get to know each other again and didn’t just throw themselves into a relationship because they knew each other when they were teenagers. I felt like all this made their reconnection feel real and earned.
The narration by both voice actors was incredible. Their performances brought out all the emotions.
The only thing that threw me off a little was the POV shift….Addie’s chapters were in first person while Wes’ were in third. It felt a little ugh at times, but it didn’t take away from how much I loved the book.
Second-chance romances are definitely growing on me and I definitely recommend this book!
March 15, 2025
What is this, the book of Job?!
So, here’s the thing - I don’t think many people pick up books of this style title with a kitschy little cover of happy cartoon friends to lovers to be pummeled by little tidbits of trauma in the first 10%. Spoiler: but like, everybody died. Addie’s mom died (sad), Addie’s fiance died (poor girl), Wes’ fiancé died (omg!!), Wes’ mom died (WTH!!), Wes’ dad died… I’m afraid to keep going, who else is going to die?! What kind of diseased town are we in here?! Did I inadvertently pick up the wrong book (checks cover)? Goodness!
I really enjoyed ONE book by this author and I keep hoping for another really good one I love but dang it I need to let go. She rambles - lots and lots of internal monologue and thought that makes me zone out and dream of other books. Just.so.monotonous.
BUT, I couldn’t bring myself to DNF it. It had enough feels to make me want to go through the story and find out what led to where Wes and Addie were. And I did enjoy the general story and the chemistry between them and the intel on their fancy careers was fun. So, in the end I didn’t hate it as much as I started out thinking I would, but sadly I wouldn’t recommend it.
This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
TW:
LGBTQ
Cancer
Spouse and parent death
Alcoholism/sobriety
No 🌶️ just 😘
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
So, here’s the thing - I don’t think many people pick up books of this style title with a kitschy little cover of happy cartoon friends to lovers to be pummeled by little tidbits of trauma in the first 10%. Spoiler: but like, everybody died. Addie’s mom died (sad), Addie’s fiance died (poor girl), Wes’ fiancé died (omg!!), Wes’ mom died (WTH!!), Wes’ dad died… I’m afraid to keep going, who else is going to die?! What kind of diseased town are we in here?! Did I inadvertently pick up the wrong book (checks cover)? Goodness!
I really enjoyed ONE book by this author and I keep hoping for another really good one I love but dang it I need to let go. She rambles - lots and lots of internal monologue and thought that makes me zone out and dream of other books. Just.so.monotonous.
BUT, I couldn’t bring myself to DNF it. It had enough feels to make me want to go through the story and find out what led to where Wes and Addie were. And I did enjoy the general story and the chemistry between them and the intel on their fancy careers was fun. So, in the end I didn’t hate it as much as I started out thinking I would, but sadly I wouldn’t recommend it.
This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
TW:
LGBTQ
Cancer
Spouse and parent death
Alcoholism/sobriety
No 🌶️ just 😘
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2025
I feel so conflicted about this one. On one hand, I absolutely loved the narrators here. I thought they did a good job bringing the characters to life, particularly Patrick Zeller who narrated the MMC. I also really enjoy a story with adult characters, because these characters had full lives, careers, and a backstory. They also had both done a lot of introspection, so weren't in that 20-something haze of bad decisions that somehow just work out into finding the absolute love of your life. It is also always nice to read characters closer to my own age. I enjoyed the jokes, and I thought the writing was good and the story flowed easily. I read and listened to this in an afternoon.
On the other hand, this story and it's plot (18 year old's try to get married, MMC leaves FMC at the altar, both get remarried and both become widowed, one is trying to become the president and the other is ex-CIA recovering alcoholic, fall back in love in a 3 day whirlwind trip) is just... a lot. It was very hard for me to suspend disbelief that these characters would ever get back together. I also did not like the nods to Christianity, and I didn't realize this would have religious undertones.
I would definitely try stories by Bethany Turner again. This had a lot to like and a lot I didn't mesh with. 3 stars.
On the other hand, this story and it's plot (18 year old's try to get married, MMC leaves FMC at the altar, both get remarried and both become widowed, one is trying to become the president and the other is ex-CIA recovering alcoholic, fall back in love in a 3 day whirlwind trip) is just... a lot. It was very hard for me to suspend disbelief that these characters would ever get back together. I also did not like the nods to Christianity, and I didn't realize this would have religious undertones.
I would definitely try stories by Bethany Turner again. This had a lot to like and a lot I didn't mesh with. 3 stars.
July 5, 2025
I need to start by saying that my review is based on my enjoyment, or lack thereof, and not on the plot or writing skills of the author. I checked to see if this was a part of a series before I requested it and before I started reading it. It wasn’t listed as being a part of a series on Goodreads, but I highly suspect I would have enjoyed it a lot more if I had read (and enjoyed) Brynn and Sebastian and Cole and Laila’s stories.
This felt unnecessarily political and shallow to me. I was excited about the CIA angle to the story but it fell flat. It barely existed. This has nothing to do with fictional CIA spies. It’s about a sad widow who faced a terrible situation in her youth and a perfect Ken-replica widower that caused said terrible situation.
Does she forgive him? Obviously. Do they get back together? Duhhh. All things I knew going in. Did I enjoy the ride? No. I did not.
It felt empty. Too easy. Not enough tension. He was too perfect and annoying and kind of stupid. She was really annoying and contrary. I felt badly for her, a little. She’s fictional after all; but, she was also the worst decision maker on the planet. She was constantly “analyzing” or pretending to be. It felt pretentious. I didn’t like her. I wasn’t rooting for her or him and the side characters meant nothing to me because I hadn’t read their stories.
This didn’t work for me. But, if you’ve read previous novels maybe it would work for you.
This felt unnecessarily political and shallow to me. I was excited about the CIA angle to the story but it fell flat. It barely existed. This has nothing to do with fictional CIA spies. It’s about a sad widow who faced a terrible situation in her youth and a perfect Ken-replica widower that caused said terrible situation.
Does she forgive him? Obviously. Do they get back together? Duhhh. All things I knew going in. Did I enjoy the ride? No. I did not.
It felt empty. Too easy. Not enough tension. He was too perfect and annoying and kind of stupid. She was really annoying and contrary. I felt badly for her, a little. She’s fictional after all; but, she was also the worst decision maker on the planet. She was constantly “analyzing” or pretending to be. It felt pretentious. I didn’t like her. I wasn’t rooting for her or him and the side characters meant nothing to me because I hadn’t read their stories.
This didn’t work for me. But, if you’ve read previous novels maybe it would work for you.
August 18, 2025
3.5 stars - Super quick rom com set in a small mountain town, similar to the area where I live. Wes is a politician, Addie is former military and CIA (badass!!) but the focus is more on their second chance. I enjoyed learning their history and seeing the way they came back together. This was book 3 in a series - I never like reading out of order but it can also be a standalone. Excited to meet the author at bookclub this week!
July 22, 2025
3.25 stars
Completed: July 18/25
Series: Adelaide Springs Love Stories, #3 (& works as a standalone)
Format: 1st half - e-ARC, 2nd half - audio ARC
Narrators: Talon David. Patrick Zeller, Bethany Turner (author’s note)
Challenge Prompt: EOW’s “cold weather setting” — ANYTIME OPTION — Colorado winter in the mountains
Book #85 of 2025: [The regular narration and main character voices are really good. I didn’t care for some of the main character voices, especially the male narration for Laila.]
This is the third and last book in the Adelaide Springs Love Stories clean fiction series. Each can easily be read as a standalone. There are many funny and light-hearted moments, a caring community, and unique friendships.
As with the first two, I found myself enjoying the second half but not the first. I’m not into the pop-culture aspect and I didn’t find Wes’s first marriage believable, ethical, or appropriate. Therefore, my review is in the middle at 3.25 stars. I really enjoyed the standalone books (that came before this series) a lot more.
*** I’d like to thank Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for an advanced copy of the e-book and the audio. My honest review is in my own words.
Completed: July 18/25
Series: Adelaide Springs Love Stories, #3 (& works as a standalone)
Format: 1st half - e-ARC, 2nd half - audio ARC
Narrators: Talon David. Patrick Zeller, Bethany Turner (author’s note)
Challenge Prompt: EOW’s “cold weather setting” — ANYTIME OPTION — Colorado winter in the mountains
Book #85 of 2025: [The regular narration and main character voices are really good. I didn’t care for some of the main character voices, especially the male narration for Laila.]
This is the third and last book in the Adelaide Springs Love Stories clean fiction series. Each can easily be read as a standalone. There are many funny and light-hearted moments, a caring community, and unique friendships.
As with the first two, I found myself enjoying the second half but not the first. I’m not into the pop-culture aspect and I didn’t find Wes’s first marriage believable, ethical, or appropriate. Therefore, my review is in the middle at 3.25 stars. I really enjoyed the standalone books (that came before this series) a lot more.
*** I’d like to thank Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for an advanced copy of the e-book and the audio. My honest review is in my own words.
July 30, 2025
Blah, terrible. Wouldn’t have finished if it hadn’t been a book club book.
dnf
September 3, 2025DNF at 40%. I don't know why, but this just wasn't hitting with me. It is a book example of "It's not you, it's me." I liked the characters, but didn't feel like I was connecting with them. Addie seemed to have emotionally moved on from Wes pretty thoroughly (which I love), but didn't leave me with much urgency to see them get back together.
It sucks too because this was a genuine "left at the altar" story, where the bride later ends up with the groom, which can be hard to find.
It sucks too because this was a genuine "left at the altar" story, where the bride later ends up with the groom, which can be hard to find.
May 4, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this earc.
Ugh. It’s very hard for me to explain how I feel about this book but I’ll try
Let’s start that I really loved the other two books in the books so I was excited for this one.
And I was definitely not what I expected.
First I’ll tell you what I did enjoy.
- Another romance book with main characters in their 40th
- Some very adult decisions and conversations (especially from Addie.)
- Found family.
Now the things that I’m super conflicted about.
- I wanted Wes to actually go and become president and come back in 4 years. I felt like when Addie said that she did have a great marriage and she didn’t love him after all this time and they did need time to get to know other again, I wanted them to do that while Wes being a president. I mean the guys worked his whole life for (including leaving in the first place). Just feel like with him backing out, it was all for nothing.
- The kissing scene. I felt like was it completely out of place. They saw each for two days after two decades, finally sat down to talk and it was great. And then Addie just jumped him? Just felt very off.
- Also, all the dead people. I understand that both of them had a life but having both their spouses die and both in very difficult circumstances was a bit too much.
So yeah. I felt like with the speed the plot was moving, the ending was very rushed. Especially the second proposal.
Ugh. It’s very hard for me to explain how I feel about this book but I’ll try
Let’s start that I really loved the other two books in the books so I was excited for this one.
And I was definitely not what I expected.
First I’ll tell you what I did enjoy.
- Another romance book with main characters in their 40th
- Some very adult decisions and conversations (especially from Addie.)
- Found family.
Now the things that I’m super conflicted about.
- I wanted Wes to actually go and become president and come back in 4 years. I felt like when Addie said that she did have a great marriage and she didn’t love him after all this time and they did need time to get to know other again, I wanted them to do that while Wes being a president. I mean the guys worked his whole life for (including leaving in the first place). Just feel like with him backing out, it was all for nothing.
- The kissing scene. I felt like was it completely out of place. They saw each for two days after two decades, finally sat down to talk and it was great. And then Addie just jumped him? Just felt very off.
- Also, all the dead people. I understand that both of them had a life but having both their spouses die and both in very difficult circumstances was a bit too much.
So yeah. I felt like with the speed the plot was moving, the ending was very rushed. Especially the second proposal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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